Lakehead University Celebrates 50 Years of Success!
INSIDE Thunder Bay Celebrates Rich Mining Heritage Contaminated Sites: Buyers Beware? How Should You Hit the Pavement? 2015 Staal Open Presented by Tbaytel Bigger & Better!
Improving Cardiovascular Services For Patients in Northwestern Ontario
Northern Ontario Large Urban Mayors (NOLUM)
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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS AUGUST 2015
Thunder Bay Celebrates Rich Mining Heritage BY SCOTT A. SUMNER
Thunder Bay BUSINESS Thunder Bay celebrated its rich mining heritage recently, which had been declared Mining Day by Mayor Keith Hobbs. Mayor Hobbs made the declaration at a ceremony at Mariner’s Hall at Prince Arthur’s Landing. He was joined by representatives of the City of Thunder Bay, Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC), Ministry of Northern Development and Mines, and Northwestern Ontario Prospectors Association, as well as other mining organizations. “The mining and exploration industry employees are working quietly in Thunder
Bay and Northwestern Ontario; they should be recognized for their significant contribution to the local economy and the culture of their communities,” said Mayor Hobbs in reading the declaration. “Mining Day is a celebration where the mining community and the public meet and have fun at Prince Arthur’s Landing, a historical site in a city with a long history of mining.” Mining Day included a series of special public events at Prince Arthur’s Landing. There were more than 25 exhibitors with fun, creative and interactive displays and presentations to encourage everyone in the family to participate and learn about mining, minerals and local geology. Heavy mining equipment suppliers, diamond drillers and helicopter service providers will also be onsite to showcase their big tools of the trade.
A guided walking tour took place along Red River Road, providing a look at how local stone has been used in the construction of some of Thunder Bay’s most iconic buildings, including Port Arthur Collegiate Institute (PACI-Lakehead U), Trinity United Church, Masonic Hall and others. "The mining community and many volunteers are coming together to bring the third annual Thunder Bay Mining Day to the citizens of the City and nearby municipalities,” said Robert Chataway, President of NWOPA and Chair of the Mining Day Committee. “As a family-oriented event, we hope everyone has a good time while participating in mining-related activities such as gold panning, searching for buried treasure and looking at gold and other minerals. "
for the kids in a learning environment. We are well represented by the mining companies. We want the kids to be able to see mining equipment and activities, rocks and
This event benefits from the support of a number of local organizations, including Northwestern Ontario Prospectors Association, Women in Mining, Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC) and the Canadian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. “The event is an opportunity to showcase the mineral sector which is an important contributor to Northwestern Ontario’s economy,” said John Mason, Project Manager, Mining Services for CEDC. “Children and adults alike will have fun with interactive displays and hands on activities on the waterfront!” For more information on Mining Day in Thunder Bay, contact: tbminingday@gmail.com, visit the website http://www.thunderbayminingday.ca or like us on Facebook.
how they are used in products.” “ Mining is a big part of the economy and in the small communities that really helps them out. Right now we are in a bit of a lull and it is hurting the economy of the small towns up north. Thunder Bay is used sometimes as a bedroom community for these mines.” “ To prospect it can take 10 years once a mine is found and you are spending tens of millions of dollars in exploration before you say yes to a mine. Then it will take another $500 to $600 million to get it into production. That is all private money, not government money. Not every prospect turns into a mine. There are several new mines in NW Ontario, say near Fort Frances coming on stream that were originally found in the 80’s. The world economy has made it more difficult to look for mines. There is a nice big find just down in the US in the iron range that has similar geology as up here. We are about three years into the lull and we should be starting to climb out.”
Bob Chataway, President , NWOPA “ This is our 3rd Mining Day and we are learning along the way. The emphasis is on the kids and having fun interactive activities
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Publisher’s Note Scott Sumner
Improving Cardiovascular Services For Patients in Northwestern Ontario this cardiac plan and it will take some time to develop. We have pushed the go button today on the vascular side and it will be rapid. The cardiac will follow shortly as well. I’m a bold kind of person that likes to do things in a well thought out manner. This is an natural extension of the other quality of services here. I grew up in a small town and I get it. It is about access and fairness. There is no question for me that providing these services in Thunder Bay will help patient outcomes.”
Province Supporting Proposed Cardiovascular Program in Thunder Bay Ontario is supporting a proposal to improve access to cardiovascular services for patients in northwestern Ontario. Under the proposal, the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) will expand its advanced cardiovascular services program to deliver onsite vascular surgery. It will also work with the government to develop a plan to deliver cardiac surgery closer to home for patients in the northwest. TBRHSC will work in partnership with the University Health Network (UHN), which will take on cardiovascular patients from northwestern Ontario who are currently being served in Hamilton until services are fully implemented at TBRHSC. Providing the residents of northwestern Ontario with better access to cardiovascular services is part of the government’s plan to build a better Ontario through its Patients First: Action Plan for Health Care, which is providing patients with faster access to the right care, better home and community care, the information they need to live healthy and a health care system that’s sustainable for generations to come. QUOTES “This announcement marks an exciting landmark in improving access to cardiovascular surgery for the people of northwestern Ontario. I look forward to continuing to work together with all of our regional health care partners to ensure the highest quality of care closer to home.” — Dr. Eric Hoskins, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care “The establishment of angioplasty services at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre years ago remains one of my proudest moments as an MPP. Today’s announcement, which builds on that work, of our support for vascular surgery services
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Bill Mauro MPP, Thunder Bay-Atikokan
followed by the full introduction of cardiac surgery, represents the continuing evolution of health care in Thunder Bay and northwestern Ontario. I want to thank everyone for their work and support of this spectacular announcement.” — Bill Mauro, MPP, Thunder BayAtikokan “The addition of cardiovascular surgery at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre will be a very significant addition to the health care system here in northwestern Ontario. These new services will also be a great asset in our efforts to attract and retain physicians in the North.” — Michael Gravelle, MPP, Thunder BaySuperior North "This is a huge step forward for TBRHSC. Our partnership with UHN brings worldclass cardiovascular care to northwestern Ontario and will have a dramatic effect on the quality of care and quality of life for thousands of cardiovascular patients in our region in the coming years." — Dr. Bill McCready, Interim CEO, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre "The goal of this partnership is to give patients in Thunder Bay local access to heart and blood vessel surgery. No one should have to travel 1,000 km and be separated from their family to undergo standard bypass surgery. The one program on two sites model that we will implement will ensure that the quality of care delivered in Thunder Bay and at the Peter Munk Cardiac Centre at UHN is the same. Quality, safety and local access to care will
be the cornerstones of this partnership." — Dr. Barry Rubin, Program Medical Director, Peter Munk Cardiac Centre.
QUICK FACTS Approximately 350 patients a year are referred out of the northwestern region for vascular surgery and vascular related procedures. Dr. Eric Hoskins, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care “ We anticipate a significant capital requirement for cardiac surgery and are working with the local health network LIN on this. The University Health Network felt the local families deserve this care at home. This is an incredible Hospital here in Thunder Bay with excellent clinicians.” “We are working on the plan and timing of
“The vascular surgery program has started and our commitment today was to an expansion of that program. The cardiac surgery is going to happen. There is some capital work that needs to be done and that work is already underway.We will be providing services in Thunder Bay that are currently being provided in other parts the province. You will see a significant saving on the health travel grant program.” Michael Gravelle, Michael Gravelle, MPP, Thunder Bay-Superior North “I am excited to have the Ministers commitment. Today is one of those days as a MPP where you are making a difference in better health care for NW Ontario. The commitment for a cardiac surgery program is real. It is rock solid and there is some more work to be done. Angioplasty has been very successful and this is an extension of that. This is great day for us.”
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Northern Ontario Large Urban Mayors (NOLUM) tion. Over 50% of the ore extracted in Ontario goes through our community and it takes a toll on our roads. We have just had the coldest February in history.” “ Our economy is growing slowly. Our new council is focused on economic development. We need to invest in our downtown urban core. The population of Sudbury is 160,000 and GDP is $5.5 billion with mining at $4 billion or over 60 % of of GDP.” “ Thunder Bay continues to grow with lots of new investment here like the new hotel we are in today. This year our council held municipal taxes to a 0 % increase. Previously I was auditor General for the City of Sudbury.”
BY SCOTT A. SUMNER
Thunder Bay BUSINESS The City of Thunder Bay hosted the members of NOLUM for a series of meetings on Friday, July 3 and Saturday July 4. Agenda topics included Building Ontario Up: Municipal Infrastructure, mining readiness, and climate adaptation. I sat down with each Mayor to ask about their communities, their plans moving forward and impressions of Thunder Bay.
Mayor Al McDonald, North Bay “ The dominant conversation today is around infrastructure and the provinces plan to invest record number of dollars and how that is shared. The municipalities need sustainable infrastructure money each and every year. It should not be based on an application, or begging process if you will, but based on per capita. In North Bay it would go into critical capital work or economic development work that we currently have on the books but have no way of funding.” “ North Bay has a population of 55,000 and the region with 20 minutes is 85,000. We are 3 hours from Toronto all with 4 lane highway.” “ Thunder Bay is a beautiful community, very progressive. The citizens are very friendly and I am totally impressed. I will get a chance to see your marina today. We invested $30 million in North Bay and I understand you have invested over $100 million in your marina. This is a beautiful part of the country.”
Mayor Steve Black, Timmins “ Our major priority is our road infrastructure and our connecting link through the community which is a $50 to $70 million project. We are also looking at a multiuse recreation centre as well, starting with an aquatic complex and then economic development to improve rail lines and infrastructure to access some of the mineral developments in our region.” “Thunder Bay is a very impressive community and the Mayor has done a great job hosting us and providing feedback on what is going on here.” “ We are a population of 45,000 and just under 3000 square kilometers in area. Mining is our main contributor and forestry is second.We are a 8 hour drive from Toronto or 1 1/2 flight.” Steve is 33 years old and the youngest mayor in Timmins history.
Mayor Christian Provenzano, Sault Ste. Marie “ In Sault Ste Marie we want to bring our critical infrastructure up to date. Our electrical system need a lot of work. The basics of water, electricity and roads- we have to make sure we are doing a good job in those areas. We are also interested in developing some critical transportation links which is a economic development project. We are working on the Port of Algoma and becoming a key regional structure.” “ Our economy is decent and we should expect some growth this year. The Essor Centre is a nice asset in S S Marie. We have a river that runs right through us and are near parks.” “ I have enjoyed my time in Thunder Bay and your roads are in pretty good shape here.” Mayor Brian Bigger, Sudbury “ We have a number of projects in Sudbury. We are working on improvements to our east west corridor transporta-
Mayor Keith Hobbs, Thunder Bay “ We try to rotate these meetings amongst cities so it was Thunder Bay’s turn this year. It is nice to have the 5 large major city Mayors here and talking about our issues which are similar. We have a very diverse agenda including MPAC and the climate. It is good to share strategies. We hope to put out a few position papers on mining readiness and other issues.” “ The infrastructure fund recently announced is good and we want a piece of that pie. We are a very strong voice when we go together. In Thunder Bay we look after our infrastructure for the most part with an enhanced infrastructure program of $12 million year over year extra. We want funding for those major projects like the event centre and a new conservatory- that are huge projects. We will prioritize those projects for the next 10 years as a council.”
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Ontario Investing up to $11.3 Million to Expand and Modernize Atikokan General Hospital Construction Begins to Improve Access to Health Care in Atikokan
on average, with projects such as roads, bridges, transit systems, schools and hospitals across the province.
Ontario is investing up to $11.3 million to build a new addition at the Atikokan General Hospital and renovate existing space to give patients better access to care.
Investing in priority infrastructure, including hospitals, is part of the government's plan to build Ontario up. The four-part plan includes investing in people's talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history, creating a dynamic, innovative environment where business thrives, and building a secure retirement savings plan.
Through this project, patients in the Atikokan community will benefit from: § A modern facility that delivers better coordinated and integrated acute and longterm care § Four new acute care beds, bringing the total to 15 beds § Four new long-term care beds, bringing the total to 26 beds. Construction is expected to be complete in winter 2017. Ontario is making the largest infrastructure investment in Ontario’s history — more than $130 billion over 10 years, which will support more than 110,000 jobs per year
QUOTES “Today’s event marks the start of construction to renovate and expand the Atikokan General Hospital. Through this project, patients in Atikokan and the surrounding community will have better access to hospital services closer to home and in the community.” - Dr. Eric Hoskins, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care
“Our government’s investment of up to $11.3 million into the Atikokan General Hospital means a more modern facility that will deliver better coordinated and integrated acute and long-term care. These upgrades will continue to improve access to health care for the people of Atikokan. I’m proud of our government’s record of continued investment into small, rural and northern hospitals.” — Bill Mauro, MPP, Thunder BayAtikokan
“We are very excited to begin work on this important project for the community of Atikokan. The results of this project will allow us to provide increased quality care to our patients and residents.” — Doug Moynihan, CEO, Atikokan General Hospital
square feet of the existing facility will be renovated and about 8,900 square feet will be added as part of the addition. § Modernizing public infrastructure will support more than 110,000 jobs a year on average in construction and related industries. § A Conference Board of Canada report estimated that Ontario’s public infrastructure investment would add more than $1,000 to the average annual income of Ontarians in 2014 and lower the unemployment rate by about one percentage point. § Ontario’s long-term infrastructure plan will help connect regions, develop new economic opportunities and improve quality of life for Ontarians by supporting critical infrastructure projects in cities, towns, and rural and remote communities all across the province.
QUICK FACTS § Through this project, about 6,200
Alvin Fiddler Announces Run for Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Recently, surrounded by family, friends and supporters in his home community of Muskrat Dam First Nation, leader and advocate, Alvin Fiddler, announced his bid for Grand Chief in the 2015 Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Election. Fiddler, who has over 20 years of leadership experience, serving as NAN Deputy Grand Chief for several terms, explains that he is ready to take his role to a larger platform. “It has been a privilege to serve NAN over the years and I would like to follow the wishes of the people. I am honoured to accept the nomination of Grand Chief.” Raised in Muskrat Dam First Nation and attending High School in Sioux Lookout and Thunder Bay, Ontario, Fiddler has lived many of the issues NAN communities face. His campaign for Grand Chief centers on renewing a sense of collaboration between leadership within NAN territory. “One of my goals is to connect NAN back to the communities while assisting our Chiefs to
achieve their visions and goals. To get to that point we need to genuinely recognize the direction and experience that our Chiefs bring to the table, and determine how NAN as an organization can best support them to bring this to a reality;” says Fiddler. “As a Nation we need to take an approach together that focuses on the land and our children, and the bond between how we can look after both.” Fiddler emphasizes that he will continue to work to ensure that treaties are the basis of the relationship between First Nations and the Crown. "This will put our communities on a path to achieve a better outcome for our children and our grand children. Making treaty relationships work for all of us is a key challenge for the future."
As Deputy Grand Chief, Fiddler has made significant and lasting change throughout his portfolio areas which included Health Policy & Planning, Community Healing & Wellness, Women & Youth Development, and Justice. He is best known for his major contributions to pivotal First Nation inquests, including Ipperwash, Goudge (pediatric forensics), and Goodwin & Wesley (Keshechwan fire), and had a leading role in the advocacy that led to the Iacobucci Review. Most recently, Fiddler led the charge to convene the inquest into the tragedies of the seven NAN youth who died while attending high school in Thunder Bay. Fiddler has also been recognized nationally for his work with the Auditor General of Canada, which led to reports on the current state of health service delivery in First Nation communities, as well as the deplorable conditions for First Nation police services in Canada. Further, Fiddler
gained notoriety for being a leader in the call for a National Inquiry into Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls. Throughout his political career, Fiddler has always prioritized his relationships with communities and keeping a close connection with the people and leadership of NAN. Fiddler can often be found visiting communities to attend ceremonies and events, and listening to the people to better understand their needs and incorporate their voices into his work. “I am constantly in awe by the passion, spirit, and commitment to a better life exhibited by the citizens of NAN. I am also often reminded by our Elders that we need to be ‘courageously innovative’ in the work that we do, and I try to live this teaching every day. We need to be brave and take risks, and together we will make steps toward a healthier, safer, and more prosperous Nation.” Election Day is slated for August 12th, 2015.
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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS AUGUST 2015
Lakehead University Celebrates 50 Years of Success! BY SCOTT A. SUMNER
Thunder Bay BUSINESS I sat down recently with Dr. Brian Stevenson, President Lakehead University to talk about a wide range of topics including their 50th Anniversary. When was Lakehead University formed? “ We received royal assent on July 1, 1965 the official date when LAKEHEAD UNIVERSITY started but we had our first graduation in the spring of 1965 before the act came in effect. It has been 50 years since the act this July 1st 2015.” “ In 1946 there was the establishment of the Lakehead Technical Institute, then in 1957 we became the Lakehead College of Arts, Science and Technology and in 1965 the University. That was a fairly typical process then for becoming a university. Some start as a college. What is really interesting for me is because LAKEHEAD
UNIVERSITY started as a technical college- the professional programs we have now such as education engineering, forestry or business had their roots there. If you look at the programs we are a professional school. We have have always been an educational institution but have focused
on getting jobs for our graduates.” Where was the first campus located? “We started in Port Arthur with the technical institute in the downtown area. Bartley and Tamblyn helped create the university. Tamblyn became the first President. We were able to get 32 hectares
of land in Port Arthur in 1965 and started the campus which is our current site. The Braun building was the start. The lake then was a ravine.” Which programs did you offer in the beginning? “ We had arts, science, education and a list of programs at the start. It was an evolution from a technical institute to a college to a university. The changes are organic and evolved. The fundamentals today are the same, they are professional programs that are job oriented.” “ We have grown over 50 years from a small technical college to a fully comprehensive university. There are a handful of programs we don’t have that a big medical doctorate university would have but we have 10 faculties that are the core. “Originally the first graduating class in 1965 was 80 students. Today it will be about 2500 students.” What were some of the milestones along the way for Lakehead University? “ The establishment of the campus here would be the first milestone and the growth of the campus. The engineering program was big and they recently celebrated their 40th anniversary. The health & science area including social work, kinesiology, the evolution of the business school, forestry and, recently the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, the Orillia campus and the creation of the law school. Continued
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Lakehead University Celebrates 50 Years of Success! Continued How does Lakehead University contribute to the local economy? “At Lakehead University we have done an estimate of the economic impact of the
lated and grants have been declining for the past few years. Each year we spend more money on the operation of LAKEHEAD UNIVERSITY so each year we have to shave off expenses here and there.
LAKEHEAD UNIVERSITY in the past 50 years and calculate roughly $6 billion of economic impact. Every year we have $300 to $400 million of economic activity (the salaries of the staff, the building we do here, the money we spend supporting the campus directly plus the 7000 to 8000 students that find a pace to live here, go grocery shopping etc. 42% of those students are from outside Thunder Bay, including Southern Ontario and Northern Ontario. They have a cultural impact as well. There are the international students here, a total of 5 to 6% of the campus or 500 to 600 students.” “ The consolidated overall budget of LAKEHEAD UNIVERSITY is about $165 million with research operation and side budgets. We have a surplus because we did well in our endowments with our scholarships $40 million fund. Last year it did well. The operating budget is balanced each year and we have a structural deficit which means every year we have to cut back because we have to spend more money than we get because our income is controlled and regulated by government. Some of the funds usage is restricted for scholarships or research for example.” “ We do balance our budget each year and can’t run a deficit. It is a very difficult thing when 95% of your budget is regulated by government. Tuition fees are regu-
We still manage to run LAKEHEAD
UNIVERSITY with out affecting the quality of the services.” You employ a lot of people at Lakehead University? “ LAKEHEAD UNIVERSITY has 2000 people working over the two campus. The last I saw we were the second largest employer in Thunder Bay after the hospital. That is quite a responsibility. We are a
big economic driver. We are a stable influence on the economy and are also helping the economy by training people. Our economic development strategy is supporting the private sector, municipalities and First Nations, doing training, research that supports them and trying to diversify the economy through our research.” Continued
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Lakehead University Celebrates 50 Years of Success! Continued How does Lakehead University rank in Canada? “ We are the number two university in Ontario in our category for research and number three in Canada in our size category. We have gone from $4 to $5 million 12 years ago to $23 million this year in research funds. This attracts the faculty and specialized staff. It begins to create possibilities for spin off companies that might be able to develop and support the industry in the region. We are a multi faceted institution and not isolated. We participate, our faculty work with non profit profit aboriginal communities and engage in the community. One of our pillers in our strategic plan is economic development and outreach to the community.” “ “ Since I have arrived I have established
two economic advisory committees that advise me on areas to support economic development.” Tell me a little about your background? “ I am in my fifth year now as President, starting in August 2010, and shortly completing my first term. Previously I was Provost at the U of Winnipeg, Vice Provost at U of Alberta. I was born in Victoria and grew up in Mexico City. I got my PHD at Queens University in International Relations, Masters in Public Policy at U of Victoria as well as my Bachelors there. I worked in government as Senior Policy advisory for two Ministers of Trade and Foreign Affairs. Worked in Washington with the organization of American States, My first job was in Mexico City. I have been renewed for a second term of 5 years.”
How are you enjoying your time in Thunder Bay? “ I love the Canadian Shield and the scenery here. I love the lake and being by
the water. The community here is great. On any given night there is so much going on. What can we expect from Lakehead
University in the upcoming years? “ At LAKEHEAD UNIVERSITY in the short term, say 3 to 5 years from now we have several capital projects we want to finish up. One is to redesign a building here we have got funds from the province to make it a research building. We have a proposal in for a new aboriginal building. We want to finish the renovations in the law school which are pretty much completed. As our international students grow we want to build an international residence and to be able to expand our tele presence in Northwestern Ontario so can put in satellite classrooms with high end technology including at First Nations.” “ The other issue is to find a way to find financial sustainability which is one of my main issues. I want to be able to increase the number of Aboriginal , International and students from GTA Southern Ontario, to grow our graduate programs, grow our research capacity and to be able to reach out to the community to help create an economic environment so that the students that graduate from LAKEHEAD UNIVERSITY can stay in Thunder Bay and NORTHWESTERN Ontario to get jobs or create jobs and be entrepreneurs.”
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SHAD brings amazing youth to Lakehead University Approximately 65 high school students from across Canada are at Lakehead University to participate in SHAD. Sydney Van De Wiel has never been to Thunder Bay. She lives in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, but this summer the 17-year-old will spend a month at Lakehead University. Van De Wiel is one of 65 high school students participating in SHAD. This year’s group is coming from Alberta, Ontario, Manitoba, Quebec, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. “I hope to gain a strong network of passionate and creative youth to support me in future endeavours,” Van De Wiel said. Students will live in Lakehead University’s residence from July 5 to 31. They will attend lectures and participate in workshops given by Lakehead faculty on the
Thunder Bay campus. “SHAD is an exciting experience for students. It brings out the best in young people,” said Dr. Sultan Siddiqui, Mechanical Engineering Professor and Director of SHAD Lakehead. “Centred on science, technology, engineering and math, SHAD empowers exceptional youth to make the world a better place,” said Barry Bisson, SHAD President. “SHAD is where Canada’s top youth achievers are exposed to great ideas, inspired to look at things differently, and challenged to reach for the highest levels of excellence,” Bisson said. “Students are encouraged to embrace their Uncommon Purpose – the pursuit of their own potential to change the world,” he said. Van De Wiel hopes to see the sights that make Thunder Bay a great place to live. “I believe SHAD will help develop my leadership skills as well as my confidence,” she said. The program is for students currently com-
pleting grade 10, 11 or 12, Quebec secondaire IV, V or CEGEP I, or the international equivalent. For more information, please visit www.shad.ca. In 2015, Lakehead University will celebrate 50 years of exceptional education. Guided by its Strategic Plan (2013-2018), Lakehead is known for providing an education focused on independent thinking, unconventional scholarship, and a close sense of community. About 9,700 full-time equivalent students and 2,000 faculty and
staff learn and work in ten faculties at two campuses in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Lakehead University is a fully comprehensive university: home to Ontario’s newest Faculty of Law in 44 years, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and faculties of Engineering, Business Administration, Health & Behavioural Sciences, Social Sciences & Humanities, Science & Environmental Studies, Natural Resources Management, Education, and Graduate Studies.
Maclean’s 2015 University Rankings places Lakehead University 2nd in Ontario and among Canada’s Top 10 undergraduate universities, and 1st among Ontario’s undergraduate universities for Total Research Dollars, Social Sciences & Humanities Grants, and Library Expenses. In 2014, Re$each Infosource ranked Lakehead 2nd in Ontario and 3rd among Canada’s undergraduate universities. Visit www.lakeheadu.ca.
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Lakehead names Thunder Bay Convocation’s 2015 Honorary Degree Recipients and Fellow of the University Lakehead University honoured four remarkable individuals at this year’s Convocation ceremonies being held at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium on May 29 and 30. The University confered honorary doctorate degrees to Margaret Phillips, Michael Rapino and Dr. Dominic Lam, three exceptional people being recognized for their achievements in social justice, entrepreneurship, and health, respectively. “Honorary degree recipients are nominated not only because of the scope of what they have accomplished, but because of how much they have given back to our world, as well,” said Dr. Brian Stevenson, Lakehead President & Vice-Chancellor. Lakehead will also recognize the hard work and dedication of Roy Piovesana, who will be named a Fellow of the University. Piovesana has been a pillar of the Thunder Bay community, a champion of Lakehead University, and a role model and inspiration for generations of students. Lakehead Board of Governors Chair
Murray Walberg said Piovesana’s significant contributions to Thunder Bay and the University are why he is so deserving of this honour. “Roy’s commitment and passion for Lakehead, teaching, and the arts
and history of our region have profoundly benefitted and touched countless people since he graduated from our University 50 years ago,” he said. Dr. Stevenson explained that Convocation is a time to celebrate achievements, and a time to inspire Lakehead’s graduates as they move on to the next phase of their lives. “The stories of our 50th Anniversary year’s honorary degree recipients and
Fellow of the University are examples of our University’s Mission Statement — teaching students how to think, not what to think — and, thus, are the perfect individuals to speak to, and inspire, our graduates.”
Continued
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Lakehead names Thunder Bay Convocation’s 2015 Honorary Degree Recipients and Fellow of the University Continued Margaret Phillips is co-founder of the Northern Woman’s Bookstore and was a member of the Advisory Committee that created the Women’s Studies Program at Lakehead University. Margaret Phillips received an Honorary Doctor of Letters. Michael Rapino is a Lakehead alumnus who became an icon within the music industry. Rapino was named President and Chief Executive Officer of Live Nation Entertainment in 2005 and led its transformation into the number one live music brand in the world, with operations in more than 45 countries and annual revenue exceeding $6.5 billion. Before his career reached such great heights, Rapino studied Business at Lakehead University, earning his Bachelor of Administration in 1989. Since then, he has made significant contributions to the advancement of the world’s music industry through his strong business acumen and willingness to be innovative. Comprised of four market-leading divisions – Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, Live Nation Media & Sponsorship and Artist Nation Management – Live Nation annually issues more than 450 million tickets, promotes 23,000 events, partners with over 750 sponsors, and manages the careers of 280+ artists. Its ecommerce sites average 37 million unique monthly users. Michael Rapino received an Honorary Doctor of Commerce.
Dr. Dominic Lam is a recognized and celebrated doctor, inventor, artist and philanthropist who is proud to be a Lakehead University alumnus. This world-renowned eye specialist began his post-secondary education at Lakehead University. Dr. Lam was born in Swatow, China, and grew up in Hong Kong. He moved to the City of Fort William in 1965, received a city scholarship to Lakehead and became one of the University’s first international students. Dr. Lam obtained his Bachelor of Science from Lakehead in 1967, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of British Columbia in 1968 and a PhD from the University of Toronto in 1970. He was a Postdoctoral Fellow in Neurobiology at Harvard Medical School, eventually joining the faculty in Neurobiology and Biochemistry.
Dr. Dominic Lam received an Honorary Doctor of Science.
Fellow of the University Roy Piovesana’s life has been one of firsts. Fifty years ago, Piovesana graduated from Lakehead as president of his class, making him, in many ways, the epitome of this University’s first group of students. Choosing to remain at Lakehead, he became one of the first students to enrol in one of our graduate programs. In 1969, he graduated with a Master of Arts in History, the first for that program and among the first Master of Arts graduates of our University. As a teacher, Piovesana inspired and educated generations of curious minds over the course of a career that provided countless Thunder Bay students the opportunity to pursue their post-secondary education dreams at home. Piovesana became a fixture within Thunder Bay’s arts and heritage community. As a historian, he continues to distinguish himself regionally, nationally, and internationally. A leading expert on Italian-Canadian history and religious history, he is one of the driving forces behind the Institute of Italian Studies Lakehead University (formerly the Chair in Italian Studies - Lakehead University), where he has served as president since 2011.
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Caribou Charity Ride, presented by Fresh Air, Celebrates New Look and New Route Length It’s been taking place since the Fall of 2009, and in that time organizers of the Caribou Charity Ride, presented by Fresh Air have made it one of Northwestern Ontario’s premiere cycling events. Knowing they wished to continue to host the event, they were also aware that it needed some changes to ensure its ongoing success.
riders understand exactly how their donations are making a difference to cancer patients and families in our community.” Since 2009, the Caribou Charity Ride, pre-
program are significant,” said Andrea Docherty, Program Director, Regional Cancer Care Northwest. “We’re very grateful for the ongoing support of the committee, participants, and sponsors that
This morning, the Ride committee unveiled a brand new look for the 2015 Caribou Charity Ride, presented by Fresh Air, that brings together the funky and fun vibe of the event, along with the look of the Northern Cancer Fund, where Ride proceeds are directed. “We really wanted to take this Ride to the next level and keep it spinning,” said Organizing Committee Member John Sims. “I think this new looks shows the community we are dedicated to this event and we see the growth it can have. It was important to us that the new look follow some of the elements of the Northern Cancer Fund brand, because all the proceeds of this event have always supported our local cancer centre, and will continue to do so. Part of our mandate is to help our
“It’s going to be a challenging ride for those who want to up their game from the 50 km route.” Registration is now open for the 2015 event, which takes place on Sunday, September 13. All routes begin at the Best Western Nor’Wester Hotel and Conference Centre on Highway 61 and then take to the hills of the surrounding Oliver Paipoonge Township. Following the Ride, cyclists return to the hotel to enjoy a well-deserved post-ride lunch. Those interested in signing up for this year’s Caribou Charity Ride, presented by Fresh Air, should visit cariboucharityride.com. Registration is $75 and includes a $25 gift certificate to the Caribou Restaurant and Wine Bar if signed up prior to August 15.
sented by Fresh Air, has raised $190,000, which has directly funded cancer care equipment in Thunder Bay, such as the newly-installed Cyclotron, Linear Accelerators (for radiation therapy), and chemotherapy chairs and equipment in 14 sites across the region.
“The Ride’s contributions to our cancer
make this Ride a priority and who recognize the importance of having exceptional cancer care equipment in Northwestern Ontario.” Organizers were happy to announce that, this year, they’ve added a new, 75 km route option to the existing route options of 50 km and 100 km. “We’re really excited about the 75 km option,” said Sims.
“The Ride is very inclusive and I invite everyone, regardless of their cycling ability, to join us in September,” said Sims. “It’s a great way to meet some new friends, enjoy a beautiful bike ride through some of the most magnificent scenery in our area, and raise funds for our cancer centre.”
Ontario Expanding NorWest Community Health Centres Putting Patients First by Improving Access to Care in Thunder Bay
Bay to give patients better access to health care closer to home.
Ontario is investing up to $8.4 million for a two-storey expansion of the NorWest Community Health Centres in Thunder
This major expansion will allow NorWest to serve more people, and will increase access to community services such as men-
tal health and addictions programs and diabetes education. Patients in Thunder Bay will benefit from new facilities, including: 16 exam rooms Two chiropody/foot care rooms Two large rooms with work stations for the primary care staff An education/training room and space for future growth. Construction at the 525 Simpson Street site in Thunder Bay is now underway and is expected to be complete in fall 2016. Ontario is making the largest infrastructure investment in Ontario’s history — more than $130 billion over 10 years, which will support more than 110,000 jobs per year on average, with projects such as roads, bridges, transit systems, schools and hospitals across the province. Investing in priority infrastructure, including community health centres, is part of the government's plan to build Ontario up. The four-part plan includes investing in people's talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history, creating a dynamic, innovative environment where business thrives, and building a secure retirement savings plan. QUOTES “Today marks an important milestone in the expansion of NorWest Community Health Centres’ Thunder Bay site. Once completed, the expanded facility will ensure patients have better access to a number of high-quality health care services in the community and closer to home.” — Dr. Eric Hoskins, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care “NorWest Community Health Centres is a key component of our primary care system in Thunder Bay and district. It has been a pleasure to work with this organization since 2003 and support the great work they do in our communities. Today’s announcement will further enable NorWest
Community Health Centres to provide high quality primary care services in our area.” — Bill Mauro, MPP, Thunder BayAtikokan “I am so proud to be part of a government that invests in the long-term needs of communities like ours. The expansion of the NorWest Community Health Centres’ Thunder Bay site will more than double its space allowing it to grow and service even more people in our region for years to come.” — Michael Gravelle, MPP, Thunder BaySuperior North “Today marks a truly momentous occasion for the Thunder Bay community as we celebrate the first construction milestone of this highly anticipated project that will enhance the delivery of high-quality programs and services for our communities in Thunder Bay and the District. Thank you to everyone involved. Years of planning, hard work and community partnership building are now becoming a reality.” — Wendy Talbot, CEO, NorWest Community Health Centres QUICK FACTS § Ontario’s long-term infrastructure plan will help connect regions, develop new economic opportunities and improve quality of life for Ontarians by supporting critical infrastructure projects in cities, towns, and rural and remote communities all across the province. § A Conference Board of Canada report estimated that Ontario’s public infrastructure investment would add more than $1,000 to the average annual income of Ontarians in 2014 and lower the unemployment rate by about one percentage point. § This expansion project will add approximately 18,677 square feet to the existing site for a total of 32,293 square feet. § Two adjoining properties have also been purchased to increase parking for the expanded facility.
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Contaminated Sites: Buyers Beware? © 2015 Brian Babcock A couple of months ago, I wrote about the need for sellers to beware of risks and liability arising from defects in property. This month, the tables are turned in a classic tale of buyer beware. The buyer purchased a commercial proper-
Legal Matters ty formerly occupied by a dry cleaner. The dry cleaning chemicals had contaminated the property. A few years later, a neighbour sued the buyer over contaminated groundwater. The buyer in turn sued the seller, and the buyer’s lawyer.
The buyer said the lawyer should have insisted on a warranty from the seller over environmental risks, but that was never part of the deal. At the trial, the judge determined that the buyer had known about the contamination prior to waiving an environmental condition in the agreement of purchase and sale, believing that the seller had provided the adverse environmental reports to the buyer in a timely fashion. The price reflected a discounted value consistent with the contamination. The buyer’s lawyer recommended further investigations, which the buyer ignored. The buyer also instructed the lawyer not to buy costly environmental title insurance (standard policies exclude environmental risks). The trial judge found, and the Court of Appeal agreed, that on the facts of the case, it was the buyer who was responsible
for satisfying himself about the environmental condition of the property, and that he took a risk. That risk is a business decision, and the courts refused to bail out the buyer for making the wrong decision. There are several lessons to be learned here: • Environmental risks cannot be ignored • Courts will not bail out bad business decisions • If a buyer choses to run the risk of buying with incomplete information, that buyer has no one to blame but themselves. A variety of tools exist to mitigate environmental risks in commercial “brownfield situations”, such as: • obtaining the best possible environmental assessments; • negotiating a price that
reflects the risks; • agreeing to a warranty after closing if the information is incomplete; • considering purchasing environmental title insurance; • Insuring for environmental liability to neighbours. Working with knowledgeable realtors, appraisers, engineers, insurers and lawyers allows buyers to make informed business decisions. Commercial real estate is always risky, so buyers must beware. Weilers has been advising buyers and sellers of commercial real estate for almost 70 years, and has a strong track record in dealing with environmental risks and claims.
How Should You Hit the Pavement? A fair bit of hype has been made in the last few years about the different types of running styles one should use and also the different types of shoes that a person should wear. As with most topics worth discussing, the short answer is “ it all depends...”. Let us start right from the beginning. Walking is by and far the best daily activity a person can do for overall health. Some people may choose to stick to walking their entire lives and that is great. However, sometimes a person gets so efficient and quick at walking that it starts to stress the hip joints. At this point light jogging rather than walking may actually be less stressful on the body and joints. Once one starts to jog and then increase speed to an actual running pattern, technique and proper footwear become essential. It is important to get good information and training before starting a running
program. Joining a running club or getting advice from an experienced and qualified professional can minimize injuries. The overwhelming majority of slow and recreational runners will run using a heel strike pattern, meaning that the heel is the first part of the foot to touch the ground when stepping. The recent hype by some has been to convert these heel strike runners to using a mid or fore foot ground strike. Running studies, which are almost always
done using elite athletes, have been a bit mixed on what is the best approach. Heel strike puts more stress on the knees while mid/forefoot strike puts a lot more stress on the ankles and foot bones (metatarsals). Despite what some runners might tell you, there is the same amount of force with both running styles, it is just distributed differently. The most recent studies suggest that both in terms of biomechanical forces and running efficiency, most runners should stick to the heel strike style. Mid/forefoot running only becomes marginally more efficient if you have a perfect biomechanical arch in your foot and can run faster than a 6 minute mile consistently (10 km in under 37 minutes). In terms of footwear, the most important factor is that it is comfortable and that it fits properly. Super stiff shoes do provide more support, especially for someone with flat feet but they tend to interfere with normal foot
movements and are generally not recommended for most people. Conversely the “Barefoot” running shoes give close to no support and the research confirms that significant higher injury rates occur in those transitioning to the minimalist footwear. You should be able to twist the running shoe. There is significant variation in midsole stiffness and manufacturers do not list any information, so it is up to the individual to twist and compare. Heel strike running requires more shock absorption on the heel while mid
foot running needs more stiffness in the midsole. Elite runners will debate and attempt different running styles and footwear to give them the edge over their competition. Proponents of mid foot running and minimalist running shoes will use the paleo argument that we evolved running bare foot in the savanahs. But modern day humans live in a far different world. Walking on asphalt and cement using supportive footwear from the day we were born is the new norm. This has changed the balance of power to different muscles, tendons and ligaments. Transitioning back takes time and is risky. So unless you are running in plush meadows and are as fast and graceful as a gazelle, most of us should stick to flexible but supportive footwear and heel strike running patterns. James DiGiuseppe is a local chiropractor
with a busy family and wellness practice. For more health information or to contact Dr DiGiuseppe visit www.portarthurchiropractic.com.
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Ambiance Catering By Sherry Aalto When one thinks of the word ‘ambiance’, these adjectives may come to mind: : atmosphere, air, aura, climate, mood, feel, feeling, character, quality, impression, complexion, FLAVOUR, look, tone, tenor. Ambiance Catering, Personal Chef and Gourmet Services, is dedicated to provide professional catering and culinary excellence, along with innovative inspired cuisine for your private party, corporate meetings or parties, weddings or any social event. Along with amazing menu selections, prepared especially for you, Ambiance Catering provides full service from menu planning, bar service, ice sculptures, cakes with digital images, tents, chairs, crystal, silverware, linens and post event clean-up. Also, Ambiance Catering is proud to offer the services of their Wine Sommelier. The Wine Sommelier will help you make expert selections for yourself and your guests when it comes to selecting the right wine to compliment the cuisine that you specially selected for your event. Ambiance Catering can bring the world to your event with their vast
expert preparation of world class cultural cuisine, such as some of the best Japanese food ever tasted! Whether it is a romantic dinner for two or a dinner for a group, Chef Geri and Ken, will have you amazed at the ambiance that they can create for you! Geri and Ken desire to prepare delicious fresh foods and to support the local farmers. When you choose Ambiance Catering, your event will be virtually stress free, as Geri and Ken secure your confidence in their professionalism, cuisine and services. You will be assured impeccable service and your event will be ready on time, even if they have to work all through the night to set it up. Competitive pricing with impeccable service, cuisine that will have you in bliss! Now that is a true recipe for complete satisfaction. Ambiance Catering is the ultimate in service, selection in delicious world or traditional cuisine, event planning and everything you will need to host your event along with Food Service Rentals. Catering your event could not possibly be made easier when you call Ambiance Catering. You deserve the best! Call Ambiance Catering today and all you will have to do is,
receive your guests! Your party is waiting! Ambiance Catering, contact them by web ambiance@ambiancecatering.ca or call them at (807)251-8468 or you may write to them at : Ambiance Catering P.O. Box 10593 Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 6T9
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2015 Staal Open Presented by Tbaytel Bigger & Better! BY SCOTT A. SUMNER
Thunder Bay BUSINESS Last season was the inaugural PGA Tour Canada Staal Open in Thunder Bay at the beautiful Whitewater Golf Club. It was a huge success and promised to be even better in the future. The organizers were right and the 2015 version made great strides in
attracting more people to the event with a wide variety of activities for all ages, both golfer and non golfers alike! “ We were able to jump on board last year and thought this event was a great opportunity to kick off our foundation and let people know what our foundation is
about. Our focus is to help children fighting cancer. For me on a personal level my wife’s sister passed away from cancer and it was a hard time for our family. We felt the need to help charities and to put our focus there.”said Eric Staal. “ We want to sustain this for many years to come. It is about being part of a great event and community. It was a lot of fun last year and should be even more so this year. It is nice to come back to Thunder Bay in the summer to relax and see people you knew growing up. The summer goes by quickly. There are some players here this week that will play the PGA Tour RBC Canadian Open next week and it is nice to see them here.” said Staal. The
Staal Foundation has grown and is looking to raise money for some good charities. “ I am better as a golfer this year than last but still mediocre. It is something I enjoy doing in the summer. It is relaxing and competitive at the same time. The hockey season is long and can be stressful so the summer is a great chance to exhale and regroup and golf is great game for that.” Remi and Alex are Ambassadors for Total Company an oil producer. “ We go across Canada with the Red Bull F1 car to promote the Total brand and expand the market. This is the 2014 Formula 1 car which won the Montreal F1 race last year with driver Daniel Riccardo. This is the second fastest car in the world behind the 2015 model. We are here to show Total exists and is the fifth biggest producer in the world.” The car weighs 1100 pounds with out the engine and with engine, gas and driver goes to 1500 pounds. It is 1.6 V6 eco boast liter. The connectic energy from the brakes is used to make electricity to make the turbo from the exhaust work. It is a very complex race car. The drivers can be
up to 6 feet tall but average 5 feet 2 inch to 5 feet 6inch and weigh 120 to 140 pounds. The 2015 Staal Open was won by JJ Spaun of California. It was fun watching JJ
compete and play well again at the 2015 RBC Canadian Open the next week in Oakville!