Summit 2021: Disrupt and Reconstruct

PRESS RELEASE 

OCTOBER 20, 2021 

Summit 2021: Disrupt and Reconstruct 

National Conference on Queer and Trans Health 

Takes Place Virtually Oct. 27-29 

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA — Community-Based Research Centre (CBRC) will host its annual knowledge exchange and capacity building conference, Summit, online this year from October 27-29. The theme of this edition is Disrupt and Reconstruct, with more than 100 presenters and panelists looking at how we can achieve queer and trans equity in health care by rewriting routines of care and deconstructing systems that continue to leave out or deprioritize people in our communities. 

“Considering the access barriers, gaps in care, and elevated needs that Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer (2SLGBTQ+) people were already experiencing well before the COVID-19 pandemic, a return to ‘normal’ is simply not enough,” says CBRC’s Knowledge Exchange and Policy Development Director, Michael Kwag. “Measures previously thought impossible, including massive government interventions to stabilize the economy and mobilize health systems, were swiftly implemented. Given that COVID-19 has exacerbated health and social challenges for many 2SLGBTQ+ people, it’s more important than ever that we don’t return to the status quo.” 

Summit 2021 will explore how learnings from the pandemic and beyond can be leveraged to re-imagine a system that addresses critical gaps in queer and trans health care. The three-day event will bring together researchers, authors, human rights advocates, community leaders and participants from coast to coast for a series of presentations, panel discussions, and workshops. Events include: 

• ▪ Keynote addresses from Florence Ashley, Francisco Ibáñez-Carrasco, Jack Saddleback, jaye simpson, Kai Cheng Thom, and Rinaldo Walcott

• ▪ Should We Return to “Normal”? Examining Barriers, Disruptions, and Innovations to STBBI Testing for Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men in Ontario

• ▪ The Time Has Come: Giving Voice to LGBTQ2S+ Seniors in Long-Term Care

• ▪ A Pandemic Within a Pandemic: How the HIV Community has Adapted During COVID-19

• ▪ We Are Still Here: The Importance of Trauma-Informed Care for Queer Indigenous People

• ▪ SOGIECE/Conversion Therapy Survivors: Nothing About Us Without Us!

• ▪ Serious Legal Problems Among Sexual and Gender Diverse Communities in Canada

This year’s conference will also kick-off with its first ever Two-Spirit Day at the Summit and virtual Two-Spirit Gathering. “The opening plenary session on Truth and Reconciliation, and the first day of the conference being devoted to Two-Spirit health, is one of the ways that CBRC is demonstrating its commitment to being inclusive of and responsive to Indigenous communities,” says Jessy Dame, CBRC’s Two-Spirit Program Manager. The goal of the Two-Spirit Gathering is to provide an update on current Two-Spirit work throughout Turtle Island and collectively create recommendations that may help guide further Two-Spirit resurgence. Those interested in participating are invited to write to CBRC’s Two-Spirit Program Manager, at jessy.dame@cbrc.net 

There will also be three Pre-Summit events held during the week leading up to the conference (October 20-26): 

• ▪ PrEP: Where Are We Now? (Oct. 20 at 10 AM PT)

• ▪ HIV In My Day: An Open Intergenerational Dialogue on HIV History (Oct. 21 at 11 AM PT)

• ▪ Reflections from Summit 2020 Keynote Speakers (Oct. 26 at 8 AM PT)

Like the previous year, Summit 2021 will be virtual and open to the public. Participation is free, but participants must register to attend: https://cbrcsummit.net/access/start/ 

For Pre-Summit events, there is a separate registration process: https://cbrcevents.net/access/start/ 

The schedule-at-a-glance, as well as more information about the conference, can be found on CBRC’s website at https://www.cbrc.net/summit_2021. 

About CBRC 

Community-Based Research Centre promotes the health of people of diverse sexualities and genders through research and intervention development. CBRC’s core pillars⎯community-led research, knowledge exchange, network building, and leadership development⎯position the organization as a thought leader, transforming ideas into actions that make a difference in our communities. CBRC was incorporated in 1999 and is a non-profit charitable organization. Our main office is located in Vancouver, British Columbia; we also have satellite offices located in Edmonton, Toronto, and Halifax. 

Press Contact 

For interviews, please contact: 

Michael Ianni 

CBRC’s Media Relations Officer 

michael@praid.ca 

Halloween 2021

Halloween 2021

By Ronnie Kayla Neiman

Halloween is coming up soon and it the second one during the pandemic of COVID-19. Amidst the fourth wave of cases, many are unsure what to do with a holiday that children usually enjoy. Where people dress up creatively and sometimes ridiculously. Where people eat so much chocolate and candy that they can get sick. It is supposed to be a fun holiday, a way to relax and have fun. While we are not technically in a lockdown, it doesn’t feel safe enough for trick’or treating. 

Halloween is not just a single day celebration, it’s one entire season where tricks and treats happen, people put on their spookiest costumes and attend the eerie ghost tours in Brandon. Other than the regular traditions, there are some virtual events happening that feel safer than being out and about. 

Halloween Afternoon Tea is an event created by Dragonfly Delights Tearoom. 

$35 tea for one box
3 sweets, 2 scones, 3 tea sandwiches.

$70 Tea for Two, three tiered to-go tray
6 sweets, 4 scones, 6 tea sandwiches.

Curbside pick up only during covid.
Address: 339 12th Street
Make your reservations by email,
info@dragonflydelightstearoom.com
telephone 204-729-8914

Brandon Zombie Walk is on October 29th. Like last year, it cannot be done in person. This message is taken directly from their facebook page.

“Hey zombos! As many of you know Covid numbers are rising again and Due to the rising COVID numbers we are unable to have the zombie walk again this year! 😔 so like last year with help from our community we are going to be doing some draws for some pretty cool stuff. This will include some free tows from champion towing, Piercings, epicure, scentsy,  pink zebra, Another tattoo time certificate 🙂 also this year Weiming Zhao has offered another one of his gorgeous paintings!!!  We will also be taking donations of items like food for the cats and dogs, Chew toys and more!    We would like to thank everyone for your wonderful donations and support. We will be selling raffle tickets again for you to enter into these draws. We will either be taking e-transfers with receipt of your raffle ticket purchase, or socially distanced cash transfer. 

Ticket prices are as follows:

1 ticket for $2.00

3 tickets for $5.00

10 tickets for $8.00

Or

$10 for ONE entry into the Weiming Zhao painting 

If you would like to purchase tickets please contact Trista @ 204-730-2498 or Angel @ 204-574-4298

Text messages or phone calls are welcome, please leave a message if we don’t answer your call and we will get back to you asap.

LETS SEE HOW MUCH WE CAN RAISE FOR THESE WONDERFUL FUR BABIES”

These are two of the larger events happening in Brandon. There are also come haunted houses in the Brandon area. 

If you do go out, please take precaution for your safety and your health. Have a good Halloween. 

My Personal Study Tips

My Personal Study Tips

By Maria Garcia Manzano, AEIC of The Quill

Photo Credits: Maria Garcia Manzano

With over a month of school finally done, midterm season is fast approaching. With midterms comes the inevitable pressure to study. It may not be easy to know where to start with a full course load. Below I will share some tips on what I find helps me study and get better grades. Please note, every individual is different, and what works for me may not work for others.

1. Develop a Daily Routine: 

If you find yourself shuffling around the kitchen at 3 am, foraging for snacks instead of getting the sleep needed to get you through the next day, it’s time to devise a schedule. Even a simple plan is better than none at all. Set a dedicated time to wake up each morning, reserve times for meals, and study for each of your classes. 

2. Study with Friends:

Form a study group with close classmates for your more difficult classes.  This will force you to review the work often, think about the material, and participate in question-and-answer sessions. 

3. Create a Super-Study Space:

What is it that helps you concentrate? Is it your favorite music? Complete quiet? Snacks? Find the things that help you focus and set up your own super-study space. Creating an inviting environment is one of my go-to study strategies. Think about what types of things in your environment encourage you to study. This could mean having teas or essential oils, such as rosemary or Ginseng, on hand to help you focus. It could mean bringing in your favorite blanket or pillow for comfort. You could have soft music playing gently in the background, ideally only instrumental music, to not interfere with any memory processes while you study. You could keep a stash of brain food, such as pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate, oranges, or almonds, handy to help get you through. You might plug in a coffee maker for long study sessions.

4. Review Material Before Each Class:

Take good notes and be sure to review them before each class with your professors. This will help you be more prepared during the session, but there’s another perk. Hearing the information repeated back to you will help you better retain it. I try to take notes during each lecture, and then I take a half-hour afterward to either re-type them more cohesively or jot them down in a notebook, so they’re neater and easier to follow. I find that by writing down the high points of each lecture once or twice, I  remember them better. I also have legible notes to take with you when you leave the house to study. Furthermore, once I have legible notes, I can test myself and practice active recall. 

5. Prioritize Your Work and Relate it to You!

Lastly, be sure to prioritize work from most important to least important.  Dedicate the bulk of your study time to the classes you find most challenging. Spend less time studying for the lessons that come easier. Finally, connecting everything you learn to something personally significant to you will help you better memorize it.

ADES is 20 Years Old at BU!

ADES is 20 Years Old at BU!

By Ronnie Kayla Neiman

As a way to mark the 20th anniversary of the Applied Disaster and Emergency Studies program at Brandon University, the department will be hosting a series of unstructured, informal, and audience-oriented Zoom sessions. On the second Tuesday of every month, students, past and present can join with other past and current ADES students to share ideas, ask your, and connect with like-minded practitioners. 

Starting on October 12th 2021, taking place each moth until May 10th 2022. The meeting will take place at 6PM central time. Zoom ID and password are available on brandonu.ca under the homecoming section. No preparation is required, RSVP is unnecessary, and there are zero fees.

For more info contact John ‘Jack’ Lindsay, Associate Professor and Chair by phone (204) 571-8555 or by email at lindsayj@brandonu.ca

Verity by Colleen Hoover - A Book Review

Verity by Colleen Hoover - A Book Review

By: Mallory Johnson

Photo Credits: Google Images

I recently read the book Verity, by Colleen Hoover, and I LOVED it! It was my first

Colleen Hoover book, and I am so glad I read it. It is an adult romance thriller and is very

intense, dark, and disturbing. I do NOT recommend it for anyone under 18 years old. Before I go

any further, SPOILER ALERT. Also, trigger warnings for graphic child abuse, death, cancer,

murder, attempted murder, abortion, choking, grief, car crashes, severe injury, self-harm, child

death, cheating, and sexual content. The book is about a struggling author, Lowen, who gets

offered the job of a lifetime: finishing famous author Verity’s popular book series because Verity

got severely injured after an accident. She accepts, and the job requires her to stay at Verity’s

home with her husband and kid. She is sorting through Verity’s office when she finds a

manuscript that she was not supposed to see that details Verity’s life….in graphic detail.

I went into this book knowing it was dark and disturbing, but no warning could have prepared

me for what I was about to read. I highly recommend only reading this book if you can handle

the subject matter because it does not shy away from difficult subjects. This is Colleen’s first

thriller book (she writes romance books typically). I really hope she writes more thrillers because

this book was a wild ride. There are twists and turns that I did not expect at all. The story

features an unreliable narrator, so you do not know who to trust, which I think is very cool,

especially in a thriller. It was interesting to me how the ending was up to your own

interpretation, and I cannot stop thinking about it. I enjoyed reading the manuscript chapters,

even though they were graphic and disturbing. Colleen Hoover has a reputation for heartbreaking

books, and Verity did not disappoint. When it was not sad, it was intense, shocking, and brutal to

read at times.

Overall, I am so glad that I read this book. I love thrillers, and Verity is definitely a new favorite.

I highly recommend reading it, but please check trigger warnings beforehand. I give this a strong

10/10 and am so excited to read more from Colleen Hoover!

Movie Review

Movie Review

By: Kiersten Garbutt

Photo Credits: Google Images

Now that movie theatres are back up and running, with, of course, a few covid related

restrictions, everyone is looking to watch the next best thing. One of the newer movies you will

find is Venom: Let There Be Carnage, brought to you by Sony and associated with Marvel.

Venom: Let There Be Carnage is a captivating, humorous, and action-packed movie. The

movie starts with Eddie Brock, played by Tom Hardy, struggling with Venom being a part of

him. Eddie and Venom have a funny dynamic, which will have you laughing every time they

argue. This leads to character-building when Eddie and Venom have to overcome their

differences to fight the story's central villain, Cletus Kasady, played by Woody Harrelson. The

film itself is very impressive, as it is true that Marvel is never known for lacking in CGI. The

special effects and Venom look very realistic, making the movie enjoyable to watch. Of course,

this would not be a Marvel movie without the post-credit scene, which is very exciting and

surprising without spoiling too much.

Overall, if you are not huge into action movies, Venom: Let There Be Carnage would be

a good choice because it is not just action but really funny. Also, you don't need to know about

other Marvel movies (besides the first Venom movie) to understand what is going on. If you do

enjoy Marvel movies and follow the timeline of movies, Venom: Let There Be Carnage is a

must-watch! To conclude, this movie is enjoyable for anyone!

Assiniboine to deliver new tuition-free, Heavy Duty Technician program

Media Release

www.assiniboine.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Assiniboine to deliver new tuition-free, Heavy Duty

Technician program

BRANDON, Man. (September 29, 2021) – Assiniboine Community College is announcing a new

partnership with Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology and Indigenous Youth Development

Canada to deliver a tuition-free Heavy Duty Technician program. The program will commence in

December 2021 at the college’s North Hill campus in Brandon.

"As a former heavy duty instructor, I am excited about this partnership, which allows entry into this field

to those who may not otherwise have the chance,” said Assiniboine’s Chairperson of Mechanical Trades,

Lloyd Carey. “This is a gateway to jobs with excellent potential. These students can gain credit for their

Level 1 common core apprenticeship accreditation, which would allow them to branch out even further

into Heavy Duty Equipment, Agricultural Equipment or Truck and Transport specializations."

The program, funded by Algonquin College, prepares students for in-demand careers within a trade that

employers report has a shortage of skilled workers. As part of the program, participants will complete

hands-on, in-school training for 28 weeks plus a 280-hour paid work placement.

Selection into the eight-month program will focus on engaging Indigenous youth 18 to 30 years of age,

who are not in employment, education or training (NEET Youth). There is space for twelve students.

Tuition, textbooks, personal protective equipment, supplies and tools are all covered at no cost to those

enrolled in the program.

“Costs for training to acquire the skills and aptitudes required for entry into the job market are an

ongoing barrier to employment,” said Assiniboine’s Director, Indigenous Education, Kris Desjarlais. “We

are thrilled that students won’t have to worry about funding and can enjoy a hands-on learning

environment.”

Interested candidates must attend a free program information session as part of their admissions process

into the program. For more program details and to register for an info session,

visit assiniboine.net/heavydutyTF.

About Assiniboine Community College

Assiniboine Community College has been providing exceptional learning experiences for 60 years and

offers 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.

With more than 3,600 students, and campuses in Brandon, Dauphin and Winnipeg, 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.

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 Métis Nation. We acknowledge their welcome to the students who

seek knowledge here.

For more information, please contact:

Kevin Poirier

Dean, Trades

Assiniboine Community College

poirierk3888@assiniboine.net

204.724.0698

www.assiniboine.net

Human Milk: Ultimate Superfood & Personalized Medicine

MEDIA ADVISORY / PSA 

For Immediate Release 

October 1, 2021 

Human Milk: Ultimate Superfood & Personalized Medicine 

Celebrate National Breastfeeding Week in an online discussion with world-leading experts 

Winnipeg MB – As part of National Breastfeeding Week (October 1-7, 2021), Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba is hosting a free, public event that will share key discoveries on world-leading human milk and lactation research happening at the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba (CHRIM). 

Join local scientists and healthcare providers from the MILC team (Manitoba Interdisciplinary Lactation Centre) for a lively and informative discussion about breastfeeding; the role of infant nutrition in development, health and wellbeing; health-equity challenges and support for breast-feeding; and more. 

Registration is free and open to everyone! 

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZckdOqhrjkqGtY8Z_SyuciWKo8hTT5xifZm 

Tuesday, October 5, 2021 

7:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Central Time 

Featuring (bios attached): 

Dr. Meghan Azad, MILC co-Director 

Dr. Merilee Brockway, Postdoctoral Fellow, Azad Lab 

Carol Dyck, Instructor, Douglas College Perinatal Program 

Dr. Katherine Kearns, Family Physician, Winnipeg Breastfeeding Centre 

Janet Macaulay, Midwife, Winnipeg Regional Health Authority 

Natalie Rodriguez, MILC Operations Director 

Sarah Turner, PhD Candidate, Azad Lab 

MEDIA ADVISORY / PSA 

Biographies 

Dr. Meghan Azad, PhD | MILC co-Director 

Associate Professor, Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba Dr. Azad is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics and Child Health at the University of Manitoba and holds a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Developmental Origins of Chronic Disease. Her research program is focused on the role of infant nutrition and the microbiome in child growth, development, and resilience. Dr. Azad is leading a clinical trial to improve matching procedures for preterm neonates receiving donor human milk and directs the new International Milk Composition (IMiC) Consortium. Dr. Azad also serves as Secretary for The International Society for Research in Human Milk and Lactation (ISRHML) and as an Expert Member on the NIH Breastmilk Ecology: Genesis of Infant Nutrition (BEGIN) Working Group. 

Dr. Merilee Brockway, PhD, RN Postdoctoral Fellow, Azad Lab, Pediatrics and Child Health, University of Manitoba Dr. Merilee (Meredith) Brockway is a PhD prepared registered nurse with expertise in maternal-child health, infant feeding, and patient engagement. She completed her PhD in nursing at the University of Calgary, examining maternal breastfeeding self-efficacy and infant feeding outcomes in moderate and late preterm infants. Merilee is currently a post-doctoral researcher in the Azad Lab exploring clinical applications of donor human milk for very preterm infants. Merilee is also a co-lead on the iPOP Study, building on her expertise in patient and community engagement to ensure inclusiveness and meaningful exploration throughout the collaboration. 

Carol Dyck, BN, IBCLC Instructor, Douglas College Perinatal Program Carol has an extensive background in public health nursing in Manitoba and BC. This work included coordinating several pilot projects in perinatal and early childhood development. She has recently retired from nursing but continues to work part-time in a variety of roles including; Instructor for the Douglas College Breastfeeding Education programs, Chair of the newly formed Manitoba Lactation & Breastfeeding Support Network and Member of several social justice Indigenous/Settler Relations committees. She has a passion for supporting breastfeeding parents, particularly Indigenous, who are experiencing health equity challenges in accessing the support they need to meet their infant feeding goals. 

MEDIA ADVISORY / PSA 

Dr. Katherine Kearns, MD, CCFP, IBCLC, FCFP Assistant Professor, Physician, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba Dr. Katherine Kearns is a Family Physician who works in Breastfeeding Medicine at the Winnipeg Breastfeeding Centre she co-founded in 2017, the first of its kind in Manitoba. She also does low risk Obstetrics, seeing moms and babies throughout the prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum periods. Needing significant support for breastfeeding difficulties with her second child, Katherine understands how important knowledge and support are to family and societal breastfeeding goals. She also regularly presents to residents and physicians in various specialties, and to students currently in medical school. Dr. Kearns was recently awarded a Manitoba Honour 150 Award, recognizing her work to educate and support Manitoba families, physicians, and medical trainees about breastfeeding. 

Janet Macaulay 

Midwife, Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA) 

Janet Macaulay is a white, settler, cishet registered midwife in the WRHA. She has been working as a midwife in Manitoba since 2006. Janet has a special interest in social justice and health equity, especially as it applies to birthing folks and their babies. Janet is passionate about supporting all families to feed their babies, whether it is breastfeeding, chest feeding, feeding from the body with supplemental systems or formula from a bottle. 

Natalie Rodriguez, MBA, ACC | MILC Operations Director Program Director, Azad Lab, CHRIM, University of Manitoba In an acclaimed career of truly transformative and translational work, Natalie Rodriguez has implemented new systems, technologies, platforms, initiatives and discovery worldwide. A myriad of credentials, awards, appointments and certifications reflect her fierce commitment to research and ongoing learning by defying boundaries and improving the lives of children and their families. Natalie co-directs the new International Milk Composition (IMiC) Consortium, her current projects focus on global health, maternal & infant nutrition, and human milk composition. 

Sarah Turner, MSc PhD Candidate, Azad Lab, Community Health Sciences, University of Manitoba Sarah is a Vanier Scholar and PhD student in the Department of Community Health Sciences at the University of Manitoba. Her research focuses on how breastmilk and breastfeeding contribute to child neurological development and behavioural outcomes. She is interested in how both the nutritional qualities of breastmilk and the psychological benefits of breastfeeding contribute to infant health and wellbeing. Sarah is interested in knowledge translation and how to best communicate breastfeeding research to the public. 

MEDIA ADVISORY / PSA 

About Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba: Celebrating 50 years of community impact Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba is dedicated to ensuring that every child treated at HSC Winnipeg Children’s Hospital has the best care and experience possible. Since 1971, with incredible donor support, the Foundation has raised more than $150 million to help sick and injured children from Manitoba, Northwestern Ontario, and Nunavut. Funds support important programs that bring comfort to sick children, life-saving equipment, and health research to improve the lives of children everywhere. Let’s make anything possible. Learn about your impact at goodbear.ca. 

About Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba 

The Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba (CHRIM) is the research division of the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba. At the Institute, more than 270 world-class pediatric medical researchers, technical staff, students, and support staff are involved in nearly $20 million of research and clinical trial activity each year. CHRIM is the first research facility dedicated exclusively to pediatric research in the prairie provinces. www.chrim.ca 

For more information: 

Katherine (Kat) W. Fox 

kfox@goodbear.ca 

204-330-2294 

goodbear.ca  

Attending Classes

Attending Classes

by Mary Okorie

Classes have resumed for fall and some programs are offering mixed classes which   is some classes are in person while others are still online. Some other programs are offering classes primarily online because of Covid 19 and government restrictions. Irrespective of how lectures are delivered, it is very important to attend classes. 

Some people are finding it hard to adjust back to going for in-person class especially when they have had a year of online and the weather is getting colder as the days go by. It is not easy to wake up on a cold early morning and take a walk to school and people would prefer to be at home. There are still benefits of going to class. People get to interact with each other while adhering to wearing mask. Friends and connection are made which is hard to make in an online delivered class. Attention span is also better when sitting on chair and desk rather than being in bed. It is still very important to attend online classes, especially if that is how the course material is being delivered. Professors tend to say important things and give hints in class. Sometimes there are questions asked in class that can be very helpful. Some professors also take attendance and add it to grade marks. The importance of attendance is always strong and should be adhered to. 

Also students should try to prepare before coming to class by reading class materials, preparing questions to ask in class and also having a good night rest so they are not groggy and feeling tired the next day.

Though it might be hard to attend classes online or in person, the importance cannot be stressed enough in achieving success in the semester.

Mental Health Resources

Mental Health Resources

by Kiersten Garbutt

(Image Credit: Creative Commons)

With the school year back in full force. Some of us may feel overwhelmed, homesick, or just stressed out. Fortunately, Brandon university has many accessible resources for those who are seeking some extra help. Brandon university counselling is now offering WebEx, phone-in, and in person counselling appointments. Therefore, whatever your preference is, Brandon university is there to counter to your needs. 

The process of booking an appointment is super easy. You can go the Brandon University website and go to student services. There you should find where you can book an appointment for multiple types of counselling, including advising, personal, and career. It is important to remember that going to counselling is not a form of weakness of any kind. Counselling will help you achieve your goals more easily and offers a judgement free place where you can properly deal with your emotions.

The thought of going to counselling still may be scary. However, there is still many resources you can go to, without the commitment. There are many crisis support lines such as Mobile Crisis Unit (1-888-379-7699), Manitoba Suicide Line (1-877-435-7170), Sexual Assault Crisis Line (1-888-292-7565), and many more available under Community Resources on the Brandon University Website. 

Whatever it is, you are never going through it alone. If you notice another student in distress, it is actually psychologically proven, if you bring up their wellness, they are more likely to ask for help. Early indications of students in distress, and stated on the Brandon University website, may be a decrease of quality of work or physical appearance, disturbing other students, regularly expressing hopelessness, withdrawing from activities they once enjoyed, indirect and direct references to suicide, and attendance becomes irregular. 

Poor mental health can be really tough to deal with, however there are many resources, as previously mentioned, that can teach healthy coping mechanisms or offer safe environments. No matter what the struggle is, you never have to face it alone!

Back to school

Back to school

By Kiersten Garbutt

Campus is back to its lively self since the university welcomed class sizes under 25 to be held in person. There are many new opportunities that many students have never gotten to experience before. The simplest things, such as meeting new people after class (face to face), studying in the library, going to the healthy living centre, are all new and exciting for most of us.

To succeed on campus, students should know that their ID card is quite literally the key to everything. The ID card will allow access to the library, healthy living centre, and many other buildings. Which leads us to our next topic, being on campus is nerve wracking but seriously exciting.  We should all take advantage of the resources provided here by BU.

 Instead of studying at home (like we all have been doing for the past year), study at the library! The library offers a quiet atmosphere that allows no tolerance for distractions. Tables and chairs are spread 6ft apart to allow social distancing. Additionally, masks are mandatory. This allows your visit to the library to be a safe one.

Health and fitness is very important to a good lifestyle, so why not take advantage of the healthy living centre, which is included with our tuition. When a student wants to go to the gym, they should know that to have access they will need to book an appointment online through their website. This procedure is extremely easy and fool proof. Once your appointment is booked you are good to go attend the various classes, track, or fitness centre that they offer. 

Remember to follow the guidelines the university and government have set in place to keep every student safe!  

Campus Bookstore

Campus Bookstore

By Ronnie Kayla Neiman

At Brandon University, the campus bookstore is open to in-person shopping for your textbooks. Only a limited number of people are allowed in. Masks and hand-sanitising are required for entry of course. There are a number of employees there to help you find the textbooks you need. Just be sure you have the course number with you so that the books can be found more easily. 

Various school related supplies, and Brandon University brand clothing are available to be bought. 

There is still the option for online shopping of textbooks and certain supplies. You can just enter your course number on the website bkstr.com/brandonustore/home and find the textbooks that way. The order, once in can be picked up in person at the store or other arrangements can be made.

Just be sure to ask for help at the bookstore should you need it. The employees are very kind and helpful. 

Winning Shot Contest

Winning Shot Contest

by Ronnie Kayla Neiman

(Photo Credit: Creative Commons_ ccpixs.com)

With the fall semester starting up again and the campus being reopened, as well as the newly added vaccination requirement to art rend in-person classes and to use the various student services, getting vaccinated is high on the list of things that need to be done now.

Brandon University is offering an incentive for those who have been vaccinated and for those who will be. Introduced with the caption “Get fully vaccinated as soon as you can, and we’ll be back together, faster.” 

Plus now you can win your share of more than $10,000 in valuable BU prizes!

There is a give away of Grand Prizes of $5,000 towards your tuition or other BU expenses, plus 35 other prizes. Faculty and staff can enter to win too. 

Due to the university creating a vaccination requirement so close to the beginning of the semester, the deadline to enter the contest is October 31 2021. 

To apply, visit the Brandon University homepage. There is a direct link to the application page. It is quick and very simple. A good contest to create more incentive. 

Brandon University Co-op Program

Brandon University Co-op Program

by Ronnie Kayla Neiman

(Photo Credit: Creative Commons_ C.O.D. Library)

Co-operative Education is a structured approach that will formally integrate a student’s academic studies with relevant work-related experience. It alternates student study terms with work terms. Co-op is a partnership between the university, the employer, and the student. All three parties work together to enhance students’ employability skills and contribute to their intellectual, professional, and personal development.

Whatever your career goal is, Co-op can help you gain knowledge, and insights that will give you a competitive edge for your future. Co-op will help you clarify what you want to do after graduation. For some students, they go right into their career, whereas others prepare for further studies like graduate school or professional programs. The Co-op program can help those choices.

A student can apply for this program prior to joining the university, or once they are a student. The application page is on the Brandon University website. Potential employers can even directly link to the website to find employees. 

If you have any questions contact Cora Dupois, Co-operative Program Coordinator at  204-571-7848 or dupuisc@brandonu.ca.

A New Day

A New Day 

By Moses Aisida

If you took a walk within the university in early April last year, the ambiance of uncertainty that lingered was visible on the students' faces. The news of COVID-19's rapid rise had enforced caution in our habits. This caution had become fear, and fear had conceived panic. You could tell, by looking at the expressions of worry on the faces of lecturers, the divide that physical distancing brewed, and the questions that escaped the lips of every single member of the university. We had gotten to a time where we had to stay apart to stay alive. This led to a suspension of in-person classes or activities, and subsequently, an entire session of virtual meetings for virtually everything.

About a year and a half later, and a series of topsy-turvy COVID-19 restrictions, the university is back to in-person learning for the most part. Yet, as one wanders the halls this new week, the masks on the faces of students and staff struggle to conceal the look of uncertainty in their eyes – perhaps the same look that was visible last year. Even after the staggered re-opening of activities in Brandon, the enemy still lurks around donning multiple identities referred to as variants. It appears that COVID-19’s hold has reduced slowly in the province, yet, one must remember that this is one virus that never shudders at the appearance of a fight. A fact that might be chiefly responsible for the cautious ambiance that greets you as you step into the university building.

From the signs on the walls to the painted arrows that lay on the ground and the several restricted-personnel numbers on the classroom doors, it is safe to say we are not fully back to normal – not yet. Underneath all the walk-on-broken-glass attitude, one can faintly smell enthusiasm and relief. For many, the thought of physical learning with classmates or friends once again is euphoric and encouraging. While for some, the mixed feelings still abound as they struggle to mix enthusiasm and safety in a familiar but atypical learning environment. It remains a mystery, what the new term brings, and how students and staff will adapt to the dynamism of COVID-19.  One thing is clear, this is the beginning of a new day,  and I, like many others, am eager to see what is in store for us.

There is No ‘Normal’ as We knew it

There is No ‘Normal’ as We knew it

By Ronnie Kayla Neiman

A discussion that is becoming quite common lately is talk of going back to normal or creating a new normal or making the world normal again. It may be a cynical point or somewhat pessimistic to state that there is no such thing as going back to normal because that normal no longer exists. 

More than a year ago, the world as we knew it changed. A virus was sweeping across the world. People just saw it as another virus, like the flu or H1N1. Something that made people sick but was rarely if ever even deadly. COVID-19 was just another virus to us. It came into our country and began to seriously harm people infected. In an attempt to curb the most deadly aspect of the virus, our prime minister and provincial premiers imitated quarantine. We were locked down. 

Schools were closed down and teachers, professors and students rushed to create a stable online distance learning to continue classes. Many retail businesses and restaurants closed down, only open to delivery. Some restaurants and other businesses closed permanently. People couldn't go to the park, the winter and summer fairs were cancelled. We thought it would be over soon, maybe a month, maybe six months. We didn't expect it to last more than a year. That was when our normal was completely altered. 

Another winter and summer fair cancelled. Some restaurants opened back up to the public. Some parks reopened. Though with some major restrictions. Schools have improved the online learning system, though many still struggle with the different types of learning. The Quill also had to adjust to this new world state. We would publish a print copy of each issue of the newspaper and distribute them throughout Brandon University campus bit that changed with campus lockdown. It was also a question of safety for the students who distributed. We moved to a completely online platform and it may stay that way for the time being. It would be good to go back to print issues as well as continuing the online aspect of the student newspaper. However the campus lockdown would need to be lifted and students back to being at the school for the distribution to make sense. It could be that the Quill has a new normal as well. It has it's good and bad points but it's a matter of keeping people as safe as possible.

The world has changed. We have changed in the way we have approached certain situations. Some places have decided to completely change how they do things because of the working from home aspect of the pandemic quarantine. The economy has also greatly suffered during the pandemic due to businesses closing, people being laid off due to restrictions, and increase in students fees at universities. It has been something that has made things even more difficult. It has made going back to some sort of normal more difficult because everything has changed so much. That normal is gone forever. Now we just need to readjust our lives and figure out how we turn this chaotic time into something better, heal from it and create a new normal.

Social Battery in Quarantine

Social Battery in Quarantine 

By: Mallory Johnson 

The term social battery is a metaphor for a person's extent to mingle with groups of people in one setting. It is an introvert's way of describing their anxiety of having to interact with large crowds. I am an introvert and I got used to having a lot of time alone in my dorm before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Due to quarantine, I am not alone as much as I want to be and have become used to being. Throughout the day, my social battery goes down, and then when I am up late on my phone by myself it recharges - it is like I am a cell phone. Unlike extroverts, I need time alone to recharge. If I want to be alone, I tend to go to my bedroom. My parents have both been working at home since the middle of March, and school was moved online. My parents going golfing after work gives me time to be alone. Having the entire house to myself is a lot different than being alone in my room. I have sensory processing issues, and because of these issues, loud conversations, music, and noises in general make me want to escape and go to my room. Listening to music in headphones can help, as it helps drown out some of the noise and gives me some control because I can choose the music. Sometimes I just need a moment in a bathroom to collect myself. Listening to music in headphones helps, because it drowns out unwanted noise and gives me control of what I am hearing. This mainly helps when I am in public. In some situations at home, all I need to do is go to another room to collect myself and recharge, just a little. There’s a few nights that come to mind, for example card games with cousins, although jammed packed full of fun and good times, drain my social battery pretty fast. Quarantine has provided some impromptu teaching/learning opportunities to learn about introverts - suggesting that quarantine life is a choice introverts make and a challenging time for extroverts. No matter how your social battery works, I hope you find the balance in your summer to stay charged.

Easter Celebrations During a Pandemic

Easter Celebrations During a Pandemic

By: Maria Garcia Manzano

Photo Credits: Google Images

This year Easter will look a little different. With the current public health guidelines set to expire on March, 25th revision is underway. However, we can expect household gathering rules to remain. The only visible change done to the guidelines may be about theaters and casinos opening at a limited capacity. As a result, Easter will be different, and celebrations may be limited to within your household and designated visitors, but this does not mean you and your loved ones cannot still enjoy the holiday. Here are six different ideas you can do with your household and designated visitors.

1. Rethink Easter baskets and gifts.

   The pandemic has taken a financial toll on everyone, and perhaps this year, giving out overflowing waster baskets may not be possible. So instead of filling it up with store-bought treats, pull out a cupcake, muffin, or cookie recipe and fill them with homemade sweets.

2. Order in for Easter lunch or dinner.

   Pre-pandemic Easter lunch and dinner usually took place at a family member's house, and everybody arrived and celebrated together. This cannot be the case this year, and instead of worrying about what to cook and stressing out, order takeout. Support local businesses and call around to see which restaurants are open on Easter Sunday and if they are offering takeout services. Brandon has a variety of delicious restaurants.

3. Focus on small-scale Easter games.

   A bunny hop race or Easter egg toss may not be possible this year if you don't have the supplies, numbers, or space (or all three). Focus on games—beyond the egg hunt—your household can play together, such as guess the number of jelly beans or Easter egg basketball, even if there are only two of you in the house. Furthermore, you can also bring out your board games and enjoy some friendly competition.

4. Have a Picnic!

   This last week, the weather has been beautiful, and if you don't want to stay cooped up at home, and weather permitting, go out and have a picnic. The Discovery Centre is one of my favorite places to go for picnics. Pack up some sandwiches or pick up some subway and head down with a picnic blanket, some snacks, and enjoy yourself. 

5. Small egg hunts are the way to go.

   Whether you have children in your household or only university students, the idea of looking for chocolate treats is appealing. Therefore, whether you live in a house or an apartment, buy some chocolate treats from Dollarama and hide them. Get another person to hide some goodies for you and then have a race to see who finds the most chocolate. 

6. Adjust your expectations for Church services.

   If your Easter celebration includes a religious component, it may be different from prior years. There are limits on gatherings, and many congregations have adopted their restrictions to keep their members safe. If your church does hold a service, consider if attending is the safest option for you and your family (and others attending). You can stay connected with your church on Easter by checking to see if it's hosting a digital service: Many religious organizations have been offering online services, so do a little research online to find one you can stream.

Spring & Summer Courses Being Offered

Spring & Summer Courses Being Offered

By Cedric Bell

Photo Credit: brandonu.ca 

The BU Senate announced the courses that would be offered over the spring and summer sessions, with registration for these courses having opened on march 8th. These courses can be looked at and registered for on the BU website in the 2021 spring/summer registration guide. The announcement of these courses is especially significant because the previous spring/summer session occurred right at the start of the COVID pandemic, and as a result had in person courses cancelled or switched to online delivery.

This year’s spring/summer session seems to have more courses being offered because of the extra time to prepare that the school has had. The spring courses on offer include classes in sociology, history, politics, geology, nursing, philosophy, as well as offering graduate courses, co-op courses and work experience terms. There are less courses being offered in the summer, but still a good amount to choose from in religion, gender, education, anthropology, english and history courses.

These courses are mostly being delivered online, with some containing in person requirements. They are being delivered in online synchronous, online asynchronous, and online blend formats. Online synchronous classes occur online and have regular meeting times, while asynchronous classes don’t have set meeting times. Blend courses contain a mix of online instruction and on campus instruction when necessary.

The spring session runs from May 3rd - June 17th in two separate terms, and the summer session will run from July 5th - Aug 23rd, also in two separate terms. Registration is already open, so if you’re interested, give it a look here: https://www.brandonu.ca/registration/2021-spring-summer-session/

Amazing SciFi Shows That Are Still Great To Binge Watch

Amazing SciFi Shows That Are Still Great To Binge Watch

By Ronnie Kayla Neiman

Science Fiction is an amazing genre. It is often called “sci-fi,” and it is a fiction genre where the content is imaginative but based on some degree of scientific realism. It relies heavily on scientific facts, theories, and principles as support for its settings, characters, themes, and plot-lines, making it different from fantasy.

Several SciFi shows that range from a few episodes to show’s success science fiction seems to bring out such an intense fanbase, no matter the show’s success on networks. An excellent example of that is Firefly which lasted only 14 episodes but was so popular with fans that it received its movie years later. Star Trek also has many series, and each had its range of success with the fanbase. The original series lasted only three seasons but is very popular and celebrated sixty years after it first aired.

Image Credit: wall.alphacoders.com 

1.Stargate SG1

A show that followed a low-budget film from 1994 simply titled; Stargate, which starred Kurt Russel, and James Spader. A movie where a ring-like object nearly two stories tall was found in Egypt and allowed an air force team accompanied by an archeologist to another planet inhabited by humans lorded over by an alien species that looked human on the outside. The show changed the casting but kept the original premise of other-worldly travel through a wormhole, saving humans and other species from a race of aliens that portrayed themselves as gods. The series follows a team called SG1, the primary team for the Stargate program, as they travel to other worlds, make allies and fight their enemies. 

The team remains essentially the same for the entire ten seasons of the show, though lead Richard Dean Anderson left at the end of season eight but continued to make guest appearances for the rest of the series and one of the movies that followed. 

The series lasted ten seasons and had two movies and two spin-off series.

Image Credit: Creative Commons 

2.Stargate Atlantis

Stargate Atlantis is the first spin-off series related to Stargate SG1. This show was initially supposed to follow right after Stargate SG1 as a series, but the other show continued, and Atlantis aired simultaneously with the last few seasons of SG1.

This show followed the primary team of Atlantis. It focused on running the City of Atlantis, a technologically advanced city designed to sit on the surface of a massive body of water with the ability to sink under the surface would also function as an enormous spaceship.

This series only lasted five seasons and sadly had no movie to follow, though a third series, Stargate Universe, followed the year after the cancellation of Atlantis. It was much less successful than SG1 and Atlantis.

Image Credit: art.alphacoders.com 

3.Battlestar Galatica (2003)

Battlestar Galactica was remade from its original series that aired in 1978. The show was remade shortly after the horrible events of 9/11. This show focused on many political, economic, and human rights issues of a group of people trying their hardest to keep their species alive while being chased by the enemy that destroyed their colonies. Battlestar Galactica is a three-hour miniseries starring Edward James Olmos and Mary McDonnell with an ensemble cast.

The series follows immediately after the destruction of the Twelve Colonies of Kobol by the Cylons, a race of mechanical beings that developed the ability to have human-like Cylons. The survivors of humanity search for their original home, Earth, while being chased by the Cylons and dealing with numerous issues that plague the fleet. 

The pilot was a two-part mini-series followed by four more seasons and two prequel movies titled Razor and The Plan. This series is placed on many most-watched lists because of the issues the show dealt with, including abortion, domestic terrorism, and election stealing. It received large amounts of awards for its special effects, storytelling, and acting.

Image Credit: wallpaperaccess.com 

4.Star Trek: The Next Generation

This series was the spin-off to the original Star Trek series, though it was over twenty years after the Original Series aired. As with the original Star Trek, TNG was still very much about exploration, "boldly going where no one has gone before.” Similarly, the plots captured the adventures of the crew of a starship named the USS Enterprise-D.

One hundred seventy-eight episodes produced over seven seasons, making it the longest-running Star Trek series to date. The crew’s adventures continued onto the big screen in four movies.

Image Credit: wallpaper-house.com 

5.Star Trek: Voyager

This star trek series was aired when Star Trek Deep Space Nine was half-way through their series, though finished years after that series had finished. Voyager was the third spin-off to the Original Series. Star Trek: Voyager (VOY) focuses on the 24th-century adventures of Captain Kathryn Janeway and her crew aboard the U.S.S. Voyager. Voyager’s team combines forces with the staff of a destroyed Maquis ship to find their way home. Stranded over seventy thousand light-years from Earth, the crew tries to make the journey home while also adhering to the doctrine of exploration that Starfleet prides itself on. 

Due to its great distance from Federation space, the Delta Quadrant is unexplored by Starfleet, and Voyager is truly going where no human has gone before. Voyager is fast and powerful and can land on a planet’s surface. It is one of the most technologically advanced vessels in Starfleet, utilizing computer circuitry that incorporates bio-neural circuitry. 

Voyager aired 172 episodes over seven seasons from 1995 until 2001. While it didn't run for as many episodes as TNG did, Voyager discovered numerous new alien species and was better balanced with its gender ratio, with a female lead and several strong supporting female characters. 

Image Credit: wall.alphacoders.com 

6.Warehouse 13

A unique series is considered Science Fiction, but it is also described as a dramatic comedy and supernatural. The series follows U.S. Secret Service Agents Myka Bering and Pete Lattimer when assigned to the secretive Warehouse 13 for supernatural artifacts.  As they go about their assignments to retrieve missing artifacts and investigate reports of new ones, they come to understand the importance of what they are doing.

It is somewhat of a short-lived series with six seasons, but only 12 episodes in season 1, 13 in both seasons 2 and 3. Season 4 was its most extended season with twenty episodes and just six episodes in its fifth and final season. 

 These are only six possibilities of different Science Fiction shows to watch. There is always more to find, more to watch, and many more to love. As Warehouse 13 is described, "Welcome to Endless Wonder."