The Light In The Dark: Angel Dresses

The not for profit organization, Manitoba Angel Dresses organization, is hosting a booth at the Shoppers Mall here in Brandon on November 27th from 9:30 am until 9 pm. Jennifer Neiman, group leader for Dauphin and area for Manitoba Angel Dresses will be available to answer any questions. This institution creates bereavement outfits for angel babies. Manitoba Angel Dresses is volunteer driven, and all volunteers believe in the vision and mission statement; “Our vision and mission is to ease the stress on a grieving family by providing the family a beautiful item lovingly created to clothe their precious Angel in.” All Angel items that the volunteers of this organization created are gifted to grieving families while any charges incurred are covered by Manitoba Angel Dresses and its members. Many of the Angel items and dresses are created from donated wedding gowns and bridesmaid dresses.

The booth at the Shoppers Mall aims to educate others on what the organization stands for, why these dresses are being made and to find more volunteers. Volunteers can be those who can sew, crochet, knit, and have many other talents that are used by the organization. At this time, they are not seeking dresses as donations, but are looking for ribbons, threads, and various other items to embellish the angel dresses with. Anyone who wishes to volunteer should go to the booth or to contact the Manitoba Angel Dresses organization. Email them at info.manitobaangeldress.com, and a response should be received within 24 hours.

More information can be found at the Manitoba Angel Dresses Facebook page or at their website; manitobaangeldresses.com. Manitoba Angel dresses has an inspiring vision to help those who are grieving, and these volunteers gain wonderful experience and knowledge from working with those who wish to lessen the burden of grieving families.

Applying For Online Scholarships On BU Website

In case students haven’t had the chance to check their school email in the last few days here’s an important update for you; scholarships, awards, and bursary applications are now open to students via the student information portal. 

The student information portal can be found on Brandon University’s website homepage, simply scroll down a bit and under the heading “Student Resources” click the subheading “Student Information” which will then load a login screen. Enter your username- not your entire email- along with your password. Once logged in go over to the “Apply for Scholarships & Bursaries” tab, then select “Add Award”. There will be an option that simply says “Apply” once you click that select the “Apply Now” option to narrow the result to awards and scholarships that the student has to apply for themselves. There are some awards listed that won’t have this option, the reason being that the recipients of these funds are determined by the various departments. 

There’s a filter available to sort out different aspects of the awards and scholarships to be more so catered towards your specific eligibility, just be sure to read all the information listed next to any scholarships to find out the criteria. Some scholarships are reserved for a department while others are based on other requirements such as financial need and there are one’s that will require supporting documents. 

Click on the “Apply Now” button once a scholarship or award has been selected, the screen will then go back to the scholarships and awards homepage but additional scholarships and awards can be selected and applied for. Only a single copy of any supporting documents is required. Remember to submit all of the required documents on time, if documents aren’t received by the deadline students won’t be considered. Supporting documents can be uploaded after the initial submission of the application, just be aware of any deadlines. 

Review the application to make sure everything’s accurate, then complete the “Self Declared Budget Form,” read the Privacy Information, complete the declaration, then click submit. Ta da! You’ve successfully completed your application. 

Keep in mind there are over two hundred different scholarships and awards. Even if you might be doubtful as to whether or not you might find one that you’re eligible for it never hurts to check. 

Did this article not make any sense? No worries, just go the Brandon University website and select the “Scholarships and Awards” heading, on this page there’ll be an option to read through a step by step process for applying for any scholarships. 

Grim Acres: Face Your Fears

Do you consider yourself brave? A horror movie buff who thinks they are ready for anything? Are you ready to face your fears?

Who doesn’t like getting scared for a good cause? Grim Acres Scare Aware Cancer is open this year from October 25-28th. Their hours are 6:00p.m.-11:00p.m. with a no scare hour from 6:00p.m.-7:00p.m. Amber and Brian Sutherland, who put this haunt on every year, both had cancer affect their lives and they acknowledge that it has touched the lives of most people. They put on Grim Acres Scare Away Cancer to raise money and awareness for the Canadian Cancer Society. 

Getting into the event is free, but donations are accepted at the door for the Canadian Cancer Society (don’t be a jerk, donate some money). They also accept donations of non-perishables for the Samaritan House. 100% of what is made in profits goes to the Canadian Cancer Society. 

According to the Grim Acres website it will take about 5-10 minutes to get through the various haunts, depending on the group ahead of you. They have a concession which sells hot dogs, popcorn, hot chocolate and other items with these profits also going to the Canadian Cancer Society. The haunts are in covered areas, so they are open rain (snow) or shine. Visitors are asked not to take pictures in the haunts and to not touch the props or volunteers. There is also a haunted maze. Every year they make Grim Acres more terrifying by adding props and new twists. This year’s theme is Face Your Fears, and this place leaves you feeling haunted well after you’ve gone home. 

According to the Facebook page for Grim Acres on the 26th Kickin’ Axe Throwing LTD will be at Grim Acres! Being terrified and throwing axes? Sounds great! Grim Acres also does themes for each day they are open. On the 25th the theme is Throwback Thursday, on the 26th it is Freaky Costume Day, 27th is Zombie Saturday and the 28th is Superhero Costume Day! If you plan on going to Grim Acres you are welcome to dress up in the themes.

 There is also a carnEVIL area for children, with over 20 kid friendly games, open from 6:00p.m.-9:00p.m. each day Grim Acres is open. The carnEVIL is free to play, also by donation! Wayyyyy cheaper than those fair games kids love, and donations go to a good cause. There will also be mini golf, laser tag and a bouncy castle if the weather permits. 

To get to Grim Acres: Head west out of Brandon going toward Kemnay. Turn south before the bridge at Kemnay (you know, the one semi’s constantly think they can fit under) onto road 117W (Stanley Road). Drive 4.5 miles to 52030 Stanley Road. 

In the past Grim Acres has done other events to raise money for cancer. This year they did a Brave the Shave to Conquer Cancer World Record Attempt on October 6th which was held at the Roadhouse. They attempted to break the world record for the most heads shaved in one hour by one person. Quentin Derhak, a local barber, was the person in charge of the head-shaving and he needed to shave 76 heads to beat the record. There were also raffle draws, and the final amount the event raised was $18,366.68!

Upcoming Sleep Hygiene Workshops

Many students on campus report struggling with sleep related issues.  Some of the common issues are not getting enough sleep, struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep, as well as struggling with anxiety and stress that negatively impacts their sleep. In the spring of 2017 counsellors for Brandon University, Sherry Sawatzky-Dyck and Marsha Harris, brought the National College Health Assessment survey to Brandon University.  The survey documented that 27.6% of students indicated sleep difficulties that were negatively impacting their academic performance. To deal with this common issue for students, two workshops have been scheduled; Monday October 29th at 1:30 P.M. and Wednesday November 21st at 2:30 P.M. Both sessions take place in the A.E. McKenzie Building in room 005, and students need only attend one if they do wish to attend the workshop.

The purpose of these workshops is to support students in learning new skills or techniques to create healthy sleep habits. Students who have been struggling with sleep can attend this session and receive beneficial tips that can be used to help themselves. Having a healthy sleep is important for physical and mental wellness.  A chronic lack of sleep may have a strong possibility of negative impact on daily performance, ability to concentrate, well-being and mood. Sleep is something that students do sometimes struggle with in order to complete everything they need to do in a day. It can be difficult to balance school and have the proper quality of sleep needed to be healthy.

There are a number of helpful resources available regarding sleep hygiene and how to improve it. If students are unable to attend any of the workshops, they may wish to do some personal research into sleep hygiene. When asked about ways to start improving sleep hygiene, Marsha Harris, BU Counselor at Student Services replied that one thing students can try right away is limiting their screen time before bed, it’s a simple tip but can make a big difference.

In these workshops, students will learn about healthy sleep routines, the current research regarding sleep routines, some hands-on tools to try at home, as well as receive a sleep diary, and handouts related to specific sleep issues in order to help students practice better sleep hygiene on their own. Whether you practice good or bad sleep hygiene is up to you but if you want to get a better night’s rest, the answer often begins with improving your sleep hygiene.

BUAS Bake Sale

On October 31st the Brandon University Anthropological Society (BUAS) will be doing a bake sale in the Mingling Area from 9:00a.m.-3:00p.m. Stop by and grab some delicious baked goods to get you through the day (calories don’t count on Halloween). Better yet, grab a cookie for your Prof to make up for that terrible assignment you handed in, it probably won’t get you a better grade but it’s worth a shot! 

 Some of the money raised from the bake sale will go towards funding for Field School opportunities for Anthropology students at Brandon University. Field School can be expensive, especially because many are not local, and BUAS wants to help make it a little more accessible for interested future anthropologists. This is the clubs first event of the year and the beginning of a new start for the club. After being inactive last year there is a hope to revive it and bring awareness about anthropology as a discipline. 

BUAS will also be putting on a Meet and Greet with Dr. Holland, Dr. Varley, and Alicia Gooden, who is teaching Archaeology classes in the winter term. If you are registered for any Anthropology classes, the Meet and Greet will be a great event to attend to get to know the professors and other Anthropology students. The Meet and Greet will be held on November 20th, with a time and location TBA. 

Pro Series Concert Schedule

Over the course of a semester the music professors, student and special guests host a variety of different events and concerts for the community.

The 2018-2019 season marks the Brandon Chamber Players’20th anniversary-two decades of unforgettable evening filled with time-honoured masterpieces and newly composed gems, performed by some of Canada’s most esteemed musicians.

Locations and musicians

BCP——Brandon Chamber Players

KUC  ——Knox United Church   

LLCP——Lady of the lake Café and Pub

LWRH——Lorne Watson Recital Hall,Brandon university School of music

NMF——New music festival

TMS——The music studio,940 Rosser avenue

WMCA——Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium

WSO——Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra

2018

Tuesday, October 30th, 7:30 PM. Pro Series: Eve Egoyan, LWRH.

Monday, November 5th, 7:30 PM. Pro Series Subscribers: Ethan Ardelli, TMS.

Tuesday November 20th, 7:30 PM. BCP: Lieding Man, LWRH.

Sunday November 25th, 3:00 PM. Holiday Tour, WMCA.

Tuesday December 4th, 8:00 PM. Pro Series: Canzona, Pacific Baroque Orchestra, KUC.

2019

Tuesday, January 22nd, 7:30pm BCP: Matt Steckler and Friends, LLCP

Tuesday, January 29th, 7:30pm Pro Series: Enemble Made in Canada, LWRH

Sunday, February 10th, 3:00pm WSO: Cameron Crozman, ‘cello WMCA.

Tuesday, February 12th, 7:30pm Pro Series: The Faculty Concert, LWRH

Tuesday, February 26th, 7:30pm Pro Series: Yuri Hooker LWRH

Tuesday, March 5th, 7:30pm Pro Series: Jeremy Dutcher, LWRH

Tuesday, March 12th, 7:30pm BCP: “That’s All Folks!”, LWRH

Tuesday, March 19th and Wednesday March 20th, 7:30pm NMF: Megumi Masaki and Guests, LWRH

The Pro Series

Single tickets

$15 Adults

$12 Students,Seniors & Alumni

Subscriptions

$75 Adults

$40 Students,Seniors & Alumni

Brandon Chamber Players 

Single Tickets

$40 General admissions

$15 Students

Subscription

$120 General admission

$40 Students

Admission to the pro series’ homecoming concert(October 11) is complimentary for registers Brandon University Homecoming guests.

Admission to the Ethan Ardelli concert at the Music Studio is free to BU music students and pro series subscribers only, as seating is limited.

Admission to all new music festival concerts is free.

HLC Events

With a new school year, the Healthy Living Centre is gearing up for another fitness filled year. As I write this article it is the HLC’s “Try it free week” which began on the 9th and ends on the 16th. While this event will be over by the time you get to this article dear readers, don’t panic- as a student you get to use the gym free year-round (okay, free is a loose term, you paid for it in your tuition). Take advantage and hit the gym! 

What’s going on at the HLC this year? There are a few different fitness classes that are going on this year: Joga Mondays at 7pm, 50+ Club Monday’s at 9am, 65+ Club Wednesday’s at 9:30am, Kickboxing Tuesday’s at 7:15pm, Shred and Shine Boot Camp Tuesday’s and Thursday’s at 6pm, Fundamentals of Yoga Monday’s at 6pm, Yoga Flow Mondays and Wednesdays at 7am, and Zumba Wednesdays at 5pm. You can register for these classes online or at the HLC, heads up-there is a cost associated with these classes! 

What about If fitness classes aren’t your thing? Volleyball! On November 23025 the HLC is holding a Block n’ Roll Volleyball Tournament. There will be co-ed divisions, and women’s division games. According to their website the co-ed half of the tourney is Friday-Saturday while the women’s event is Saturday and Sunday. Teams can register online, and the cost is $200 per team. Teams will play a minimum of 5 games, with cash prizes for the top team in each division. 

Are you a team sport person? There are also intramural sports offered at the HLC! Right now, co-ed basketball, co-ed volleyball and co-ed soccer are listed on the HLC website, with the note these are adult, student only teams. 

The HLC also offers sport and recreation club. Pickleball, badminton, table tennis and dance club are all offered and appear to be free for students, but non-students must pay. This is also something one can register for online. 

So, if you are someone who is super into fitness, sports, or team activities head over to the HLC website, (or actually go over and talk to the real humans who work there) and find out more about all the awesome activities you can take part in! 

Fall Graduation

Fall Graduation occurs the day this issue comes out- October 16th, 2018! This graduation had no ceremony. Congratulations to everyone graduating this October! You did it! Take some time to celebrate before you start stressing about your student debt!  

With a graduation coming and going, it brings up super important questions: 

Do you know how to apply for graduation? The steps you need to take? Keep reading and you can find out!

To graduate in February of 2019 the deadline to apply is December 14th, 2018. If you want to graduate in May/June of 2019 the deadline to apply is March 22, 2019. While there are no ceremonies for graduations in February or October, grads are invited to join the May convocation ceremony. 

Students are encouraged to meet with an advisor or the Chair of their major to make sure their credits are in order. Students must meet the requirements of their Major, Minor, and Liberal Education requirements. You need 90 credit hours for a three-year degree and 120 for a four year. GPA’s need to be at a minimum of 2.0 in the major, minor and general areas.  

You apply for graduation online and the dates I stated above are on the page you apply on so that’s handy to check out!  When you apply online you will get an email confirming your application was received, and you keep checking back on the website to see if your application has been approved. All of these things should be something a student is constantly making sure of throughout their degree so there are no surprises at the end! When it comes time to apply for graduation have someone double check your credits! 

To graduate your final grades need to be available and all fees need to be paid. Turns out the university won’t let you leave if you owe them money. According to BU’s website if you have any outstanding money owed to the University you will not get your degree or transcripts. So, get that shit figured out ASAP if you plan on graduating this year. 

Okay, now you’ve applied, and your request has been accepted, now what?

What do you wear? Grads are required to wear blue caps, blue gowns, a tassel, and the hood in the colours of your department. You need to rent these items from a specific company that Brandon University works with.  These items MUST be pre-ordered if you plan on attending your graduation ceremony. This can be done online and doing it early saves you a ton of stress (it also saves money, if you grab your gown the day of grad it is more expensive). When you come into grad on the day of and you did not order a gown ahead of time, there are a limited number of extra ones, so you may end up with one that is not the correct size. There is also no guarantee there will be enough hoods for your department if you do not pre-order. 

Remember you will be sitting in the gym for your ceremony so wear something under your gown that is light, or you are going to be a sweaty mess by the time it is your turn to come up and get your degree. 

So, in summary; Check your credits, apply online, and once your application has been accepted ORDER YOUR ATTIRE! 


Women’s Collective Update

On October 3rd the Women’s Collective had their second meeting of the 2018/2019 academic year. Part of the discussion was the desire to offer a reimbursement for birth control as many are often not covered by Insurance such as an IUD or the shot. It was decided this would be something the executive would look into and attempt to see what funds could be set aside for such an endeavour. 

Some activities planned for this year discussed in the previous article were a topic of conversation at the latest meeting, and some dates were set for certain events. One of these events will be with SERC on October 23. The Sexuality Education Resource Centre (SERC) will be coming to campus with reproductive health information and resources. 

At the beginning of the Winter semester there will be more reproductive tabling, with raffle prizes and hopefully a resident gynecologist to talk to students and answer questions. Alexandra Mackay who is one of the Women’s Collective members in charge of organizing the event said “Reproductive health is important because most education systems lack a consistent and scientifically founded approach to the topic. The subject is usually shrouded in shame or vagueness that perpetrates myths and misunderstandings. And a university campus is often where all the misinformation culminates to create real-life consequences.”

On November 23rd the Collective will be holding a wine and paint night. Last year a paint night was put on at Forbidden Flavours and went over well so the hope is this year will have a similar turn out. 

Erotic Bingo is another event that has been put on previously in partnership with Flora Cowan. This event goes over well and is lots of fun, so it will be held again this year with a date to be announced. 

Take Back the Night is scheduled to be revisited in second term with the hope to be happening in late spring due to busy schedules and weather as noted in the previous Quill article. Planning will begin in February so if this is an event you are interested in helping with please contact the Collective! 

With some for sure dates set, the Women’s Collective is excited for another great year and welcomes any new members to come to the next meeting, so watch for a meeting announcement on Facebook!  

Chris Hadfield Coming To Brandon

On October 12, Chris Hadfield, the first Canadian to walk in space, will be giving a speech on “An Astronauts Guide to Life on Earth”. This talk will revolve around the idea of how to think like an astronaut.

Chris Hadfield was born on August 29th, 1959 in Sarina, Ontario, Canada. Commander Hadfield was one of the top test pilots for the United States Military. He was the first Canadian to live aboard the International Space Station, doing research on human biology and  studying the effects of low gravity on the body. On expedition 35, Chris Hadfield became the commander of the I.S.S. after the crew of expedition 34 had departed. Commander Hadfield is also an author with many popular books, to name a few, “You Are Here: Around the World in 92 Minutes,” and “An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth.” Commander Hadfield has also received many awards and special honours such as, the Order of Canada, N.A.S.A. Exceptional Service Medal, and Meritorious Service Cross.

When Commander Hadfield was in space, he would share insight to life aboard the ISS and some truly captivating photos via Twitter. Commander Hadfield made perhaps one of the most amazing music videos ever while in space. He played “Space Oddity,” as a tribute to David Bowie. The video was released on May 12, 2013. The video, as of today has over 41 million views. Commander Hadfield would even get the attention of David Bowie himself. David Bowie was quoted as saying “It’s possibly the most poignant version of the song ever created.”

Commander Hadfield is currently a retired astronaut who began his retirement as of July 3, 2013. Commander Hadfield’s retirement has been rewarding and busy. He spends his time travelling the world sharing his knowledge and experience through public speaking events. Most recently, Commander Hadfield has started a master class where he teaches space exploration. 

New Weed Policies 

Following the board meeting on September 22nd Brandon University has developed two new policies that deal with the legalization of cannabis on October 17th. The purpose of the first policy is to provide set guidelines for the permitted use and consumption of cannabis on the Brandon University campus. In accordance with Manitoba legislation the policy states that “The use or consumption of cannabis is not permitted on University property, including residence property, with the exception of medical purposes where the requirement for use is declared and appropriate accommodations for the use has been established, as per policy.” 

The policy is accommodating to students who have their green cards and are using or consuming marijuana for medical purposes. If this is the case, Michelle Magnusson will be working with students to help them create a plan for how they can continue to use or consume marijuana in compliance with the new policies. Michelle can be found at Student Accessibility Services in room 106-2 A. E. McKenzie building. Lack of compliance to this new Board of Governors policy will result in disciplinary action which will vary in severity depending on the degree of the offence and if the offence is continuously repeated. 

The second policy that was approved is the Harm Reduction Policy which is an Administrative policy that focuses on the health, safety and well-being of students on the Brandon University campus. Katie Gross, the Dean of Students, is promoting “responsible use” of marijuana. She believes that education about the new policies and also about marijuana itself is crucial to maintaining a safe and healthy campus environment for all students, faculty and staff. There will be an information session about responsible use on October 15th. More information about this can be found on the BU website. 

Both policies are available to be viewed online on the Brandon University website or can be found in physical copy at the Office of the President, Room 116 Clark Hall.  

World Mental Health Day

Light Up The World Purple day is coming up on Oct 10th and the “World Mental Health Day,” has been officially signed by the Mayor of Brandon as the date that the city of Brandon recognizes as a day for mental health. Light Up The World Purple phenomena and “World Mental Health Day,” is an international day created to raise awareness about mental health in memory of Canadian Amanda Todd. 

Here is a list of the resources available to everyone here in Brandon, for anyone who might find themselves needing some support. 

First, Brandon University has it’s own counsellors whose information can be found at ww.brandonu.ca/personal-counselling. Contact information for booking appointments can be found on the website.

The Brandon Friendship Centre specializes in aboriginal counselling and cultural practices, with an open door policy for both aboriginal and non-aboriginal people alike. With services consisting of individual counselling for adults, sharing circles, and anger management, the Brandon Friendship Centre offers support for various needs. Their full information and services can be found on their website at www.brandonfriendshipcentre.com.

Anxiety Disorders Association of Manitoba possesses a great deal of information about anxiety, what it is and how it may manifest in some individuals, success stories, as well as contact information for different services in case of an emergency. Their website also has helpful tools like relaxing audio and videos for visitors to access. Find them at www.adam.mb.ca

The Canadian Mental Health Association has educational documents made to supply information on various topics ranging from Mental Health and Smoking, Stress, Understanding Mental Illness, and information on where to find help. Their website is mbwpg.cmha.ca

Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba is another resource that covers a range of mental illnesses. They have workshops and programs, Family Navigation, postpartum assistance, SAD lights, support groups, and are familiar with cases in addictions, bullying, bipolar disorder, depression, self-care and others you can find on their website at www.mooddisordersmanitoba.ca 

Klinic is a resource for mental health, dedicated to helping “people of every age, background, ethnicity, gender identity, and socio-economic circumstance.” A crisis line in available along the top of their website. Find them at www.klinic.mb.ca 

Anxiety Disorders Association of Manitoba supplies the following phone numbers in case of an emergency:

KLINIC Crisis Line: 204-786-8686

Manitoba Suicide Line: 1-877-435-7170

Crisis Stabilization Unit: 204-940-3633

Mobile Crisis Service: 204-940-1781

Youth Mobile Crisis Team: 204-949-4777

Seneca House: 204-942-9276 (7:00 P.M. - 11:00 P.M.)

Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868

MB Farm & Rural Support Services: 1-866-367-3276

Take care of yourself this year and try to recognize when you need that extra bit of help and support. It can be difficult when you’re busy but remember to check in on your friends and colleagues. Even if you don't need this type of information maybe one of your friends could use it. Share the knowledge, share the love.

LGBTTQ* Collective!

            For those of you unaware, nestled on the second floor of the Knowles Douglas Building is Brandon University’s LGBTTQ* Collective. The best way to get in contact with them is through their Facebook page at www. Facebook.com/bulgbttq. Office hours are of this moment undecided. If you’re looking to join or get involved in any way there’s currently a meeting set for October 12th from 6:00- 9:00p.m. with the location undetermined at this point, keep an eye on their Facebook page for any updates. Stefon stressed that “it’ll be a real casual, it’s more or less people just need to know that I’m leaving so I’m hoping that we can get a few folks out this year where more of an actual collective could start and then that collective would continue on once I leave.” The involvement is extremely casual, time commitments are up to members, if times get busy for students there’s no expectation that the collective would take priority over school studies or work. Opportunities for small scale as well as large scale planning are available, “It’s whatever you want the collective can be.”

While small, their office is host to various resources open for the Brandon University student body. Books on sexual education on topics aside from the cisgender heterosexual material often taught in schools are available. Along with this, Stefon current head of the collective explained that how though they don’t have a fortune set aside, they do have funds for “any students faculty or staff who are maybe starting a transition… If we can help in a small way to get the ball rolling that’s cool. That’s one of the things we do that not a lot of folks know about.” They also offer knowledge about LGBTTQ* friendly business and people in Brandon and safe sex materials ranging from condoms both internal and external, as well as dental dams.

            Their plans for the year are completely at the behest of the collective. New and returning members will determine what happens throughout the school term. While Stefon was thinking of holding another social after the huge success of the last one, the collective he explained, is completely open for new ideas and plans any members may bring. “Other than that, come to the meeting!”

Arts And Culture: The Hard Work Of BU Students

Brandon’s growing arts community is currently hosting three exhibitions, with BU fine arts students dominating two of them. The Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba’s main gallery is displaying the work of current BUFASA (Brandon University Fine Arts Students Association) students and recent graduates including Albyn Carias, Timothy Brown, and Melanie Barnett with the show curated by recent graduate Jessie Januska. The community gallery at the AGSM is displaying the favourite works of their famed and legendary Figure Drawing Studio, for whom I have been lucky to have modeled and mused, with paintings and sketches by Neil Strouffer, Curt Shoultz, and Kurt Noll, among others, gracing the corridor.

Upcoming is another BUFASA show opening October 11th at the Glen P. Sutherland

Gallery of Art titled “In The (K)now” which explores recent themes worked on by BU Fine Art Students, curated by the department of Visual and Aboriginal Art. The show opens at 7 pm and runs from the 11th to the last day on the 26th. The AGSM and GPS are the two bigger galleries in Brandon, providing a wealth of art events to the general public and BU students. The BFA program sees multiple students graduate every year and it’s graduates have gone on to residency programs in Banff, China, and France. Courses provided include but are not limited to, ceramics, painting, drawing, printmaking, and performance art. Future plans for the GPS currently include upcoming thesis shows of senior BFA students with times announced later in the semester.

Women ’s Collective on Campus!

            Brandon University’s Women’s Collective is a group of exceptional women motivated to improving life on campus for everyone. The Women’s Collective president, for the second consecutive year, is Jenna English, a passionate intersectional feminist dedicated to representing self-identifying women’s rights on campus. Vice president this year is Jenna Murray, a feminist focused on bringing together like minded people and promoting awareness of social issues.

            Every year, the Women’s Collective offers a resource library, free condoms, sanitary supplies, discounted pregnancy tests and diva cups, sexual health resources, as well as access to phone and internet services. The Women’s Collective is also involved with the “No Means No” campaign for the promotion of positive sexual relationships. (Let’s make one thing clear: Consensual sex, is just sex. The idea that there is any other type of sex is ludicrous. Non-consensual sex? The word you’re looking for is rape. Respect all people’s choices and their dignity.)

            Some of this year’s goals include; promoting awareness of sexual health through a day dedicated to reproductive health, as well as events that foster social relations including paint night and trivia night. The annual event “Take Back The Night” – a march to end violence against women with the intention of feeling safe at night – will not run this fall semester, but will hopefully take place in the spring.

            If there are any causes or events that you are passionate about and would like to see the Women’s Collective take on, please consider joining to make them happen. More members make planning and implementing events easier and more enjoyable. Membership in the Women’s Collective is open to the entire BU community, including men. Although male members do not have voting rights (sucks doesn’t it) their input is valued and appreciated.

            You can connect with the Women’s Collective on Facebook (Brandon University Women’s Collective) and Instagram (buwomenscollective). The Women’s Collective office is located on the 2nd floor of the Knowles-Douglas Building. Office hours will be announced soon. The next collective meeting is Wednesday October 3rd at 5pm in the KDC boardroom – all are welcome.

            And finally, to answer the burning question that may be distracting you from taking any substance from this article; yes, we’re all feminists here. To quote Beyoncé quoting Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, “feminist: a person who believes in the social, economic, and political equality of the sexes”.

BU’s Discrimination And Harassment Prevention Policy

                In this upcoming academic year BU is making a concerted effort to combat discrimination and harassment on campus. The Brandon University Sexual Violence Education and Prevention Office is ensuring through its “I Believe You” campaign, which it launched right at the beginning of the year, that sexual assault is treated in the proper serious manner. The idea is to encourage victims of sexual assault to come forward and disclose the trauma they suffered, thereby beginning the healing process and seeing to it that justice is served. This year will mark the last of the campaigns 4 year running period. All together the participation throughout the years, numbering in the millions, would indicate that the program was a huge success. The reason for this campaign is that many victims of sexual harassment are reluctant to talk about what they went through by fear of facing disbelief and ridicule if they do take a stand. It is in combating this phenomena that the campaign was particularly successful as there has been an increase in reporting of Sexual Harassment cases.

                 On the 11th of September there was a #IBelieveYou selfie booth set up on the Courtyard where students would stop to take a picture with a temporary #IBelieveYou tattoo which could later be uploaded to social media. The Farm 101.1 FM as well as Star 94.7 FM radio stations were on the scene as well handing out free Subway coupons amongst other stuff for those that decided to stop by. Furthermore Bystander training was held on campus to teach students more about how to intervene and prevent sexual assault from happening.         

                According Brandon Universities Discrimination and Harassment Prevention Policy "every member of the University community must adhere to University policies and support the aim of the University to create a climate of understanding and respect for the dignity and rights of all,” as well as "support the University's efforts to ensure that the working and learning environment is free of discrimination and harassment". With this in mind all of us should take care that we do our best to create a campus that is a safe environment for everyone to study at. It is events the “I Believe You” campaign that can provide the training and awareness needed to effectively approach a case and correctly deal with it. We all benefit from the awareness surrounding the struggles of different people. It both ensures that actions are taken to reduce the number of victims created and allows those already victimized to heal.

 

New Fines in Manitoba for Weed 

As Canada prepares for the legalization of marijuana across the country on October 17th new policies are being developed in each province and territory to control the growth, distribution and possession of the drug. In Manitoba, following the legalization of marijuana there will be fines in effect for cannabis-related offences. In accordance with Bill C-45 or, the Cannabis Act which deals with marijuana legalization and regulation in Canada, adults in Canada are allowed to grow and cultivate up to four marijuana plants in their own home with a height restriction of one meter. Each province however, has the ability to place further restrictions on this legislation. Manitoba and Quebec have decided to take advantage of this option and have set a zero tolerance for growing marijuana. In Manitoba, individuals found in the possession of a marijuana plant that is not being grown for medical reasons can be subject to a fine of $2,542.

Once legal, cannabis will be easily accessible in Brandon. There are at least three locations that have been approved to sell marijuana and are considered licensed cannabis distributors. All of the marijuana sold from these retailers must be sourced through Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries. The age requirement to enter these retail locations will be 19 years old in accordance with provincial legislation. Supplying marijuana to a young person under the age of 19 can result in a hefty fine of $2,542. 

Other pre-set fines will be coming into effect after the legalization of cannabis on October 17th. These include a $237 fine for improper transportation of marijuana, meaning the driver is carrying cannabis in or on the vehicle that is not stored in an inaccessible separate compartment. There will also be a $672 fine for smoking or vaping in provincial parks. There are exceptions however, for those who have private residences within a provincial park. For a complete list of cannabis related offences visit the Government of Manitoba website at gov.mb.ca. 

You Paid The Fees, Now What?

BUSU Fee= $66.60

Student Services Fee= $63.00

Student Fitness Fee= $77.20

U-Pass= $19.00

You paid this and more in student fees. Why? What’s the benefit? It breaks down to a lot of money in fees, so I would recommend you take full advantages of the services BU has to offer. I didn’t really utilize the academic skills that my fees paid for until my third year. So, be smarter than I, and let’s break down some of the services available to you!

You paid for an academic advisor to help you look over your courses to ensure that you’re on track to graduate. The Academic Skills Centre can help you with math, writing and learning skills. Sheilagh Grills has helped me hold it together more than once with creating study plans and setting realistic academic goals. They’re also many workshops that are upcoming, including Making a Study Plan and Study Skills 101: Textbook Basics, both happening on September 18th.

Also included in the Student Services fee is access to personal counselling. Sherry or Marsha can help you find ways to manage anxiety, depression, stress, family issues, homesickness, etc. New this year on the BU page is Sexualized Violence Supports and Information, where there are resources available that you can access anonymously if you wish.

The Career Planning and Placement Office helps students determine possible career paths, career fairs, assistance with résumés and cover letters and student and graduate referrals for employment.

For international students, the Office of International Activities provides a space for students visiting Canada to feel more at home and connect with others going through the same experience. The Indigenous People’s Centre creates a space for people to come together and provide academic, social and cultural supports.

Through BUSU students get year-round Health & Dental benefits for $250 (with the option to opt-out if you have an alternative plan). The VP Internal Emily Simmons can advocate for you if you have grievances regarding grades, academic suspension, late submissions or accusations of academic dishonesty. The Paw Pass is a free sticker available at the BUSU office that is placed on the back of your student ID to indicate to participating businesses that you’re eligible for discounts. Most businesses have a discount ranging from 10%-50% with businesses such as Dominos, Little Italy Pizzeria, The Green Spot, Smitten, The Dock, Grand Valley Animal Clinic, Muse and Keywest Photo. 

Also included in your student fees are access to computers and internet, the Healthy Living Center fitness facilities and year-round bus services. If you find yourself looking for something to do, Bobcat games are free to all BU students!



#IBelieveYou Campaign

This week around the Brandon University campus students may have noticed new posters in the common areas that display #IBelieveYou on them. Starting in Alberta in 2013 this campaign is primarily promoted through social media and the hashtag #IBeliveYou. It covers all social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube in order to reach a broad audience, spark conversations, and educate as many people as possible. The goal of this campaign is to spread the message to victims of sexual assault that they will be believed and that support is available for them if they were to come forward. It also focuses on training bystanders to be that support for victims and show them that being believed is a big obstacle for most victims of sexual assault. This is due to the victims fear that they won’t be believed or taken seriously if they were to disclose their experience.  

Launched this past week at BU by the Sexual Violence Education and Prevention Coordinator, Carla Navid, the campaign has been brought to BU in an attempt to educate the campus community. Navid hosted a few events on campus including the #IBelieveYou selfie booth in the courtyard on September 11th which promoted uploading a selfie with #IBelieveYou to show support and spread awareness through social media. She also organized two bystander training sessions on September 11th and 13th which focused on teaching students how to intervene and prevent sexual assault before it happens. For more information on ways to get involved visit the campaign website www.brandonu.ca/sexualviolence/ibelieveyou/.

Navid wants to educate students at Brandon University about the support for sexual assault survivors that is available and easily accessible right here on campus. She advocates for survivors that they should come forward in whatever way they feel comfortable. For support throughout the whole process Navid can be found in her office which is located at 227 inside the Health Studies Building. 

Ontario Universities And Free Speech: Continued

In following up on last week’s article on the free speech issue in Ontario Universities I conducted the following interview of the CFS spokesperson Nour Alideeb. 

The Quill: What is the background? What prompted the government to believe this new directive to be necessary?

Nour Alideeb: “Protecting free speech is fundamental to academia. It allows for the open exchange of ideas, creative and critical thinking, and is key to our ability to grow intellectually. The concept of free speech is being co-opted to give people who carry extreme views a platform at Ontario colleges and universities. The Ford government is using this policy to protect those who wish to continue to argue for racist, sexist and homophobic ideologies that people have fought for generations to prove wrong. We believe that this policy is in response to a number of high profile incidences over the past 3 years that were successfully shut down at various campuses by students, staff and faculty.”

TQ: Does the CFS have any way of currently monitoring the state of free speech on campuses? If so in what ways is it preferential to monitoring by the Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario? 

NA: “The Federation has no way of tracking and keeping records of such incidents other than when they are high profile and make it to the media or if members reach out to the Federation to report them and seek support.” 

TQ: How are the Universities or the CFS-O fighting back against this attack.

NA: “The Canadian Federation of Students - Ontario is supporting students across the province who want to be apart of the consultation sessions between now and January 2019. We are committed to ensuring that students’ voices and concerns are heard and reflected in this policy. In addition, we are working with other campus organizations, faculty and labour unions to challenge this policy. Though we are the largest and oldest organization representing students in post-secondary education, the government has not consulted us on this new policy. We will be contacting the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities to share our concerns and opposition to this policy.”

The question laying at the heart of this issue goes as follows. Should all viewpoints be protected with the right to free speech, or do the ones that we perceive to be harmful need to be limited? What are the full ramifications of this decision? Try and find the faults in whatever conclusion you make and attempt to see the matter from the other side. Some topics require education, experience and open-mindedness, so don’t hastily rush to condemn one side or the other. How would one justify totally free speech and what are the reasons to support the limiting of certain ideas?