Thunder Bay Business November 2012 Full

November 2012

Phase 2 Feasibility Report on Proposed Event Centre Released see page 8

Tbaytel’s Purchases the Dryden DMTS Mobility Local Artist Makes Donation To Thunder Bay and Area Victim Services Organization Delta Hotels and Resorts Named Hotelier on Thunder Bay’s Waterfront TBRHSC Breaks Ground on New Health Services Centre

Dowland Contracting Ltd. Signs innovative steel-based housing venture with PTH Canada and PTH China See Page 6

New Technology With The 2013 Cadillac ATS See page 5

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2012

National Army Reserve Recognition Day Sees Thunder Bay Transit Employee Honoured MCpl Kulyk, Kayla Lake Superior Scottish Regiment It would not be unfair to say his defining feature is his moustache. In fact, you may recognize it from the sides of Thunder Bay City buses last Movember. Captain George

Technician since 1980.

He, like many other reservists, finds the time to balance a full time civilian career and family; some soldiers even balance the demands of school. The City of Thunder Bay Transit Department along with the

Members of the Lake Superior Scottish Regiment and Thunder Bay Transit Maintance Staff.

Captain George Romick receives his Certificate of Appreciation in honour of National Army Reserve Recognition Day Left to Right - Chief Warrant Officer Rob Morris, Manager Fleet Services, City of Thunder Bay Jim Suffak, Captain George Romick and Lieutenant Colonel Geoff Abthorpe, Commanding Officer of the Lake Superior Scottish Regiment Romick has been a member of the Canadian Forces has recognized his excepCanadian Forces as a reservist since 1975 tional commitment on the Third of October and has held a civilian career with Thunder with the first Army Reserve Recognition Bay’s Transit Department as Lubrication Day. “This day provides an outstanding

opportunity to recognize and highlight the Army Reserve’s important contribution …” explained Lieutenant-General P.J. Devlin, the commander of the Canadian Army. He goes on to further say “Army Reservists serve the Canadian Army with dedication, all the while remaining active in their home towns and their civilian jobs”.

For the last thirty-seven years George Romick has been just that, dedicated and active in his home town and civilian job. It

takes well-rounded individuals to be able to play multiple roles in such demanding domains. It is this flexibility and dedication displayed by George Romick throughout his career that has granted him recognition for his outstanding contribution as an Army Reservist at the Lake Superior Scottish Regiment since 1975. Recognition was also made to the City and his Coworkers for the support they provide to George in order for him to meet his military requirements.

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2012

We must remember. If we do not, the sacrifice of those one hundred thousand Canadian lives will be meaningless. They died for us, for their homes and families and friends, for a collection of traditions they cherished and a future they believed in; they died for Canada.

The meaning of their sacrifice rests with our collective national consciousness; our future is their monument.

IN FLANDERS FIELDS In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

John McCrae

Lest We Forget Remembering the sacrafices of our men and women in uniform.

Thank you to our Vets & Active Personel.

409 George Street Thunder Bay, ON P7E 5Y9 Tel: 807.623.6000 raffej@parl.gc.ca

John Rafferty, MP. Thunder Bay - Rainy River New Democrat Critic for Forestry

www.johnrafferty.ndp.ca

PAGE 3

Delta Hotels and Resorts Named Hotelier on Thunder Bay’s Waterfront Redevelopment Thunder Bay’s first 4-star upscale hotel set to open in early 2014 September 12, 2012 (Toronto, ON) – Delta Hotels and Resorts is pleased to announce its expansion into Northwestern Ontario with a new hotel that will be constructed on Prince Arthur’s Landing as part of Thunder Bay’s world class waterfront redevelopment. The hotel is expected to create approximately 110 jobs, and is part of a private sector investment which also consists of two condominiums, and a commercial building for shops and restaurants which will see this portion of the waterfront transformed into a vibrant, mixed use space that is active year-round and attractive for all ages.

Located in the heart of the city’s downtown core on a prime waterfront location and adjacent to the two Vue condominium towers, the Delta Thunder Bay will become the city’s first 4-star upscale, full service hotel after a more than $20 million investment. Slated to open in early 2014, the hotel will offer 150 guestrooms and suites including 18 penthouse rooms and 10 rooms with terraces. The hotel will feature Delta’s new ModeRoom ™ guestrooms which are modern, adaptable and laden with technology features. The majority of the rooms will provide spectacular, unobstructed views of Lake Superior and Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.

“We are thrilled to be a part of Thunder Bay’s vibrant waterfront redevelopment,” says Ken Greene, President & CEO, Delta Hotels and Resorts. “Thunder Bay is a thriving community with natural resources that attract tourists from across Canada and around the world. It is an honour for us to bring our 4-star hotel experience to one of the best locations in the city, and help play a critical role in driving tourism to the region.”

The hotel will also boast 9,000 square feet of conference and meeting space including a 5,300 square foot ballroom offering garden and waterfront views, a full service restaurant and lounge with an outside terrace overlooking Lake Superior, a business centre, indoor pool and state of the art fitness centre.

The Delta Thunder Bay will be managed and operated by Delta Hotels and Resorts, and is owned by The Re Solve Group, one of the leading residential and commercial developers in Manitoba and Ontario.

Construction is being handled by local based Manshield Construction, and the project was designed by award-winning architecture and planning firm Brook McIlroy based in Toronto and Thunder

Bay. “Delta is well known for its high level of service excellence and exceptional reputation among travelers,” said Gisele MacDonald, President, Re Solve Group Inc. “We chose Delta because of its strong track record in contributing to the growth of the tourism industry in secondary and tertiary markets in Canada. We’re excited to bring this property to market with them.”

With its prime location on Prince Arthur’s Landing in the heart of downtown and the vibrant waterfront redevelopment, the Delta Thunder Bay will offer guests easy access to year-round attractions and outdoor experiences in a spectacular mixeduse village including an arts centre, water garden pavilion, skating rink, splash pad, skate board park, public paths and trails, spirit garden, public art, and restaurants and cafes. The hotel is also situated within close proximity to Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area, the world’s largest fresh water conservation reserve, and Crown Land which is a resource for snowmobiling, hunting, hiking, camping, wild life viewing, and the likes.

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2012

Aboriginal Business Day Event Brings one of a kind Talent to Thunder Bay

BY SCOTT A. SUMNER

Thunder Bay BUSINESS It was an exciting atmosphere at the Victoria Inn in Thunder Bay at a day long conference held as part of Small Business week. There were some very interesting speakers on hand including Wab Kinew from Winnipeg.

Wab Kinew is the owner of Indie Ends Production that does live event production, video production and develops mobile apps. He is also the Director of Indigenous Inclusion for the University of Winnipeg and is based in Winnipeg. Wab was born in Kenora and raised near Nestor Falls. He has a BA in economics from the University of Manitoba. “ I will be speaking about the ways the aboriginal community are connecting with the main stream economy in Canada. If you look around Canada from coast to coast to coast there are a lot of exciting things happening with new relationships.

We want prosperity and are becoming active partners in developing natural

resource projects, band owned business or First Nations entrepreneurs working for themselves,” said Wab Kinew. “ The rate of business ownership in the Aboriginal community is growing three times faster than the rest of Canada. I want to talk about that new relationship and some people that are pulling it off in a good way. I like to approach things with an entrepreneurial spirit looking for opportunity and ways to take things to market.”

Wab works all the time pretty much with some time for his family and his time at the gym. “ I like being able to do deals on my I Phone and laptop. It is super helpful, the technology of today. You still have to work hard and put in lots of hours every week but for myself I don’t look at it like work,” said Wab. “ Today is about celebrating some of the successes so people can see it is happening and people are doing it so we can do it too. I think often times we don’t take a second to reflect on the big picture and so I hope what I talk about will give people the chance to reflect and consider the bigger picture or strategy in their lives.”

THUNDER BAY WINS STRATEGIC PROJECT OF THE YEAR AND JOB CREATION PROJECT OF THE YEAR AWARDS Wednesday, October 17 - The Ring of Fire and NWO Mineral Deposits wins the Strategic Project of the Year and the Job Creation Project of the Year Awards at the 4th Annual North American Strategic Infrastructure Leadership Forum in Denver, Colorado on October 16, 2012.

The Forum is being held on October 15 to 17, 2012, with over 500 executives from the public and private sector in attendance.

The Forum is a 2 ? day conference, focused on infrastructure development in

North America, designed to create business opportunities and promote projects across the region, as well as showcase the cities, states and provinces with the most innovative infrastructure plans. This annual event draws international investors, engineers and developers.

The Strategic Project of the Year award is the most prestigious prize awarded. The award is for projects which will generate a giant stride in a country or region’s productivity and/or competitiveness.

The Job/Opportunity Creation Project of the Year is for projects that will create the

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greatest number of jobs and/or businesses over the lifetime of the project. This award tabulates direct, indirect and induces job creation, over the 20 to 30 year life of the project.

Fort William First Nation (FWFN) and CEDC are undertaking the Mining Readiness Strategy to address and strategically plan for economic growth in Thunder Bay and the region.

Winners were announced yesterday afternoon at the Forum. Top projects are chosen by a jury of forum sponsors, with a wide representation across geographies and sectors.

The Mining Readiness Strategy will address issues related to: transportation and infrastructure needs; industrial energy; workforce training and development; business development; housing and community services; research and development; capital investment and financing; intergovernmental relations; and communications.

Steve Demmings, CEO -Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC) and John Mason, Project Manager - Mining Services CEDC, attended the Forum to create outside awareness that Northwestern Ontario (NWO) is one of the mine production and exploration “hotspots” in Canada as 9 to 13 major exploration projects are anticipated to come into production by 2013-2017.

Their attendance may also create potential investment opportunities for mine and mineral projects in NWO.

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Thunder Bay and NWO are emerging as a regional exploration and mining hub, which has initiated the Mining Readiness Strategy – An Integrated Regional Economic Development Plan.

Research demonstrates that the discovery and development of mineral resources in the “Ring of Fire” and beyond will create mining opportunities that will have a direct impact in shaping the region’s exciting economic outlook. Currently Thunder Bay hosts 29 exploration company offices, and over 130 service and supply companies in exploration/mining. Anticipated growth in mining will place unique pressures on Thunder Bay and communities in NWO. The Strategy is in its early stages of development, and is scheduled to be completed

by January 2013. Implementation of the Strategy is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2015.

The City of Thunder Bay, together with CEDC is responsible for business development, retention and expansion, entrepreneurial support, opportunity promotion, and collection and assessment of key business data. Incorporated in December 2006, CEDC is an arms-length Community Development Corporation, led by an independent Board with core funding from the City of Thunder Bay. Located within CEDC's administrative office, the Thunder Bay and District Entrepreneur Centre provides seminars, workshops and free and confidential business counselling services to new and existing small businesses.

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2012

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Thunder Bay Plays Host To Huge Medical Conference

BY SCOTT A. SUMNER

Thunder Bay BUSINESS The hotels are sold out, flights into Thunder Bay were hard to come by and the excitement level was high as 882 medial delegates from over 50 countries round the world converged on Thunder Bay to learn more about themselves and what they can offer others. “ There are five medical organizations that are known world wide and we are fortunate to have our Dean, Dr Roger Strasser who is a member of all the organizations.

The main theme of these organizations is around rural health education with other mandates as well. The five organizations traditionally have their own conferences but this one event in Thunder Bay is bringing all those conferences together into one,” said Sue Berry, NOSM Assistant Dean of Integrated Clinical Learning. “ Many of the participants are from over 150 different health schools around the world. We have 300 learners, 200 of our own NOSM students plus 100 from elsewhere as well as researchers and clinicians.

Thunder Bay is an ideal location to hold this event as we are the newest medical school in Canada and have a similar mandate as others who are socially accountable

for the regions they serve with leading edge technology.”

Everyday the event will feature speakers in the morning and afternoon from around the world. After these sessions

incredible expertise here in Thunder Bay this week according to Sue Berry who noted there are 17 medical schools in Canada and we have 75% of them represented here.

Sue Berry, NOSM Assistant Dean of Integrated Clinical Learning. there are workshops and 10-minute presentations on research activities. Also delegates present their research and unique activities like Pearls (personally arranged learning sessions) occur where the audience helps with answers. There is an

“ We have taken over most of the hotels rooms in Thunder Bay and the flights are sold out here for several days as we found out with one delegate who was trying to get in after a missed flight and had to wait two days. This event highlights the NOSM

as one of the younger medical schools making a difference in Canada. It is a thrill that 882 people wanted to come to Thunder Bay to see the community,”smiles Sue Berry.

The event had local community site visits to different organizations here to learn how we service the local economy. There were also conferences on the move to travel in NW Ontario. “ On Thursday we have two coach buses leaving for Sudbury.

One will be travelling the north route to the Lake Helen Reserve and then on to Hearst and Cochrane ending up in Sudbury. The other will go along Lake Superior, stopping in Nipigon and leaning about our Digital Imaging System across the North - telemedicine and then on to Wawa and Manitoulin Island and then to Sudbury. We also have delegates going on 1-day workshops in Sioux Lookout and some going to Marathon. There are also tours around Thunder Bay.” said Berry. “ The delegates to this conference are from all over the world and in some cases flights can be over $2000 with the total cost to them to attend over $4 to $5000.”

New Technology With The 2013 Cadillac ATS

BY SCOTT A. SUMNER

Thunder Bay BUSINESS For carmaker GM, the 2013 Cadillac ATS fits into a segment called the compact luxury car that has competitors like the BMW

3 series. It is not made to replace the Cadillac CTS but to bring buyers in that are looking for a sport luxury car according to Brad Haywood, Used Vehicle Sales Manager at Badanai Motors in Thunder Bay. “ There is a ton of new technology on the Cadillac ATS from GM. As soon as you get in the car everything is blacked out and when the car is running all the systems light up displaying the Cadillac name. The new CUE system which stands for Cadillac User Experience gives you a whole array of services like the touch screen, the navigation system, 3 USB ports and voice controllability,” said Brad Haywood. “ It is very easy to use and be as complicated as you want it to be. It can dial your phone, read your text messages and so on.” “ The first thing you notice when you touch the screen is it has an I Pad feel to it with big large icons that are easy to use and select. When you select something all the not pertinent in formation will go away until you touch it again. The screen has a

proximity system on it so as soon as you bring your hand close to the touch screen all the buttons will visualize again. It is very user friendly.,”said Haywood.

The 2013 Cadillac ATS has three differ-

ent engine combinations including the base 2.5 liter 4 cylinder that is an all-new engine from GM this year and is also used in the new Malibu. There is also a 3.6-liter V6 engine that really has a lot of power and is available with a manual transmission. The 2-liter turbo is also available with a ton of technology. It gives you a lot of torque soon and all the way through the power band. For the performance driver that wants to get good economy and performance the 2 liter turbo will just go. The car is also very light using a lot of aluminum. “ You can feel how nimble it is when you drive it. It weighs less than a Cobalt sedan and has the Cadillac magnetic ride control which can be adjusted from normal to sport to even a system that would maximize it for snow and ice,” said Haywood. “ The ATS is not your traditional Cadillac of the past. I have driven many mid sized sportier cars owned by friends and they don’t compare. When you take your first corner you will realize the power of the car. It will be an awesome offering for

Cadillac with a nice MSRP depending on what engine and options you choose. It is just very fun to drive and the first car we have received that has all the user-friendly technology that will be standard on all the

new models. The lease rates will be very attractive as well as it is a traditional leasing segment car.”

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2012

Dowland Contracting Ltd. Signs innovative steel-based housing venture with PTH Canada and PTH China

BY SCOTT A. SUMNER

Thunder Bay BUSINESS Patrick McGuinness, President and CEO of Dowland is pleased to announce an agreement to provide steel-based housing between PTH Canada and PTH China has been reached. The ceremonial signing will took place October 17th at the Fort William Historical Park Visitor Centre.

This special event was organized by Wasaya Dowland Ventures LP in consultation with numerous organizations throughout Northwestern Ontario committed to the ongoing economic development of the region, including the Federal Government, the Government of Ontario, the city of Thunder Bay, First Nations organizations and Confederation College. “Our shared objective is to initiate an exciting longterm investment process to improve accommodations at mining sites, housing for First Nations communities and housing for new growth associated with the Ring of Fire developments across Northern Ontario” said McGuinness.

About Dowland Contracting Limited Established in Tuktoyatuk, Northwest Territories in 1983, Dowland is a full service construction company. Today, they operate executive offices in the Northwest Territories and Alberta and are engaged in projects across the territories, provinces and Alaska. Dowland responds to changing conditions with a positive attitude and their diverse teams are leaders in developing solutions. Health and Safety as well as Quality Control in Dowland work are top priorities and hallmarks of Dowland’s commitment to its employees and clients.

Dowland is the benchmark for building in the North and, with 25+ years’ experience, is the builder of choice for industrial, institutional, commercial and infrastructure projects from coast to coast to coast.

The Ontario Division office of Dowland opened July 1, 2012 in Thunder Bay. About PTH

Zhang rutang Chairman of PTH China and Patrick McGuinness President and CEO of Dowland, sign agreement Established in 2003, PTH China is an ISO9001 certified company headquartered in the in the Binnhai development zone of Shaoxing, China. PTH devotes itself to the manufacturing of pre-engineered buildings, research and design, construction installation and service of their PTH brand.

It has a production facility of more than 45,000m 2 including 35,000m2 workshops and 150 employees with 30 engineers and 35 senior skilled workers. The facility is equipped with more than 100 sets of advanced production lines to ensure the superior quality and production capacity capable to meet the demand.

offices in Edmonton as well as offices where where we operate. The company began in the early 80’s and currently has about 425 employees depending on the

businesses. There may be multi year opportunities in the communities. We are spread from Alaska to BC and Thunder Bay and offer many services. We can

For more information on Dowland Contracting Ltd.: www.dowland.ca

Patrick McGuinness President and CEO of Dowland, principal shareholder who is a CA and been with the company for 10 years. Their head office in the Northwest Territories and they have administrative

Terry Chu, General Manager of PTH Canada with Zhang rutang Chairman of PTH China and Ray Williamson of Dowland jobs at hand. “ It is a huge long term strategic move opening the office here in Thunder Bay. Thunder Bay and the region is very like the area we work in now and acts as a support city for the hinterland. We have a great partner with Wasaya. The opening up of resource opportunities in this area ties in well with our business as well, so it is a good for us.” “ Some of our projects are in towns of under 500 people. We always try to use as much local resources from local small

focus on many different markets. Don Wing has been great to have on board.”

Don Wing of Dowland “ For Dowland to come into NW Ontario and make the investment here is incredible. We need to build relationships and a strong team which we have already. You need trust and the Wasaya Dowland relationship is a good one.”

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2012

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2012

Phase 2 Feasibility Report on Proposed Event Centre Released The completed Phase 2 Feasibility Study Report on a proposed Thunder Bay Event Centre will be presented to Council as a first report on Monday, Oct. 15.

The consulting team, using a broad-based Site Evaluation Matrix, is recommending the Downtown/Waterfront site because it offers the greatest short- and long-term benefits. A flexible, multipurpose facility is recommended that will include both spectator and conference components including 5,700 seats and a 50,000 square foot conference centre with major meeting rooms and a banquet hall for up to 1,000. Based on the Phase 2 Feasibility Study, the proposed Event Centre will have significant one-time and ongoing direct economic benefits to the City. The corporate report recommends moving forward with an initial Request for Expressions of Interest related to private sector interest in the project.

knowledge of Event Centres are recommending that the Downtown/Waterfront site presents the greatest immediate and future benefit.”

Based on the Phase 2 Feasibility Study, a number of positive economic benefits are expected as a result of construction and operation of the proposed Thunder Bay Event Centre. During operations, 265 to

The report process has been designed to provide time for Council and interested members of the public to review and consider the findings and recommendations.

The report is available for public review at www.thunderbay.ca/eventcentre and at City Hall, and a public meeting will be held on Nov. 21 with a presentation at 7 pm at the Thunder Bay Community

380 full-time jobs will be created with annual employment income of about $5 million. The proposed Centre will support more than $20 million in new spending annually including $6 million in visitor spending.

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Auditorium. The Corporate Report will then be discussed by Council on Monday, Nov. 26.

"Subject to Council's approval, the next step in the process is a detailed design and financial/business plan which would include exploration of funding opportunities and public/private partnerships,” said Tim Commisso, City Manager. “We have already invested more than two years of work in the development of this major project and there will be several more years ahead to put all the pieces in place.

We have a proven track record with Prince Arthur's Landing and we can bring that expertise to bear to create a destination for residents and visitors that will continue the transformation of our city."

Qs & As What economic benefits are expected?

A number of positive economic benefits are expected as a result of construction and operation of the proposed Thunder Bay Event Centre. During construction, about $150 million in direct and indirect spending is expected together with $80 million in employment income growth and about 1,125 person years of employment. During operations, 265 to 380 full-time jobs will be created with annual employment income of about $5 million. The proposed Centre will support more than $20 million in new spending annually including $6 million in visitor spending.

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What is the projected cost?

Total overall cost is approximately $106 million. This includes $92.6 million for the Event Centre facility (including site works and a new pedestrian overpass), $7.23 million for a new 200-stall parking structure and $6.3 million for facility “fit up” (including public art) and relocation of the Hydro substation.

Why is Innova Park not the recommended location?

The Business Park ranked lower on the Site Evaluation Criteria in all categories except parking and access. However, dedicating over 1,000,000 square feet of land to periodic surface parking would underutilize valuable development land. Innova Park continues to be appropriate as a business park. Most of the sales of properties in Innova have happened in the last three years. Its location near Lakehead University, Confederation College and Thunder Bay International Airport is more supportive of its use as a business park.

The potential for a significant new mining and industrial cluster (i.e. supply and services) within Innova Business Park is consistent with the City's long-term vision for this site.

“The Downtown/Waterfront site is exceptional in terms of character and potential,” said Conrad Boychuk, Senior Director, CEI Architecture, lead on the Phase 2 Feasibility Study. “A new Event Centre on this site would result in a truly unique entertainment venue that will garner national attention, build on the success of Prince Arthur’s Landing, and promote Thunder Bay as an event destination.”

"For more than two years citizens have told us that they are solidly in support of a new Event Centre providing it's affordable and a catalyst for economic growth of the City and region,” said Mayor Keith Hobbs.

“The consulting team with a wealth of

- combined with Prince Arthur's Landing will create a unique synergy as a destination for residents and visitors

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Why is the Downtown/Waterfront the recommended location?

The Downtown/Waterfront site: - scored higher in the Site Evaluation Matrix (79.7 compared to 63.1 for Innova) - is consistent with general consensus that Downtown North is the entertainment district or precinct - will be a critical element in the transformation of the historic downtown Port Arthur, similar to many precedents in both Canada and the United States

Will there be enough parking at the Downtown Waterfront location?

Yes if, as recommended by the Consulting Team, a 200-stall two-level parking structure is built nearby the Event Centre. The site sits within the context of existing parking made up of both public and privately owned stalls to support day-to-day activities. There are also over 200 privately-held parking stalls within the area that could be dedicated to event parking, according to owners.

What's next?

Subject to Council's approval of the Phase 2 Feasibility Study on November 26, the proposed next step is preparation of a Detailed Facility Development and Financial Plan/Business Plan (“Project Ready Plan”) in 2013. This will include Expressions of Interest for possible Public Sector and Private Sector involvement.

If the project moves forward, how will it be funded? and is it affordable?

Subject to the approval of the Phase 2 Feasibility Report, Phase 3 will include a strategy for funding the project based on a higher level of design, a more detailed estimate of probable costs and a refined business plan. The proposed Event Centre project requires significant one-time financial support from other orders of government and the private sector to be realized over the next few years. A preliminary Option for City funding of 33.3% would require $35.4 million. Of this, $25 million is currently in place through Renew Thunder Bay (an interest bearing reserve fund) and a further $8 million will need to be confirmed in 2013/14. This option assumes combined Federal and Provincial financial support of $55.7 million and private investment of $15 million. New debt of $2.4 million would be required for the new parking structure (1/3 share of cost). As detailed planning for the various phases of the project are completed, Administration will provide additional reports to City Council outlining future financial implications.

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2012

PAGE 9

Privacy Matters in the Health Sector ©2012 Brian Babcock Personal health information is highly sensitive and private. All businesses that handle private health information need to consider the effect of a ruling on how cancer screening results should be communicated.

Ontario’s Privacy Commissioner ordered that Cancer Care Ontario stop delivering paper copies of screening reports to doctors. Until the ruling Cancer Care Ontario used Canada Post’s Xpresspost service.

The ruling followed a self-report by the organization that the delivery of a number of the screening reports could not be confirmed.

Although the ruling only applies to these reports, the Commissioner would likely apply similar principles to any other private information. In announcing her deci-

sion, the Commissioner said that “other, more viable, more secure and privacy protection options were available.”

She said that the Order highlights the fact that organizations:

privacy laws, so this reasoning may affect us all. It illustrates a point I made in an earlier column - privacy policies must be put into action through effective practices and procedures.

• Need to evaluate available options; • Review available technological solutions; and • Be prepared to justify its methods.

This decision also illustrates how best practices may change over time. At one time, concerns about web security were such that hard copy delivery was assumed to be more secure. As encryption and other technology have advanced, we see time and again how human error makes paper records insecure. Electronic transmittal or storage may not be the ultimate solution for every private record, but this Order means that every business needs to review and reconsider how it stores and handles private data.

Every business in Ontario is an “organization” under either Federal or Provincial

The Order also required additional training of CCO staff, including contractors, which

Legal Matters

is a reminder that: • Training is a process, not an act, and must be continuous or regularly updated; and • An organization’s privacy obligations extend not only to how employees handle information, but also to contractors. Does your courier leave your confidential information unattended?

Cancer Care Ontario had access to the most sophisticated consultants in the business, and yet its interpretation of that advice was found to be flawed. This sets a high standard for the rest of us, but it is one that we must aspire to achieve.

Weilers has advised health care professionals and organizations for over 65 years, and proudly continues that tradition with progressive advice on privacy law.

ISSUES FILLING CITY'S PLATE Just when you thought things were settling down there is always something to occupy Council and the citizens of our fair City.

After the Municipal Golf Course reversal, the site selection of our Event Centre is creating quite the buzz. Then recent debate over the future use of a large parcel of land formerly known as Sir John A MacDonald school has alerted our elected representatives as well as our civic administration that we are fast running out of developable land for residential housing.

How did this occur you may ask? From my earliest days on Council the lands known as Parkdale were planned to accommodate most of the City's population expansion with infill and strict guidelines on rural splits expected to direct and control growth.

The multi multi-million dollar trunk sewer line was built to handle 75,000 people ! A Community Plan showed lots of amenities, schools, access/egress points on the west, south, north and east. The eastern link was

to be an extension of Churchill Drive which was quashed. Then the fan got hit when the MNR redrew the boundaries of the Williams Bog around 1990. This natural-flowing water system was then fully protected thus wiping out housing for 20,000 potential residents. Had this been known in the mid-seventies it is highly unlikely the City would have proceeded

with such a huge capacity system to service Parkdale.

Today those homeowners must apply in many cases to the Conservation Authority for building permits that may affect the integrity of the bog. You may ask that in this era of global warming why doesn't the

Mauro announces Ontario Government Investments in Local Businesses Ontario is supporting two Thunder Bay businesses through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC): • Aviation InterTec Services Inc. • NWO Golf Development & Fitting Centre The replacement of a software program code will allow Aviation InterTec Services Inc. to port their software to a mobile platform. In response to new and changing client operating systems, this transition will enable the company to support crossbrowser use of their flagship product, Remote Access Aviation System (RAAS).

NOHFC has approved funding in the amount of $98,000 towards the company’s project of rendering RAAS compliant with multiple browsers.

NWO Golf Development & Fitting Centre, the first year-round training and high-tech golf fitting company in Northwestern Ontario, is being undertaken to service Thunder Bay and region in the instructional, development and equipment fitting areas of golf. It will be the only golfing facility with the 3D Doppler HD ball and club tracking system (Flightscope) for fittings with a simulator option to play in winter months. NOHFC funding in the

amount of $25,000 will allow the purchase of a Flightscope, training aids and equipment, office equipment, and to begin marketing this business.

“I am always happy when our NOHFC program can support & enhance local entrepreneurs. Small business is the backbone of our economy. It is our hope that they remain successful and grow to create further local employment.”

– Bill Mauro, MPP Thunder Bay-Atikokan “I am extremely honored to except this Grant from the NOHFC as I look forward to the future in launching NWO Golf Development & Fitting Centre. This Grant will allow the company to expand and service Northwestern Ontario to create new jobs in the golf industry around the instruction, fitting, development and coaching areas of the business. The center piece of the business will revolve around the flightscope and for more information about the product you can visit www.flightscope.com. Also, for further information about NWO Golf and its development programs please call 807-630-GOLF. – Dustin Wilson, PGA of Canada – Head Teaching Professional NWO Golf Development & Fitting Centre

bog simply dry up? It apparently is quite resilient and has enormous absorption capacity.

So where do we put the people we are hoping to attract here? Some private holdings have around 5 to 7 years of supply but in general the amount of City-owned or controlled land for personal development or public housing is limited and diminishing. And here's a question -when was the last large apartment building constructed in our hometown?

If you have ever travelled west on any highway or arterial road in early morning you will see enormously long lines of traffic streaming into the City, and of course the same thing happens when the work day winds down with westbound traffic jamming the roadways. This should be taken somewhat as a good sign that people are working and can afford vehicles. It also confirms that the rural countryside is being populated and probably beyond its capacity for dependable servicing. By this I mean the stretching of water, waste disposal, policing, all-season road and bridge main-

tenance, telecommunications and emergency services.

It means of course that it is not just the City of Thunder Bay that must deliver prompt public services to its residents- it is understood that our neighbouring municipalities and indeed Fort William First Nation are facing infrastructural issues.

So when a municipality has a chance to save some money-I say we should seize the opportunity (Municipal Golf Course at $200,000 annually is a Million Dollars in 5 years). When a municipality has a chance to trigger federal or provincial assistance to replace past due date structures such as the Gardens-then I say do it and plan it right!

Respectfully submitted, Ken Boshcoff Councillor at Large So the budget session is coming upon us and I invite you to call, write, or email your favourite elected representative

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2012

Local Artist Makes Donation To Thunder Bay and Area Victim Services Organization

BY SCOTT A. SUMNER

Thunder Bay BUSINESS “ I wanted to make this donation because I believe victim care is extremely crucial and important. My experience through an abusive relationship made me know how important that was. I wanted to do everything I could to help victims,” said Tessa

Charlevois. “ I went through a lot of emotions, I was scared, fearful and had a lot inside of me. When I was working with

charcoal I was able to release all those emotions. It was my own therapy and I felt good when I did my artwork.”

Tessa Charlevois started painting as a youngster. “ It has driven me and my creative senses helped me. Right now I work as an artist, bartender and waitress. I would love to move to Montreal and go to school there to become a full time artist after taking fine arts. When I am ready I

would like to volunteer at the Thunder Bay and Area Victim Services organization.”

Deborah Dika is the Program Manager for Thunder Bay and Area Victim Services. “ This money will go to victims of domestic violence. We are hoping to put together a kit to hand out to victims so that they can have the information on what to do and who to call,” said Deborah Dika. “ Our organization has been around since 2002.

We provide services to victims of crime or tragic circumstance by partnering with the emergency personal in the City of Thunder Bay. “

have left and we pride ourselves on having an immediate response time. Just being there to hear their stories is incredible,” said Deborah Dika. “ We are proud of Tessa and see the growth in her. We went through the whole court process with her and saw her strength come out. Seeing her go from a victim to a survivor was absolutely incredible. Her artwork is beautiful. There aren’t a lot of victims that will come forward so for one victim to provide this type of media coverage and art exhibition to help victims of domestic violence is incredible.”

Thunder Bay and Area Victim Services will provide short-term emotional support to victims. “ Most of the time we are the first person in the door after the police

Tbaytel’s Purchases the Dryden DMTS Mobility Dryden City Council unanimously approved Tbaytel’s offer to purchase the DMTS Mobility customer assets at a special open Council meeting this evening.

With the successful completion of all closing requirements Tbaytel will be in a position to begin serving DMTS Mobility customers by the end of October or early November 2012. Transition planning is underway that will ensure that all DMTS Mobility customers are moved to Tbaytel before DMTS Mobility turns down their current network on December 15, 2012.

Tbaytel will be contacting all DMTS Mobility customers by direct mail within the next two weeks outlining the details of the transition. DMTS Mobility customers will benefit from greater access to a full suite of mobility services from Tbaytel that includes access to the latest in handset technology and smartphones; mobile content applications; world-wide international roaming; a nationwide network and enhanced capabilities for high speed mobile data.

“Tbaytel is very pleased to be able to provide services to our new Dryden customers and we welcome them all to the region’s largest wireless network,” said Don Campbell President & CEO, Tbaytel. “Our goal will be to ensure a seamless customer transition to our services.”

“With the consolidation of our services and

technology, Tbaytel is positioned in the marketplace to bring increased value to our customers and the communities we serve in Northern Ontario,” added Campbell. “We are continuing to invest in our neighbourhood and we are committed to providing best in class network and services to all of our customers in our region.”

Closing of the purchase will be subject to customary terms and conditions, including regulatory approvals from Industry Canada and the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission.

Tbaytel is the leading communication solutions provider in Northern Ontario and is dedicated to delivering advanced, competitively priced telecom solutions to ensure people, businesses and communities have multiple points of access to the global Tbaytel Purchases Dryden Mobility communications highway. Tbaytel delivers the region’s largest 4G HSPA+ digital cellular coverage with extensive products and services that include data, voice, wireless,internet, security and digital tv. With over a century of contributing to the quality of life, infrastructure and economic health of the North, Tbaytel’s commitment to regional customers and our understanding of rural market dynamics is unparalleled.

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2012

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TBRHSC Breaks Ground on New Health Services Centre Thunder Bay, Wednesday, October 24, 2012 - To mark the official groundbreaking at the future site of a new health services centre on Oliver Road, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre’s President and CEO Andrée Robichaud, City Councilor Iain Angus, and Tom Jones Jr. of Tom Jones and Sons put their shovels to the ground today.

“As we continue to put the patients of Northwestern Ontario and their families at the centre of everything we do, we see the advantages of expanding our capacity in order for us to help our patients become healthy together,” said Andrée Robichaud, TBRHSC President and CEO. After a competitive, transparent procurement process, TBRHSC is working once again with Tom Jones Corporation and FORM Architecture Engineering to construct the new facility.

Tom Jones Jr. said he is looking forward to building on the success of the Medical Centre at 984 Oliver Road.

“The new building represents a tremendous opportunity for the Health Sciences Centre to expand its services, as well as an opportunity for commercial expansion, such as physicians’ offices and a pharmacy,” said Jones.

The existing Medical Centre is home to many of the Health Sciences Centre’s essential programs and services including the Bariatric Care Program, Internal Medicine Clinic, Regional Stroke Program, Stroke Prevention Clinic, the Maternity Centre and Tamarack House, a home away from home for cancer patients from as far away as White River or the Manitoba border.

“Providing the right care at the right time in the right place is not only more appropriate for patients and families; it is more costeffective,” said Robichaud. “The new health services centre will further expand the range of programs and services available to patients and families, including Cardiac Services, conveniently close to the Health Sciences Centre.”

The new 75,000 square foot facility provides even more space for TBRHSC programs and services and regional partners in health, and also offers opportunities in both the public and private sectors.

“The delivery of healthcare needs to takes place within healthy environments, and we are proud to be part of the team building such an environment,” said Cory Stechyshyn, Architect and partner with FORM Architecture Engineering.

Stechyshyn discussed the environmental and sustainability features of the new building, that include maximizing the southern exposure for winter solar heat gain and maximizing natural daylight throughout the year.

City of Thunder Bay Councilor Iain Angus also welcomed the announcement of a new health services facility, particularly in light

Tom Jones Jr, Manager of Tom Jones and Sons Limited, City of Thunder Bay Councilor Iain Angus, and Andree Robichaud, TBRHSC President & CEO of the Health Sciences Centre’s Strategic are making a large commitment and see the together to build this building and an excitPlan and guiding principle of Patient and the growth in the hospital.” ing addition to the health care campus. The Family Centred Care. building will be a healthy environment that “I congratulate the TBRHSC and its partCory Stechyshyn Partner and Architect with is energy efficient. We hope to high lite that ners on their next stage of expansion which Form. with this building.” demonstrates their commitment to deliver“ It is unique in how they brought the team ing high quality healthcare to patients and their families in Northwestern Ontario.”

Andree Robichaud, TBRHSC President & CEO “ It really demonstrates that we are making progress on our journey to become an academic health sciences centre because some of our expansion is to do with NOSM and Lakehead University. Cardiac Services out patient basis may be moved here to save our space in the main building for acute care.”

Scott Potts of TBRHSC administration “ We anticipate about 15,000 to 25,000 square feet from our site coming to this building. We have great interest from other tenants to locate in this building as well.

There is synergy being located here rather than somewhere else.”

Tom Jones Jr, Manager of Tom Jones and Sons Limited. “ We will look after the development, are property managers and will be shareholders in this new building along with the hospital and others. This will be at least a $15 million project. We are looking at different family health teams and new recruits to Thunder Bay. In the other building on site we manage there is currently only 1500 square feet available out of 72,000 square feet so there has been a strong demand. It will be early 2014 when we are ready for occupancy. It will be likely 3 or 4 years before we get the building fully leased. We

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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS NOVEMBER 2012