Fun Time pottery is a small business in Brandon, located at 535 34th street. It’s a really fun place to go for the afternoon if you are looking to make a hand painted gift or just something for yourself. They have many options for kids and adults alike, ranging from little figurines to plant pots, dishware, Holiday themed décor, and more! They have many options for paint colours, and with your student ID you can get a discounted studio fee. The firing times differ, but your piece will usually be ready within a week or two. They are usually open between 10:30 and 5:30, but open later on Sundays and close later on Thursdays, so be sure to look at their website to confirm their open hours before arriving or call and tell them you are coming. If you plan to go with a bigger group, make sure you call so you can go at a time they will have enough space for you. Altogether, it’s a fun thing to do to take a break from your studies, and leaves you with a hand painted piece to take as a memory!
Mental Health
How Important is Mental Health?
Despite being a crucial part of our total wellbeing, mental health typically takes a backseat to physical health in our culture. The importance of mental health, its significant influence on our lives, and the methods and resources available to preserve and enhance it are all topics that will be covered in this article.
Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It is essential in determining how our ideas, emotions, and behaviours are shaped. How we handle stress, interact with others, and make decisions may all be influenced by our mental health. The basis for a happy and balanced existence is a sound mind. Anybody, regardless of age, gender, or background, can have mental health problems, since they are not uncommon. Anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia are a few of the most common mental health conditions.
Anxiety is characterized by excessive dread and concern, which frequently results in bodily symptoms such a pounding heart, tense muscles, and sleeplessness. Depression may lead to physical symptoms including weariness and changes in appetite, as well as prolonged melancholy, a loss of interest in activities, and other symptoms.
The first step in treating these disorders is understanding them, and it’s critical to keep in mind that assistance is accessible. The stigma that is still attached to mental health problems is a major impediment to receiving treatment. The stigma around mental illness has significantly decreased thanks to society; Yet many individuals are still reluctant to talk freely about it. This resistance might result in isolation and a delay in receiving treatment. Frequently, misconceptions and unjustified worries are the root of the stigma around mental health. These myths may be dispelled, and a more encouraging environment can be created by encouraging open discussions regarding mental health. It is critical to keep in mind that mental health issues are just as real and curable as physical health issues. There is a direct connection between our mental and physical wellness. When one is neglected, the other may suffer. Heart disease, high blood pressure, and a compromised immune system are just a few physical health issues that can develop because of untreated mental health difficulties. On the other hand, persistent troubles with one’s physical health can cause or make mental health disorders like depression and anxiety worse. An integrated approach to our well-being is essential in light of this link.
A person’s mental health may be impacted by a variety of things. Genetic, environmental, or situational aspects might all be included. Making educated judgements regarding mental health requires an understanding of these issues.
Genetics contribute to mental wellbeing. There is a genetic component to some disorders, which means they can run in families. Individuals who are aware of these inherited tendencies might take proactive steps to improve their mental health.
The environment plays an important part, too. Mental health issues can be made worse by stressful or traumatic events, violent exposure, or living in an insecure environment. For mental health, it is critical to provide a secure and encouraging atmosphere.
Trauma is yet another element that may influence mental health. People who have gone through substantial trauma, such as abuse, warfare, or natural catastrophes, are more susceptible to mental health issues.
Fortunately, there are many methods and advice available to support preserving and enhancing mental health. While some people may require medical attention, others might profit from these self-care techniques:
Self-care: It is crucial to schedule regular downtime and to partake in enjoyable activities. This might be engaging in hobbies, practising meditation, or just being with loved ones.
Exercise: Endorphins are released when you exercise, and they help to lower tension and lift mood. It’s a fantastic method of encouraging mental health.
Sleep: For mental wellness, getting enough sleep is essential. It enables the brain to recover and digest feelings.
Seeking therapy: A vital first step is to seek the assistance of a mental health professional when managing mental health difficulties becomes difficult on one’s own. Therapy provides a secure setting for discussing worries and creating symptom management plans.
For people dealing with mental health concerns, access to mental health resources is essential. There are several ways to get assistance, including:
Hotlines: People in need can get quick aid through a number of hotlines.
Therapy options: There are several therapeutic alternatives available to address a variety of mental health issues, including family therapy, group therapy, and individual counselling.
Support groups: These give people a place to connect with others going through similar struggles.
The need for assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness, and this must be emphasized. Everybody has the right to the chance to live a happy, full life and experience good mental health. Effective management of mental health requires a strong support network. The ability to get understanding, support, and encouragement from friends and family may be quite important. Individuals can obtain the help they require to manage their mental health issues by encouraging open and nonjudgmental conversation.
Workplace stress may significantly affect our mental health, even if it is a small but important portion of our lives. By encouraging a good work-life balance, giving tools for managing stress, and lowering stigma surrounding mental health conditions, employers may improve employee wellbeing. Employees, on the other hand, may take measures to manage work-related stress, such as setting limits and seeking help when necessary.
De-stigmatizing mental health disorders and creating cutting-edge therapies will be key components of the field’s future. People will feel more at ease seeking assistance when necessary if mental health issues are discussed more in public.
New drugs and other therapeutic innovations like teletherapy also give promise for
better outcomes and care.
As a result, mental health is equally important to our physical health and should be
treated with the same respect. We can create a happier, more understanding society
by learning about mental health, talking about it, and taking active measures to
promote it. Everyone should feel confident in their ability to deal with mental
health issues, ask for assistance when necessary, and reap the rewards of good
mental health. Remember that maintaining your mental health is within your
control and is essential to living a happy and balanced life.
Dr. Robert Mizzi: “Queer Flourishing: Why 2SLGBTQ+ Inclusion in School Libraries Matters”
On Thursday October 26th, BU will see its second instalment in a series of talks supporting 2SLGBTQ+ content in libraries. It will take place in the Gathering Space at the John E. Robbins Library, and all are welcome to attend.
Dr. Robert Mizzi is the Canada Research Chair in Queer, Community and Diversity Education. He is also an Associate Professor in Education at the University of Manitoba. He has received a extensive variety of qualifications and awards for his work, including an induction into the International Adult and Continuing Education Hall of Fame as well as the Royal Society of Canada.
Given the recent local importance of the topic, BU began this series in September. Its purpose is to give queer people a chance to share their experiences and inform the community about 2SLGBTQ+ perspectives. The first speaker was Professor Melissa Adler, who gave a talk entitled “My Queer Manitoba, in Books”. This talk was very well-received by campus and community members alike.
Spreading a Kinder World
Kinder World is an app on your phone designed to improve mental health and spread kindness. When you download the game, you are met by Samy, a fluffy white non-binary dog who is going to help you clean out your house! You start off the game by being gifted a monstera plant, which you get to name, and then water. When you water your plants, you can practice one of three mindfulness activities. You can pause and breathe, write a daily gratitude message, or practice emotional naming. When you write a daily gratitude message, it may actually get sent to other players playing the game. It is really cute because you can also write letters that will get sent to strangers playing the game. And you receive a letter from a stranger once a day. Emotional naming is a way to track the emotions you are feeling in the morning and at night. Your emotions are colour coded layers of sand and placed in a succulent plant jar. Once the jar is filled with the layers of emotional sand, your succulent moves on and you can start a new jar. Once your plant is grown (I named my first monstera plant Baby) you can move it into the greenhouse and start another one. As you fully grow plants, you unlock rooms in the house and can start to decorate them. You get prizes when you successfully grow “rare” leaves or a certain number of the same plant. Prizes are decorations for the rooms that you can unlock. The game is full of really cute characters such as Samy the dog, Luna the fox, Fern the moose and Quilliam the hedgehog. Throughout the game they will stop by and say hi. Your character is designated a flower when you get the game (I got a poppy) and when you add your friends your flower grows in their outside garden bed and their flower grows in yours. You can water your friend’s flowers in your garden to send them cute animations that will play when they go to view their garden, such as falling leaves, flower petals or dandelion seeds, a frog jumping around, or little insects buzzing around. Kinder World is such a nice app because it allows you to stop and relax for a few minutes of your day in the morning and evening. You can set the times your plant gets thirsty to whichever time would fit best in your schedule, and it doesn’t matter if you water it late. I would highly recommend everyone to download the app Kinder World.
A Tea Love: Bubble Tea
Bubble tea, also known as boba tea, has taken the world by storm with its sweet, chewy pearls and endless flavour combinations. From the streets of Taiwan to trendy stores in Brandon, this delightful beverage has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of people worldwide. Let’s take a whimsical journey into the colourful world of bubble tea, exploring its origins, unique characteristics, and the vibrant culture that surrounds it.
The history of bubble tea is just as fascinating as the beverage. A local tea vendor named Lin Hsiu Hui decided to spice up her traditional tea in the 1980s during a scorchingly hot summer in Taiwan by adding fruit flavours and shaking it with ice. The outcome? A popular fruity and hydrating tea that was a hit among customers. The delicious tapioca pearls that are added to the beverage to offer an additional layer of texture and enjoyment are referred to as "bubbles" in the context of bubble tea. How did these pearls get into the beverage, then? Some claim it was an accident, while others think it was a culinary stroke of brilliance. In any case, bubble tea emerged, and it hasn't looked back since.
Even though chewy tapioca pearls are the most recognizable topping for bubble tea, they are only the beginning. Fans of bubble tea have a variety of topping options, including small mochi balls, aloe vera, fruit jelly, and grass jelly. Each topping gives the beverage a distinctive touch, letting you completely personalize your bubble tea experience. Every sip is like going on a treasure hunt for your taste buds.
A Tea Love is my favourite bubble tea store here in Brandon. The flavours are amazing, and the atmosphere is a vibe! The store is located at F-223 18th St N, and open Monday to Saturday 11am-9pm and Sundays 11am-8pm. I have so many recommendations! Some of my favourite flavours are Blueberry Cheesecake, Honey Dew, Strawberry Banana, Taro with salted cheese foam and Buko Pandan. There’s more because I’ve high-key tried almost the whole menu. But you’ll never be disappointed with any flavour. Trust me! They also offer other items like smoothies and fruit tea. Hope you check it out!
Mental Health Corner
It is obvious that student life is often filled with academic pressures, social challenges, and personal growth. Navigating these aspects of student life can take a toll on our mental health. To help students maintain a healthy balance between their academic and emotional well-being, here are some essential mental health tips tailored specifically for students.
Establishing a Routine:
Create a daily schedule that includes time for classes, study, breaks, exercise, and relaxation. A structured routine can reduce stress and provide a sense of stability.
Practice Time Management:
For me, using tools like calendars and to-do lists to manage assignments, deadlines, and extracurricular activities works wonders. Effective time management reduces last-minute cramming and stress.
Prioritize Self-Care:
This is one of the most important tips to me. I allocate time for self-care activities such as reading, swimming, listening to music, or simply taking a leisurely walk. I also love going on solo dates as a form of self care. Self care rejuvenates the mind and reduces burnout.
Stay Physically Active:
Engage in regular physical activities to reduce stress and improve focus. Even short daily walks or runs can make a significant difference. You can utilize the Healthy Living Centre during your free periods.
Get Adequate Sleep:
Prioritize sleep by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Aim for 5-9 hours of quality sleep per night to enhance cognitive function and mood. I know that may be hard for most of you. But try your best!
Balance Social Life:
While academics are important, it is good to maintain a healthy social life. Spend time with friends, join clubs or organizations, and build a support network to combat feelings of isolation. There are many clubs at BU that you can join and meet new people.
Seek Academic Support:
Don't hesitate to ask for help if you're struggling academically. Reach out to professors, tutors, or academic advisors for guidance and support. Contacting Student Services if you feel like you need help, they are always willing to help.
Manage Stress:
Learn stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation. These practices can help you cope with academic pressures.
Avoid Overcommitting:
While extracurricular activities are valuable, avoid overloading your schedule. Balance your commitments to prevent burnout and maintain mental well-being.
Set Realistic Goals:
Set achievable academic and personal goals. Break them into smaller, manageable steps, and celebrate your achievements along the way. It’s always good to celebrate your small and big wins.
Talk About Your Feelings:
If you're feeling overwhelmed or anxious, talk to friends, family, or a counselor. Sharing your thoughts and feelings can provide relief and support.
Stay Organized:
Keep track of assignments, deadlines, and class materials. Organizational tools can reduce the stress associated with missed deadlines or forgotten tasks. Get a PLANNER!
Limit Screen Time:
Be mindful of excessive screen time, especially on social media. It can contribute to stress and distract you from your studies. Set boundaries for digital use. This is something I need to practice, I can definitely spend hours on TikTok. If you have an iPhone, there’s a way you can set time limits on certain apps.
Connect with Campus Resources:
Most universities offer mental health services and counseling. Utilize these resources at Brandon University if you're struggling with your mental health or need someone to talk to.
Practice Self-Compassion:
Be kind to yourself, especially during challenging times. Recognize that it's okay to make mistakes and that self-compassion is an essential part of mental well-being!
Educate Yourself About Mental Health:
Learn about common mental health issues and the resources available on campus. Understanding mental health can reduce stigma and encourage seeking help when needed.
As a student, maintaining good mental health is essential for academic success and overall well-being. By incorporating these mental health tips into your daily life, you can navigate the challenges of student life more effectively, reduce stress, and build resilience. Remember that seeking support when you need it is a sign of strength, not weakness, and there are resources available to assist you in your mental health journey. Prioritize your mental well-being, and you'll be better equipped to thrive as a student.
Truth and Reconciliation Week is coming to Brandon
The third Truth and Reconciliation Week is coming to Brandon from September 26 - October 1. Activities will include presentations and speeches, an Orange Shirt Day Walk, a closing ceremony with a feast to end off the week, and much more! The full schedule can be seen above, and more information can be found on the Brandon Urban Aboriginal Peoples’ Council Facebook page.
As a reminder, the University will be closed on Friday, September 29th in observation of Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30th. In recognition of this important day, take the time to read, practice, and remember the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action.
The play’s the thing for Winnipeg playwright speaking at BU
The play’s the thing for Winnipeg playwright speaking at BU
BU NEWS —
BRANDON – Carolyn Gray has made a writing life for herself in Manitoba. It has not been an easy journey, she says, but she has persevered.
On Tuesday, March 28 she will present a public talk at Brandon University (BU) that reveals how she has made it as a writer and playwright in this province. The talk will be held in Room 206 of Clark Hall from noon to 12:30 pm. Gray will take questions at the end of her talk. The event is free and open to all.
The talk is part of the ongoing Creative Writing Literary Exchange speaker series in the Department of English, Drama, & Creative Writing at BU.
Gray has written for the stage over the past several decades and been produced professionally by Theatre Projects Manitoba, zone41 theatre, the Winnipeg International Children’s Festival, and many independent theatre companies.
She was a founding member of the Adhere and Deny Object Puppet Theatre that produced innovative puppet theatre for many years in Winnipeg.
Her theatre work has taken her on tour across Manitoba, to other parts of the country, and overseas to England. She was a longtime collaborator with British playwright and actor Alan Williams, who exported the experimental methods of the acclaimed Hull Truck Theatre to Canada.
Gray’s life in theatre has spawned a rich trove of stories and experiences for her to share with local writers of all levels and at every stage in their development. It gives her great joy, she says, to reflect on her rewarding life in the writing trenches and to possibly inspire other writers to make their breakthrough.
She was the recipient of the John Hirsch Award for Most Promising Writer in Manitoba in 2008 and the Manitoba Day Award in 2007 for The Elmwood Visitation (Scirocco), a play that explores Winnipeg’s history in the 1920s as a renowned centre for psychic research. The Manitoba Day Award, for research excellence with a Manitoba focus, is presented yearly by the Association for Manitoba Archives.
Gray is the author of Dean Gunnarson: The Making of an Escape Artist (Great Plains). It was a book project that satisfied her personal interest in mystery and magic.
Currently, Gray is the editor of the literary journal Prairie Fire out of Winnipeg. She teaches creative writing sessionally at BU and also finds time to write for true crime television.
This event in the Literary Exchange speaker series is supported by the Rowe Fund and the Department of English, Drama, & Creative Writing at Brandon University.
For more information, contact Dale Lakevold at Lakevold@BrandonU.ca or 204-727-7413.
‘A Warrior’s Red Road’ exhibit highlights Indigenous men connecting to culture
‘A Warrior’s Red Road’ exhibit highlights Indigenous men connecting to culture
(BU News)
· Date: Tuesday, March 21
· Time: 6:30–9:30 p.m.
· Location: Glen P. Sutherland Gallery of Art
(A picture containing fungus, grass, outdoor, tree)
Description automatically generatedAn exploration of drum-making and Indigenous masculinity will be the centrepiece of a new exhibit at Brandon University’s Glen P. Sutherland Gallery of Art.
The exhibit, a collection of photographs created using a community-based research method called photovoice, explores how Indigenous men are connecting to traditional culture by coming together to rediscover drum-making.
Called “A Warrior’s Red Road,” the exhibit will be officially unveiled on Tuesday evening, March 21, from 6:30–9:30 p.m. The evening will include a visual display of photographs, drums, and words of the participants, along with a drumming circle with the men of the Akicita Cante Waste Men’s group. Refreshments will be provided, made with local Indigenous ingredients.
Members of the public are invited to the opening, but are asked to RSVP to Dr. Candice Waddell-Henowitch by email at WaddellC@BrandonU.ca so organizers can prepare for the appropriate number of visitors.
The exhibit will remain up at the Sutherland Gallery, which is open from Wednesday, March 22 through Friday, March 24, from noon until 3 p.m., and Saturday, March 25 from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Dr. Waddell-Henowitch is one of the BU researchers who partnered with the Brandon Friendship Centre and Dakota Ojibway Child and Family Services on the project.
“This exhibition brings exploratory research on Indigenous drum making to life. It is so moving to learn from the stories, photographs, videos, and experiences of drum making participants and researchers,” she said. “By seeing the project unfold, and by engaging in the display, everyone from policymakers, program funders, and the whole community will gain a newfound respect and admiration for Indigenous men’s cultural programming and see the importance of supporting this type of work.”
Funding was provided by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, the Canada Research Chairs Program, and Movember.
Success is built at Brandon University. Our growing, progressive campus welcomes a diverse and inclusive community that combines proud tradition with shared ambition. Through our excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship, we educate students to make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders. Join us at BrandonU.ca
CONTACT US:
Dr. Candice Waddell-Henowitch Associate Professor,
Department of Psychiatric Nursing
204.727.7404
WaddellC@BrandonU.ca
Grant Hamilton
Director, Marketing and Communications
204.571.8542
HamiltonG@BrandonU.ca
Assiniboine’s Land and Water Management Program to be hosted at Shoppers Mall on World Water Day
Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Assiniboine’s Land and Water Management Program to be hosted at Shoppers Mall on World Water Day
BRANDON, Man. (March 17, 2023)— Assiniboine Community College’s Land and Water Management program will celebrate World Water Day on March 22 by offering the opportunity for public engagement in the program’s classes that day at the Shoppers Mall.
Faculty at Assiniboine will host lectures and workshops at the mall, giving the public the opportunity to ask questions and interact with the classes and subject matter. Observers will get an idea of the class sizes at the college and engage with students and faculty to get a better impression of what life in the program could look like.
The classes will be held next to the Food Court near Entrance 4 at the Shoppers Mall on Wednesday, March 22nd from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There will also be an opportunity for people to bring in their own water sample to find out what’s in it. This is for demonstration purposes only and will allow students to gain experience using testing equipment. The students will test for phosphate, nitrate, nitrite, ammonia, Ca/Mg hardness and turbidity in creek, faucet or snow melt water.
“Giving potential students the opportunity to observe and interact with our faculty and students in an accessible setting removes barriers to exploring education and career opportunities,” said Land and Water Management Instructor, James Hood. “The Land and Water Management program connects natural resources, technology and the environment in an agricultural context, and is appropriate for those who are seeking a career in the management and protection of our natural habitats for wildlife and humans.”
Graduates of the program can go on to find careers as water managers, habitat specialists, environmental technicians, researchers, and in the administration of sustainable land use practices.
“We want people to experience the industry-leading programming students will find at the Russ Edwards School of Agriculture & Environment for themselves,” said Tim Hore, Dean, Edwards School. “Our Land and Water Management program is an integral part of the school and is central to the future of resource management training to be held within the Prairie Innovation Centre.”
About Assiniboine Community College
Assiniboine Community College has been providing exceptional learning experiences for more than 60 years, offering unparalleled learning environments and responding to the demands and requirements of the Manitoba labour market. Following the philosophy of “learn by doing,” programs combine theory with hands- on learning inside classrooms, labs, kitchens, shops, fields and the college’s Sustainable Greenhouse.
Assiniboine offers more than 60 certificate, diploma and post-graduate programs across a variety of disciplines including culinary arts and hospitality, business, agriculture and environment, health and human services, and trades and technology. The college also delivers apprenticeship programming in a range of skilled trades disciplines.
The college welcomed more than 3,700 full-time and 6,000 part-time students last year. With campuses in Brandon, Dauphin, Winnipeg and Portage la Prairie, Assiniboine provides comprehensive educational opportunities throughout Manitoba. The college also partners with many communities and organizations across the province to deliver customized education and training. Assiniboine’s annual provincial economic impact is $612 million. In the most recent survey of graduates, nine months after graduation, 94 per cent were employed, with 92 per cent remaining in Manitoba.
Assiniboine Community College campuses are located on the traditional territories of Treaty No. 1 and Treaty No. 2, the shared traditional lands of Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, Dene and Anishinabek/Ojibwe peoples, and the homeland of the Red River Métis. We acknowledge their welcome to the students who seek knowledge here.
For more information, please contact:
Kyla Cottom
Communications Specialist
Assiniboine Community College
cottomk@Assiniboine.net
204.725.8700 ext 6043
www.assiniboine.net
Visitor Perception of Bear Management and the “Bare Campsite” Program at Riding Mountain National Park
Visitor Perception of Bear Management and the “Bare Campsite” Program at Riding Mountain National Park
BU NEWS
Wednesday, March 29th @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Downtown Brandon Public Library
Presenters: Christopher D. Malcolm and Daniela Paz Campama Gonzalez
BU at the Public Library: All presentations will be held on the last Wednesday of the month, from January to June, from 7:00-8:30 in the Program Room of the Downtown Brandon public library. The library doors will be open at 6:30, and visitors can enter through the Town Centre Parkade or the Rosser Ave entrance. Parking at that time of the evening is free. Each presentation will also be catered by a downtown eatery, so expect delicious food as well as stimulating conversations. The presentations will also include door prizes, so these are events not to be missed!
SEASONAL LABOURERS
We have a variety of seasonal opportunities available in the Public Works Department to assist with the maintenance and repair of City Public Works infrastructure including roadways, buildings, underground infrastructure, and various other tasks. You must enjoy working outdoors, performing regular physical activity that can be repetitive in nature and in all types of weather!
We are looking for motivated individuals with experience to be hired in the following areas:
Building Maintenance Streets & Roads
Underground Utilities Sanitation
Preferred candidates will have:
Relevant work experience involving general labour or other related work;
Possess a valid Class 5 or Class 3 with Air Endorsement Province of Manitoba driver’s licence;
Possess the ability to operate equipment;
Knowledge of municipal infrastructure.
Help us hire you by providing the following information in your cover letter:
Class of valid driver’s licence you currently hold
Hours you are available to work & when you are available to start
Types of equipment you have experience operating if applicable
Other transferable work experience
Competition # 230014
Please apply with a cover letter and resume on-line at:
Posted on: February 15, 2023
Applications will be accepted on an on-going basis and hiring will take place as needed.
Rate of Pay:
$14.31 per hour – 2023 entry rate
$20.04 per hour – 2023 entry rate with Class 3 license.
*May receive a higher rate of pay dependent upon assignment of equipment operator duties
Hours of work: This position normally works full-time hours (40 hours per week) but the work day may include evenings, nights, weekends and days.
IMPORTANT: Seasonal Labourer’s have the opportunity to apply for other opportunities, including permanent positions, which are only open to current City of Brandon CUPE Local 69 employees.
Duration of position:
While most Labourer positions are seasonal in nature, usually lasting until late fall, there is the possibility of longer assignment
The City of Brandon is committed to an inclusive, barrier free environment and will accommodate the needs of applicants under the Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA) throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process. We thank all applicants for their interest; only those advancing in the competition will be contacted. If contacted to participate in the process, please advise if you require an accommodation.
If you are interested in finding out more about the City of Brandon job opportunities as soon as they are posted, please follow us on Facebook or Twitter!
Assiniboine receives $1.7M from Weston Family Foundation for education and outreach to build healthier soil ecosystems
Media Release
Embargoed until MIDNIGHT, FEBRUARY 15
Assiniboine receives $1.7M from Weston Family Foundation for education and outreach to build healthier soil ecosystems
BRANDON, Man. (February 14, 2023)— The Weston Family Soil Health Initiative, which seeks to expand the adoption of ecologically based beneficial management practices (BMPs) that increase soil organic matter to improve biodiversity and resiliency on agricultural lands across Canada, has granted Assiniboine Community College $1,680,827 for a five-year project to enhance soil ecosystems in Western Canadian agriculture.
The project, which is also supported by Farm Management Canada, the Manitoba Forage and Grasslands Association, and the Manitoba Association of Watersheds, will use education and outreach to develop a Net Positive Network to build healthier soil ecosystems in Western Canada. The project will work with innovative Western Canadian farmers, like David Rourke of Rourke Farms, to demonstrate ways to improve biodiversity and tackle climate change by adopting practices that lead to improved soil health.
“Soil is foundational to long-term viable agriculture and food production, and healthy soil can help mitigate climate change. This project will bring together like-minded producers to implement practices that will shape the way we farm and produce food,” said Tim Hore, Dean, Russ Edwards School of Agriculture and Environment. “We thank the Weston Family Foundation for making this project possible. Together we can engage with producers to develop communities of practice that promote regional and economically viable BMPs through farmer extension and post-secondary education.”
By 2050, the global population is projected to reach 10 billion people and global food demand is predicted to increase by 56%. Assiniboine's project will dig into the practical and pragmatic ways that producers have improved upon and continue to advance soil health and climate conscious practices, and will accelerate the development and implementation of those practices to ensure a sustainable future.
“It is clear, through the high-quality applications we received, that soil health is of growing importance in the agriculture sector and that there are scientifically proven yet underutilized approaches to increasing soil organic matter on Canada’s farmlands,” says Emma Adamo, Chair, Weston Family Foundation. “Our Foundation is committed to supporting landscape-level efforts to find solutions to our environmental challenges and, ultimately, improve the well-being of Canadians.”
“Farmers continue to make progress in preserving and nurturing soil health and yet still have many uniquely regional, technical and economic obstacles to overcome,” said Brent VanKoughnet, project lead. “This project will support and elevate the ingenuity of farmers to accelerate the development and adoption of increasingly more targeted and effective beneficial management practices.”
This project aligns with Assiniboine’s agriculture and environment applied research strategy by responding to sector challenges and industry needs through partner-driven collaboration.
About Assiniboine Community College
Assiniboine Community College has been providing exceptional learning experiences for more than 60 years, offering unparalleled learning environments and responding to the demands and requirements of the Manitoba labour market. Following the philosophy of "learn by doing," programs combine theory with hands- on learning inside classrooms, labs, kitchens, shops, fields and the college's Sustainable Greenhouse.
Assiniboine offers more than 60 certificate, diploma and post-graduate programs across a variety of disciplines including culinary arts and hospitality, business, agriculture and environment, health and human services, and trades and technology. The college also delivers apprenticeship programming in a range of skilled trades disciplines.
The college welcomed more than 3,700 full-time and 6,000 part-time students last year. With campuses in Brandon, Dauphin, Winnipeg and Portage la Prairie, Assiniboine provides comprehensive educational opportunities throughout Manitoba. The college also partners with many communities and organizations across the province to deliver customized education and training. Assiniboine's annual provincial economic impact is $612 million. In the most recent survey of graduates, nine months after graduation, 94 per cent were employed, with 92 per cent remaining in Manitoba.
Assiniboine Community College campuses are located on the traditional territories of Treaty No. 1 and Treaty No. 2, the shared traditional lands of Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, Dene and Anishinabek/Ojibwe peoples, and the homeland of the Red River Métis. We acknowledge their welcome to the students who seek knowledge here.
About the Weston Family Foundation
At the Weston Family Foundation (formerly The W. Garfield Weston Foundation), more than 60 years of philanthropy has taught us that there's a relationship between healthy landscapes and healthy people. That's why we champion world-class health research and innovation with the same passion that we support initiatives to protect and restore biodiversity on our unique landscapes. We take a collaborative approach to philanthropy, working alongside forward-thinking partners to advance Canada and create lasting impacts. We aspire to do more than provide funding; we want to enable others to find transformational ways to improve the well-being of Canadians.
For more information, please contact:
Anya McNabb
Director, Communications and Marketing
Assiniboine Community College
204.725.8700 ext. 6044
Laura Arlabosse-Stewart
Weston Family Foundation
laura.arlabossestewart@westonfoundation.ca
(647) 265-1960
Assiniboine Foundation Gala proceeds to support financial awards for Black Canadian students
Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Assiniboine Foundation Gala proceeds to support financial awards for Black Canadian students
BRANDON, Man. (February 13, 2023)— Proceeds from Assiniboine Community College’s upcoming Foundation Legacy Gala Dinner on March 23 will support financial awards for Black students. This fundraising event is held annually at the college’s Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts, with the proceeds going to a different dedicated purpose each year.
“The Legacy Gala is our largest fundraising event each year, where guests have the opportunity to experience a remarkable evening while supporting a worthy endeavour,” said Heather Dodds, Assiniboine Foundation Board President. “It’s a pleasure to be involved in this event, and I want to thank our supporters and guests in advance for supporting the future of Black Canadians at Assiniboine.”
“Assiniboine recognizes the importance of Black History Month, the legacy and future of Black Canadians. This fund and the financial awards it will provide is one step toward supporting Black students,” said Mark Frison, President at Assiniboine. “I want to thank the Assiniboine Foundation for supporting this fund and the future of Black Canadians.”
There was a more than 57 percent growth in the Black population in Manitoba from 2015 to 2019, with a 132 per cent growth in Southwest Manitoba and 97 per cent growth in Brandon during that time.
The Foundation Legacy Gala Dinner features a multi-course menu with wine pairings at each course. Culinary Arts, Baking Foundations and Hotel and Restaurant Management students work together to make this an unforgettable event.
“We are incredibly proud of the work our students do to contribute to such a wonderful evening that ultimately supports fellow and future students,” said Karen O’Gilvie, Academic Chair of Assiniboine’s Field to Fork programs, which includes the programs responsible for hosting this event. “This is my first Legacy Gala at Assiniboine, and as a Black educator and Red Seal Chef, this event brings together a few different areas that are meaningful to me.”
In recent years the Legacy Gala has given proceeds to financial support for Mature Student High School students (2017), Indigenous students (2018), Early Childhood Education students (2019), emergency student needs in light of the COVID-19 pandemic (2020) and students in healthcare programs (2022).
To purchase tickets or for more information about the Gala, contact foundation@assiniboine.net.
About Assiniboine Community College
Assiniboine Community College has been providing exceptional learning experiences for more than 60 years, offering unparalleled learning environments and responding to the demands and requirements of the Manitoba labour market. Following the philosophy of “learn by doing,” programs combine theory with hands- on learning inside classrooms, labs, kitchens, shops, fields and the college’s Sustainable Greenhouse.
Assiniboine offers more than 60 certificate, diploma and post-graduate programs across a variety of disciplines including culinary arts and hospitality, business, agriculture and environment, health and human services, and trades and technology. The college also delivers apprenticeship programming in a range of skilled trades disciplines.
The college welcomed more than 3,700 full-time and 6,000 part-time students last year. With campuses in Brandon, Dauphin, Winnipeg and Portage la Prairie, Assiniboine provides comprehensive educational opportunities throughout Manitoba. The college also partners with many communities and organizations across the province to deliver customized education and training. Assiniboine’s annual provincial economic impact is $612 million. In the most recent survey of graduates, nine months after graduation, 94 per cent were employed, with 92 per cent remaining in Manitoba.
Assiniboine Community College campuses are located on the traditional territories of Treaty No. 1 and Treaty No. 2, the shared traditional lands of Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, Dene and Anishinabek/Ojibwe peoples, and the homeland of the Red River Métis. We acknowledge their welcome to the students who seek knowledge here.
For more information, please contact:
Kyla Cottom
Communications Specialist
Assiniboine Community College
cottomk@Assiniboine.net
204.725.8700 ext 6043
Ten Adorable Valentine’s Day Date Ideas in Brandon
Ten Adorable Valentine’s Day Date Ideas in Brandon
By Lily Hodgson, Reporter
Visit T-Birds for some bowling or arcade games! Your Brandon University Paw Pass can get you a “sweet” deal on an hour and a half of bowling. Plus, if you visit the BUSU office, they sometimes have arcade coupons up for grabs!
Stay home, order takeout, and have a movie or game night. The Dock on Princess, Dominoes, and Papa John’s are just a few of the places that offer Paw Pass discounts when you order delivery.
See a movie at Landmark Cinemas. Puss in Boots, anyone?
Have a mall date at the Shopper’s Mall! Even if you aren’t planning on shopping, who doesn’t love people watching, window shopping, and eating delicious food court food?
Take a self-guided tour of the Daly House Museum. Full of fascinating antique artifacts and displays, it will transport you back to the 19th century – making it an absolute must-see for those interested in Brandon’s history. Admission is well worth the price, at only $5.
Take your Valentine out to Chez Angela Bakery for sandwiches, coffee, baked goods or even a delicious stone hearth pizza. As a bonus, you can get 25% off specific menu items with your Paw Pass!
Paint pottery at Fun Time Pottery! They have a wide variety of super-cute Valentine’s Day-themed pieces to paint. You can get a Paw Pass discount here, too.
Visit the Art Gallery downtown. The best part? Entry is completely free! Afterwards, visit the gift shop to support some local artists.
Cook a homemade meal. At Co-Op Grocery Store, in addition to a $5 off deal with your Student ID, $15 food vouchers are available from the BUSU office every second Thursday. Pick up some ingredients and try a new recipe!
Go thrifting! MCC Thrift, Plato’s Closet, Value Village, and Nearly New are just a few local thrift store options. Thrifting is a great and inexpensive date idea, and to add to the fun, you can pick silly outfits for each other and wear them out to dinner.
Assiniboine celebrates the rural rotating Practical Nursing training site in Arborg
Assiniboine celebrates the rural rotating Practical Nursing training site in Arborg
ARBORG, Man. (January 31, 2023)— Assiniboine Community College hosted a celebration luncheon at its rural rotating Practical Nursing training site in Arborg today.
“Assiniboine’s expansion of its Practical Nursing program in both permanent and rural rotating sites will allow more students to become certified in this high-demand health-care occupation,” said Advanced Education and Training Minister Sarah Guillemard. “Being able to attend training closer to home increases participation rates for rural students, which aligns with our government’s Skills, Training and Knowledge Strategy, and also supports our commitment to add 400 new nursing seats to meet Manitoba’s health sector needs.”
The site welcomed its first intake of nursing students in January 2021, followed by a second intake in September 2022. Today, President Mark Frison visited the site for a celebration event attended by nursing students and staff, Minister Derek Johnson, who is the MLA for Interlake-Gimli, and partners from the Town of Arborg and the Interlake-Eastern Health Regional Health Authority.
“Assiniboine continues to be responsive to Manitoba’s labour market and support economic growth by meeting community needs. Our rural rotating Practical Nursing training sites answer the call on both of these priorities. I’m thrilled to be in Arborg today to celebrate a site that has trained and is currently training many nurses who will go on to work in this community and region,” said Mark Frison, President at Assiniboine. “We thank our partners in community, healthcare and government for ensuring we can offer these training opportunities close to home for these nursing students.”
The college held a grand opening of its Virden and Otterburne rural rotating locations in November, with a similar event held in Morden earlier this month.
“Since 2010, Assiniboine has offered the Practical Nursing program over ten times in the Interlake-Eastern region in Ashern, Selkirk, Pine Falls, and Arborg,” said Marion Ellis, CEO of Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority. “We thank the college for continuing to host these accessible nursing education opportunities in our communities.”
Practical Nursing is the largest single program of study at Assiniboine, with 100 per cent of graduates surveyed reporting they had jobs. Since 1975, more than 4,200 individuals have graduated from nursing programs offered by the college.
In addition to rural rotating sites, the college has permanent Practical Nursing programs at its campuses in Brandon, Winnipeg, Dauphin and Portage la Prairie.
EMILI and ACC collaborate on ag-tech innovation and education
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
EMILI and ACC collaborate on ag-tech innovation and education
BRANDON, Man. (January 26, 2023)— Working together to increase digital skills to address labour shortages within the Canadian agriculture sector is central to a recent Memorandum of Understanding between The Enterprise Machine Intelligence Learning Initiative (EMILI) and Assiniboine Community College (ACC).
Over the next five years, EMILI and ACC will collaborate on projects that advance the adoption of intelligent technologies and provide Manitobans with in-demand digital agriculture skills. Examples include collaborating on the development of data literacy training programs, increasing work-integrated learning opportunities, testing new technologies to ensure they work on a full-scale farm, and sharing Innovation Farms data with students to inform the projects they are working on.
“EMILI and ACC share a common vision of growing Manitoba’s digital agriculture sector through innovation and education, and I’m excited to see the impact we will have by working toward solutions together,” said EMILI Managing Director Jacqueline Keena.
Technology is advancing at a rapid pace and will require people with new and evolving skills and work experiences. At the same time, climate change is presenting new challenges and an aging workforce is putting pressure on one of the cornerstone industries of our economy. Canada’s agricultural sector could be facing a shortage of 123,000 workers by 2030 ― that’s one in three jobs that could go unfilled.
“It will take a big investment in innovation and a new generation of skills to meet the demands being placed on the sector,” said Keena. “The initiatives EMILI and ACC are undertaking will accelerate Manitoba’s growth as a leader in digital agriculture, with benefits that stretch Canada-wide.”
The Digital Agriculture Strategic Roadmap which EMILI co-released with MI-AP in Fall 2022, highlights that the future of digital agriculture requires increased education and experiential learning opportunities to develop vital competencies around technology application, employee readiness, and human skills.
In recent years, EMILI and ACC have been working hard to realize the potential of digital agriculture in the prairies. According to RBC’s 2019 report, with the right mix of skills, capital, and technology, agriculture could add $11 billion to Canada’s GDP by 2030.
In 2022, EMILI launched Innovation Farms Powered by AgExpert, providing industry and academics access to leading-edge equipment, technology, and production practices on a 5,500-acre full-scale commercial seed farm near Winnipeg.
EMILI is also building the Canadian Agri-Food Data Initiative to drive collaboration and coordination on data governance across the whole of the Canadian agri-food sector. The ongoing work of the Data Initiative includes proof of concept technology demonstration, applied research, and knowledge translation through robust data literacy training programs.
Meanwhile, ACC is in the process of building The Prairie Innovation Centre for Sustainable Agriculture in Brandon, a collaborative learning space that promises to expand agriculture-related programming from 300 to more than 800 students annually, and further expanding the capacity for applied research, extension programs and industry engagement. This initiative was celebrated during Manitoba Ag Days when the provincial government announced a $10 million investment in the Centre.
“ACC is excited to collaborate with EMILI on vital applied research, education and training, and extension programs to advance agricultural technology. Data is key to the future of Canadian ag, and the RBC Farmer 4.0 Report has said that the advanced technologies emerging across agriculture and sub-sectors will change the skills needed over the next decade to be successful in the sector,” said Tim Hore, Dean of ACC’s Russ Edwards School of Agriculture and Environment.
“This partnership will help provide experiential learning opportunities for students using emerging technologies, and will help ensure that graduates obtain skills in areas like data analysis, robotics and automation. This partnership and the expanded programming proposed as part of our Prairie Innovation Centre will help fill this need.”
EMILI and ACC’s combined resources, most notably Innovation Farms Powered by AgExpert and ACC's Prairie Innovation Centre for Sustainable Agriculture, will provide people with the skills and training required to succeed in a digital agriculture economy.
Media contacts
Kyla Cottom
Communications Specialist
Assiniboine Community College (ACC)
cottomk@assiniboine.net
Jennifer Cox
Communications Manager
Enterprise Machine Intelligence Learning Initiative (EMILI)
communications@emilicanada.com
Assiniboine congratulates Dr. Deanna Rexe on receiving the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal
Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Assiniboine congratulates Dr. Deanna Rexe on receiving the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal
BRANDON, Man. (January 17, 2023)—Assiniboine Community College is extending congratulations to Dr. Deanna Rexe, who received the Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee Medal today. Dr. Rexe is the Vice President Academic at the college.
“Working with Deanna for the past several years, I have learned a great deal. Her commitment to students, education and applied research is first-rate, and she has been working to enhance student experiences and support college growth since she joined Assiniboine,” said Mark Frison, President of Assiniboine. “Deanna is a passionate leader and this honour could not be more fitting or deserved.”
Dr. Rexe holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Simon Fraser University. She joined the college as VP Academic in 2016. Prior to that, she conducted research in the Faculty of Education at Simon Fraser University, and had previously held senior leadership positions at Vancouver Community College, where she served as a Vice-President, and the British Columbia Institute of Technology.
For more information, please contact:
Anya McNabb
Director, Communications and Marketing
Assiniboine Community College
mcnabba@assiniboine.net
204.725.8700 ext 6044
BU at the Public Library returns
BU at the Public Library returns
BU NEWS
The popular BU at the Public Library Speaker Series is back!
The series features monthly talks by Brandon University (BU) faculty, staff, students, and community partners. All talks and presentations are designed to take the exciting research and work that is happening at BU and to share it with the Westman community.
BU has partnered with the Western Manitoba Regional Library (WMRL), which is hosting and co-organizing all the talks at the Downtown Brandon branch. The series is co-organized by Heather Tornblom and Deanna Smid at BU, and by Alex Rogowsky at WMRL.
“We’re excited to partner with the public library on this initiative,” said Tornblom. “Holding presentations off campus emphasizes BU’s engagement with our local community. Besides, the talks scheduled for this year look amazing!”
First held in 2018, the series went on a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, many Brandon University faculty researchers will be joined by their student or community partners, highlighting the collaboration that is so important at the university.
The first presentation is on Wednesday, Jan. 25, and will introduce a topic that is literally close to home. Christy Henry (University Archivist) and Morganna Malyon (Student Accessibility Services Associate) will be joined by research assistant Paul Refvik to present their research into the lives of unmarried, childless women in Westman, 1880-1985.
“We’re very proud of the research that our students and faculty do at Brandon University,” said BU Provost and Vice-President (Academic) Kofi Campbell. “This research is important and very relevant to our region. Community engagement is a crucial part of our mission, and so it’s very rewarding to be able to share this work, and I’m excited to have it presented in such a great venue.”
All presentations will be held on the last Wednesday of the month, from January to June, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., in the Program Room of the Downtown Brandon public library. The library doors will be open at 6:30, and visitors can enter through the Town Centre Parkade or the Rosser Ave. entrance. Parking at that time of the evening is free.
Each presentation will also be catered by a downtown eatery, so expect delicious food as well as stimulating conversations. The presentations will also include door prizes, so these are events not to be missed!
Schedule of Presentations:
January 25
Presenters: Christy Henry, Morganna Malyon and Paul Refvik
Title: Unearthing the Memory of Single Women in Southwestern Manitoba, 1880-1985
February 22
Presenter: Jack Lindsay
Title: 'What can disaster movies teach us about disasters?
March 29
Presenters: Christopher D. Malcolm and Daniela Paz Campama Gonzalez
Title: Visitor perception of black bears, bear management and compliance with the “Bare Campsite” program at Riding Mountain National Park
April 26
Presenter: Mostafa Torabi
Title: Applications of social media monitoring for businesses to improve customer satisfaction
May 31
Presenter: Emily Holland
Title: Called to the Stand: Forensic Anthropologists in Training and in Practice
June 28
Presenters: Centre for Critical Studies of Rural Mental Health
Title: A Warrior’s Red Path: Connecting to Culture through Drum Making
Alumni Night at the Games
Alumni Night at the Games
The Westman Alumni Chapter invites you to Alumni Night with the Bobcats.
Friday, January 13th.
Catch up with your fellow Brandon University alumni as you cheer on the BU Bobcats Basketball teams as they defend their den against the University of Manitoba Bisons!
Join us for free pizza, refreshments and door prizes in the exclusive VIP area set up for BU alumni and guests!
Don’t miss this networking opportunity to make new connections and new friends.
We all have BU in common, so come join the Bobcats’ roar!
Women’s game 6 p.m. | Men’s game 8 p.m. | Healthy Living Centre
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