Minimum wage workers in Ontario will be earning 31.5 per cent more by 2019 for doing the same jobs they are today. Not surprisingly, many business owners are concerned about the implications this massive increase in their costs will have on their business.

The provincial government announced it's introducing its proposed sex education changes. As expected opponents pounced, including Progressive Conservative leadership candidate Monte McNaughton. He gave Wynne the moment she needed to not only change the channel on her Sudbury scandal, but also to get the upper hand on the curriculum changes. There just aren't enough Ontarians looking to fight over sex education or who want to stand with folks who are actually homophobic or genuinely believe evolution should not be taught if people don't want it taught. They need to clear those last two issues up, very quickly and clearly.

There has been considerable media coverage regarding two patients who did not return from off unit privileges on January 22, 2015 at the Mental Health and the Law Service of the North Bay Regional Health Centre. The authorities do a disservice to the public by not telling us what 'conflict with the law' makes them dangerous, which creates more danger for the public at large.

What are your business resolutions for the New Year? We often take this time to reflect on our personal lives, but as small business owners it's an excellent opportunity to examine our professional lives as well. Less daunting than a business plan, meaningful resolutions can give your organization a fresh look at its direction and ultimate goals.