MARINE ATLANTIC EMPLOYEE NEWSLETTER | SEPTEMBER 2015

SAFETY BACK TO SCHOOL // PAGE 2

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH MYHEALTH IS HERE // PAGE 6

Working with employees, our Occupational Health Nurses will focus on the promotion, maintenance and restoration of health as well as the prevention of illness and injury in our workplace.

Occupational Health Nurses Karen Devoe (left) and Jacqueline Munden (right) // 2 HEALTH, SAFETY & ENVIRONMENT

MAKE SAFETY A HABIT

GREEN MARINE MAKES A DIFFERENCE BACK TO SCHOOL The Green Marine Program has grown dramatically since its inception in 2008. SAFETY There are now over 90 participating Marine-based organizations. As school doors open, traffic gets a little heavier on our streets. People are back from holidays, school buses and public transit Marine Atlantic’s membership in Green Marine are on regular routes, and more people are walking, cycling or has continued to build our relationships with driving to school. Help everyone stay safe this school year with the companies such as Algoma Central Corporation, following tips! Atlantic Towing Limited (Irving), Washington State Ferries, BC Ferries and Montreal Gateway Terminals. 1) Observe School Zone Speeds Although you should always obey posted speed limits, it is Not only do these relationships enhance our especially important during the school year. Children crossing the profile, they expand our knowledge, including road on their way to and from school can easily get distracted and how to avoid some of the common pitfalls our step into harm's way. Slowing down and being vigilant is crucial peers have experienced. to keeping kids safe. Children are often out throughout the day at recess, lunch, and for certain classes, so it's important to drive slowly throughout the day. We are pleased that our employees are very accepting of this initiative. Cooperation among 2) Obey the Crossing Guard employees has been significant and vital to its Some areas may have a crossing guard in place to keep children success. In fact, there seems to be a genuine safe. If you approach an intersection as the light turns green, interest among staff to do their part to protect the crossing guard may still indicate for you to STOP. Follow the and promote a healthy environment. crossing guard's direction – there might be a child still crossing the street that you can't see. We have learned that most companies who join Green Marine sign on as either ship owners or 3) Watch for Darting Children terminals. We are proud to share that Marine Atlantic Kids are small and easily distracted, and for drivers, this can create is unique by committing to all of our properties, dangerous situations on the roads. Be vigilant and alert behind the wheel – never text and drive! You never know when a small child including four ships and three terminals. might step out from between parked cars or off a sidewalk. Your fast reflexes might be needed to prevent an accident. We are particularly delighted that we received certification for our ships and terminals in less 4) School Buses than one year. Most mishaps take place outside the bus. Make sure children don't arrive too early at the bus stop where they can wander or get into Green Marine is an excellent example of an industry mischief. Make sure children wait well away from the road and commitment to sustainable environmental leadership stay back until the school bus makes a full stop and the doors and continuous improvement, year over year. We are open. Explain that they must walk at least three meters (10 feet) proud to do our part. away when crossing in front of the bus so the driver can see them. When driving your car near a school bus please note that extra caution is needed. To learn more about Green Marine and/or the You should never pass a school bus when the signal lights are flashing (as children are often crossing the road at certification process, visit www.green-marine.org. that time), and drive slowly as a general precaution. Green Marine Makes Us Greener! http://www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/rsrcs/sfttps/tp201009-en.aspx

Strait Talk // September 2015 HEALTH, SAFETY & ENVIRONMENT // 3

BACK TO SCHOOL NUTRITION TIPS

As we prepare to send our kids back to school for the busy BERRY BANANA SMOOTHIE month of September, we must remember that the menu we serve fuels their active minds and bodies. As hard as it may be 2 cups frozen mixed berries for some children to crawl out of bed in the morning, a powerful 1 cup strawberry yogurt mind starts with a nutritious breakfast! Keep these back-to- 1 banana, sliced school basics in mind to help your kids achieve their best in 1 cup of milk the school year ahead! ½ teaspoon of sugar (optional)

HEALTHY BREAKFAST BLEND and ENJOY! Makes about 4 servings. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. By the time a child awakens for school, he/she most likely has gone ten hours Health Canada or more without anything to eat. Eating a healthy breakfast www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index-eng.php provides children with energy to start their day and essential nutrients for healthy growth and development. Eating a healthy breakfast is associated with improved memory, better test scores, attendance and overall improved behavior. Skipping breakfast often leads to trouble concentrating and tiredness.

A balanced breakfast includes food from at least three of the four food groups. Some quick and easy ideas are listed here. Check out Canada’s food guide for more suggestions.

Veggies and Fruits ••bananas, frozen blueberries, cucumber, canned fruit Grain Products whole grain cereals, whole wheat tortillas, oatmeal, ••whole wheat toast Milk and alternatives ••yogurt, smoothies, cottage cheese Meat and alternatives ••eggs, almonds, pumpkin seeds, peanut butter // 4

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being WE ARE PROUD TO LAUNCH MYHEALTH, A WELLNESS PROGRAM and not merely THAT HAS BEEN CREATED EXCLUSIVELY FOR OUR EMPLOYEES. the absence of disease. The primary focus of myhealth is to keep our employees healthy. In support of the launch, and as part of the wellness program, activities, events and education WORLD HEALTH sessions will be organized throughout the year. Our goal is to provide employees ORGANIZATION (WHO), with the understanding and knowledge necessary to live a healthy lifestyle – 1946 mentally, physically and emotionally.

Employees will have access to an MAI Occupational Health Nurse to provide guidance, education and support in health related matters.

What is a workplace wellness program? Our new workplace wellness program is an organized program that includes access to medical professionals as well as other support programs designed to support all employees to adopt and sustain behaviours that reduce health risks, improve quality of life and enhance personal effectiveness. That will benefit the organization overall through a healthier, more engaged workforce.

Why should every employee take advantage of our new workplace wellness program? We all have some sort of health risk to varying degrees, whether it’s unhealthy eating, lack of exercise or sleep, drinking, smoking, or even a genetic condition such as diabetes. Taking advantage of our workplace wellness program through educational sessions we will be offering, or by contacting one of our nurses on staff, can help you to make positive changes. Not only will you be more able to complete your everyday responsibilities here at work, you will have more energy to give to your family and friends when you get home.

As our workplace wellness program evolves, we will promote different sessions that may be relevant to you and help you to get healthier. This could simply be learning how to reduce stress and muscle strain when you are on the job, cope with holiday stress or keep physically active during the winter season.

Strait Talk // September 2015 // 5

The primary focus of myhealth is to keep our employees healthy.

We will also be hosting clinics and individual sessions to assist you in meeting weight loss goals, lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, and achieving healthier sleep. Sometimes all you need is a little motivation, so our nurses will be here to help you get started.

Can I contact our Occupational Health Nurses directly? Absolutely. Please contact Karen or Jacqueline directly concerning your health questions. Your personal health information will be confidential.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH NURSES CONNECT Karen Devoe, BN RN COHN(C) [email protected] North Sydney 902-794-6089 Jacqueline Munden, BN RN [email protected] Port aux Basques 709-695-4394 // 6

Argentia Update

Top Row, L-R: John Le Riche; Roxanne Lake, Tara Greene, Leo Duke, Theresa Power, Brian Griffin; Captain Barry Noel. Bottom Row: Brendan Whiffen, Allan Griffiths

Argentia Having Another Great Summer Season After 11 years as Terminal Manager in Argentia, John LeRiche has witnessed significant change which has translated into a stronger and much more positive experience for customers. From new investments, infrastructure upgrades, and a hard-working dedicated team of professionals on the ground, John is very proud of what his team has accomplished together during his time in Argentia.

John recently announced that this would be his last summer Reflecting on the changes he has witnessed over his 11 years, as Argentia Terminal Manager as he prepares to retire at the John highlights how the camaraderie of the staff has grown, end of November, but you can see the pride in his face when employees have become closer and people really enjoy discussing his 11 years at the terminal. One thing is for certain, showing up at work every day. "We have a fabulous working he has plenty of positive words for the people he works with relationship with each other and with the vessel which makes day in and day out. "I couldn’t have had a better team of people everyone’s job that much easier, and I think that shows in the during my time here in Argentia if I hand-picked them myself. service we provide customers." They all work together as one unit, one family and that is a large part of our success. Even when things are challenging, Of course, having the MV Atlantic Vision replace the they know what needs to be done, they take ownership and MV Joseph and Clara Smallwood in 2011, and investments such pride in their service." as new docking infrastructure, new ticket booths, an upgraded marshalling yard, renovated terminal and stevedore buildings, and other infrastructure upgrades have certainly played a major role in transforming the service over the years.

Strait Talk // September 2015 // 7

Top Row, L-R: Wendell Hunt; Rod Rideout. Bottom Row: L-R: Darren Hatcher; Brendan Whiffen, Theresa Power, John LeRiche, Derm Hann, Tara Greene, Allan Griffiths, Peter Power; Rose Vallis

And while acknowledging the capital investments, John credits the employees "I couldn’t have had a better for adding a positive human experience for team of people during my time the customer. here in Argentia if I hand- With traffic up approximately 13 per cent over last picked them myself. They all work year, Argentia is demonstrating that it is a destination of choice for many tourists who are looking for a convenient together as one unit, one family and method of travel to eastern Newfoundland. Despite this being that is a large part of our success." John’s last summer managing the operations in Argentia, he has great confidence for the future. John LeRiche, Argentia Terminal Manager

"We have a great team in place that will be an asset for the next Argentia terminal manager. As I finish up later this month, all I can say is thank you to the many people who have made this a great 11 years. Not only have I had the pleasure of working with a great staff, but I’ve made some terrific friends as well. It truly does seem like family and I will miss them all." // 8

Argentia Great Customer Reviews Resulting From Update Teamwork On The MV Atlantic Vision

With passenger bookings up 13 a clogged toilet, or helping a person with departments are working together to percent this year, the staff onboard a disability, we know what has to be get the job done." the MV Atlantic Vision have had a busy done and we are doing it quickly summer season connecting Argentia and professionally." From Albert’s perspective, having and North Sydney. everyone working towards the same Captain Barry Noel has also noticed the customer service goal is achieving Albert Edwards, Senior Chief Steward, positive teamwork and morale onboard great results and he looks forward to says teamwork has been an important the MV Atlantic Vision this summer. the continued spirit of cooperation and part of their success."This summer has "The front-line staff have been doing a teamwork. "We have a great team and the been really busy, but we are all working tremendous job. From efficiently loading results are speaking for themselves." together to get the job done. From the ship to dealing with customer issues passenger services to deck and engine in a positive manner, the teamwork everyone has been doing their part and approach is working quite well. A good As we wind down our summer season, the teamwork has been great. Whether it team is critical to our service and it stay tuned for the October edition for a is a passenger complaint, appears supervisors and staff from all full recap.

The staff were friendly, Staff, accommodations helpful and courteous. Very very satisfied! and entire journey I would recommend Keep up the great was fabulous! this vessel to anyone!! level of service!! MV Atlantic Vision MV Atlantic Vision MV Atlantic Vision July 2015 July 2015 August 2015

Strait Talk // September 2015 CORPORATEGOOD MESSAGES NEWS // 9

Feeling Safe & Secure At Work Profiling Keith Burton

All of our employees have regular What was your background before interaction with our security staff. joining our team? We see them every day and we are glad I was in the Air Force and retired in they are there when we need them. But 1993 with 20 years of service. I was Keith Burton near the Canadian Forces what do we know about these valuable an Air Weapons Technician and in the Poppy Memorial, taken by Steve Douglas, members of the Marine Atlantic team? E.O.D. (Explosive Ordnance Disposal or Security Advisor We know that they help to keep us safe Bomb Squad). and secure while they are hired to us THE CORPS OF through the Corps of Commissionaires How do you feel your previous work COMMISSIONAIRES and that they are no less part of our team. serves you in your current capacity? The transition from military service to LOOKING BACK The Corps of Commissionaires provides the Commissionaires has a lot of appeal. The history and traditions of us with a ready-made workforce that has I feel my mindset from the military is an the Corps of Commissionaires security clearance, are trained in up-to- asset for security, and my observation dates back to 1859. Their founder, date security systems and technologies, skills developed during my previous Captain Edward Walter, envisioned have crisis management skills and are career. In regard to threats, we already an organized effort to assist veterans dedicated to a high standard of service. have a vigilance and awareness regarding with the transition back to civilian suspicious items, people and behaviours. life. Established in Canada over 90 years ago, today there are more than Meet Keith Burton Keith is a member of the Corps of What is something about you that 19,000 Canadians employed with the Commissionaires and currently works you’d like to share, that others may Commissionaires. Although not all at our North Sydney Administration find interesting? have served Canada as soldiers, most Building. He was recently photographed My passion for music. I actually have. Others come from a policing or alongside the Canadian Forces Poppy approached the military hoping to join as security background, or other related Memorial on display at the North Sydney a musician but there were no openings. fields of service. Terminal on August 6, on its way to I joined anyway and soon enjoyed the a dedication event at Botwood, NL. career. I was still able to volunteer with HOW THEY SERVE NOW He was attending with other fellow the military brass bands and played with There are members of the Commissionaires to observe and pay Stadacona and Greenwood. I sing and Commissionaires employed all their respects. Following this, he agreed play piano, organ, guitar and trumpet. I’m across Canada at airports, seaports, to a brief interview about his work at the Organist and Music Director for the government offices, schools, Marine Atlantic. Westmount United Church. I also play hospitals, etc. The Corps with a band called Godsend which raises of Commissionaires provides us How long have you been working for money for charitable causes. with a ready-made workforce that: Security at Marine Atlantic? • has security clearance; Five and a half years. I started at the Special thank you to Julie Serroul for preparing • are trained in up-to-date security North Sydney Terminal. Once Marine this in-depth article. systems and technology; Atlantic acquired the building in the • have crisis management skills; and industrial park that would become our • are dedicated to a high standard current Administration Building, I was of service. among the first in the building as a security presence. // 10 CORPORATE MESSAGES

people

SUVs

Front row, L-R: Paul Williams, National; Meg Vis, National; Susan Batterson, MAI; terminals John Sherlock, Photographer. Back row, L-R: Chris Crockwell, Photographer; Ashley Thistle, MAI. Photo by Albert Edwards, Senior Chief Steward, MV Atlantic Vision, Tour B crossings MV Highlanders During the week of August 17, the Marketing and Corporate Strategy MV Atlantic Vision departments joined forces to conduct a photo shoot for the corporate values project and to update the image library for Marketing. administrative offices We would like to extend a big thank you to all our employees, on-shore and on-board, who assisted us during our travels, ensuring that we were able to capture everything we wanted and more in such a short period of time. We wouldn’t have been able to achieve what we did without the assistance and support of our employees. This is a great example of what teamwork, excellence and commitment are all about.

DNV PROFESSIONALS NOW AVAILABLE 24/7 TO PROVIDE EMERGENCY ADVICE A GENTLE REMINDER FOR EMPLOYEES TO CONTINUALLY REVIEW EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLANS FURTHER STRENGTHENING OUR EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACTIVITIES

Being prepared to respond to an emergency response professionals who have emergency situation requires detailed dealt with numerous emergency situations planning, training, resources and around the world. Through our registration, employees who know what to do in the we will have immediate access as required case of an incident. With our detailed emergency response to technical professionals who can help troubleshoot issues, plans in place, regular training exercises and key personnel provide recommendations and offer suggestions to challenges tasked with important emergency response roles, significant that may be presented. While this will not replace any of our work has taken place to ensure MAI is ready to deal with any current emergency response plans or activities, it offers situation that may be presented. Having said that, we can another resource for us to draw upon should we require never stop improving and are always looking at ways we can additional perspectives or advice on a particular issue. further strengthen our potential response. While our hope is to never have to use this new resource, In consultation with our Class Society DNV, Marine Atlantic knowing that it is ready and available will only help our recently registered to access the services of DNV ERS. This overall response activities and further strengthen our response centre is staffed around the clock with marine and planning activities.

Strait Talk // September 2015 GOOD NEWS // 11

Ripple Awards and Retirement Celebrations

Above Left: Chief Engineer William Critchley and Retiree Sr. Engineer Wayne Hackett. Above Right: William Critchley, Wayne Hackett and Captain Dan Strickland. Below Left: Ripple Award for Second Officer George Rushton. Below Middle: Retirement for Sr. Engineer Wayne Hackett. Below Right: Ripple Award for Jr. Engineer Leslie Hazelton

MILESTONE SERVICE PINS

Service pins were presented to the crew of the MV Leif Ericson on August 11.

Front: Bernice Chislett (15 yrs), Janice Enwood (15 yrs), Lorne Serroul (15 yrs). Middle: Robert Harding (15 yrs), Angela Churchill (15 yrs), Brad Clarke (15 yrs), Captain Scott Dowding (5 yrs). Back: Brian Barron (15 yrs), Johnathon Neil (5 yrs). // 12 GOOD NEWS

APPRECIATION & CUSTOMER COMPLIMENTS

As the summer wore on and the tourists flocked to our ferries, one thing is certain, they really, really like us! Here is a selection of customer comments from the dozens and dozens we received in the past month. Congratulations to everyone for service above and beyond.

Good morning, It has been one week now since arriving back home in Ontario after taking the Argentia ferry last Monday. In the way of background, my son drove to NL for a special We recently returned home from a wonderful trip to event with Molsons Coors in St. John's. He needed to fly Newfoundland, a trip that had been in the planning stage home after the event and asked if l could fly out and drive for years. Marine Atlantic welcomed us aboard with the one-ton truck and 28' stage trailer home. smiling faces and incredible service as we embarked on our journey to Port aux Basques. Everyone, no matter Things were a bit messed up with the truck and trailer what their job, couldn't be more helpful and pleasant. when l left St. John's for the ferry. Things got partially What a way to start our trip! sorted out but l had not eaten since early the day before and I had counted on grabbing a quick bite at the docks Three weeks later we were in line again at Port aux prior to boarding the ship. Basques. Stella was at the check-in window with the same happy smiling greeting that is a trademark of No food. I should have visited the website before arriving. Marine Atlantic. We advanced to the agriculture/soil I was met by a wonderful lady, l believe her name is checkpoint, and then to aisle 22 ready for boarding. Glenda Barnett. She advised me that l could unhook and head back into town but l declined due to the complexities Then it happened, my husband panicked. He couldn't find of the trailer. his wallet, said it was on his lap but now it was gone. He was devastated thinking about his bank cards and all the As l was waiting for the 5pm ferry, and l had arrived at work ahead of him. noonish, Glenda walked up to me asking if l had eaten. I replied no. She stated that she had a couple of things for I asked one question, "Since you put it on your lap, had me, left and returned a few minutes later with a toasted you stepped outside the car?" His answer was, "Yes, bagel and a TV-style dinner. when we went through the agriculture/soil checkpoint."

A wonderful lunch and a health saver. In today's world, Needless to say, I was gone in a flash, running to the and as a retired police officer from Toronto, people are too Marine Atlantic office. A call was made to the checkpoint, quick to complain and seldom express thanks especially in the wallet had been found, and within ten minutes a a written form. I just want to express my deepest thanks courier delivered it safely back to us. to Glenda for assisting me when l was in need. True compassion and a great employee. As well, the entire staff Thank you for your teamwork in getting that wallet back on land and on sea, were warm and welcoming. so quickly. And thank all of you at Marine Atlantic for wonderful crossings and such great memories. Thanks to all. All of you are Marine Atlantic.

Strait Talk // September 2015 GOOD NEWS // 13

We were onboard July 31 when the ferry delayed 7 hours. We appreciated highly your complimentary breakfast. We deeply thank your professional Great accommodations and crew. We got top service even though we know they're tired. services. Did not regret our God bless you all! decision to not fly in and out of NFLD. Thanks for the excellent services! I use a walker and Very impressive! everyone - and I Deluxe cabin is awesome, mean everyone - it's the way to go. could not do enough A whole different for me. Thank you! adventure compared to 30 years ago!

Customer Satisfaction Results April - July 2015/2016 In ALL cases Marine Atlantic maintained and/or grew satisfaction over last year!

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74.3% 81.8%

Source: MAI 2015/2016 Customer Satisfaction Research // 14 GOOD NEWS NAN & POP’S FERRY SURE HAS CHANGED Follow us online for #ThrowbackThursday as we pay tribute to our proud past and a history every Newfoundlander can be proud of.

@MAferries marineatlanticjourney.ca Every Journey Matters The following are excerpts from a want to journey again and again blog post by Dr. Jessie Voigts. Dr. with them. Albert noted that each Voigts journeyed to St. John’s, NL via ship's crew is like a small village – the MV Atlantic Vision this summer. about 100 people, and they are on She says one of the most fun parts for two weeks at a time. You see of their trip was the Marine Atlantic Selfie with Sr. Chief Steward Albert. this camaraderie and smoothness ferry experience. of working together in all onboard interactions. It's remarkable, and We thought we’d let her tell you in her worth noting." own words: "I also met with the St. John's staff, "Get ready and fasten your seatbelts! and was so impressed with the We’ve just returned from an Epic scope and vision of Marine Atlantic. Canadian Road Trip, driving from our Their purpose of providing the best home in Kalamazoo, Michigan all the customer service is unsurpassed in way out to St. John’s, Newfoundland the travel industry – and each person

(yes, a ferry was involved). Why? Well, Selfie with Ashley Roche and Darrell Mercer, I have spoken with has shown me I’m the co-founder of Writing Walking MAI Ferries St. John's travel media team. this, again and again." Women, and we chose St. John’s as Photos © Wandering Educators the site of our conference this year."

"The best part of Marine Atlantic… the people. They are so You can read Dr. Voigts' entire post here: caring – from our reservations help from Heather to the https://www.wanderingeducators.com/best/traveling/ people guiding us onto the ship, to Senior Chief Steward every-journey-matters-marine-atlantic-ferries- Albert's very kind help, the people are what make Marine newfoundland.html Atlantic special. When you receive this level of care, you

MAI IS NOW LIVE ON YOUTUBE Join us as we continue to highlight our notable events through social media. www.youtube.com/user/maferries

Strait Talk // September 2015 Sunrise in lovely Port aux Basques, #NL, #nlwx #nltraffic #ExploreNL GOOD NEWS // 15

New Hires Port aux Basques Shore-Based Stevedore Employees Sasha Stubbert Alisa Kettle Internal Auditor, North Sydney Dustin Osmond Dillin Osmond Summer Hires Christie Blackmore Vessel Passengers Derek Coffin Services Employees Nadine Hickey Andrew Taylor Jamie Scott Isabella White Robert Smith Megan White Josephine Muise Kirstin Poole Captain Shri Madiwal, Director of Fleet Aaron Bartlett Operations, presenting a Distinction Award Mackenzie Evans to Todd Feltham, Third Officer. Robyn Edwards Francis Musgrave Transfers Katelyn Stubbert Michelle Chew Lauren March Accepted a position of Senior Project Coordinator Jared MacInnis with Information Anita Holland Technology/Information Management, North Sydney, NS North Sydney Shore-Based Stevedore Employees Jacob Warhuus Happy Retirement! Troy Young Christina Brown Coralee Jobes Pension and Benefits Specialists, Human Resources, North Sydney, Craig Clarke retired on 31 July 2015 after 37 years of service. Port aux Basques Shore Ticket Clerk Employees A family celebration Christina Brown, Pension and Benefits Specialist, Shirley Hynes Human Resources, North Sydney, retired on July 31 after 37 years of service. In Memoriam Shana Fiander 09-JUL-15 Robert B. Gallop 37 Years of Wonderful Marcus Clarke Coordinator, Cash Register System Mary Beth Armstrong Vessel Deckhand Employees Moncton, NB retired on July 31 after Dillan Munden serving 37 years with MAI. A gathering was held Nathan Wells onboard the MV Leif Ericson. Mary Beth Armstrong’s retirement appeared in the notices of Strait Talk's August MARINE ATLANTIC | GUEST BLOG issue and we are delighted ARE MARINE ATLANTIC FERRIES ACCESSIBLE? to include a photo of her celebration here. YES!

BY DR. JESSIE VOIGTS, MARINEATLANTICJOURNEY.CA