Business November 2015 by Scott Sumner

“Architecture is an Economic Driver”

INSIDE It’s Two for Two for Habitat for Humanity on World Habitat Day Victims of child abuse ask adults to put themselves in their shoes and Step UP. Remember North Superior Publishing @tbay25

Lakehead names new Legacy Society in honor of William G. Tamblyn

JUSTIN TRUDEAU MAKES AN IMPRESSION ON THUNDER BAY

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2015

Lakehead names new Legacy Society in honour of William G. Tamblyn Lakehead University is naming its new Legacy Society in honour of William G. Tamblyn, the University’s founding President and Vice-Chancellor. The William G. Tamblyn Legacy Society allows Lakehead to recognize its donors and stewards, and recruit and sustain donor commitment. “As Lakehead’s first President, William Tamblyn set the University’s vision and direction through his leadership,” said Dr. Brian Stevenson, Lakehead’s President and Vice-Chancellor.

“We value his contribution and dedication to Lakehead University over the years,” Dr. Stevenson said. Dr. Stevenson made the announcement at a reception on Friday, Oct. 2. Tamblyn was also the Chair of Lakehead’s Board of Governors. He received the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Medal in 1978; an honorary degree from Lakehead University in 1981; Lakehead named him a Fellow of the University in 1984; and he was awarded the Order of Ontario in 1993. Lake Tamblyn and the Centennial Building Dr. Brian Stevenson, Lakehead President and Vice-Chancellor, Marguerite Tamblyn are named in his honor. “On behalf of the Tamblyn family, I am honoured to have the Legacy Society named in memory of my father. We are all very proud of the long affiliation our family has had with the University and delighted this association will be extended through the establishment of the Legacy Society,” said David G. Tamblyn, William’s son. “Prior to my father being appointed President and Vice-Chancellor in 1965, he was originally appointed to the Advisory Committee of Lakehead Technical Institute in 1953. Among several prominent members of this committee, he actively pursued a vision to create a university to serve the needs of Northwestern Ontario. From the

humble beginnings of the Lakehead Technical Institute, Lakehead University has grown into a full-fledged post-secondary institution offering a range of exceptional programs to draw students not only from across Ontario but from around the globe. “We can all take pride in what has been accomplished in the last 50 years and the promise of greater things to come. It is my sincere hope the Legacy Society will become an integral part of that future development,” David G. Tamblyn said. The William G. Tamblyn Legacy Society will honour all alumni, staff, faculty and friends of Lakehead who share Dr. Tamblyn’s vision and commitment to the University.

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2015

Publisher’s Note Scott Sumner It was about 6 years ago when I had the opportunity to interview a newly elected MP with a famous name, Justin Trudeau. On a cool overcast Saturday night in Thunder Bay Justin Trudeau made another, much briefer stop at the airport, just a few days before the historic federal election that saw him become elected as Prime Minister of Canada. The mood at the airport seemed electric to me with the about 700 people in total there to support of Justin Trudeau. The election results seem to prove this excitement was widespread in Canada and we now have new government with many new faces in parliament including three in our area. Patty Hajdu, Thunder Bay Superior North, Don Rusnak, Thunder Bay Atikokan and Bob Nault Kenora. These were my questions of Justin Trudeau 6 years ago which are interesting today in 2015! What is your message? “ The core message is we all have a responsibility to step up and hit the ball. If we sit back and wait for the world to change for us it is never going to happen.

We have so many tools in terms of resources and knowledge at our disposal here in Canada to reach out and make a difference here and around the world. We

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JUSTIN TRUDEAU MAKES AN IMPRESSION ON THUNDER BAY

have to start living up to our responsibility.” What are your impressions of newly elected President Barrack Obama? “ His great strength is his capacity to mobilize people, to get people to believe in their possibilities if they all work together. First of all getting out to vote for him allowed a huge change in the US. Now the

tasks that Americans are faced with in terms economics and society are going to require everyone to put their shoulder to the wheel. If anyone can do it he can.” How can we improve our economy in Canada? “The first investment should be in innovation- creating values and opportunity for people to contribute. We have a resource based economy that started with furs, forests and fish. Then we had the industrial revolution and now we are falling back on our natural resources- our mines, our forests and fossil fuels for our wealth. Instead of saying it had to be one or the other we need to take the natural resources and add our greatest resource with is Canadians themselves. Our ability to dream, think and create solutions based on the physical resources we have is important. That requires investment in R and D, education and skills development that we are not quite doing.” What made you get into politics at the time of your life? “To my mind politics was always a distant possibility. I would say there are so many other ways of making a difference like teaching, advocacy, speaking - all the things I was doing. I was pretty good at it. Having as big a name as Trudeau with all the pluses and minuses, I had to make sure I have demonstrated outside of politics a capacity to deliver and have a certain level

of success on my CV. Originally politics was something for when I was 50 or much older. But then I realized the connection I have with people as a teacher and activist, politics offered me another opportunity by going into politics at the ground floor and proving myself every step of the way including a hard nomination and winning back a difficult seat from the Bloc Quebecois. I am there only to represent my constituents and learn about politics from the ground up with no expectations except being a young person in politics. When I realized that it became a lot more possible.” How are you enjoying being a MP? “ The reality is I love it. It was what I thought it would be, what I hoped it would be. It is every bit as much work as I knew it was going to be which is really difficult because every week when I get home from a few days in Ottawa and see my family, my wife greets me the look I know so well. I ask myself is it still worth it to be away from your two babies for so much time. I have to ask myself that question every single day and the day I can’t answer that is the day I leave politics and go back to teaching. I do know absolutely what I am doing now is totally worth it however difficult it is on the family side of it. I will continue to make a difference even as I did when I was a high school teacher with whatever tools I get my hands on. I have been focusing on the poverty issues.” Do you feel you are making a difference? “ The fact I am replacing an MP who was separatist in my riding is a big difference. She was a strong community activist

except I will be much better. She was in here interested to demonstrate the Federal Government doesn’t work. I have been able to pick up the slack in the riding and deliver for people showing them a Federal system works. I brought forth a motion on national youth service that may not result in the short term a policy on youth service but it is getting parliament to talk about youth,volunteerism and the relevance of young people. That is a huge victory so I am feeling pretty good so far.”

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Loch Lomond Equipment Grows Sales BY SCOTT A. SUMNER

Thunder Bay BUSINESS The desire to reach more remote areas of Northwestern Ontario for recreational activities and business has meant local Argo dealer, Loch Lomond Equipment continues to grow. “We like to think of ourselves as experts in high floatation, low ground pressure remote access solutions. Argo is being refined and expanded to serve these needs,” said Rick Prior, Managing Director of Loch Lomond Equipment. “Argo has been manufactured since 1967. The average hunter fisherman well knows its capabilities. In recent years the marketing has been broadened to include more of the industrial commercial sectors. There are new models for fishing and hunting with safety and comfort improvements as well other commercial models that are more heavy duty and have features that are safety oriented.” The Argo parent company was founded by a German company in New Hamburg, Ontario near KitchenerOntario Drive and Gear. Argo is one half of the business and the other half is drive and gear system transmissions for use by many other manufacturors around the world. The company decided in 1967 to build their own vehicles and that is when Argo was founded. Ontario Drive and Gear was just purchased by an equity firm in the US, a

group of investors whom will help with new product development and marketing to increase market share even higher. “ We have machines for the commercial sector and a selection of smaller Argos in 6 and 8 wheel drive for hunters and fishing. The hunting and fishing side is a mainstay for us. The commercial side is more of the growth side of the business with mining activi-

ties where there is a need. The starting Argo can range in cost from $10,000 to $30,000 in the hunting fishing area.” said Rick. Lock Lomond Equipment also sells Bombardier groomers. They are used extensively in the building of winter roads. Most First Nation communities have at least one up to five depending upon their roads. There are probably 100 of these grooming machines in use

in the North building roads as the lakes start to freeze according to Rick Prior. These machines are still built in Quebec. “ Loch Lomond Equipment has a full service shop with 5 mechanics, parts people and sales. We are serious at what we do.” states Rick Prior.

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Yes, I Mind Waiting 10 ways to reduce lineup stress for staff and customers •

By Jeff Mowatt

How do you let a cashier know that you’re in a hurry when you’re waiting in line? a) look at you watch and shake your head, b) sigh, huff, and roll your eyes, c) complain to others in the line, d) say to the person at the till, “We’re in a hurry here!”, e) all of the above. If you answered positively to any of these options, then you’re like most of us who definitely do mind waiting. Lineups are frustrating. They are barriers that prevent customers from fulfilling necessary and often tedious tasks. That means that if you don’t manage your lineups properly, you’ll lose business due to customer frustration. Not to mention your staff will be stressed-out. That’s a lose/lose scenario. Most managers think the best way to manage a lineup is to get the staff to work faster. Often, this only creates worse problems. Consider the impact on your staff of trying to work at full speed. It’s impossible to go flat-out without eventual burnout. Morale drops. Turnover increases. Tired employees make more mistakes; which take even more time to fix. Ditto for the negative impact of working faster on your customers. Only a fool would want tired, aggravated employees interacting with customers. Working faster to get through a line-up cuts short the human interaction that creates customer feelings of loyalty. In the long term, working faster doesn’t work. Instead, we need ways to reduce the stress of lineups for both customers and staff — without working faster. Here are ten: 1.

some “preliminaries” when they arrive — such as filling out forms, suggest that they arrive early to complete them before the scheduled appointment or event.

Too often, the first time the employee acknowledges the customer is when they get to the front of the line. That means a person who wants to spend money is being deliberately ignored. Lousy strategy. Instead, acknowledge customers with a “Hi there!” or “I’ll be with you in just a few minutes!” as they enter the lineup. 4.

Organize the line.

Often, people don’t mind waiting if they can avoid standing in line and yet still keep their place. Some restaurants and medical offices give customers pagers so they can go shopping while they wait. They’re paged just before it’s their turn. 5. Distract and entertain the customer. A sociology experiment found that the best way to speed-up a slow elevator was not to add a faster motor. Instead, they added mirrors to the inside of the elevator. People got so caught-up in looking at themselves they thought the ride was twice as fast. Lesson: you can reduce the perceived length of the lineup with a distraction. Examples: • Restaurants could offer reading material to people who are dining alone. • Disney theme parks provide video updates about the ride you waiting for. • Any unusual conversation piece will take your customer on a mental holiday. An Orlando hotel distracts guests waiting to register by herding live ducks to the fountain in the lobby. 6.

If your customer calls and says that they plan to come in, suggest the best times for them to drop-in to avoid waiting. 2. Schedule time for preparatory tasks. If you know the customer will have

ple in line, he discretely rings the doorbell signaling to a co-worker in the back to come to assist at the front

are working on the hotel.

counter.

Bottom line — no one likes lineups.

3. Acknowledge people entering the line.

Warn the customer in advance.

Ever been frustrated by the long waiting-room lineup to see a doctor? (I, know — stupid question). Though delays can happen for legitimate medical reasons, some doctor’s offices reduce patient frustration by phoning in advance and warning them of the delay.

behalf. A travel agent, for example, can phone the client to inform them that they’ve booked the flights, and

Provide comfort.

Provide seating, food and drink. On busy Saturdays, a Calgary car wash brings you free pop and hot dogs while you wait in your vehicle. 7.

Amuse the kids.

Prevent frazzled nerves for everyone by providing a play area for toddlers. Parents will love you for it. 8. Update the customer of progress. Even if you’re not completely ready for the customer, you can still let them know you’re working on their

Explain unusual delays.

If it’s an unusually long delay, apologize to the customer, explain the delay and thank them for waiting. When a pharmacist explained to me that his assistant had quit that day, so he was short staffed, I didn’t mind the wait. If he hadn’t pointed that out, I wouldn’t have returned. 10.

Increase staff at no extra cost.

If your lineups are sporadic you can increase capacity on the spot without spending extra money. Carol Chuback, manager of a Greyhound Courier Depot, installed a doorbell under the cashier’s counter. When the teller notices more than two peo-

But that’s no reason to ask staff to burn themselves out. By getting creative you’ll boost your repeat business, and you’ll make the buying experience more pleasant for everyone. That’s what I call win/win.

Jeff Mowatt is a customer service strategist, award-winning 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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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2015

Victims of child abuse ask adults to put themselves in their shoes and Step UP. Recently, Dilico Anishinabek Family Care and the Children’s Aid Society of Thunder Bay recognized October Child Abuse Prevention Month in Thunder Bay. The organizations came together to launch the annual Step UP campaign asking adults to put themselves in the shoes of innocent children whose safety, happiness and health is being threatened. It reminds the community that we are ALL responsible to protect children and we must Step UP. Says Rob Richardson, Executive Director of the Children’s Aid Society of the District of Thunder Bay; “We often forget what it’s like to be a child. They are little,

vulnerable and learning new things every day. Children often don't understand why negative things happen to them and they are afraid to ask for help. It is important for us to recognize the subtle signs of child abuse and to make that call when we have any concerns at all.” Child abuse includes physical, emotional and sexual abuse and/or neglect. It also addresses a pattern of abuse and risks of harm. Abused children do not always show obvious warning signs of abuse or neglect. By stepping up, adults can save the life of a child or give a family in crisis the help they need. “It’s so important that we work as a community to keep children safe. Over 114,000 adults

live in the Thunder Bay district. Everyone wants the best for children, every organization, every community, every parent;” explains Darcia Borg, Executive Director of Dilico Anishinabek Family Care. “The bottom line is we always want what’s best for kids, but sometimes we’re just not sure what to do. There are resources and supports in the community, and if people have questions or concerns, make that call, reach out. Try putting yourself in the shoes of local children. Know the signs.” In support of Child Abuse Prevention Month, the community was encouraged to participate in Go Purple for Prevention Day on October 26th. To participate, businesses, schools, families and individuals are encouraged to wear purple and post pictures on the official Step Up Facebook page. Purple is the signature colour of

child abuse prevention. Dilico Anishinabek Family Care and The Children’s Aid Society of the District of Thunder Bay deliver a range of responsive individual, family and community programs to children, individuals and families in northern Ontario. The agencies work collaboratively with families, youth, children and communities so all children have the opportunity to reach their full potential. If you have concerns about a child, please call: Dilico Anishinabek Family Care: 1-855-623-8511 (Emergency service 24 hours a day) Children’s Aid Society of the District of Thunder Bay: 1-800-465-3905 or (807) 343-6100 to make a referral.

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2015

REMEMBER? By Sherry Aalto The only reason I am able to write this article that you are now reading is because someone fought for my freedoms and that is what allows me to present this to you! And you? You are able to read this article for same reason! On November 11, 2015, Remembrance Day, don’t just take a moment to remember the fallen or those who gave …be grateful all day and every day forward…start now if you like. But above all, be grateful you are able to do what you are doing right now this very moment! and we could have been denied too! We should advocate gratitude to those who gave so we can be free, and that what they won for us, which is FREEDOM… was not in vain! Those who were lucky enough to make it back came home with challenges of all kinds and images in their heads that the devil himself would not want to see. War is anything but glamorous! Not romantic in the least! It is real and it doesn’t get any more real than this! One such story is told to me by the surviving son of Lesely Cyril Woodcock, (late May 1, 2005) of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada. A former resident of Manitoba, Canada, who lived with his father, mother and 3 bothers and one sister. Lesley Wooodcock lived on a farm in the

early 1930’s. Having two older brothers who left to join the airforce, Lesley followed and joined the armed forces. Lesley lied about his age to get in. Not long after joining, war was imminent in the 1940’s and full combat was the order of the day! Throughout the years, Lesley tells the story of D-Day to his own son, Byron Woodcock of Sault Ste. Marie Ontario and here, now, is the re-telling as remembered by Byron. D-Day, as recalled by one of our own Canadian soldiers…June 6, 1944. ‘We were nine miles out from the shores of Juno Beach, playing cards in the hull, waiting for the moment of instruction to invade! The waters were really rough that day and everyone was feeling the tension for what we knew was sure to come! Anxious and tired, I decided to get out from below ship and get some air out on the deck. I was standing on the bow. It was refreshingly cool and windy. Suddenly like an earthquake in my ears and a force that impaled my body, all hell broke loose! We were hit and hit hard by a land cannon right from the beaches of Juno! The artillery hit us dead in the heart of our ship! Men were screaming and running everywhere! The ship was going down and going down in flames as well! I couldn’t swim to save my life! The ship was sinking and someone told me to run to the stern, but the stern was the part was sinking first…I was sliding now in to an abyss! I had to save myself! I can remember our Sergeant yelling “abandon ship! Abandon shipe! Go! Go! Go!” ‘I was

disorientated and most everyone was. Men were dying right before my eyes…being killed by the blast and more being swallowed up by the propeller! I was never more afraid in my life! I was now in the blood stained water, trying to claw my way back to some point of safety. I had to clutch and crawl my way over dead bodies to get to safety but none was in sight…as the ship herself was sinking up on her end! I went under for the third time and my life now seemed so utterly at its end! Then my prayer had been answered…there it was…a floating wooden barrel! I reached out and clawed my way over men who would never see the light of day. I stayed with this won-

derful life saver until British soldiers pulled me into their ship! It is my good grace that I was saved while others perished! I was a lucky to not only have survived the ship under attack but the whole Juno Beach Invasion!’ Please join in the celebration of freedom on November 11, 2015 and each and every day. Celebrate your freedoms … EVERYDAY! Mr. Woodcock returned from the war, married and had a family. He became a well celebrated and recognized man at his place of employment and within his community in Sault Ste. Marie Ontario. His contributions to mankind and his community shall always be remembered!

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2015

“Architecture is an Economic Driver” BY SCOTT A. SUMNER

Thunder Bay BUSINESS Thunder Bay is dedicated to revitalizing its spaces with good architecture, especially along its historic port and downtown. With the second phase of the Waterfront development underway, it’s easy to see how the community is reacting to these thoughtfully designed spaces. With the help of local architecture firms and consultants, Thunder Bay is successfully building more than just community spaces; it’s fostering its residents, honouring its history and stimulating its local economy. The Ontario Association of Architects and the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce hosted an event called “Architecture is an Economic Driver” on Wednesday, September 30 . Toon Dreessen is Ontario Association of Architects President He works as a Architect in Ottawa, studied at Carlton University and started working in 2006. In Ontario there are currently 3700 Architects. This is an interesting event today for

Thunder Bay? “ We are going to communities across Canada to talk about how architecture is an economic driver. We see communities like Thunder Bay that are really at a cusp making significant investment. Thunder Bay has a long term plan to make significant investment in it’s waterfront, the preservation of heritage building and new buildings creating space for communities to grow around an area.”

What is your impression of Thunder Bay? “ Thunder has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, great restaurants, beautiful new buildings, older buildings, condos and other space ready for future development that is phased in. This provides a long term sustained growth for the community. The city can lead that with goals and targets with elements like the skating rink. How can architects help a city grow? “The creation of high quality built form is important. Architects are skilled at being design problem solvers. An architect on board early at site selection, procurement and so on is important. Resource extraction, ports are important but it is also important to go beyond a one line economy. Do you think Thunder Bay has good potential? “ Thunder Bay is a big enough city with the potential to grow with a good tax base. There is a real key potential here for really amazing architecture. It can be built by local trades and architects. The local people can serve the local community. Local firms should be involved in even very large projects to ensure that connection to local culture so you don’t see the same generic big box or similar buildings. It should be Thunder Bay. At the water-

front I see beautiful buildings that are unique in a sense to Thunder Bay. It is an informed sense of value and culture. For example the condos on the waterfront are appropriate sized for the area so feel scaled and sized for the neighbourhood in which they sit. An architects helps to see this is right.”

There is quite a long training period to become an architect? Architecture is a 6 year program. It is a 4 year undergrad and then a professional 2 year masters. Then you intern for 3 to 5 years and write a series of exams. It injects a sense of professional responsibility. We take what we do very seriously. We can contribute to culture and society. Being an architect means understanding light, colour, material, chemistry and culture. We want buildings to stand for a lifetime - for a generation.” Cory Stechyshyn is President of i4architecture and NWOSA Chair. “ Thunder Bay has about 12 architects today. The role that architecture plays in the economy and economic development is important and has contributed to the prosperity of cities, firms and companies.”

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Thunder Bay’s TIL-KA Construction Inc. Sees Good Growth BY SCOTT A. SUMNER

Thunder Bay BUSINESS You may have seen the many trucks driving around Thunder Bay with the unusual name TIL-KA. The name TIL-KA is a blending of two previous companies that merged together. In 1995 there was Tiller Construction and Cibirka

Construction and the beginning and end of the names became the company TIL-KA. “ I have been in Thunder Bay since 1988 in construction business. We partnered in 1995 and incorporated in 1996. My partner was originally from Barrie, Ontario and moved back to Barrie in 2000 when we opened an office there. In 2007 we decided

it was better to have two separate offices and we each ran offices with only the TILKA name remaining in Thunder Bay,” said Jim Tiller, President of TIL-KA Construction Inc. Today TIL-KA has two sides or areas of work in the company. The exterior side includes windows, doors, siding, soffit, fascia and roofing. Then there is the construction side which does new construction, renovations, light commercial including smaller commercial jobs like putting the steel on buildings and roofing. “ Most of our work is residential exterior work but we do build houses and have done so more aggressively the last few years. We do all the work needed in a house and are headed more into building houses but the bulk of our work now is home renovation. We are also currently finishing two houses, a custom home and a spec home that is being sold by Belluz Realty in Tuscony Estates off Hilldale Road. ” said Jim Tiller, age 54. “ We have about 20 people on staff especially in the summer period. We started with 2 partners and a couple workers and have grown since then. Today we are one of the main

exterior renovation companies in Thunder Bay. We don’t do stucco or brick but almost everything else. We are busy with 7 crews out there doing roofing, shingling,

windows, doors and siding as well as blow in insulation.” Continued

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Thunder Bay’s TIL-KA Construction Inc. Sees Good Growth Continued “ Our customer normally is the regular consumer that see our trucks, go to the yellow pages or our web site, or heard about us from their friends. Word of

mouth has been our biggest advertisement,” said Tiller. “ If someone even just wants a new front door we can do that. We also have done all Home Depot’s exterior work since when they opened

here in Thunder Bay. Our company is one of the few that do everything in house- we don’t sub anything out with our crews doing specific jobs. We are a one stop shop for exterior and can build the entire house. We do interior residential as well but usually only in the winter because we are so busy during the summer with our exterior work.”

of the business I was working 12 to 14 hours a day growing the business until we hired more staff and are still continuing to grow.” “ The economy of Thunder Bay is good right now and I think it is going to get better. The housing market is a little bit soft now but we have had a boomer the last 3 or 4 years so it has to slow down

“ The market is a little bit slow right now in Thunder Bay but our closing rate is good, so our pricing is good and service good. The season started earlier this year from last year when everyone was in a rush to get their jobs done with the late arrival of spring. It is still good this year. We are very busy from when the snow goes to Christmas- pretty much flying.” said Jim Tiller. “During the start

a little bit. Thunder Bay is kinda protected from the rest of Canada to some degree. It goes up and down a little but is quite stable. Thunder Bay is a good place to live.” www.tilkaconstruction.com

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Drivers with Winter Tires Eligible for Insurance Discount Ontario Promoting Safe Driving and Helping Drivers Save on Auto Insurance

§ Change tires that are worn close to the tread-wear indicators § Check the tires’ air pressure at least once a month

Ontario is moving forward with its plan to help lower auto insurance rates by requiring all insurance companies in the province to provide a discount for drivers who buy and install winter tires, starting January 1, 2016.

Over the last two years, the government has introduced a number of important and necessary reforms to Ontario’s auto insurance system to reduce costs and lower the premiums of Ontario’s more than 9.5 million drivers. In order to continue achieving rate reductions, the government outlined a series of further initiatives in the 2015 Budget, including bringing costs more in line with other provinces and providing Ontario consumers with more choice in purchasing auto insurance to suit their needs. Ontarians should talk to their insurers and brokers to understand all the options that will be available to them to tailor their insurance coverage and the premiums they pay. Protecting auto insurance consumers and ensuring affordable premiums is part of

Winter tires enhance safety and reduce the likelihood of collisions by improving traction, braking and handling in frost, snow, slush and under cold and icy conditions. When buying winter tires, Ontario is also reminding drivers to: § Look for tires marked with a logo of a peaked mountain with a snowflake § Install winter tires in sets of four § Do not mix tires with different tread patterns or size

the government's plan to build Ontario up. The four-part plan includes investing in people's talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario's history, creating a dynamic, innovative environment where business thrives and building a secure retirement savings plan.

Ontario. Last year, we extended the length of time studded tires are allowed on roads and today’s announcement will not only encourage the importance of winter tires but will also help consumers save more on their auto insurance.” - MPP Bill Mauro, Thunder Bay Atikokan

QUOTES ““I am pleased with our government‘s commitment to reducing insurance costs and lowering premiums for drivers who buy and install winters tires. It is also encouraging to see promotion of winter tires which enhance safety with winter driving conditions.” - MPP Michael Gravelle, Thunder Bay – Superior North “This new regulation builds on our government’s commitment to keeping drivers safe, especially here in Northwestern

QUICK FACTS § Winter tires that are in good condition can shorten braking distances by as much as 25 per cent. § Ontario’s accident benefits coverage is the most generous among provinces with private marketplace systems. § Drivers with winter tires need to first contact their insurance company to determine the amount of the discount they offer and the documentation they require to verify use of winter tires.

Northern Policy Institute launches newest research tool for Northern Ontario Northern Ontario data is now just a click away. Northern Policy Institute, North Superior Workforce Planning Board, and the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre are pleased to launch Northbynumbers.ca, an interactive data tool that displays Northern Ontario census data from between 2001 and 2011. Northbynumbers.ca was commissioned by Northern Policy Institute in partnership with North Superior Workforce Planning Board. It was designed by the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre in conjunction with the research team at Northern Policy Institute. The interactive map allows users to search census data using a variety of search topics and characteristics. Some of the search topics include: · · · · · · ·

Dwelling characteristics Aboriginal Identity Education Income Labour force Mobility Population and age

Users can then define a variable, year, and geographic region based on the search topic. Geographic regions are divided into census divisions (districts), census subdivisions (communities), and dissemination areas (neighbourhoods). “Northbynumbers.ca brings together all the census data for Northern Ontario and presents it using an easily readable, easily accessible, and easy to learn tool,” says Northern Policy Institute president and CEO, Charles Cirtwill. “This new tool will be an invaluable resources to researchers, policy makers, public officials, stu-

dents, and anyone looking for data on Northern Ontario.” “Accessibility to data is imperative to allow analysis, understanding and dissemination of labour market indicators for use in the development of our annual Local Labour Market Plan for the Thunder Bay District,” says North Superior Workforce Planning Board’s Executive Director, Madge Richardson. “Northbynumbers.ca makes that data available to everyone at any time and will add value to all of our strategic planning.” Launching alongside Northbynumbers.ca is Northern Policy Institute’s new website. Developed by Sencia Canada in Thunder Bay in conjunction with Northern Policy Institute, the new website includes all publications released by Northern Policy Institute, as well as a new searchable publication database. The new website will also pave the way for an online library currently under development, as well as an interactive Arc GIS map of Northern Ontario infrastructure. “As Northern Ontario’s own independent think tank, Northern Policy Institute strives to not only conduct research, but to make that research and data available to the people of Northern Ontario,” Cirtwill adds. “Northbynumbers.ca and our new website, as well as some exciting features to come, will make it easier to gain access to important data about the north, which we believe will help spearhead even more research and create more informed decisions for moving the north forward.” Northbynumbers.ca can be found at www.northbynumbers.ca. You can access the help and glossary section to help familiarize yourself with the fea-

tures available on www.northbynumbers.ca. We also invite you to fill out our online feedback form to let us know what you think about Northbynumbers.ca and how it can be improved.

Northern Policy Institute’s new website can be found at www.northernpolicy.ca.

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Legal Matters and Stroke Foundation to shine a spotlight on the importance of having a will to specifically express your wishes about your estate. You may have spent a long time building your assets and now you have an opportunity to make sure your assets are distributed how YOU want. But, regardless of how much money you may or may not have, estate planning

is about much more. As the Alzheimer Society puts it so well in the toolkit they make available through the OBA: “Your estate planning experience should be about more than numbers; it should be a reminder that your values and legacy are worth preserving and your life experiences matter.” With a Will... • Your family will not have to guess what your final wishes were; • You can control the age at which your children receive their inheritance; • You can express your wishes for custody of your children; • You may make special provision for beneficiaries with special needs or vulnerabilities; • Your family will have greater certainty and a smoother transi-

tion during a difficult time; • Your estate trustee will have the authority to make funeral arrangements, handle business and communicate with your banks and financial institutions immediately after your death. • You can provide for specific gifts to friends, family, church, or favourite charities; Without a Will • Probate fees, taxes and administration costs will likely be higher. • Your assets will be distributed in accordance with “one size fits all” rules of law which are unlikely to match your wishes, and may not match your family’s needs; • Your estate trustee will have limited powers to invest and deal with assets, and may be required to sell

assets you would want to stay within the family; • Custody of your children may be dealt with in court without your wishes being considered; • Vulnerable family members may not be protected; • Your values and beliefs may not be preserved. Please take a few moments to reflect on these points. Then consider whether November should be YOUR month to make a will, before holiday distractions present yet another reason to put it off. If it makes it easier, consider stopping by Weilers Wills Clinic located in Balmoral Commons on a Saturday morning for more information.

Want to Improve Your Health? Then ask, “Why is the Why?” Pain, inflammation, dizziness, nausea, high blood pressure, heart burn or achy joints. These are not diseases in themselves but rather symptoms or signs of some underlying health problem. So should you take or do things merely to block out these signs and symptoms? That would be like putting a piece of masking tape over the red or amber light on your car dashboard that tells you that you have break or motor trouble or that you are low in gas. It sounds ludicrous to do that to your car does it not? Yet a lot of what we take as health care does exactly that. There are two very different but important paradigms of health care. One is the reductionist model. This tries to separate every aspect of your health in to parts and compartments. It works fairly well for emergency or crisis situations like, traumas (slips, falls, car accidents etc), heart attacks, strokes. But not so great at chronic disease or optimizing health. It is mostly a symptom based quick fix approach to health care. The other paradigm is the holistic approach. This methodology focuses on improving the health of the whole person and sees each system

and part interconnected to each other. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this approach if you where bleeding out from a huge gash in your leg. But there is so much more to health than crisis intervention. A holistic health paradigm looks to the why, the root cause of your health problems.

As an example let us use headaches. There are many different types of headaches. Some last minutes while others last days. Some cause severe stabbing pain while others are mild dull and achy. There can also be many different reasons from very serious to quite trivial for experiencing a headache. However, I guarantee you

that headaches are never due to a lack of Tylenol or Aspirin in your body. Finding the root cause of your headaches rather than masking the symptoms is a much better approach. Ask yourself “Why”. A pinched or irritated spinal nerve in the neck often leads to a headache. The appropriate therapy for this cause could be chiropractic care. If your headaches were due to chronic muscle tension then a massage therapist might be the answer. Perhaps your eyes are the cause, then the optometrist would be best. Grinding your teeth is the cause, then visit the dentist. However, you then need to take it a step further. Ask yourself “why is the why”. For example, why do I have a pinched nerve in my neck, or chronic muscle tension? Is it because you sleep on your stomach, poor ergonomics at work? Why do I grind my teeth? Is it a physical, mental or emotional reason?

Obtaining optimal health is not an event it is a way of life. This is a hard sell in modern time. Everything we watch on television, hear on the radio, smart phones, movies comes to us in fast action clips and snipits of information. Our attention span is becoming smaller and smaller while our desire for instant results and gratification becomes stronger. In next month’s column we will continue with part two and discuss the why of acid reflux and allergies.

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 NOVEMBER 2015

It’s Two for Two for Habitat for Humanity on World Habitat Day BY SCOTT A. SUMNER

Thunder Bay BUSINESS Recently , in celebration of World Habitat Day, Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay and Gillons Insurance - formally Thunder Bay Insurance - gathered to present two deserving families with the keys to their first homes. Located at 677 Hodder Avenue, the Thunder Bay Insurance Habitat for Humanity Legacy House is the first semi-detached house the not-for-profit organization has built in over a decade. After five years of fundraising, and over one year of being under construction, the home is now completed thanks to the help of community volunteers and supporters

like Gillons Insurance which financed the home. David Baxter, Gillons Insurance Manager, says; “The Gillons team is proud to support Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay and two families in need. It takes capital to finance a house but it takes love and dedication to make it a home - which Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay and their volunteers have done. This is a very inspiring day for all of us and the Davis and Thompson families could not be more deserving.” Teresa Davis, single mother to three teenagers and Thunder Bay Insurance Habitat for Humanity Legacy House recipient, says she used to spend the majority of her monthly income on temporary housing

before receiving the Habitat home. “I’m not in a place where I qualify for a traditional mortgage through a bank. I had previous financial difficulties and it’s quite hard to support three growing teenagers on a limited income;” says Davis. “I never thought I’d be able to own my own home, but now I am working towards that goal. We used to live in rentals and it was hard to get comfortable in a temporary environment. Now my kids can decorate their rooms and feel like they're at home.” Each year on the first Monday of October,

The United Nations recognizes World Habitat Day as a day to reflect on the state of our cities and towns, and on the basic right of adequate shelter. It is also intended to remind the world that we all have the power to shape the future of our cities and towns to promote health and happiness among citizens, and foster economic investment and development. Continues Davis; “We can’t wait to become a part of the neighbourhood and give back to the community that has embraced us in our time of need. World Habitat Day is about shaping our city and there’s no better way than to provide individuals with the chance to break their cycle of poverty.”

Diane Mitchell, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Thunder Bay “ We decided this was a perfect day to dedicate these two new houses. This is the first time in over 10 years that we have built semi detached homes. We have had construction delays, financial and road work going on so it took 1 1/2 years to complete, longer than we hoped, but the families are in and their children in their proper schools so we are happy.” “ We have a lot of families spending well over 50% of their family income to pay for housing. We believe families a should not pay more than 25% of their income for their housing. The houses are built nd paid for by Habitat for Humanity. We actually hold the mortgages for the families about $1.2 million in total right now. We administer them and can do a no interest for the families. We look at their tax assessment and make sure they are at 25%.of income.” “ We hope to build next year on Finlayson and Simpson after we raise the funds. We will be there for about 4 years with 4 properties there and looking forward.” “ The families are chosen by a process laid out by Canada Revenue Agency. They have to live at or below the low income cutoff, in need of housing, have an income that can pay back a mortgage and lived in Thunder Bay for minimum 3 years as citizens of Canada or landed immigrants.” Teresa Davis home owner “ We have the sense of having permanence or somewhere to put roots down and a sense of independence. The efforts of all the volunteers they have put out for families like mine is amazing. It is very expensive to find somewhere adequate to rent here with three teenage children.” Dave Baxter “We started this in 2010 at Thunder Bay Insurance as a joint effort of ownership and staff. Janis Whatley, one of our employees, had this land available so we could do a two family home. Gillons have given us the time off to work on this build. It has been a true effort to raise this money We wanted to give back to our community.”

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2015

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LOYAL ORDER OF MOOSE LODGE 947 VITAL PART OF COMMUNITY By Sherry Aalto In Thunder Bay, The Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 947 has been known over the years for its vital contribution to the community! The lodge has been part of our great heritage since the early 1950’s and for many of you who do not know it, our lodge, #947, has been serving charities and those in need for many years, in many places. Part of the contribution from the lodge includes, donating hall space to the Thunder Bay Police Youth Corps., every Wednesday evening for the past 23 years. The Thunder Bay Police Youth Corps meet every

Wednesday evening between 7:00 P.M. and 9:00 P.M. They are a non-profit organization and many volunteers; freely give of their time for boys and girls from 13 to 15 years of age. Here they are taught about policing which encompasses Marksmanship program/involving safety training in firearms and law. The members graduate through the levels of Cadet to Sergeant, Staff Sergeant then to Inspector. If the Loyal Moose Lodge was not here to donate time and space, certain activities would never get off the ground. Another organization that has recently found their new home with the Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 947 is the Thunder Bay Good Food Box Program. Gwen O’Reilly,

Executive Director of Northwestern Ontario Women’s Centre, for the Thunder Bay Good Food Box Program, is extremely excited and grateful to the lodge for coming to their aide when the food box program needed to find a new home. The Good Food Box Program volunteers meet for an entire day, the last Thursday of each month. The Thunder Bay Good Food Box is a non-profit community-based fruit & vegetable distribution program enabling those with limited resources to purchase quality fresh foods. Boxes are ordered and paid for during the first week of the month and distributed to local neighborhoods on the 2nd last Thursday of each month. Each box is filled with fresh produce, as well as a newsletter containing recipes and food preparation tips. Patrick Cross, Administrator of the Loyal Order of Moose Lodge encourages organizations to inquire about how the lodge can be of serv-

ice to them and also for anyone needing a hall for an event or activity. This particular hall has been here in the community for many, many years and has been part of some pretty exciting celebrations and events. The Loyal Oder of Moose Lodge 947 takes very seriously being an integral part of Thunder Bay. The main hall offers 7000 sq. feet of space. The room is capable of seating up to 400 people to a sit down meal at 5' round tables of 8 or 6' rectangular tables seating up to 6 people per table. The room includes features such as a full bar service, PA system, a Power Point System, WiFi, "Shaw go" service and a coat check if required. Full catering service is also available. Small Hall - Our small hall is located in the front section of our building known as the "Social Quarters". Events such as baby showers, business meetings, birthday celebrations and wedding receptions may use this space. The room offers the capability of accommodating up to 100 people and includes an in ceiling PA system as well as WiFi and "Shaw go" service. We offer 60" round tables or 6' rectangular tables. The Moose Lodge is now the new home of Red Seal Meals catering! Visit them at www.redsealmeals.com. Call any time to book the hall for your special occasion or to inquire about our Pool League! Book now to secure your space for your Christmas office party, special occasions, business meetings, baptisms, special events, special interests or charitable programs. Visit the lodge 434 Fort William Rd, Thunder Bay, Ontario or call Patrick Cross at (807)345-5129. www.moosehallthunderbay.com

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2015

"If it's Worth Doing, it's Worth Dulux!" Almost 16 years ago, Charlene & Shawn van Someren bought a paint store called 'Color Your World'. Even though the company has gone through several name changes (due to large corporate buyouts in the global marketplace), the location (784 Memorial Ave., next to McDonalds),the quality products, reasonable prices, and dedicated customer service remains unchanged. Our Dulux Paint is also proudly made in Canada. In order to help busy consumers save time, money & simplify decorating projects, the store has evolved into a convenient one-stopdecorating-center offering many products, installation, & helpful, knowledgeable service every step of the way. "We can help you coordinate that special look all at

one location starting with the latest paint colours to carpet, flooring (vinyl, laminate, hardwood), window coverings by Hunter Douglas, wallpaper (largest in-stock selection in the city), and then add the finishing touches with unique giftware, home dĂŠcor or framed artwork. We also offer marine products at competitive on-line pricing for all of your boating needs". Customer service is always the main focus. The many stickers proudly displayed on the front door for winning "Thunder Bays Favourite Paint Store" in the Chronicle Journals Readers Choice Awards are proof of this. A great way to save money is with your Dulux Club Membership; only $20.00 for a lifetime membership gets you 25% off all Dulux paint, primer and stains all the time, & discounts on select sundries. CAA

Members also receive the same benefits. Stop by to peruse the new Hunter Douglas window treatment displays, new wallpaper, giftware & home dĂŠcor, and 50% off select

framed artwork. "Thank you for shopping local. We thank you for your business and look forward to helping you with any of your projects".

Next Issue:

Thunder Bay Business Technology & Christmas Greetings Ad Copy Deadline November 24th Contact Sylvia @ 629-7599 or Sonia @ 631-4244 www.northsuperiorpublishing.com