thunder bay business march 2013

Targeting Alberta Oil Sandsand Saskatchewan Mining

Thunder Bay ArmouryCelebrates 100 Years ofService

See DirectoryInside Pages 5 -12!

MAKING ITHAPPEN

UPDATE: MININGREADINESS STRAT-

EGY –AN INTEGRATED

REGIONALECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENTPLAN

Northwestern Ontarioresidents continue to

have access toExceptional Cancer

Care

Lakehead Opens 8thAnnual

Research andInnovation Week

March 2013

By Sherry Aalto

Sunday, March 17th (2013) will be a dayof celebration for Thunder Bay’s LoyalOrder of Moose Lodge 947. The celebra-tion is open to the public and everyone isencouraged to join in, as charity communi-ty organizations and members of Lodge947 and Chapter 1212, recognize this, their65th anniversary. (Official anniversary dateis March 12th).Lodge 947 members are proud of their her-itage and service to the community andcharitable organizations that spans 65years since they opened their doors in

1948.

Frank Lidemark, Governor of Lodge 947and Patrick Cross, Administrator, will bekicking off the celebration at 1:00 P.M.and being that is also St. Patrick’s Day,one could enjoy a serving of hearty IrishStew. Information and historical memora-bilia will be on display and families canbrowse around and spend a social after-noon in history and current events. Aclassic movie will be shown free of chargeat 7:00 P.M. and a combination of popcornwith a soft drink can be purchased for$5.00 during the movie.

The Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 947 hasserved our community well over the yearsand continues to make its contribution bysupplementing hall space to the ThunderBay Police Youth Corp. (20 years), EmptyBowl Charity – Shelter House and FoodBank, Red Cross Fund Raisers/SpecialOlympics, Flood Victims Fund Raisers andlast but not least, The Easter BunnyBreakfast that is organized by the Fort CityKinettes (Ladies Kinsmen).

The Moose Lodge(s) have been and con-tinues to be a recognized source for familysupport and direction of its members andtheir families and a charitable contributionto the communities they serve. Thelodges have grown in huge numbers overthe years and have sustained their member-ship through recruitment and respectability.Anyone over the age of eighteen canbecome a member and the fee to do so isso reasonable it is almost unbelievable!So! Come out and see what The LoyalOrder of Moose is all about, on March17th at 434 Fort William Road, ThunderBay, Ontario.

PAGE 2 THUNDER BAY BUSINESS MARCH 2013

The Mining Readiness Strategy for theregion of Thunder Bay and Forth WilliamFirst Nation is well underway. Since thefirst round of public information sessions,on September 17 and 18, 2012, there havebeen a number of activities undertaken toprogress the Strategy.

Community Outreach – A series of focusgroup sessions were held during the weekof October 20 to November 3. 2012, Focusgroup workshops were facilitated by the

Project Team with a number of stakeholdergroups, such as: municipalities, FirstNation organizations, government, educa-tional institutions, industry and suppliers.Focus groups were conducted with FortWilliam First Nation elders, youth andwomen during the Second Annual FortWilliam First Nation Days from November17 to November 19, 2012. Informationfrom these workshops will be incorporatedinto the Strategy.

Educational Outreach – Aboriginal training

institutions, colleges and universities with-in Northwestern Ontario have been con-tacted to develop a training inventory andidentify what training and employmentprograms are being offered within theregion. After having a look at what is cur-rently being offered, a gap analysis will beconducted to determine what training andemployment programs will be needed asthe mining, in Thunder Bay and region,increases.

Mining/Infrastructure Data Analysis –Mining characterization is taking place todetermine forecasted workforce activity inthe upcoming years. The Project Team isworking towards a better understanding ofhuman resource employment patterns aswell as mine supply chain patterns from

existing mines and near term miningcamps. This will lead to input into model-ing of likely regional economic impactsand understanding of sourcing and resi-dence decisions. Infrastructure withinNorthwestern Ontario is being assessed aswell as the readiness of the supply andservices industries within the Thunder Bayregion.

Environmental Scan – A number of consul-tations have taken place with regionalcommunity and institutional representa-tives, the City of Thunder Bay, theThunder Bay Community EconomicDevelopment Commission (CEDC) andFort William First Nation to collect infor-mation for the Environmental Scan.Currently the Environmental Scan containsregional demographic profiles, a draft ofthe housing component, and a draft of theindustrial lands component and summariesof all mining and advanced mining activi-ties.

The Project Team is aiming to completethe Strategy by the end of March 2013. Asecond round of public information ses-sions will then take place to present theStrategy to the public.

Visit www.thunderbay.ca/MiningReadinessfor more information.

UPDATE: MINING READINESS STRATEGY

65th ANNIVERSARY! ForTHUNDER BAY’S LOYALORDER of MOOSE LODGE

947

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS MARCH 2013 PAGE 3

As part of an ongoing evolution in offeringworld class technology for NorthwesternOntario cancer patients, Regional CancerCare Northwest (RCC NW) has recentlyinstalled one of the world’s most advancedLinear Accelerators (LINAC) – the ElektaInfinity.This complex project, underway formonths, is now complete and the firstpatients are being treated on the InfinityLINAC. Radiation Therapy staff are fullytrained on the new machine and are devel-oping unique, customized treatment plans

for patients.The advanced Elekta Infinity system incor-porates image-guided workflow into acomprehensive treatment system. The newInfinity LINAC allows radiation treatmentsto be delivered more efficiently, contribut-ing to fewer side effects, less time forpatients on the LINAC treatment bed, andpotentially, improved patient outcomes.

“We’re proud to partner with one ofOntario’s preeminent cancer centers,” saysMichael Power, Vice President andManaging Partner, Elekta Canada. “ElektaInfinity represents the pinnacle of radio-therapy’s technological sophistication, andin the hands of physicians at RegionalCancer Care Northwest, patients will bereceiving very safe, accurate and clinicallyeffective therapy.”

The Infinity LINAC fully integrates withRCC NW’s new MOSAIQ ElectronicMedical Record system scheduled to beimplemented in May of this year. This will

streamline clinical workflow and, becausetreatment planning information is down-loaded to the LINAC without manual tran-scription and the chance of human error,the new system will make radiation thera-py treatment safer.

The Infinity LINAC has on-board conebeam imaging that allows a CT scan to betaken in less than one minute while apatient is in treatment position immediate-ly prior to radiation delivery.

“On-board cone beam imaging allows us

to advance our techniques in the future,”says Dr. Sunil Gulavita, Head andCoordinator of Radiation Oncology atTBRHSC. “With daily imaging capability,we can target the tumour and spare normaltissue to ensure we are radiating the cor-rect anatomy. Eventually, we will developnew treatment techniques to take advan-tage of the Infinity LINAC’s precision bydecreasing the number of daily fractionsand increasing the daily dose. Fewer frac-tions mean fewer visits for patients to theCancer Centre.”

“These treatment improvements are won-derful and it’s reassuring to know that ourRegional Cancer Centre is always at theforefront of technical innovations,” saysformer radiation therapy patient and localbusinessman Shawn Christie. “But puttingtechnology aside, I can’t emphasizeenough how much it eases the cancer jour-ney when patients are supported byRadiation Therapy staff who deliver expertcare with compassion and commitment.”

The Infinity LINAC project (includingboth machines) is an eight million dollarendeavour largely funded by Cancer CareOntario – the Ontario government agencythat directs and oversees high quality,timely cancer services and improvedaccess to care for all Ontarians.

“Replacing aging radiation treatmentequipment is a critical component ofensuring timely access to high-quality can-cer care as close to home as possible,” saysMichael Sherar, President and CEO,Cancer Care Ontario. “The installation ofthis new LINAC is just one example ofCancer Care Ontario’s partnership with theNorth West Regional Cancer Program toensure patients and families in ThunderBay and the surrounding communitieshave access to a safe, sustainable, efficientand effective cancer system.

Residents of Northwestern Ontario have along history of supporting the NorthernCancer Fund (formerly the NorthernCancer Research Foundation) to bringleading-edge care close-to-home. Today,that tradition continues as the communityhas, once again, committed to support theinvestment in these new LINACs, that willensure our friends, family, and neighbourshave the very best opportunity to survivecancer.

“We are delighted to be here today atthe unveiling of the first new LINAC,”says David Knutson, Chair, Board ofDirectors, Thunder Bay Regional HealthSciences Foundation. “Donors to theNorthern Cancer Fund have given gener-ously to the cancer program and are con-tinuing to do so, knowing how much of animpact their donations have on cancer carehere in Northwestern Ontario. We are alltouched by cancer, but luckily, cancer’snew normal is that it is now a chronic con-dition. With early detection, advancedtreatments, and exceptional cancer care,more people will survive their disease.Donations to the Northern Cancer Fund arean essential component to ongoing,advanced care, close-to-home and I thankour donors who have truly made this possi-ble.”

The first new LINAC marks the beginningof fulfilling RCC NW’s ExceptionalCancer Care plan promise to replace itstwo existing linear accelerators by 2015. Asecond Infinity LINAC is scheduled to beinstalled, commissioned, and treatingpatients by fall of 2013.

Regional Cancer Care Northwest (RCC-NW) works to ensure that all patientsreceive equitable access to quality cancercare by offering world-class services incancer prevention, early detection, diagno-sis, treatment, and supportive/palliativecare to the 235,000 residents ofNorthwestern Ontario. We are one of 14Regional Cancer Programs in the province,operating in partnership with Cancer CareOntario and TBRHSC. Regional CancerNorthwest has 13 affiliated sites across theregion, including community hospitals andhealth access centers. www.tbrhsc.net/can-cercareMichael Sherar, President & ChiefExecutive Officer Cancer Care Ontario“ It is a significant investment in renewingtwo linear accelerators; one is already

installed to make sure we have the highestquality radiation therapy available forpatients in Thunder Bay and region. Thetechnology has advanced to allow moreprecision radiation therapy to be deliveredwhich is better for patient care. Themachines are also more efficient in treatingpatients with shorter time. These are stateof the art machines being installed acrossthe province. They represent the highestquality of care that can be delivered. Wesee the Northwest region near the top inOntario.”

Shawn Christie, cancer survivor

“ I was diagnosed with cancer inSeptember 2011. They found threetumours in my neck. I had my tonsilsremoved and within a few weeks after thathad a feeding tube put in my stomach.Following that there were 35 radiationtreatments and 3 chemo treatments over a7 week period which took me to Christmaswith a 4 week down time after that untilFebruary 2012. I lost 50 pounds.”“ The people who are going to start treat-

ment now are so lucky to have this. Mysessions were 35 to 45 minutes eachMonday to Friday so to be able to cut thattime in half will help so much.”“ My health now is great. My tumourshave shrunk from September to December,which is optimistic. As a survivor we goday by day, keep a positive attitude andlook for support. The support systems thatare here in Thunder Bay at the CancerCentre are world class. People need to takeadvantage of this and have while they aregoing through treatment.”“ I have three children so just felt I neededto stay strong, focused and positive for mykids, family and all the people out therethat I love. I want to touch as many peopleas I can because I had so much supportmyself and want to pay that forward. Thereis hope and more people are living withcancer today.”

Northwestern Ontario residents continueto have access to Exceptional Cancer Care

Publisher’sNoteScott

Sumner

Lakehead’s Research and Innovation Weekopening ceremonies in the Agora celebratethe amazing projects conducted by facultyand students.“Research and Innovation at Lakeheadnurtures scholarship, contributes to theprosperity of our community, and makes adifference in people’s lives,” said Dr. RuiWang, Vice President of Research,Economic Development and Innovation.“This week is an invitation to the residentsof Thunder Bay and Simcoe County to seethe high calibre research conducted atLakehead, meet the researchers who makeit happen and discover the benefits thisresearch has for everyone,” Dr. Wang said.Lakehead President Dr. Brian Stevensonsaid Research and Innovation Week is anopportunity to thank and honour theimportant work of the researchers whocontribute to the overall knowledge of var-ious topics.“It’s also important to recognize the roleplayed by both the Federal and theProvincial Governments, and fundingcouncils such as the Canada Foundationfor Innovation,” Dr. Stevenson said.“Without public support, many of theseprojects wouldn’t be possible.”

Dr. Gilles G. Patry, Canada Foundation forInnovation President and CEO, said: “Thework being done at Lakehead University isan excellent example of the positive rolethat university-based research can have onCanadian communities. Sustained govern-ment investments in research are enablingclusters of growth and innovation acrossthe country.”

Thunder Bay-Atikokan MPP Bill Maurosaid Research and Innovation Week is aperfect opportunity to display the impor-

tant work being done at LakeheadUniversity.“Lakehead is a vital part of our region'sgrowing knowledge-based economy. Thisweek highlights some of the exceptional,world-class research that's being donethere. Their ingenuity and hard work ishelping transform our region into animportant hub for research and innova-tion,” said MPP Mauro.

The Minister of Natural Resources,Thunder Bay-Superior MPP MichaelGravelle, said he’s amazed by the researchhappening at Lakehead University.

“I enjoy seeing the many stories of successeach year during this week. It is so reward-ing to see Lakehead University showcasethese ground-breaking projects that areflourishing here in Northwestern Ontario.Research and innovation translates notonly into improvements to our quality oflife, but is an economic driver of theNorth, and is positively shaping our com-munity,” Minister Gravelle said.

Also on Friday, Dr. Connie Nelson,Professor of Social Work and Director,Food Security Research Network, and Dr.Azim Mallik, Biology Professor, talkedabout their exemplary research.

Dr. Han Chen, Lakehead Professor inNatural Resources Management, and hisco-applicants have received a NaturalSciences and Engineering ResearchCouncil of Canada strategic project grantworth $620,761 over three years.

Working with Lakehead researchers, Dr.Jian Wang and Dr. Chander Shahi, Dr.Chen will examine ways to minimize the

environmental impact of biomass harvest-ing and maximize economic opportunities.

“Without funding it’s nearly impossible todo research such as this,” Dr. Chen said.For the next three years, Dr. Chen willwork with his research partners and at leasta dozen students in the boreal forest northof Thunder Bay.

“This research funding could not come at abetter time – with Lakehead Universityactively engaged in sustainable bioenergyand biorefining research,” said Dr. RuiWang, Vice-President, Research, EconomicDevelopment & Innovation.

Lakehead’s research team will work withthe University of Toronto’s Dr. SeanThomas and Dr. Nathan Basiliko, ResoluteForest Products, the Ministry of NaturalResources, and Natural Resources Canada.

Biomass harvesting uses the tops andlimbs of trees, as well as small diametertrees, felled by regular tree harvesting toproduce bioenergy and biochemical prod-ucts.

Dr. Azim Mallik, Professor of Biology atLakehead University“Plants are most important to our world.Without the plants everything will perish.They are the only resource that can capturelight energies and covert into chemicalenergy. We all relie on plants for energy.”“Northwestern Ontario is a wonderful area

to study plants in their natural home. Wehave forestry, we have lakes, all kinds ofplants and the largest boreal forest in theworld. It has to be managed in such a waythat it is sustainable. We need to ensurethat the eco system is sustainable so we geta constant flow of resources from there.We can’t exceed the threshold.”“ We have a bad habit of cutting and run-ning from our forests. Plants have a naturalability to come back and we need toenhance that ability by managing in a waythat we empower the plants to come back.We work on how to make this better.Plants are extremely smart. They aresmarter than people because we can runaway but they are stuck there. They some-times wait for natural disaster like forestfires to be able to renew in their way.”

Dr Brian Stevenson, President ofLakehead University“We have to have research because we cando innovative work, focus and concentrateon amazing and new discoveries becausewe have an impact on the community, it’seconomy and it’s future. A university likeLakehead can punch way above it’s weightbecause of the talent of the faculty,researchers and the staff that we have tomake us achieve beyond what ourresources are.”“ This week is a celebration and also ashowcase of what we can do. It is an out-reach program. People know the value ofthe research we do.”


© 2013 Brian Babcock

As spring approaches, thoughts turn to thedisastrous floods of 2012, and, for aninsurance lawyer, to the number of peoplewho did not have coverage. Some of themchose not to buy coverage, and otherscould not find an insurer willing to cover

risks in flood prone areas, but some peoplereceived bad news on top of bad news,thinking they had coverage when they didnot.

Property insurance coverage terms varygreatly. Each insurer decides what wording

to use; what they cover and what theyexclude. One insurer may have three ormore levels of coverage or packages theyoffer. The variety is even more confusingfor business property.

Making sure you have the coverage youthink you are buying starts with carefuldiscussion with your broker or agent. Abroker has a legal responsibility to obtainappropriate coverages, but the customerneeds to answer the questions fully andcarefully. Buying over the phone may becheaper, but it is riskier.

When deciding which insurance policy tobuy, the question is not “is this cheapest?”Instead, ask yourself two questions: “Can Iafford this coverage?” and “Can I affordnot to have it?”

Answering those questions requires know-

ing what is covered, and what is excludedunder your policy. A typical insurance poli-cy starts with a fairly broad description ofwhat is covered. Understanding startsthere, but you cannot stop there. The key isthe exclusions, and that is where policiesvary most.

When you buy is when you should consid-er issues like:

• What perils are covered?Fire only?

• What about theft?Vandalism?

• Do I own antiques, jew-els, furs, which need to be listed to be cov-ered?

• Is my home based busi-ness covered?

• If I have tenants, am Icovered? Are they covered?

• What happens if the

property is vacant?• What does THIS policy

define as “vacant”?• What are my obligations

if I am away?• What if I install a wood

burning stove?• Am I covered for sewer

backup?

A good broker or agent will guide youthrough these questions, and others, and ifthe broker slips up, you might be able tosue, but getting it right and getting theclaim paid smoothly is always preferable.

Weilers has provided insurance and riskmanagement legal services to the residentsand business owners of Thunder Bay forover 65 years.

Are You Covered?

Lakehead Opens 8th AnnualResearch and Innovation Week

LegalMatters

WHY JOINTHE

TBBWN?

Networking is getting togetherto get ahead. It is sharinginformation, developinginterpersonal skills, and creatingcontacts for mutual,personal and business gains.It is recognizing each other’sachievements, becoming involvedwith your communityand assisting others in theirbusiness and career growth.Networking is about buildingand maintaining a long termrelationship where both partiesdevelop a comfort levelwith each other, and want tohelp one another. It is simply

about talking to peopleand is reciprocal in nature.Networking isn’t about whatyou get; it’s about what yougive.

1. Educational opportunitiesfor professionaland personal development.

2. Free businesslisting and photo in theNetwork online MembershipDirectory.3. Meet valuablecontacts and newfriends. Enjoy socialinteraction with otherbusiness women.4. Promote yourself,your business. Recommendyour business and

get leads or contracts.5. Share information.Display your promotionalmaterials at membershipmeetings.6. Develop networkingskills.7. Advertise in ourmonthly newsletter.JOIN ONLINE AT:www.tbbwn.com

HISTORY OFTHE TBBWNThe inaugural meeting of theThunder Bay Business Women’sNetwork (TBBWN) washeld on February 21, 1985at the Valhalla Inn. Foundingmembers Dawne-MarieMacLeod, Cathy MacKintoshand Cathy Hagberg wereinstrumental in organizingthat first meeting.Since then, the Networkhas evolved into a dynamicorganization committed tothe interests and concernsof business and professionalwomen. Officially incorporated

in 1998, the ThunderBay Business Women’s Networkis a not-for-profit organizationwhich operateswith a 9-member volunteerBoard of Directors.In 2000, TBBWN launchedits first website with fundingsupport from FedNor.Our goal was to providetimely information to ourmembers in an electronicformat, including links tobusiness information sourceson the Internet. We offerspecial thanks to Lisa Beckwickfor her vision and energyin realizing the dreamof an online presence forthe TBBWN. Our ongoingcommitment is to a websitethat is fresh, interestingand responsive to memberneeds.

OUR STORYEach year, the Network offersits members and the communityof Thunder Bay anexciting schedule of events.Meetings are held Septemberthrough June on a Thursday,either mid-day or evening.Meetings may include a meal,a speaker or other specialactivities as well as time fornetworking. Check out ourCalendar for upcoming meetingdates!We invite a wide range of individualsto be keynote speakersat our meetings; many liveand work in our communitybecause the Network is firmlycommitted to honouring localexpertise. From time to

time, we are able to schedulea speaker with a provincial ornational profile who can offer

a unique perspective on topicsof interest to our members. Afee is charged for each meeting

to cover expenses (includingfacility rental, meals andspeaker costs).Event Sponsorship:Dinner Meetings – $100 includesflyer (supplied by you)in goodie bag, banner/signageat the meeting, mentioned onthe radio, display booth, honourablemention on websitefor the year.Display/Trade Show Booths:Limited numbers of displaytable/booths are availablefor rent for the evening.Members $15Non-Member $20Goodie Bag for Guests:Each guest will receive a goodbag. Members $5 Non-Members$10 plus the number ofitems required for the bag.(80 items for this event)

“ ProudlySupporting The

Business Womenof Thunder Bay” Amina Abu-Bakare is a Certified Executive Coach with a diverse professional experi-

ence of over 20 years. Amina brings to coaching a degree in Human Resources with aminor in Marketing, a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) from Lakehead

University., and a Graduate Certification in Executive Coaching from the Royal RoadsUniversity. As a member of the International Coaching Federation, their Code of

Conduct and Ethical Guidelines govern her.Her coaching expertise includes, SmallBusiness, Career and Intercultural Coaching for Expats on overseas assignments.

Coaching on the Superior501 Frankllin Street South,Thunder Bay, ON P7E 1R5

Phone: 807-626-2923 Email: [email protected]: http://coachingonthesuperior.com

The Honourable Tony Clement, Ministerfor FedNor, today announced an invest-ment by the Harper Government to supportwomen’s business development andgrowth throughout Northern Ontario.

“Women are active and dynamic entrepre-neurs and small businesses owned by themare one of the fastest growing businesssegments in Canada,” said MinisterClement. “The Harper Government is keento celebrate women’s entrepreneurial ambi-tions by supporting organizations such asthe PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprisewhich provide women across NorthernOntario with the tools they need to capital-ize on business opportunities.”

A FedNor investment of $1.5 million willenable PARO to deliver a series of work-shops, training sessions, coaching andmentoring activities that will providewomen entrepreneurs and business ownerswith access to information and expertise tohelp them strengthen their businesses. Thispan-Northern initiative also includes out-reach activities aimed specifically atAboriginal and Francophone women.

“We are proud of our long-standing historyof supporting women’s entrepreneurialdreams,” stated Rosalind Lockyer,Executive Director of PARO Centre forWomen’s Enterprise. “With FedNor’s sup-port, we look forward to making a differ-ence, helping businesswomen explore newmarkets, as well as take advantage of inno-vative technology and procurement oppor-tunities.”

The funding announced is providedthrough FedNor’s Northern OntarioDevelopment Program, which supports

projects that strengthen community eco-nomic development, enhance businessgrowth, and facilitate innovation through-out the region.

FedNor – 25 years of successful invest-ment in Northern Ontario. To learn moreabout our programs and services, pleasevisit: fednor.gc.ca and follow us on Twitter@FedNor

Rosalind Lockyer, Executive Director ofPARO Centre of Women’s Centre.“ Since 2006 and to 2013 we have helped5727 women in business which is 8 timeswhat we did from 1995 to 2006. I am real-ly pleased it is three years funding becausewe have a lot of hard work to do in thenext while. We will be working withwomen to take advantage of these newchanges in the economy, the new miningsector but also health and education sec-tors. Part of our work will be around tech-nology and the experts they need. We needto work together to support the local peo-ple and businesses so our youth will stayhere and the local businesses will thrive.”Minister Tony Clement“ This is great story, the example of howmany women you have helped through

PARO. I am here to make an importantfunding announcement. PARO is one ofthe leading business centers for women inCanada. We are building upon our eco-nomic action plan which is about growthand jobs and the federal government oper-ating in a fiscally responsible manner,being careful how we spend tax payersdollars. Entrepreneurial activity is how webecome a success in Canada.”“ The theme of the announcements I made

today are about supporting Thunder Bayand regional entrepreneurs who are makinga difference in a diversity of areas.”“ PARO is dedicated to supporting womenentrepreneurs which is the fastest growingsegment in our country. It is all positive.Thunder Bay is showing itself as a leader.PARO has shown their work and record ofsuccess.”“ I have seem the changes in Thunder Bayover the last 7 years as FEDNOR Minister.The forestry went through a rough patchand was hit hard but I have seen thebounce back and the buzz in the air withmany new entrepreneurs ready to getgoing. It is very positive to be here inThunder Bay. People in the north are toughand businesses have adapted well here inThunder Bay. That is a good sign. I thinkmuch of what is happening here is nationalin scope whether it be the health applica-tions example, PARO which is nationallyrecognized or the Ring of Fire has theopportunity to have a multi generationalimpact for the region and country as awhole.”

THIS NETWORKWORKS!TBBWN is a dynamicnetworking group!New members arealways welcome.Each year, the Network offersits members and thecommunity of Thunder Bayan exciting schedule of

events. Meetings are heldSeptember through June ona Thursday, either mid-dayor evening. Meetings may

include a meal, a speakeror other special activitiesas well as time for networking.Check out our Calendar

for upcoming meetingdates!We invite a wide range ofindividuals to be keynotespeakers at our meetings;many live and work in ourcommunity because theNetwork is firmly committedto honouring local expertise.From time to time,we are able to schedule aspeaker with a provincialor national profile who canoffer a unique perspectiveon topics of interest to ourmembers. A fee is chargedfor each meeting to coverexpenses (including facilityrental, meals and speakercosts).

BY SCOTT A. SUMNERThunder Bay BUSINESS

Harper Government supports women entrepreneurs

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by Major David Ratz, CD

The active military community of ThunderBay traces its history back to 1885.During two World Wars, Korea, numerousPeacekeeping and NATO missions and atpresent, men and women soldiers fromThunder Bay are serving their country in

Afghanistan.

Today, this community composes not onlya small cadre of full time Regular ForceSoldiers and over three hundred ReserveForce Soldiers, but there are also several

Cadet Corps and veterans who are mem-bers of the Royal Canadian Legion.Together they compose a dynamic groupwhich contributes economically to the Cityof Thunder Bay as productive employees,business owners, and as well members ofvarious community groups.

One of the many heritage buildings inThunder Bay is the Armoury at 317 ParkAvenue. Construction began in 1913 andtook nearly a year to complete. When itopened in 1914 it was a monumental con-

struction project for the Lakehead at a timewhen the construction industry was experi-encing a shortage of work. The newArmoury was part of increased governmentsupport for the Militia as the ArmyReserve was known at the time. In 1984an annex was opened on the east side ofthe building, which retained the original

brick Baronial architectural style. Themain purpose for the Armoury was to pro-vide a facility in which to store militaryweapons and equipment, provide trainingfacilities and administer the part-time sol-

diers who serve their country in the Militiaand later the Army Reserve. The Armourywas the focal point of mobilization of the52nd Battalion, Canadian ExpeditionaryForce during World War 1 and the LakeSuperior Regiment (Motor), in World War2).

Over the years the Armoury was alsohome to other units, including among oth-ers the 96th Lake Superior Regiment, 10thDivisional Signals, 4 Field Ambulance,118 Medium Battery, Royal Canadian

Artillery, 35 Technical Squadron, RoyalCanadian Electrical Mechanical Engineers,138 Transport Company, the LakeheadService Battalion and for a brief time theHMCS Griffon before they acquired sepa-rate facilities. Today the Armoury is hometo the Lake Superior Scottish Regiment, 18Field Ambulance, 3 Squadron of 38 SignalRegiment, and 18 Service Company. Inaddition 2511 LSSR and 2294 18 ServiceBattalion Royal Canadian Army CadetCorps are housed in the Armoury.

Another important feature of the Armouryis the Thunder Bay Military Museum,which is a tri-service museum. Themuseum’s mission is to preserve docu-ments, photographs and artifacts relating tothe naval, military and air force heritage ofthe region. Among the various displays ofmilitary weapons, uniforms, badges andthe memorabilia is the noted prisoner ofwar art collection by former German sub-mariner George Hoegel.

One of the other justifications for the con-struction of the Armoury at the time wasthat the large drill floor could be used bythe community. For example Dr. Nathan

Hatton in his recently published book,“Rugged Game: Community, Culture andWrestling at the Lakehead to 1933,” notedthat in the 1920’s the Armoury was thevenue for several professional wrestlingmatches. On other occasions there wereconcerts and socials held by communitygroups. The Officer’s Mess was one ofthe focal points of social life and over theyears many people can recall attendingdances, Christmas parties and formal din-ners there.

One such activity is the Military Ball,which has it’s origins in the formal affairsheld to bid farewell to the men departingfor service overseas during the First WorldWar. In its present form, the Military Ballis usually held annually in the spring and itis perhaps one of the few strictly formalsocial events held in Thunder Bay, wherethe military community, local VIP’s andinvited public mingle. Attendees to thisinvitation-only event wear formal dressuniforms, tuxedos and full length ballgowns. In addition to a meal catered byone of the city’s finest restaurants, guestsat the Military Ball will be entertained by atattoo performed by the MacGillivray PipeBand and dance to the music of a well-known local dance band.

The Military Ball will be held at theArmoury on 13 April 2013. The theme isthe 100th Anniversary of the constructionof the Armoury. This year’s organizersthink that as always it will be a wonderfulevening. For more information pleasecontact Major David Ratz at 807-343-5106or [email protected].

Thunder Bay Armoury Celebrates 100 Years of Service

Thanks firstly to those who let me knowthat they like this format for the columnand secondly I really do appreciate yourfaithful readership!So much is happening in our communityand region it looks like we will have lotsof positive news for many months tocome.

Making OpportunitiesDid the upsurge in economic developmentjust happen, did the stars miraculouslyalign or did it take belief, perseverance,planning and considered cooperation toturn wish lists into reality?Certainly a bit of all of the above butmostly cooperation. Years ago when theregion met at the Quetico Centre (we allmiss that facility for sure!) the consensusof letting NOMA (the NorthwesternOntario Municipal Association) drive thepolitical agenda and NOACC(Northwestern Ontario AssociatedChambers of Commerce) speak for thebusiness community we realized that wewere delivering punchier more focusedmessaging to the Provincial and Federalgovernments.The City's Inter-Governmental AffairsCommittee communicates constantly withthese and other organizations to keep as

many people in the loop as possible.Although there is lots of competition forthe infrastructure and supply side of min-ing the upshot is that the coordinated sig-nals from the North West are getting

through.Particularly gratifying is the mutual sup-port with First Nations and Metis groupsand with the NorthWest Training Board.These networks are further supplementedand with 3 District Municipal Leagues andprofessional development groups such asPARO.PARO exemplifies the depth of the out-reach as we ensure inclusivity to all resi-dents. Women have been a driving force inentrepreneurial spheres for quite some timeand have been strong contributors to boththe idea and the investment components ofbusiness.

With mining's surge and forestry's resur-gence these in sync allow for even morebusiness opportunities. We'll talk abouttourism next month but those opportunitiesare being rebuilt from people many of ushadn't considered before. Please guesswhich group that is.Full answer next edition!

Speaking OfA topic that is on everyone's mind is wherewill we get the skilled employees neces-sary to fill all the jobs that are coming.From the Training Board's perspective itused to be that we were "RE-training"from unemployment. Now it should bepatently clear that we need to train FORemployment that will be described as acareer in contrast to make-work.At a session in the Rainy River Districtlast month the Chiefs and the Mayors ofthe District identified skilled trainingdevelopment as the number one issueneeded their attention and cooperation.You will now notice that what may have atone time been a platitude that the word"cooperation" is now mandatory compul-sory and vital to any business developmentin our community or the region.Again we are blessed with ConfederationCollege and Lakehead University's leader-ship in adapting to forthcoming require-

ments. With the School Boards addressingthe huge demand for tradespeople, (oncemore we see gender blended into theunderstanding that these opportunities arenot exclusive,) I believe we are very muchon track. We are impatient and rightly sowhen we see that it is going slower thanwe'd like but we are moving.And here's the crunch- many regionsacross Canada and indeed our competitiveneighbours to the south are looking for thesame kind of talent.Now that we have the chance for meaning-ful well-paying careers right here in theNorthWest we must build on the base wehave to keep young people right here.

ObservationWith the rise of women entrepreneurs andtheir growing occupation of more leader-ship positions in the business world weshould also be assured in the growth ofthe younger demographics coming intoplay with fresh approaches and a grandinfusion of energy and enthusiasm.

Respectfully submitted,Ken BoshcoffDirector of Business StrategiesCrupi Consulting Group

MAKING IT HAPPEN

The Thunder Bay Community EconomicDevelopment Commission and Ministry ofNorthern Development and Mines recentlyheld a breakfast presentation for regionalfirms seeking to increase their WesternCanadian presence and how to enter the

Western market to do business there.

Steve Matheson, Project Lead, EnergyConnection Oil Sands Ontario ofMinistry of Economic Development“ We discussed the opportunities that areavailable due to the growth in Alberta forNorthern Ontario suppliers to be able to

participate in that market. We believe thereis tremendous growth there in the longerterm.”“ We believe Thunder Bay has the skillsand the engineering expertise to supplytheir needs with out a question. There are anumber of opportunities with new technol-ogy in say drainage systems. It requiresplanning and homework to enter thesemarkets. The economy is growing rapidity

in Alberta and provides fuel for ThunderBay companies to get into that market.We like to keep our skills here first butthere a number of opportunities inAlberta.”

Lester Cey President of LPC,Consulting

“ The Saskatchewan market is in realdecent shape right now. There are newmines being developed like we have neverseen. We are into $20 billion of work for asmall province with about 1 million peo-ple. Agriculture is doing really well as wellso the province overall is doing well.”“ Technology is really huge and we don’thave all the technology there so look allover the world. We are scanning the worldso your companies in Thunder Bay are get-ting looked at. It takes more than that, it

takes coming out to the province andmaking connections. You go out there andbring what you have to the table and letthe market decide.”“ We have lost labour to Alberta but they

are coming back. Our housing market ishot in Saskatchewan right now but wedon’t see it as too expensive.”

Mining opportunities have become thegreat topic of discussion in Thunder Bayrecently. It was fun to meet local miningentrepreneur Henry Wetelainen and findout about his massive Bendingn lake proj-ect.

“ My grandmother had me out prospect-ing at Bending Lake, which is 26 milessouth of Ignace, when I was 12 years old.She had many claims there but lost them.Both sides of my family were prospectorsand miners. My grandfather had a miningclaims. We have been on that land forover 7 generations with our traplines,” saidHenry Wetelainen. “ I always had a inter-

est in prospecting. In 2003 this propertycame up for sale from Noranda with 49mining claims so we bought it from them.We did a forest management plan and haveviewed it like we were developing a mineright from day one.”The property had a good road structure

and identifying of the resources. AlgomaStell had previously spent many millionson the property according to Wetelainen.Steep Rock iron Mines were also looking

at the property in the past to extend theirmining life.

“ We have started working on the projectseriously in 2008 with our first financingand then again in 2011. We are the onlyprivately owned mine that has a productdescription in the EA process and areAboriginal owned. We will be in the envi-ronmental assessment phase for the next 1to 11/2 years. Once we get our permit ourvalue explodes and we would be able tofinance the construction at the mine prop-erty.”

The cost of the physical property on sitewould be about $1 billion according toWetelainen. They will have to build a rail-

way down to the site, gas and hydro linesand the mine life will be in excess of 60years with a quick pay back.

“ It is some what similar to theMinnesota iron properties but they aremore flat and our ore goes down more. Itwould be all open pit operation. We antici-pate the price on our pellets to be at $140per ton if we focus on the North Americanmarket. We feel our production cost will

be quite low per ton and hope to do 4 mil-lion tones per year,” smiles Wetelainen,age 64, whose dad, age 84 and mother,age 82, are both still running a business inWabigoon. “ Our concentrate will be ahigh content pellet. It then goes into a blastfurnace and becomes steel. Our team hasover 100 years of iron mining experience.Algoma Steel might be a end user.”

The Bending Lake team feel there wouldbe about 350 full time employees living inIgnace and area when operational.

“ We got into this EA process and havespent far less than usual in this process.We started with 50 shareholders at thebeginning with basically family and closefriends and then outside of that another130 shareholders have come on boardincluding some large funds. De riskingmakes it easier to get financing. Once you

have the permits it makes it easier to risemoney,” said Wetelainen. “ The Chinesemay finance the whole project whichwould be good. We have been offered buyouts before but want to run the project. Itis a challenge, interesting and what elseare you going to do. I played golf when Iwas younger and I don’t like golf any-more. Would I sit around and twiddle my

funds and pretend I am retired. It woulddrive me nuts.”

“ My parents and grandparents were prettytough people. I think it would be nice tohave an Aboriginal controlled mine inNorthern Ontario, not controlled by biginternational communities to create wealthfor the community, the First Nations com-munities, our members and my family tocreate generational wealth. You have tothink generations ahead. We are in controland don’t just turn that over to someoneelse,” said Wetelainen. “ I think if thecommodity prices stay up we will seeother mines developed here including goldand copper. The driver will be China, Indiaand Indonesia. Those economies arestrong, building their infrastructures andhave huge populations of almost 3 billion

people to drive commodities. There isnothing wrong in Canada being a com-modity country. We should be proud of ourmining skills. Our average wage in Ignaceat Bending Lake would be $60,000 to$70,000. The spin off effect of miningdirect jobs at another 8 jobs which ishuge.”


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Bending Lake Iron Group Planning For Success

Targeting Alberta Oil Sands and Saskatchewan Mining



Henry Wetelainen, Bending Lake Iron Group Limited President & CEO

Lester Cey President of LPC, Consulting


"Congratulations to theHonourable Michael Gravelle,MPP (Thunder Bay - SuperiorNorth) on his reappointment to

the Ontario Cabinet and hisreturn to the Ministry of

Northern Development andMines. The management and staff

of Bending Lake Iron Groupappreciate the work done on

behalf of our Industry and ourriding."

THUNDER BAY BUSINESS MARCH 2013

thunder bay business march 2013

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