THUNDER BAY PORT EXPERIENCING ANOTHER EXCELLENT SEASON!
INSIDE How To Get $500 Each Year From The Government First Nations Natural Resources Youth Employment Program Exposes Students to
Careers in Natural Resources Skin Cancer Screening Clinic hosted at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC)
North Superior Publishing @tbay25
4th Easter Seals Drop Zone
Skin Cancer Screening Clinic (TBRHSC)
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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS SEPTEMBER 2015
Not Just Another Law School © 2015 Brian Babcock When Lakehead University first applied for accreditation of a new Faculty of Law, one of the reasons given for refusal was that Ontario did not need another law school- with the influx of foreign law
Legal Matters school grads, several hundred students a year already graduated without finding work. So LU and supporters went back to the drawing board and won accreditation by designing a curriculum that assures the Law
Society and the Province that LU Law is NOT just another law school. It is a very special law school. The “unemployment crisis” facing students always was largely a GTA problem – in Northern Ontario, we often had trouble finding good new lawyers to work with us. The emphasis of LU Law is training lawyers for northern and small town practice- “Main Street not Bay Street.” Instead of securities law, students take courses they will need for a general practice serving local businesses and real people. The differences only start there. LU Law also requires that students take courses on aboriginal issues and resource law.
Wherever possible, courses are taught with a northern, first nations or small town perspective woven into the core material. So when I taught Remedies, one of the discussion topics was the unique aspects of calculating damages when First Nations people are injured or killed. We looked at valuing illegally cut trees. What makes LU most unique, though, is the overall Integrated Practice Curriculum. Each semester, students take more course hours than at other schools, so that in one semester of third year, they serve a placement working in a real law office while ending up with the same course hours as other schools. The IPC also has more required courses than most law schools, and features practical elements in most courses (at most law schools, in Contracts class, students never draft a contract, at LU they
do). In second year the Civil Practice program walks students through a typical litigation case, not just discussing rules and theory, but actually drafting pleadings and motions. The first placement students arrive this month (we at Weilers are lucky to host two). Placements take the place of the traditional ten months of articling or apprenticeship, so students will be “practice ready” almost a year sooner than graduates of other schools. LU Law is truly not just another law school, and Northern Ontario should have no shortage of good new lawyers for years to come.
Thunder Bay & District Humane Society Invites the Community to Pawty Down with Hopes to Reach Fundraising Campaign Goal
For further information please visit tbdhs.ca or find the Back to the 80s Pawty Night Event Page on Facebook.
THUNDER BAY BUSINESS SEPTEMBER 2015
Publisher’s Note Scott Sumner The First Nations Natural Resources Youth Employment Program (FNNRYEP) has more than 55 participants learning about archaeology, geography, dendrology, sustainable energy sources, entrepreneurship, aboriginal mentorship and more this week during a Science Camp at Confederation College and Lakehead University. Since 2000, Outland Camps has partnered with Confederation College to offer the FNNRYEP to provide employment and learning opportunities for First Nations youth. To date, the partnership has resulted in over 355 participants being successfully trained, launching numerous careers in the Natural Resource sector. “We are proud to have played a role in inspiring many First Nations youth to pursue post-secondary education and in some cases, natural resources career paths,” said Riley Burton, Chair of the School of Engineering Technology and Trades at Confederation College. “Not
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First Nations Natural Resources Youth Employment Program Exposes Students
only does the program provide participants with meaningful employment throughout the summer, it also helps to further develop their skills and gives them a real-world experience while they learn.” > Lakehead University and Outland Camps have formed a new partnership this year to expand the program. Called the Mink Lake First Nations Youth Employment Program (MLFNYEP), the experience mirrors that of the FNNRYEP.
“We are excited to be a part of this program,” said Dr. Todd Randall, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Environmental Studies. “This is an excellent way to introduce young Aboriginal people to their choices for postsecondary education in the region, and it makes this experience less daunting.” Mark Kmill, Field Supervisor at Outland Camps, spoke to the partnerships with both institutions. “We are thrilled to be working with both Confederation College and Lakehead University to empower Aboriginal youth through a focus on leadership development, social skills and work ethic,” he said. “Seeing participants’ self-esteem and skill-sets grow throughout the program solidifies the value it provides.” Today, participants from both programs learned about archaeology and had the opportunity to perform an authentic archaeological dig at Lakehead University on a 7,000 year-old site. Throughout the week, each program fol-
lows its own schedule, but the two groups come together several times to maximize the learning experience and opportunities. The week has included field trips to local facilities and has welcomed guest speakers from Confederation College, Lakehead University and the natural resources industry. Topics included dendrology, health and fitness, biomass energy, entrepreneurship, aboriginal mentorship and more. FNNRYEP participants will return to their home base at Sandbar Camp (near Ignace), while MLFNYEP participants will return to Mink Lake. Both programs will continue through mid-August, with closing ceremonies taking place at Quetico Provincial Park on August 20. Funding for both programs is provided by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, Canadian Forest Services and industry partners.
Graduation celebration a happy ending for former Everest College students ing class. The class included eight, but one graduate was not able to attend the event. Thanks to an agreement between Cambrian and Confederation, the former Everest students were able to resume classes May 4,
– Group photo: Seven of eight Confederation College Medical Laboratory Assistant graduates attended a ceremony held at Cambrian College on August 19. Eight former Everest College students enjoyed a special celebration on Wednesday, August 19. Graduates received a Medical Laboratory Assistant certificate from Confederation College, after completing their studies in Sudbury at Cambrian College. During the ceremony, Cambrian College President, Bill Best, and Confederation College’s Associate Dean of the School of Health & Community Services, Shane Strickland, applauded the graduates for their resilience and their perseverance. It was an emotional day that marked a major milestone for the graduates, who shared many hugs and smiles with classmates, faculty, friends, family, and guests. “It was a huge shock when Everest closed in February,” said Serena Williams, who graduated on Wednesday. “We were so unsure about what would happen to us, and we didn’t know what to do except wait. After everything that’s happened, this feels amazing,” she said, with her certificate in hand. Another graduate, Lorieann Whittaker, earned special distinction at the ceremony when she received the Academic Award of Excellence from Confederation for having the highest overall average of her graduat-
using Ministry-approved curriculum from Confederation and lab facilities at Cambrian.
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GET INSPIREDNOW! HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO DO! By Sherry Aalto
Go to Inspired Cabinetry, located at 1134 Rolland Street, Thunder Bay. Inspired Cabinetry has just celebrated their first year in business. Opening their doors just 12 months ago, July 2014, they are considered to be up there in the ranks of what you should expect from professionals in the industry of cabinetry. They ARE the ‘One Stop Shop’ if you are thinking of updating your kitchen cabinets or wanting to please your senses with a totally new design for the place we all consider the ‘heart of the home’. Inspired Cabinetry showcases five actual kitchens for you to view and experience colour, under-counter lighting, manufacturing materials, design and styles that will have you excited with ‘Aaaaaawe!!!’ Owners, Rob Cianfagne, Domonic Cianfagne and Adam Cianfagne, insist on the best in quality in products and in manufacturing. With top brand names in granite and stone, along with materials for manufactured cabinets and hardware systems, you will be literally filled with anticipation of your dream come true! You might not recognize these brand names in hardware like, Richelieu, Berenson and Hettich or granite from Centis Tile and Stone. And maybe you don’t even know who AyA (i’ya) Kitchens are? But you can be assured that the designers and project manger knows who AyA Kitchens are! And just to let you in on a little secret, they (AyA Kitchens) are a kitchen manufacturing company who manufacture in Mississauga and that the products are Canadian made.
It does not matter if your style is Urban, Traditional or of Classic preference, Inspired Cabinetry will work with you comfortably, to help you to create the design that best exemplifies YOU! Project Manager, Pasquale Izzo, along with the skilled installers, will see your dream through to its completion and you will be involved at every step of your project. Your design! Your inspiration! Your ideas and inspiration will take on a life of its own when you sit down with the expert and creative in-house, full service designers, Amanda Gabriele and Jen Davidson. Trena Larrett, who will greet you as you enter the store, will be happy to assist and work with you as well. And for your con-
venience, after hours consultations are also available and Trena can arrange this for you. An amazing ‘Showcase Selection
Room’ is also on site and offers 3D presentation for your design ideas and options. Continued
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Continued Offering comparably competitive pricing, for everything from entry level line cabinetry to custom manufacturing, there is something for everyone and at every price point. Individual customers, Contractors and Architectural Firms for commercial/industrial or residential builds and renovations are all
THUNDER BAY BUSINESS SEPTEMBER 2015
welcome. Contractor’s packages are also available. With years of experience in the industry, the qualified staff at, Inspired Cabinetry, are proud to say they build their reputation on YOUR satisfaction! So now you have no excuse! Don’t put your dreams on hold any longer! Most people wait until they really want
something before they get inspired to acquire the object of their affections! But, you can get inspired right now by just going to this address, 1134 Roland St, Thunder Bay, ON. Inspired Cabinetry opened Monday – Friday, 9:30 A.M. – 5:30 P.M. and Saturday 10A.M. until 3:00 P.M. Call (807)2861220 or on the web, www.inspiredcabinetry.ca .
Come in and see what your dream is waiting for you! Get Inspired Now!
THUNDER BAY BUSINESS SEPTEMBER 2015
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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS SEPTEMBER 2015
THUNDER BAY BUSINESS WOMEN’S NETWORK 30 YEARS COMMITTED TO ECONOMIC GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT By Sherry Aalto From its inception 30 years ago, the entire focus for the Thunder Bay Business Women’s Network IS and WAS, to support women, be it whether they are a proprietor or a business professional, in economic growth and business development for and of themselves, the business they are involved in and their communities. The Mission Statement: "The Thunder Bay Business Women's Network is an organization for business and professional women who are committed to the growth and development of themselves, their business and the community." The spin-off from such a network has not only helped to encourage economic growth in the community and region, but has also developed into a powerful network that showcases the true commitment of entre-
preneurs who are recognized for their impaling presence. For women in business, growth in innovative and marketable services and products to the community and region has not been an easy trail to blaze. The road less travelled is always filled with the unknown that challenges any entrepreneur, be it women or men, who that take the risk and plunge. The coming together of women in business was exactly what women in Thunder Bay saw as a very much needed tool to encourage other women to be in business and how to stay and grow in business. The inaugural meeting of the Thunder Bay Business Women's Network (TBBWN) was held on February 21, 1985 at the Valhalla Inn. Founding members DawneMarie MacLeod, Cathy MacKintosh and Cathy Hagberg were instrumental in organizing that first meeting. Seems like not so long ago and the sometimes painful growth earmarked recognizable strength in commitment to the adversity of this cause. The ground breaking process that took
place to initiate the inaugural meeting in 1985… is history in itself. Today, Treasurer, Lucy BeLanger, of Equipment World in Thunder Bay, affirms, the becoming a member of the Thunder Bay Business Women’s Network has been one of the best decisions she has ever made for herself when it comes to women in the business world. Ms. Belanger has been involved in the network for over 20 years and has served on the board of director for five of those years and is currently the treasurer for the last four years. She describes the network and fellowship/membership as a solid support net that goes beyond the professional aspect extending into strong, lasting friendships. Monthly meetings take place every third Tuesday with the fiscal year beginning in September until June of the following year, marking August as New Membership Enrollment month. On September 23, 2015, The Thunder Bay Business Women’s Network will celebrate 30 years of creating ‘Awesome’! The 30th Anniversary Jubilee for this event will be held at the Victoria Inn, located at 555 Arthur Street West, Thunder Bay, Ontario and will include a gala dinner, booths, networking, award ceremony and Special Guest Keynote Speaker, Jessica Holmes (as seen on Royal Canadian Air Farce). Jessica Holmes will entertain and enlighten
us on living an awesome life. Jessica gives quick, achievable ‘how to’s’ and more, in a laugh-out-loud hour of fun. Be sure to join us for a fun filled night of networking! The success of the Thunder Bay Business Women’s Network speaks for itself! With the membership growing every year, this organization is becoming more visible all the time. The organization invites any woman in business to join this dynamic network. Whether you work in an office or a business or if you own your own business in an established physical site or out of your home, this business network is the one thing you should become immersed in. This IS your next best decision! Membership pricing is currently set at $75.00 per annum, per membership, new or renewed but, in recognition for 30 years of successful network establishment, the Thunder Bay Business Women’s Network is offering membership for this fiscal year at $30.00. So now is the time to break the bank and break out of the mold and see what awaits you and create your own success story! Contact the Thunder Bay Business Women’s Network at General contact: Thunder Bay Business Women's Network Inc. P.O. BOX 10188 Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 6T7 30 Years Anniversary web page: http://www.30yearsoftbbwn.com
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SHOP LOCAL . . .REALLY! Yes…Really! Isn’t time to discover or even rediscover what great places there are to shop right here in Thunder Bay! With all the hype on cross-border shopping and on-line shopping, it is easy to get accustomed and excited about seeking out deals, deals, deals, when the world is at your finger tips. But wait! Before you even click the mouse…check out what you can actually buy here in Thunder Bay! Shop on line! Local vendors want you to access their web sites but, at the end of your search words in your tool bar type in… ‘/in Thunder Bay’! For everything we purchase for our families, ourselves, our homes, our friends,
should we not at least see what our local vendors have to offer? In a lot of cases, most anything we purchase across borders has a price close to what we would pay here at home…so why not keep the dollars at home? Everyone knows the importance of strengthening their own economy and it is no secret that a stronger economy secures more jobs and spin off and so on and so on. Those are two benefits of shopping local! Another benefit is the good feeling you get when you know you have exercised loyalty and supported your local vendor in your community! Vendors want to do well for their consumers. They want to develop a relationship with families for generations! And there is something to be said about that kind of recognition for both
consumer and vendor/local shop owners! Now, no one can shop local all the time, but wouldn’t it be nice if whenever we shop we make ‘did I try to shop local today’ our first option. The barter system is still in style, maybe not everywhere you shop, but if a consumer asks for a bit of a discount, most times the local vendor will check out the possibility to satisfy the request and when both parties are satisfied…a new relationship has just begun. Why do we want our locals to shop local? Because when shopping begins at home, everyone benefits! We want to encourage local support for our local businesses and build commerce in our city. Sometimes, as we meandour our way through our shopping sectors and we see another business has closed its doors, or we hear about
CARE TO DANCE? By Sherry Aalto 94 year old, Ernest Smith is an amazing gentleman who can still really cut the rug! Only problem is, according to Mr. Smith, is that, it is difficult to find a good partner
in these times! While dancing these days involves simply ‘getting out there and just jiggling it’ Ernest really likes to dance the Fox Trot, the Jitterbug, Jive and actually
waltz! Ernest likes to go to the Legion and kick up a storm but he is hard pressed to discover a partner that not only loves to dance but one that knows the dances from the ‘good ole days’! Ernest is also independent and loves to
take his dog Rosie for a walk a couple of times a day. He also likes to drive his covered scooter, and even though they are expensive, it serves his purpose just fine.
According to Mr. Smith, ‘This vehicle is great when it rains or snows and I can go just about anywhere with it!” Mr. Smith is very independent and enjoys the fact that he can still enjoy his life and get around to the dance halls. Mr. Smith extends an open invitation to anyone who would like to join him at the Legion for a little struggle out on the floor! So ladies...don’t be sitting home on a Saturday night when you can be dancing the night away. But remember…no fighting over Ernest!
a local vendor going out of business, we acknowledge some sense of disappointment, because it marks change and we know that business will more than likely never return. So… so?? What can w do to ensure our local businesses stay in business? We can try to shop at home first. We can ask our local vendor to send out for items we can’t find in their stores. We can see if we can get a better price from the local vendor. The bottom line is… “If I shopped today…could I have shopped local?” One local purchase at a time is all it takes to build a stronger local economy. That’s all it takes! As the old saying goes,… “We’ll be here, as long as you are here!”
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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS SEPTEMBER 2015
WESTFORT STREET FAIR 2015 Community celebrating Community! By Sherry Aalto One thing that is apparent to most everyone in Thunder Bay is that their dedication to community is very much alive and well! The artisans, musicians, shopkeepers and anyone who attended
other events taking place on the same day, West Fort Street Fair remains forever popular! The Westfort Street Fair never fails to bring the community together for a day of fun, food, music and reminiscence. The well known Blues Band, Southern Comfort, entertained the vast audience, despite the threat of rain and an overcast of
Maci 3years old loved the fair. Especially going down the slide. When I asked how are you enjoying the fair, there were a lot of smiles and a thumbs up! the 2015 Westfort Street Fair are a pure example of that! Saturday, August 22, 2015 marked the 33nd street fair for Westfort Village and even with so many
low cloud cover, coupled with some humid conditions. Dave Jonasson, band leader of Southern Comfort, never fails to deliver the best to his audience and is certainly a
big feature at this event. Mr. Jonasson has entertained internationally over the years and has a long personal presence in Thunder Bay’s music history that traces him back to the mid 1970’s. Tasty cuisine, prepared by local vendors, is
always a big draw when it comes to satisfying the taste buds!
Continued
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WESTFORT STREET FAIR 2015 Community celebrating Community!
The lions train for those who want to scope out the fair without walking. Bonnie King, Don King and Nan Wellington had a great time. Nan said she had the best sweet potato fries!
Continued
From the iconic hotdog to BBQ pork kabobs, to good ole pizza and fries, all topped off with a cold soft drink that always just hits the spot! Homemade baked goods were also available for sale
for pallet pleasing delights. There were also great bargains‌ bargains‌ and more bargains that the local shops and artisans were happy to offer. The Westfort Street Fair is the place where friends gather once a year for a good time and for 33 years, one could say this is becoming a part of history and will be
remembered by our young in their adult years. Face Painting is always popular for the children and pets like to get out and socialize a bit too! You never know who
you are going to meet? Informative and entertaining is all part of this event. Continued
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WESTFORT STREET FAIR 2015 Community celebrating Community!
Continued The historical and the well known Lakehead Shrine Club were part of the annual celebration and they were sure to have their booth and the Wee Train available to the patrons. The Lakehead Shrine Club brings help and hope for kids who
suffer from health issues and injury. Local crafted wares, along with other popular clothing and accessories were also available to satisfy the impulse shopper. Fair spokesman Jack Moro called this year’s fair a success. He believes around 8,000 people came out on Saturday. He believes the main appeal of the fair is its
sense of community. The merchants of Westfort would like to sincerely thank their patrons for their business over the last year and hope that everyone had a great time at the fair!
Don’t miss out next year!! Come and have yourself a great time in your community with fun, family and food in mind! Community celebrating Community!
What would a fair be without a clown. Polly the clown was a hut with her ballon figures. She brought a smile to many children's faces.
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Skin Cancer Screening Clinic hosted at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) Dr. Ron Mahler, Dermatologist, assesses a patient at the annual Skin Cancer Screening Clinic hosted at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) on Monday, August 17th, 2015. Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Canada and its incidence rates have been rising steadily since the 1980s. In 2014, an estimated 6,500 cases of malignant melanoma and 76,100 cases of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) were diagnosed in Canada. Of these diagnosed cases, approximately 1,500 Canadians will die from skin cancer (both melanoma and NMSC). The primary risk factor for skin cancer is exposure to ultravio-
let radiation (UVR) from the sun, tanning beds and sun lamps. Therefore, the best way to prevent skin cancer is to practice healthy sun safety behaviours (i.e. wearing a broad spectrum sunscreen and reapplying it often) and avoiding the use of tanning beds and sun lamps. For more information about how you can prevent skin cancer, visit http://www.dermatology.ca/programsresources/resources/sun-safety/.
How To Get $500 Each Year From The Government By Mike Morrow, CFP Education costs have long been a reality for parents, but the rising costs of post-secondary education have parents saving earlier and saving more. The undergraduate tuition for a full-time student at Lakehead University ranges from $6,900 - $8,500, depending on the program and the tuition for a full-time student at Confederation
College is $7,000. Then there are added expenses for books, fees, food and even more expenses for families whose children travel to other cities such as transportation, lodging and flights home. According to the Canadian Federation of Students, the average student debt load after graduation is $28,000. Consider that and the fact that Statistics Canada reported that the 2014 youth unemployment rate was 13.9%, which paints a fairly bleak picture. Parents and grandparents want to see their children get a good start in life, so they choose to save for their children's education. The Federal Government offers incentive for parents and grandparents who save for their child's education with a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP). The RESP is an investment account that can receive grants from the government based on the amount contributed. To enroll your child in an RESP, you must obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN) for the child. Tax-Deferred An RESP can be set up for any beneficiary including children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews or even family friends. You can contribute any amount up to a lifetime contribution limit of $50,000. You do not deduct the contributions from your income but the investment earnings are taxdeferred. When withdrawn from the plan, they are taxable to the beneficiary (the student), who will have a lower or zero tax rate. Canadian Education Savings Grant
When you contribute to an RESP, the Government of Canada will contribute as well with what is called a Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG). A CESG is 20% of each dollar you contribute up to $500 per year per child. In order to get the maximum annual RESP grant of $500, you must contribute $2,500 per year or $208.33 per month to the RESP account. The maximum CESG entitlement is capped at $7,200 per child, as the CESG matching stops at the end of the calendar year in which the beneficiary turns 17. The CESG is the biggest reason why RESP's are the best way to save for your child's education.
Carry Forward If you contribute less than $2,500 in any given year, your unused grant entitlement can be carried forward to a future year. The maximum CESG that the government will pay in any one year is $1,000 per beneficiary, based on contributions of $5,000 or more.
Flexibility You can decide how much money should be withdrawn and when it should be withdrawn. The withdrawals can be used for a variety of education costs including tuition, books and living expenses. If one child decides not to pursue higher education, you can either name an alternative beneficiary or divide the assets in the plan among any remaining children. Furthermore, if any child has higher education expenses than another child, they can receive more income from the plan, at the discretion of the plan’s subscriber.
For more information please contact Michael Morrow, CFP for all your financial and or group benefit needs: 200-905 Tungsten Street, Thunder Bay 684.1805 www.morrowfinancial.ca www.thebenefitexperts.com
In my opinion, the RESP is a dedicated savings plan to help pay for the exorbitant costs of education after high school. If you plan on helping your children pay for their education, then you should have an RESP. Choosing not to, is like throwing away free money.
RockinRecovery Day 2015 TakesThe Main Stage In Thunder Bay September 2nd, 2015
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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS SEPTEMBER 2015
4th Easter Seals Drop Zone BY SCOTT A. SUMNER
Thunder Bay BUSINESS The 4th Easter Seals Drop Zone had another very successful day with 60 partic-
ipants rappelling down 14 stories at Maplecrest Tower in Thunder Bay. Rhonda Harrison, Easter Seals “ This an unique opportunity with 14 stories right in the middle of town where peo-
ple collect pledges and rappel. They are the super heroes for the day for Easter Seals Kids.” “ We help families of children with physical disabilities purchase equipment and communication devices. We also have
camps for kids in Southern Ontario where we fly the kids from Thunder Bay to Southern Ontario for 10 days. Everything there is accessible and they are just like anyone else. They come back with experiences they carry with them.”
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Pack it Light. Wear it Right Starting a new school year, it is always a good reminder to review proper backpack safety for students and parents alike. Many acute and chronic back problems can be avoided or reduced with good spinal hygiene. The Ontario Chiropractic Association has been running a great program focused on backpack safety for decades now. Here is a summary: PACK IT LIGHT. WEAR IT RIGHT. Kids think it’s “cool” to strap on their
neck and arm pain, and even nerve damage. For example, a heavy backpack, carried on one shoulder, forces the muscles and spine to compensate for the uneven weight. This places stress on the mid and lower back, and may increase the likelihood of back problems later in life.
Backpacks can affect your children’s health Carrying a heavy load that is unevenly or improperly distributed can result in poor posture; and even distort the spinal column, throwing it out of alignment. This can cause muscle strain, headaches, back,
The right way to wear a backpack: Both shoulder straps should be used, and adjusted so that the pack fits snugly to the body, without dangling to the side. Backpacks should never be worn over just one shoulder. You should be able to slide your hand between the backpack and your child’s back. The waist strap should also be worn for added stability.
Prevention is key Here are a few pointers to help you help your school age children carry their load comfortably and safely. Choose the right backpack: Forget leather! It looks great, but it’s far too heavy. Go for vinyl or canvas. Pick a pack that has two wide, adjustable, padded shoulder straps, along with a hip or waist strap, padded back and plenty of pockets. Make sure the pack fits properly, is not too snug around the arms and under the armpits, and that its size is proportionate to the wearer’s body. Packing it properly:
backpacks and head out to school. But if they don’t know exactly how to choose, load, lift and wear them – these all-important accessories can be a pain in the back. Literally. Not to mention the neck, head, and shoulders.
and to bend at the knees.
They’re not moving out! Make sure your children’s packs contain only what is needed for that day, and that the weight is distributed evenly. It’s a good idea to know roughly what each item weighs. The total weight of the filled pack should be no more than 10 to 15 per cent of the wearer’s own body weight. Pack heaviest objects close to the body, and place bumpy or odd shaped ones on the outside, away from the back. Putting the backpack on: It’s a good idea to help young children with this, at least the first few times. Put the pack on a flat surface, at waist height. Slip on the pack, one shoulder at a time,
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. then adjust the straps to fit comfortably. Remember when lifting a backpack, or anything, to lift using the arms and legs
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THUNDER BAY BUSINESS SEPTEMBER 2015
THUNDER BAY PORT EXPERIENCING ANOTHER EXCELLENT SEASON BY SCOTT A. SUMNER
Thunder Bay BUSINESS Nearly halfway into the 2015 shipping season, the Port of Thunder Bay continues to experience very strong cargo volumes. As of July 31, grain shipments through the port's elevators are 26% higher than the 5year average, and on-par with 2014, which was the strongest season for the port since 1997. The port experienced its second-best July for grain in 18 years, led only by July 2014. The month was strong for other cargoes as well, with coal, potash, dry bulk and general cargo volumes exceeding those posted last year. “ We are at about the same numbers as last year right now and that was the best year in 17 years so it is so far so good. There has been more diversified cargo this year as we have been successful with structural steel, wood pellets, components
for the oil sand and a gold mine in Fort Frances,” said Tim Heney CEO Thunder Bay Port. “ We have used the large crane on a lot of the shipments and some of them are here because of the crane so it has been a success.” “ We have 8 operating grain elevators in Thunder Bay today which means we have a huge storage capacity. Thunder Bay Port was the largest in North America at one point. The big tonnage we are doing now
is nowhere near what the port could do physically. There are also other elevators which are not operational anymore,” said Heney. “ The Thunder Bay Port owns two elevators. One is a site we bought to redevelop and the other is operational but can only do certain things as there is a covenant.” Thunder Bay is one of the biggest ports in Canada geographically and the farthest inland in Canada. Most of the cargo that goes through is Canadian. Many of the other ports in Canada like Prince Rupert, Halifax, Montreal and Vancouver handle foreign cargo mostly US bound. Thunder Bay is the true Canadian facility on the
seaway. “ We are in a renaissance period now with new ships and lots of work on the locks. It is very gratifying to see the new investment happening,” said Tim Heney. “ Mobile X Grain for example is a new company in Thunder Bay using a facility that was ordinally used for iron ore, then potash and now grain- so a unique proposition. It is a direct hit facility so doesn’t use a elevator.” General cargo volumes have increased this year, with Keefer Terminal handling a variety of inbound shipments including mining equipment, structural steel, windmill blades, wood pellets and reactors. Thunder Bay Port Authority expects grain volumes this fall to drop off somewhat compared to last year, but still remain stronger than average. Despite indications that the Western Canadian grain harvest will not reach the record production experienced in the last two seasons, the catchment area for Thunder Bay has fared somewhat better than areas further west. Crop harvesting is also expected to be up
to three weeks ahead of schedule, meaning grain could reach the transportation system
earlier than usual.