Centre for Health Care Ethics Presents

"Do The Sick Need To Be Cared For With More Compassion?"
(Thunder Bay - September 16, 2005) What is compassion? Why should clinicians feel compassion for patients? Can health care professionals be motivated to feel compassion and act accordingly? These are some of the questions that will be explored at the Bioethics Encounters session, "Role of Compassion in the Practice of Medicine and Nursing," presented by Lakehead University's Centre for Health Care Ethics (CHCE).
Who: Lakehead University's Centre for Health Care Ethics
What: Bioethics Encounters session
Role of Compassion in the Practice of Medicine and Nursing
Where: St. Joseph's Hospital
When: Wednesday, September 21 at 7:30 p.m.
The keynote speaker will be philosopher and ethicist, Brendan Leier, PhD, from the John Dossetor Health Ethics Centre of the University of Alberta. For the past few years, Dr. Leier has been studying the issues of compassion in the health care system, and he is writing a book on the subject.
Responding to his presentation will be Harriet Laudadio, Executive Director of the Thunder Bay and District Victorian Order of Nurses, and Dr. Kathy Simpson of the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. The facilitator of the session is David Shannon, lawyer and advocate for the rights of people with disabilities. After initial remarks from the panel members, the forum will be open to anyone from the audience.
"This session is not only for health care workers, University staff and students, but also for patients and their families as well as the general public," says Dr. Jaro Kotalik, Director of CHCE. "It is an opportunity for those who have benefited from compassionate care and those who have experienced a hurtful lack of compassion to share their stories."
This session is the first in a series of presentations organized by CHCE, which will run monthly from September 2005 to June 2006. Every evening will be devoted to a different topic dealing with pressing and often controversial issues that are emerging in health care delivery. There will be opportunities to discuss ethical decision making in the intensive care unit, in term care, and in the care of the Aboriginal population. Other sessions will explore various religious perspectives on health care ethics, the ethics of prescribing or denying the prescription of drugs, and the ethics of creating waiting lists for medical intervention. Most sessions will be designed to share local experiences and will feature local experts, but speakers will also come from the University of Toronto and McMaster University.
There is no admission fee to these sessions and free parking is available behind the dental offices of Dr. Bloom across the street. The session will also be available as a real time video conference in all Ontario health care institutions that are associated with the NORTH Network. Those interested in participating should contact the NORTH Network coordinator in their local hospital. For more information about this session or about membership in the Centre for Health Care Ethics, call (807) 343 8126 or send an e-mail to chce@lakeheadu.ca.
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Contact: Marla Tomlinson, Office of Communications, 807-343-8177 or 807-472-9113.

Research Project Looks at Improving Quality of Life for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis

Lakehead U student looking for participants in 10-week yoga program
(Thunder Bay - September 16, 2005) A Lakehead University Kinesiology student is looking for research participants in a 10-week yoga research program for people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
As part of her Master's research project, Jaime Kirstein will be determining if yoga affects balance, spasticity, mobility, and quality of life for people with MS. People who participate will need to make a twice-weekly commitment of a one-hour yoga session.
"Before coming to Lakehead U, I worked in physical rehabilitation with various groups of people including those with MS. I was so inspired by the people I worked with that I decided to do my Master's project focusing on MS and physical rehabilitation," Kirstein says. "In researching the needs of this group, it seemed that balance and mobility problems were common. There is some research out there that suggests that yoga is popular in the MS community, but other than reducing fatigue and improving mood, the physical effects of yoga are largely undocumented."
Research in gerontology and aging has shown some success in improving balance and mobility through Tai Chi, Kirstein adds.
"The movements in Tai Chi are somewhat similar to what happens in yoga - slow controlled movements of the body's centre of gravity over the feet. The moving around of the centre of gravity is what is thought to affect balance and mobility. Because of this relationship and the group structure of yoga, it seems that research in yoga for this group is important."
Kirstein is looking for participants who have been diagnosed with MS and have problems with balance and/or mobility, but who are able to walk six metres twice in a short period of time, independently or using a walker/cane, and lean as far as possible for a period of 20 seconds without help. The program is expected to begin in October and last until mid-December. Kirstein's Master's project is being supervised by Dr. Jane Taylor, a faculty member of Lakehead U's School of Kinesiology.
Interested participants should contact Kirstein jkirstei@lakeheadu.ca, or Dr. Taylor at jane.taylor@lakeheadu.ca. There will be an information session on September 20 at 7 p.m. in SB-1028 in the CJ Sanders Fieldhouse at Lakehead U.
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Contact: Marla Tomlinson, Office of Communications, 807-343-8177 or 807-472-9113.

Canada’s Newest Medical School Opens its Doors

(Thunder Bay - Sept. 13, 2005) Canada's first new Medical School in a generation was opened today in high-tech fashion by Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty following a telemedicine roll call to more than 10 far-flung communities that will be involved with the new School.
The Ontario Premier declared the Northern Ontario School of Medicine officially open after establishing two-way video conference links to a series of cities, towns and villages across Northern Ontario.
The first Medical School in Canada to open its doors in the Internet Age, it is also the country's first twin site Medical School, with a West Campus located at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, and an East Campus hosted by Sudbury's Laurentian University.
The Grand Opening this morning was a two campus videoconference, with Premier McGuinty and His Excellency John Ralston Saul among the distinguished guests at Laurentian University, while Aboriginal leader Elijah Harper and Ontario Minister of Health George Smitherman were among the featured speakers at Lakehead. Ontario Lieutenant Governor James Bartleman and Canada's Commissioner of Official Languages Dr. Dyane Adam joined the proceedings by videolink from Toronto and Ottawa, respectively.
With a special emphasis on rural and remote medicine, NOSM will pioneer the marriage of technology, education, research, and health care delivery, promised Founding Dean Dr. Roger Strasser. The School is based on the premise that medical students tend to practice where they have studied, and NOSM graduates will contribute to reducing the critical shortage of physicians in Northern Ontario.
"Since beginning our work on this project three years ago, the staff of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine has promised to create 'A Medical School like no other,'" Dr. Strasser noted. "We want to reaffirm that promise to the people of Ontario, and to you students of the Charter Class, here today."
The School's first 56 undergraduate class members arrived on their respective campuses ten days ago, and have already begun their studies which will be undertaken in a wide variety of community and health science settings across Northern Ontario.

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Everyone Invited to Lakehead U’s 40th Anniversary Celebration Weekend

Registration Deadline For All Events: September 23
(Thunder Bay - September 12, 2005) The entire Thunder Bay community is invited to take part in Lakehead University's 40th Anniversary Celebration Weekend this Sept. 29 to Oct. 2. This celebration, while bringing alumni together from around the world, also welcomes the community to campus.
"We're very excited about this Celebration Weekend, and we hope to see everyone come out to the events," says Heather Ives, Alumni Officer and 40th Anniversary Co-ordinator. "There truly is something for everyone -- whether it's taking part in some of our free events like the campfire, canoe rides, and campus tours, or joining in some of the larger main events like the 40th Anniversary Celebration Dinner & Dance: World on a Plate. Everyone is welcome."
Ives reminds everyone interested in joining in the festivities that they must register by Sept. 23 - even for the free events. This is to ensure there is adequate staff on site for the number of people coming on campus. People can register online at www.lakeheadualumni.ca/40years/ or they can call Ives at 346-7784.
One of the main events is the World on a Plate ~ 40th Anniversary Celebration Dinner & Dance on October 1 in the Main Cafeteria.
"Lakehead graduates live and work all over the world and at this dinner and dance we invite the world to our doorstep," Ives says. "This buffet of delectable ethnic foods will tempt your
taste buds, while 21 Gun Fun featuring Danny Johnson will have you dancing into the night."
There are over 30 events, ranging from dinners to reunions to tours. A full list of events is available online. Highlights include:
Thursday, September 29
Alumni Golf Day - Cost differs per course
Career Day/Virtual Fair - Free
Lakehead Celebrates... 40 Years Dinner - $140
Campfire - Free (bring your own mug for hot chocolate)
Friday, September 30
Opening Ceremonies - Free
Kick-Off BBQ - $10 ($5 for children)
Faculty, Department, Student Club, & Research Displays - Free
Pub Night - $5 (must be over 19)
Saturday, October 1
Family Breakfast - $10 ($5 for children)
Alumni Association Information Session - Free
ATAC Open House/Tours - Free
Campus Tour - Free
Athletics Wall of Fame Induction - Free
Voyageur Canoe Rides - Free
Geocaching- Free
Zanatta Games - $6 for adults, $4 for seniors, students, and children
40th Anniversary Celebration Dinner & Dance: World on a Plate - $40 Adult, $20 Children
Sunday, October 2
Ecumenical Service - Free
Farewell Brunch - $15, ($10 for Children)
Members of the Media: Heather Ives is available for interview by calling Marla Tomlinson at 343-8177. Media is invited to attend the events. Please contact Marla for locations and times. An invitation to the Opening Ceremonies will be sent closer to the date.
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ContactBookmark: agenda: Marla Tomlinson, Communications Officer, Lakehead University, 343-8177 or 472-9113

Lakehead U 40th Celebration Raffle Gives Away More Than $30,000 in Prizes

(Thunder Bay - September 7, 2005) Lakehead University wants you to win a car! And the 40th Celebration Raffle is your chance.
As part of the 40th Anniversary celebrations, Lakehead U is holding a raffle -- with a grand prize of a 2006 Hyundai Sonata GL, worth $28,900 donated by Marostica Motors. Proceeds from the raffle will go toward Lakehead U student bursaries.
"This raffle is an exciting way to help Lakehead University students," says Bonnie Moore, Director of Development at Lakehead. "There are great prizes to be won and many chances to win. The students also win, as bursaries offer much-needed funding to students who work hard, but may be facing financial challenges."
There are many great prizes to be won:
  • Second prize is a $2500 tuition voucher for Lakehead U.
  • Third prize is a $1500 tuition voucher for Lakehead U.
  • Fourth prize is a $500 voucher for the Lakehead U Bookstore.
There are also great early bird draws, so get your tickets soon. Any member of the community can purchase tickets. The cost is $20, and there are only 5,000 available. Tickets will be on sale until February 28, 2006, or until they sell out. The draw will be held on March 1, 2006, at 2 p.m.
A full list of prizes is located online - visit www.lakeheadu.ca and click on the raffle link. Tickets available at: Marostica Motors - 1142 Alloy Drive, and at Lakehead U in the Alumni Bookstore, the Intersection, and Office of Alumni Relations, or call the Office of Development at 343-8421.
Members of the Media: Bonnie Moore is available for interview by calling Marla Tomlinson at
343-8177.
Lakehead University is located in Thunder Bay, Ontario, on the shores of Lake Superior. It is a comprehensive university with a worldwide reputation for innovative programs and research. With over 7,400 students and 1,600 faculty and staff, Lakehead University is home to the west campus of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and is developing a satellite campus in Orillia, Ontario, planned to open in September 2006. For more information on Lakehead University, visit www.lakeheadu.ca.
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Contact: Marla Tomlinson, Communications Officer, 807-343-8177 or 807-472-9113

Lakehead U Receives FedNor Support for Research and Technology Initiatives

(Thunder Bay - September 8, 2005) The Honourable Joe Comuzzi, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay-Superior North, and Ken Boshcoff, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay-Rainy River, today announced FedNor support totalling $429,655 to Lakehead University for four projects involving research and technology (project list below).

Of the total, $150,000 will assist with planning and design costs for a new research building, $141,000 will support research into the electrolytic production of metals, $111,155 will assist the purchase of special equipment to enhance Lakehead's toxicology testing services, and $27,500 will help employ a Youth Intern for a new Materials Science and Biotechnology research centre.

"The Government of Canada is dedicated to investing in institutions such as Lakehead University, since they play a leading role in developing and commercializing innovative technologies that contribute to the economic diversification of the region," said Mr. Comuzzi.

"This support allows Lakehead University to enhance its research capabilities on several fronts, helping it move toward the goal of becoming one of the top 25 research universities in Canada," said Mr. Boshcoff.
A new multi-tenant research building is considered essential to attract new faculty to Lakehead, help commercialize research at the university and add another asset to the university's innovation cluster. The research program developing new materials for electrodes used in the production of metals, such as nickel, copper and gold, aims to create patented products that could assist Northern Ontario mining and smelting operations to remain globally competitive. The special equipment purchase will strengthen Lakehead's leading role in testing toxicity levels in water and further its innovative research in aquatic toxicology.

"We are excited by the potential of these initiatives to help us continue to develop a critical mass of research capabilities that are both useful to regional industry and likely to create new, commercially valuable products and processes as well as long-term employment," said Dr. Fred Gilbert, President of Lakehead University.

By supporting Lakehead University through its programs and services, FedNor is opening doors and building futures for a prosperous Northern Ontario.
Funding for this initiative was provided for in the February 2005 federal budget and is therefore built into the existing fiscal framework.

Research building design and planning costs
$150,000
This project supports the cost of an integrated project team to design, plan and manage a new 150,000 square foot (13,935 square metre) multi-tenant research building. The team will find other funding, private sector tenants, and manage the project through construction to its opening and initial operation. The establishment of leading-edge research facilities is critical to attracting new faculty, and will hopefully lead to increased commercialization of university research. Following the creation of the Northwestern Ontario Technology Centre, the ATAC building and the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (West Campus), the research facility will be the fourth
major FedNor-assisted step toward creating an innovation cluster at Lakehead University

Research into energy-efficient metal production electrodes
$141,000
This project will contribute to a three-year research program involving the development of energy-efficient materials for electrodes used in the electrolytic production of metals, such as nickel, copper and gold. Researchers will collaborate with the Lakehead Intellectual Property Management Office to patent the developed test methodology and any novel electrode material(s). Such new products would assist many Northern Ontario and Canadian mining and smelting operations to remain globally competitive, and the research program would become a key regional resource for the mining industry.

Enhance Lakehead's toxicology testing service
$111,155
This project will fund special equipment that will strengthen Lakehead's leading role in testing toxicity levels in water and further its innovative research in aquatic toxicology. The new equipment and testing capabilities will add to recent research innovations at Lakehead's Aquatic Toxicology Research Centre (ATRC), including the Toxicology Identification Evaluation (TIE) and a Toxicology Early Warning (TEW) system. The TEW system, which bioassays effluent on a continuous flow basis, is undergoing pilot phase testing as a portable unit this year.

Youth Intern to develop Materials Science & Biotech Research Centre
$27,500
This project requires a Youth Intern who will assist the development of a new Interdisciplinary Research Centre in Materials Science and Biotechnology. Tasks include: helping develop a proposal for the Research Centre; preparing and maintaining an Internet website for the Centre; preparing promotional material; preserving contacts with interested university faculty, and soliciting and maintaining contacts with representatives of industry, government and community groups.

To find out more about FedNor, visit us at: http://fednor.ic.gc.ca

Lakehead U Invites Thunder Bay Community to “40 Years” Dinner

Musicians Paul Shaffer, Lew Soloff, and Tom "Bones" Malone, add flair to University's 40th Anniversary Celebration
(Thunder Bay - Sept. 1, 2005) The community of Thunder Bay is invited to dinner at Lakehead University.
The "Lakehead University Celebrates... 40 Years" Dinner will take place on Thursday, September 29, starting at 6:30 p.m. in The Hangar. To add excitement to the evening, Paul Shaffer, Musical Director of The Late Show with David Letterman, will be entertaining the crowd, joined by fellow musicians Lew Soloff, former member of Blood, Sweat, and Tears, and Tom "Bones" Malone, multi-instrumentalist star of the "Blues Brothers" movie and also of The Late Show with David Letterman.
"The successes and achievements of the University are made possible by community partnerships at all levels," says Jackie Dojack, Chair, Lakehead U Board of Governors. "We invite everyone to join us in a night of celebration to mark the University's 40th Anniversary and to honour the collaborations that make our achievements possible."
"We are pleased to have Mr. Shaffer come back to his hometown to celebrate the University's 40th birthday with us, and we invite the community to join in what promises to be an entertaining annual event," says Dr. Fred Gilbert, University President. "People will be able to make connections, see old friends, and participate in a wonderful evening of food, music, and entertainment."
Lakehead University's Dinner starts at 6:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception. Dinner will be served at 7:30 p.m., and Mr. Shaffer and his fellow musicians will wow the crowd beginning at 9:30 p.m.
Tickets to the BBQ dinner are $140 each, and proceeds will go to support ongoing initiatives at the University. A tax receipt will be issued for a portion of the ticket price. To order tickets or for more information, contact Deb McKever at 343-8300.
Members of the Media may contact Jackie Dojack or Dr. Fred Gilbert by calling Marla Tomlinson at 343-8177.
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Contact: Marla Tomlinson, Office of Communications, 807-343-8177 or 807-472-9113.

Lakehead U Orientation 2005: “Set Sail”

New students to take part in Orientation 2005 from Sept. 2 to 7
(Thunder Bay - Aug. 31, 2005) It's that time of year again -- the time when students and faculty alike are gearing up for the new academic year. Starting on Friday, September 2, Lakehead University will come alive again with youthful energy as students check out the campus and move into residence.
Orientation is an exciting, informative, action-packed week of activities welcoming new students to Lakehead and getting them ready for university. All new students -- from Thunder Bay or from afar -- are expected to participate in Orientation activities. It's a vital first step in getting students off on the right foot in their university education. Plus, in addition to learning lots and having tons of fun, it's the best way to meet new people and get to know the Lakehead campus.
This year's Orientation theme is "Set Sail." Lakehead U's new students are embarking on a journey - a new course in life - and the University community is ready to greet them with a week's worth of great events.
Schedule Highlights:
(Please call Marla at 343-8177 for locations)
Friday, Sept. 2
All Day Residence Move-in Day
Saturday, Sept. 3
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Family & Friends Welcome Session
An information session for parents, family, and friends of students new to Lakehead.
12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Campus Tours
12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Community Market Place
An opportunity for students to visit with local vendors to learn more about the services/products offered in Thunder Bay. This is also a time to learn more about the various departments on campus.
Sunday, Sept. 4
12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Residence Mini Olympics - Great photo op.
This event puts Residence students in the middle of intense house-on-house competition, working through a series of fun challenges.
Tuesday, Sept. 6
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. SOS (Success of Students)
An interactive look at the things students might need to be successful at Lakehead University. Students can drop by and play some games and win some prizes while learning about Lakehead U services.
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Community Marketplace continues upstairs in the Outpost
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. LUSU Open House
This open house is available to you to provide a casual information session with representatives from each centre available to answer any questions you may have.
12 p.m. President's BBQ - Great Photo Op
A chance for Lakehead U's new students to meet the President as he cooks them up some lunch.
2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Orientation Information Sessions
Session information below
4:30 p.m. Mature Student Welcome
Aboriginal Cultural & Support Services Open House
Continuing Education & Distance Learning Open House
6:30 p.m. Orientation Session for mature, part-time, transfer and Native
Access (NAP) students.
Wednesday, Sept. 7
2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Orientation Information Sessions
(Call Marla at 343-8177 for locations)
Sessions are:
Job Trek
Job Trek will help orient students to the employment services available on campus.
Lakehead 101
A must-attend overview of the University's history, what students can expect, faculty expectations, student support, and culture and traditions in the region.
Smart Start
Lakehead U's new students from a student who has been there! They will learn the basics that will help them get off to a smart start in first year at Lakehead.
What's Up at Lakehead's Campus Rec?
For students who want to stay active and get involved. Campus Recreation, a division of the Athletics Department, offers all students the opportunity to get involved with non-varsity sports at Lakehead.
3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Closing Ceremonies
The wrap-up of Orientation 2005. Staff and Faculty will be in attendance in graduate dress, and the students are welcomed officially to the University. Orientation prizes will be distributed at this event.
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Contact: Marla Tomlinson, Office of Communications, 807-343-8177 or 807-472-9113

Lakehead U Offers Unique Opportunity to Non-traditional students

(Thunder Bay - August 29, 2005) Lakehead University's Faculty of Education has developed a unique opportunity for non-traditional students in Thunder Bay.

A new program called Humanities 101: A Lakehead University Community Initiative is being offered as a non-credit Lakehead U course to people who may not otherwise have the chance to attend post-secondary education. The first of it's kind in Ontario, this multidisciplinary course involves faculty members from around the university, and will cover issues related to Social Work, Aboriginal Studies, Political Science, Women's Studies, Anthropology, English, Music, and Philosophy.

"The course is similar to an introductory first-year university course, and includes the opportunity for students to discuss course topics during class time with the goal of generating an interactive learning experience for all participants," says Dr. Christina van Barneveld, an Assistant Professor with the Faculty of Education who is spearheading this initiative at Lakehead U. "It is designed to introduce students to the excitement and interest that accompanies the discovery and creation of knowledge. The program aims to acquaint students with the benefits that may come from higher education experiences, and provide assistance to overcoming barriers to higher-level education experiences."

Dr. van Barneveld adds that in order to reduce some of the barriers to attending class, students will be supported with a transportation allowance, childcare allowance, school supplies, and a small meal before class.

A Community Approach
A network of 15 governmental and non-governmental organizations were brought together to collaborate with Lakehead U in developing and implementing Humanities 101.

"This community-driven approach to program development helps create new relationships between Lakehead U, its Faculties, and the community, and builds a network that continues to grow," says Dr. van Barneveld. "This network has ongoing involvement through the in-kind support of the students of Humanities 101, as part of a 'circle of support' around each student or in program advisory roles," says Dr. van Barneveld.

Students participating in this initiative are identified through the network of community service agencies. The community service providers recommend individuals who they feel are ready to take a step towards this educational opportunity. Individuals are 17 years or older, able to read a newspaper, and enjoy discussing social and cultural issues in a friendly and supportive academic context.

"Our University is enriched by the presence of these new students," says Dr. Julia O'Sullivan, Lakehead U's Dean of Education. "Lakehead, like the other great universities, reflects, respects, and responds to the community in which it exists."

Members of the Media are welcome to interview Dr. van Barneveld by calling Marla Tomlinson at 343-8177.

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Contact: Marla Tomlinson, Communications Officer, Lakehead University, 343-8177 or 472-9113

Partnership to Identify IT Economic Opportunities

New information and communications technology and innovation study
(August 11, 2005 - Thunder Bay, Ontario) Representatives from three levels of government as well as the public and private sectors of Northwestern Ontario have come together to study current information and communications technology challenges and opportunities.
The study, which is the first of its kind involving all levels of government and the public and private sectors, is being carried out because the partners believe that sharing human and capital resources will greatly improve the individual and collective ability to advance technology solutions in this region.
The study will examine partnership opportunities that will benefit local residents and businesses while expanding the quality and availability of broader public services, and stimulating economic diversity and growth.
This initiative is expected to improve service delivery in Northwestern Ontario. It will allow the over-extended operations of the partners to share resources and expand capabilities to meet current and future needs.
An increase in ICT infrastructure and capabilities is expected to create new jobs and stimulate economic development through increased opportunities particularly in the areas of research, education, and medical services. In addition to providing new opportunities for knowledge-based workers with leading-edge skills, existing ICT jobs will be enriched by increasing the scope of services being provided and creating new ICT employment opportunities.
Among the local partners are the City of Thunder Bay, Lakehead University, Confederation College, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Lakehead Public School Board, Lakehead Catholic School Board, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, Thunder Bay Airport, and St. Joseph's Care Group. The initiative has the full support of the federal and provincial governments.
Dr. Frederick Gilbert, President, Lakehead University, says: "Collaboration has historically taken place among various sectors in the Northwestern region, but a partnership of this magnitude in communications technology may be the catalyst our region needs to accelerate the transformation of our economy."
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Media - The following are available for interview and may be contacted directly:
Dr. Frederick Gilbert, Co-Chair, Steering Committee - 807-343-8200
Mr. Robert Petrie, Chief Administrative Officer, City of Thunder Bay, 807-625-2224

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