Business July 2016 by Scott Sumner

Convocation is a special time for Lakehead University graduates

INSIDE Community Groups in Northern Ontario are Beyond Good Understanding Your House Purchase A SALTY SITUATION

North Superior Publishing @tbay25

Sioux Lookout Ready For An Exciting Expansion

New Equipment Training Opportunities in Thunder Bay

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS JULY 2016

Sioux Lookout Ready For An Exciting Expansion BY SCOTT A. SUMNER

Thunder Bay BUSINESS Sioux Lookout has been known as the Hub of the North for many years. The airport services 28 communities in the region. When a new regional hospital was created in Sioux Lookout, increased Sioux Lookout Airport traffic level was the result. “ In the past 6 years we have averaged about 120,000 passengers per year and 30,000 aircraft movements per year. We have scheduled service with Wasaya and Bearskin Airways. There are three chartered airlines here as well - North Star, Northern Skies and Sky Air. During freeze up and break up we have other charters and medevac service. Orange has two fixed wing aircraft based in Sioux Lookout.” said Ben Hancharuk Airport Manager, Sioux Lookout. “ We have 80 flights a day and scheduled service every day. Wasaya has the majority as they feed the north and Thunder Bay, Bearskin goes east and west and then south.” The biggest aircraft that could land on an ongoing basis at the Sioux Lookout Airport is a Bombardier Q400. They could take a Boeing737 with no contaminents (rain or snow for example) but not on a scheduled basis. Their runway is 5300 feet long and 100 feet wide. Perimeter comes in with a Dash 8 5 days a week now. The popular aircraft flying here is the 1900 and Metro which hold19 passengers. “ We are an economic driver and that is how any community should consider an airport. If you have an airport you have an opportunity to help and provide a service to the local economy.” said Ben Hancharuk. The Sioux lookout Airport has 14 employees but at the last count there is an 110 additional staff that work at the airport within the communities. There are 7 hangars as well as hospitality operations like the new Days Inn which went up recently, with 5 motels here in total. “ We get a mix of travellers. The northern communities are advancing, becoming more and more economically sustainable and growing. You get a mix of medical, pleasure and business travel from the communities. It could be the band councilor, the economic development officers or service providers

out of Sioux Lookout from health care and the trades etc. It is a good mix of medical and business travel.” said Ben. “ We also get vacationers in the summer, mostly from the US, with about about 50 flights annually. We are a jump off point for tourism with fishing and hunting and outposts and camps. Sioux Lookout is a very busy airport in the North. The climate can be tough and a challenge but you get used to it each year with the seasons. It is always a challenge, we are a similar climate to Thunder Bay.”

The Sioux Lookout Airport’s objective is to enhance the airport’s role in the community as an economic catalyst while achieving a high level of operational excellence in its operation as a safe and secure facility. The Sioux Lookout Airport is licensed as a public aerodrome and caters to the ever increasing demand of scheduled flights by Bearskin Airlines, Wasaya Airways, Perimeter Air and charter flights by Skycare Air Ambulance, Bamaji Air,

Aviation History Sioux Lookout Airport started operation in 1933. In the mid-thirties, Popular Mechanics magazine reported in an article on aviation, that Sioux Lookout (Hudson) Airport was at the time the second busiest Airport in North America next to Chicago. Today, the airport is a “Mini-Hub” facilitating travel to and from all northern communities in Northwestern Ontario. The two main factors that brought the north closer to Sioux Lookout Airport were the termination of winter tractor trains going north. (The end of an era of hearty breed of men); the other was the Ministry of Transportation program in 1968 of “Highways in the Sky” and building of landing strips at the northern villages. The Airport now accommodates aircraft’s on a 24 hours basis with carrier operations averaging 30,000 movements annually.

The Sioux Lookout Airport is in the stage of finalizing a design build for a terminal expansion of 1000 meters or about 10,000 square feet. “ Our current terminal was designed for 55,000 passengers per year and we are now at 120,000. Our current operators don’t have sufficient space to operate efficiently . They manage with what they have but is time to expand. The last expansion was in 1995.” “ We have gone out for expressions of interest and got 8 responses. That was narrowed down to 3 and they got the design build RFP which closed June 8th and is being scored from our side, users with technical support and consultants. We should be under construction by late summer with footing in the ground before the frost. It will be a challenge as we have to stay operational. We will provide information to the users and others to help with the travel. It will probably be up to 18 months to complete.”

Superior Airways, Northern Skies and Thunder Air. The airport also serves as a base for Ornge, Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service (NAPS), private aircraft owners and several charters both from the United States and within Canada. The Sioux Lookout Airport is easily accessible with connecting flights to carriers such as Air Canada, WestJet, United Airlines, and Northwest Airlines, to name a few. This airport also acts as a hub for passengers and patients for the Meno-Ya-Win Health Centre from 29 northern communities and 17 nursing stations, as well as a mid-point for sportsmen and cargo to the communities and fishing and hunting areas in the further north. Due to its valuable services to the northern communities, this airport is acting as a major transfer point between the southern and northern communities.

At present, the Sioux Lookout Airport accommodates a 24 hour NavCanada Flight Services Station (FSS), and has hangars belonging to Allen Airways, Bearskin Airlines, Red Hawk Aviation, Ornge, Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service, Northern Airborne Maintenance, Skycare Air Ambulance and Wasaya Airways. History of Aviation in Sioux Lookout Sioux Lookout has been a part of the birth and growth of aviation since the early 1920’s, from its infancy through to its current maturity. Going back to the early 1920’s, transcontinental flights have always taken place over the forested areas of Ontario. The first flight into Sioux Lookout was in 1921 by the local Ministry of Natural Resources. This, a landmark event, introduced the people of Sioux Lookout to the fascinating world of flight. The gold discoveries in the Red Lake area opened the gateway for aircraft in the north to provide the much needed alternate form of transportation. In March 1926, Mr. Jack Elliot of Eastern Ontario shipped two Curtis JN4 aircraft by rail to Sioux Lookout. These aircraft were then ferried to Hudson by Elliot and Harold Farrington and commenced air service to Red Lake. In March 1926, Western Canadian Airways was formed with the financial backing from financier James A. Richardson of Winnipeg. The first aircraft to arrive was a Fokker Universal, ferried from New Jersey to Sioux Lookout by Pilot Oakes and Engineer Al Cheeseman. The Canadian Airlines name continued on in Sioux Lookout until it was taken over by Canadian Pacific Railway in 1941. In 1946 with the arrival of Norseman CFBSL crewed by Eddie Richards & Arnold Wallace, Hudson Bay Air Transport began its operations from Sioux Lookout. In 1955 State Falls Airways was established by Gordon Norell & Arnold Hunt with the purchase of Super Club aircraft. In 1967 with the takeover of Trans Air , Dave Hooker commenced operations in Sioux Lookout. The operation of charter flights and freight hauling was carried on from an improved office and maintenance facilities. Finally in 1974, the Municipality of Sioux Lookout bought the present airport from the Federal Ministry of Transportation.

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS JULY 2016

Publisher’s Note Scott Sumner

Approximately 1,700 degrees were awarded at this year’s Convocation Ceremonies held at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium.

Convocation is a special time for Lakehead University graduates and dedication of Tammy Squitti and Bill Bartley, who will each be named Fellow of the University. Murray Walberg, Chair of Lakehead’s Board of Governors, said these individu-

Friday, May 27 – 2 pm • Faculty of Medicine • Faculty of Law • Faculty of Business Administration • Faculty of Engineering

The Hon. Jean Charest, Helen Cromarty, and Dr. Keijo Virtanen received an honorary doctorate for their work in politics, health care, and research on Finnish immigration to Canada, respectively.

The Charest government has been a world leader on the environment and climate change, and best known for a major initiative for the sustainable development of Northern Québec called “Plan Nord”.

For the International arena, his administration was the most active in the history of Québec. Thus, the Charest government initiated an unprecedented labour mobility agreement between France and Québec, and convinced Canada and the European Union to negotiate a broad economic partnership.

Saturday, May 28 – 9:30 am • Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences

Lakehead University also recognized five exceptional people at this year’s ceremonies.

his country’s delegation at the 1992 Earth Summit on the economy and the environment in Rio and was praised for his leadership role among G7 countries on climate change and biodiversity.

Under his leadership, Québec experienced a sustained period of economic prosperity with stronger economic growth from 2008 to 2012 than the US, Europe, Canada and Ontario, despite a global financial and economic crisis.

Convocation Schedule was:

Saturday, May 28 – 2 pm • Faculty of Education • Faculty of Science and Environmental Studies • Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities • Faculty of Natural Resources Management

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als were selected due to their contributions to Lakehead University.

Jean Charest is a Partner at McCarthy Tétrault. He provides invaluable expertise to the firm’s clients with his in-depth knowledge and experience with public policy, corporate Canada and international matters.

“Bill Bartley and Tammy Squitti have made a profound impact on Lakehead University and this is our way of publically saying thank you,” Walberg said.

As a strategic advisor with a unique perspective, he supports clients on complex transactions, projects and international mandates, as they navigate the global business environment.

Honorary Degree Recipients

Jean Charest received an Honorary Doctor of Laws during the Friday afternoon ceremony.

The Hon. Jean Charest “Honorary degree recipients are chosen based on their excellent contributions to society and their remarkable service,” said Dr. Brian Stevenson, Lakehead’s President and Vice-Chancellor.

As Deputy Prime Minister of Canada and Premier of Québec, Jean Charest is one of Canada’s best known political figures. As Minister of the Environment, he led

Lakehead also recognized the hard work

Continued

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS JULY 2016

Convocation is a special time for Lakehead University graduates Continued

Helen Cromarty received an Honorary Doctor of Science during the Saturday morning ceremony.

Helen Cromarty Dr. Keijo Virtanen Helen Cromarty (Barkman) of Sachigo Lake First Nation began her education as a residential school student and attained her HBScN degree from Lakehead University.

Keijo Virtanen’s research work began at the University of Turku, Finland. He published his doctoral dissertation in 1979 on the return of Finnish migrants from overseas countries, particularly the United States and Canada.

During her 45-year career as a nurse, she worked ICU-CCU for 23 years. Then as Health Policy Analyst/Health Liaison at Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) and

Thunder Bay campus. She has volunteered with this Board of Directors for nine years and was instrumental in the planning and construction of the new $3.5 million childcare centre on campus, offering a nurturing learning environment for children of Lakehead University students, faculty, staff and the community. Tammy is a proud Aboriginal Nisga’a Status Indian. She graduated from Confederation College’s Social Service Worker Program and has worked in vocational rehabilitation at The Workplace Safety & Insurance Board for 27 years. She obtained the designation of a Registered Certified Vocational Professional from the College of Vocational Rehabilitation Professionals and the Vocational Rehabilitation Association of Canada. While working full-time, Tammy attended Lakehead University as a part-time student and earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in May 2006.

In addition to migration and ethnicity, his publications focus on the influence of North-American culture in Finland, the methodological questions of historical research as well as university and science policy. He held a number of positions in the University of Turku and the Academy of Finland.

Special Advisor for First Nation Health at Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre (SLMHC). Helen was in many leadership roles in the development and implementation of health care programs and services delivered throughout NAN and Ontario. She made major contributions in the development of Lakehead University’s Native Nurses Entry Program and the Aboriginal Healing and Wellness Strategy. At SLMHC, she contributed to the traditional and cultural programs and published several articles on health research. Helen was recognized for her work in First Nations Health by the Aboriginal Nurses Association of Canada, Nishnawbe Aski Nation, and the Chiefs of Ontario. She has an extensive board and committee experience, including Lakehead University, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Wequedong Lodge and Aboriginal Health Services for Accreditation Canada. Helen is a residential school survivor, friend, sister, aunt, mother, and Kookom (grandmother). Her husband, Dennis Franklin Cromarty, passed away February 3, 1993. She is proud of their five children and a very proud Kookom of three beautiful girls.

He was appointed the Professor of Cultural History in 1990, having worked as an acting Professor since 1983. He was a research assistant at the University of Michigan in 1974-75 and Fulbright researcher in 1988-89.

Presently, he is both the Chair of the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority and the Source Protection Authority; Secretary / Treasurer of the Prostate Cancer Canada Network – Thunder Bay; and Treasurer of the 18 (Thunder Bay) Service Battalion Senate. Bill is a past president of the Lakehead University Alumni Association; past governor of Lakehead University; former Councillor in the Municipality of Shuniah; past vice-president of the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association; past board member of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario; and past director of the ROMA Insurance Board. Over the past two years, Bill has been honoured not only by his fellow alumni but now by his university community. In 2015, Bill was awarded the “Alumni Legacy Award’ and now he will be joining his late father as a Fellow of the University. He looks forward to his renewed association with Lakehead

Tammy’s commitment to the wellness of our community is evident in her 10 years of continuous volunteer service with the Thunder Bay Indian Friendship Centre in the Aboriginal Community Council Program, participating in Restorative Justice Circles to support the people of Thunder Bay. She also volunteers with the Thunder Bay Police Service sponsorship committee in support of Special Olympics Ontario and the Can Am Police-Fire Games. Tammy is married to Robert Squitti and her favorite role in life is the one called “Mom” to their only child – Robert Squitti Jr. University.

In the 1970s he made several long trips to Canada and the United States to microfilm archival material on Finnish immigrants.

Tammy was named Fellow of the University on Saturday morning.

Keijo became the longest-serving Rector/President of the University of Turku (1997-2012). He has been awarded an honorary doctorate by the Klaipeda University (Lithuania) and the University of Tartu (Estonia). He is the Honorary Consul of Estonia in Southwest Finland. After his retirement in 2012, Keijo continues with his research on migration. Bill Bartley The John Morton Center for North American Studies was established at the University of Turku in 2014 as led by him. He is the Chair of the Council of the Institute of Migration. Keijo and his wife Orvokki have two children, Seppo and Marjaana, and six grandchildren. Seppo has a doctorate in Information Technology and Marjaana in Musicology. Keijo Virtanen received an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters on Saturday afternoon.

Bill Bartley was born in Atikokan, Ontario but soon moved to Thunder Bay when his father Dr. M. W. Bartley became the first Principal of Lakehead Technical Institute (now Lakehead University). Bill is also a charter student at Hammarskjold High School where he graduated prior to entering Lakehead University to complete his Bachelor of Arts degree.

Bill was named Fellow of the University on Saturday afternoon.

Lakehead University has about 9,700 fulltime equivalent students and 2,000 faculty and staff in 10 faculties at two campuses in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Lakehead 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 2016 University Rankings place Lakehead University second in Ontario and among Canada’s Top 10 undergraduate universities, and first among Ontario’s undergraduate universities for Total Research Dollars, Social Sciences & Humanities Grants, and Library Expenses. In 2015, Re$earch Infosource ranked Lakehead first among Canada’s undergraduate universities. Visit www.lakeheadu.ca.

Upon retiring in 2013, she felt honoured to have completed the circle in her career. Her first nursing post was at the Sioux Lookout Indian Hospital, now known as the Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre.

Fellows Tammy Squitti Tammy Squitti is a Lakehead alumna and the Chairperson on the Board of Directors of Nanabijou Childcare Centre located on the beautiful Lakehead University

He followed a career in the Transportation and Distribution industry. Bill also served in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves for over 20 years across Canada as well as in Germany during the Cold War era.

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS JULY 2016

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New Equipment Training Opportunities in Thunder Bay BY SCOTT A. SUMNER

Thunder Bay BUSINESS Melissa Hardy-Giles and Paul Giles are co owners of Origin Operator Recruitment & Training, an innovative company that utilizes state-of-the-art techniques to train equipment operators effectively. They make heavy equipment training and careers accessible to all, and do it in a fun, safe and cost-effective way by utilizing state-of-the-art simulators to measure skill/ability/interest/etc. for three main purposes: 1. To determine suitable candidates for

Ashley, that was quite serious about our training and we were able to promote her and get her placed in employment. She is currently employed at the Musslewhite Mine as a rock truck operator,” said Melissa Hardy- Giles. “We have found that a lot of the employers are looking for women operators, the reason being they are more efficient, easier on the machines and seem to be really in demand. I have always tried to empower women, to try to change their lives. It could be through heavy equipment employment. This training makes it less intimidating for women. We have a Women in ConstructionTraining program and want to expand to get into new areas and provide opportunities.”

further training 2. To build training programs based on skilled, motivated and suitable trainees 3. To refer existing operators to employers with available operating positions (skills database) “ Today is a milestone as we are launching our training centre in the city. We were formally based out of Fort William First Nation and operated mobile. Now we have both as options- in class sessions as well as mobile. The vision of Origin is to quantify the skills of male and female equipment operators and connect them to job opportunities.” said Paul Giles. The simulators are manufactured by Caterpillar and are state of the art machines which are good as a training tool, can measure ability and are very accurate. “ The certifying of operators is inconsistent between different institutions and we are adding some quantification to it with data. This classroom will allow us to service individuals. Not everyone wants to go through a $10,000 6 to 8 week program but just want to enhance their skills and improve as well as proving their skills. They come here by the hour and get some training.” said Paul Giles. The goal of Origin is to grow their operator network and provide more opportunities for those that are taking the training. For instance they have captured the attention of some of the mining firms that are operating here and are working at becoming a recruiting mechanism. “ We have a 20 year old girl as a student,

Origin still have the capacity to place their simulators on a Pilatus sized aircraft and fly them into a remote community. They also have a mobile classroom in a trailer. The training is for males and females. The work place is changing and more females doing the work is happening.

“ Operators may not have the network to get a full time job and showcase their abilities and we have been able to help with that and promote them. Our goal is to get the relationships and trust built with employers in the region.” said Paul Giles. The ORIGIN Mission Recruit, quantify and inventory skill of equipment operators and connect them to employment or to provide additional training prior to employment.

And with the knowledge of our Communities, we have incorporated Life Skill & Job Readiness components into our skilled training programs. All by using real CATERPILLAR simulators. For Individuals, we provide a Comfortable process to help discover natural skills and possible career paths. For Industry, we provide the Solution to finding quality operators.

How Is ORIGIN Different? As a First Nation owned company, we help bridge gaps between Communities & Industry.

For Employers, we can help Save Money by implementing intelligent screening services that find the right people for the job.

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS JULY 2016

Influential Women Winners from Thunder Bay & Executive of the Year - Thunder Bay Anne Marie Heron When Anne Marie Heron moved to Thunder Bay in 1996, little did she know just how important the city would become.

When it comes to business, Margot Woodworth’s greatest ally can also be her biggest adversary, and Mother Nature didn’t hesitate to remind her of that this past spring as she prepared for her busiest weekend. Young Entrepreneur of the Year - Fort William First Nation

Entrepreneur of the Year - Dryden Margot Woodworth

Kateri Banning-Skaarup A full calendar is the best medicine for Kateri Banning-Skaarup.

Business of the Year - Thunder Bay Brenda Adams Brenda Adams isn’t your everyday pharmacist. The animal-loving, active-living pharmacist brings creativity and compassion to her business on a daily basis.

Tradeswoman of the Year - Red Lake Heather Willis Heather Willis has a straight ahead approach to building her career. Aboriginal Leadership - Thunder Bay Wendy Landry The remarkable contributions Wendy Landry has made to her community are seemingly arbitrary, but a consistent theme connects them all: advocacy and education. Influential Community Trailblazer Thunder Bay Terri-Lynne Carter Terri-Lynne Carter became a strident voice for the impoverished in Thunder Bay when she became one of the disadvantaged.

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS JULY 2016

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NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO IS WAITING FOR YOU! And Kasper Transportation Can Get You There! By Sherry Aalto If you are wishing to go to or you are sending for someone, whether it be for personal, corporate or event destinations in Northwestern Ontario, then you need to call Kasper Transportation at 1-855-5662378 (Mini Bus) or 1-844-952-7354 (Air Taxi). Comfort, safety and connection! That is what you will be experiencing when you climb aboard a Mercedes Benz Sprinter Mini Bus with Kasper Transportation! Now serving points of Northwestern Ontario that were otherwise, difficult to get to in a timely manner and fashion, Kasper Transportation offers chartered or regular scheduled busing services. This is the ride you have been waiting for! Now serving these locations, Longlac, Geraldton, Sioux Lookout, Hearst, Beardmore, Nipigon, Ignace and Thunder Bay, Kasper Transportation offers state of the art transportation on the ground or in the air! With excellent scheduled times for departure and arrival, along with great places to board from, Kasper Transportation should be your choice when booking your next trip, whether it be to visit relatives, going home for the weekend from university, site seeking, wedding or anniversary events, or just shopping. The mini busses are so comfortable that you will get that ‘not so crowded’ feeling and you will enjoy an even more personal experience with your service driver as well! But! No distractions please, as Kasper Transportation pride themselves on Safety and rightfully so. The Mercedes Benz Sprinter Mini Bus has many beautiful features, such as, comfortable seats, made in Thunder Bay air suspension for extra smooth riding, appealing décor and when it comes to safety, Kasper Transportation goes the extra mile, (pun intended), and has installed Moose Bumpers on the front of every mini bus! This is something that Mercedes never even thought of, but then, we live in the North so how would they know? And this, as everyone will agree, is an absolute MUST! Along with the Moose Bumpers, Kasper has also ordered every mini bus with EXTRA headlamps for easy and clear vision for night driving. With all of these features combined, you will come to appreciate and know the difference for

comfort and safety. You will be able to sit and relax and yes… you can even talk and

text during your ride! But let’s not stop there! Kasper Transportation also has air service to Northern destinations. Kasper Aviation is proud to fly modern aircraft that include state of the art amenities and robust navigation packages, scheduled flights, charters and Air Taxi On Demand. The Air Taxi services are available to transport individuals between communities or for corporate travel or for your special event needs! Want to book an entire aircraft? Let Kasper help you organize your travel plans for you. Kasper’s fleet is comprised of new aircraft with state of the art safety equipment. With Safety as their priority, Kasper

Transportation is proud to say that they adhere to the highest safety standards release (14 CFR Part 23). The Gipps Aero GA8 Airvan was created with simplicity and economics in mind. The Airvan is easy to load, fly and maintain. Innovative design details set the Airvan apart from its competitors, and makes the operation of the aircraft safer and less complicated. The GA8 is an operationally proven workhorse that provides outstanding performance while providing a smooth and pleasant ride. Seating capacity 6 seats, payload 1400 lbs., range 750 miles, cruise speed 155mph., dimensions, cargo door Size: 41.5” by 42”. The Quest Kodiak is the newest addition to our fleet. Setting the new standard in 10 place turboprops, the Quest shines in applications where there is a need to operate comfortably and perform extraordinarily. Its rugged construction combines superior STOL performance and high useful load. The Quest shines in applications where there is a need to operate comfort-

ably and perform extraordinarily. Extra additions include the Max Viz 1400 IR Camera for unprecedented nagivation day or night & USB ports in all seats. Seating capacity 8 seats, payload 3000 lbs., range 1300 miles, cruise speed 339 kmph. You can visit Kasper Transportation on their website at gokasper.com or you can call them directly at 1-855-566-2378 (Mini Bus) or 1-844-952-7354 (Air Taxi). They are located at 947 Memorial Avenue, Thunder Bay, Ontario. You can also visit them on Facebook and on Youtube. This much needed service for the north has been long past due. It is exciting to know that Kasper Wabinski had the vision and the passion to see this service to fruition and is expanding his fleet as you are reading this…literally! So! Go with Kasper and then tell your friends and family about your experience. Oh! And did we mention the reasonable rates?

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS JULY 2016

Ontario Providing Mineral Exploration Assistance and Training Province Supporting Jobs and Growth in Mineral Sector Ministry of Northern Development and Mines

“Wallbridge Mining is very pleased to have been accepted as a successful applicant for the Junior Exploration Assistance Program for our exploration projects in Sudbury. Ontario is a great place to invest in mineral exploration and these incentives will help as we work to find the next generation of mines.” Marz Kord

Ontario is supporting mineral exploration work by junior exploration companies and providing training opportunities for new and potential prospectors. The province is partnering with the Ontario Prospectors Association and announced a $5 million investment, through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), to support the delivery of the Junior Exploration Assistance Program in the spring. Following the program's first round of applications the Ontario Prospectors Association has committed to support 32 exploration projects across Northern Ontario. A second round of applications will be accepted from May 30 to August 30, 2016. The Junior Exploration Assistance Program is delivering on the province's Mineral Development Strategy by providing financial support to increase mineral exploration in Northern Ontario. The program also provides incentives for mineral exploration companies to actively engage Indigenous skills training or capacity building. Later this summer, the province and the Ontario Prospectors Association will also deliver the Prospecting Training Program, a five-day course, open to members of the public interested in becoming prospectors. Further training courses will also be delivered in 11 Indigenous communities across the province. Investing in mineral exploration in Northern Ontario is part of the government's economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes investing in talent and skills, including helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is mak-

President and CEO, Wallbridge Mining Co. Ltd.

ing the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history and investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.

Quick Facts • The Junior Exploration Assistance Program and Prospecting Training Program support Ontario’s Mineral Development Strategy, a 10-year vision to position the province as the global leader in sustainable mineral exploration and development. • The Mineral Development Strategy is a commitment of the Growth Plan for Northern Ontario, which is driving a globally competitive economy, supporting people and communities, renewing and expanding modern infrastructure and supporting a healthy environment. • Ontario led Canada in mining exploration spending last year with over $390 million in expenditures, nearly one-quarter of the country’s total. • Ontario’s value of mineral production reached $10.8 billion last year. • Ontario accounts for approximately 25 per cent of mining jobs in Canada. • Mining is the largest private employer of Indigenous peoples in Ontario.

www.hatch.com

Background Information • Ontario Supporting Mineral Exploration Sector

Additional Resources • Mineral Development Strategy

“At a time when most junior explorers are struggling in a significant industry downturn, Transition Metals Corp commends the Ontario Government in taking action to support exploration in the province through its Junior Explorer Assistance Program. Ontario continues to be an excellent place to discover economic deposits and the government’s investing in a strong mining future in province” Scott McLean President and CEO, Transitions Metal Corp.

Quotes “Our government is ensuring Ontario remains a global leader in mining to allow the mineral sector to continue to provide significant social and economic contributions to the province. Our partnerships with the Ontario Prospectors Association will help us reach this goal by stimulating mineral exploration in Ontario.” Michael Gravelle Minister of Northern Development and Mines “The Ontario Prospectors Association welcomes the government's investment to support junior exploration companies. Junior exploration companies will use this support to help them move their projects to the next level in development.” Garry Clark Executive Director, Ontario Prospectors Association

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS J ULY 2016

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Legal Matters Buying a house is typically the most important financial commitment of our lives (next to marriage, perhaps). So understanding the Agreement is crucial. Taking a few key steps before you sign increases your odds of being a happy homeowner. An Agreement of a Purchase and Sale is a

binding contract which sets out in detail the rights and obligations of the parties to the house deal. So you want to review it carefully BEFORE you sign, and get your realtor or a lawyer to explain anything you don’t understand. 1. As a binding contract, things like the price, the closing date and other terms cannot be changed without a further agreement, so BEFORE you sign, pause to review the terms. 2. The agreement likely contains conditions such as a satisfactory home inspection, financing, satisfactory zoning, or the sale of your current home. If these conditions are not satisfied, the contract may be voided. 3. Conditions are good ways to protect yourself from the unexpected.

4. Are appliances included in the deal? If so, they, together with any other movable items, must be specified as included. 5. Is everything you expect covered in the agreement? Once the deal is signed, verbal promises no longer are enforceable. Get it in writing. 6. If either party fails to complete their obligations, the innocent party can seek remedies. 7. Remedies include forfeiture of the deposit or specific performance – the completion of the contract as agreed, or a lawsuit by the seller for damages of they end up selling for a lower price, or have extra costs.

8. Damages are NOT limited by the amount of the deposit. 9. If the contract was entered into because of duress, fraud or misrepresentation, it may be invalid, and a court may make orders to put the parties back into their pre-contract position. 10. The agreement also determines what you can sue for if the house is not what you expect after purchase- though title insurance may solve the problem, not everything is covered by insurance. You should discuss what title insurance does and does not cover with your lawyer, but everything starts with getting the agreement right. Weilers Law has been helping home buyers have happy experiences for over 70 years.

A SALTY SITUATION Salt (or more correctly) sodium, is an essential element for life, without it we would die. Literature and our language is filled with phrases and quotes about salt like “salt of the earth” or “take with a pinch of salt”. However, too much salt (sodium) is a real health issue in North America. Health Canada reports that the average Canadian consumes about 3400 mg of sodium per day with many people

taking in much more. A human being needs about 1500 mg of sodium with an upper limit of 2300 mg per day. Studies

show that 70 – 95% of the Canadian population consumes substantially more than that upper limit. What does this mean to our health? Excess sodium is a major contributor to high blood pressure (hypertension). Hypertension raises the risk of dying from a heart attack or stroke more so than smoking, high cholesterol and obesity. Prolonged hypertension will also damage the kidneys, heart and brain causing chronic kidney failure, heart valve malfunction and dementia. Taking drugs to lower blood pressure has not really solved the problem as many people with hypertension have had it for a long time causing a fair amount of organ damage already. On top of that about 30% of the population are not aware that they have hypertension because you cannot feel it. This is why hypertension has been labeled as the silent killer. So what can we do about this epidemic? Health Canada along with the provincial governments have been working towards supporting Canadians to reduce sodium consumption with a goal of average sodium intake of 2300 mg, down from the 3400 mg. They are trying to achieve this

goal by: making Canadians aware and educating us on sodium and healthy living, supporting research of sodium reduction, providing guidance to assist the food industry in lowering the amount of sodium in processed foods. The taste for salt is a learned taste which can be unlearned. This is done by gradually reducing salt in all food and recipes over time. For this to really move forward though we need the entire food industry from restaurants and bakeries to canned food plants and pre made meal factories to be on board. Three quarters of the sodium we consume is added by food companies and restaurants and actually very little is added during home cooking or from your salt shaker. In fact, using your salt shaker on home made food on your plate is probably the best bang for your sodium buck in terms of flavour. But lets be totally clear: a ham and cheese sandwich on two pieces of bread with mustard is not home made food even if you put it together at home. The sandwich contains about 800 mg of sodium. In comparison, a piece of grilled beef, pork, chicken or fish with a side of rice or potatoes and sautéed veggies which you prepared at home and added salt to taste on your

plate is home made and has about 500 mg of sodium. But as soon as you start adding those store bought sauces you can double the sodium. Better choices for flavouring would be to use olive oil, vinegars, herbs and spices of your own early in the cooking process to develop deeper richer flavours. At this point you can safely estimate that anything you eat that is prepackaged and or not cooked at home will have at least 2 to 3 times the sodium than if you were to make it yourself. When cooking at home using cook book recipes, you can generally reduce the salt in half. Understanding how much sodium is in the food you consume along with learning to modify your sodium taste buds can quite easily reduce your sodium intake by 2030%. If we all did this it would mean a huge reduction in hypertension which would save thousands of lives and decrease the cost in health care into the billions! 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.

Red Sky Metis Independent Nation Provide Valuable Service forestry manual right now or the wet lands which has a discussion paper out currently. Basically anything the Ontario government and City of Thunder Bay are doing right now, we have the opportunity to provide feedback so we are part of the process.” said Whellan. “ We also do fire arms training, the hunter safety course and wild turkey licenses with our staff member George Gallinger.” “ We are happy to be part of Aboriginal Day today as it is time to represent our pride and to be here for our citizens to learn more about our community.” said Dean Whellan.

BY SCOTT A. SUMNER

Thunder Bay BUSINESS

The Red Sky Metis Independent Nation are signatories to the Robertson Superior Treaty of 1850 and have roughly 3000 citizens currently living in the Thunder Bay area. Overall there are around 8000 citizens in Canada. “ Our community represents the 84 that were on the Robertson Superior Treaty and as time went on some people moved away for employment and other reasons. We are currently working on our citizenship going through a card process to get the exact numbers.” said Dean Whellan, Community Consultant with the Red Sky Metis Independent Nation. “ We look over different projects that

are going on in the treaty area, get the overall opinion as to how that effects our community members. We present that to the government to make sure the

treaty rights are still being respected. The projects could be a mining project and any changes to the laws, the planning of forestry, the changing of the

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS JULY 2016

New Resource for Local Start-Up Companies and Innovators Thunder Bay’s new small business incubation zone was unveiled recently at the Waverley location of the Thunder Bay Public Library. Aptly named hub:north, it is a low-cost to free resources for local entrepreneurs, innovators and start-up companies. It is a collaborative project between Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC), Thunder Bay & District Entrepreneur Centre, Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre, Thunder Bay Public Library (TBPL), and the City of Thunder Bay. It is also supported by the Ontario government.

new businesses,” adds Councillor Rebecca Johnson. “The Library’s expanding programs speaks to the creative and innova-

into the market.” hub:north includes furnished areas, online

Angus Foster Director and Editor, Mark Doble Co founder and Operations Ski-Lines.com Angus has raced at two world championships for Canada. Mark raced and coached and just graduated from Queen’s Law School.

“hub: north is meant to fast-track new businesses and innovations by providing entrepreneurs a space to work and grow their start-ups into full-fledged operations,” said Piero Pucci, Development Officer at CEDC. “As an incubator, it is designed to facilitate innovation and small business growth, and it is set to increase innovation and collaboration in our region.” Located downstairs at the Waverley Resource Library, hub:north is open to anyone to use and provides spaces and services conducive to innovation and business development including the consulting, training, mentoring, and market research services. hub:north will allow entrepreneurs to move their businesses out of their homes and into an environment that will enhance the development of their projects. Stephen Hurrell, Head of Automation at TBPL said at the launch, “Not only will hub: north provide a functional area for entrepreneurs to cultivate their projects, but it will also serve as a comfortable and inviting space for them to share ideas and develop relationships, partnerships, and

“The site started to have content not written in english about skiing translated to english and published. We are also building on to the e-commerce in skiing that most don’t have the skills to do. As we start first with our news site we feel we have a foot hold in the market with a large audience of targeted ski fans and users. ( 3500 active monthly users) We will have businesses sell their products on the site.” “ We have a long way to grow. The size of the market is large enough to create a very large business but not large enough to attract a lot of competition.” Angus Foster Director and Editor, Mark Doble Co founder and Operations SkiLines.com tive manner in which we’re able to address the needs of small businesses, and we wish the best to these start-ups on their ventures.” hub:north will be home to at least five start-ups over the next few months as part of Costarter, an intensive build-by-doing accelerator program designed to get earlystage products off the ground. Along with start-up space within hub:north, these companies will receive $15,000 in investment funding, mentorship from local experts, as well as training, information, and services from the Innovation Centre, CEDC and Entrepreneur Centre, and TBPL. The Costarter participants are: Bee Meety – mobile application used to set up meetings and connect professionals Easy Health – mobile application for specific sectors within the healthcare industry Ski-Lines.com – online skiing news content and market place CTRL Cosmetics – organic and environmentally friendly beauty products Microbiate – chemical and contaminant neutralizer used for cleaning hazardous spills safely

products with fellow innovators.” “The City of Thunder Bay realizes the importance of these community partnerships in building an environment that helps

there. We have had lots of kids coming in here to build things, as well as technical groups.” “ Get your library card as it is free so why wouldn’t you. Come here and use the resources. eg census demographics info and global business resources. We have desks where people can come and sit and observe. It is very exciting here.”

James Ellard, Business Development Officer of the Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre says, “Costarter attracts both local start-ups and international entrepreneurs. We’re excited to work with this new group of Costarter companies and look forward to helping their innovative early stage products get off the ground and

bookable desks, storage lockers, meeting rooms, and access to the Library’s Makerspace, which features tech-related workshops, demonstrations, and the use of a 3D printer. It provides free Wi-Fi as well as mailing, faxing, scanning, and printing services on a cost recovery basis. Stephen Hurrell, Head of Automation at TBPL “ This is the only approach like this in Canada. If you are a business person you are in with birds of a feather. If you need technical support it is right here as well. The library is surrounding here and can service a number of needs of the business person. It is also a very open and inclusive space- anyone can come here. We have left our kids area adjacent to this area. If you write an app and you want feedback just ask a teenager and they will tell you what they think immediately quickly.” “The library is the owner of the space but it has to earn it’s keep. We have streamlined our service with opening up this space. We partnered with the city and business organizations. The 5 businesses here are tenants of the space and pay rent. We have been able to start this space with some excellent business ideas. We had 29 qualified and chose 5. We want to crawl, then walk and eventually run. There is huge potential for more businesses. We used lego walls so can adjust out space.” “The Maker space was formed about a year ago. The library had to do a lot of changes to have the Maker space. We are just getting to the point where it is out

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Thunder Bay Business July 28th Contact Sonia @ 631 -4244 or Sylvia @ 629-7599 www.northsuperiorpublishing.com

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS JULY 2016

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Ontario Celebrates Energy Savings in Thunder Bay Canada Malting Co. Ltd. and Thunder Bay Hydro Team Up to Save Local Business Money Ontario Energy Minister Glenn Thibeault was in Thunder Bay today to celebrate the electricity savings at Canada Malting via their new new Combined Heat and Power (CHP) facility. With funding support from Thunder Bay Hydro, the new facility will generate electricity savings of over 15 MWh annually and will save Canada Malting approximately $960,000 in electricity costs each year. This project will help Thunder Bay Hydro and Ontario reach their electricity conservation targets. Combined Heat and Power, also known as CHP or cogeneration, uses one fuel source to generate both electricity and heat in the form of steam. The Canada Malting facility generates electricity and thermal energy simultaneously. An engine is used to drive an electric generator, and the waste heat produced by these processes is used to dry malt. Ontario encourages businesses to use conservation as the first approach to save money on their electricity bills, because it is the cleanest and least costly energy resource. The Conservation First Framework gives electricity utilities like Thunder Bay Hydro greater flexibility to design and deliver conservation programs that meet local needs, strengthen regional collaboration and benefit both customers and the provincial electricity grid. Conserving energy and creating cost savings is part of the government's economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan

includes investing in talent and skills, including helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history and investing in a lowcarbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement. QUOTES “Congratulations to Canada Malting Co. Ltd and Thunder Bay Hydro for recognizing the smart, long-term benefits of CHP as an efficient way to generate electricity and thermal energy. This CHP

facility will help Canada Malting save on their electricity costs and it will reduce demand on the local grid, conserving electricity. Saving money on energy helps local businesses thrive and keeps good jobs in Thunder Bay. “ – Glenn Thibeault, Ontario Minister of Energy “I’m always excited to support local Thunder Bay businesses that are saving money and conserving energy. Canada Malting’s new CHP facility will save the company money that they can then invest to support and expand operations and keep important jobs in Northern Ontario. The leadership shown by Thunder Bay Hydro and Canada Malting in embracing a culture of energy conservation will contribute to a greener future for all in Ontario.” – Michael Gravelle, MPP for Thunder BaySuperior North “The new CHP facility is an efficient way for Canada Malting to generate electricity and thermal energy and it will generate savings that will assist Canada Malting in remaining competitive into the future. It is great news for our community when we see partnerships like this between our local business community and Thunder Bay Hydro leading to energy and cost efficiencies. Partnerships like this one also assist the province in meeting our energy conservation goals. Congratulations to Thunder Bay Hydro and Canada Malting on this wonderful partnership that has many benefits and will serve as a model for other businesses in our community.” – Bill Mauro, MPP for Thunder Bay-Atikokan “Canada Malting is one of many great local success stories for Thunder Bay Hydro. We’re proud to see incentives

offered through Thunder Bay Hydro in conjunction with the IESO to help companies like Canada Malting stay sustainable and competitive by becoming more energy efficient.” – Robert Mace, President and CEO of Thunder Bay Hydro “Canada Malting Company’s Thunder Bay facility will cut its electrical costs by more than 60 per cent because of this project. With more than 120 customers, including some of the world’s leading brewers, the Combined Heat and Power facility will make us even more competitive in the future and grow a local operation that currently supports 54 employees in Thunder Bay.” – Jim Desaulniers, Plant Manager at Canada Malting Co. Ltd. QUICK FACTS * The CHP plant operates around the clock and displaces 1,920 kilowatts of electrical demand. * The cost of the CHP facility is offset by an Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) incentive of $2,443,190 provided by Thunder Bay Hydro. * Thunder Bay Hydro distributes electricity to over 50,000 customers via a network of over 1,300 kilometers (815 miles) of overhead and underground power lines almost the distance between Thunder Bay and Toronto. * Canada Malting is the largest malt company in Canada, producing approximately 450,000 metric tonnes of malt per year for brewers and distillers around the world— from the largest of multinational organizations to the smallest of craft brewers—as well as for food processors.

Community Groups in Northern Ontario are Beyond Good Tbaytel social giving program celebrates community impact. Thanks to Tbaytel for Good, dozens of community groups continue to positively impact local neighbourhoods across

Northern Ontario. Today, Tbaytel received progress updates from four leading community projects that have received funding through Tbaytel for Good since 2013. Ecole Gron Morgan Public School, the Save Our Songbirds Foundation, March of Dimes Canada and the Fort Frances Border Club were all finalists, each receiving $2,000 to $5,000 to fund their initiatives. “Tbaytel supports organizations who are committed to improving neighbourhoods and communities in the region we serve. Through Tbaytel for Good, we are delight-

ed to increase the impact of many important projects in support of healthier and stronger communities. To date, Tbaytel for Good has contributed over $90,000 to 30 diverse initiatives across Northern Ontario,” says Tbaytel president and CEO Dan Topatigh. “The four groups we are recognizing today are just a small sample

of all the good that is being created by Tbaytel working together with community organizations and volunteers." Tbaytel for Good called on not-for-profit organizations and community groups to submit ideas that would support strong, healthy and vibrant communities. The original yearlong initiative was broken into four seasonal campaigns with a focus on education, sports and recreation, environment and arts and culture. * March of Dimes Canada has provided 28 art sessions in the community, connecting

local artists with individuals who have disabilities. The sessions included various art forms such as murals, paints, works for garden space, as well as collaborative and individual pieces. * The Save Our Songbirds Foundation has realized a substantial difference in the operations at its bird observatory located on McKellar Island. The bird observatory received desperately needed new nets, which are the main tool used to track bird species. * Ecole Gron Morgan Public School received funding to purchase new ukuleles and glockenspiels for its music program. Since the instruments arrived, students have been learning to play, perform and even compose their own songs at the school. * The Fort Frances Border Skating Club was the 2014 grand prize recipient and was able to purchase a state-of-the-art portable sound system that gives athletes the confidence they need to compete. “The rink had a malfunctioning sound system since the ‘80s. For skaters, this wrecks their flow and shakes their confidence. Everything runs so smoothly now. The system is easy to use, sounds good. It’s just awesome. Our goal at the club is to get kids on the ice and enjoy what they’re doing. Music is such a big part of that,” says Fort Frances Border Skating Club president Kari Lemelin. “These projects are a few great examples of what we can achieve together as neighbourhoods and communities. I know this is just the beginning and that Tbaytel is com-

mitted to doing even more good today and tomorrow. Stay tuned for the launch of our enhanced community-giving program later this summer," says Topatigh. About Tbaytel: Tbaytel is dedicated to delivering telecommunication and entertainment solutions that ensure people, businesses and communities in Northern Ontario have multiple points of access to the global communications highway. Tbaytel offers the region’s largest 4G HSPA digital cellular coverage area and a state of the art LTE network with extensive products and services in many neighbourhoods that include data, voice, wireless, internet, security and digital TV. With over a century of contributing to the quality of life, infrastructure and economic health of the north, Tbaytel’s understanding and commitment to Northern Ontario is unparalleled. www.tbaytel.net Dan Topatigh “ It is always fascinating to see how our our support dollars can translate into good inside of the community . We are thrilled to have two classrooms from Ecole Gron Morgan here today to celebrate. This is core to what we do, to make sure we are giving back to organizations that are making the most impact. “ “ We look forward to continuing the program forward.”

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS JULY 2016