Like any typical mother, Helenka Bernard from Eston was looking for some kind of interesting activity for her children, that would get them out of the house for a while. So when Helenka found the facebook page for Cobler’s Country Cove in Gull Lake, she was excited.
“It was something for the kids to do, and it’s not that far away,” she said. So off she and her husband and two sons went on an adventure to Cobler’s Country Cove,
which is set up as an elaborate petting zoo.
While they were there Helenka, who is a talented photographer, took photos, a video and got some reviews for the new business venture. “We were going there anyway,” Helenka said.
Groups of five can book an hour-long appointment at the Cove, and are given a bucket of food to feed the animals.
“Once the animals see you with the bucket, they come closer, and you can sit with the animals,” Helenka said. And there’s lots of animals to see ... alpacas,
rabbits, goats, chickens, donkeys and pigs Helenka said her boys enjoyed the alpaccas most of all. “It was good for the kids to get out, and not feel so boxed up in the house,” she said. “The kids loved it! It was so welcoming to interact with other people and animals. Afterwards, I could see how excited the boys were by the way they talked about it. Mentally, it did wonders for the kids to do something and get out, even for a small amount of time. It was worth the one and a half hour drive to get there.”
Wayne Bernard looks a bit unsure of his new found friend, Louise the alpaca. The Bernard family from Eston enjoyed an adventure to Cobler’s Cove at Gull Lake. | PHOTO BY HELENKA BERNARD
Living the dream
Eston is part of a 100 Radon Test Kit Challenge
This is a free service funded by Health Canada, and will be on a first come, first serve basis. If you would like to know more or sign up today, please head to eston.ca/radon to register.
JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
It all began when Ron Lamont found a picture he had been given in 1998 by an 11-year-old Kindersley student as a thank you gift from his class, for a presentation Ron had given. Now Ron wanted to return the work of art to Paul Hillacre, and find out where Paul’s artistic interests led him in his adult life.
Paul’s mother, Patty Hillacre, said her son was always ‘artsy’, and a builder. He started taking guitar lessons in Grade 5, and in high school watched a video on how to build a guitar.
Patty recalls asking her son what his dream job would be, and he promptly answered “building guitars”. His mom wasn’t sure if it was a possibility, but occasionally parents can be proven wrong.
“In his Grade 12 shop class, he asked if he could build a guitar instead of the typical project ... so he built his first guitar. It was pretty spectacular for a kid in Grade 12.” Patty said.
After high school, Paul worked for a carpenter, and built his second guitar. “He took his guitar to a music shop in Saskatoon, and the guy told him to show it to Sheldon Dingwall, who builds guitars,” Patty said. Three months later Paul was hired on at Dingwall Guitars in Saskatoon, where he is still employed 12 years later. There, Paul is dubbed as the master painter of basses. “He spends a lot of time in a paint booth,” Patty added.
After hours, Paul has gained quite a reputation for building his own ‘Hillacre” brand guitars. Dan Canfield, owner of Village Guitars, said in an interview back in 2016, “It’s a sea of builders out there. There’s a kid in town, Paul Hillacre, who makes insane, worldclass guitars. He makes them by hand, by himself, and all of his guitars are just off the hook.”
Patty Hillacre said, “It’s a bit of a side line. He builds for friends and family.” Paul built a guitar for his uncle, incorporating the Royal Canadian Navy symbol in the guitar.
Paul also had a two-part article published in Canadian Woodworking and Home Improvement magazine, entitled “Build an Electric Guitar - Without the Fancy Tools”.
“At the time he didn’t have access to customized tools, so he wrote the article to be able to build the guitar without having to invest a lot of money. It was a project a dad and child could do together,” Patty said. “The editor thought it was something his readers would be interested in and it’s been their second highest viewed article.”
Now you’ll find Paul Hillacre painting guitars at his day job, and weekends and evenings he will build his own “Hillacre” guitars for friends and family. “It’s labour intensive for sure,” Patty said. But it appears to be a labour of love for Paul Hillacre, who is busy doing what he loves to do.
Paul
Top Left: 11-year-old Paul presents his artistic work to Ron Lamont as a thank you for his presentation to the Grade 5 class.
holding one of the guitars he built. JOAN
Back in 2014, I started writing a column for a quality local newspaper over a three-year period. During that time, I shared a bit about life on our ranch and what it was like to raise our kids among the daily activities of breakdowns, calving cows, and lost dogs. I covered the challenges and triumphs around our newly established homestead including how to manage one mule’s emotions and my war on gophers. I shared anecdotes about that “one time” I got stuck (and that “other time” I got stuck), and the occasion when my twin four-year-old’s confidently rode away to gather pairs declaring they didn’t need me any longer. I answered the question no one actually asked – why does a woman from treeless southwest Saskatchewan self-identify as a tree hugger? Of course, no self-respecting ranch writer can avoid talking about the weather so that thread wound its way into several op-eds. Crocuses, gender equality in agriculture, love stories, and politics were a few of the completely arbitrary topics I unpacked over the years.
I enjoyed the literary
A Little Bit Western Back in the Saddle Again
By Tara Mulhern Davidson
exercise of writing things out and it became a diary of sorts that I like to look back on. I also think it’s important to engage audiences who may be unfamiliar with farm life to help create a connection between them and where their food comes from. And of course, I appreciated when fellow ranchers or parents could resonate with some of my experiences. It’s nice to be back in the saddle again. The metaphor is also fitting for a new year and a fresh start. January always seems a bit familiar and routine for me, in a good way and it does remind me of saddling up once again after a long time grounded. This last year has been full of confusion, chaos, and controversy for most everyone. However, I like to think that there were some opportunities too. If 2020 taught us one thing, it’s that we can adapt and switch gears when we need to. Things that seemed so important at one time, suddenly were not as significant as we thought. When society was unencumbered by commitments and schedules and hustle and bustle, the silence was deafening and a little uncomfortable. But some-
times discomfort is okay.
In our household it felt like we were given the gift of more time with our four kids who range in ages from three to ten. We ate every meal together, the kids spent more hours than ever with their animals, they used their imaginations, and learned plenty of real-life skills. As with anything, a little can go a long way though, and more quality time came with some struggles too. (Why is everyone hungry again? What is “new math” and why can’t I carry the one? What is the Zoom passcode? Why am I incapable of baking bread? How many hours until bedtime?).
For me, getting back in the saddle is maybe more about gaining a different perspective. Finding a change in scenery, getting outside of my own head and having a chance to see things from another hilltop, a different vantage point. It’s about being intentional with my time and energy (you have to catch the horse and get it saddled after all), but also staying calm and cool during unanticipated events (for example, when your saddle slides off when you lean too far over to identify a plant because you left your cinch too loose. Yes, this is a very specific example).
You never know what you’re going to encounter when you hop on your horse and head out, but part of the beauty is not knowing. Just remember to cinch up.
Tara is a rancher and writer from Ponteix, SK. She and her husband and their four children operate the Lonesome Dove Ranch.
1
DISTRICT #3
| Lashburn, Maidstone, Marsden and Neilburg
DISTRICT #4 0 Vacancies | Kindersley, Macklin and Denzil
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
There’s rumours floating about that suggest an election may be in Canada’s near future. It’s a time when many folks in western Canada are finding it a challenge to discern how they have benefitted from the current
OPINION
CHECK IT OUT with Joan Janzen
Getting by with a little help from friends
administration. However there are those who have benefitted.
A line in the lyrics of an ancient Beatles tune comes to mind ... “I’ll get by with a little help from my friends.” It may be a suitable tune for those who benefit from their personal ties with Justin Trudeau.
Rob Silver, the husband of Trudeau’s chief of staff, was awarded an $80 million contract to a new company he had established, to manage a Liberal government program to aid small businesses.
Trudeau’s half brother, Kyle Kemper, the son of his mother Margaret Trudeau
and her second husband, was given a $12,430 contract in June, 2019 by Global Affairs Canada to give a speech in Switzerland.
In 2020, a contract was awarded to a Montreal firm, which was founded and operated by a former Montreal Liberal MP and personal friend of Trudeau. The non-competitive contract worth $237 million, was granted to produce 10,000 medical ventilators. An identical ventilator, produced by a Mississauga, Ont. firm was sold around the world for half the price paid by the federal government.
It pays to be a friend of Trudeau. Last year he appointed 19 federal public servants to work part-time to advise former Finance Minister Bill Morneau in his efforts to become Secretary General of a Paris-based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). He was also given $6,265.76 to spend on hospitality, but Global Affairs said it had no projections as to the final price tag for this undertaking.
Trudeau’s friendships extend beyond our borders. In 2013, when asked which country he admires
most, he replied, “There’s a level of admiration I actually have for China. Their basic dictatorship is actually allowing them to turn their economy around on a dime.”
After becoming Canada’s Prime Minister, he said Ottawa intends to pursue deeper trade ties with the Chinese communist regime. In 2016 and 2017 he visited China in order to pursue talks towards a free trade agreement, even though there was a $50 billion imbalance in trade between the two countries in China’s favour
In 2017, Canada committed hundreds of millions of dollars in investment in Beijing’s Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. Trudeau may mistakenly believe his openness to China will result in a positive responses from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), but China
has more lofty goals than friendship.
The senior editor of China News, Dana Cheng, who earned her doctorate in the United States, explained, “When I was growing up in China a few decades ago, we were told the communists were going to liberate the whole world.”
These are all things to take into consideration as we hear of rumours of an upcoming election.
Contact Joan at joanjanzen@yahoo.com
Farmland For Sale By Tender
RM of Snipe Lake SE-7-27-20-W3
Any or highest tender not necessarily accepted. Tender closes February 15, 2021. Forward tenders to Scott Reeves at jsreeves65@gmail.com
Moe must go beyond tough talk
Premier Scott Moe has ben talking tough in the COVID-19.
Some of this tough talk was necessary. But other times, it was little more than talk that won’t change much at all.
Where Moe’s tough talk was most necessary and welcomed was his talk about getting tough with individuals and businesses defying the COVID-19 rules the rest of us are.
Moe has also talked about how the virus spread might be slowing in Saskatchewan, but the kindest thing one might say about such talk is that it’s a way too early.
Saskatchewan was doing well in the COVID-19 fight in December until “a Christmas bump,” Moe said, adding that the numbers have started to level out.
It is fair to say that the province is — at least as of the writing of this column — seeing somewhat steadier daily case counts of around 300 new cases a day.
However, Moe and his Saskatchewan government gloss over the reality that those numbers still translate into the most new cases per capita and most active cases per capita. It’s also quite likely that January will see
more COVID-19-related deaths in Saskatchewan than any month. This follows a record number of Saskatchewan COVID-19-related deaths.
Moe should instead give us straight-forward talk on the entire situation so people will be more accepting of any tough measures that could might be needed.
But it’s also here where Moe’s tough talk of clamping down may be most appreciated.
Speaking to reporters at a press conference broadcast provincewide, Moe spoke passionately about getting calls and petitions from frustrated hockey parents over their kids not being able to play as grownups flout the COVID-19 rules by partying it up in bars.
But let’s hope his Saskatchewan Party government is more than talk. Moe is dead right that a few businesses unwilling to follow the rules might be the very reason why other businesses and individuals would be stuck with even tighter restrictions. But it’s all rather meaningless if it’s not followed up by actions.
MURRAY MANDRYK Political Columnist
Moe hit a strong note when he suggested that it is some adults who are acting like selfish and immature kids unwilling to take responsibility and that “harsher punishment” might be needed for such adults.
As they say, talk is cheap and, right now, we aren’t exactly seeing this government put more money towards enforcement to ensure that people are following the rules.
In fact, Moe didn’t even explain last week why his government won’t publicly name rule-breaking businesses in the same way it puts out news releases for small businesses that break occupational health and safety rules. Instead, the government seems to be relying on social media to do so.
Nevertheless, someone in the Pre-
mier’s chair threatening to get tough is sometimes all that’s needed to get people to fall in line. Maybe this is what’s needed to crack down on local rule breakers.
That said, it’s unlikely that tough works with those who are far removed from this jurisdiction.
That would surely be the case of Moe’s tough talk — borrowed from Ontario Premier Doug Ford — about “sticking a firecracker up the ying yang of the chief executive officer of Pfizer to encourage him to get vaccines to this country and his province sooner.
Maybe Moe’s frustration was sincere — even if it was just mimicking what Ford said. Clearly, Moe recognizes mass vaccination is key in this fight. It might even be what people really want to hear. But, really, what good does it do?
Pfizer is an international company with $59 billion in annual revenues — four times that of Saskatchewan. Do Moe or Ford think the president of Pfizer is going to be intimidated into getting drugs here fast?
Sometimes tough talk is needed. Sometimes, it’s just talk.
Credit Moe for pulling no punches here.
R.M. of Kindersley Reeve, Lionel Story (right) presents retired Reeve Glen Harrison with a gift of appreciation for his many years of service. Glen served as a councillor from 1996-2006 and Reeve from 2006-2020.
R.M. of Kindersley Reeve, Lionel Story (right) presents retired councillor Gordon Wilson with a gift of appreciation for his many years of service. Gordon served on council from 2006-2020. SUBMITTED PHOTOS
Christel has helped families with their monument needs for over 30 years.
Granite Monument Specialists Dedicated to Quality Craftsmanship and Service
Kindersley RCMP respond to 73 calls for service
Between January 11th, to January 17th, 2021, Kindersley RCMP responded to 73 calls for service.
The vast majority of the calls for service, 53, were related to the storm and assisting with collisions or stranded drivers.
Other calls for service included; impaired operation of a motor vehicle, failure to comply with a probation order and several false alarm calls that were associated to the windy weather.
With predicted colder weather approaching at the end of the week Kindersley RCMP would like to remind motorists that intend to warm up their vehicles of the following:
• Use a remote starter or stay with your vehicle while it warms up.
• Remove any valuables from your vehicle.
• Do not leave your keys in your vehicle while it does warm up.
RCMP encourage the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity to police. Reports tell us where to look, who to look for, and where to patrol in the future. If you see a crime in progress, dial 911. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.
*For more information on the calls to service please contact the Kindersley RCMP detachment.
Serving Families Since 1933
Community Owned, Full-Service Funeral Home • Pre-planning • Monuments • Grief Support • Only crematorium in the west-central area
We know how important it is to support active children in our province, therefore we are reinstating the Active Families Benefit. The benefit is a non-refundable tax credit of $150 per year, per child to eligible families. Families of children with a disability will receive an additional $50, for a total tax credit of $200 per year, per child. In the 2021 tax year, families will be able to claim this benefit to reduce the overall cost of children’s activities.
YOUR SMILE GUARANTEED
Kindersley Denture Clinic
David J. Anderson D.D. & Caitlin Geiger D.D.
109 - 1st Ave. West, Kindersley, SK 1-306-463-4124
Call today for an appointment.
NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL
TOWN OF EATONIA
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Town of Eatonia for the year 2021 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 9:00 a.m. to Noon and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on the following days:
MONDAY TO FRIDAY
JANUARY 22nd TO MARCH 26th, 2021
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
Any person who wishes to appeal his or her assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal, accompanied by an appeal fee of $50.00 per $100,000 assessed value or portion thereof to a maximum of $500.00 per appeal which will be returned if the appeal is successful, with The Assessor Town of Eatonia Box 237 Eatonia, SK. S0L 0Y0 by the 26th day of March, 2021.
Dated this 22nd day of January, 2021. Cheryl Bailey Assessor
Dear Editor,
Although most of my main stock of books is elsewhere and inaccessible, some computer disks have followed me to my durance in a wheelchair in Eatonia Oasis Living. Yesterday, I found a column I wrote 12 years ago. It is still pertinent. I hope you will agree.
YOUR WEST CENTRAL VOICE
Yours truly,
W.T. Wardill
Political Geometry
Had citizens of other countries been able to register their votes in the 2008 US presidential election, the Democratic candidate’s margin of victory would have been enormous. Canadians who have an awareness of what is happening in world affairs are all Obama-lovers, whereas most Canadians who dislike Obama are firmly mired in the outward political pattern of the past. The talking heads of airwaves, on both sides of the border, constantly refer to political parties and the governments which are derived from them by how far and in what direction they have strayed from the center. We hear Center Right and Centre-Left. The trouble is that the political center is not a fixed point. It moves.
The talking heads are telling us that, under the new president, the US will have a Center-Left government, while the government of Canada, under Stephen Harper, is Center Right. This, they will say, reverses the pattern of relationships that have endured for almost a century. What they say is true, but in this instance, what they say doesn’t really matter.
In his acceptance speech, the American President-elect brought ideas and promises out of the realm of Common Sense. He appealed for a new national di-
alogue and purpose, for a nation to set aside political squabble and ingrained prejudices in order to face its real enemies, both at home and abroad. The new reality he envisions is still only as solid as a shadow. The challenges he faces are enormous, but at least he is saying wise and hope-filled words. Because he has been a principal actor in the necessary presidential election, mandated by the constitution and vital to the well-being of both his own country and the world, the long election campaign was a dramatic and exciting process. Contrast this with the brief contest that was Canada’s unnecessary election. It was as exciting as a bowlful of cold mush.
Canada’s elected representatives are still jousting in political tournaments.
Barristers and Solicitors
Monte J. Sheppard, BA., JD. Mark L. Millar, BA., JD.
1st Ave. E. Kindersley SK S0L
Kindersley.law@sasktel.net
Classifieds
NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the estate of Jillane Dixie Froehlich late of Kindersley, Saskatchewan, deceased. All claims against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 31st of January 2021.
Morgotch Law Box 2530 1001 #4 Main Street Kindersley, SK S0L 1S0
400 BULL SALE
SATURDAY, JAN. 30, 2021
Lloydminster, SK • EX Grounds 12 Noon MST ALL 2 YEAR OLDS
• Red Angus • Black Angus
• Red Super Baldies & Black Super Baldies (RA/BAxSM)
Catalogue/DVD on-line now Mac and Pat Creech 1-780-875-8167
FOR RENT
ROOMS FOR RENT.
$500. Includes all utilities. Call Tim Schuh at 306460-9292.
WANTED
WANTED TO BUYHunting Rifles, Shotguns and Ammunition. Have permits. Call 463-7756 (Cell). MR29
RATES (based on 20 words or less). $10.00 plus GST. Additional words are 20¢ each. Deadline is Thursday noon. 306-671-0242
LAND FOR SALE BY TENDER
Sealed tenders will be received by Smith & Hersey Agribusiness Law of Consort and Oyen until the deadline of 4:00 p.m. on February 18, 2021, for the sale of the following Land:
1. Section 34-30-29-W3 2. W ½ 27-30-29-W3
3. W ½ 26-30-29-W3 4. S ½ 22-30-29-W3
5. W ½ 15-30-29-W3 6. W ½ 23-30-29-W3
7. E ½ 27-30-29-W3 (home ¼ is SE)
• 1,874 total acres - 1,624 of which are cultivated (GPS measurement)
• 180 acres of pasture with very good water
• Yard site contains: 2 homes (1,200 and 800 sq ft); heated barn (30 x 50); heated shop (32 x 48); large machine shed (70 x 120); small machine shed (40 x 60); 38,000 bu of bin space (17,500 bu has aeration)
Land is located 4 miles south of Loverna, SK directly on the AB/SK border.
Tenders on the Land must be accompanied by a certified cheque, bank draft, or electronic transfer in favor of “Smith & Hersey Agribusiness Law” for $20,000.00 as a deposit. The deposit will be returned if the tender is not accepted. If a tender is accepted and the tenderer does not proceed with the sale, the deposit of the tenderer will be forfeited to the owner. The balance of the tender price shall be paid and the sale will close no later than March 19th, 2021. The owner and the successful tenderer will each be responsible for their own legal fees. Each tenderer must understand that a tender is an unconditional offer to purchase the Shares/Land set out in the tender. Tenderers must rely on their own research of the Lands, and Smith & Hersey Agribusiness Law and the owner make no warranties or representations in regard to the Lands.
The Vendor requests bids for a share purchase whereby the Purchaser buys the vendor’s corporation which maintains only the lands and assets listed above. The Home Quarter is personally owned and will be sold as well. Share purchase tenders will be given significant preference over land purchase tenders. Should a potential purchaser require further information or have questions regarding a share sale, please contact the Vendor’s lawyer, Reid Wilkie at the number below.
The owner has complete discretion whether to accept the highest or any tender. Further inquiries, or to arrange viewing the lands, can be made by contacting Reid Wilkie at (403) 577-2539 or reid@smithhersey.com. Tenders may be emailed or sealed in an envelope marked “LAND TENDER” and delivered to:
Smith & Hersey Agribusiness Law
Attention: Reid A. Wilkie
Box 95 Consort, AB, T0C 1B0
Phone: 403.527.5506 or 403.664.2812
Email: reid@smithhersey.com
In person to Reid Wilkie in Consort every Wednesday
In person to Reid Wilkie in Oyen every Thursday
LAND FOR SALE BY SEALED TENDER
Under the provision of The Tax Enforcement Act the Town of Eston offers for sale the following land: Lot 1 Block 6 Plan AK3267 301 Main Street
The Town of Eston is now accepting tenders from interested parties for the sale of the above land acquired through tax collection. The Town of Eston reserves the right to reject any or all bids received. Tender packages can be picked up at the Town of Eston, Box 757, Eston SK S0L 1A0. For more information contact the Town of Eston at (306) 962-4444.
The deadline for receipt of tenders is Tuesday February 16 at 5:00pm.
Tenders should be marked “PROPERTY TENDER/LAND TENDER”
Lakeland College develops first bachelor of agriculture technology degree
Lakeland College is offering Canada’s first degree in agriculture technology this fall. Developed to enable students to keep ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving world of agricultural technology, Lakeland’s bachelor of agriculture technology program offers real-world experience with the latest agricultural equipment, software, hardware and digital devices.
Starting in September 2021, the two-year, post-credential program consists of full-time studies at the Vermilion campus and experiential learning practicums off campus, all designed to bridge the gap between emerging technologies and agricultural management and production systems.
“There’s a lot of technology already available and in use in the agricultural industry. However, few people have an in-depth understanding of how to use it and the information it collects, or how to integrate that information into their commercial farm operations and agriculture businesses. Our new degree program will produce graduates who can effectively use emerging technologies and the data they produce in commercial agriculture to provide important answers on return on investment,” says Michael Crowe, Lakeland’s vice president of academic and research.
Students will delve into crop and livestock farming and smart agriculture as a management system, including data collection and analysis as well as the use of interpretative tools and programs such as robotics, geospatial tools, artificial intelligence and others. They’ll also learn how to analyze and troubleshoot industry-leading hardware, software and data platforms. Students will operate and adapt the technology and data systems on Lakeland’s Student-Managed Farm – Powered by New Holland.
“Graduates of the program will bring unique skill sets into the workforce by blending both agriculture production and agricultural technology expertise. Industry feedback indicated there is a shortage of agricultural professionals who can interface between the two disciplines – our degree program will fill that gap,” says Josie Van Lent, dean of the School of Agriculture Technology and Applied Research. “We great-
ly appreciate the support and help from industry in the development of this program.”
Courses offered in the bachelor of agriculture technology program include emerging technologies in ag, economics of precision agriculture and precision farming global positioning essentials, as well as specific courses related to the integration and use of ag technology in crops and livestock systems, farms and ranches. The curriculum looks at all platforms and all equipment brands. Students will specialize in either crops or livestock technological applications.
Graduates of the program will find employment in a variety of agricultural production fields. These can include data services, development, management, precision technology, production, research and sales with agricultural technology companies, research organizations, equipment dealerships and more. Practicums will be completed at agriculture data companies, technology and equipment manufacturers, agriculture equipment dealerships, crop input service providers, private agronomist service companies, crop and livestock service centres, farms, breeding and genomic companies, and other related agriculture industries.
The bachelor of agriculture technology program is the culmination of several years of consultation, research and development, says Crowe. It was established in response to demand from industry and students. More than 40 agricultural organizations and companies were consulted during an independent industry needs assessment. A student survey indicated strong interest in a degree program and identified curriculum interests in the area of agriculture technology.
Students in the bachelor of agriculture technology program will complete their on-campus studies and hands-on training in Lakeland’s new agricultural technology centre, which is slated to open later this year. The 8,000-square-foot building at the Vermilion campus will be an on-farm lab where students gain experience working with new ag technologies and analyzing new data-sets.
For more information or to apply, visit lakelandcollege.ca/AgTechDegree.
About Lakeland College
Established in 1913, Lakeland College is a place of possibility that serves more than 6,400 students every year at its campuses in Vermilion, Alta., and Lloydminster, Alta./Sask., and through online and off-site programs and courses. Lakeland’s agricultural sciences programming prepares graduates to make an impact in commercial agriculture and animal health. Programs are integrated with real-world learning situations and new technologies. The Student-Managed Farm – Powered by New Holland (SMF) is Lakeland’s flagship student-led opportunity. Students are in charge of managing commercial-scale crop, livestock and ag research enterprises utilizing the latest equipment and technology. With access to modern ag facilities, hundreds of head of livestock and 3,000+ acres, the real world comes to them before they graduate.
Lakeland also offers programming in the areas of business, energy, environmental sciences, fire and emergency services, foundational learning, health and wellness, human services, interior design technology, trades and technology, and university transfer. For more information visit lakelandcollege.ca.
Lakeland College is offering Canada’s first degree in agriculture technology this fall. Photo LakeLand CoLLege
A Guide to Post Secondary Education
MHC adds Agroecology to program mix
Great Plains College is here and ready!
WrittenbytheMedicineHat College
Great Plains College is committed to being a leader in post-secondary and labour market development in Saskatchewan. Over the past number of years, the college has strived to become a responsive, innovative and results-oriented institution committed to meeting the needs of learners, employers and communities in Saskatchewan.
An exciting new program has been added to Medicine Hat College’s academic offering, giving students interested in sustainable agriculture an opportunity to become a registered technologist in Agrology (RTAg), while staying close to home in the southern Prairies.
Great Plains College offers post-secondary certificate, diploma, degree and graduate degree programs, as well as university, safety training, Adult Basic Education and English language training at locations across western Saskatchewan. Campus locations are available at Kindersley, Swift Current and Warman, with additional programming available at Biggar, Maple Creek, Martensville and Rosetown Program Centres.
The two year Agroecology Technician diploma program provides students with the competencies required for producing food, forage, fiber, and fuel using sustainable methods, as well as a range of knowledge in the three E’s: environment, economics, and energy using systems theory.
real-world experience in designing, monitoring and assessing sustainable agroecological systems, meeting the knowledge, technical skills, and per formance competencies required for certification with the Alberta Insti tute of Agrologists.
“Medicine Hat College is excited to bring this opportunity to learners in southern Alberta and Saskatchewan as the pro gram is well-aligned and serves the needs of our region and communities in terms of offering new streams of employment and alternative ways of doing agriculture,” explains the program’s coordinator, Brent Smith.
The program and course offerings include a wide variety within the themes of Business & Administration (Administrative Assistant, Business, Master of Business in Community Economic Development), Health Care & Humanities (Continuing Care Assistant, Early Childhood Education, Practical Nursing, Youth Care Worker), Trades & Power Engineering (Electrician, Heavy Equipment Operator, Occupational Health & Safety, Power Engineering, Welding) and University.
Learners will engage in experiential learning opportunities to gain
The college is proud to offer one of the most competitive scholarship programs among regional colleges. Students are automatically considered for an Entrance Scholarship of $500-$5,000 when they apply to a full-time student loan-eligible program before the scholarship deadline (April 30 for September entry, or October 31 for late fall or winter entry). Grade 11 students applying to a full-time student loan-eligible program are also considered for an additional Early Entrance Award of $1,000. More information can be found at www. greatplainscollege.ca/scholarships.
The college also offers custom training options for special course needs. To arrange specialty courses, please contact the college at 1 (866) 296-2472 to speak with one of the safety training coordinators.
and drought-proofing and water harvesting that all have a profoundly positive impact on the future of our communities and our environ-
There is so much to appreciate about Great Plains College and we encourage you to contact us to find out more about the many options available for you. We offer quality education in a variety program areas, provide quality instructors with field and industry experience and offer one of the most robust scholarship programs in the province - all of this with the ability to access those opportunities close to home.
students to transfer to universities offering sustainable agriculture programs.
This program uniquely teaches a systems-thinking approach to sustainable agriculture and will equip learners with the knowledge and skills
Great Plains College makes safety training easy. We truly believe safety training doesn’t cost…it pays. Proper safety training helps keep workers safe and companies productive, but finding
gram leverages an important part of our region’s economic sector and prepares students to find meaningful, longterm employment and a future income stream that’s not going to be subject to market forces.”
a crop or livestock pro ducer.
time for all the required courses and certifications amongst a busy work environment can be a challenge.
That’s where Great Plains College comes in. As a trusted partner in safety training, the college prides itself on working alongside industry to ensure quality safety training opportunities are readily available so that all jobs can get done safely.
Employment opportunities that stem from the completion of the Agroecology Technician
Safety training courses are scheduled across the college locations and are based on regional industry demand. Training can be provided at college location or onsite at the workplace, offering companies and individuals a chance to choose the most convenient option for them. The college recognizes the specialty course needs of the energy industry in western Saskatchewan and works to ensure classes are available in unison with industry’s cycles.
Some regularly scheduled safety training options available at the college include: ATV and UTV training, Chainsaw Safety, Class 1 Truck Driver MELT theory (distance and in-person options), Confined Space Entry and Rescue, Fall Protection for Rig Work and Rig Rescue, Fire Extinguisher, First Aid/CPR, Global Ground Disturbance Levels 1 and 2, H2S Alive, Power Mobile Equipment
(Forklift, Scissorlift, Skidsteer, Telehandler and Articulating Manlift), Special Oilfield Boiler Operator, and Workplace Fall Protection. A full listing of course options and a safety training calendar is available online at www.greatplainscollege.ca/safety-training.
“An exciting aspect to this program is the innovative and creative opportunities in diversifying current practices and products that will emerge. Students will taught about free food production design systems, low input parks and community spaces,
“Additionally, there are all kinds of agricultural products that our region is well-suited to produce that we are currently not taking advantage of, and this program can be influential in creating new industry and bringing subsequent jobs in our region,” remarks Smith.
Applications are now open for this program, with the first intake of students to begin their studies in Fall 2021.
Check us out – visit www.greatplainscollege.ca, attend an online interactive webinar or open house event, access our campus virtual tours, or contact a student adviser at 1-866-296-2472 to discuss the many options available. Follow us on our social media channels to keep up-to-date on the latest news and events.
We look forward to meeting you –Great Plains College is here and ready!
Upon completion of the diploma, the opportunity further exists for
For more information on MHC’s Agroecology Technician program or to apply, visit www.mhc. ab.ca. To schedule an appointment with a career specialist or academic advisor, call 1-866-2828394.
Creative passion becomes profession
Writtenbythe MedicineHat College
From small town Saskatchewan to beautiful British Columbia, education at Medicine Hat College (MHC) helped pave the way to a career of joy and fulfillment for Myron Campbell.
Campbell is a thriving artist and a professor in the division of Visual Arts at the University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO). His creative journey began in the Visual Communications diploma program at MHC, which has since become Bachelor of Applied Arts – Art and Design.
big which was desirable to me having grown up in Weyburn, Saskatchewan. The facility had high end equipment and 24 hour access - both were unprecedented at the time. The program was well rounded in that I could pursue my own personal art, as well as client-based work at the same time. I knew it was the perfect fit for me.”
Campbell acknowledges the program as being influential in shaping him into the artist he is today, crediting the vast array of modalities, skills, and techniques he was exposed to during his time at the college.
“MHC’s program is unique in that it offers a real balance of both fine arts training and design training. It’s pretty rare to get that balance in a program, and the college does a great job of it,” explains Campbell.
I am on any given day. I was introduced to every medium possible and then built up my practice to what suited me. I received a real broad training which was so awesome.”
Campbell praises a professor he had at MHC as a huge inspiration and driving force behind where he is today, a role he strives to fill for the students he now teaches.
“Medicine Hat College is a little gem. I first heard about the institution from my junior high art teacher and after high school, I went to the city to visit a friend who was taking the program. I absolutely loved it there,” remarks Campbell.
“Medicine Hat was the
“Teaching creative studies is where I belong. My passion for art and creativity has lead me to a place where I’m forever being fulfilled, inspired, and growing as an artist, designer and practitioner.”
“It’s an ideal academic pathway for someone like me who can’t de-
Learn more about Art & Design and all of the programs Medicine Hat College has to offer at www.mhc.ab.ca. To schedule an appointment with a career specialist or academic advi-
Photo courtesy of the Medicine Hat College
MARCH 6 MARCH 6
• Explore our campus & facilities from home
• Find out how to earn course credit and an official MyExperience Transcript for workplace, study-abroad, research and other hands-on learning
• Learn more about our extraordinary courses & programs, opportunities student supports and more
WHO IS OPEN HOUSE FOR?
• High-school students
• College students
• Mature students
• Prospective graduate students
• Family & friends
A Guide to Post Secondary Education
WrittenbytheMedicineHat College
At the University of Lethbridge EXPERIENCE MATTERS
students to transfer to
Applications are now open for this program, with the first intake of students to begin their
theory.
Learners will engage in experiential learning opportunities to gain
teaches a systems-think ing approach to sustainable agriculture and will equip learners with the knowledge and skills
Your education is more than what you learn in the classroom. At uLethbridge, you’ll prepare for the career world by gaining first-hand experiences, new skills and the ability to apply your knowledge.
Now, you can show what sets you apart with uLethbridge’s unique MyExperience Transcript (MET). A record of your high-impact experiences, you can share your MET with future employers, professional associations, volunteer boards and others to illustrate your competitive edge.
Here are a few examples of experiential learning opportunities at uLethbridge, by category:
Leadership
• uLethbridge Students’ Union & Graduate Students’ Association executive & council roles
• Exhibitions, performances & productions, studio coursework, ensemble or performance groups
• Publication authorship/co-authorship
Innovation & entrepreneurship
• AGILITY programming
Travel & global citizenship
• International exchange (outbound), study tours, courses offered abroad, work-study, Semester at Sea, archaeological field school, Malawi field study
Work-integrated learning
• Co-operative education
• Applied studies
• Internships, practicum placements and preceptorships
Community service
• uVolunteer experiences
• CKXU, The Meliorist, PRIDE Centre, Women’s Centre, LPIRG, ULSU Volunteer Crew experience
subject to market forces.”
Employment opportunities that stem from the completion of the Agroecology Technician
Professional development
emerge. Students will taught about free food production design systems, low input parks and community spaces,
• Workshops, conferences & speakers’ series
• Integrated Management Experience & Student-Managed Investment Fund
• Mental Health First Aid
• The Inquiring Mind
Early Start Experience
region,” remarks Smith.
Upon completion of the diploma, the opportunity further exists for
For more information on MHC’s Agroecology Technician program or pointment with a career specialist or academic advisor, call 1-866-2828394.
Creative passion becomes profession
Writtenbythe MedicineHat College
the executive of clubs, a teaching assistant, a French tutor, a volunteer for the International Centre and more. To sum up, uLethbridge puts you on the path to success by helping you build relationships, find opportunities and develop new experiences and skills.”
Lorenzo Bachman-Conrad
With the Early Start Experience (ESE), first-year students take and earn credit for a liberal education course before the Fall 2021 term starts. Get to know the Lethbridge Campus, meet fellow students and your professors and learn about the resources available to you, while making the transition from high school to university easier and giving you credit toward your degree.
Did you know?
From small town Saskatchewan to beautiful British Columbia, education at Medicine Hat College (MHC) helped pave the way to a career of joy and fulfillment for Myron Campbell.
• The average salary of uLethbridge co-op students is $25.77/hour. 1
• The national average is $21.03. 95% of uLethbridge coop students received positive performance evaluations. 1
• The Fall 2020 term saw 1,222 uLethbridge students participate in at least one work-integrated learning experience, for a total of 63,385 placement hours
• The MyExperience calendar saw 2,426 registrations for 180 virtual events and workshops during the Fall 2020 term.
1 Career Bridge WIL Annual Report 2018-19
Meet a few uLethbridge students who are learning by doing:
Valentine Deregnaucourt
Campbell is a thriving artist and a professor in the division of Visual Arts at the University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO). His creative journey began in the Visual Communications diploma program at MHC, which has since become Bachelor of Applied Arts – Art and Design.
Bachelor of Science student | Major: Kinesiology
When Valentine moved to Canada from France, she looked for a university known for its research programs, innovation, and ability to help students develop skills and work experience.
“Since I started at uLethbridge, I’ve had so many opportunities and experiences. Because it’s a small university, I was able to get to know my professors, and staff. In my first two years, I was involved in three different research projects, on
“Medicine Hat College is a little gem. I first heard about the institution from my junior high art teacher and after high school, I went to the city to visit a friend who was taking the program. I absolutely loved it there,” remarks Campbell.
“Medicine Hat was the
big which was desirable to me having grown up in Weyburn, Saskatchewan. The facility had high end equipment and 24 hour access - both were unprecedented at the time. The program was well rounded in that I could pursue my own personal art, as well as client-based work at the same time. I knew it was the perfect fit for me.”
Dhillon School of Business student | Major: Computer Science, Minor: New Media
Lorenzo is building an impressive resume and a strong network by working where he learns. His campus roles so far include lifeguard, teaching assistant, tutor and marketing designer/consultant.
I am on any given day. I was introduced to every medium possible and then built up my practice to what suited me. I received a real broad training which was so awesome.”
“I started as a lifeguard for Horns Recreation at the University, and now provide marketing support for the department. It is incredible to work for the same institution where you learn. I’ m a teaching assistant in the Dhillon School of Business, and love having the opportunity to help students make connections and apply course concepts in a new and exciting way. I was also working on a textbook with one of my instructors, but it was put on hold because of COVID-19.”
Haley Shade
Campbell praises a professor he had at MHC as a huge inspiration and driving force behind where he is today, a role he strives to fill for the students he now teaches.
Bachelor of Science student | Major: Biological Sciences
Campbell acknowledges the program as being influential in shaping him into the artist he is today, crediting the vast array of modalities, skills, and techniques he was exposed to during his time at the college.
In the Cancer Cell and Natural Product Laboratories at uLethbridge, Haley is gaining valuable research experience testing prairie plants for anti-cancer compounds.
“Working in the lab, I’ve learned more about the scientific process and gained experience conducting my own research, working in a laboratory and refining my skills. In addition to setting up experiments investigate the plants we work with, I’m going back into the community to speak with medicine men and Elders to learn more about the Traditional uses of each plant.”
“Teaching creative studies is where I belong. My passion for art and creativity has lead me to a place where I’m forever being fulfilled, inspired, and growing as an artist, designer and practitioner.”
Learn more about uLethbridge programs, experiences, opportunities and supports at our Virtual Open House, March 6.
“MHC’s program is unique in that it offers a real balance of both fine arts training and design training. It’s pretty rare to get that balance in a program, and the college does a great job of it,” explains Campbell.
“It’s an ideal academic pathway for someone like me who can’t de-
Learn more about Art & Design and all of the programs Medicine Hat College has to offer at www.mhc.ab.ca. To schedule an appointment with a career specialist or academic advi-
For details, to register for Open House or to apply to uLethbridge, visit uLethbridge.ca
In the Cancer Cell and Natural Product Laboratories at uLethbridge, students gain valuable research experience testing prairie plants for anti-cancer compounds. | UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE PHOTO
Sure-Fire Streaming: The best in TV and film from your living room
BY JORDAN PARKER https://parkerandpictures.wordpress.com/
Sonic the Hedgehog – Available On Prime
Back when a Sonic movie was announced, a Twitter firestorm launched after a lazy character rendering of the speedy 90s videogame hedgehog was released.
Never before have I seen such fan service – These filmmakers re-branded and changed the Sonic character to look more believable, and their bet paid off.
Adults – full of nostalgia from playing the game on their Sega systems –and their kids arrived in droves to see the flick.
The best part? Sonic ended up actually being pretty darn good. It’s a lively adaptation, full of wit, with a wonderful voice performance from Ben Schwartz and the most full-bodied comedic turn from Jim Carrey in a decade make this a must-see.
When a small-town police officer discovers pesky sonic, he must help him fight off evil genius Dr. Robotnik, who is trying to steal him to do experiments on him.
With an A-grade cast, laughs for all ages and a generally fun atmosphere, it’s the perfect escapism for these modern times.
The Vanished – Available On Netflix
When you spend as much time watching movies as I do, not many twists and turns come as a surprise.
But The Vanished lands squarely on this list because it came right out of nowhere and left me gobsmacked.
Two parents camping at an RV park suffer their worst nightmare when their daughter goes missing, and they soon realize they’ll need to take the investiga-
tion into their own hands.
As they spar with law enforcement and search for their little girl, they recognize they’ll stop at nothing to find her.
This leads to some consequences and actions they’ll never be able to take back or forget, as they push against their own morals and boundaries to find their little girl.
Thomas Jane and Anne Heche, two of the most underrated actors working, sell this picture. But you need to see this heartstopping ending for yourself.
Pieces Of A Woman – Available On Netflix
This is, quite honestly, the most difficult film I’ve seen in the past decade.
Following a home birth that ends in absolute tragedy, a couple tries to pull together the remaining pieces of their relationship, but don’t know how to console each other.
The two lovers are dealing with the fragments of something that was dismantled for reasons beyond their control, and they struggle with what to do.
Vanessa Kirby gives an Oscar-worthy performance here as a woman struggling with losing her child, and Ellen Burstyn is the best she’s been in 20 years as a mother who just wants to hold her child and make things better.
It’s a tearful, heartbreaking affair, but you won’t catch a more raw, captivating flick this year. I guarantee it.
The Lovebirds – Available On Netflix
As a long-time couple comes to the realization they can no longer particularly stand each other, they’re put in a situation where they must band together to survive.
This comedy about two lovers who witness a murder is about as fresh, funny and enjoyable as it can get.
WEEK OF JANUARY 24 TO 30, 2021
THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: VIRGO, LIBRA AND SCORPIO
ARIES
After a few celebrations, your house might feel like it’s been turned upside down, so you’ll quickly set about restoring order. A major cleaning is needed, and you’ll unclutter your mind in the process.
TAURUS
You won’t hesitate to speak your mind and voice your concerns when others won’t. You might also write a poem or express something that ends up being quoted around the world, much to your surprise.
GEMINI
You’ll be worried about a financial issue. It’s probably just a simple mistake though, such as a bill addressed to the wrong person. You’ll soon be smiling again, and your natural charisma will return.
CANCER
You’ll have a lot going on. Your loved ones will get you to participate in a few activities or at least succeed in getting you out of the house. You’ll be talked into signing up for a group course of some kind.
LEO
You’ll need a second cup of coffee to feel like yourself and do away with procrastination. Afterward, you’ll become incredibly effective at kickstarting new projects and achieving certain goals.
VIRGO
and
in comedy The Big Sick, have pretty impeccable chemistry here. They’re hilarious together, and they make this whole thing work.
It’s a foul-mouthed adult comedy, but one with a big beating heart, and that counts for something.
I belly-laughed numerous times, and there were surprises-aplenty in a movie I truly wish audiences could have experienced on the big-screen. This one is best with an audience, but your bubble should all really have fun with this one.
Yellowstone – Available On Prime
From the man behind such incredible hits as Sicario and Hell Or High Water comes this incredible Paramount series.
Yellowstone is about a wealthy ranching family – think Dynasty, but better acted – who face scrutiny and attempts to usurp their stronghold in the valley, even as they fight within the family as well.
Kevin Costner stars as patriarch John Dutton, and his no-nonsense, family-first character makes for the best work I’ve seen the acting legend do in years.
Playing his offspring are Luke Grimes, the criminally underrated Wes Bentley, and Kelly Reilly, who is fierce as foul-mouthed daughter Beth.
With ranch-hands who live and die by his orders and his security and righthand man Rip Wheeler (Cole Hauser in the role of his career) doing his bidding, John Dutton does some despicable things while staying away from the real danger.
This is an addicting show and
tirely worth a
regret it.
In the middle of a crowd, you won’t always know how to push your way through it. At work, your boss, clients or colleagues will frequently seem uncertain and make a lot of vague requests.
LIBRA
At work, you’ll be entitled to a significant promotion. Before you agree to anything, however, it’s vital that you talk it over with your partner and the rest of your family to avoid any misunderstandings.
SCORPIO
The winter blues are setting in and beginning to affect you more and more. It won’t be long before you start planning a vacation somewhere tropical. Good times ahead will reenergize you.
SAGITTARIUS
You’ll be very sensitive, and your emotions might play tricks on you. You’ll shed some light on a nefarious affair at work or possibly within the family.
CAPRICORN
You’ll need to hone your negotiation skills, both in your personal and professional life. You have everything you need to reach a lasting agreement that will impact the rest of your career.
AQUARIUS
You’ll find yourself the focus of everyone’s attention, which will make you very happy. You might also receive a reward or possibly some kind of promotion at work.
PISCES
If your health is the least bit fragile these days, it would be a good idea to take some time to rest. Fortunately, the sleep you get will be incredibly restorative, and you’ll quickly recover your strength.
Issa Rae – the incredible star of HBO’s Insecure –
Kumail Nanjiani, who starred
CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS
AMERICAN SPELLING
A Guide to Post Secondary Education
MHC adds Agroecology to program mix
WrittenbytheMedicineHat College
An exciting new program has been added to Medicine Hat College’s academic offering, giving students interested in sustainable agriculture an opportunity to become a registered technologist in Agrology (RTAg), while staying close to home in the southern Prairies.
The two year Agroecology Technician diploma program provides students with the competencies required for producing food, forage, fiber, and fuel using sustainable methods, as well as a range of knowledge in the three E’s: environment, economics, and energy using systems theory.
Learners will engage in experiential learning opportunities to gain
real-world experience in designing, monitoring and assessing sustainable agroecological systems, meeting the knowledge, technical skills, and performance competencies required for certification with the Alberta Institute of Agrologists.
“Medicine Hat College is excited to bring this opportunity to learners in southern Alberta and Saskatchewan as the program is well-aligned and serves the needs of our region and communities in terms of offering new streams of employment and alternative ways of doing agriculture,” explains the program’s coordinator, Brent Smith. This program uniquely teaches a systems-thinking approach to sustainable agriculture and will equip learners with the knowledge and skills
required for protecting and conserving natural ecosystems, as well as maximizing production systems that mimic natural systems such as perennial crops, diversity, rotations, limited/no till grazing, and many more.
“Agriculture is one of southern Alberta’s leading industries, and there is always going to be resources and demand for agriculture because everyone needs to eat,” adds Smith. “This program leverages an important part of our region’s economic sector and prepares students to find meaningful, longterm employment and a future income stream that’s not going to be subject to market forces.”
Employment opportunities that stem from the completion of the Agroecology Technician
diploma include agricultural research technician, urban agriculture designer or landscaper, range management consultant or professional, and an environmental consultant.
Graduates will also be equipped with the entrepreneurial knowledge needed to start a business in sustainable agriculture or greenhouse horticulture, or support the takeover of a family agriculture business as a crop or livestock producer.
“An exciting aspect to this program is the innovative and creative opportunities in diversifying current practices and products that will emerge. Students will taught about free food production design systems, low input parks and community spaces,
and drought-proofing and water harvesting that all have a profoundly positive impact on the future of our communities and our environment.
“Additionally, there are all kinds of agricultural products that our region is well-suited to produce that we are currently not taking advantage of, and this program can be influential in creating new industry and bringing subsequent jobs in our region,” remarks Smith.
Upon completion of the diploma, the opportunity further exists for
students to transfer to universities offering sustainable agriculture programs.
Applications are now open for this program, with the first intake of students to begin their studies in Fall 2021.
For more information on MHC’s Agroecology Technician program or to apply, visit www.mhc. ab.ca. To schedule an appointment with a career specialist or academic advisor, call 1-866-2828394.
Creative passion becomes profession
Writtenbythe MedicineHat College
From small town Saskatchewan to beautiful British Columbia, education at Medicine Hat College (MHC) helped pave the way to a career of joy and fulfillment for Myron Campbell.
Campbell is a thriving artist and a professor in the division of Visual Arts at the University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO). His creative journey began in the Visual Communications diploma program at MHC, which has since become Bachelor of Applied Arts – Art and Design.
“Medicine Hat College is a little gem. I first heard about the institution from my junior high art teacher and after high school, I went to the city to visit a friend who was taking the program. I absolutely loved it there,” remarks Campbell.
“Medicine Hat was the perfect size and not too
big which was desirable to me having grown up in Weyburn, Saskatchewan. The facility had high end equipment and 24 hour access - both were unprecedented at the time. The program was well rounded in that I could pursue my own personal art, as well as client-based work at the same time. I knew it was the perfect fit for me.”
Campbell acknowledges the program as being influential in shaping him into the artist he is today, crediting the vast array of modalities, skills, and techniques he was exposed to during his time at the college.
“MHC’s program is unique in that it offers a real balance of both fine arts training and design training. It’s pretty rare to get that balance in a program, and the college does a great job of it,” explains Campbell.
“It’s an ideal academic pathway for someone like me who can’t decide what type of artist
I am on any given day. I was introduced to every medium possible and then built up my practice to what suited me. I received a real broad training which was so awesome.”
Campbell praises a professor he had at MHC as a huge inspiration and driving force behind where he is today, a role he strives to fill for the students he now teaches.
“Teaching creative studies is where I belong. My passion for art and creativity has lead me to a place where I’m forever being fulfilled, inspired, and growing as an artist, designer and practitioner.”
Learn more about Art & Design and all of the programs Medicine Hat College has to offer at www.mhc.ab.ca.
To schedule an appointment with a career specialist or academic advisor, call 1-866-282-8394.
Photo courtesy of the Medicine Hat College
A Guide to Post Secondary Education Team effort enhances student experience
Sask Polytech Simulation Centre teams up with Addictions Counselling to give students real world experience.
Writtenby SaskatchewanPolytechnic
Ask alumni about their time at Saskatchewan Polytechnic and they’ll probably have a story about one special class. For current students in the Addictions Counselling diploma program, that one class may very well be COUN 155-Addictions Counselling Practice.
“Individual counselling is the cornerstone of an addiction counsellor’s work, and Addictions Counselling Practice gives students the skills they will need in the workplace,” says instructor Joy Friesen. “It’s a lab class where students practice the counselling model with each other, but we thought providing them with simulated clients would be an outstanding experience.”
Simulated clients?
Friesen is referring to actors hired by Sask Polytech’s Simulation Centre to portray different clients. Each client
had a different presenting problem, level of motivation and way of sharing their story.
“It’s difficult to simulate the dynamic that happens in real life between a client and a counsellor. When students are practicing with their peers or instructors, there’s a degree of comfort because you know it’s not a real client,” Friesen says.
Using live actors to simulate the clientcounsellor interaction was designed to give students an opportunity to work through the first stage of the counselling model, while at the same time adapting each client’s defense mechanisms, types of storytelling and process of building rapport. Students also practiced building cultural safety and being culturally responsive with clients.
COVID-19 prevented students’ from having face-to-face interactions, so Benn Hart and Wendy Wilson, both simulation technicians at Sask
Polytech, stepped up to help develop an experience that was as real as possible.
“With COVID, Sask Polytech had to move a lot of things to virtual platforms very quickly, so it’s been really busy in the Simulation Centre,” Hart says. “What we do often looks easy, but there’s a lot we have to do in the background to make it happen.”
The first step was meeting with Friesen to discuss her goals. “This was our first time working with the Addictions Counselling program, so we had a Zoom meeting with Joy to get a clear understanding of what she was looking for,” says Wilson. “We hired actors to fit her scenarios and brought them to our simulation centre in Saskatoon, where we could ensure contact and social distancing guidelines were followed. We worked with the actors on their roles and set up the rooms.”
Friesen met with the actors to brief them on
Junior Citizen of the Year Scholarship
For over the past four decades The Saskatchewan Weekly Newspapers Association, in partnership with SaskPower and with the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan, have recognized the youth of Saskatchewan through the Junior Citizen of the Year Award.
These prestigious awards are given to youth who:
• Have a positive lifestyle
• Have had the ability to overcome life’s challenges
• Have a strong sense of caring and responsibility
• Are dedicated to community and school
• Inspire others
• Are between the ages of 8 to 18
This year four deserving youth will receive $3000 bursaries to use towards their post-secondary education. Nominate someone from your community today.
Visit www.swna.com for further information and nomination forms
close March 31, 2021
the counselling model and the goals of the clinical lab. “I also encouraged them to ad lib. I wanted our students to learn to trust themselves, because a counsellor never knows what a client will say or how they will act,” she says.
The simulation rooms were equipped with cameras and the neces-
sary technology to allow remote log in to the virtual counselling sessions. Wilson and Hart provided onsite technical support, while Friesen and her students logged in from their homes. Each student completed a 30 to 40-minute simulated counselling session, followed by feedback from observing students and the actor. Friesen was able to view each session as it happened.
Based on student feed-
back, the virtual counselling sessions were a big success. “Our students loved having this opportunity,” Friesen says. “They say it really helped them understand the importance of staying grounded, of building the therapeutic alliance and of meeting the client where they are at.
The whole simulation experience was rich in learning and really built their confidence.”
Photo courtesy of Saskatchewan Polytechnic
A Guide to Post Secondary Education
Building connections at Brandon University
WrittenbytheBrandon University
BRANDON, Man. –
The past year has shown us how important it is to stay connected with families, friends and our community. Helping students build those strong connections is something that Brandon University does best.
As a growing university with 3,500 students from around the world, BU stays true to its prairie roots with a welcoming spirit and a commitment to delivering quality programs that prepare graduates for the opportunities and challenges of the future. Most BU classes have fewer than 20 students, allowing for a personalized education.
“Having small class sizes is probably what has helped me out the most,” said Elizabeth Glenn, a third-year
Physical Education student. “With professors working with you oneon-one you get to know each other, resulting in an amazing learning experience that helps you grow as a student and a person.”
The connections students make extend beyond the university. Brandon University’s Co-operative Education program offers the chance for students to develop their career skills. By integrating study terms with fulltime work terms at jobs related to their academic programs, students in
the Co-op program can earn while they learn.
Brandon University is also a great place for students to take part in world-class research, even at the undergraduate level. Right now, BU students are working with national and international experts on cancer detection, environmental protection, quantum computing and Indigenous health and education.
Extracurricular activities like the Student Leader program and more than 50 clubs and collectives create even more opportunities for
growth and friendships.
“As a recent graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History, joining the Student Leader program at Brandon University was one of the best decisions I made,” said Laura Davidson. “This program allowed me to meet many other students from different departments, which allowed me to form everlasting friendships.”
Laura’s not alone. More than 93 per cent of recent BU grads said that BU prepared them to excel. And 98 per cent said they’d heartily recommend BU.
There are plenty of choices at BU, with 19 undergraduate degree program among Arts, Education, Health Studies, Science and the School of Music.
“Students appreciate that they don’t have to travel far or move to a big city to get the edu-
cation that they’re looking for,” said Courtney Adams, BU’s Director of Recruitment and Retention. “We’ve got everything that you need right here.” Take a video tour of BU and book your virtual presentation today by visiting BrandonU.ca/ Your-Future.
