How to Decorate for Christmas: University Student Edition

How to Decorate for Christmas: University Student Edition

By: Maria Garcia Manzano, AEIC of the Quill

Photo Credits: Google Images

As November comes to an end and final exams are upon us, students need something to look forward

to. In my free time (when I don’t have to study or work on an assignment) I like to rearrange and

decorate my room. I still live at home with my parents and my room is relatively small, but I still find

ways to bring a little holiday spirit. I know that a lot of Brandon University students still live at home or

may be living in BU residence or may have gotten an apartment in Brandon. Don’t worry, my decoration

suggestions apply to all student living situations!

1. Keep it Green

It won’t feel like Christmas without a few pines, spruces and firs. Adding an artificial tree or even a

festive wreath will instantly make your room Christmassy. You can get them for dirt cheap on Amazon. If

space is an issue, why not tape some green tinsel to a wall in the shape of a tree to celebrate the holiday

season without much hassle? Throw in some teardrop swags or tinsel garlands to set the scene with the

rich tones of the fall season. Don’t forget to hang a mistletoe over the doorway for good luck!

2. Light it Up

String lights are a surefire way to brighten up your room when it comes to Christmas decoration ideas.

Bright fairy lights can be wrapped around your bed frame or draped across furniture to achieve that

festive glow. You can also string them across your ceiling or weave them in and out of empty glass

bottles for a fun centerpiece that doesn’t break the bank. Introduce holiday warmth to the room with a

scented candle or two. If you’re wary of smoke detectors, swap them for LED candles and a room spray

for the same effect.

You can also attach some family and friends’ pictures to the rope, so you don’t miss their presence and

relive the Christmas celebrated with them.

3. Go as big or as small as you want

The best part about Christmas decoration ideas is that there are no rules! You can hang up stockings

with candies and little treats for yourself/ your housemates or your family. Or you can play carols over

the speaker for a festive air.

These Christmas decoration ideas will not only add pizzazz to your room but also make it cozy and

welcoming for the holiday season.

Studying for End of Term Exams

Studying for End of Term Exams

by Ronnie Kayla Neiman

It is time to prepare for your final exams once again, and for another year, a majority of exams are being done online in order to keep social distancing. It can be difficult to study for an exam on a so-called normal year but it can certainly be even more so when everything, or close to everything has been done online. 

There are not too many options for in-person study sessions, unless you happen to live with others who are taking the same class. Not too many have that option. Some can choose to do an online study session where you can bounce ideas, questions and notes back and forth. Studying is defined as reading carefully with the intent to remember. However, it can also be attributed to writing as well. 

Studying in a group allows students to see different perspectives and possibly learn study habits. It can also be a lot easier to ask a question in a small group or when emailing classmates and/or instructors. 

Even if you decide to study on your own, be sure to bounce your information off of someone else, either a person you live with, or over an online format, video or chat. Studying is a commitment, so when you study, be sure to actually study. It can be quite easy to become distracted, so be sure to take breaks. 

Several tips on how to study when alone, or in a group, in whichever medium is available to you;

• Write point form important information

• Highlight keywords your instructor has mentioned frequently

• Write or type out questions related to your subject

• Ask yourself questions out loud (even if you are alone)— It helps!

• Create mock exams for yourself

• Email your instructor if you have any information you need clarified

Stay calm and don’t panic! Study well and you will do great!

Holiday Movies That Aren’t Really Holiday Movies

Holiday Movies That Aren’t Really Holiday Movies

By Cedric Bell

Photo Credit: rottentomatoes.com 

Holiday movies are hard to make suggestions about, because lists usually consist of the same couple of movies because there aren’t that many, and even fewer that stand the test of time and remain rewatchable year after year. That is why, instead of suggesting holiday movies, I will be suggesting holiday movies that people generally don’t consider holiday movies that actually are, at least in some sense. 

Die Hard

The status of Die Hard as a holiday movie is still often debated. Many people think it counts, and many people don’t. I for one champion it as a holiday movie, mostly so that I have a chance to watch Die Hard again every year. What often gets lost in the debate about Die Hard is that it is a really, really good movie. The action is special because it’s exciting but still believable and relies more on smarts than big set pieces. It also has some great performances and is a really fun movie overall.

The Nightmare Before Christmas

This one is also hotly debated because of its clashing settings. Is it a Christmas movie, or a Halloween movie? Is it both, or neither? The answer to that is; yes. The Nightmare Before Christmas is a great animated movie full of fun characters, great songs and captivating stop motion animation.

Gremlins

Gremlins is more of a horror comedy than a holiday movie, but it takes place around the holidays, so it counts. It has some really funny and disturbing scenes, an interesting premise, and while it often gets left out of holiday movie discourse, it is a great holiday movie.

Edward Scissorhands

This is one of those holiday movies that because of the subject matter, it is easy to forget it takes place around the holidays entirely. Still, it is a great movie with a lot of visual style, a truly original story, and a great gothic theme that differentiates it from a lot of holiday movies out there.

The Harry Potter Series

The Harry Potter movies are never really considered holiday movies, but there are multiple christmas scenes throughout that suggest they should be considered holiday movies. The early ones especially are pretty upbeat and festive, and are fan favorites for a reason.

Home Alone

Home alone takes place over the holidays and has a lot of Christmas iconography, so why isn’t it considered a holiday movie by some? Maybe because it’s more about a child defending his home with vicious booby traps than about holiday cheer. Still, it is a really fun movie with a lot of heart, and stands as one of my favourite mostly unofficial holiday movies, and one of my favorite movies in general.

Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts events return with Farewell to Fall

Media Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts events return with Farewell to Fall

After a hiatus due to pandemic constraints, Assiniboine Community College’s culinary events are

back, kicking off with a brand new event, Farewell to Fall.

BRANDON, Man. (November 16, 2021)—From the kitchen that delivered your local event favourites like Great Grey Owl Restaurant, Harvest on the Hill and Holiday Buffet, we’re introducing Farewell to Fall—an all-new culinary experience hosted at the Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts (MICA) on December 2. Tickets go on sale November 18 at 10 a.m.

“Assiniboine has long provided the community with remarkable culinary events,” said Tim Hore, Dean, School of Agriculture & Environment. “With Farewell to Fall, we hope to bolster our reputation as the host of ‘can’t miss events’ and continue that legacy.”

Farewell to Fall, a new event to the MICA event repertoire, includes a multi-course dinner, fused with selfserve appetizer and dessert action stations. The event promises a 5-star dining experience with the flair of flambé and other culinary show techniques. Along with dinner, guests will have the opportunity to peruse an evening market with seasonal products, such as jams, jellies and preserves made by students for purchase.

“We’re proud of the work that our MICA students put in each year to our many renowned events, so it’s

spectacular to see this new event on the books this winter,” said Hore. “This is a great learning experience for students, and we know the community will welcome the opportunity to enjoy what our MICA students have to offer once again.”

Guests at Farewell to Fall will experience the work and talents of Culinary Arts, Baking Foundations and Hotel and Restaurant Management students. The evening event will have four available seating times. Tickets are $60 and must be purchased in full table allotments of either two, four or six.

Visit assiniboine.net/farewelltofall for more information. To purchase tickets, call 204.725.8738 or

800.862.6307 ext 6516 starting at 10 a.m. on November 18. Guests must be fully vaccinated; proof of

vaccination and corresponding ID will be checked at the door.

About Assiniboine Community College

Assiniboine Community College has been providing exceptional learning experiences for more than 55 years and offers certificate, diploma and post-graduate programs across a variety of disciplines including culinary arts and hospitality, business, agriculture and environment, health and human services, and trades and technology. The college also delivers apprenticeship programming in a range of skilled trades disciplines.

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

comprehensive educational opportunities throughout Manitoba. The college also partners with many communities and organizations across the province to deliver customized education and training. Assiniboine’s annual provincial economic impact is $612 million.

Assiniboine Community College campuses are located on the traditional territories of Treaty No. 1 and Treaty No. 2, the shared traditional lands of Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, Dene and Anishinabek/Ojibwe peoples, and the homeland of the Métis Nation. We acknowledge their welcome to the students who seek knowledge here.

For more information, please contact:

Anya McNabb

Communications Specialist

Assiniboine Community College

204.868.5453

mcnabba@assiniboine.net

Winter Is Here

Winter Is Here

(Images taken one week apart)

by Ronnie Kayla Neiman

After having a rather hot summer and a very mild Autumn, winter has come to the prairies with a vengeance. Snow covers the ground, roads are still not fully plowed. The snow has created a mix of slush and ice. 

It can create some hazardous conditions. being both cold and slippery. Make sure you are wearing warm winter clothes. Also be sure to wear insulated boots, preferably with a good sole grip. It will help prevent slipping.Winter Weather Basics

While the sudden snowfall wasn’t considered to be a bad storm, it did create some issues with travelling and safety. 

A winter storm is an event in which the main types of precipitation are snow, sleet or freezing rain.

How can winter storms be dangerous?

Most deaths from winter storms are not directly related to the storm itself.

▪ People die in traffic accidents on icy roads.

▪ People die of heart attacks while shoveling snow.

▪ People die of hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold.

Everyone is potentially at risk during winter storms. The actual threat to you depends on your specific situation. Recent observations show that:

▪ Of injuries related to ice and snow:

▪ About 70% occur in automobiles.

▪ About 25% are people caught out in the storm.

▪ Majority are males over 40 years old.

▪ Of injuries related to exposure to cold:

▪ 50% are people over 60 years old.

▪ Over 75% are males.

▪ About 20% occur in the home.

How do winter storms form?

Just like any other storm at other times of the year, the right combination of ingredients is necessary for a winter storm to develop.

Three basic ingredients are necessary to make a winter storm:

▪ Cold air. Below freezing temperatures in the clouds and near the ground are necessary to make snow and/or ice.

▪ Lift. Something to raise the moist air to form the clouds and cause precipitation. An example of lift is warm air colliding with cold air and being forced to rise over the cold dome. The boundary between the warm and cold air masses is called a front. Another example of lift is air flowing up a mountainside.

▪ Moisture. To form clouds and precipitation. Air blowing across a body of water, such as a large lake or the ocean, is an excellent source of moisture.

Many students do have online classes during the pandemic but  there are those who do need to attend in-person classes. Just remember, dress warm, travel safely and help others when you can.

Hush - A Movie Review

Hush - A Movie Review 

By: Mallory Johnson 

Photo Credits: Google Images

I recently watched the Netflix horror movie Hush and enjoyed it! The film follows a deaf and mute author named Maddie who is home alone when a creepy masked man arrives at her house and begins to terrorize her. What makes the movie more intense is how Maddie does not know that there is a man outside of her home because she cannot hear him. Before I go any further: SPOILER ALERT, also, trigger warnings for death, blood and gore, stalking, murder, break and enter, jump scares, flashing lights, and forced isolation. The movie is directed by my favourite director: Mike Flanagan. He directed The Haunting of Bly Manor, The Haunting of Hill House, Doctor Sleep, Gerald’s Game, and Midnight Mass. The movie stars his wife, Kate Siegel (Hill House, Bly Manor), Samantha Sloyan (Midnight Mass, Grey’s Anatomy), John Gallagher Jr (10 Cloverfield Lane, Short Term 12), Michael Trucco (Hunter Killer, Midnight Mass), and Emma Graves (Pitch Perfect, Caged No More). The movie worked well with its small cast, which I find very interesting. There are some Midnight Mass easter eggs in Hush: Maddie and her neighbour talk about Maddie’s first book...called Midnight Mass. The neighbour, played by Samantha Sloyan (the main character in Midnight Mass), says she loved Erin and Riley. Kate Siegel played Erin in the show, and Riley is a major character. Maddie is also seen writing a Midnight Mass sequel throughout the movie. Fun fact: Mike Flanagan originally started writing a Midnight Mass book but did not finish it. He then tried to get it created as a movie but failed and finally made it a Netflix show. I also noticed that there was a Doctor Sleep easter egg, as Hush came out three years before Doctor Sleep, which Mike also directed. 

           I loved how the movie was short, but it still packed a punch and was scary. I highly recommend watching with subtitles on because there is sign language, and subtitles were necessary. The themes of isolation set the scene for a scare. There were plot twists that I did not expect in this movie. As someone who is not the biggest fan of horror because I scare easily, this one scared me but not too bad. If you are paranoid about someone breaking into your home while you cannot hear them, I do not recommend watching. It was a good idea to watch Hush in October because it is a wonderfully spooky season choice. I liked how some parts of the movie had little to no sound to force the audience to be put in Maddie’s shoes and to feel her fear. Hush puts a good spin on the slasher genre and adds home invasion and disability. 

           Overall, I enjoyed watching Hush. It is a perfect movie to watch on Halloween this year! It is graphic at times and rated R, so keep that in mind. I give it a strong 10/10 and cannot wait to see more from Mike Flanagan and Kate Siegel!

Summit 2021: Disrupt and Reconstruct

PRESS RELEASE 

OCTOBER 20, 2021 

Summit 2021: Disrupt and Reconstruct 

National Conference on Queer and Trans Health 

Takes Place Virtually Oct. 27-29 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About CBRC 

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

Press Contact 

For interviews, please contact: 

Michael Ianni 

CBRC’s Media Relations Officer 

michael@praid.ca 

Halloween 2021

Halloween 2021

By Ronnie Kayla Neiman

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ticket prices are as follows:

1 ticket for $2.00

3 tickets for $5.00

10 tickets for $8.00

Or

$10 for ONE entry into the Weiming Zhao painting 

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

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

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

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

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

My Personal Study Tips

My Personal Study Tips

By Maria Garcia Manzano, AEIC of The Quill

Photo Credits: Maria Garcia Manzano

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

1. Develop a Daily Routine: 

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

2. Study with Friends:

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

3. Create a Super-Study Space:

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

4. Review Material Before Each Class:

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

5. Prioritize Your Work and Relate it to You!

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

ADES is 20 Years Old at BU!

ADES is 20 Years Old at BU!

By Ronnie Kayla Neiman

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

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

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

Verity by Colleen Hoover - A Book Review

Verity by Colleen Hoover - A Book Review

By: Mallory Johnson

Photo Credits: Google Images

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

read at times.

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

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

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

Movie Review

Movie Review

By: Kiersten Garbutt

Photo Credits: Google Images

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

surprising without spoiling too much.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Media Release

www.assiniboine.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Assiniboine to deliver new tuition-free, Heavy Duty

Technician program

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

enrolled in the program.

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

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

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

environment.”

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

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

visit assiniboine.net/heavydutyTF.

About Assiniboine Community College

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

offers certificate, diploma and post-graduate programs across a variety of disciplines including culinary

arts and hospitality, business, agriculture and environment, health and human services, and trades and

technology. The college also delivers apprenticeship programming in a range of skilled trades disciplines.

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

comprehensive educational opportunities throughout Manitoba. The college also partners with many

communities and organizations across the province to deliver customized education and training.

Assiniboine’s annual provincial economic impact is $612 million.

Assiniboine Community College campuses are located on the traditional territories of Treaty No. 1 and

Treaty No. 2, the shared traditional lands of Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, Dene and Anishinabek/Ojibwe

peoples, and the homeland of the Métis Nation. We acknowledge their welcome to the students who

seek knowledge here.

For more information, please contact:

Kevin Poirier

Dean, Trades

Assiniboine Community College

poirierk3888@assiniboine.net

204.724.0698

www.assiniboine.net

Human Milk: Ultimate Superfood & Personalized Medicine

MEDIA ADVISORY / PSA 

For Immediate Release 

October 1, 2021 

Human Milk: Ultimate Superfood & Personalized Medicine 

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

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

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

Registration is free and open to everyone! 

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

Tuesday, October 5, 2021 

7:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Central Time 

Featuring (bios attached): 

Dr. Meghan Azad, MILC co-Director 

Dr. Merilee Brockway, Postdoctoral Fellow, Azad Lab 

Carol Dyck, Instructor, Douglas College Perinatal Program 

Dr. Katherine Kearns, Family Physician, Winnipeg Breastfeeding Centre 

Janet Macaulay, Midwife, Winnipeg Regional Health Authority 

Natalie Rodriguez, MILC Operations Director 

Sarah Turner, PhD Candidate, Azad Lab 

MEDIA ADVISORY / PSA 

Biographies 

Dr. Meghan Azad, PhD | MILC co-Director 

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

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

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

MEDIA ADVISORY / PSA 

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

Janet Macaulay 

Midwife, Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA) 

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

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

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

MEDIA ADVISORY / PSA 

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

About Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba 

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

For more information: 

Katherine (Kat) W. Fox 

kfox@goodbear.ca 

204-330-2294 

goodbear.ca  

Attending Classes

Attending Classes

by Mary Okorie

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

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

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

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

Mental Health Resources

Mental Health Resources

by Kiersten Garbutt

(Image Credit: Creative Commons)

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

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

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

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

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

Back to school

Back to school

By Kiersten Garbutt

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

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

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

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

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

Campus Bookstore

Campus Bookstore

By Ronnie Kayla Neiman

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

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

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

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

Winning Shot Contest

Winning Shot Contest

by Ronnie Kayla Neiman

(Photo Credit: Creative Commons_ ccpixs.com)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brandon University Co-op Program

Brandon University Co-op Program

by Ronnie Kayla Neiman

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

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

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

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

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