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winter 2016 Complimentary Issue Postal Agreement No.40013935

THE

GAME CHANGER

Make the right play for energy efficiency. GET RETROFIT FOR BUSINESS.

www.tbhydro.on.ca/conservation

Welcome Aboard Bearskin Airlines! By Ron Hell, Director Marketing and Sales Bearskin Airlines recently announced a strategic partnership with Winnipeg-based Perimeter Aviation to re-introduce service between Winnipeg or Thunder Bay and several First Nations communities north of Sioux Lookout. Established in 1960, Perimeter Aviation has been serving numerous remote Manitoba communities for more than 56 years. Perimeter has also been linking Sandy Lake, Pikangikum and Sachigo Lake to Winnipeg for more than 10 years. When Perimeter expanded their service to include Sioux Lookout, Bearskin Airlines reached out to establish a partnership to offer joint fares to/from Thunder Bay in conjunction with Perimeter. Using a single ticket, new joint fares and a joint airport counter in Sioux Lookout, Bearskin and Perimeter now facilitate connections between their respective flights in Sioux Lookout making the journey seamless to the passenger as well as much more affordable. It is a similar experience as flying one airline for the whole journey. As Perimeter expanded their service throughout this past fall, new joint connecting service has included more and more Northern communities. Joint connecting service with Bearskin Airlines is now available between Thunder Bay and Deer Lake, Weagamow (Round Lake), North Spirit Lake and Bearskin Lake in addition to Sandy Lake, Pikangikum and Sachigo Lake. Joint service is also available between Winnipeg and Bearskin Lake, Sachigo Lake and Weagamow (Round Lake), while directional service is available from Winnipeg to Deer lake and North Spirit Lake. This new partnership permits the purchase of leisure and business travel using a single ticket with Bearskin Airlines. Tickets can be purchased online at www.bearskinairlines.com with Bearskin Airlines, via Bearskin’s toll free reservation center at 1-800-465-2327 or through any travel agency in Canada or USA or by contacting Perimeter Aviation at 1-800-665-8986. Bearskin Airlines offers more service between Thunder Bay and Sioux Lookout than any other airline and this new strategic partnership will make it easier and more affordable to travel between any Bearskin destination and the First Nations communities north of Sioux Lookout. I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to the many people who have supported our service long term. We are grateful for that support and we look forward to welcoming you aboard in the future as you connect to one of several Northern Communities. 

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AS SEASONS CHANGE, SO DO WE. We adapt to your changing needs and the world around us whether its Business or Personal. #peopleinspired

Fort Frances Thunder Bay Dryden Atikokan Sioux Lookout Emo

Red Lake Rainy River Kenora Geraldton Longlac

1-800-465-7797 gillons.on.ca

Kapuskasing Thunder Bay Timmins Sault Ste. Marie

Call 1 800 465 2327 or your travel agent

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Book online at www.bearskinairlines.com

Sudbury

North Bay

ENGINEERING A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES BUILDINGS > TRANSPORTATION > OIL & GAS > GEOMATICS MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE > ENVIRONMENT > MINING | ENERGY | INDUSTRIAL WINNIPEG: 204-477-1260 > THUNDER BAY: 807-625-6700 > SUDBURY: 705-674-0119 TIMMINS: 705-264-9413 > SAULT STE. MARIE: 705-942-2070 wspgroup.ca YXL 1-6pg Ad Bear Country FINAL.pdf

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Publisher/managing Editor  Ron Hell Editor  Patti Gresham Advertising Sales  Helen Trochimchuk (807) 474-2652 Writers  Elle Andra-Warner, Lorna Olson, Nadine Robinson Photography Credits  Aric Fishman, Goh Iromoto, Jess Vamplew Design + Production  Good Design Lithography  Premier Printing Publications Mail Agreement No. 40013935 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to:     

1475 West Walsh Street Thunder Bay, Ont. P7E 4X6 Phone (807) 474-2636 Fax (807) 474-2658 bearskinairlines.com

Bear Country is published by  Bearskin Lake Air Service LP

ISBN D702544

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(NC) Don’t let a lost or delayed suitcase put a damper on your holidays — use these tips from the Canadian Transportation Agency to help keep you and your precious belongings from parting ways.

1

Stand out. Brightly coloured baggage with unique prints and patterns will help your bag stand out in a crowd and prevent someone else from mistakenly picking it up as their own. Plain black is the most common colour, so avoid this if  you can. You can also save by decorating your existing suitcase with stickers, fabric, or tape.

2 Make a list of  items in your bag.

This will come in handy in case you need to make a claim for lost items. If  your bags are delayed, keep all receipts for necessary purchases.

3 Update your airline tags. Before

leaving for the airport, remove any old airline tags. When you receive a new one, be sure the airport code matches your destination.

4 Pack lightly. The best way to avoid

losing your luggage is to not check in any at all — pack lightly and efficiently and fit everything into your carry-on.

5 Label wisely. Always include your

contact information and your destination contact information inside each piece of  baggage. This helps identify baggage if  any outside tag was damaged or lost.

6 Have a backup plan. If  you’re

travelling with someone or are checking more than one bag, divide up your contents. This way, if  one gets lost, you won’t automatically lose all your stuff. Always keep essential and valuable items with you on board.

7 Take pictures. If  your luggage does

go missing, this will help provide a record of  what it looked like on the outside and the contents inside. This will come in handy when an airline staff  member is helping you find it, or if  you need to file a complaint or insurance claim.

8 Go the smart route. Invest in a

tracking device that you can place inside your luggage and connect and track with your smartphone.

9 Fly direct. Minimize your chances

of  a delayed flight or a luggage transfer between connections separating you from your goods whenever possible. Opt for the direct route instead — the extra cost may save you grief  at the carousel.

10 Know who to call with a problem.

If  your luggage is lost, damaged, or delayed, knowing who to call for help will save you time and frustration. You should first contact your airline with your baggage issue. They have strict claim time periods. If  that doesn’t work, you can file a complaint with the Canadian Transportation Agency. Find more information online at cta.gc.ca/air-travel-complaints.

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Courtesy of  Tourism Thunder Bay Whether you are travelling to Thunder Bay for business or pleasure, be sure to bring seasonal clothing, bundle up, and embrace the snow – as this is a magical time to get outside and enjoy all the adventure that the city and surrounding region offers. OKAY, we’re not going to lie – the winters here are quite chilly and snowy. However, that’s exactly why Thunder Bay is one of  Canada’s best winter destinations. Blessed with excellent conditions, we’re fast becoming a mecca for a variety of  winter escapades. From ice climbing to ice skating, skiing, and snowshoeing to authentic Finnish saunas, festivals, and events that warm the winter air – there is truly something for everyone.

Cross-country skiers can sample the scenic vistas of  the Nor’Wester Mountains at Kamview Nordic Centre, the pristine wilderness trails of  Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, the challenge of  world-class racing at Lappe, or the picturesque surroundings on Kakabeka Falls and Mink Mountain trails. Many of  Ontario’s Provincial Parks remain open throughout the winter to offer fantastic cross-country and snowshoe trails. In addition, be sure to mark your calendars for Thunder Bay’s best-known ski race – the Sleeping Giant Loppet held on Saturday, March 4, 2017. It’s also marking its fortieth anniversary this year and 800-plus competitors are sure to get into the spirit of  celebration. Visit sleepinggiantloppet.ca for full details.

Plenty of  snow and steep vertical drops make for excellent downhill skiing and snowboarding. Two of  the best downhill areas in the northwest – Mount Baldy and Loch Lomond offer runs to satisfy all – from beginner to thrill-seeking experts. Each resort provides equipment rentals and food and beverage service. Both the Best Western Plus Nor’Wester and Prince Arthur Waterfront Hotel in partnership with local ski areas have come together to offer some amazing Ski & Stay packages (alpine and nordic) that cannot be overlooked this season.

Prince Arthur’s Landing ice rink in Marina Park. Photo courtesy of  the City of  Thunder Bay Tourism ©Goh Iromoto.

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The price if  definitely right whether you’re a first timer wanting to test out the skiing in our neck of  the woods or looking for that perfect gift for someone special who loves the sport. Your next adventure is as easy to get to as visiting visitthunderbay.com/ skithunderbay.

Photos courtesy of  the City of  Thunder Bay Tourism ©Goh Iromoto.

REMOTE LOCATIONS? NO PROBLEM! REMOTE ACCESS FROM TELECO WILL HELP YOU STAY CONNECTED

Richard Martin, Business Account Manager

Ryan Johnson, Business Account Manager

We look forward to offering you the newest technology and most efficient products to help your business move forward. Contact us today.

Penny Belluz, Landline Manager 1218 Amber Drive, Thunder Bay 345-2900 • 1-800-465-3933 [email protected] www.teleco.ca

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CANADA’S GATEWAY TO THE WEST

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$370 Million Annual Economic Contribution

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From Thunder Bay and Red Rock to Marathon and Orient Bay on Lake Nipigon, this is the ultimate ice-climbing country, where dozens of  ice-clad routes reach heights of  over 90 metres (300 feet) and the waterfalls freeze so thick that the ice can stay until early Spring. Hook up with Aric Fishman of  Outdoor Skills and Thrills for an ultimate climbing experience. Or get your hands on a copy of  Thunder Bay Climbing – a 425-page full colour guidebook written by Aric that describes the rugged cliffs and crags in the Thunder Bay, Lake Superior and Northwest Ontario region. Go to outdoorskillsandthrills.com to learn more. Fat Biking is one of  the hottest trends in outdoor adventure and Thunder Bay is “a mecca” according to Explore Magazine, to ride the big tire bikes in the summer, but especially in winter. The trails within city limits at Centennial Park and the single track at Shuniah Mines (maintained by Blacksheep Mountain Bike Club) both offer awesome rides. Or escape and cycle the wilderness at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. And do not worry about bringing your bike – local cycle shops have fat bikes and mountain bikes for rent so you are covered. Looking for something a tad more low key? Enjoy the urban outdoors. Spend an afternoon or a star-lit evening skating the ice rink at Prince Arthur’s Landing in the heart of  the Waterfront District – offering unparalleled views of  Lake Superior and the Sleeping Giant. Be sure to take a romantic stroll and eenjoy the public paths and spaces that are enlivened by the City’s largest series of  public art installations to date. Finish the evening with a romantic dinner or night-cap at Bight Restaurant or make

Climbing ‘The Right Stuff ’ at Orient Bay. Credit: Outdoor Skills And Thrills – Photo by Aric Fishman.

your way across the street to the Entertainment District where you’ll find door to door pubs, clubs and lounges each with their own unique offerings and live entertainment. Celebrate the magic that only an outdoor winter festival or event can offer. Nothing is more refreshing and exhilarating than spending a day or evening taking part in winter activities, watching the fine art of  ice sculpturing, listening to music, frolicking in the snow and falling back into an impeccably untouched mound of  fresh snow to create that picture-perfect snow angel. If  you find yourself  in the city over a Sunday afternoon – make your way to Prince Arthur’s Landing for the 2017 season of  Winter Fundays January 1 – March 19th. Embrace winter by taking

THUNDER BAY A SUPERIOR MEETING EXPERIENCE

blue mind thinking—it’s in our nature.

visitthunderbay.com

Photo By: Day Vid Z Photography

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welcome to Thunder bay! Rosa Carina Base Supervisor – Thunder Bay Bearskin Airlines Western Division Born and raised in this great city, Thunder Bay is Bearskin’s centrally-located transportation hub. If here for a visit, there is lots to see and do from skating at Prince Arthur’s Landing on Lake Superior to viewing the night sky and stars at Fort William Historical Park’s astronomy centre. Thunder Bay is a great connecting point if you are travelling anywhere in Canada, the U.S. or other parts of the world. Bearskin offers many flight options and first class customer service. We look forward to serving you!

part in a different fun outdoor activity for FREE. And after you’ve enjoyed the Winter Funday activity outside, you can warm up with a creative activity inside the Baggage Building Arts Centre! Winter Fundays hours are 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm unless otherwise noted. Schedule is subject to change in situations of  extreme weather. And who doesn’t love a Winter Carnival? Especially one as unique as the Voyageur Winter Carnival held annually at Fort William Historical Park – one of  the largest living history attractions in North America. The Fort becomes a winter wonderland of  seasonal fun, as visitors enjoy a wide range of  exciting activities.  Everyone will savour tasty offerings and can take advantage of  the wide-open spaces to do some skating and curling on the Kam

River.  This year’s Festival will be held February 18-19th. You can check out all the fun being planned at fwhp.ca. Winter delights with a true northern flavour! SnowDay is a free celebration of  all things winter that takes place annually on Family Day, at Marina Park. The theme for 2017 is Canada 150! SnowDay is centered around outstanding professional snow sculptures and features activities and entertainment for all ages. There are opportunities to participate in uncommon winter sports like kicksledding and fat tire biking, try making bannock over the fire, learn snow carving, play modern and traditional winter games and go skating.  Warming activities and craft demonstrations take place inside the Baggage Building Arts Centre and Mariner’s Hall. Spectator opportunities throughout the event include music performances, buskers and demonstrations by community groups. There is also great local food and drink like bannock and hot chocolate – and you can taste and cast your vote for Best Chili at the Chili

The annual Voyageur Winter Carnival at the Fort William Historical Park offers fun for visitors of  all ages. Photos courtesy of  FWHP.

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Connect On Campus Come Together at Lakehead University Planning an event or a conference can be an overwhelming task, and Lakehead University’s Residence and Conference Services Department recognizes your need to look at the bigger picture. Let us handle the details and coordination so you can give your delegates the attention they deserve. When you host a gathering at Lakehead University, you are getting more than affordability – you’re getting modern, high-tech, facilities and flexibility. From retreats, weddings, celebrations, camps and competitions to conferences and meetings, you’ll find that we are the best option for hosting your next event. Lakehead University offers large and small venues for meetings including boardrooms, AV-equipped classrooms, lecture halls that seat up to 360 people, and a 55,000-squarefoot event space ideal for gala dinners and trade shows. Our University Centre building features several areas including a 150-seat capacity banquet room and cafeteria space, or a spacious trade show space of  6,900 feet in our Agora. Lakehead’s Athletic Centre “The Hangar” next to the C.J. Sanders Fieldhouse, features an indoor track and multipurpose field with artificial turf, an aerobics/yoga studio,

a weight room and fitness centre, and a sports medicine clinic. Lakehead’s Bartley Residence Conference Centre provides six meeting spaces that favour groups of  up to 65 people offering all standard audio-visual equipment and Wifi access. Conference Room A also offers built-in video-conferencing technology.  

Accommodations Whether you’re a conference group looking for a convenient location, a school group looking for an educational environment, a sports group seeking affordable rates, or an individual wanting to stay somewhere with great access to the City of  Thunder Bay, Lakehead University Residence is an ideal choice. From May – August, dormitories, townhouse or apartment styled lodgings are available in the range of  $35 per night. Lakehead University Residence offers a variety of  rooms to suit the needs of  travellers or groups who are looking for a convenient location. All our residence rooms are 100% smoke free. Each unit includes bedding, towels, coffee maker, tea kettle, toaster, and are all near on-campus meeting, dining, and athletics facilities.

The accommodations also offer a fully-equipped option, which includes: dishes, cutlery, cooking utensils, and small appliances for meal preparation as well as television with basic cable.  Throughout the year, we offer a limited number of  dormitory suites that include in room refrigerator, Wifi and cable television, large desk space, free local calling, bedding and towels.  Access to kitchenette with microwave, toaster oven, coffee pot, kettle and dishes as well as access to laundry.

Special Events and Conferences On-site Classic Fare Catering, a division of  ARAMARK, is Lakehead University’s catering and food services provider. We specialize in meetings, conferences and events such as weddings, birthday parties, anniversaries and lunch meetings. Your guests are our guests.  The University’s summer accommodation facilities, coordination and registration services, full-service catering, dedicated training classrooms and lecture halls have everything you need for a successful meeting or conference. Hold your next conference in an environment that stimulates minds and leave the planning to us. Contact us today by calling (807) 343-8799, or by email at [email protected]. Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  11

Cook-Off, a fundraiser in support of  Empty Bowls Caring Hearts that showcases some of  Thunder Bay’s premier restaurants and chefs. Thunder Bay celebrates winter with SnowDay on the shores of  Lake Superior on February 20, 2017. Check out the details of  this great event at thunderbay.ca/events. Whether on purpose or by chance, come and experience Thunder Bay in the winter – where you can enjoy

A frosty view of  The Sleeping Giant on Lake Superior. Photo by Jess Vamplew.

a variety of  unique outdoor and indoor events and activities that will take you from our “downhills” to our “downtown,” from boardroom to snowboarding and from cold to simply just chilling. Get inspired at visitthunderbay.com!

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Thunder Bay may have more than enough to keep you occupied and entertained during your stay, but just a short distance outside the city, charming towns and communities lie scattered across the region, each with their own unique appeal. So hit the road and travel beyond the big city lights to discover a world of  spectacular landscapes, enthralling histories, incredible experiences, and hospitable people. Start by visiting northwestontario.com!

By Lorna Olson

The Town of  Fort Frances is made up of  strong, resilient people who have survived the ups and downs of  Northern Ontario’s economy, in particular the tough times faced by the forestry industry in the past decade. Aided by having the most affordable industrial land and the lowest-cost power in Ontario, Fort Frances is open for business and is currently experiencing a surge in entrepreneurialism, thanks in no small part to the development of  New Gold’s Rainy River Project (RRP). Grant Goddard, General Manager of  the RRP says it is coming along well, and on schedule for commercial production mid-2017. Much of  the conveyor systems and major equipment are in place, and electrical and mechanical work is

Amos Brielmann, operator of  Brielmann Agriculture Limited, along with his son, looks over their field of  Canola. Courtesy of  Rainy River Future Development Corporation (RRFDC).

being completed. Once in operation, the processing rate will be 21,000 tonnes per day from a combination of  open pit, underground and stockpiled ore; this will result in 325,000 ounces of  gold per year. He notes that larger mining supply and service companies are working through local businesses in Fort Frances and the Rainy River District at present, but it’s possible some of  them may open a branch once the mine is in production. Today, in 2016, the project has 333 permanent New Gold staff, of  which 80% are local including 32% Indigenous. By April or May, 2017 this will increase to about 410, and towards the end of  2017 this will grow to 450. “If  we cannot hire for some roles locally, we reach out to Northwestern Ontario and then beyond, but our focus is always to strive to hire locally, have our employees living in the Rainy River District and becoming part of  the community.”

Goddard sums up, “People are the backbone of  our business, and we’re very proud of  the people that our part of  our New Gold family – we have an awesome team!” Tannis Drysdale is the Economic Development Officer for the Town of  Fort Frances, and she confirms that the RRP has been a huge economic boost, with increased employment, home rentals and sales. “Our subdivision has already sold 11 of  its 16 lots, and the townhouses on the waterfront are in the final stages of  the exteriors, with interior construction to be completed over the winter months so the units will be ready for spring,” she notes.

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Start Your Journey in International Falls

Far left and top: 2015-2016 Fort Frances Muskie Boys Gold Metal Team, winners at the OFSAA in Ottawa.

•Daily Flights •Free Parking •Free Wi-Fi •Shorter Lines •Car Rental •Easy Baggage Claim Local Commitment to World-Class Service www.internationalfallsairport.com www.delta.com

Bottom: Fort Frances is a fisherman’s paradise all year round.

La Place Rendez-Vous Hotel

to Rainy River District to compete for the 69th annual Ontario High School Boys’ Hockey Championship.

Mainstreet Market Square, located on the property where the Rainy Lake Hotel once stood, should be completed by July 1, 2017. It will include a covered stage, a water feature, and open air spaces for a variety of  activities to draw locals and visitors to the centre of  town. March 21-24, 2017 will see close to 500 people sleeping, eating, and spending time and money in Fort Frances and the surrounding communities during the Provincial A/AA Boys Hockey Championships. 16 teams, 320 players, 90 coaches, managers, and trainers along with many families of  the teams will travel

Bob Miller is on the organizing committee, and he says, “We estimate conservatively that, during the Tournament, over $400,000 will be spent in these communities by people coming from outside our District. “Our all-in estimate budget is between $66,000 and $72,000, and our sponsorship target is $50,000. Many businesses and people from the area are strongly supporting this endeavor, because they believe in the benefits to Fort Frances and the District.” For visitors, the winter months can be fun if  you dress for the weather. There are many activities: curling, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, broomball, hockey, and snowmobiling on groomed trails are just a few things you can enjoy in Fort Frances-Rainy River.

LakesideDining Whirlpool Deluxe Rooms • Sand beach • Stay & Play golf packages •

Located on the shores of Beautiful Rainy Lake

1-800-544-9435 www.rendezvoushotel.com [email protected] 1201 Idylwild Drive B2, RR2, Fort Frances, ON P9A 3M3 Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  15

welcome to Fort Frances! Monique Isensee Passenger Service Agent Check in with our awesome passenger service agents who offer you great service in our quaint airport. While in town catch a local hockey game in a variety of leagues, see the locals fishing on the ice and brave the cold for a walk on the waterfront. Grab a bite to eat or have a relaxing night at one of our newly revamped restaurants or hotels!

Construction advances inside the Processing Plant at New Gold’s Rainy River Project. Courtesy of New Gold Inc.

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Geoff  Gillon is the Regional Economic Developer and Manager of  Client Services for the Rainy River Future Development Corporation (RRFDC). When asked about housing in the District, he noted that six or seven homes as well as a 16-unit apartment building were constructed in 2016, in Emo Township. Regarding economic development in the Region, he spoke about the tile drainage and land clearing being done by area farmers, with investment from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund.

RRFDC has received $1 million to clear land on 2,423 acres, and another $1 million to install tile drainage on 2,114 acres of  land. These two projects will help participating farmers improve their land base as they move from cattle farming to production of  cash crops such as corn, hops, barley, oats, hay and soybeans. At present, Gillon says seven or eight farmers are involved. Amos Brielmann and his son Timo operate Brielmann Agriculture Limited, and for 25 years they were beef  cattle farmers. Beginning in 2012,

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XTREME TERRAIN VEHICLES Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  17

LEARN THE SIGNS OF STROKE

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they began growing small grains, several types of  wheat, oats, barley, soybeans and canola. They sold off  their cattle three years ago, and are now the only cash crop farm in the area. The rainy weather – reflected in the District’s name – is a real challenge. “We get a lot of  rain, so without tile drainage, you just couldn’t do it,” says Timo. Tile drainage consists of  using pipes made up of  perforated plastic to help move water off  the fields, making cash crop farming more viable and thus more attractive to farmers. With more farms involved, it will be easier to find suitable equipment, chemicals and other supplies. In the past, Brielmann had to go to Manitoba to obtain these necessities. Installing tile drainage is expensive: about $1,000 per acre, according to Amos. Brielmann Agriculture has

already tiled 3,000 acres, and plans to do another 1,000 acres in the future. Recently, they built a grain handling facility, and are selling the crops through Thunder Bay’s grain elevators. Amos explains, “Some of  our crops go to Minnesota, and we export soybeans; canola is shipped to Hamilton or exported, as well as wheat.” Looking ahead, it would seem that Fort Frances and Rainy River District will continue growing and diversifying. The town’s location on Rainy Lake and the Canada-US border makes it an attractive destination for American visitors who come to enjoy year-round recreation. While the Region is enjoying an economic boom thanks to the New Gold Project, there’s an awareness that resourcebased industry has a finite lifespan, and a determination to attract new business and new residents, building on today’s successes.

to call 9-1-1 right away. ACT BECAUSE THE QUICKER YOU ACT, THE MORE OF THE PERSON YOU SAVE.

Installing pipes for tile drainage in the fields at Brielmann Agriculture Limited. Courtesy of RRFDC.

© Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, 2016

Generously supported by

Learn more at heartandstroke.ca /FAST 18  Bear Country In-Flight Magazine

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The Mattagami River flows through the City of  Timmins.

By Nadine Robinson

Back in 2011, an 8-year strategic plan aimed to change Timmins, for the better by the year 2020, was penned. Now in the implementation phase, projects centered around the Timmins 2020’s objectives are coming to fruition for economic diversification, community investment, quality of  life, and community pride. That said, no development story on Timmins is complete without addressing the sector that built the city: mining. Porcupine Gold Mines (PGM)-Goldcorp announced this past summer that it will not close its 106-year-old mine, Dome mine, which had been scheduled to close this past October. In fact, there is speculation that gold mining will be extended at the Dome for several years.

Also in the mining sector, the Timmins Economic Development Corporation TEDC, is leading a three-year project to address mining supply and industrial mineral investment attraction. A mining supply gap analysis will be completed, alongside developing value propositions, marketing, and lead generation plans.

Economic Diversification Timmins is focused on growing the agricultural sector, due to the abundance of  land. TEDC is working on helping local farmers access funding to build capacity, but is also looking for funding for regional programs such as for tile drainage and cold weather crop trials.

Foreign direct investment is another way Timmins is drawing in capital and creating jobs. With several projects in the pipeline, the Calabrian project and the Jiangsu Tianlong Basalt Co. Ltd. Project are the most notable. Construction, which began in 2015, is nearing completion on a sulphur dioxide manufacturing plant, office, maintenance, and utility buildings at the Hallnor Road industrial rail park. After a lengthy site selection process, Timmins won out over sites in Quebec and North Eastern Ontario, to establish Calabrian’s new SO2 plant. Timmins was notable for its centrality to the gold mines and for its rail access. The plant will provide gold mines in Ontario and Quebec with a local source for rendering the cyanide Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  19

harmless. Cyanide is used to leach gold from ore and then is converted to cyanate by sulphur dioxide. Calabrian’s proprietary technology is billed as a virtually emission-free and environmentally friendly process, which has been in commercial use for over 20 years at their facility in Texas. To date, 16 new full-time employees have been hired and have begun training, for an imminent start to production. INEOS, a Swiss manufacturing company, purchased Calabrian in August of  this year, to add to its worldwide portfolio of  65 production sites in 16 countries.

welcome to timmins! Tasha Bustraen Passenger Service Agent Come visit Timmins! There is something for everyone in the City with a heart of Gold! We have a wide variety of hotels as well as attractions for the winter. Take a ride at Cedar Meadows to get up close with a moose and feed the deer. Enjoy outdoor skating at Sk8te Hollinger where we have the largest oval 8 rink in Canada! Bearskin offers quick connections within our stations as well with major airlines to get you here faster to enjoy our amazing city and everything it has to offer.

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The city has also been working with all levels of  government to build a relationship with Chinese company Jiangsu Tianlong Basalt Co. Ltd. with the aim of  moving forward on a Basalt Fibre Rockwool Insulation Plant, also to be located at the new industrial rail park. Meetings have been held in Timmins, Toronto, and in China, resulting in the signing of  a letter of  intent regarding the feasibility of  the plant in Timmins. More recently, as part of  Prime Minister Trudeau’s mission to China, a letter of  agreement to move the project forward was signed.

Construction is planned to begin in 2017, and as such, Timmins representatives continue to work with the Chinese on finalizing land requirements, acquiring funding, and preparing for the construction phase. This project is expected to create approximately 50 new full-time jobs.

Quality of Life: Pickleball anyone? The city is currently pursuing feasibility and geotechnical studies for a new aquatic and multi-use recreation center. The RFP for the

Top left: Calabrian information session presented to the City of  Timmins. Bottom left: Spectators at the annual Great Canadian Kayak Festival enjoy the musical fireworks extravaganza. Right: Aerial view of  Timmins.

new aquatic center includes an eight-lane competitive pool, leisure pool with play structure and slides, lazy river, hot tubs, saunas, indoor tennis, squash and pickleball courts. While working on securing funding, the city of  Timmins is issuing an RFP, with the goal of  awarding the construction contract mid-2017. “Together we can help ensure Timmins rises above the immediate challenges and remains a great place to live, learn and play for generations to come,” said the Mayor or Timmins, Steven Black, during his October state of  the city, 2016 speech. “This investment will enrich the quality of  life for our residents, serve as a regional tourism attraction, which will in turn support local businesses and will also help with our attempts to attract new residents, retain youth, and ensure residents from toddlers to seniors can lead an active life year round.”

Community Investment Timmins is also investing in infrastructure, which has resulted in a number of  service enhancements for the community including new playground equipment and swing sets, recoating the tennis courts, and replacing the Curling Club roof, among others. On a larger scale, the construction of  a new UV disinfection system is a fifth complete, and is expected to be operational by late spring 2017. The project is valued at $5.2 million and the new system is expected to significantly reduce the use of  chlorine for the city’s water supply. Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  21

Roadways are also seeing significant improvements, most notably the completion of  phase one of  the Connecting Link, which is reconstructing 21.2 km of  the main highway spanning across Timmins. Timmins received $3 million from the Provincial Government’s Connecting Link Program and have applied for the same funding for phase two. FedNor announced close to $3.5 million to support growth in Timmins. The City received close to $2.5 million to expand municipal services at the new industrial rail park. The Bucket Shop, who manufactures and refurbishes equipment buckets for surface and underground mining, received $1 million towards the construction of  a new 65,000 square-foot facility. This marks the third expansion for the company since it was founded in 1990 and includes office buildings and the fabrication shop which caters to specialty work for the mining industry. The facility boasts state-of-the-art technology in ventilation, fume extraction, cutting, and bending, and is equipped with a 70-tonne overhead crane. 22  Bear Country In-Flight Magazine

Timmins Mayor Steve Black announces the details and line-up of entertainers to perform at Stars and Thunder 2017 Festival.

Quality of Life and Community Pride: Let’s Celebrate! Typically, we wouldn’t mention Canada Day celebrations in the winter, but this year the City of  Timmins is planning an eight-day festival worthy of  advance notice. The Stars and Thunder 2017 Festival will include an international fireworks competition featuring teams from Brazil, China, Finland, France, Italy, Ukraine, United Kingdom, and Canada.  The fireworks will be paired with eight nights of  concerts starting on June 24 to celebrate Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day. The festival culminates with international country music icon Keith Urban on Canada’s 150th birthday along with Johnny Reid and Meaghan Patrick. For tickets and festival information visit www.starsandthunder.com. Another reason to celebrate, is that at its October meeting, council approved an application from Full Beard Brewing for a brewery

including retail sales, a tasting room and a patio tasting area. The brewery’s first beer, Five O’clock Shadow was recently made available to the public. While classified under just one pillar for clarity, many of  these projects will produce betterment for more than one category of  the strategic plan. A new aquatic centre supports both community investment and quality of  life. Similarly, economic diversification including foreign direct investment also provides jobs, and thus improves quality of  life. Improving the main highway reflects community investment and also betters residents’ quality of  life. Overall, and perhaps it goes without saying, that all this advancement in Timmins will also all add to the community pride pillar of  Timmins 2020. Timmins 2020, is providing results.

TIMMINS

the great outdoors and more! June 24-July 1, 2017 Competing Countries Team France Team Italy Team Finland Team Ukraine Team China Team Brazil Team United Kingdom Team Canada

and 2017 Timmins International Fireworks Competition & Music Festival

More details at starsandthunder.com

Music Festival Line-up Saturday | June 24 Michel Pagliaro LGS Cindy Doire Sunday | June 25 David Wilcox Sass Jordan Scarlett Jane Céleste Lévis

Monday | June 26 Tom Cochrane with Red Rider

Wednesday | June 28 Hedley Alyssa Reid

Friday | June 30 Cold Creek County The Washboard Union

Tuesday | June 27 Simple Plan Lights

Thursday | June 29 April Wine Alan Frew The Box

Saturday | July 1 Keith Urban Johnny Reid Meghan Patrick Sons of Maxwell

…and more

9th Annual

Great Canadian Kayak Challenge & Festival

Line-up of artists subject to change

Up to

15,000 in cash $

prizes!

FREE on Admissi

August 25-27, 2017

• Paddling categories for all ages, from novice to expert, youth to seniors and a chance to win fantastic prizes and cash • 3-person Fun Sprint Competition • Performing Arts, Aboriginal Village, Friday and Saturday evening live concert featuring Mudmen, Hotel California, Saturday Night Special and many more • Vendors Marketplace & Food Court • Saturday night Fireworks Extravaganza • 5 km Guided Family Leisure Paddle & Shore Lunch • Summer Water Sports Ski & Flyboard Stunt Shows To register or for additional information contact Guy Lamarche 705-360-2640 or [email protected]

thegreatcanadiankayakchallenge.com

photo credits: Rob Armstrong, Jennifer Massie and Lacey Rigg

Timmins, Ontario

Mayors Outlook 2017 We asked the Mayors in Bear Country, “What opportunities or major projects will be undertaken in your community in 2017?”

Red Lake

Mayor Brian Bowman Winnipeg, Manitoba

Winnipeg

Kenora

Sioux Lookout Dryden Fort Frances

Kapuskasing

Thunder Bay

Winnipeg has been growing increasingly popular as a tourist destination – just ask National Geographic and Vogue Magazines, both of  which recently called our city a must-visit destination! Our beautiful prairie skies, abundant lakes and forests, friendly hospitality, and bustling metropolitan centre are just a few of  the reasons you need to add Winnipeg to your list of  trips this year. We’ve long been known for our thriving arts and culture scene – The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is awe-inspiring, both in architecture and exhibits, and the Winnipeg Art Gallery is home to the largest public collection of  contemporary Inuit art in the world. Our sports teams – the Winnipeg Jets, Blue Bombers, Moose, and Goldeyes – have some of  the most loyal and dedicated fans in the world. And our festivals, from Folk Fest to Folklorama, are world renowned. This year, we’re also getting ready to welcome 20,000 visitors and 4,000 athletes and coaches across 250 events for the 2017 Canada Summer Games! And if  you think Winnipeg is only a summer destination – think again! 24  Bear Country In-Flight Magazine

Timmins Sault Ste. Marie

The Arctic Glacier Winter Park at The Forks includes 1 kilometre of  skating trails with warming huts, a toboggan hill, and a snowboard park. The Festival du Voyageur, celebrating Métis and First Nations culture, has been dubbed the largest winter festival in Western Canada. Winnipeg also offers an excellent and diverse selection of  top quality restaurants and shopping, from local artisans – including celebrity favourites like Coal & Canary Candles and Manitobah Mukluks – to international retailers. Come see why everyone’s talking about Winnipeg!

 Mayor Doug Lawrance Sioux Lookout, Ontario

The positive impact on Sioux Lookout from our role as Hub of  the North for more than 30 First Nations is evident with continued growth and development in various sectors.

Sudbury

North Bay

The Municipality started the $15 million expansion of  our Airport Terminal Building in August. The existing terminal was designed to handle 40,000 passenger movements per year but our annual passenger movements now exceed 120,000. The expanded terminal will provide appropriate space for passengers and service providers. The construction of  the new Keewatin Patricia District School Board High School has started and opening is scheduled for 2018. The new High School will accommodate over 500 students both from within the Municipality and from northern First Nations. The school will truly be a ‘hub’ as Confederation College, Firefly, and a joint use Municipal Auditorium will be co-located in the school. The Regional Distribution Centre, facilitated through a Municipal-First Nation economic development initiative, will help

address food insecurity issues in northern First Nations. It is moving closer to reality as it enters the final planning stages. The co-owners of  the facility which will be located at the Municipal Airport will be: CreeWest, Lac Seul First Nation and Kitchenuhmaykoosib Ininuwug.

of  volunteerism and community pride as all municipalities across Canada look to recognize our Nation’s 150th Anniversary of  Confederation. 2017 also marks the 100th anniversary of  the battle of  Vimy Ridge where more than 66,000 of  Canada’s fighting men and women lost their lives during WW1.

The Municipality will continue with infrastructure renewal along our Gateway Corridor by extending road and infrastructure improvements along Wellington Street by the Town Beach.

Infrastructure continues to be a top priority for Council and the water main line twinning and LED street lighting projects are two examples of  that continuing commitment to providing increased reliability and efficiency in our core infrastructure while taking hold of  the opportunity afforded by the province and federal governments in their recent funding announcements.

Through unique partnerships, the Kenora District Services Board will construct a 20-unit supportive housing facility in 2017. Capital, operational and programming partners include KDSB, Ontario Aboriginal Housing, Northwest LHIN, Meno Ya Win Health Centre, and the Municipality.

Mayor  Greg Wilson Dryden, Ontario

City staff, citizens, clubs, and organizations in Dryden have been working hard in the last year to plan improvements to ‘Our Wilderness City.’ A few highlights include the arena renovations and extension, creation of  a cultural garden at Dryden’s Regional Training and Cultural Centre (upon funding approval) spearheaded by Dryden Rotary Club, Winter Festival/ National Aboriginal Day/ Canada Day, LED street lighting, and water main line twinning. The City is focusing on matching City dollars with funders and service delivery partnerships wherever possible. The proposed new garden will enable Dryden residents and visitors to learn about and enjoy our growing arts & culture sector. The garden can be used for educational opportunities for our youth. It will provide a relaxing environment to gain hands on learning of  the environment, music, art, gardening, and the importance

Together with Council, City staff, and fellow community leaders our community grows and succeeds as we support each other. Please join us and share in the coming celebrations and excitement for 2017!

Mayor Phil Vinet Red Lake, Ontario

Greetings from the beautiful Municipality of  Red Lake to all readers of  Bear Country Magazine. The Red Lake area continues to be an exciting place to live, work, play and grow. We have a lot to offer everyone! We expect 2017 to be another exciting chapter in Red Lake’s history as we are continually looking to expand our economic, social, environmental and cultural developments. Our new splash park is expected to open in June and will undoubtedly be a welcome addition to our recreation cluster at Centennial Park. On February 17th weekend, we will be hosting our annual Winter Carnival, a very popular event designed for family entertainment. Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  25

Our summers include our worldfamous Norseman Festival, the Red Lake Fall Classic Walleye Fishing Tournament and the Angler-Young Angler Fishing Tournament. We look forward to celebrating Canada’s 150th Birthday with events planned for our annual July 1st celebration. We are excited about our new downtown waterfront development, which includes significant upgrades and waterfront beautification. These enhancements have enhanced our various waterfront activities. We continue to develop meaningful relationships with our precious First Nations neighbours and look forward to further engagement with these communities. Red Lake continues to be a world class address for mining exploration and production just as we have been for the past 90 years. We invite everyone to include Red Lake in their travel plans. Come and experience natural beauty, blue skies and a warm welcome from all of  us here.

Mayor  David Canfield Kenora, Ontario

The City of  Kenora is committed to maintaining the momentum of  our strategic plan “Our Vision is 20/20”. Our vision is that Kenora is a City of  choice, renowned as a sustainable, lifestyle community supported by a Municipality committed to excellence. Our mission is to deliver quality, cost-effective Municipal Services. We are proud to be North America’s Premier Boating Destination and continue to promote our brand. Kenora continues to attract thousands of  visitors each summer season but our City is quickly becoming a year round destination of  choice, not only for our beautiful lakes 26  Bear Country In-Flight Magazine



with advanced exploration ongoing throughout the district and New Gold is preparing to open a gold mine.

and area, but for all our events and recreational amenities. Kenora has a rich history of  hockey and in February 2017 we will host the Scotiabank Hockey Day in Canada event. Kenora has also been chosen to host the Canada Summer Games rowing events in 2017 and the community is actively working towards the success of  such a significant national event. Community partnerships and fundraising initiatives continue to grow and are strengthening our community, which will result in improvements to our baseball fields and tennis courts as well as the development of  an accessible splash park.

If  you are looking for your next hometown or a place to set up shop, Fort Frances is regarded as the industrial capital of  Northwestern Ontario. Fort Frances continues to offer the lowest hydro rates in Ontario, industrial lots selling at $3,500 an acre and a local government ready to help you locate your business in our community.

Mayor  Keith Hobbs Thunder Bay, Ontario

On January 1, 2020, the City of  Thunder Bay will be 50 years old – we are quickly approaching the Golden Jubilee, a milestone we are proud of.

We are excited to be a part of  Canada’s next Gold Mining District,



 Thunder Bay has so much to offer. We are proud of  our high quality of  life and our goal is to promote a clean, green, beautiful and healthy community that provides economic opportunity, respects diversity and provides affordable and safe neighbourhoods that are accessible to all.  By working together, we are making our City a better place.

 Now, more than ever, we are focusing our efforts on making what we have even better.

Our future remains bright, and we are excited!

Fort Frances is located on the Canadian-American border beside Rainy River and Rainy Lake in the Crossroute Forest. We are proud that Rainy Lake is known as the home of  the best Bass fishing in North America.

 Major Master Plans will be put in motion this coming year to further a prosperous and more resilient city. We have engaged the community in these plans, and will move forward on action items in the Stormwater Management Plan, Recreation and Facilities Master Plan, the Civic Pride Plan, the Climate Adaptation Strategy, and so much more.

Whether your next visit to our community is for business or pleasure, we thank you for stopping in and we look forward to seeing you soon.

Kenora continues to be a leader in the Northwest through our economic development successes with many new small to medium size business openings, and has recognized the success of  the re-opening of  the Kenora Forest Products mill in 2016. The Province has recently announced project funding for the engineering and design work for a new consolidated services terminal building at the Kenora Airport and we are looking forward to the construction of  the new airport terminal as well as other expansions. OLG discussions continue as well regarding the casino project in Kenora.

Mayor  Roy Avis Fort Frances, Ontario

 Another goal is to be ‘Sustainable through enhanced infrastructure renewal.’ We will continue to invest in our infrastructure, with major upgrades planned to roads, trails, facilities and more.



 We are committed to a Healthy, Vibrant, Connected and Strong City. We continue to work hard to capture the key themes we heard from thousands of  residents during the development of  our 2015-2018 Corporate Strategic Plan, Becoming our Best, to articulate a shared vision for where we need to head.  Goals like a ‘Unified city of  strong, active vibrant neighbourhoods.’ We are targeting our efforts to engage residents as ambassadors for our great city and build civic pride.  We pride ourselves on being one of  Canada’s premier outdoor cities, and we are focused on connecting with the world in new ways. One of  our goals is to create a ‘Premier visitor destination’ that is second-to-none.

Free and confidential succession planning services. Want to buy a business in Thunder Bay? Visit: w w w.t h u n d e r b ay. c a /BusinessOpportunities

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  27

Mayor  Christian Provenzano Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

It was an eventful year in Sault Ste. Marie in 2016. The City enjoyed a great year for tourism and a number of  high-profile events including the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge were held in the community. We also saw a several projects come to fruition, many of  them taking place in our downtown Canal District. In September of  2016, we cut the ribbon on one of  North America’s largest asphalt pump tracks. Now there is a great venue downtown for bikers and skateboarders to practice their skills. We were also able to establish a community orchard and sugar bush in the same area, thanks to a grant from CN’s EcoConnexions program. We also finished a major road reconstruction

project in the city’s historic Gore Street neighbourhood, complete with wider boulevards and new landscaping. Looking ahead to 2017, we anticipate more exciting developments taking place in the downtown. Parks Canada is doing significant work at the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site and we look forward to seeing the results of  those efforts. More work is in the planning stages for the Mill Square site and also at the Algoma Conservatory of  Music. Mayor and Council are also looking forward to the year ahead. The City of  Sault Ste. Marie adopted a new corporate strategic plan in 2016 and we will be working to deliver on its priorities in 2017.

Mayor Brian Bigger Sudbury, Ontario

As the cold weather approaches and we begin to look forward to another exciting year ahead of  us, it’s important that we reflect on what’s going on across the community as well as City Council’s progress to date. As I write to you, Council and I are engaged in some important conversations regarding the 2017 Budget and the important investments we will be making across Greater Sudbury. Thanks to contributions from other levels of  government, it is proposed for us to spend just under two hundred and thirty million dollars in capital investments to our physical infrastructure, transit system, roads, water/wastewater, and other projects. These investments are crucial to the sustainability of  our community and will allow us to grow our local economy. Furthermore, in the coming months, Council will be working closely with City Staff  and project consultants on the planning, development and implementation of  four large projects 28  Bear Country In-Flight Magazine

endorsed in principle by City Council including: The Place des Arts, Art Gallery of  Sudbury/New Main Public Library, Synergy Centre, and a new area and event centre complex. These four large projects are bold, innovative and certainly have the potential to shape the future of  the community. As a Council, we are looking forward to 2017 and the many new opportunities that come our way. I encourage you to follow along with all of  the activity taking place and look forward to seeing you soon!

Mayor Steve Black Timmins, Ontario

The City of  Timmins has continued to gain momentum throughout 2016 and we are preparing for a busy year in 2017, with a number of  new and ongoing City projects underway, economic development initiatives and festival celebrations in the queue. We are ramping up for another year of  festivals and events; however, in 2017 we are celebrating Canada 150 with a bang! I’m excited to be the host City of  the Stars and Thunder – Timmins International Fireworks Competition and Music Festival. This celebration will bring together Timmins’ multitude of  cultures over a period of  eight days to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday. Set around Hollinger Park and Gillies Lake, the celebration will feature daily musical performances featuring local and headlining artists, capped off  by an international fireworks competition each evening. For additional information on the festival please visit the website, www.starsandthunder.com. We have some major projects underway and in the New Year we will be completing the design and construction RFP (Request for Proposal) for a new aquatic center; commencing revitalization and improvement projects of  community assets; moving into phase 2 of  our Connecting Link

Project, the reconstruction of  21.2 km of  main highway spanning across Timmins. There also continues to be a lot of  activity surrounding foreign direct investment where multiple community partners are working together to progress the Calabrian project, a Sulphur Dioxide Plant and the Jiangsu Tianlong Basalt project, a basalt fiber production plant. Both plants will be located at our new industrial rail park developed in 2016.

Hosting world class

I am confident in the vision for Timmins and look forward to future growth in 2017 and years to come.

Mayor  Alan Spacek Kapuskasing, Ontario



meetings!

UNIQUE MEETING FACILITIES

Greetings, Bonjour, Wachay from the Town of  Kapuskasing. 2017 is shaping up to be another great year. We expect to break ground on the construction of  a new $8M swimming pool and complete close to $9M in capital works projects. Our energy corporation, Énergie Kapuskasing Energy, is planning to build over 12 megawatts of  solar projects across the province. This will provide new long-term source of  revenues to communities in Ontario. General Motors of  Canada is investing $10M in its Cold Weather testing facility. The investment solidifies the company’s presence and commitment to supporting good paying jobs in the region. It also means that Kapuskasing will help shape the evolution toward vehicles that are connected, autonomous, shared and electric. Our regional approach to economic development has helped us diversify and positioned our residents and businesses to benefit from all opportunities. Kapuskasing is situated directly on Trans-Canada Highway 11 and

MULTI-MEDIA SERVICES CATERING SERVICES TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITIES TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

Situated on the banks of the beautiful Kaministiquia River in Thunder Bay, our heritage site provides the perfect setting for your meeting or event in any season. We offer both modern and historic meeting and conference facilities complete with multi-media services and Wi-Fi, team building activities and tours, bus service to and from your hotel, and catering services.

Book your corporate adventure with us! Visit www.fwhp.ca for corporate packages and bookings

For t William Historic al Park 1350 King Road • Thunder Bay 807-473-2344 • www.f whp.ca Paid for by the Government of Ontario

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  29

strategically located on the rail and air networks. There are 12 active mining operations within the region, and more than 40 other mines within 400 km of  Kapuskasing. Less than 250 nautical miles from the Ring of  Fire, coupled with affordable land at the airport business park, we are an ideal location for mining supply and service providers. We also sit within the Great Clay Belt region. The region is known for its fertile land and for being the largest undeveloped tract of  land in North America. Climate change and escalating land prices in southern Ontario make Kapuskasing and its relatively inexpensive land as an attractive location for agricultural expansion. Crops that thrive in cooler climates and livestock production are areas were growth is evident. The forestry sector continues to thrive in our area and Tembec remains our largest employer. The company employs over 550 people and provides economic opportunities to many.

Our progressive and forward looking approach will continue to bring prosperity for all. Kapuskasing has all the necessary amenities and remains a great place to live, work and play. We welcome you to discover our beautiful community.

Mayor  Allan McDonald North Bay, Ontario

As our slogan suggests North Bay is truly a gateway; a gateway to the north and to opportunity. Located just 3.5 hours north of  Toronto and 4 hours northwest of  Ottawa our community is easily accessible by ground and air. The North Bay Jack Garland Airport is home to the only 10,000foot runway in Northern Ontario and is the site of  our newest industrial park. With fully-serviced municipal land available for lease or sale, the

industrial park can accommodate both airside and groundside projects.



The Airport and City welcomes the Ministry of  Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) as the newest tenant in the industrial park. In 2016, the MNFR announced a $9.5 million investment to relocate and modernize their Fire Response Facility in North Bay. Currently under construction, the North Bay Fire Management Headquarters will be housed in a new state-of-theart 12,000 square-foot facility staffed by seven fire ranger crews and support personnel. In addition to enhancing the region’s capacity to respond to fire emergencies, the investment by the Province complements the growing aviation cluster in North Bay. New investment in the community is also evident in North Bay’s downtown. A multi-million dollar development including a new 100-room hotel and two stand alone restaurants will serve as an anchor to the downtown waterfront vision. The hotel project, along with a new 59,000 square-foot office building for the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit and expected expansion of  the Marina Point Retirement Living complex are projects helping to reshape the heart of  North Bay. Foundational to North Bay’s new Downtown Waterfront Master Plan, these projects will help further foster a live, work, play approach to redeveloping the city’s core. The Downtown Waterfront Master Plan Study, which is expected to be completed in 2017, will outline short, medium and longterm recommendations to further develop the vision for the area. North Bay continues our open for business philosophy and is working with community business leaders to help shape North Bay’s future. Our firms continue to diversify and North Bay is positioning itself  to seize future opportunities.

AEROSPACE/AVIATION PARK AEROSPACE/AVIATION PARK

DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

We invite you to make North Bay your next travel destination. Come and explore business or educational opportunities while you experience the natural beauty and warm hospitality of  North Bay. Visit us at www.cityofnorthbay.ca today.

30  Bear Country In-Flight Magazine

Progress continues on the open pit at New Gold’s Rainy River Project. Courtesy of  New Gold Inc.

By Elle Andra-Warner Celebrations are cool and there’s a good reason to celebrate in Northern Ontario when its newest gold mine – New Gold Inc. in the Rainy River district – goes into production in mid-2017. And the economic benefits reach beyond the mine. “The New Gold Inc.’s Rainy River project is a positive economic driver for the region including Thunder Bay. Great project and deposit! Construction continues with over 30 Thunder Bay companies active or who have worked on building the mill, mine and infrastructure for the project,” said John Mason, Project Manager, Mining Services, Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission. “There are 1000 people on site now – 700 on construction and 300 who will be operating, receiving training now or pre-stripping the open pit. Direct employment will exceed 600 employees when production starts.”

While the New Gold mine is the big news item on the horizon, here’s some other major exploration and development gold projects to watch in 2017.

The property holds an indicated resource of  302,000 ounces of  gold and inferred resource of  417,000. Harte Gold expects to be in full commercial production by mid-2017.

Goldcorp-Musselwhite Mine and Redpath have commenced a $90M capital project, constructing a new internal shaft (winze) to speed up ore handling to surface.

The merger deal between Kirkland Lake Gold and Newmarket Gold closed on November 30, subject to regulatory approvals. Kirkland Lake Gold has operating mines and exploration properties in Kirkland Lake gold camp in Northeastern Ontario, including the Macassa, Taylor and Holloway-Holt mines, while Newmarket is a Canadian gold company with three underground mines in Australia. The company will continue to use the name, Kirkland Lake Gold.

Barrick Gold Corporation is undertaking an aggressive surface and underground exploration program at Hemlo, that is designed to expand mineral reserves and extend the life of the Williams Mine beyond 2021. Junior miner Harte Gold is advancing its Sugar Zone Project, located 25 kilometres north of  White River. The company is in the process of  mining a 70,000- tonne advanced exploration bulk sample from an underground ramp development.

In Geraldton, Greenstone Gold Mines (GGM) feasibility study has been completed for its Hard Rock Gold Project and the Environmental Assessment is well underway. Highlights of  the feasibility study Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  31

Visible gold in rock samples.

included life-of-mine gold production of  4.7 million ounces and 14.5 years of  operation. GGM priorities include environmental assessment, First Nation/Metis engagement, and project financing. Deficient electrical transmission into the Geraldton area is a huge impediment at this point. In the Red Lake gold mining district – which continues to be one of  the world’s most prolific gold districts – Goldcorp Inc.’s proven and probable gold mineral reserves as of  June 30, 2016, totaled 2.03 million ounces. Currently, Goldcorp is evaluating and test mining its Cochenour Gold Project as an advanced exploration project. According to Goldcorp, in 2016, exploration was focused “on building a robust geological model in the Upper Main Zone through tight spaced drilling, ramping and development.” Further infill drilling as well as step out drilling is planned at the Upper Main Zone during 2017. Two of  Ontario’s largest gold exploration drill programs, both located in the Red Lake mining district, is being carried out by Pure Gold Mining Inc. on the Madsen Gold project and Premier Gold Mines Ltd. on their Hasaga Gold project. Vancouver-based First Mining Finance Corp, a mineral property holding company, reported in a news release that it had completed drilling programs at both its 26,600-hectare Springpole Gold Project (110 km northeast of  Town of  Red Lake) and

14,700-hectare Pickle Crow Project (400 km north of  Thunder Bay; 11 km east of  Township of  Pickle Lake). It expects assay results for both projects to be available in early 2017. The latter project is located on the site of  the famous Pickle Crow Gold Mine, once among North America’s highest-grade and longest-lived underground gold mines, which operated continuously from 1935 to 1966 and produced 1.4 million ounces of  gold and 168,757 ounces of  silver. First Mining also approved $21 million for exploration and development in 2017, including 47,000 metres of  infill and exploration drill programs. They include infill and resource expansion program at its Goldlund Gold Project (between Sioux Lookout and Dryden) plus infill drilling programs at both its 31,673-hectare advanced-stage Cameron Gold Project (80 km southeast of  Kenora) and the 4.41 million ounce Springpole Gold Project (East of Red Lake). Toronto-based junior miner Treasury Metals announced that initial results look promising from an infill drilling program at its 100%-owned Goliath Gold Project, 20 km east of  Dryden. The current multi-phase drilling program is aimed at increasing the underground gold resources in a Feasibility Study now underway for Goliath. The company is advancing the project toward open-pit production in late 2018, early 2019.

“Activity in the mining sector will be driven by the future path of metals prices. Little improvement in nickel, copper, zinc and lead prices is expected until 2017, while gold prices will be range-bound with a slight upward bias after next year.”  ­— Ontario Chamber of Commerce, Ontario Economic Update 2016, Northwest and Northeast Economic Region

32  Bear Country In-Flight Magazine

There’s also lots of  buzz these days around non-gold mining sector in Northern Ontario.

Treasury Metal’s Goliath Gold Project exploration site.

Thunder Bay-based Zenyatta Ventures Ltd. is continuing to evaluate its Albany Graphite Deposit in Northwestern Ontario near the communities of  Constance Lake First Nation and Hearst as well as the testing of  graphite and graphene in a variety of  applications, including concrete. The Albany deposit contains the world’s largest and only high-purity hydrothermal (volcanic in nature) graphite mineralization. (Graphene is a single sheet of pure graphite that is one atom thick, flexible, transparent, stronger than diamonds or steel, and is highly conducive.) Frontier Lithium has selected Nordmin Engineering Ltd of  Sudbury to prepare a Pre-Feasibility Study for the development of  its PAK Lithium Project located 175 km north of  Red Lake. The company believes the deposit can be developed into a world-class operation. Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  33

Chromite, a mineral used to induce hardness, toughness and chemical resistance in steel. The alloy produced is known as “stainless steel.”

Wondering what is happening in the Ring of Fire (ROF), the emerging huge mining area located in the James Bay Lowlands of  Northern Ontario? Good news is that Noront Resources continues to actively explore for more copper-nickel mineralization in the region. The

company now has the largest land position in the ROF  as well as ownership or a controlling interest in most of the major discoveries to date in the region. (KWG Resources Inc. controls chromite resources as well). To date, Noront has invested over a whopping $200 million in exploration, development, acquisition and community engagement. In a recent news release, Noront reported that it is working closely with the provincial government and First Nation communities to gain commitment on a shared use access road. The company is planning for the construction of  its first mine, the Eagle’s Nest, a copper-nickel deposit, in 2018 which it expects will be followed by the development of  its Blackbird chromite mine. To meet its internal deadlines, Noront said it requires construction of  the shared access road to begin in early 2018. The company expects to be in commercial production by 2020 at its 100%-owned Eagle’s Nest, the most advanced project in the ROF. Moving forward, what’s the 2017 outlook for mining activity in Northern Ontario? “Many early or grassroots exploration projects are trying to raise money in a slightly improved but still very tough market,” said Mason.

34  Bear Country In-Flight Magazine

Education Keeps Getting Better in Northern Ontario

By Elle Andra-Warner

Education has been defined as the process of  obtaining learning, the knowledge or training acquired, and how the knowledge, skills or training are delivered, for example, through a school, college or university. The development of  education goes back thousands of  years, when schools existed in ancient Egypt about 2000 years ago (Middle Kingdom era). The world’s first university was Nalanda University established 427 AD in eastern India, and destroyed in an attack in 1193. According to the Guinness World Book of  Records, the world’s oldest existing and continually operating educational institution is the University of  Karueein, founded in 859 AD in Fez, Morocco; the oldest one in Europe is the University of  Bologna, Italy founded in 1088. The oldest American university is Harvard University in Massachusetts established in 1636; oldest Canadian post-secondary institution is Université Laval established in 1663 in Quebec. Fast forward to 21st century in Northwestern Ontario, and the year 2017 is going to be a milestone year for Confederation College, as

it celebrates its 50th anniversary, starting with an official launch on January 1, 2017 and a Homecoming Weekend set for September 21-24. Since its founding in 1967, Confederation College has been at the forefront of  continuing to evolve and expand the tradition of  education to deliver programs and options. For example, in early November representatives of  Confederation College and Fort William First Nation signed a Memorandum of  Understanding (MOU) that specifically formalized “ongoing efforts to offer community-based education and training in a blended format delivered on the First Nation with programming and support from Confederation College.” Also in the fall, Lakehead University and New Gold Inc. signed an MOU to work together to identify potential opportunities for the two organizations, Lakehead’s students and Northwestern Ontario. In addition, the two organizations will explore potential research programs of  mutual interest and benefit, identify potential undergraduates and graduate students for educational on-site training, and

Signing of  the Lakehead University and New Gold Inc. Memorandum of  Understanding. (l-r) Dr. David Barnett – Lakehead University, Grant Goddard – New Gold Inc., Dr. Andrew Dean and Florence Bailey, Lakehead University.

identify opportunities for knowledge transfer between communities and the existing mining industry workforce, and other important benefits. Confederation College will receive $18 million for the construction of  its new Technology Education and Collaboration Hub (TEC Hub). The hub will include new workshop and lab space and will support the college’s engineering technology and manufacturing programs, as well as provide pathways for skilled training. The Oshki-Pimache-O-Win Education and Training Institute received $2.7 million in federal funding for its Pathways to Prosperous Future project. This project will enable the Institute through its Trades Training Mobile Lab, to provide specialized training for First Nations people in 49 communities across Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  35

the Nishnawbe Aski Nation. The funding will also be used to upgrade the trades labs at Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School in Thunder Bay. “This will allow us to deliver plumbing, mechanical and electrical training to Indigenous leaners, which will enable them to meet the needs of  communities that normally have to rely on fly-in tradespeople at huge expense. This will position Indigenous peoples for well-paying jobs,” said Rosie Mosquito, the executive director of  Oshki-Pimache-O-Win, which means “a new beginning.” Three educational institutions in Sault Ste Marie also received government funding totaling $23.5-million to support education infrastructure. Algoma University will be receiving a total $2.9 million to upgrade all mechanical and lighting systems in its main building; Sault College, $15.6 million to establish the Institute of  Environment, Education and Entrepreneurship (iE3); and Shingwauk Education Trust,

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1-807-766-7219 36  Bear Country In-Flight Magazine

$5 million to establish the Anishinabek Discovery Centre which will house the National Chiefs Library, the Training Centre of  Excellence, interpretive teaching and cultural spaces, and a state-of-the-art eent venue.

Nipissing University Students are choosing to study at Nipissing University because of  its friendly atmosphere and commitment to providing an exceptional student experience. Located in North Bay, Ontario, it is young and dynamic. The connections between the University and the communities it serves are vital. The people are representative of  almost every region in the province with some interprovincial and international students contributing to a collegial and diverse sense of  community. Nipissing enjoys its significant role in supporting northern communities, Aboriginal, and first generation learners. Recognized for being a leader in teacher education, Nipissing also delivers comprehensive undergraduate programs in the Arts, Sciences, Business, Criminal Justice and Nursing. Master-level programs are available in Education, Environmental Science/Environmental Studies, History, Kinesiology, Mathematics, and Sociology, as well as a PhD in Education. The University continues to develop innovative programs, support scholarship and create new knowledge through a growing research culture. With a student population of  almost 6,000, average class sizes of  28, and a student to faculty ratio of  23:1, students have access to supportive professors who get to know their names and are readily available for extra help outside of  classroom hours. Courses are delivered in a variety of  formats ranging from face-to-face lectures and seminars to online and blended learning models. Residences are consistently rated some of  the best in Ontario, so it’s no wonder students feel right at home the minute they step onto campus and take in the supreme beauty of  this natural learning environment.

Right: Dr. Justin Carré (Second from left), working with students in the lab, takes a social neuroscience approach to research by combining theory and methodology from social and experimental psychology, endocrinology, neuroscience, social cognition, pharmacology and molecular genetics, with the ultimate goal of  detailing the complex mechanisms that underlie variation in human competitive and aggressive behaviour. Below: A Native Child and Family Services student helps to perform a smudging ceremony with Indigenous children.

Confederation College

Right where I belong

Confederation College understands the importance of  engaging Indigenous learners in a meaningful way, integrating Indigenous cultures, history and heritage in our college-wide approach to education. This starts with a commitment to supporting and advancing the needs of  our learners through Indigenous-focused programming, initiatives and student services. There are three Indigenous programs offered at Confederation College which include two diploma programs: Aboriginal Community

“As a recent grad of the Social Welfare & Social Development program with a minor in Sociology, and now a Liaison and Development Co-ordinator in the Office of Aboriginal Initiatives at Nipissing, I know first-hand about the range of opportunities available to all students. I’ve also been witness to students who are following their dreams and have had tremendous academic, cultural and financial support in the Nipissing community. My job is so rewarding! ” Kerry Lynn, BA Social Welfare and Social Development graduate Hometown: Wiikwemikoong Unceded Territory

Academic, Personal and Cultural Support Enji Giigdoyang Student Lounge • Events and Speakers • Aboriginal Advantage Program •



See why you belong at Nipissing

ibelongatNipissingU.ca/bc

705-474-3450 ext. 4441 [email protected]

N O RT H

B AY,

O N TA R I O

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  37

Advocacy and Native Child & Family Services, as well as a certificate program: Aboriginal Canadian Relations. In addition, 95% of  our programs incorporate Indigenous learning outcomes into the curriculum. At Confederation, we know transitioning to college can sometimes be tough, especially for students moving from a remote community. No matter where our students come from, Negahneewin Student Support Services is here to assist students in their educational journeys.

Students are provided with guidance throughout their time at Confederation, getting help with everything from finding accommodations and assisting with funding, to academic advising and career counselling. Our Apiwin Lounge gives students a quiet and safe learning space to study and complete coursework, and students can look forward to participating in a wide variety of  culturally-based events and activities, all of  which create a welcoming environment.

Become an OSHKI student today OSHKI will bring full time accredited post secondary programs to you through our partnered colleges and innovative program delivery model. You can obtain a post secondary education certificate or diploma while studying in your home commuity. For more information or assistance contact:

DANIEL TAIT

Community Liaison & Student Recruitment Officer : (807) 626-1880 : 1-866-636-7454 : [email protected]

38  Bear Country In-Flight Magazine

Start A New Beginning

Register Online Now At:

www.oshki.ca

106 Centennial Square, 3rd Floor, Thunder Bay, ON P7E 1H3

Left: Loyalist College’s Aboriginal Resource Centre. Right: Students from Seven Generation’s Culinary program.

To learn more about Confederation College and how we’ve earned the title as a leader in Indigenous education, visit www.confederationcollege.ca/ neghaneewin-services.

Loyalist College The Aboriginal Resource Centre (ARC) at Loyalist College in Belleville maximizes opportunities for Indigenous students to realize their full academic and personal potential. The ARC offers access to academic and individual counselling services while providing a friendly space that, for some students, becomes a home away from home. Shane Kimball is a work study Aboriginal Student Mentor at the ARC. “We endeavour to make students feel welcome and part of  something,” said Shane. “Going to College is the first time many students find themselves away from home, an experience that can be difficult and stressful. The ARC provides a place for students who are away from their communities.” Shane, who grew up in Fort William First Nation, found his passion for building and construction at Loyalist, graduating from both the Aboriginal Construction Renovation and Construction Renovation

Culturally Enriched Quality Education

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Manidoo Baawaatig

1455 Idylwild Drive Fort Frances, ON

240 Veterans Drive Kenora, ON

807-274-2796

807-468-3096

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www.7generations.org Techniques programs. Currently, he is completing the Construction Engineering Technician diploma program and plans to work as a home inspector following graduation.   “I have been amazed by the opportunities that come from a college education. If  it wasn’t for the support and guidance of  the Aboriginal Resource Centre, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Seven Generations Education Institute Seven Generations Education Institute (SGEI) offers a variety of  programs and courses to help learners obtain the skills required for entry to college level and technical/ vocational programs as well as prepare learners for employment within the Hospitality, Mining, Construction, and Forestry sectors with customized training and programs. SGEI recently announced their new programs for 2017. At their Fort Frances Campus, they will be offering a 42-week handson skill diploma program to work in the construction industry; a 48-week personal service diploma program for graduates from the hairstyling program; and two-semester eightmonth Welding Techniques certificate program. At their Kenora Campus – Manidoo Baawaatig, SGEI’s new programs include a four-semester twoyear culinary diploma program; a foursemester two-year nursing program diploma course; and, three-semester aesthetic 45-week diploma program.

Put your dreams to

work today!

Confederation College offers a wide variety of events and programs that create a welcoming and engaging environment for Indigenous students.

dreamdo.ca T H U N D E R B AY & R E G I O N

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  39

Canada’s longest running Aboriginal business awards program – to celebrate Aboriginal business in northern Ontario, recognized six recipients for their achievements and contributions to local and regional economies in Timmins, on October 19, 2016 at the 26th Annual Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund Business Awards.

computer technician for District School Board Ontario North East for over four years. Having always been a fan of  Martial Arts, Kris began training in the Korean martial art of  Taekwondo achieving the rank of  deputy black belt in under four years. It was during this time, Kris was introduced to Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and his life instantly changed.

Since 1991, this non-profit event has been a fundraiser for the Dennis Franklin Cromarty Memorial Fund: a bursary fund for post-secondary students seeking academic achievement, and the NADF  Sponsorship Fund: a fund established by NADF  to respond to sponsorship and donation requests, and provide humanitarian assistance to aid in disaster and crisis relief.

Kris has travelled to the famed Gracie Academy in Torrance, California on several occasions to train with the Gracie Family. Having seen Kris’s passion and willingness to give back to his community, the family urged him to open the second Gracie Academy Certified Training Centre in Canada.

NADF  Executive Director, Brian Davey stated, “For the past 25 years, the NADF  Business Award is established as a showcase and celebration of  Aboriginal entrepreneurial achievement in Northern Ontario. This year, all the nominated candidates and award winners are the embodiment of  that entrepreneurial achievement.”

YOUTH ENTREPRENEUR Kris Ratte Timmins Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai Academy – Timmins Kris Ratte graduated from Cambrian College in the Software Engineering Technology program and worked in the IT field as a

40  Bear Country In-Flight Magazine

Five years later, boasting nearly 200 members and growing, Timmins Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai Academy is renowned for its ability to empower anyone, regardless of  age, gender or athletic ability and has expanded its program to include Muay Thai kickboxing, Yoga, and Fitness.

BUSINESSWOMAN OF THE YEAR Sandi Boucher Traditionally Speaking – Thunder Bay When Sandi Boucher started Traditionally Speaking in 2009, she was focused on empowerment for all but primarily the Indigenous peoples who had forgotten their value and worth in this modern era. She wanted to assist them to stand strong and to once again be proud of  who they are so Sandi wrote her first book honouring her Mother’s Anishnaabe teachings, designed her first seminar and began her journey. Since then, Sandi has fine-tuned her offerings to reflect the distinct needs of  the four target markets she now serves: Indigenous Women, Indigenous Youth, Indigenous communities as a whole and non-Indigenous allies. Her work can be categorized into two separate yet supportive streams – Indigenous Empowerment and Cross-Cultural Relations. Sandi has had the privilege of  speaking to audiences in elementary, secondary, and post-secondary institutions; at numerous conferences and gathers and even in penal institutions. Her work has given her the opportunity to converse with children and Chiefs across Canada and with individuals across the world. This summer, Sandi Boucher revamped Traditionally Speaking into the Traditionally Speaking. ca Indigenous Speakers Academy which offers one-on-one training to new Indigenous speakers.

PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR Melissa Hardy & Paul Giles Orgin – Thunder Bay

BUSINESSMAN OF THE YEAR Corey Wesley Corey Wesley Personal Training – Thunder Bay Upon graduating from his Master of  Science Degree in Kinesiology in 2012, Corey Wesley put his personal training business on hold to accept a contract at the local health unit. After feeling confined and restless from sitting at a desk, Corey decided to be his own boss and to empower others to be the best they could be through physical fitness and nutritional counseling. Combining his knowledge obtained in both of  his undergrad and Master’s Kinesiology degree with his athletics endeavours as a varsity track and field sprinter where Corey competed for five medals at the 2008 North American Indigenous Games; he felt he had experience to become a personal trainer. Corey Wesley has helped hundreds of  people meet their fitness goals and athletes who competed at the junior and major junior levels. In 2016, on top of  his personal training business Corey Wesley became the owner of  the Juice Monkey Events Trailer, where he travels to events and pow wows promoting healthy eating through his all natural fruit smoothies and superfood booster shots. As a health and fitness entrepreneur, Corey Wesley takes pride in offering services and products that changes the lives of  his clients and customers.

Melissa and Paul started Hardy Giles Consulting, a First Nations consulting and training company over six years ago, specializing in developing “outside the box” approaches and solutions for training, planning and other specialized projects. Together they have designed, implemented and management various types of  projects from strategic and business planning, fitness, recreational and multiple types of  training projects.

services. The company has an inventory of  operators from across Northwestern Ontario and are revolutionizing operator training and how operators find career positions.

After being in business for two years, they built on that experience and created Origin, a company that provides Heavy Equipment Operator Recruitment and Training

Both companies are grass root level and are focused on empowering people, enhancing their individual gifts and realizes their dreams through employment and business.

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Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  41

CORPORATION OF THE YEAR Michael Fox and Ron Basaraba CreeWest GP Inc. In 2004, a regional working group consisting of  community economic development officers from Attawapiskat, Fort Albany, Kashechewan, Moose Cree, and Weenusk First Nations, facilitated by Wakenagun Community Futures Development Corporation came up with the original concept for CreeWest. The group wanted to ensure that their First Nations were able to maximize the benefits arising from the development and operations of  the De Beers Canada Victor Diamond Mine, located approximately 90 kms west of  Attawapiskat. In 2013, CreeWest invested $1.3 million dollars into the purchase of  a Hanger Facility, Maintenance Operations and an Air Charter Service location in Sioux Lookout called Northern Skies Air Services (NSAS). CreeWest is eager to expand its operations to partner or aid in delivery of  first class deliverables to Northwestern Ontario communities as well as expanding operations to the Timmins and James Bay Coastal communities. CreeWest has seen steady growth in sales and revenue producing activity, and in 2015 ended with approximately $2.5 million in gross sales from just $630,000 in 2012. CreeWest has demonstrated its commitment to its owner communities through promoting and supporting First Nation postsecondary education, and has created the CreeWest Fist Nations Education Award. In addition to scholarship program, CreeWest provides regular donations to support community initiatives and sponsorships.

42  Bear Country In-Flight Magazine

NEW BUSINESS Jason Okimaw Okimaw Technology Consulting Jason Okimaw started working at the De Beers Victor project in 1999/2000 as a part of  their security team, where he was introduced to the world of  computers. Jason started reading about computers and taught himself  how to upgrade and work on the operating system. In 2006, he enrolled in the Computer System Technology program at Cambrian College in Sudbury, Ontario. He graduated in 2010 and started working for Ross Pope Inc. After gaining experience, he decided to work for himself  to provide a service to the communities around Northern Ontario that keeps their best interest in mind. Okimaw Technology Consulting is based out of  Jason’s hometown Attawapiskat First Nations. It offers a wide range of  services ranging from computer services, network security to email system setup and migrations. Currently the company services around the Timmins area up to James Bay Coast. In the first year of  business, Okimaw Technology Consulting generated approximately $225,000 in revenue. Jason has now started a Bursary for a PostSecondary student from the James Bay Coast to study in the IT field.

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  43

Red Lake

Winnipeg

Sioux Lookout

Kenora Dryden

Kapuskasing

Fort Frances Thunder Bay

Timmins

Sault Ste. Marie

Sudbury North Bay

DRYDEN January 21 Everything Fitz Band The Centre www.drydenentertainmentseries.ca March 27 Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra The Centre www.drydenentertainmentseries.ca April 4 Kahawi Dance Theatre – The Honouring The Centre www.drydenentertainmentseries.ca February 18 Winterfest Van Horne Landing and other venues www.drydenwinterfestival.com February 25 DMHA – IP Jamboree Dryden Memorial Arena March 13-19 Northern Bands Hockey Tournament Dryden Memorial Arena www.northernbandshockey tournament.com

FORT FRANCES (807) 274-5773 www.fortfranceschamber.com February 9 Fort Frances Chamber Business Awards La Place Rendez Vous March 22-25 Ontario Secondary School AAA Hockey Championships Fort Frances Sportsplex

April 13-16 North American First Nations Hockey Tournament Kenora Rec Centre www.nafnhockey.com

NORTH BAY

April 21-22 Fort Frances Chamber Trade Show Fort Frances Curling Club

January 11 Lee Ann Womack Capitol Centre www.capitolcentre.org

KAPUSKASING

February 18 The Tea Party Capitol Centre www.capitolcentre.org

February 24-26 Kapuskasing Winter Carnival www.kapuskasing.ca

KENORA www.kenora.ca January 24 Everything Fitz-Band LOWC/Know United Church www.lowc.ca March 3-5 Kenora Winter Carnival www.kenorawintercarnival.ca

44  Bear Country In-Flight Magazine

April 9 Kenora District Festival of Arts Know United Church www.kdfa.ca

February 26 North Bay Symphony Orchestra – Storyteller Capitol Centre www.capitolcentre.org

RED LAKE www.redlake.ca January 19 Everything Fitz Band Red Lake District High School www.redlakewes.com

February 18-20 Red Lake Winter Carnival

SAULT STE. MARIE February 3-12 Bon Soo Winter Carnival Various venues www.bonsoo.on.ca February 27 – March 5 Shadows of the Mind Film Festival www.shadowsfilmfest.com

SIOUX LOOKOUT January 13-15 6th Annual Skip to Equip Curling Classic Sioux Lookout Golf & Curling Club [email protected] February 12-19 Little Bands Native Youth Hockey Tournament Sioux Lookout Memorial and Lac Seul Arenas Stephen Fiddler, (807) 738-3167 [email protected] February 18 Winter Market Sunset Inn, (807) 737-1937 www.siouxlookout.com

SUDBURY January 7 Gerry Dee Live Sudbury Arena, (705) 671-3000

January 29 Back to the Future Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra Grassroots Church www.tbso.ca

January 13 Brett Kissel Laurentian University www.eventful.com/sudbury/events

January 30 – February 11 Crees in the Caribbean Magnus Theatre www.magnus.on.ca

January 22 Tim Hicks Sudbury Arena www.purchase.tickets.com

January 31 Marianas Trench Thunder Bay Community Auditorium www.tbca.com

April 7-9 Sudbury Sportsman Show Garson Community Centre

February 3-5 Bearskin Airlines Hope Classic Fort William Curling Club www.bearskinairlineshopeclassic.com

THUNDER BAY

February 18-20 Voyageur Winter Carnival Fort William Historical Park www.fwph.ca

January 11 Blue Rodeo 1000 Arms Tour Thunder Bay Community Auditorium www.tbca.com January 17 Chad Brownlee Thunder Bay Community Auditorium www.tbca.com January 28 Yuk Yuks Comedy Thunder Bay Community Auditorium www.tbca.com

March 4 2017 Sleeping Giant Loppet Sleeping Giant Provincial Park www.sleepinggiantloppet.ca March 6-18 Of Human Bondage Magnus Theatre www.magnus.on.ca

Mr. Bon Soo will be on hand to welcome you to Sault Ste Marie’s Winter Carnival, February 3-12, 2017.

Bear Country In-Flight Magazine  45

TIMMINS

January 16 Tim Hicks & Chad Brownlee Club Regent Event Centre www.casinosofwinnipeg.com

February 17-26 Festival Du Voyageur Whittier Park www.festivalvoyageur.mb.ca

January 25-29 Big Fun Music Festival 2017 Various venues www.bigfunfestival.com

March 2-5 Mid Canada Boat Show RBC Convention Centre Winnipeg www.midcanadaboatshow.com

WINNIPEG

January 28-29 Monster Jam MTS Centre www.ticketmaster.ca

March 7 Eric Church MTS Centre www.ticketmaster.ca

January 4 Melissa Etheridge Burton Cummings Theatre www.ticketmaster.ca

January 31 Sam Roberts Band Burton Cummings Theatre www.ticketmaster.ca

January 14 Blue Rodeo MTS Centre www.ticketmaster.ca

February 1 Dierks Bentley MTS Centre www.ticketmaster.ca

March 10-13 Winnipeg RV Show and Sale and Winnipeg Golf Expo RBC Convention Centre Winnipeg www.manitobarvshow.com www.winnipeg.golfexpos.ca

January 27 Jack de Keyzer Live McIntyre Arena February 25 Timmins Symphony Orchestra A Night at the Movies St. Anthony’s Cathedral www.timminssymphony.com

March 13 Tom Cochrane with Red Rider and Meghan Patrick Club Regent Event Centre www.casinosofwinnipeg.com March 25-31 Festival of Fools The Forks www.kidfest.ca March 31 – April 2 Dirty Dancing Centennial Concert Hall www.ticketmaster.ca

(NC) Enjoy a relaxing and connected vacation this winter by safely travelling with your favourite devices. If you consider them to be essential travel items, these tips will make security screening easier for your next flight.

1 Keep your electronic boarding pass at the ready. One

of the first things you need to do at the checkpoint is present your boarding pass. If it’s on your smartphone, make sure to keep it handy and powered up.

2 Leave small electronics in your baggage. To save time

and headaches, leave small electronic devices like tablets, eBooks, cameras, and handheld video games in their cases or in your carry-on baggage for screening and then simply place the case or baggage in the bin.

3 Place large electronics separately in a bin. If you

travel with large electronic items like laptops, DVD players, netbooks, notebooks, or game consoles, you need to remove them from your carry-on baggage and place them in a separate bin. Make sure there are no other items on top or underneath.

46  Bear Country In-Flight Magazine

4 Download CATSA’s app. The Canadian Air Transport

Security Authority’s mobile app will provide you with wait times and other information that will make it easier to get through security. Find more information by following them on social media @catsa.gc.ca.

www.newscanada.com

GENERATING POWER WITH PURPOSE The Peter Sutherland Sr. Generating Station is a partnership between Ontario Power Generation and Coral Rapids Power LP, a subsidiary of the Taykwa Tagamou Nation. This $300M project, located 90 km north of Smooth Rock Falls, is expected to train and employ 220 workers at peak. Named in honour of the late community Elder, the new station – once completed in 2018 – will produce 28 more megawatts of clean, renewable electricity for Ontario. This innovative hydroelectric partnership with an Indigenous community is the fourth for OPG. Because we believe in generating power with purpose.

WE DO MORE THAN OPERATE GOLD MINES Our mines create social and economic benefits in the communities where we live and work. Thousands of jobs, local purchasing, responsible operations, and programs help create healthy, vibrant and engaged communities.

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