TBB March 2021

Ontario Takes Steps to Increase Economic Development and Job Creation in the North

INSIDE Four Follow Up Tips To Grow Your Business Aerobic Exercise: Are you in the Training Zone?

Ontario Invests in Mineral Exploration and Mining Research at Lakehead University North Superior Publishing

@tbay25

The PACKTALK Bold by Cardo Powersports Communication Device!

TBT Engineering Limited Announces New President

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS MARCH 2021

TBT Engineering Limited Announces New President on its 26th Anniversary February 1st continues to be a significant day in the evolution of Northwestern Ontario's largest independently owned engineering consulting firm. TBT Engineering Consulting Group, which was previously incorporated as Thunder Bay Testing (1995) Limited on February 1, 1995 now announces the appointment of Scott Peterson as the new President, TBT Engineering Limited.

Peterson, who previously held the position of Vice President, assumes the role of President from the company’s cofounder, Rob Frenette, effective February 1, 2021. Peterson is widely respected in the geotechnical, geological, transportation and environmental engineering community. As Vice President, he was responsible for providing technical, professional and project management services for several of the company’s core divisions. This experience coupled with the company’s current leadership team and business strategy will allow Peterson to integrate quickly into the President role. Peterson will work closely with the TBTE Senior Management team including Liana Frenette, CEO.

Says Rob Frenette, outgoing President of TBT Engineering Limited; “It’s incredible to look back at how far we’ve come together over the past 26 years. Working with such a talented and

passionate team to grow TBT Engineering has been one of the greatest achievements of my life. Today, we are an award-winning, employee— owned company that employs over 130 full time professional and technical staff in the north. I look forward to supporting the company’s continued growth under Scott’s leadership.”

Frenette will continue to maintain a strong presence within the TBT Engineering Consulting Group in his capacity as President of TBT Surveyors Inc. as well as Managing Director of all TBT Engineering Consulting Group companies.

Says Scott Peterson, “Today, TBT Engineering Limited sits at the forefront of one of the most exciting markets in our region. Thanks to the incredible vision and leadership of Rob and Liana Frenette and their entire team, TBT Engineering is a unique, Northwestern Ontario success story. I look forward to working with the team to build on the foundation that has been laid and to capture the new opportunities before us.

Together we will drive industry-leading growth that benefits employees, shareholders and communities across our region.”

TBT Engineering Limited’s primary sectors are Infrastructure, Mining, Energy, Transportation, First Nations, Government and General Public with

commercial services through sixteen complimentary divisions.

A major contributor to TBT Engineering Consulting Group’s continued growth and success has been the ongoing recognition and engagement of rights holder groups, First Nation communities and Indigenous Businesses and partnerships across Northern Ontario.

About TBT Consulting Group\ TBT Engineering Limited’s roots trace back to 1968 in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

The company was sold in 1995 to two young engineers and aspiring entrepreneurs named Rob and Liana Frenette.

They renamed their new venture Thunder Bay Testing (1995) Limited.

Thunder Bay Testing became known as Thunder Bay Testing and Engineering in 1997 and later became TBT Engineering Limited (TBTE) in 2009.

The change in 2009 cemented the fact that TBTE was no longer just a testing laboratory, and no longer served clients only in Thunder Bay. TBT Surveyors Inc. (a wholly owned subsidiary of TBT Engineering Limited) was formed to allow for the provision of Legal (Cadastral) Surveying, Geomatics and Reference Plans.

In recognition of the evolving corporate structure TBT Engineering Consulting Group was subsequently registered as a trade name for the growing commercial entity. Corporate acquisitions of Profor Engineering (Mechanical and Electrical) in 2015, followed by the acquisition of Sostratus Engineering (Structural and Civil Engineering) in 2016 and then EXP’s Fort Frances and Dryden offices (Surveying and Geomatics) in 2017 has expanded the company’s ability to provide “One Stop Shopping” for our clients throughout the region – and beyond!

www.tbte.ca

Thunder Bay Hydraulics continues to invest in Northwestern Ontario’s industrial market One of Thunder Bay’s most long-standing industrial machine shops is using the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to take a fresh look at its operations and bring new innovations to Northwestern Ontario industries.

Located on Montreal Street, in the heart of the city’s manufacturing hub, Thunder Bay Hydraulics has been providing hydraulic and pneumatic manufacturing and repair services to the industrial, forestry and mining industries since 1969.

In the height of last century’s forestry boom, Thunder Bay Hydraulics employed almost 50 skilled tradespeople to service sawmills, paper mills and lumber plants across the region. Today, the company still custom manufactures, repairs and sells hydraulic cylinders and components to the forestry sector, but it is also turning its attentions to new and emerging sectors, including the online retail market.

To lead the business’ evolution, Jamie Crozier, originally from Newmarket Ontario, was hired just over a year ago as the new General Manager.

“Over the past 15 months, the Thunder Bay Hydraulics team has come together to seriously review our business operations and processes,” said Crozier. “We knew that it was time to modernize and provide customers in the North with improved product and service options, but the onset of COVID19 really accelerated our efforts,” he said.

In 2020, Thunder Bay Hydraulics conducted market research, business opportunity studies and business planning, which has brought a number of positive changes to the company.

“We have invested in new industrial machinery, innovative technologies and hired new talent so that we can be the region’s best cylinder manufacturing and repair shop,” said Crozier. “We have also entered new sectors, offering innovative material handling and lift systems to mining, aerospace and energy sectors. From custom design and engineering to manufacturing, on site installations and repairs, we can now deliver endto-end services on any project,” he said.

In recent months, Thunder Bay Hydraulics has also ventured into the digital marketplace with an online retail product shop at www.thunderbayhydraulics.com. The company is building its ecommerce capabilities to include online sales of hydraulic and pneumatic components, as well as a selection of hospital grade cleaning supplies for commercial and industrial operations.

“We will be announcing several new product and service innovations to the Northwestern Ontario industrial market in the coming months,” explained Crozier. “We are proud to be continually evolving to meet the changing needs of our regional economy, while remaining true to our roots as Thunder Bay’s best cylinder supplier and repair shop.”

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS MARCH 2021

Publisher’s Note Scott Sumner

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Aerobic Exercise: Are you in the Training Zone?

Basically your health is a central factor of how you feel each day. Besides your mind and how you think, it is the next most important area of life. We hear so often the phrase "If you don't have your health what do you have." This is an extremely true statement. You can have all the money you'd ever want but if your body is injured, or you constantly feel fatigued like a drained battery, it's impossible to find fun in life.

In the last years, I've invested countless hours thinking, reading, and obtaining help with my own health. One can assemble a great team of health consultants to address basic requirements. There are many skilled professionals who can help you achieve optimal health. These can range from your family doctor, to personal trainers, to massage therapists, to certified dietician and to physiotherapists. The list can go on depending on your circumstances, but these five would form a great start for anyone.

The overriding fact I learned in health is that even with all the help from people, there is only one person who can make a major difference in your personal health.

YOU! You have to make it happen because no one will eat for you, or exercise for you or get the proper rest for you.

They will assist you, but at the end of the day YOU! must do what has to be done.

Many years ago I had a physiotherapist design a fitness program for me. He not only prescribed a personal exercise plan, but actually attended each session for 12 times to help me form the habit of wanting to do it. Fitness training always requires numerous sessions before the benefits and the results become measurable, and only then do you become self motivated to want to go yourself. Remember YOU are the only one who can exercise your body. A personal trainer can encourage but you control you muscles.

Cardiovascular training occurs when your heart activity level gets into the TRAINING ZONE. What's that you ask? Its when your heart beats fast enough to make it as a muscle improve. At rest our heart doesn't have to work to it's full capacity. In essence it can coast, and when it coasts it doesn't improve. If you are doing something more strenuous your heart will pump harder, resulting in a capacity gain and a strength gain. You can tell whether you in the training zone by subtracting your age from 220 and then taking 60- 75 % of the level. Next measure your heart beats to determine whether your heart beat is in your training zone. For example, if you are 40 years old subtract 220 - 40 = 180. Take

60 to 75 of this or 108 to 135. Take your pulse at your wrist and measure the number of beats in 10 seconds and multiply by 6. If you count 20 x 6 or 120 you know you are in the training zone, and are getting great benefits for your heart and lungs.

You are using 67% of your heart's capacity.

So how do you get your heart rate up?

Basically you have to get moving. My favorite exercise has always been the Stairmaster. This program simulates stair climbing which you can make easier or harder depending on the resistance level on the machine. Also, the time duration is important. Standard thinking suggests that getting you heart beat elevated for at least 20 minutes for three times per week is a minimal level for cardio vascular fitness.

My feel is if you could aim for 30 minutes, 4 times per week all the better. However, every person is different, and your current level of fitness has a big impact on this.

Other forms of cardiovascular activity includes the tread mill which allows you to walk inside, the stationary bike , the skiing machine, and an endless variety of other physical enhancement machines. The outdoors should also be an option. Brisk walking, running, bicycling and so on are great. You must remember to get into the TRAINING ZONE. So check you heart

rate before you start, as well as during your fitness activity. A cardiovascular activity level coupled with good diet will balance your body to its desired weight.

Your body wants to be efficient and not carry extra fat or weight. This type of activity will let it operate the way it should and YOU WILL FEEL BETTER! About The Author: Scott Sumner grew up in Northwestern Ontario Canada and is a graduate of Lakehead University's ( Thunder Bay, Ontario Canada ) Honour Bachelor of Commerce Program as well as York University's ( Toronto, Ontario Canada ) Master of Business Program. He founded North Superior Publishing Inc, a regional specialty publishing company many years ago in 1983. This company has published 10 titles in the areas of real estate, business, lifestyle, travel, golf, snowmobiling, automotive and family. His book Create An Exceptional Life: Mind, Body, Money can help you look at ways to accomplish more in your life that you ever thought possible. It will start you on a process of living your life to it's fullest potential.

Visit www.scottsumner.com

What is Inflammation and Do We Need It? Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or damage to living tissue by infection. There are two types of inflammation, acute (short term) and chronic (long term). We are all familiar with the acute inflammatory process when we twist an ankle or cut our finger. The four cardinal signs of inflammation include: redness, heat, swelling and pain (Latin rubor, calor, tumor, dolor). The redness is caused be a dilation of small blood vessels surrounding the injured area. Heat is from increased blood flow, swelling is due to the accumulation of other fluids outside of the blood vessels while the pain is due to the increased pressure on the surrounding tissues from the swelling. There are then a host of various

physiological reactions that create an immune response to fight infection and protect the damaged area. This is then followed by tissue repair. The reason that we get a fever or our entire body aches when we have a severe viral infection is due to the inflammatory process working properly.

Concern comes when inflammation becomes chronic.

Many common diseases are either due to or are made worse by chronic inflammation. Unlike acute inflammation, which is often a dramatic and painful experience, chronic inflammation has a lower grade response which may or may not be painful. But because it is constant and of long duration (month and years) it can cause significant damage to the body.

Inflammatory cells that stay too long in the blood vessels promote plaque build-up (atherosclerosis). These plaques can break up creating blood clots, triggering heart attacks and strokes. Chronic inflammation can also cause DNA damage which leads to some cancers. Lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity (especially belly fat) also cause increased inflammatory responses.

The reactive response to inflammation is to take anti-inflammatory drugs. Over-thecounter medications such as naproxen (Aleve) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can be effective for short term use. But these drugs were not designed for chronic longterm use. These medications often can cause serious side effects such as bleeding ulcers. For that reason, most people on these medications must also take other drugs to protect their stomach linings from damage.

There are more natural and wholistic

approaches to the issues of chronic inflammation. We now know that there are foods that can significantly decrease inflammation as well as certain foods that will increase that process. The main regulator of inflammation in the body is expressed through hormones called prostaglandins. PG1 and PG3 will decrease inflammation in the body while PG2 will increase inflammation in the body. Foods that either promote PG1 and PG3 or suppress PG2 are considered to have anti-inflammatory effects. These foods would include: kale, spinach, onions, garlic, carrots, berries, cantaloupe, pink grapefruit, whole grains like brown rice, bulgur wheat, lentils, kidney beans, almonds, walnuts, salmon, trout, herring, mackerel, Albacore tuna, sardines, anchovies, curry, ginger, turmeric, limited amounts of dark chocolate and red wine, olive oil, canola oil, flaxseed oil. Foods that will increase PG2 will increase inflammation in the body and should be avoided as much as possible.

They include: animal fats, red meat, lard, alcohol, pastries, sugar, white flour, candy, corn oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil, margarine (these oils can be converted to PG1 foods if you supplement with vitamins E, B’s, K, zinc, magnesium).

Exercise also helps reduce the inflammatory process. Movement of muscles and joints promotes release of specific hormones that reduce inflammation. Body movement also help to reduce edema and swelling.

The problem of chronic inflammation is not always easy to resolve. However, with a better understanding now of how if promotes

many chronic diseases and how lifestyle changes can make a significant impact, it gives yet another motivating reason to improve our diets and become more active.

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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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS MARCH 2021

Four Follow Up Tips To Grow Your Business The Sales Manager didn’t hesitate when I asked her, “What’s one thing you think your team members could do more of to enhance their success with customers?”

Her immediate response: “Follow-up.”

Working with sales and service teams for over 25 years and observing the practices of the most successful team members, I’ve found this to be true. We often get so caught up in responding to customers and prospects, or hunting for new business, we neglect to pro-actively follow-up as thoroughly or consistently as we should. Ironically, following-up is one of the easiest and highest payoff activities we can do to grow our business. Often we don’t follow-up because we’re afraid of hearing a no. Other times we can’t think of a good excuse to stay in touch. Here are 4 tips I share in my seminars that will make follow up easier and more lucrative.

ple. Chances are they have lots on their plate and they may have been inadvertently putting your proposal on the back burner. They may already have you on their to-do list to contact for the next step. So, remember you’re not interrupting customers by following up; you’re

That’s why following-up electronically with an email or text will often get you a faster, more honest response. When sending an email, it’s still important to not come across as pushy. So state in your subject line that this is a “Courtesy Follow-up.” It reminds them that you

being courteous and doing them a favour.

1. Customers Want Follow-up

If you’ve given the customer a price or proposal, they may have unfortunately opted to go with your competitor. So, they might not be receptive to your phone call because they’re afraid you may not take rejection well. Or that you’ll try to talk them out of their decision. That’s awkward for everyone.

are being conscientious and thorough.

That builds trust. In the body of your message don’t just ask whether the person has taken some action or made a decision. That can sound blunt; almost like an accusation. Instead, ask if they’ve had a chance yet to take action.

That wording comes across polite and empathetic.

Often sales reps are concerned that following-up with a potential customer after the first contact will come across as pushy. Keep in mind that customers responsible for making buying decisions are by definition, busy, successful peo-

2. Electronic is Easy

3. Be Better at Losing If it turns out that the potential customer

has indeed gone ahead with another supplier, then epitomize graciousness. In an upbeat tone let them that you’re pleased they are moving forward with their plans. If you know and respect the successful competitor, then mention that you’ve heard good things about that company. Here’s the kicker – finish by stating that if for any reason the other company isn’t able to deliver, or if the customer would like a backup in case of unforeseen issues, then to please keep you in mind. There are lots of reasons why customers choose different suppliers midstream. Being proactive, professional, and positive – even while not receiving the business -positions you at the top of the backup list when they decide to switch suppliers. You have nothing to lose by being gracious and everything to gain.

4. Out of sight – out of mind Just because you did some business one time with a customer doesn’t necessarily mean they think of you or remember you. In reality, customers are more focused on their own businesses than they are on their suppliers. That’s why it’s so important to stay in contact.

Forget the conventional ‘just checking in’ time wasters. Instead, provide them with regular tips that can help them to achieve their goals. You can do this via email, social media, or organizing professional development events for your customers and their team members. Add in some food, call it a lunch and learn, and they will remember you.

Bottom line – Interacting one time with a customer or prospect doesn’t mean you have a relationship. It means you had a transaction. Following-up proactively and regularly helps transform a transaction into a relationship. It proves you remember that person and are organized enough to stay in touch. That builds trust – a critical step towards positioning you as their Trusted Advisor.

Jeff Mowatt is a customer service strategist, Hall of Fame speaker, and bestselling author. For more tips, training tools or to inquire about engaging Jeff for your team visit www.JeffMowatt.com

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New public transit investments to build strong communities, fight climate change, and create new jobs across Canada Investing in public transit infrastructure shortens commute times for families, creates good middle class jobs, grows our economy, and cuts air pollution. Since 2015, the Government of Canada has invested more than $13 billion in 1,300 public transit projects for communities across Canada. This is the largest public transit investment in Canadian history, and as we build back better from the global COVID-19 pandemic, we will continue to make these smart investments that support Canadians.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced $14.9 billion for public transit projects over the next eight years, which includes permanent funding of $3 billion per year for Canadian communities beginning in 2026-27. This announcement provides cities and communities the predictable transit funding they need to plan for the future, and is part of our plan to create one million jobs, fight climate change, and rebuild a more sustainable and resilient economy. These investments will: • Help Canadians move around easier and create new jobs by building major public transit projects, providing dedicated planning funding to accelerate future major projects, and supporting the expansion of large urban transit systems that many Canadians depend on every day.

• Reduce pollution and create jobs for Canadians by enhancing public transit systems and switching them to cleaner electrical power, including supporting the use of zero-emission vehicles and related infrastructure, complementing the work of the Canada Infrastructure Bank.

• Support healthy lifestyles in our communities and meet the growing demand for active transportation projects, including by building walkways and paths for cycling, walking, scooters, e-bikes, and wheelchairs.

• Help Canadians living in rural and remote areas travel to and from work more easily and access essential services, by working with rural, remote, and Indigenous communities to identify and create transit solutions that meet their needs.

• Support our cities and communities by making a permanent and stable federal commitment to funding public transit, and facilitate partnerships between all orders of government, Indigenous communities, transit agencies, and other stakeholders to develop an approach to permanent public transit funding in a manner that offers the greatest benefits to Canadians.

Investing in public transit infrastructure will build strong communities across the country and deliver a better quality of life for all Canadians. The government will continue to invest in projects that best support our recovery, create middle class jobs and economic growth, and help us reach our climate targets. Together, we can create a Canada that is cleaner, more competitive, and more resilient for generations to come.

Quotes "When we invest in public transit infrastructure, we are supporting good middle class jobs, creating better commutes, fighting climate change, and helping make life easier and more affordable for Canadians.

We will continue to do what it takes to ensure our economic recovery from COVID-19 and build back a more resilient country for everyone."

—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada "As we build back better, it is time to ambitiously invest in modern and sustainable public transit across our country, to reduce congestion, to help create a million jobs, and to support cleaner and more inclusive communities. Permanent, long-term funding for public transit will mean new subway lines, light-rail transit and streetcars, electric buses, cycling paths and improved rural transit. It will mean that Canadians can get around in faster, cleaner, and more affordable ways. And it will help drive us to netzero emissions and ensure a more sustain-

Next Issue: Thunder Bay Business Main Topic Transportation Ad Copy Deadline March 22,2021 Contact Sylvia @807-629-7095 www.thunderbaybusiness.ca

able future for our kids."

—The Hon. Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities "Our government is committed to investing in public transit in communities across the country. We are working in collaboration with municipal, provincial and territorial governments to support Canadians in building a strong economy and clean environment."

—The Hon. Dominic LeBlanc, President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs "Investing in cleaner and more affordable modes of transportation is an important part

of Canada's strengthened climate plan – one that means we will exceed our 2030 target and that will put us on a path to get to net-zero emissions by 2050.

Transportation accounts for one-quarter of Canada's emissions and represents an area that is in need of smart climate investments, like the ones that we have announced today, to support good Canadian jobs, a stronger economy, and a healthier planet."

—The Hon. Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Environment and Climate Change

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Ontario Invests in Mineral Exploration and Mining The Ontario government is providing more than $690,000 to help support research and development in mineral exploration and mining at Lakehead University. The funding will support a new industrial research chair and the creation of nine new jobs in Thunder Bay. This investment could eventually lead to the discovery of new mineral resources in Northern Ontario.

"Investing in job creation and research and development at Lakehead University will help drive new solutions and support our government's commitment to grow the province's mineral exploration and

prospecting industry," said Greg Rickford, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines. "Through this project, we have the potential to attract new investments into the region and drive more economic opportunities here in Northwestern Ontario."

Dr. Peter Hollings, the current chair of Lakehead University's Department of Geology, will be named the new Industrial Research Chair in Mineral Exploration. Dr. Hollings and his team will work with Impala Canada and their geology team to analyze nickel, copper and platinum group elements and the associated geological attributes near the Lac Des Iles mine and

Top:Dr. Moira McPherson, President and Vice Chancellor, Lakehead University Bottom:Tim Hill, Chief Executive Officer, Impala Canada the surrounding area. The results will lead strategic minerals, potentially reducing the to new analytical models that will accelerdevelopment time of new mine sites. ate the exploration and mining of these Continued

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Ontario Invests in Mineral Exploration and Mining Continued "Lakehead University wishes to thank the Province, Impala Canada, and the

at Lakehead University. We are providing unparalleled access to the geological database at our Lac Des Iles Mine and regional exploration properties ?

based geoscientific projects. We are confident this collaborative research will greatly enhance the potential for discovery of new mineral resources and have a significant impact on future growth and investment in the Thunder Bay mining district. Together, we hope to unlock nickel, copper and platinum group metals that are essential for the world's transition to green energy."

Funding is being delivered through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC). The corporation promotes economic prosperity across Northern Ontario by providing financial assistance to projects - big and small, rural and urban - that stimulate recovery, growth, job creation and skills development. Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $262 million in 2,549 projects in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $1.1 billion in investment and creating or sustaining 4,771 jobs.

Greg Rickford, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines

Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) for their support for the establishment of an Industrial Research Chair in Mineral Exploration," said Dr. Moira McPherson, President and Vice Chancellor, Lakehead University. "Dr. Peter Hollings' research program will focus on the development of innovative new techniques that can be used to enhance the mineral exploration industry's ability to discover new mines. The mines that will supply the raw materials required for the technologies that power a modern economy."

"Exploration is the lifeline of the mining industry, and finding new, economically viable mineral deposits opens the door to generations of jobs, investment and community development opportunities," said Tim Hill, Chief Executive Officer, Impala Canada. "Together with the Government of Ontario, we are proud to invest in this industrial research chair and partner in the worldclass research led by Dr. Peter Hollings

a database that is several orders of magnitude greater than most academic-

Quick Facts • The Ontario government is set to launch a new and improved NOHFC program that will

support more projects in rural northern communities and make it easier for more people and businesses to apply.

The program will target both existing and emerging markets, provide more work opportunities for Indigenous people and address the skilled labour shortage in the north.

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Culinary Students Brave the Cold to Learn from the Land – Second-year Culinary Management students at Confederation College braved the cold on Thursday to learn from the land in an ice fishing field trip. With the Culinary program built on a foundation of honoring and incorporating local products and cooking methods, the excursion provided a unique opportunity for students to experience first-hand a “lake-to-table” process. Catching their own fresh fish, students will later fillet their catch and cook a dish highlighting regional flavours.

“As an avid and year-round angler, I wanted to share my passion for fishing with my students,” said Ken Veneruz, Program Coordinator. “We teach our students about food sustainability and the importance of using local products so this was a creative and engaging way to help them gain hands-on experience with both of those concepts. The trip also sup-

Above– Manpreet Kour, Barath Sai Nair, Jasdeep Kaur, Ramanpreet Kaur

ports our integrated Indigenous Learning Outcomes by immersing students in the impressive natural surroundings of northwestern Ontario and ensuring they gain an understanding of the crucial role they must play in protecting and appreciating our natural resources.”

In collaboration with Bear Trak Outfitters, students were equipped with fishing gear and transported to ice huts on Lake Superior with COVID-19 safety practices in place. For many of the 19 students who participated, Thursday’s event represented their first ice fishing experience. New to the task or not, all students were excited to hit the lake and connect with nature.

“As someone from northern Ontario, I’ve had the privilege of going ice fishing before, but a lot of my fellow students are international and have been really excited to try this for the first time,” said student Jared Davis. “It’s definitely a Canadian experience, which I know is something they look for when they’ve decided to travel so far for their education.”

Davis appreciates that the Culinary Management program not only brings people from across the globe to Canada, but also that it has introduced him to a wide array of cuisines, transporting him to new places himself. “I think it’s pretty cool that in our program, we get to see different cooking styles from all different parts of the world and I’m happy that our own region is included in that,” he said. “One of my favourite things about my culinary training is seeing a raw product through from start to finish.

Getting out in nature and being able to see the fish come out of the water, and then being able to turn it into something completely different with the preparation of a dish, is really amazing.”

To learn more about the Culinary Management program and to apply, visit www.confederationcollege.ca/culinary.

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Resolute Reports Preliminary Fourth Quarter and 2020 Results Telbec/ - Resolute Forest Products Inc. (NYSE: RFP) (TSX: RFP) recently reported a net loss for the quarter ended December 31, 2020, of $52 million, or $0.63 per share, compared to a net loss of $71 million, or $0.79 per share, in the same period in 2019. Sales were $769 million in the quarter, an increase of $101 million from the year-ago period.

Excluding special items, the company reported net income of $45 million, or $0.55 per diluted share, compared to a net loss of $53 million, or $0.59 per share, in the fourth quarter of 2019.

For the year, the company reported GAAP net income of $10 million, or $0.12 per diluted share, compared to a net loss of $47 million, or $0.51 per share, in 2019.

Sales were $2.8 billion, down by 4% from the previous year. Excluding special items, the company reported net income of $56 million, or $0.65 per diluted share, compared to a net loss of $46 million, or $0.50 per share, in 2019.

"We're pleased with the performance of our wood products segment and its ability to drive bottom-line impact from strong end-markets like what we've seen in the second half of 2020 with the rebound in U.S. housing starts and robust demand for repair and remodeling activity," said Yves Laflamme, president and chief executive officer. "The strong pricing for lumber and a release of working capital allowed us to generate almost $160 million of cash

from operations in the quarter and helped to make up for challenging conditions in our pulp and paper segments, which are still recovering from the economic effects of the pandemic. Last quarter we took advantage of our strong financial performance to repurchase an additional 2.1 million shares of our common stock, for a total of 8% this year, and we recently refinanced our $375 million of outstanding 5.875% notes due 2023 with $300 million in new 4.875% notes due 2026 on very favorable terms and conditions."

Non-GAAP financial measures, such as adjustments for special items and adjusted EBITDA, are explained and reconciled below.

Operating Income Variance Against Prior Period Consolidated The company reported operating income of $4 million in the quarter, compared to $97 million in the third quarter. The quarterly results reflect a sequential increase in shipments ($14 million), mostly paper, offset by an increase in costs ($23 million) due to higher maintenance and log costs and lower internal power generation, as well as the impact of the stronger Canadian dollar ($8 million). The lower operating income includes non-cash charges related to the temporary idling of the Baie-Comeau and Amos, Quebec, newsprint mills ($80 million) in response

to the effects of the pandemic. The operating income also includes a credit of $10 million under the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy ("CEWS") program, based on the significant drop in revenues in the company's pulp and paper segments through the end of October. The CEWS support partially offset the costs associated with keeping the two mills in "hot idle" mode.

For all of 2020, the company generated operating income of $99 million, an $82 million improvement over 2019. It reflects the favorable impact of the increase in market prices in the wood products segment ($239 million) and tissue segment ($10 million), the added contribution from the 2020 acquired U.S. sawmills ($45 million), an overall reduction in manufacturing costs ($84 million), including lower maintenance and energy costs, the fourth quarter CEWS credit, dispute settlements and other items, as well as the favorable impact of the weaker Canadian dollar ($15 million). The operating income variance also reflects the unfavorable effect of lower pulp and paper pricing ($219 million), lower paper shipments ($75 million) and the net unfavorable impact of charges and assets disposition gains related to newsprint capacity reduction initiatives ($26 million).

ty papers segments have been combined into one paper segment. Comparative information, including the information in this earnings release, has been modified to conform with the revised segment presentation.

Market Pulp The market pulp segment recorded an operating loss of $4 million in the fourth quarter, unchanged from the previous quarter. The average transaction price improved by only $3 per metric ton, but shipments rose by 11,000 metric tons. The operating cost per unit (the "delivered cost") rose by $2 per metric ton and finished goods inventory fell to 53,000 metric tons by year-end, a historical low. EBITDA in the segment was unchanged at $2 million.

For 2020, the market pulp segment reported an operating loss of $1 million, compared to operating income of $39 million in 2019. The change reflects lower pricing across all pulp grades, down on average $92 per metric ton, and a 38,000 metric ton reduction in shipments, primarily due to pandemic-induced market downtime for recycled bleached kraft pulp. On the other hand, the delivered cost fell by $57 per metric ton, with lower maintenance costs and less spending. EBITDA in the segment was $23 million for the year.

Segment Operating Income Variance As of the second quarter 2020, the company's results from the newsprint and special-

Province launches renewed Northern Ontario Heritage Fund to build stronger communities The Ontario government is launching new and improved Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) programs to help increase economic development and promote job creation in the North. The four new programs will target existing and emerging markets, support more projects in small rural communities, address the skilled labour shortage and make it easier for more people and businesses to apply.

"Our government took every opportunity to engage with northern municipal leaders,

local economies by making targeted investments in northern businesses, community organizations and municipalities bringing good jobs and prosperity to every corner of Northern Ontario."

The following new programs begin today and replace the NOHFC's existing programs: The Community Enhancement Program will facilitate upgrades and repairs to vital community assets, such as recreational facilities, community centres and broad-

of communities The Invest North Program will boost economic growth and attract more investment to the North by supporting business development and expansion, as well as research and commercialization of new technologies The People and Talent Program will attract, develop, and retain a strong northern workforce by supporting a broader range of internships and apprenticeships and providing more opportunities for Indigenous people to gain job experience "These exciting new programs will improve and simplify funding delivery to communities and businesses across Northern Ontario," said Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing. "As we work together to recover as a province from the effects of COVID-19, new and improved supports for infrastructure, culture, economic development and training will ensure that our North thrives and emerges stronger than ever before."

Indigenous partners, non-profits and businesses to seek feedback on how we can modernize NOHFC programs and better respond to the unique needs of the North," said Greg Rickford, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and MPP for Kenora-Rainy River. "Our new programming will streamline the application process and help build strong and resilient

band infrastructure that contribute to improved quality of life and support strategic economic development initiatives The Cultural Supports Program will promote and showcase Northern Ontario's culture, geography, and talent through the production of films and television series and by supporting events, such as conferences and festivals that elevate the profile

"It's great to see the reopening of funding applications to the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation," said Ross Romano, MPP for Sault Ste. Marie. "The NOHFC has played a critical role in helping many businesses in Northern Ontario adapt and recover from the COVID-19 outbreak. Businesses in Sault Ste. Marie have shown incredible community spirit and resilience but are eager to get back to work. Opening up applications again will help our businesses continue to diversify and grow our local economy."

"The NOHFC programs have always been a great support to northern businesses," said Norm Miller, MPP for Parry Sound-

Muskoka. "However, I have often heard about difficulties accessing them due to the onerous application process. The changes announced today directly address this concern and will greatly assist businesses and communities in Northern Ontario moving forward. I am particularly pleased to see attention being given to broadband infrastructure, job training and apprenticeships."

Since June 2018, the NOHFC has invested more than $262 million in 2,549 projects

in Northern Ontario, leveraging more than $1.1 billion in investment and creating or sustaining 4,771 jobs. A running list of projects that received NOHFC funding can be found on the corporation's website.

Quick Facts The NOHFC is a board-governed agency of the Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines with a mandate to promote economic prosperity across Northern Ontario by providing financial assistance to projects big and small, rural and urban.

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS MARCH 2021

Not So Small Anymore © 2021 Brian Babcock Small claims are not so small any more.

Small Claims Courts are the busiest branch of the Ontario Superior Courts, and are a significant point of contact between ordinary Ontarians and the

Legal Matters judicial system. With the increase of the monetary limit of the court to $35,000.00, both the volume of claims and size will increase substantially once things return to normal post pandemic.

The sheer volume of claims ought to

have already demanded a modern approach to document management. But this sadly was not the case. Modern technology is costly, and governments are under pressure to cut costs, not increase them. Small claims court always seems to be the last in line for resources.

Some steps had been taken before the pandemic, such as online filing of claims. Though the courts have severely limited operations since March 2020 – in small claims, other than urgent matters and assessments in writing of uncontested claims, only online settlement conferences are taking place- as in other areas of the legal system about which I gave written before, there has recently been significant steps to beginning to bring the court into the 21st cen-

tury.

Recent announcements include that effective March 1, 2021: · you may have any document that needs to be issued by the court issued electronically · most other documents required for filing can be filed electronically · court staff will communicate with users via email when possible · electronic signatures are okay · service of some documents by email is permitted- most documents other than the claim. · Procedure for the remote swearing of affidavits are aligned with changes in other courts. This should reduce the need for in person attendances.

have the settlement conference judge make a final determination of certain claims without a trial. This provides a form of judicial alternative dispute resolution which has considerable cost and time saving potential, and it will be exciting to see whether parties take advantage of this option.

As in all courts, we expect that as operations return to normal after the pandemic, we will continue to use remote hearing technology extensively.

Together with the new changes just coming into force, this should result in less delay, and cost savings for you if you become involved in a small claims matter.

Parties may also, on consent, agree to

Marten Falls First Nation and Webequie First Nation Select SNC Lavalin and Dillon Consulting to Conduct Environmental Assessment for the Northern Road Marten Falls First Nation and Webequie First Nation are taking the necessary next steps to study the potential for road infrastructure development in Ontario’s remote north. The two First Nations today announced that SNC-Lavalin and Dillon Consulting has been selected to complete an Environmental Assessment on a proposed all-season road that will link the two remote First Nations and connect to emerging mining sites in the Ring of Fire area.

Says Chief Cornelius Wabasse of Webequie First Nation; “Following a competitive RFP process, our First Nations have awarded the contract for the Northern Road Link’s Environmental Assessment to SNCLavalin and Dillon Consulting. The proposed Northern Road Link is a highly sensitive project that requires the most rigorous studies related to environmental, water, climate change, and cumulative effects. Given their previous studies done in Ontario Far

North, SNC-Lavalin and Dillon Consulting are familiar with community principles when it comes to economic development, and we look forward to working collaboratively to generate the EA information to make an informed decision.”

An agreement was announced in March 2020 between Marten Falls and Webequie First Nations and the Ontario government to proceed with the planning and development of the Northern Road Link. The proposed infrastructure project is considered to be critical to future economic development in the north.

Says Chief Bruce Achneepineskum of Marten Falls First Nation; “This road is an economic lifeline for our communities and it will bring jobs, training and prosperity where our youth currently have no opportunities. Our communities are also committed to a community directed process that responsibly studies the impacts and opportunities for road development in our traditional territory. The Environmental Assessment is essential to our community-decision making. Without understanding the potential environmental and other implications of a northern road, we won’t be able to make informed decisions about the future of our lands. We look forward to working with SNC-Lavalin and Dillon Consulting to collect and study the information we need to make the best decisions.”

The Environmental Assessment Report will be completed to meet both the Federal and Provincial environmental assessment requirements under a coordinated process pursuant to the Impact Assessment Act and Ontario Environmental Assessment Act. It is anticipated that the Environmental Assessment studies will take at least 3 years to complete.

About SNC-Lavalin Founded in 1911, SNC-Lavalin is a fully integrated professional services and project management company with offices around the world. SNC-Lavalin connects people, technology and data to help shape and deliver world-leading concepts and projects, while offering comprehensive innovative solutions across the asset lifecycle. Our expertise is wide-ranging — consulting & advisory, intelligent networks & cybersecurity, design & engineering, procurement, project & construction management, operations & maintenance, decommissioning and sustaining capital – and delivered to clients in four strategic sectors: EDPM (engineering, design and project management), Infrastructure, Nuclear and Resources, supported by Capital.

People. Drive. Results. News and information are available at www.snclavalin.com or follow us on Twitter @SNCLavalin About Dillon Consulting Dillon is a proudly Canadian, employee-owned professional consulting firm with over 900 employees specializing in planning, engineering, environmental science and management. We partner with clients to provide collaborative and inventive solutions to complex, multi-faceted projects.

With 20 offices throughout Canada, Dillon is founded on the knowledge, passion and relentless pursuit of the best solution for our clients, and the communities in which we work and live. Since being founded in 1946 in London, Ontario, we have never stopped innovating, growing, building and leading towards a better tomorrow.

Our combination of local knowledge, insightful solutions and the importance we place on collaboration and partnership is what differentiates us.

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS MARCH 2021

PAGE 11

The PACKTALK Bold by Cardo Powersports Communication Device!

BY SCOTT A. SUMNER

Thunder Bay BUSINESS My favourite sports activity in the winter is definitely snowmobiling! There is just something about being out in the fresh, crisp, clean, white snow breathing fresh air- especially on a brilliant sunny day. It’s fun being out there on an adventure with your fellow snowmobiling friends!

in the right direction!

The Cardo company has been developing bluetooth headpieces for early cellphones from 2003 with unique wind suppressing technology. The eureka moment for the company was when they decided to place the unit inside a sturdy waterproof shell and attach it to a helmet.

Today Cardo has partnered with JBL to create an ultimate listening experience.

The Packtalk Bold can be used while snowmobiling with a unit to unit range of 1.6 km and an overall range of 8 km.The units have an all new, always on, natural voice operation feature which means you only have to say hey Cardo and you can begin communicating with your hands still on the handlebars.

A new product innovation that has been developing over the years is a helmet to helmet communication device that allows you to easily speak to your friends even while riding.This is fun and also a good safety feature to keep your group heading

You can connect up to 15riders as well as to any Bluetooth headset and stream music from your smart phone. The system allows you to answer calls,make calls and control your mobile device.There is also built in FM radio! The sound level is adjusted automatically based on outside noise.You can share your playlist. You can choose to chat with only one member of your group.

The battery will allow for13 hours of talk time.

In the box you get Packtalk Bold,40MM Speakers by JBL,the Packtalk Audio Kit

with corded microphone and hybrid microphone and a USB cable etc The whole package retails for about $340.00 US and will be shipped to Canada.

It was fun trying this communication system on the trails and willimprove your riding experience!

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS MARCH 2021