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inside business

BI-MONTHLY MAY 2013

A TIMMINS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATION

Timmins’ entrepreneurial spirit was onfull display at the 2013 Nova BusinessExcellence Awards, as 600 people packedthe McIntyre Arena on April 11 to cele-brate the region’s most important busi-nesses and organizations.

Hosted by the Timmins Chamber ofCommerce for the 11th consecutive year,the sold-out event once again served tohighlight the best of local business.Sixteen awards were handed out across arange of categories at the event, whichwas emceed by Chamber President ArtPultz.

This year’s notable recipients are a signof the community’s talent and ingenuity,according to Gary Marriott and JoelBergeron, co-chairs of the Nova Awards’organizing committee.

“This year’s slate of awards nomineesand recipients really are in a class alltheir own,” said Marriott.

“They stand as a perfect example ofwhy Timmins has built a global reputa-tion as a centre for entrepreneurial excel-lence. Tonight’s recipients represent someof the best of the best, and it’s terrificthat we’re able to recognize their achieve-ments on such a grand scale.”

This perspective also helped to trans-form the McIntyre Arena for theevening’s gala celebration, which wasbased on the event’s theme of “We Arethe World” in recognition of the export

of Timmins products, knowledge andexpertise across the globe. Images of localcontributions to international projectswere used as decor throughout thevenue, where CTV Television’s MichelleToner interviewed the event’s finalists,organizers and community championson the Nova Awards’ own version of thered carpet. These segments were broad-cast live throughout the many flat-screentelevisions on display throughout thearea, which served to promote furtherconversation among attendees during thecelebration.

Other examples of Timmins talentwere on hand throughout the event, inthe form of local musical talent, horsd’oeuvres, snacks, and of course the high-class décor, all of which was supplement-ed by the hard work of countless volun-teers who donated their time to make itall happen.

“Timmins is renowned for its businesstalents, and when we talk about thewealth of resources in our region, weneed to remember that also includes theamazing people we have here,” saidBergeron. “We sometimes lose sight of

the full impact they have beyond ourbackyard, and we’re glad to have beenable to have made that the focus of thisimportant event.”

The recipients of the 2013 NovaAwards were carefully selected from morethan 90 nominations by a committee ofsix independent community judges,which changes every year. And as everyyear, these judges determine the 15award recipients without any input,influence or oversight from the ChamberBoard of Directors or staff, thereby ensur-ing the validity of the process and theresults. The only award not selected bythis committee is the President’s Award,which is selected by the current Presidentof the Timmins Chamber of Commerce;this year, the award went to XstrataCopper Kidd Operations.

“For the last 11 years, the Nova Awardshave been about showcasing Timminsbusinesses, and it’s a tradition we’reproud to have so successfully continuedonce again this year,” said Pultz. “Themany award recipients and nomineesreally do represent some of the best ofwhat we as a community have to offer,and we’re glad so many people havecome out to help celebrate them.”

See pages 6 and 7 for a complete listof winners and event photos.

The 2013 Nova Business Excellence Awards were handed out to 16 recipients from throughoutTimmins’ business community at a gala held at the McIntyre Arena on April 11.

Timmins Chamber announces2013 Nova Awards recipients

A full gallery of photographs from the 2013 Nova Awards,

are now availableon the Chamber’s Facebook page:

www.facebook.com/TimminsChamber

inside business2 - MAY 2013

From energy to workforcedevelopment and investment inthe North, the provincial priori-ties of the Timmins Chamber ofCommerce’s members wereheard loud and clear during apre-budget consultation sessionhosted by the government ear-lier this spring.

Held at the Cedar MeadowsResort & Spa on March 12, themeeting allowed ChamberPresident Art Pultz to directlyaddress the 13-memberStanding Committee onFinance and Economic Affairson behalf of the organization’sinterests. The committee,which consists of MPPs from allparties — including Timmins-James Bay MPP Gilles Bisson —heard from a number of region-al leaders for input on theprovincial budget.

Foremost among members’concerns is the issue of employ-ee shortages, an issue whichPultz pointed to as an area inimmediate need of attention.As an example, he pointed to arecent study by the FarNortheast Training Board show-ing that the mining sector inthe Cochrane district alone willrequire nearly 12,000 moreemployees over the next 10years; this is a significant prob-lem, given the shortage alreadyfacing nearly every business inTimmins, he added.

“Expand that number to allother sectors across theprovince, and the urgency sur-rounding this problem becomesclear,” said Pultz.

Potential solutions offered tothe government by theChamber include changingapprenticeship ratios to 1:1,something which the OntarioChamber of Commerce isalready examining in conjunc-tion with the Ontario College

of Trades.Pultz also outlined the

Chamber’s significant concernsabout the soaring cost of ener-gy, something that was repeat-edly brought up many of theother presenters to the commit-tee, including representativesfrom the Ontario ForestIndustries Association, and theFederation of Northern OntarioMunicipalities. This issue is aparticular challenge for

Timmins businesses, said Pultz,most significantly demonstrat-ed by the 2009 closure ofXstrata Copper’s KiddMetallurgical Site. Energy costswas a major factor for thismove, which eliminated 4,428direct and indirect jobsthroughout the province as wellas $237 million in salaries, aswell as a loss of local tax rev-enues. As such, Timmins busi-nesses are acutely aware of theneed for changes to energypricing, he said.

(This topic is something theTimmins Chamber is activelyworking to address with manyother partners across theprovince; for more informationon these efforts, please see therelated story on page 3.)

The Standing Committee alsoheard about the need to strate-gically invest in NorthernOntario, something which iscrucial for the health of theregion’s business community,said Pultz. This includes havingthe province reconsider thedivestment of the OntarioNorthland TransportationCommission (ONTC), givenindustry’s need for strong trans-portation infrastructure, andrail transport in particular. As areflection of this need, variousindustry groups have proposedalternative plans for the ONTC,making for the kind of grass-

roots solutions the provinceneeds to examine for the futureof the service, said Pultz.

“With proper funding, mar-keting and a strong, sustainablestrategic plan, the ONTC canand will provide the economicbackbone our region requires.”

This kind of approach is alsonecessary when approachingcollaborative development ofthe so-called Ring of Fire in theJames Bay Lowlands, said Pultz.With more than $50 billionworth of chromite and assortedminerals, this deposit stands tobe a multi-generational wind-fall for Northern Ontario busi-nesses and indeed the entireprovince, but only if theprovincial and federal govern-ments play a sufficiently strongrole. Transportation infrastruc-ture, power costs, environmen-tal approvals, and First Nationspartnerships all must beaddressed in a timely fashion inorder to maximize the benefitsof this once-in-a-lifetime oppor-tunity, he said.

“There are any number ofissues that will need to beaddressed in the comingmonths and years, and westrongly suggest the govern-ment move forward on thesefiles. Uncertainty has alreadyled to the project’s start datebeing pushed back to 2016, andquite likely beyond.

Strong measures to enhancethe Canadian labour market areamong the reasons the 2013 fed-eral budget is largely positive forthe local business community,according to the TimminsChamber of Commerce.

The federal budget, as tabledon March 21 by FinanceMinister Jim Flaherty, offers sev-eral opportunities for Timminsbusinesses, including:‰ The creation of a $300-mil-

lion Canada Job Grant, whichallows businesses to match costsfor employee skills training withthe federal and provincial gov-ernments, at $15,000 or moreper person; ‰ Apprenticeship improve-

ments, including greater mobili-ty between provinces;‰ $241 million over five years

to support employment oppor-tunities for First Nations youththrough the on-reserve IncomeAssistance Program;‰ A two-year, $225-million

extension of the Hiring Creditfor Small Business;‰ A two-year, $1.4-billion

extension of the temporary capi-tal cost allowance for manufac-turers who invest in machineryand equipment;‰ A two-year, $92-million

extension for programs toenhance forestry innovationand market development sup-port; ‰ A one-year extension of the

15-per-cent Mineral Exploration

Tax Credit for flow-throughshare investors.

“As a whole, the 2013 federalbudget offers some promisinglevels of support for Timmins-area businesses,” said TimminsChamber Vice-President PhilBarton.

“With workforce challengescontinuing to be one of ourmost significant local issues,we’re encouraged to note thatthe government has made somesignificant commitments to helpaddress the problem. Businessesneed the right people in theright jobs in order to succeed,and these measures are a posi-tive step towards that goal.”

One of the budget items ofparticular interest to theTimmins Chamber and its 800+members is the creation of the

Canada Job Grant, which pro-vides businesses with greaterauthority and broader optionsfor training prospective or exist-ing employees. This will allowemployers to upgrade skills bymatching funding with theprovincial and federal govern-ments, at $15,000 or more peremployee.

The budget also offers strongersupport for building the nation-al workforce. This includes amove to harmonize apprentice-ship requirements acrossprovinces and territories, allow-ing for greater mobility for suchworkers throughout the country.As many as 5,000 paid intern-ships for post-secondary institu-tions will also be supported by afederal $70-million investmentover three years.

First Nations training opportu-nities have also been proposed,with $241 million over fiveyears to support employmentopportunities for First Nationsyouth through the on-reserveIncome Assistance Program.

Money has also been allocatedto accelerating immigrationclaims, building upon other pos-itive measures to help provideindustry with much-neededemployees, said Barton.

A series of extensions to exist-ing, popular programs in thebudget will also assist Timminsbusinesses, such as the two-yearextension of the Hiring Creditfor Small Business, whichshould help transition thesepositions into the workforce.Manufacturers also stand to ben-efit from a two-year extension ofthe temporary capital costallowance for manufacturers,which will allow for continuedinvestment in machinery andequipment manufacturing.

Also of benefit to the region isan additional $92 million toenhance innovation and market-ing programs for forestry compa-nies, enhancing the $105 mil-lion committed in last year’sbudget. In another crucialresource sector, a further one-year extension of the 15-per-centMineral Exploration Tax Creditshould help to ensure that juniormineral exploration firms cancontinue to see incentives toinvest in places like Timmins.

However, the continued elimi-nation of tax credits for operat-ing mines, a process that beganin the 2012 federal budget,remains an ongoing disappoint-ment for the Timmins Chamber.

“Though there are a few smallpoints of concern, these meas-ures directly address some of ourregion’s more pressing issues,”said Barton. “With specific sup-ports for employment, smallbusiness, and investment in ourprimary industries, we look for-ward to working with ourprovincial and federal partnersto ensuring these changesstrengthen our business commu-nity, both in Timmins andbeyond.”

This point of view is shared bythe Canadian Chamber ofCommerce, which saw much tolike in the 2013 federal budget,despite some disappointment inits approach to research andinnovation funding.

Specifically, the organizationapplauded the federal govern-ment’s plan to balance thebudget by 2015, an ambitiousbut important goal, according toCanadian Chamber ofCommerce President and CEOPerrin Beatty.

“We think that’s going to betough, but it’s essential,” saidBeatty. “Much of our recent eco-nomic success is tied to our rep-utation as a prudent countrywhich follows through on its fis-cal plans.”

Timmins Chamber applauds workforce support in 2013 budget

Chamber President Art Pultz advocated for the interests of local businessduring a presentation to the Ontario government’s Standing Committee onFinance on March 12 at the Cedar Meadows Resort & Spa.

Chamber members have their say on provincial budget

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inside business MAY 2013 - 3

As soaring energy prices con-tinue to be a major concern forlocal businesses, the TimminsChamber of Commerce is takingaction to push the province forchange.

With input from its membersas well as its GovernmentRegulation and PolicyCommittee, the Chamber hasput together a series of recom-mendations for the Ontario gov-ernment to plan for reducingenergy prices over the longterm, while putting in placecost-saving programs for theshort term. To make sure theseplans can be properly carriedout, the province must alsoinvest in upgrading transmissioninfrastructure.

These recommendations camefrom extensive consultationswith Timmins businesses, whoare no strangers to the fullimpact of the high cost of ener-gy. Most notably, energy was asignificant factor in the closingof the local Kidd MetallurgicalSite in 2009. While the localeconomy has largely recovered,the price of power has contin-ued to rise, with much biggerhikes being forecast for the

coming years. In the coming months and

years, the Chamber will fight forthese issues on its members’behalf. In an effort to strength-en these efforts, the TimminsChamber reached out to itscounterparts across the provinceat the Ontario Chamber ofCommerce’s Annual GeneralMeeting, held in Chatham-Kenton May 3-5.

The specific details of eachpolicy are listed below. If you’dlike the complete documents,please contacthttp://bit.ly/XRs6xd.

Long-term energy planDeveloped in conjunction

with the Windsor-Essex RegionalChamber of Commerce and theMississauga Board of Trade, thispolicy argues that energy costsin Ontario are uncompetitivewhen compared to neighboringjurisdictions. According to arecent Hydro Quebec study ofelectricity rates in 22 utilities inNorth America, rates in Ontariowere in the top 10 for all cate-gories assessed and in the top 3for large power consumers. Thisstands as one of the most signif-

icant costs for many businessesthroughout the Timmins regionand beyond, and must beaddressed to ensure the viabilityof Ontario as a place to growand expand.

This policy recommends thatthe government of Ontario: 1)develop a long-term energystrategy to ensure Ontario busi-nesses are competitive in a glob-al market; 2) provide the publicwith regular reports and greatertransparency on the costs associ-ated with business energy bills;and 3) support the improve-ment of performance standardsand cost-effectiveness in theelectricity distribution sector.

Short-term incentive programs

As the previous policy pushesfor long-term solutions toOntario’s considerable energypricing problems, this policyargues for price relief to helpbusinesses in the short term.Developed in conjunction withthe Prince Edward County andQuinte West Chambers ofCommerce, this policy suggeststhat the province’s industrial

rate reduction programs are apositive step in helping businessto offset the cost of energy, butthey are in need of expansionand improvement. The provin-cial programs currently on offerare too restrictive in that theyonly apply to large industries,are geographically constrained,require flexibility in productionscheduling, and favour largenew project. As a result, the vastmajority of small and medium-sized manufacturers are unableto participate in these programs.

This policy recommends thatthe government of Ontario: 1)provides energy price relief tobusiness through the continueddevelopment and delivery ofrate reduction and incentiveprograms; 2) introduce measuresto allow small and medium-sized manufacturers to accessthe same electricity rates as larg-er firms; 3) ensure rate stabilityfor manufacturers who takeadvantage of energy conserva-tion programs.

Transmission upgradesWhile the province has agreed

that Ontario will require newrenewable energy generation to

address future demand, it hasalso acknowledged that existingtransmission infrastructure isinsufficient to transfer it tohigh-demand centres. In partic-ular, the province has identifieda number of potential projectsin Northern Ontario that couldserve these energy generationneeds, as well as transmissionimprovements that would berequired to accommodate them.This includes necessaryimprovements to the North-South Tie, a critical transmissionline running through Sudbury,Barrie and the Greater TorontoArea, allowing excess capacity tobe transferred between northernand southern Ontario.

This policy recommends that the government of Ontario:1) by 2015, commit to a specifictimeframe for resuming studies and investment in thereinforcement of the North-South tie; and 2) prioritizeinvestment in support-leveltransmission infrastructure toenable the capacity necessary fornew generation, in accordancewith long-term supply mixstrategies and economic devel-opment opportunities.

Timmins Chamber to fight for lower energy prices

The announcement of the2013 federal budget byCanadian Finance Minister JimFlaherty on March 21 markedseveral victories for both theOntario and CanadianChambers of Commerce, follow-ing months and years of lobby-ing on key issues.

For the Ontario Chamber ofCommerce (OCC), the federalbudget reflected some importantitems for which it had cam-paigned following its December2012 publication of A FederalAgenda for Ontario, including:

The extension of the mandatefor FedDev Ontario, the federalgovernment’s regional economicdevelopment program for south-ern Ontario. FedDev Ontariowill receive $920 million inadditional funding over fiveyears, starting in 2014.

The extension of the accelerat-ed capital cost allowance for newinvestment in machinery andequipment in the manufacturingsector, at nearly $1.4 billion.

Adjustment of training tobecome more responsive toemployer needs. While muchmore work needs to be done to

ensure a better training deal forOntario’s employers and work-ers, the OCC remains cautiouslyoptimistic.

The appointment of aMinister Responsible for theRing of Fire. This was a key askmade by the OCC in A FederalAgenda for Ontario.

The OCC has named theseachievements “evidence of anew, more rigorous federal focuson Ontario’s economy.”

With skill shortages cited asone of Canadian business’biggest challenges today, theCanadian Chamber ofCommerce (CCC) called on thefederal government to tacklethis barrier, as well as nine oth-ers that make up the CCC’s Top10 Barriers to Competitiveness.

In response to the CCC’srequests, the governmentincluded the following in its2013 budget:‰ The Canada Job Grant to

ensure more Canadians get theskills employers are seeking. Thegrant could potentially provide$15,000 or more per person,including a maximum federalcontribution of $5,000 and

matched contributions byprovinces/territories and employ-ers, towards training at eligibleinstitutions, including commu-nity colleges, career colleges andtrade union training centres. Thedesign of the grant is to be nego-tiated in the coming year.‰ $225 million to extend the

temporary Hiring Credit forSmall Business for one year. ‰ $19 million over two years

to inform young people abouthigh-demand fields of study,including the skilled trades, sci-ence, technology, engineeringand mathematics.‰ $70 million over three years

to support an additional 5,000paid internships for recent post-secondary graduates, ensuringthey get the valuable hands-onwork experience needed to tran-sition into the workforce.‰ Reallocating $4 million

over three years to work withprovinces and territories toincrease opportunities forapprentices, and other measuresto create opportunities forapprentices including throughinvestments in affordable hous-ing.

‰ Reforms to Canada’s immi-gration system to make it faster,more flexible and focused onCanada’s labour market needs.The government will reopen theFederal Skilled Worker Programwith an updated points systemthat gives more weight to factorsthat are directly related to eco-nomic success, like languageproficiency and youth. ‰ The government will

launch a new Start-up Visa toattract innovative immigrantentrepreneurs to launch theircompanies in Canada to helpcreate new jobs and spur eco-nomic growth. Lastly, as previ-ously announced, the govern-ment intends to create anExpression of Interest immigra-tion management system where-by Canadian employers,provinces and territories will beable to select skilled immigrantsfrom a pool of applicants thatbest meet Canada’s economic needs.

The Timmins Chamber ofCommerce will continue towork with these provincial andnational partners to ensure theirvoices are heard.

Ontario government asked to tackle skills gap

As part of its efforts to helpmake the province more com-petitive, the Ontario Chamber ofCommerce (OCC) has asked thegovernment to “focus more oncreating winning conditions forbusinesses” in its 2013 budget.

The OCC’s 2013 pre-budgetsubmission includes seven practi-cal steps to help grow the provin-cial economy, including tacklingthe provincial deficit, exploringnew ways of delivering publicservices, and investing in ways toexport Ontario to the world.

Citing massive labour short-ages, the submission also calls onthe Ontario Government to letemployers play a more promi-nent role in employment andtraining services. “It’s shocking tofind that 30 percent of employersin Ontario are having difficultyhiring someone with the rightqualifications,” added AllanO’Dette, president and CEO,Ontario Chamber of Commerce.

Read all of the recommenda-tions at occ.on.ca/assets/2013_Pre_Budget.pdf.

Updates from the Chamber network

inside business4 - MAY 2013

As the Chamber year rolls on,the organization’s many com-mittees continue to be hard atwork on advancing the interestsof the more than 800 memberson issues ranging from energy tolocal purchasing to networking.

These groups guide theChamber’s efforts to create astrong climate for business; thetopics reflect the prioritiesexpressed by Chamber mem-bers, and selected by the 21-member Board of Directors.Made up of volunteers, thesegroups meet regularly to discuss,advance, and develop policiesand action plans on issues thataffect Timmins businesses.

These committees and taskforces also build on the workcompleted over the past year bythe previous slate of advocacygroups, whose successes andfoundational efforts help tostrengthen this year’s projects.

If you’re interested in makinga difference by participating inone or several of the followingcommittees, please contact theChamber at (705) 360-1900, orvia email at pcdirector@timminschamber.on.ca.

Government Regulationand Policy Committee

Through this committee, theTimmins Chamber ofCommerce seeks the input of itsmembers on issues that affectthem, in order to help develop

and promote solutions at all lev-els of government. This year, theTimmins Chamber is tacklingthe problem of soaring energyprices and how they punishOntario businesses. With threepolicies that address the short-and long-term pricing of energyand its availability, the TimminsChamber will be approachingthe provincial government andthe Ontario Chamber networkto bring change on this issue.For more information on thesepolicies, please see the relatedstory on page 3.

Every year, this committeealso addresses national-levelissues on behalf of TimminsChamber members. Currently, itis seeking feedback from localbusinesses on concerns theyhave with federal regulations orpolicies that may be complicat-ing their ability to operate. Thegroup is looking at developingrelated policies by early June, inorder to be able to representTimmins business interests atthe Canadian Chamber ofCommerce’s annual generalmeeting being held in Kelownathis fall.

Municipal AffairsCommittee

Following the successful pres-entation of the Business ClimateImprovement: Report onDevelopment to Timmins CityCouncil in January, the

Municipal Affairs Committeealso offered an extensive set ofbusiness-focused recommenda-tions for the municipal budgetin March. This presentationincluded a range of items for theCity to consider, including con-tinued support of Timmins 2020activities, support and expan-sion of the CommunityImprovement Plan, and adop-tion of a focused, expansivetourism strategy. The recom-mendations also included a part-nership with the TimminsChamber to operate the TourismInformation Centre, and tomaintain existing business taxratios.

As it looks to the remainder ofthe 2012-2013 Chamber year,the Municipal AffairsCommittee is focusing on devel-oping recommendations toimprove the Victor M. PowerAirport.

Marketing andCommunicationsCommittee

This standing committee con-tinues to oversee the Chamber’smarketing communications,such as publications, fundrais-ing, sponsorship, member serv-ices, as well as Member of theMonth and various promotionalprograms.

In recent months, this com-mittee has begun to discuss the

development of training pro-grams for retail employees, aswell as a revised dues schedulefor the 2013-2014 Chamberyear.

The committee has also seenthe addition of three new volun-teers to the ChamberAmbassador team, which helpsto ensure that businesses aremaking the most out of theirChamber membership. Workalso continues on a series offocus groups to determine howthe Chamber can better addressmember needs with regards tocommunication, events, pro-grams and policy.

Young ProfessionalsCommittee

The new meeting format ofthis Committee continues to bea success, with young profes-sionals from throughout thecommunity meeting for casualnetworking with their peers atBoston Pizza on the firstThursday of every month, from5 p.m. — 7 p.m.

Future efforts for this commit-tee include working with theTimmins 2020 Youth

Engagement project, and organ-izing the third annual YoungProfessionals Awards in thecoming year.

Buy Local Task Force

As the Timmins 2020 plan asspecifically identified the needto increase local purchasing inour region, the Chamber hasspearheaded the creation of aBuy Local Committee. This sizeable group is made up of abroad number of communitypartners, including local businesses, non-profit organiza-tions, as well as city councillors,officials, and Mayor TomLaughren.

Although still in the processof determining the full range ofits actions in the coming year,the group has determined thecatchment area of what it con-siders “local.” All communitieslying within the District ofCochrane boundaries will beconsidered local, ranging fromGogama and Foleyet to thesouth, Chapleau and Hearst tothe west, the James Bay Coast tothe north, and Kirkland Lake tothe east.

Chamber committees: May 2013 update

Tom Semadeni, general manager for Xstrata Copper — Kidd Operations, outlined thecompany’s outlook at a President’s Luncheon event held at the Porcupine DanteClub on March 21. As one of Timmins’ largest employers, Xstrata is continuing tofind more efficiencies as it continues mining activities through 2020 and possiblybeyond.

Xstrata Copper looks to the future

As part of its ongoing efforts to work with all political parties on behalf of its membership, theBoard of Directors of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce met with Thomas Mulcair (third fromright), federal leader of the New Democratic Party, on April 3. As part of this discussion, theChamber brought up various federal-level concerns such as: the need for greater workforce sup-port, better investment in Aboriginal education, more appropriate foreign investment rules, as wellas sufficient government funding for FedNor.

Timmins Chamber meetswith federal NDP leader

Follow us on

www.twitter.com/TimminsChamber

inside business MAY 2013 - 5

When a large internationalengineering firm left town in2004, it left behind three ambi-tious and seasoned engineerswho decided to strike out ontheir own as PorcupineEngineering Services Inc. (PES)rather than follow their employ-er.

“We could have stayed withthem and moved south, butthere’s no way I could haveenjoyed the same lifestyle that Ido here in Timmins,” said BrianEmblin, co-owner and the firm’slead mechanical engineer. “Wedecided to stay and do our ownthing.”

Determined to pursue theunique opportunities thatNorthern Ontario affords,Emblin formed PES with struc-tural engineer Mario Colantonioand electrical engineer FrankO'Donnell later that year.

The multidisciplinary firm hassince strived to provide innova-tive designs to its clients inbooming and ever-changingheavy industrial sectors such asmining, forestry and power.

Creativity has since been topof mind for the firm, as its threefounders have had to transitioninto their new roles of businessowners after being employees ofa large corporation.

“It’s not for everyone, butwe’ve all really enjoyed havingthat extra level of control andtaking a more personal

approach to business,”said Emblin.

This shift has helpedthe firm to maintain itsfocus on providing top-quality service whilebuilding relationshipswith clients. This levelof dedication rapidlyearned them accoladesfrom their peers, as theywere named recipient ofthe New Business Awardduring the TimminsChamber’s 2006 NovaAwards celebration.

The scope of thecompany’s work hassince evolved andexpanded, its customerbase growing through-out Northern Ontarioalongside its own sta-tus as an innovativeand dependable com-pany.s.

“When people did-n’t know us that well, theyentrusted us with smaller proj-ects,” said Emblin. “Over time,we’ve built on that trust anddeveloped a reputation as a busi-ness that can get things done.”

Above all, the firm's success istied to creative solutions to chal-lenges that are unique to theregion.

“There’s not much new heavyindustrial construction going onlocally, so we specialize in help-ing older plants expand by

merging new equipment intothemYou really have to thinkoutside the box with that kindof work. Our guys definitelycome back to the office withtheir hands dirty.”

Like so many businesses acrossNorthern Ontario, the firm hasfaced its share of challenges inits pursuit of success, includingthe 2008 economic downturn

which forced them to cut theirstaff nearly in half. However,their ability and determinationhas allowed them a strongrecovery as they diversifythroughout the province andbeyond.

In recent years, PES has donework in Guatamala and BurkinaFaso, while its most recent suc-cess is having been awarded a

front-end engineeringcontract for a graphitefacility in theMatachewan area.

“Timmins has beenexcellent to us, and it’sbeen great to broadenour customer base andproject capacity, as wellas our geographicalpresence,” said Emblin.

This measured suc-cess led the firm toopen a Sudbury officein 2011, and it current-ly employs 37 person-nel between its twolocations.

“We’re very pro-Timmins and more than90% of our work is donein the region, so we’realways taking resumes.”

To help accommodatetheir continued growth,the company has plansto move beyond theirlong-time home abovethe South Porcupine post

office. In the coming months,PES will be moving to 316Spruce South, into the space for-merly occupied by the TimminsNative Friendship Centre.

To learn more aboutPorcupine Engineering Services,visit them online at www.pes-inc.ca, stop by their currentoffice at 200-81 Shamrock Ave.in South Porcupine, or call themat (705) 235-2110.

APRIL MEMBER OF THE MONTH

Dedication to innovation

With a customer basethat’s growing as quicklyas its reputation for qual-ity Indian cuisine, Le TajTandoori stands as anexample of how successcan be found by pursuingyour passion.

When co-owners SalinaNagi and her husband,Ali, moved to Timminsfrom Toronto in 2009,they were looking for achange and “for some-where good to do busi-ness,” she said.

“We arrived thinking wewould start up somethinglike a gas bar, but as soonas we got hungry, we start-ed missing Indian food.”

Rather than risk openinga brand new restaurant fea-turing all-Indian cuisine,the couple assumed owner-ship of D’eatery, a long-timestaple of Timmins’ down-town food scene, and incor-porated just one Indian dishinto the menu.

“In our first year, peopleseemed a little scared of havinga different culture brought intotown, which is why we decidedto just see how one dish wouldgo,” said Nagi.

Fortunately, demand quicklyrose for a broader range of

Indian food, and before long,D’eatery was transformed intoLe Taj Tandoori.

“We did it slow enough thatpeople were able to see howmuch they actually like it,” saidNagi.

While most of the communityquickly adjusted and enjoyed

the change to the downtownlandmark, one of the biggestchallenges faced by the newowners included hesitation fromsome of D’eatery’s long-timecustomers. Out of respect for thehistoric clientele, the originalrestaurant’s full menu stillremains in place, allowing for a

full slate of Indian mealsalongside traditionalCanadian food, with veg-etarian and veganoptions to accommodatea wide range of appetitesand taste buds.

“Some of D’eatery’sregular customersstopped coming becausethey didn’t realize thatthe D’eatery menu wasstill being offered, so welike to try to remindpeople of that,” saidNagi, “But we’ve beenhere four years nowand every day we seenew customers.”

This approach hasproven to be an effec-tive one, as easing thecommunity into anew type of foodhelped the Nagis tobuild a client basethat now lines up for

their locally famous Indian cui-sine. Le Taj Tandoori now has awide and loyal following, andproudly stands as the best-ratedrestaurant in Timmins on thepopular travel site tripadvisor.ca.

In response to their growingsuccess, Le Taj Tandoori isadding to its staff of nine by hir-ing four new employees, includ-ing a chef that is coming direct-

ly from India to help revampand refresh the Indian menu.Adjustments are also beingmade to their storefront, andhours are being expanded toinclude an early bird breakfast.

“Things are going well, sowe’re also thinking about loca-tions in Sudbury and NorthBay,” said Nagi.

With this level of growth onthe horizon, Salina and Ali arequick to thank all their cus-tomers for their support, including the TimminsChamber of Commerce, andChamber CAO Keitha Robson inparticular, noting how Chambermembership has been a big helpunto itself.

In order to give back to thecommunity that has welcomedthem so warmly, the Nagis havesought to assist with any num-ber of worthy programs, such asparticipating in a healthy hotlunch program at several localelementary schools, and donat-ing food to firefighters duringlast year’s demanding forest fireseason.

“Our customers and theChamber network are like partof our family now,” said Nagi.

To find out more about Le TajTandoori, please visit them at119 Pine Street South, or callthem at (705) 267-2330.

MARCH MEMBER OF THE MONTH

Spicing up Timmins cuisine

BMT Insurance & Financial ServicesBusiness Contribution to theCommunity (1-30 Employees)

Timmins HondaSponsored by:

Awarded to a business with up to 30 employees

that chooses to make Timmins a better place by

demonstrating a commitment of financial and human

resources to support community goals. This award

recognizes a business, not individuals.

Business Contribution to theCommunity (31+ Employees)

Panels and Pipes Inc.Sponsored by:

Awarded to a business with over 30 employees

that chooses to make Timmins a better place by

demonstrating a commitment of financial and human

resources to support community goals. This award

recognizes a business, not individuals.

Service Excellence Award

J& B Cycle &Marine Co. Ltd.

Sponsored by:Awarded to a business that

has demonstrated a commitmentto providing top-quality

customer service.

New Business (Under 2 Years)

Neo Laser Tag Inc.Sponsored by:

Awarded to a business that has

been in operation for up to two

years and has demonstrated

outstanding growth and success.

Marketing Innovation Achievement

Sponsored by:

Awarded to a business that has launched

an outstanding and unique marketing ad,

event or promotional campaign for its own

product or service.

Guiho Saw Sales &Marine Ltd.

Scotiabank

Business of theYear (6-49 Employees)

Pick of the CropSponsored by:

Awarded to a business with6-49 employees that has

demonstrated excellence in sales,growth, product development,

job creation and quality.

Young Entrepreneur (Under 30Years)

Bodhi Tree Hot Yoga StudioSponsored by:

Awarded to an entrepreneur

30 years of age or younger who has

demonstrated leadership and ability in

operating his or her business

CTV Television

Business of theYear (1-5 Employees)

Great WhiteElectrical Services

Sponsored by:

Awarded to a business with up

to 5 employees that has demonstrated excellence

in sales, growth, product development,job creation and quality.

Sponsored by:

Awarded to a business with50 or more employees that has

demonstrated excellence in sales,growth, product development,

job creation and quality.

Sponsored by:

Awarded to a non-profit organization

that exemplifies entrepreneurial

spirit, with demonstrated growth

in programs and services

Business of theYear (50+ Employees)

Imerys TalcNon-Profit Organization Award

Downtown TimminsBIA

President’s Award

Xstrata Copper KiddOperations

Sponsored by:

Awarded to a business that displays

excellence in all Nova Awards categories.

Sponsored by:

Awarded to a business that hasdemonstrated a commitment

to preserving or enhancing ournatural environment.

De Beers Canada

Aboriginal Partnership Award

Detour Gold Corporation

Sponsored by:

Environmental Excellence Award

Porcupine Gold Mines -Goldcorp Canada

Awarded to an aboriginal or

non-aboriginal business that has demonstrated a

commitment to developing partnerships within the

region to forward aboriginal culture, acceptance

and/or employment.

NorthernTel Technology Award

Haasen Farms Ltd.

Sponsored by:

Awarded to a business that has

integrated and utilized advancements in

technological and product innovation in

any form with measurable, positive results.

NorFab Metal and MachineBest Place to Work Award

Logikal Code Inc.Sponsored by:

Awarded to a business that

demonstrates a high level of employee

satisfaction and commitment to a positive

work environment.

Sponsored by:

Construction Trades EmployerApprenticeship Award

Gorf Manufacturing/Contracting Ltd.

Awarded to a business that sponsorsskilled trade apprenticeships.

Proud Partners of the 11th Annual Nova Awards:

Photographs courtesy of Congratulations to the 11th AnnualNova Awards recipients from

inside business MAY 2013 - 7

Celebratingthe best

of businessWith more than 600 attendees, the 2013 Nova Awards

marked another spectacular evening for this important annual celebration, as another sold-outcrowd came out to the McIntyre Arena on April 11

to celebrate the best of Timmins business.Here are a handful of snapshots

of this magical evening.

A full gallery of photographs from the 2013 Nova Awards,

are now availableon the Chamber’s Facebook page:

www.facebook.com/TimminsChamber

inside business8 - MAY 2013

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Join HR Information Service today: www.hrpa.ca/HRsubscriberTimmins

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2. Resource Centre: * Searchable HR knowledgebase * HR Tools, policies, legal opinions * Reference Library including up-to-date salary surveys

3. HR Professional: Canada’s largest HR magazine

4. Discounts on small business HR education

HR Information Service is a service of the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA)—Canada’s HR thought leader with more than 20,000 members in 28 chapters across Ontario. HRPA connects its membership to an unmatched range of HR information resources, events, professional development and networking opportunities and annually hosts Canada’s largest HR conference. In Ontario, HRPA issues the Certifi ed Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation, the national standard for excellence in human resources management and the Senior Human Resources Professional (SHRP) designation, reserved for high-impact HR leaders. www.hrpa.ca

Plus big savings on business products and services, including job postings, insurance and HR reference resources

inside business MAY 2013 - 9

New member profilesAdmission DepotCOMMUNICATION SERVICES AND ADVERTISING(705) 360-2114

AdmissionDepot.com is your one-stopshop to purchase tickets online for eventsthroughout Timmins and the surround-ing area. Proceeds from all ticket salesmade through AdmissionDepot.com ben-efit the North Eastern Ontario Children’sFoundation. The Foundation providessupport to children throughout theCochrane and Timiskaming Districts thathave specific needs and no funding tosupport them. ConsiderAdmissionDepot.com your box office andticket sales partner for your next event.Empower your event by taking onlineregistrations and payments throughAdmissionDepot.com.

[www.admissiondepot.com]

Casa di Media ProductionsCOMMUNICATION SERVICES AND ADVERTISING(705) 266-5694

Founded by Zach Cassidy and AmandaScripnick, Casa di Media Productionsserves the people and businesses ofNorthern Ontario through its qualitymedia production services. Whether tocapture the smallest moments of yourbiggest day through wedding films, or toexpand your company and resources byhelping make your ideas come to life onscreen, Casa di Media Productions is herefor you.

[www.casadimedia.com]

Enviro Masters Lawn CareLANDSCAPING(705) 363-5955

Enviro Masters Lawn Care providesweed application, fertilizing, lawn cut-ting, tree trimming and pruning, andflower bed maintenance and repair serv-ices.

[www.enviromasters.com]

Great White Electrical Services (Timmins) Ltd.ELECTRICAL SERVICES(705) 262-6455

Great White Electrical Services is anelectrical contracting business founded in

January 2012 by Jeremy Wilson, a RedSeal electrician with a Master ElectricalLicense. Seeing a high demand for electri-cal work, Jeremy entered the market toprovide electrical services to residential,commercial, and industrial clients in theCochrane district. Great White ElectricalServices seeks to provide the communitywith an affordable option to completeelectrical projects, while also reducingdelays. The company offers exceptionalprofessional services at affordable prices.Jeremy provides personal and profession-al services and tailors the work to meetthe customer's needs while meeting allsafety regulations. Great White ElectricalServices was the recipient of the 2013Nova Award for CTV Television Businessof the Year (1-5 Employees).

Horwood Lake LodgeOUTFITTERS1-866-424-9992

Horwood Lake Lodge is located onbeautiful Horwood Lake, a large 14,000-acre spectacular body of water, oftendescribed as the prettiest lake inNorthern Ontario. The lake is bothspring- and river-fed, and you will beoverwhelmed by its picturesque shoreswith steep granite cliffs, its gently sloping wooded shorelines and its mag-nificent sandy beaches. The lake offers avariety of depths, structures, irregularshorelines and islands with numeroussecret fishing holes awaiting your discov-ery. Horwood Lake has long been knownfor its trophy fishing, and year after yearguests return because of the abundanceof fish in this amazing lake. HorwoodLake Lodge has been a NortheasternOntario tradition for over 50 years.Established in 1953, the Lodge sits on apeninsula that extends out intoHardiman Bay, on the eastern arm ofbeautiful Horwood Lake.

[www.horwoodlakelodge.com]

Raymond InsuranceINSURANCE SERVICES(705) 267-3750

Raymond Insurance was established in1903. The company first developed fromthe roots of a small family business, andcontinued to develop and grow, tran-scending the changes in the economic,political and cultural environment tobecome the progressive and professional

brokerage it is today. Our company isbuilt on the foundation of trust, integri-ty, professionalism and reliability. Sinceday one, these have been our guidingprinciples, which we still abide by. Ourfirm is one of Northern Ontario’s largestlocally owned insurance brokerages. Wehave offices located in Sudbury,Chelmsford, Val Caron, Sturgeon Fallsand Timmins, and we are committed tobeing part of the communities in whichwe live and work. A full range of insur-ance products and services are offeredthrough our personal and commercialinsurance divisions. A staff of over 40employees has the responsibility ofresponding to the insurance needs of ourmany valued policyholders. To provide acomplete insurance product line to ourclients, we utilize the services of over 25Canadian and international insurancecompanies.

[www.raymondinsurance.com]

LINE-X TimminsAUTOMOBILE SERVICES(705) 268-9898

LINE-X Timmins provides protectivecoatings for automotive, recreation, com-

mercial, industrial, agricultural and resi-dential vehicles.

Phoenix Industrial ServicesINDUSTRIAL MAINTENANCE AND SUPPLIERS(705) 897-4840

Phoenix is a single-source solution foraccess, shoring and special events sys-tems in a wide range of industrial, com-mercial and restoration constructionapplications. Phoenix is truly a safe com-pany achieving more than eleven yearswithout a lost-time injury in some of theaccess industry's most demanding envi-ronments.

With access to the most extensiveinventories of the widest range of prod-ucts and accessories, Phoenix can engi-neer and supply scaffold systemsdesigned for any job. Our full-servicecapabilities include: erecting, disman-tling, rental and sales. Whether for sitemaintenance and shutdown activities,commercial access, pedestrian protectionor roof support, Phoenix has earned itsreputation for cost-effective, reliable andtimely service.

[www.scaffoldsbypheonix.com]

Published by:

Timmins Chamber of CommerceP.O. Box 985, Timmins, Ontario, P4N 7H6

(705) 360-1900Fax: (705) 360-1193

www.timminschamber.on.ca

Managing Editor: Keitha RobsonEmail: krobson@timminschamber.on.ca

Editor: Nick StewartEmail: pcdirector@timminschamber.on.ca

Staff Writer: Kim WakefordEmail: policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Advertising Opportunities: Carmen SwartzEmail: info@timminschamber.on.ca

Inside Business is an information package provided to members of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce and businesses at large. The positions expressed in by-lined columns are the opinion of thesubject editor and do not reflect the position of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce unless specifically stated. The Timmins Chamber of Commerce assumes no responsibility for statements orclaims made by advertisers. “Inside Business” is published 6 times per year by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce. Issue dates are January, March, May, July, September and November. Closing date is the second Friday of the previous month. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission.

Timmins Chamber of CommerceQuestions about a particular program? Interested in having a presentation

about membership benefits for your staff? Contact us at 705-360-1900.

The voice of business since 1949

bw w b. bww w w e t e c h . ce s t e c h . c o m

inside business10 - MAY 2013

M.O.E. COMMERCIAL ACCOUNTINGProfessional Bookkeeping • Personal & Business Tax Returns

M.O.E. = Profits204-670 Airport Road, Timmins

Phone: 268-4474 • Fax: 264-0011Maurice E. Proulx email: moe@moeaccounting.com

PROFESSIONAL VIDEO SERVICES INCLUDING

(705) 235-8663 • (705) 365-8801 www.nearnorthvideo.com

• Industrial, Corporate And Event Video Productions

• Mobile, Multi-Camera Production Facilities

• Film Transfer Services

• Audio/Video Duplication Services

• Audio/Video Rental Services

• Wedding Videos

Professionally Creating Your Vision

You’ve seen them at Chamber events,you’ve received their phone calls, andyou’ve had them swing by your work-place; as they approach the end of theirsecond year, the dedicated volunteerChamber Ambassadors continue to helpbusinesses make the most of their mem-bership.

Initially unveiled in September 2011,the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’sAmbassador program now consists of amotivated group of 10 entrepreneurs andbusiness professionals acting as crucialliaisons between the Chamber and theirfellow members.

In recent months, this group hasgrown to include: Brigitte Vanderloo,Marlene Johnson, Jessica Hardy, DebbieBrowne, Amanda Dyer, Julie Belanger-Racette, Nancy Mageau, Terri Scott, Mary-Lou Pollon and Brooke Ballantyne.

This team of Ambassadors has beenincredibly active in reaching out to themembership, whether it’s a personal callto congratulate a particular milestone, ora helping hand and an introduction ortwo at one of the Chamber’s manyevents. They graciously serve as front-linerepresentatives, guiding new and sea-soned members alike to get the most outof their involvement with the Chamber.

It’s a service that is invaluable for boththe Chamber and its members, while alsoproviding the Ambassadors themselves

with ample opportunities to increasetheir own professional recognition andnetworks. By helping to be the face ofthe Chamber, Ambassadors also earnexposure for their respective businesses.

If you’re interested in joining theChamber Ambassador team, please con-tact Carmen Swartz at the Chamber at(705) 360-1900, or via email at info@timminschamber.on.ca

In this and the coming issues of InsideBusiness, the Timmins Chamber will pro-file individual Ambassadors to help mem-bers get to know this energetic team ofvolunteers. Each will be presented withquestions that help to explain their rea-sons for participating, and their experi-ence with the program to date.

Chamber Ambassador: Nancy Mageau

Q: What is your job/place of employ-ment? 

A: I am a Commercial AccountManager for the Royal Bank of Canada 

Q: Why did you decide to become aChamber Ambassador? 

A: My decision to become anAmbassador is an extension of myinvolvement on the Chamber’sMunicipal Affairs Committee over theyears, as I have seen the great work the

Chamber does for the community and itsmembership.

Q: What work is involved in being aChamber Ambassador? 

A: As an Ambassador, I assist in provid-ing a link between members and theChamber. In so doing, I attend events,meet and greet, make contact with mem-bers to note special occasions or just tomake members aware of upcomingevents. 

Q: What do you enjoy most aboutthis role? 

A: I enjoy staying connected to themembers through networking, which hasallowed me to interact with so many peo-ple and learn about what they offer tothe community.

Q: What benefit do you feel theAmbassador program offers to mem-bers? 

A: The Ambassador program is a linkwhich gives members an opportunity tolearn about chamber benefits through apersonalized connection. 

Q: How do you benefit professionallyfrom serving in this role?

A: It allows me to connect to manybusiness professionals through face-to-face interaction. It also has createdopportunities for personal developmentthrough communication and networkingskills.

Q: How would you summarize your experience as an Ambassador thusfar?

A: Becoming an Ambassador has beenvery rewarding experience. It has allowedme to give back to an organization thatsupports the community on many levelsand initiatives.

Nancy Mageau

Chamber Ambassadors making a difference

inside business MAY 2013 - 11

inside business12 - MAY 2013

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