Derek Neary
Northern News Services

Fort Simpson (Feb 01/02) - "There's an old adage, 'The most dangerous thing in the world is a person with one idea because it might be the wrong one."

Bob "Idea Man" Hooey has countless ideas and he doesn't think twice about borrowing a good idea when he hears one.

In Fort Simpson for business workshops last week, Hooey told his audience that one just never knows who might provide inspiration and insight. For example, he recounted the story of a hotel being built in San Diego. The architects were racking their brains trying to figure out how to install the elevator within the confines of the innovative design. That's when the building's janitor suggested placing the elevator on the outside of the building. It had never been done before, but they did it.

"He wasn't afraid to think outside the box and be creative," Hooey said of the janitor.

Another of Hooey's favourite success stories is that of Clarence Birdseye, a U.S.-born entrepreneur who discovered that fish pulled out of arctic waters can be "fast frozen," giving way to products like frozen orange juice and frozen vegetables.

"Look at what's around you," Hooey urged his listeners. "If things make a difference in life it's because someone had the courage to act on an idea."

Hooey, who resides in Edmonton, found that courage for himself. A former cabinet maker, kitchen designer and Home Depot employee, he branched out five years ago and marketed himself as a motivational speaker.

"Sometimes I look into the audience and I can see the light bulbs go off ... it's the best feeling in the world," he said.

He told his audience not to be afraid to ask questions. Patience, persistence and creativity are imperative, he said. There are also certain places that lend themselves to creativity. For Hooey, it's the hot tub in his office.

Workshop participant Lorayne Moses said she found motivation in Hooey's words.

"I was just thinking in black and white. I was getting stuck," she said.

Sharon Allen also said she felt more in touch with her creativity following the workshop.

"I think I'm on the right track," said Allen.