Horizons September 2008

10 Best ever Golf Classic Breaks Jinx

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The renewing of old friendships and revisiting of old memories at the OCAA reunion

Olds College Staffer Wins at Spruce Meadows

Serving our community of students, alumni & friends

Smiling Success!

Two happy grads showing their success to the world. Grads gathered to celebrate together on June 21st 2008.

Congrats Students!

Story on Page 3

Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Olds College 4500 - 50th Street Olds, Alberta T4H 1R6

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40010029

Sept 2008

EXPLORE

A World of Choices

There will be arborists climbing in the trees, animals in the classroom and the campus looking its best for hundreds of smiling, visiting faces on Friday, October 17.

“Discovery Day is a great way to showcase our campus, programs and staff,” says Bobby-Joe Rovensky, Student Enrolment Inquiry Administrator and Site Visit Coordinator, who is organizing this annual student recruitment event for Olds College. “Students get to see what we do first-hand, they really see what is happening and what we offer. Often students will come with the idea of taking a particular program, but after touring the campus or sitting in on a class, they find out they’re more interested in one of our other programs. Prospective students are often surprised by the variety of programs we offer and what a great campus this is.”

Usually between 300 and 400 students come from all over Alberta, and there are registrants coming from Saskatchewan and even from as far away as Ontario. Final registration takes place between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m. on Discovery Day and then there are campus tours till noon. Participants are treated to a free lunch and welcome speeches from OCSA and College spokespeople. After lunch prospective students get to sit in on two different classes, an opportunity to really see what Olds College students do. After three there’s a final get together where students have a chance to win prizes. By 4:00 p.m they’re heading home for the weekend.

“We encourage prospective students to fill out an application on Discovery Day,” says Rovensky, herself an Olds College graduate. “Students who do fill out an application have their names entered in a draw for prizes from the bookstore.

Discovery Day, along with our annual Open House in the spring, is one of our major recruiting events and this year’s is shaping up as one of the best ever.”

Discovery Day OCTOBER 17, 2008 9:00 – 10:00 10:00 – 12:00 12:00 – 12:45 1:00 – 2:45

3:00

• Welcome (Gymnasium) • Guided Campus Tour • Complimentary Lunch (Gymnasium) • Classroom Shadowing & Farm Tours • Wrap-up, Farewell, and Prize Draws (Gymnasium)

Volume 2, Number 3 Publication mail agreement: 40010029

Submissions may be edited for content and length.

Publisher, Jordan Cleland, VP, Advancement

For Information or to Register

Design: Myriah Barr, Graphic Design and Multimedia Coordinator

ISIT • www.oldscollege.ca/discovery day V CALL • 403-507-7711 or 1-800-661-6537

Print: Calgary Colorpress

Let ter from t he Edit or

Off the record

I consider myself lucky. I’m in the fortunate position of interviewing people and transcribing their stories. My favourite Olds College story revolves around a young African tailor, who studied in the fashion lab last Spring. I wrote briefly of his plight in the last issue of Horizons (May 2008). Joseph is a tailoring instructor back home in Rwanda, and he has been faithfully saving a portion of his $74 per month salary, in order to build his own home in the community of Kivumu, where a typical house costs around $1,000 to construct.

My relationship with Joseph grew beyond the superficial question and answer format of our initial interview. Once a week, he’d visit me en route to his English class. He’d maneuver himself through the maze of hallways into my

2 Sept 2008

Olds College Horizons is published four times per year by the Office of Advancement. We welcome comments, letters and suggestions for stories. Please email Shannon Northey SNorthey@oldscollege.ca fax 403-556-4704 or write 4500-50 Street, Olds, Alberta, T4H 1R6

office, and he’d sit with me and chat about his weekend activities. He was always smiling. His grasp of the English language was incredible, and his soft-spoken demeanour belied the strength of character within.

A peculiar thing happened after Joseph’s story was published in Horizons and in the local papers. My phone started ringing and I began to receive e-mails.

Plain white envelopes containing cheques were delivered to my office, with funds for Joseph’s house project. Through the goodness of their hearts, and without any kind of plea or formal request, people (and that means you, Reader!) were freely donating money to Joseph, and most of them didn’t want any sort of public recognition for it! At last count, over $1,000 was collected for Joseph.

From the bottom of my heart, and on behalf of Joseph, I want to say thank you so much to these generous souls. Know that you have brightened the life of a young man who was afflicted with polio and walks with canes; a man whose father died when he was three years old; a man whose Tutsi mother raised four children on her own, until she was killed in the 1994 massacre.

These are the stories worth writing.

Please continue to keep in touch and remember to send in your story suggestions. Your stories are the bread and butter of Horizons. Without you, Horizons would not exist.

os, s! i d A iend

Fr

Shaelyn High Class Valedictorian

Radiant smiles replaced studious stares on June 21, as 260 Olds College graduates walked onstage at the Olds Sportsplex to receive their certificates, diplomas and degrees. Hundreds of family members and friends cheered and applauded, as each graduate’s name was called out, during the 92nd convocation ceremony in the history of Olds College.

Keynote speaker and Olds College Alumnus, Leona Dargis delivered her inspirational message, recalling her parents’ words of advice.

“Even though my sisters and I had our days of picking rocks by hand in the fields, Mom and Dad always ensured us that the work we were doing made a difference at the end of the day. Because one less rock in the field would mean the chance for one less breakdown, which in turn, saved the farm time and money.”

Shaelyn High, class valedictorian, urged her fellow grads to take risks and to enjoy the wonderful, unexpected moments that life offers. She graduated with Distinction from the Land & Water Resources Program, with a major in Land Reclamation.

OCSA President Byron Thompson

Leona Dargis, Keynote speaker

Honoured guests included the Olds College Board of Governors, Town of Olds Mayor Judy Dahl, Superintendent of Chinook’s Edge School Division #73 Jim Gibbons and the Honourable Bob Mills, Member of Parliament for Red Deer.

The Minister of Advanced Education and Technology, the Honourable Douglas A. Horner, graciously accepted his Honourary Degree, a Bachelor of Applied Science in Agribusiness. “I’m honoured to be associated with Olds College,” he said. “I’m very honoured to receive this degree.”

Olds College President Dr. H. J. (Tom) Thompson concluded the ceremony with his closing remarks. “Graduates, your contribution to this world will be measured by the ways and means by which you share. It will not be measured by the money you earn or the accolades you receive.

Our hopes, our dreams and our aspirations go with you today.”

Awards: • Governor General’s Academic Collegiate Bronze Medal, presented to Aden David Stewart; • Alumni Association Presidential Service Award, presented to Byron Thompson; • Alumni Association Proficiency Graduation Prize, presented to Christina Zilinski and Laura Hutton; • Olds College Faculty Association Outstanding Student Award, presented to Dwayne Smith; • Olds College Turfgrass Club Scholarship, presented to Dwayne Routliffe and Spencer Brown; • Dr. Scott Rairdan Memorial Scholarship, presented to Joyce Horbay; • John Deere Ag. Tech. Graduation Scholarship, presented to Nathan Benjamin.

Honourary Degree Recipient Honourable Douglas A. Horner, Dwayne Smith Outstanding Student Award

Sept 2008 3

Typically, nearly 400 people from around the world make plans to attend the Championships. “That would include 60 participants and 30 world Board Members,” McDonald added. “During the 1986 Championships held at Olds College, there were seven Greyhound buses filled with visitors who came for the event.”

The Canadian Ploughing Organization was founded in 1955 to preserve the art and skill of competitive plowing in Canada. “The organization also permits Canadians to compete at the world level. It also promotes good soil stewardship,” McDonald said.

“May a furrow of peace encircle the world.” (inscription of Cairn of Peace installed during the 1986 World Plowing Championships held at Olds College) On June 30, Olds College and the Canadian Plowing Organization (CPO) entered into an agreement, formally announcing that the 2013 World Ploughing Championships will be hosted by Olds College, on campus grounds.

“We at Olds College are excited to host such a prestigious global event during the year of our Centennial,” said Dr. H. J. (Tom) Thompson, President and CEO of Olds College. “This is an event which honours our heritage and aligns with our College’s vision.”

The signed agreement is a requisite step, in order to confirm the 2013 event.

The paperwork was delivered to the 2008 World Ploughing Championships held in Austria in August. “This is a great opportunity for Canada and Olds College. By incorporating this championship with the Centennial at Olds College, it will become a great global and agricultural event,” said Lynn McDonald, President of the Canadian Plowing Organization.

Tree climbers have been scaling new heights at Olds College.

McDonald noted that because plowing relates to earth and the growing of crops, there is an educational component. “Our young people don’t realize where their food comes from, and an event like this helps to inform them.”

A cairn of peace was erected in front of the Alumni Centre at Olds College during the 1986 championships. Rocks from competing countries were implanted in it, with each country’s name engraved in them. “Ploughing of the soil is a peace symbol,” McDonald said.

The 10 day event at Olds College is tentatively scheduled for July 19-28, 2013, with the competitions occurring on July 27 and 28. The Canadian Plowing Organization is an affiliate of the World Ploughing Organization.

The 2013 event would mark its 60th championship.

Fast Facts: The Canadian Plowing Championships consist of three national plowing championship contests, including: • Senior Plowing Championship with conventional plows; • Senior Plowing Championship with reversible plows; • Junior Plowing Championship with conventional plows.

The winner of the two senior events qualify to compete in the next World Ploughing Championships. The junior winner receives a scholarship from Olds College, valued at more than $3,000.00.

“The purpose of the event is to bring climbing arborists together from across the Canadian Prairie to display their skills, expertise and safe work-practices to the public,” says Laurie Newsham, organizing committee chair and arboriculture instructor at the College.

“Both the women’s champion and the men’s champion went on to represent the Society at the International Championship held this year in St. Louis, Missouri in July.”

Seven competition events were held on the green space and in the trees between Duncan Marshall Place and Frank Grisdale Hall on campus. “In the Work Climb, the climber must complete five different tasks throughout the tree canopy that are a common part of the workday in a tree,” he added. “They must do this as fast and as safely as they can. Typically, it takes up to 10 exciting minutes to complete.”

The crowd-pleasing Aerial Rescue event involved the assessment of an injured climber (a lifelike mannequin). “The competing climber follows high angle emergency protocols and then accesses the injured climber in order to safely lower him to the ground,” said Newsham. “This is an exciting event because so few emergency services are trained in extricating casualties from within tree canopies. “Good arborists practice emergency response/aerial rescue regularly in order to be ready if such a situation occurs.”

From May 30 to June 1, the School of Horticulture’s Arboriculture program hosted the International Society of Arboriculture Prairie Chapter 2008 Tree Climbing Championship (TCC).

Charlene Scott, Women’s Division Champion, Ken Moore, Men’s Division Champion and Laurie Newsham, Chair of the Championship.

Other competitions included the Belayed Speed Climb and the Footlock Event. “The judges look for the finesse and fluid movement of the climber in the tree,” he added. Charlene Scott is an Olds College grad who majored in Arboriculture (2007). She was one of the many featured competitors this weekend.

“I’ve been preparing for the event by practicing the various skills required for the competition,” she said. “But I also use this weekend as a way to meet fellow arborists in the industry and to learn from them.” As well, she views the weekend’s events as a great opportunity to create awareness of arboriculture. “Maybe it will inspire a few individuals to pursue a career in the field themselves,” she said.

The Arboriculture program at Olds College has a high percentage of hands-on training.

“Every graduate from our program has the opportunity to acquire the skills necessary to compete successfully in this championship,” said Newsham. “The skills required for every event are discussed and presented in class, as well as practiced and performed.”

Arboriculture is a growing industry, he noted. “Our graduates have an abundance of job opportunities to choose from,” he said. But he was quick to point out that the ability to climb trees is only part of the job description. “An arborist must understand soil, water and plant relationships,” he said. “They must understand the role of insects in the urban forest.

Our graduates learn these things.”

4 Sept 2008

Garfield Weston Recipients Olds College is proud to announce three Garfield Weston Merit Scholarship recipients this year, the award winners are Hilary Omichinski, Andrew Exelby and Daniel Chappell.

Hilary Omichinski, who started her first year in Fashion Apparel Technology, Fashion Apparel major, this September, won a National Entrance Award. Every year the W. Garfield Weston Foundation accepts applications from across Canada for only 25 National Entrance Awards to students entering their first year of post-secondary education.

Andrew Exelby, who recently started his first year of the Landscape Management major in Ornamental Horticulture, received a Garfield Weston Regional Award, one of 18 handed out annually by the Foundation.

The Foundation also awards 58 Upper-Year Awards to students entering second year. Daniel Chappell, entering his second year of the Nursery/Field Production major of Production Horticulture, was nominated for and was successful in receiving one of the 2008 awards.

The Garfield Weston Merit Scholarship for Colleges Awards Program, initiated in 1998, seeks to identify, recognize and award well-rounded, outstanding college students who show a strong commitment to their field of study and are interested in making positive contributions to their communities.

Alberta’s Minister of Environment toured environmental initiatives at Olds College in June The Honourable Rob Renner visited with Olds College staff on various projects which support the Premier’s initiative of ensuring Alberta’s resources are developed in an environmentally sustainable way.

The Minister toured the Botanic Gardens, Landscape Pavilion, Wetlands, Compost Centre, and Biodiesel Facility at the College.

Jordan Cleland, Vice-President of Advancement at Olds College, presented the Minister and his staff with the opportunity to tour the College. “We are looking to share our vision of an environmentally sustainable future with the Minister through the projects and curriculum we have initiated at the

College,” said Cleland. “We know what’s in the Minister’s ‘Mandate Letter’ from the Premier, and we approached the opportunity with Minister Renner from the perspective of not just how the Ministry could help Olds College, but by showcasing how the things we are doing could help him in achieving his mandate.”

The Minister commented favourably on the College’s advancements. “It’s encouraging to see Alberta’s post-secondary institutions take a leadership role in environmental sustainability,” says Renner.

“Greening your own operations, as well as providing academic programming that contributes to environmental sustainability, represent important steps towards teaching Alberta’s next generation about our responsibility to be good environmental stewards. You have plenty to be proud of at Olds College--keep up the good work!”

Written by: Carien Vandenberg, Research Technician, Olds College School of Innovation

Sept 2008 5

First Community Engagement Site Council Formed in Cremona

Banking On Success!

A diverse group of residents from the Cremona area have stepped up to form a Council which will lead the development of that area’s Community Engagement Site.

Cremona is the first of 12 Community Engagement Sites that will be formed throughout Central Alberta in communities served by the Community Learning Campus. The Community Engagement Sites (CES) will provide a close-to-home location for people of all ages to access learning and business tools.

Some people may use the CES to take a class for pleasure, while others might build their professional skills through post-secondary courses for credit. Many people will use the SuperNet to support business applications. The role of the CES Council will be to create a local priority of programming and an approach to services, so that residents can best benefit from the array of learning and business opportunities provided through each CES.

Bankers strolled along the bridges and pathways leading to the Landscape Pavilion at Olds College in May, on their way to present another $100,000 donation toward the project.

“Education is a fundamental plank in the Bank of Montreal’s internal practices,” said Wes Taylor, Vice President for the Bank of Montreal’s South, Central, North Alberta and North West Territories region. “Because Olds College provides world-recognized expertise and instruction, BMO has a unique opportunity to be part of something very special.”

This is the second gift that BMO has provided toward the Landscape Pavilion. The first $100,000 was presented in 1997.

“Our relationship with the BMO Financial Group spans several decades,” said Jordan Cleland, Vice President of Advancement at Olds College. “This gift will enable Olds College to increase capacity to provide enhanced training for students enrolled within horticulture programming and create increased opportunities to partner with industry to provide industry-specific training.”

BMO’s gift will be directed toward the connecting link that will unite the greenhouses with the Landscape Pavilion facilities.

“The connecting link will become the year-round gateway for students to safely access our internationally unique applied learning environment,” said Carole Calenso-Fair, Chair of the School of Horticulture and Geo Spatial Technology at Olds College. “This donation brings us much closer to realizing our ultimate vision of a fully integrated learning facility dedicated to developing the hands-on skills and technical competence of our graduates.”

“The horticulture industry and staff of Olds College are grateful for the ongoing support of BMO in helping us help students to make their dream careers come true.”

The donation will be distributed in $20,000 increments over the next five years.

6 May 2008

“The entire Council is enthusiastic about the CES and the endless places we can go with this in our community,” said Tammi Henki, a resident of Water Valley. “It feels like a very progressive group that is prepared to hit the ground running, because we all believe the CES will make a huge impact in this community.”

The eight-member Cremona CES Council includes representatives from the local school, local health agencies, the library, community groups, the business community, and Village Council. Henki provides yoga instruction, is a small business owner and has children in the local school. She feels each aspect of the community will be enhanced through the CES. “This area is becoming a sort of bedroom business community, where many local residents work here but are affiliated with a larger business in the city. It costs my husband $38 to drive to Calgary each time he needs to meet with his business colleagues, for instance. What if he could meet here at the CES and work on a quote through SMART technology, saving the company money while accomplishing the same thing.

“And with my yoga classes, I am even thinking that I could service a larger community by providing instruction through the CES. The people who don’t want to travel in the winter, or seniors who find it difficult to leave their homes, could still access my classes and not compromise their health routine.

With the price of gas, many people will be looking to the CES for many different services.”

As they work to establish the CES, the Council is also looking to hire a part time Cremona CES Program Coordinator in August. For a full listing of the Cremona CES Council, or for details on future Community Engagement Sites, visit www. communitylearningcampus.ca. This project is funded through Rural Alberta’s Development Fund.

“Everyone is very excited with this first Council being formed,” said Allan Tarnoczi, Community Engagement Site Project Manager. “One of the amazing things with this group is the wide range of people and interests represented. I think the area of Cremona will be well-served by this Council and that this CES site will benefit all residents of the community.”

Kiwanis Radiothon On August 20, representatives from the Olds Kiwanis Club hosted a Radiothon to encourage people to sponsor a theatre seat within the Community Learning Campus (CLC).

“Our community neighbours in the Kiwanis Club are helping not just Olds College, but all of the partners in the CLC,” said Jordan Cleland, Vice President of Advancement at Olds College. “This event represents part

Neale Dowson and his dog Willie O’Toole enjoyed the pancake breakfast during the morning portion of the Kiwanis Radiothon

of the final fundraising effort for the CLC building costs.”

Klippenstein, Senior Development Officer at Olds College. “Thanks to everyone.”

Sponsorship of a seat entitles the purchaser to naming rights of that seat (you sponsor it, but do not own it).

The success of the Radiothon brought the total number of sold seats to 384, with only 35 left.

Olds Kiwanis hosted a morning pancake breakfast and an afternoon hot dog roast, to encouraging people to come to the event.

Seats are going fast and only seats on the lower level remain at $500.00 each. Anyone interested in purchasing a seat should get in touch with Carol Johnson of the Kiwanis Club of Olds at 403-507-8717.

“We sold 47 seats during the event, for a grand campaign total of $156,132.86,” said Debra

Jackie and Ryan Vammen purchased a theatre seat from Kiwanis President Rita Thompson. Ryan will be among the first students to move into the Community Learning Campus during his grade 9 year

Town of Olds Mayor Judy Dahl joked on air with radio host, Dan Butler

Full steam ahead on other CLC construction Housing three gymnasiums, the Health and Wellness Facility, offices of Alberta Children’s Services, and a day-minding facility, the core Olds High School on the Community Learning Campus is no ordinary high school. Grand as the CLC facilities are; however, the focus of the planning has always been on programming.

Tour of the Fine Arts Centre Core High School Construction

“A focus on creating opportunities for students has always been at the centre of our conversations, and talk of how the facilities could support that vision followed from there,” said Dot Negropontes, CLC Executive Director.

Sept 2008 7

ALUMNI REVIEW Alumni Corner

The 2008 edition of the Olds College Alumni Reunion was a resounding success with renewing of old friendships and revisiting of old memories. Many thanks to all the volunteers who gave of their time and energy to ensure a great experience for all.

Congratulations to Dr. Victor E. Valli on his induction into the Olds College Hall of Fame, a well-deserved honour for a true scholar and gentleman.

Olds College Alumni Association Board

It has been a privilege to serve the past year as vice-president of the Olds College Alumni Association (OCAA), riding “shotgun” with Sandy MacKinnon-Jahn. Sandy has provided stellar leadership to

the OCAA Board of Dorectors for the past two years, and for that, we are truly grateful. Thank you so much, Sandy!! Our prayer for you is for restoration of your health and our hope is that we will see your smiling face on campus soon.

A new OCAA Board of Directors Executive will have been chosen by the time this page goes to print. To the retiring board members, thank you for all your time and energy. To our newly nominated members, welcome and thank you.

We must all strive for an active and meaningful alumni association.

Sincerely, Charles Watson Vice President Olds College Alumni Association

of Directors 2007-2008 President Sandra MacKinnon-Jahn ‘86 Vice President Charles Watson ‘61 Past President Doreen Morton ‘50 Honourary President Irene Miller ‘55 Treasurer Melody Cavin, College Staff Secretary Laurinda Parkinson ‘69 Directors Jim Burns ‘68 Bryan Dowell ’61 Edith Edge ‘51 Christy Hambly ‘98 John Perry ‘63 Ed Shaw ’71 OCSA Rep Laura Hutton Faculty Rep Heather Taylor Olds College President and CEO Dr. H.J. (Tom) Thompson

Memorials Mrs. Stella Garner Home Economics 2 N 1 Program 1935 Mrs. Mary Stringham Russell Home Economics 2 N 1 Program 1939 Ernest Smith Class of 1971

The Alumni Board respectfully notes the passing of the following Olds College Alumni and staff, and extends its condolences to their families and friends.

To review the complete obituaries which have been forwarded to our office, please visit the Olds College Alumni section of our website at www.oldscollege.ca/alumni.

8 May 2008

Distinguished Veterinarian to the Hall of Fame Dr. Victor E. Valli, a graduate of the Olds School of Agriculture 2-in-1 program Class of 1953 was inducted into the Olds College Hall of Fame during the College’s annual Summer Reunion, held on campus July 18 -20.

He graduated at the head of the class. After graduation he returned to the family farm near Brooks and when mowing hay one August day in 1953, a shotgun he used to discourage crows accidentally fired, severing nerves in his leg, but luckily missing the main artery. A top Orthopaedic surgeon drove in from Calgary to help save his leg, and spark his interest in medicine. Although desperately injured, and forced to suffer through many operations, he survived his close call with death.

Afterwards he graduated from the Guelph Veterinary College, where he also taught, and started the Bow Valley Veterinarian Clinic in Brooks. For 11 years, he was the Dean of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Illinois and now works at Veterinary Diagnostics, a private lab in Davis, California. Besides his illustrious career in veterinary medicine and scientific research, he is a noted lecturer and author of 235 scientific articles “I’ve always loved what I do,” he said “I have learned from the encouragement I received throughout my life and I have practiced it.”

Dr. Valli, who established a bursary for Olds College students who have a physical challenge, says “All Olds College students should see this Hall of Fame award as a goal that is meaningful and achievable. I am very humbled and proud of this accomplishment. This award means that I’ve joined a very prestigious crowd.”

William Oliver Smith

William Oliver Smith of Stony Plain, a 2-in-1 class of 1938 graduate, passed away on August 19, 2008 at the age of 91.

After graduation, Smith started university in Edmonton, but left to serve in the joint Canadian/American First Special Service Force in Italy and southern France during World War II. He was wounded twice in combat.

After the war he returned to Canada and farmed in the Smithfield (Duffield) area, marrying Carol Sellhorn, a nurse, in 1949. They raised their family on a mixed farm, where they broke the land and raised beef cattle, hogs, grain and forages, and received a Farm Family Award. He was very active in the community, serving on several boards, was a leader in the local Beef 4-H club and involved with the Smithfield Gymkana Club.

He retired after 50 years of farming, moving first to Wabamun and then Stony Plain. He had very fond memories of the Olds School of Agriculture and his many friends from his time at the College and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his six children: Ernest (Livestock Production 1971), Stuart, Norma, Barbara, Louise and Ellen, and eight grandchildren. His wife Carol predeceased him in 1984.

5

Sweet Reunion Our 2008 Alumni Reunion, which took place July 18 – 20th was a great success and many old friendships were renewed, and new ones formed. On Friday evening, July 18th, Dr Ted Valli, class of ’53, was inducted into the Hall of Fame. Mr Richard Sheehan introduced Dr Valli, and gave a very entertaining visual presentation on the life and accomplishments of Dr Valli. We are most certainly proud to say that he is an Alumnus of Olds College, and very deserving of induction into our Hall of Fame.

Saturday was a very busy day with many Alumni stopping by the Registration desk to pick up their registration packages and name tags. The 50 year class, the Class of 1958, received special name tags with their yearbook photos and narrative on the front as well as a 50 Year pin. These name tags are so important because many of the alumni have not been back to the College in many years, and have not seen their classmates for almost as long. It is always so interesting to be standing in the sidelines and listening to the reminiscing and stories that are being told about “the old days at Olds College”.

The Annual General Meeting was held on Saturday morning, and our guest speaker was Mr John Winton, Board of Governors. John introduced himself as a Public Member of the Board of Governors in his third year with the Board. Business to arise out of the meeting was to amend the Bylaws to substitute the word ‘Graduate” to “Attended”, and this motion was passed. We also received 4 new nominations for the Alumni Association. Our new members are: Curtis Miller, 2003; Jerry Coen, 1958; James Murray, 1947; and Glenn Aldred, 1958. Laurinda Parkinson, 1969, was re-elected for another term on the Board. The Board has posted a job description for an alumnus who may be interested in a paid, part-time position to support the Alumni within the College setting, and provide attendance at the Museum. Anyone interested in finding out more about this position may write to the O.C. Alumni Association. It was also suggested that we start a list “Friends of the Alumni” and anyone wishing to help in some small way at various times through the year could add their name. Names can be added to this list by calling the Alumni Association at 1-800-661-6537. The complete minutes of this Annual General Meeting are available to anyone wishing a copy, by writing to the Alumni Association.

With the A.G.M. over, we were able to settle down to more interesting business and events.

Our luncheon speaker was Dot Negropontes, Executive Director of the Community Learning Campus who gave an informational talk on how the CLC will function with the College. After lunch the Alumni Association acknowledged Mr Bill Wagstaff, Class of 1931. Bill entertained us with some of his memories of O.S.A. We also acknowledged Mary (Glover) Yadernak, class of 1938, who has managed to attend many of the Reunions so faithfully over the years.

The last acknowledgement went to Eve (Allan) Keates, class of 1948. Dave Cormack, Class of ’47, introduced Eve and brought a newspaper article and photos of Eve being presented with a “Caring Canadian Award” by Gov Gen Michelle Jean at the McDougal Centre in Calgary in January, 2008.

Class of ’58

After the lunch was cleared away, the classes each had their photos taken with as many of the class mates as they could squeeze in. Some of the largest class attendances were Class of ’53 – 15; Class of ’58 – 25; Class of ’63 – 9; Class of ’68 – 18; Class of ’73 – 22 and Class of ’78 – 6. Then everyone went their separate ways on guided tours of the campus or their own tours, checked out the various Silent Auction items on display, or settled in to reminisce with old friends for the afternoon.

The Saturday evening activity started off with the serving of a superb dinner of Roast Beef, and was followed by the Grand March which all Alumni in attendance were to participate in. This was a procession that used to take place prior to Graduation Dances years ago. My recollection is that the boys were escorted by their Mothers, and the girls were escorted by their Fathers in this March.

This year we had “Mr Grand March” himself, Mr Buck Godwin, directing the March, along with Laurinda Parkinson, Reunion Chairperson. Silver & Gold played for the evenings dance and a wonderful time was had by all. An interesting side note to the evening events was the return of a treasured, Mounted Cow Skull, to be added to the memorabilia in the Museum. Ron Green, class of ’68, noticed it lying in the rubble of the Olds residence building when it was demolished and decided it was a great keepsake.

He has kept it safe all these years, and wanted to make sure it would have a good resting place in our Alumni Museum. He has been told it used to hang at the end of a hallway in the old men’s residence, but if anyone reading this article knows more about this skull and how it came to be hanging where it was, please let us know in the Alumni office or call the Museum.

All good times seem to come to an end too quickly, and Sunday morning, those attendees still remaining at the College, were called to a Worship service conducted by the Class of ’58. Then, over a delicious Wind-up Brunch, we did our last few hours of visiting and left with promises to keep closer contact with these precious friends from our youth.

Total Registrations received for this years Reunion were 234, and of this number, 157 were Alumnus. We look forward to meeting more of the Alumnus next year, and in the years to come. This annual event is one that has been treasured by many Alumni in the past and The Alumni Association Board of Directors strives to make each reunion an event that the Alumnus will remember with fond memories and look forward to returning in the future.

Respectfully submitted by Laurinda Parkinson Alumni Reunion Chairperson

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Best Ever Golf Classic Breaks Jinx Traditionally, the Olds College Fall Golf Classic takes place in rain, wind and even sleet, but this year, under sunny skies, the event was a sold-out success. The 16th Annual Fall Classic broke the jinx on the weather front, and also raised substantial funds in support of Olds College Broncos Athletics.

“We know sport is a big part of the college experience and are proud to be rebuilding our athletic teams,” said Jordan Cleland, Vice-President of Advancement at Olds College. “I was a student athlete in university and I know it taught me many life lessons that I’ve carried into my professional experiences, just as my classes did. Support for our athletics program also provides a huge boost to our recruiting and enrolment efforts.”

On September 10th, one hundred and forty-four enthusiastic, smiling golfers, ranging from the semi-pro to the hopelessly amateur, enjoyed warm temperatures and blue skies while making the rounds of the Olds Central Highlands Golf Course where they were greeted by student volunteers.

Golfers also enjoyed a complimentary breakfast, lunch and refreshments on the links as well as a fantastic prime rib dinner, silent auction and prizes galore at the wind-up banquet. Net proceeds from the event were $35,775 – a 12% increase over last years tournament.

“We’ve just begun year three of the revival of our athletic program,” said Cleland, “and the monies raised from this event will help develop our mens and womens volleyball, basketball and Futsal (that’s indoor soccer on a basketball court) teams. Sponsorship was up, with BFI Canada being the Title Sponsor this year as well as for the next two years, the silent auction was strong and volunteers from our Alumni Association are taking on a bigger role. We’re very grateful to our many supporters who golfed, sponsored the event, or both, and we know the event will continue to grow and prosper.”

Greg Lendvay, Director of Health and Wellness at Old College, added that “the Broncos are back carrying the college’s banner in intercollegiate competition. The Golf Classic is a great way to support our student athletes and enhance their academic experience with team sports and This years winners, McNally Land!

10 Sept 2008

New Digs Olds College Students’ Association (OCSA) has new offices and a multi-purpose student gathering spot called The Crossing. The OCSA had planned and saved for new facilities for years, and contributed over $1 million to be part of the new structure.

“It is so exciting to see this building come together so nicely, after so many students spent so many years working towards it,” said Christina Zilinski, OCSA President.

“We are able to plan more activities and be more visible to students, because we have this large, beautiful space. This facility is an important bridge between Olds College students and high school students, and being right next to all this amazing technology is awesome, too. Everyone is really excited about the potential of this Centre.”

The OCSA is planning several activities that will increase the connection with high school students, from mentoring opportunities and leadership training to informal brown bag lunch events.

Christina Zilinski graduated last spring with a certificate in Land Administration and is beginning her first year of a two-year diploma in Land Reclamation. “I get to spend another two years at Olds College which is great, because it’s an awesome place to be.”

New Events Coordinator Comes Home to Olds Some people just can’t stay away from Olds College and Judy Edwards is one of them. The College’s new Special Events Coordinator only started September 8th, but she’s been here before, wearing several different hats.

In 1982 she graduated from the Secretarial Arts program (now Office Administration) and accepted a job with the College. “I walked out of the classroom and into a job in the Continuing Education department, helping organize night classes. It was quite an adjustment at the time,” she said.

After a year with Continuing Ed, she moved on to Communications, where she worked for another three years before leaving the College to raise four children, help out with the family dairy business near Didsbury and run a consulting business out of her basement. As the children grew up she went back to work in oil and gas and the aviation industry and kept her consulting business going. But she jumped at the chance to return to the College as Special Events Coordinator in the Office of Advancement, where she’ll be organizing events like Gala and the Golf Classic.

“Olds College is home to me,” says Edwards. “It holds a very important part of my past and is dear to my heart. The College has changed, but it’s still a homecoming. Some people have moved on, but there are still many old friends here. I’ve never had so many hugs my first day at work.”

“I’m really looking forward to this,” she added. “Olds College has a reputation for being a solid employer and people come to work here for good reason. I’m looking forward to making new friends and contributing to a great team. Everyone is dedicated to the same goal – we’re here for the students.”

New Director of Development for Olds College A passion for education, plants and the environment, plus excellence in fund-raising, is how Ken Risi became the College’s new Director of Development.

He only landed in the Development Director’s chair (previously filled by Doug Pearce) in the Office of Advancement in May. Prior to that this Thunder Bay-born, Manitoba-transplant was with Ducks Unlimited for 17 years. His zoology degree from the University of Manitoba saw him start with DU as a biologist (one claim to fame was raising rare trumpeter swans as a gift for the Queen), working in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia and North Carolina. But he also discovered he had a gift for fund-raising with DU, and is credited with record success and innovation in gathering funds for that organization.

As to why he made the move to Olds College, he said, “This place is a gem that a lot of people don’t know about. I see coming here, as a move up to an opportunity to do something for education. This is where students learn to be a contributor to the agricultural industry and society as a whole. The College has been very successful at raising funds in the past and I plan to continue that success and expand on the traditional ways of fund-raising, as well as try some different things, maybe barn dances and cattle auctions.”

“So far, people seem to be accepting of my ideas, especially of working more closely with Alumni.

I can’t throw a stone anywhere without hitting an Olds College Alumnus,” says Risi. “It is always amazing that friends and people I meet, turn out to be college Alumni. And they are always willing to help. All we had to do was ask and they pitched in and volunteered to cook hot dogs at the recent 2008 Golf Classic. It’s a pleasure and an honour to work here and be part of this great institution.”

Sept 2008 11

Olds College Staffer Wins at Spruce Meadows

More Student Awards from Rising Endowments

Team Saddlebred was a three horse & rider combination of: Adrian Neufeld, Captain and rider Olds, Alberta Tamara Blondin, Equine Student at Olds College Lindsay MacDiarmid, Teachers assistant in Edmonton Adrian Neufeld, a carpenter with Campus Facilities and a familiar face at special events on campus, was a recent winner in the Battle of the Breeds at Spruce Meadows.

It has been a very successful year for fund-raising to help Olds College students finance their post-secondary education.

Neufeld partnered with his daughter Lindsay MacDiarmid from Edmonton, a last minute replacement, to win the American Saddlebred Trail Riding event at the annual Spruce Meadows Masters Tournament. He rode Valenfire’s Attractive Image and his daughter rode M.A.s First Diamond.

Both horses belong to Neufeld.

A recent tally in the Office of Advancement indicates just over $500,000.00 in new awards income. That includes over 60 new awards for a total of just over $110,000.00 that will be awarded to Olds College students this academic year. In many cases with endowments, the legacy and benefit of the gift will be realized for years to come.

Trail Riding is one of five events in the Battle of the Breeds and involves horse and rider traversing a series of obstacles like bridges and water hazards. “It’s a difficult event,” said Neufeld, “and demands a lot of trust and rapport between rider and horse. You can’t do well at it without a lot of experience and training.”

Ken Risi, Olds College’s new Director of Development, (see story on page 11 of Horizons), says “These are very impressive numbers that we want our supporters and Alumni, and especially our students, to see. More students than ever are benefitting from the generous donations of individuals and businesses and our success in growing our endowments also demonstrates the growing reputation and profile of the College, not to mention the hard work done by the staff of the Office of Advancement.”

While Olds College students in general benefit from this successful fund-raising, students in the following programs will directly benefit from these new awards.

“I been around horses for 46 years,” he added. “We’ve been going to the Masters for 25 years and competing for 19. We’ve won several events in that time and for five years in a row we came second overall. This time we ended up in seventh place overall. It’s a fun competition.”

There were 14 teams in competition in the Battle of the Breeds, which includes Compulsory Skills, Jeopardy Jumping, Barrel Racing and Precision Driving as well as Trail Riding.

Neufeld and his family operate Mane Attractions, a boarding stable just outside Olds, where several students board their horses. He’s worked at the College for 11 years.

Coming Events

• Graduates from the Chinooks Edge School Division entering Olds College • Agricultural Production (Beef Major) • Horticultural Programs – Greenhouse, Landscaping, etc.

• Equine Production & Breeding • Animal Health Technology • Heavy Equipment • Land & Water Resource • Land Agent • Office Administration • Veterinary Medical Reception • Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and Environmental Sciences

Bell e-learning Centre Grand Opening October 9 Discovery Day October 17 Land, Hort & AG Preview Day November 7

If you or your company have ever considered funding an award at Olds College, or would like more information about gifting, please contact the Office of Advancement toll free at 1-800-661-6537.

Animals, Admin & Fashion Preview Day November 28

We’d like to hear from you!

Please send us your comments, stories or suggestions for future articles. Let us know how we’re doing!

Olds College Horizons is published four times per year by the Office of Advancement.

Please email SNorthey@oldscollege.ca, fax (403) 556-4704 or write 4500-50 Street Olds, Alberta T4H 1R6.

Be kind to the environment!

Bookstore Annual Christmas Sale December 5 Growing the Legacy Gala March 13, 2009 Open House April 4, 2009 For updates or more information, please visit www.oldscollege.ca

Check out www.oldscollege.ca for more details on these and other Olds College stories.

When you have finished reading this issue of Olds College Horizons, please pass it along to a friend or recycle it. Thank you.

12 Sept 2008