FEBRUARY 2009
the
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VOLUME 8
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ISSUE SIX
A home for higher learning
UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE
Horn Heather Steacy has many talents
Men look to nursing as viable career
A construction worker balances on cross beams as construction of Markin Hall, the future home of the Faculty of Management and the School of Health Sciences, continues. The $65-million project has seen significant progress with the erection of structural steel and is on target for a summer, 2010 opening.
Playing a role in resource management Shannon Flint gets a degree on her time
Wellness is in the hands of McIntosh
The U of L Legend is published monthly during the academic year by the communications unit within University Advancement. Submissions, comments and story ideas are always welcome. The Legend reserves the right to refuse any submitted advertisement. The Legend can be found online at www.uleth.ca/unews/ legend. Next content deadline is February 24, 2009. A DV E R T I S I N G For ad rates or other information, contact: legend@uleth.ca CREDITS Editor: Trevor Kenney Designer: Stephenie Chester Co ntributo rs: Diane Britton, Bob Cooney, Jane Edmundson, Jana McFarland, Glenda Moulton, Brianne Rohovie, Stacy Seguin, Katherine Wasiak, Richard Westlund, Mike Whipple and Bernie Wirzba
University of Lethbridge 4401 University Drive Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4 www.ulethbridge.ca
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By BOB COONEY
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mproving the management of natural resources in Alberta, Canada and around the world is the goal of a new research centre announced recently by federal Minister of State (Science and Technology) Gary Goodyear. Funded under the federal Centres of Excellence for Commercialization and Research (CECR) program and industry/government partners, the new Centre of Excellence for Integrated Resource Management will be the first of its kind in the world to focus geomatics science and engineering expertise towards the complex problems of large-scale resource and environmental management. The centre will be led by Dr. Naser El-Sheimy, holder of a Canada Research Chair and the head of the Department of Geomatics Engineering in the Schulich School of Engineering at the University of Calgary and involves partners at the University of Alberta, the University of Lethbridge and other Canadian universities, the Province of Alberta and industry partners. “This is a research and development centre that will lead to the commercialization of geomatics tools that will help ensure the responsible maintenance and management of resources in Canada and in countries across the globe,” U of C Vice-President (Research) Rose Goldstein says. “A centre of this calibre will undoubtedly attract some of the leading researchers in the field to our province.” “At the University of Lethbridge, we have been working on – and investing in – this program for the past six years,” says Dr. Dennis Fitzpatrick, Vice-President, Research. “We brought to Lethbridge senior remote sensing scientists like Dr. Philippe Teillet
and Dr. Karl Staenz to join Dr. Craig Coburn and Dr. Derek Peddle, and this group of experts is housed in our new Alberta Water and Environmental Science Building. The optical imaging of the earth is important to Alberta – for land and water management, as well as other natural resources and urban issues.” Fitzpatrick adds that the new centre at the University of Calgary
ing this technology. They will take advantage of the educational and research opportunities generated by our people and others involved in this high-tech activity.” The extended time frame for funding – up to five years initially – allows for the significant development of new research and researchers, according to Dr. Philippe Teillet, who joined the
Pictured here are (l-r) Dr. Derek Peddle, Dr. Phillipe Teillet, Dr. Craig Cobourn and Dr. Karl Staenz. The federal government has provided $11.6M funding for a Centre of Excellence partnership that includes the University of Lethbridge. The goal is to develop high-tech systems for integrated resource management of forests, water, agriculture, oil and land use.
and the collaborative focus between researchers and institutions represents a natural partnership where researchers can combine efforts to create a stronger program than they ever could individually. “We expect the impact of this announcement, and the research generated from it, to have far-reaching implications,” Fitzpatrick says. “At the U of L, we are already at work on commercial applications for remote sensing through our partnership in the Alberta Terrestrial Imaging Centre, which we operate with pioneering local business Iunctus Geomatics. As well, we have numerous undergraduate and graduate students currently study-
U of L faculty in 2006 (Department of Physics and Astronomy). Teillet is a remote sensing researcher working with colleagues in the Alberta Water and Environmental Science Building. “I came to the University of Lethbridge with my colleague Karl Staenz, and our goal was to help build research capacity and add to the projects that are already putting the U of L on the remote sensing map. This announcement is a validation of our approach, which was to be collaborative and flexible. Once programs are up and running, we will be working not individually, but in multiple teams. Together we can be even more productive.”
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the Legend
FEBRUARY 2009
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UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE
the billboard
University of Lethbridge President Dr. Bill Cade chats about what’s happening in the University community
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e are all aware that we are living in very uncertain economic times. There are daily stories about businesses scaling back budgets, laying off workers and even closing their doors. I want to assure you that our Board, Senior Administration and the University Budget Committee are planning very cautiously for next year with the assumption that our provincial operating grant funding will increase by 6 per cent and our enrolments will remain stable. The Department of Advanced Education and Technology has informed us that we should plan with this budget increase in mind until, and if, we are informed otherwise. The University Budget Committee has also considered other funding scenarios and we are, of course, monitoring closely
the Alberta provincial government budget and the anticipated funding announcements to post-secondary institutions. The 6 per cent increase depends on the provincial economy and how that translates into the overall Government of Alberta budget. We will learn more about this in the coming weeks and keep everyone informed. The overall economy is something that we have little control over, but our ability to meet and maintain our enrolment is very much in our hands. We can ensure we have the right number of students in the right programs come September. I understand that applications are fewer in number from graduating high school students for post-secondary education at many institutions, including the U of L. This is where we can actively influence the future
of our University. It is important we focus on our recruitment practices and continue to enlighten high school graduates about all the opportunities the U of L provides. We must also concentrate on retaining the students we have and continue to provide them with the highestquality education possible. This means that everybody, our entire staff and faculty, has the opportunity and responsibility to enhance the student experience even more so. There are many factors that play into the enrolment scenario; among them is the growth of other degree opportunities within Alberta. As we all know, our students are our ambassadors, both within the University and beyond. They will decide individually whether to follow their degree path to its conclusion here, and they influence
UNews website up and running
The University of Lethbridge’s Communications team is venturing into cyberspace with the introduction of UNews, a new vehicle through which they will present all the information that’s relevant to the campus community. The UNews concept was introduced in January and it combines the functionality of a daily news content site with video capability and a rotating banner that displays featured stories from the various corners of campus. Prior to the introduction of UNews, the University had no official means of dispensing information on a timely basis. The “Current news” section allows the Communications team to give website users the latest on-campus happenings, everything from
breaking stories such as campus closures to previews of athletic events, lectures and fine arts performances. The “Featured Stories” section of the website is a rotating collection of stories gleaned from the various publications produced by the Communications team (such as the Legend, Community Report, Journal, FIAT and so on), as well as contributions from the various Faculties. These stories feature the people who are the fabric of the University of Lethbridge and their contributions to campus life. The video functionality, as well as podcast capability, will allow even more interactive presentations of information. Check out UNews at www. uleth.ca/unews
their peers about the U of L experience. I believe we do a very good job of engaging our students already and I am confident in the quality of our faculty members and our program offerings, but there is always room for improvement. All of us have worked to better the U of L continually over our 42-year history. In my opinion this has resulted in the creation of one of the best comprehensive and student-oriented university environments. Recently released data from CUSC affirms that our students believe this too. We have carved a unique identity here at the U of L and it is one that connects with its students as well as the southern Alberta community. The recently held Donor Recognition Gala showcased the new Alberta Water and Environmental Sci-
CAMPUS
ence Building. This event once again highlighted the valuable relationship that exists between the U of L and the community and allowed us to thank our donors for their commitment to supporting our students and faculty and furthering research. We have so much to be proud of here at the University and by always searching for innovative ways to engage our students and connect with the community, we will ensure the continued growth of the institution. Please remember, “quality will prevail,” especially during times of economic uncertainties. We have a very high quality University, but we must never rest on our laurels. Again, please stay tuned and we will keep you informed of funding and enrolment issues as we receive the information.
kudos
Dr. Gordon Hunter (Manthe province. of Lethbridge Research Fund agement) and Dan Kazakoff Mark Slomp (MEd ’06), (ULRF) Award in the amount of (Management) collaborated Dr. Kerry Bernes (Education) $4,500 to support his research on the book, Little Empires and Dr. Thelma Gunn (Educaproject entitled “Abstract Ex— Multi-Generation Small tion) worked together to obtain pressionistic Art and the Late Business in Southern Alberta, the Building for the Future Music of Morton Feldman.” a collection of 11 Mary-Anne first-person stories McTrowe (Art) and of successful busiDaniel Wong (BFA ness ventures in the ’03) as The Cedar region. Exploring the Tavern Singers AKA economic value and Les Phonoréalistes contributions of the recently gave a virsouthern Alberta area’s tual performance for multi-generational the opening of the businesses, the book exhibition Gravité, was officially launched in Dazibao, centre de Jan. 26. photographies actuPronghorns elles in Montreal. thrower Jim Steacy Dr. Rolf Boon’s Jim Steacy, left, with former Horn coach George Gemer. (Kinesiology student) (Music) composiand former U of L tions Waves and track coach George System 2.3/7 have just Endowment Fund award for Gemer were honoured at the been released by the Canainnovation in the field of career Grassroots to Glory — Athletdevelopment. Sponsored by The dian Music centre on the CD ics Alberta Celebrating 40 Years Canadian Career Development Cult Figures: Electroacoustic 1969-2009 — 40th Anniversary music from Canada. Waves was Foundation (CCDF) and the Tribute and Annual Awards premiered and recorded at the Canadian Counselling Associanight at the Fantasyland hotel Sterndale Bennett Theatre in tion (CCA), the fund awards up in Edmonton on Jan. 17. Steacy March 2006 with U of L music to $7,500 annually to support was named the Athletics Althe development and delivery of students performing the work. berta Senior Male Athlete of the creative and practical approach- System 2.3/7 was digitally Year while Gemer was granted a es to training and practice. remixed and mastered by Tribute Award for his longtime U of L alumnus Chris Morris Dr. Ed Jurkowski (Music) devotion to track and field in (BFA ’08). has been awarded a University
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FEBRUARY 2009
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the Legend
UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE
Forward-thinking approach needed in uncertain times By ANDY HAKIN
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he University of Lethbridge has long prided itself on the strength of its faculty, and the reputation of the University is grounded in the reputation of its faculty. Now, in the midst of increased competition within the post-secondary sector, coupled with these difficult economic times, we look to draw on that strength and reputation to secure our future. When facing uncertain landscapes, a common tendency is to retrench and maintain the status quo. We, however, must fight against this urge. Now is the time for innovation, now is the time for new initiatives and forward thinking that will further engage students and affirm the U of L’s place as a comprehensive university; a University with a supportive, relevant and vibrant learning environment. The best ambassadors we
have to promote the student experience at the U of L are our own students. We can run a variety of promotional campaigns,
Dr. Andy Hakin, Vice-President Academic and Provost
and we can sing our praises in the media, but the value of supportive student testimonials is priceless. They are the most effective vehicles by which we can take our message outside the walls of the University and directly target our audience –
the next generation of students. For a potential student, there is no recruitment tool more powerful than their friend or peer – another student – telling them about the great learning experiences they are having at the U of L. Our task then becomes one that ensures our current students are engaged, that we are connecting with them on all levels and that we are providing the challenging and rigorous educational experiences we promise. We must continue to review our programs and ensure that they meet the needs of future generations of students, as well as meet our high standards as educators. Such reviews are already happening, and I applaud those innovative thinkers throughout our Faculty who are developing new programs and courses that continue to look forward to meet the changing wants and needs of society. One excellent example is the
new Public Health degree being offered by the School of Health Sciences in collaboration with the Faculty of Arts and Science. This degree program is a showcase for what can be accomplished with a forward-thinking approach. Developed by our faculty, this undergraduate program carves out an educational niche within the post-secondary sector that others have overlooked. The potential for the future of the public health program is enormous. So too is the potential for the growth of graduate studies at the U of L. Already recognized as a leader in providing researchdriven, engaging, graduate offerings, the University must continue to develop graduate opportunities that will draw students to campus and support the continued growth of faculty research programs. Competition for these students within the post-secondary system will continue to be intense as institu-
tions prioritize the mandate of the provincial government to increase access to graduate level programming. What is important to remember is that potential graduate students exist within each and every undergraduate student we already have. We must build bridges over which our undergraduate students can seamlessly cross to graduate programs, confident in the knowledge that the U of L has provided them the greatest opportunity to succeed. It is essential we recognize that this is our time, our opportunity and our responsibility to act creatively, to connect with today’s students, to build on the 42 years of history and reputation that our predecessors built and to ensure the continued strength of our programs for years to come.
LaUnCh EVEnT
FREE bbQ Come join us on
February 12
at noon in the atrium to celebrate the launch of our 2009-2013 Strategic Plan, because U are the Plan.
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the Legend
connections Global
FEBRUARY 2009
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UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE
Celebrating Success: SOS 2008
Aguilar headlines International lineup
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By TREVOR KENNEY exican exchange student Cesar Aguilar came to Canada under inconspicuous pretence – he just wanted to learn English. When he opened his mouth however, everyone quickly took notice. Blessed with a singing voice as melodic and pure as it is unique, the 18-year-old first-year University of Lethbridge music student will highlight the ethnic entertainment at the 17th Annual International Dinner, Feb. 12 in the U of L Atrium. Aguilar has been in Canada since September 2006, turning what was a planned six-month stay into a now burgeoning career as a classical vocalist. He initially shuffled between Sundre and Olds, Alta. as a foreign exchange student who was supposed to spend one semester learning English and Canadian customs. It turned out he liked the Alberta way and decided to stay. He also let us in on a secret – his voice. ge t T H E FA C T S “I used to sing a lot and I would sing tradi• Aguilar has already tional Mexican music, recorded three CDs, what they call ranchera,” including an English Aguilar says of his childrecording last summer of hood in Cuernavaca, Canadian gospel songs he Morelos, a city of approxilearned while living in Olds mately 400,000 people just 45 minutes south of • His mother arranges Mexico City. international student “I would be all exchanges and has been to dressed up like this charro Canada to visit Aguilar with a big sombrero, and I just loved it.” • Aguilar distinctly His vocal styling at remembers seeing snow for that time was in a low the first time, Sept. 15, 2006, pitch he used to imitate while he was living in Sundre other popular singers, but under the tutelage • Other performances at the of a Mexican teacher, he International Dinner include was encouraged to sing in belly dancing by Ammena his natural pitch, which Dance Company, the U of was considerably higher. L Global Drums and Japan’s His sound would mature Makoto Sakurada over time, but as he went through a natural voice change, he somehow maintained a high pitch in his singing. Now he trains as a counter-tenor, an exceedingly rare gift. “At the beginning, you can see people’s reaction when I perform, the looks on their faces,” Aguilar says. “I talk low, but then when I start singing high, people aren’t sure what they are listening to.” U of L music professor Blaine Hendsbee knew what he was hearing when he adjudicated Aguilar in a 2007 Kiwanis Music Festival. The two struck a chord and it eventually led to Aguilar coming to the U of L. “I loved how he adjudicated me,” says Aguilar. “I asked him at the end, are there universities here in Canada where you would suggest to pursue my singing? “He told me of several that are good and have very good music programs but I found they are also very expensive. I had heard the U of L was very good and the only person I really knew was Blaine and the cost of the university was so much better I decided to try and go here.” Having completed his first semester, Aguilar is making the most of his U of L experience. He sang with Vox Musica prior to Christmas and is currently performing with the U of L Singers. All the while he continues to train in opera, knowing full well there are few parts written for countertenors. “For tenors and baritones there is a lot of chances to get into the classic operas,” he says. “For counter-tenors it’s really hard because you are reduced to a certain narrow repertoire, from the Baroque mainly.” Still, it does not dissuade him from his goal, to be a performance artist. “I want to go as far as I can in performance,” Aguilar says. “I do not need to be rich, it’s mainly about enjoying what I do. If you are going to pay me enough to live, then that’s fine. I want to travel around and sing.”
Campaign volunteers celebrate the success of Supporting Our Students 2008. Pictured (l-r) Back: Co-chair Randy Joseph, Wendy Herbers, Dr. Dennis Connolly. Middle: Co-chair Dr. Dayna Daniels, Dr. Sergio Pellis, Charlene Janes, Gerda VanderFluit. Front: Katherine Wasiak, Dr. Heidi MacDonald.
In 2005, Supporting Our Students started as an internal, annual campaign to raise money for student awards. Since then, the initiative has grown by leaps and bounds as U of L faculty and staff continue to demonstrate a tangible commitment to students. The 2008 campaign marked the most successful year to date. Supporting Our Students Co-Chairs Dr. Dayna Daniels and Randy Joseph reflect on the campaign and the people who stepped forward to show support. Q. As you look back at Supporting Our Students 2008, what stands out? Dayna: The results really highlight the success of the campaign. We exceeded all of our goals in terms of the numbers of participants and the amount we set out to raise. Surpassing our goal for the number of participants in the campaign was a huge accomplishment – I’m really proud of that. Considering the downturn in the economy, the fact that people were willing to dig deep and come up with money to support our students was really great. Randy: The campaign sort of drove itself. In the spring, we set out to create awareness about the need for both scholarships and bursaries. People began to recognize that even a small contribution was worthwhile. As a result, we received support from a lot of different groups. Q. What role did the volunteers play in the 2008 campaign? Dayna: There were 24 other people we enlisted to help in the campaign – these were individuals who had given to Supporting Our Students and were willing to go one step further. Randy: I liked to think of our volunteers as our key communicators. They played an important
part because they spread out across campus and got the word out to their various areas. Dayna: They were really enthusiastic about helping, and that made it exciting. Hopefully the momentum of that will keep going.
Q. What final words do you have as Co-Chairs for Supporting Our Students? Dayna: I’d like to thank everybody who made a contribution, but particularly the new con-
Supporting Our Students 2008
RESULTS IN NUMBERS Total number of faculty and staff participants
Total number of new faculty and staff participants Dollars raised
Average gift size Q. Can you explain the significance of the Supporting Our Students stickers that have been popping up around campus? Randy: We talked early in the campaign about how most people didn’t want a memento that would cost money, but the idea behind the Supporting Our Students stickers was that they would provide visual recognition, while remaining relatively inexpensive. Dayna: Our volunteers distributed the stickers to everyone on campus who made a contribution. The visibility of just that little sticker said, “I am a part of this.” It also allowed students to identify some of the people who contribute to awards they may have received. As I’ve walked down the halls of the University, I’ve seen a lot of the stickers around – I think people take pride in letting others know they made a contribution.
301 51 $202,824 $674
tributors, returning contributors and the people who increased the amount they gave. Giving back to our students is an important aspect of the University of Lethbridge, and we’re all a part of it. Randy: Students are our core business; they’re the people we need to serve. If we have the ability to donate some money towards their future, that’s really a positive thing. I would also like to thank everyone who put some of his or her own finances towards this. Thank you for your commitment. Dayna: And as a final note, I would challenge whoever replaces us as the 2009 Chairs to go even bigger!
For more information about how you can contribute to Supporting Our Students, visit: www.uleth.ca/giving
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FEBRUARY 2009
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athletics AT T H E U
UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE
Steacy comfortable on any stage By TREVOR KENNEY
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hen Heather Steacy takes the stage, it’s all about technique – whether she’s in a throwing circle or a recital hall. The two-time CIS women’s weight throw champion is as comfortable heaving weights around a track as she is playing clarinet to a convocation crowd. And while that might seem like a startling contrast, Steacy says the two disciplines actually feed off one another. “I think there are a lot more similarities with hammer (and weight) throw and music than there are with other sports,” the 20-year-old, third-year music major says. “In hammer, you have to have pretty much perfect technique to be able to stay in control the whole time and be able to release in the sector, so I think it’s quite similar to music.” Exercising proper breathing and executing technique at the time of performance are shared traits of musicians and athletes. Steacy says her early introduction to musical performance has aided her athletically in big competitions. “I started playing piano when I was five and have been doing Kiwanis Music Festivals ever since, so I’ve never really had an opportunity to develop big issues with nervousness like some people have,” she says. “I don’t really get nervous. I get jitters every once in a while, but I’ve learned how to control it over the years, and it doesn’t affect me very much.” That was on display in her first appearance at CIS nationals in the spring of 2007. Just 18 years old at the time, Steacy shocked everyone by winning gold. A year later, she’d defend her title, throwing a still personal best distance of 17.93 metres and dominating the competition by more than a half metre. “My first year was pretty surprising because I didn’t
No excuses; staff rates can help you stay in shape The University of Lethbridge and Sport and Recreation Services make it difficult to come up with excuses for not staying in shape. Not only does the U of L have first-rate facilities to satisfy every recreational need, Sport and Recreation
the Legend sendas fit to be honoured If, in the first two minutes of discussing the sport of judo, the name of Dr. Yosh Senda is not uttered, then the conversation is truly lacking in depth. Simply stated, Senda and judo are synonymous and fully complementary. To discuss one without the other does a disservice to both. For that, Senda has been recognized time and again for his invaluable contribution to the growth of the ancient, time-honoured sport. He, along with his wife Florence, will once again take centre stage next month as the University of Lethbridge’s Faculty of Management pays tribute to Senda at the 22nd Annual Scholarship Fundraising Dinner.
Heather Steacy, a two-time CIS weight throw champion, is gearing up to defend her title this spring.
expect to win at all,” Steacy says. “Last year, it was nice to be able to do it a second time.
I had been training really hard and throwing well, and I always find I compete well at the big meets.” Steacy is on a career path that will lead to bigger and bigger meets down the road. It’s a journey already traveled by another Steacy, older brother Jim. The Canadian Olympian and multiple Canadian champion and record holder casts a long shadow, but Heather has learned to reap as much as she can from Jim’s experience. “I don’t think it’s as bad for me as it is for Sean because I don’t have to compete with him,” she says of her other brother, another former Pronghorn thrower. “I love being able to train with Jim and see how well he’s doing. Knowing that I have pretty much the same opportunity of doing everything he’s doing is very encouraging.” Steacy is preparing for her third CIS championship appearance, Mar. 12-14 in Windsor, Ont. She opened the season with a secondplace showing at the Golden Bear Open meet in January
and while not taking gold is somewhat of an oddity, Steacy says she welcomes more challengers to a relatively unknown sport. “There’s getting to be a lot more girls competing now, which is a good sign,” she says. “There will actually be people to compete with now instead of just going and throwing by yourself, competing against yourself all the time.” Training five days a week, including twice daily Wednesday through Friday, you might think Steacy has little time for anything else. Add in the fact her entire family is into track and it sounds like throwing dominates her life. That’s where music steps in to provide another outlet. “It’s kind of nice coming to school where there are people who have no idea what I do,” she says. “It’s neat being able to explain things (about hammer), but it’s also nice not being asked all the time. It’s nice to have that contrast in my life.” That disparity also seems to create a student-athlete balance that leads to excellence in both arenas.
Services offers staff membership rates to all University of Lethbridge employees. Membership includes access to the Fitness Centre, Max Bell Aquatic Centre, triple gymnasium, Ascent Climbing Centre, indoor running track, as well as admission to selected drop-in fitness classes, and a 10 per cent discount on select group programs and services. Passes can be purchased either monthly ($28), quarterly
($100) or annually ($265.50) and there is also the option of monthly payroll deduction ($22.10 per month). Memberships provide access to the locker rooms. Both male and female locker rooms have steam rooms and lockers for rent that come with towel service. Locker rates are approximately $5 per month on payroll deduction. Lockers can be rented either quarterly or annually. Additionally, Sport and
Recreation Services offers programs such as personal consultations and personal training. This is a great way to not only get introduced to the facility but to receive specific training on living a healthy lifestyle. For more information, visit the website at www.uleth. ca/sportrec or give them a call at 403-329-2706. As well, the Spring/Summer 2009 Activity Guide is available around campus beginning Mar. 1.
ge t T H E FA C T S • The hammer throw is an outdoor sport where the women heave a 4kg ball (8.8 lbs) attached to a metal wire 119.5 cm in length (three feet, 11 inches). The weight throw is an indoor sport where the women toss a 20lb weight attached only to a handle • Steacy won the CIS weight throw gold last year with a throw of 17.93m, nearly two metres better (15.97m) than her win in 2007 • Her summer competition schedule could include trips to Prince Edward Island (Canada Games), Serbia (World University Games) and Lebanon (Francophone Games) • Steacy started playing clarinet in Grade 5, taking lessons from U of L music professor Peggy Mezei
Dr. Yosh Senda and his wife Florence will be honoured at the Faculty of Management’s 22nd Annual Scholarship Fundraising Dinner.
Scheduled for Friday, Mar. 13 at the Lethbridge Lodge Hotel, the Faculty will recognize the contributions of Senda to the sport of judo; honouring a man who has devoted 75-plus years to the noble pursuit. “Dr. Senda has dedicated his life to building the sport of judo in Lethbridge,” says Chris Spearman in nominating Senda as an honouree. “He instills in his students that judo is more than just a physical exercise for the body – judo is a way of life. He takes pride when his students do well in competition; his only requirement is that his students try their very best and never give up hope.” Senda has represented the sport in several capacities, coaching all the way up to the Olympic level. Achieving glory and fame however, is the farthest thing from his mind. In fact it is ironic that a man so soft-spoken, so humble and dedicated to being a volunteer, would elicit so much attention. Named to the Order of Canada in 2008, the country’s highest civilian honour, Senda’s list of awards and hall of fame dedications is awe inspiring. Through it all, he simply sees himself as a “judo boy”, supported ably by Florence, herself a third degree black belt. Without Senda, the sport of judo would not hold such a prominent place in the local, provincial and national sporting scene, nor would the U of L have a judo exchange program that continues today to allow judo students an opportunity to travel to Japan and return with lifelong memories. It promises to be a special night, and one well deserved, as the Faculty of Management celebrates both Yosh and Florence Senda and their contributions to the sporting community. For tickets to the event, contact Steve Craig, Director – Cooperative Education and Internships, at 403329-5181.
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the Legend
FEBRUARY 2009
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UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE
Nursing profession a viable career for men By TREVOR KENNEY
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hanging long-entrenched attitudes can often be a slow and gradual process. Peter Kellett, an academic assistant in the University of Lethbridge’s Nursing program, is attempting to give that process a nudge. Kellett and the Faculty of Health Sciences will present a Men in Nursing Recruitment Day, Feb. 13, as they try and show men that nursing is not only a viable career option but it should be a desirable one as well. “The primary challenge of attracting men to nursing is the general public views nursing as a woman’s profession,” Kellett, a nurse for 14 years, says. “What I’m really hoping to do with this day is to help men realize that this is not just a profession for women.” Drawn to nursing because of an interest in the medical field and a mother who worked as a nurse, Kellett says there are many false impressions about the profession that seem to steer men away. “I think one of the misconceptions is that nursing is somehow a lower profession and it is not. It’s very much a dynamic and challenging career and very worthwhile to be part of — you make a difference every day,” Kellett says. “I had considered other health-care professions but what attracted me to nursing is that nurses are the people who have a long-term relationship with the patients. I think the bond between nurse and patient is like no other in the health-care field.” While the number of male nurses is growing in Canada, with men accounting for just six per cent of all nurses, there’s much room for improvement. Now is also the perfect time to get into the field, Kellett explains. With many nurses
Men, such as U of L student Jason Wengel, are discovering that a nursing career boasts a wealth of opportunity. The U of L is hosting a Men in Nursing Recruitment Day, Feb. 13 to further illustrate the options nursing provides.
ge t T H E FA C T S • Kellett earned his bachelor of nursing degree from Memorial University in St. John’s, Nlfd. and is currently working on a master’s degree from Memorial • The Feb. 13 Men in Nursing Recruitment Day runs 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Morning sessions are being held in AH117 with the afternoon sessions in the Nursing Skills Lab, PE040 • As of April 1, 2009 a firstyear Registered Nurse in Alberta will earn $32.34/ hour before educational adjustments or shift differentials (approximately $60,000/year, if working fulltime) • For more information on the U of L’s nursing programs, see the Faculty of Health Sciences website (www.uleth. ca/healthsciences/nursing)
from the baby boomer era expected to retire in the coming years, he cites the Canadian Nurses Association as predicting a shortfall of 113,000 registered nurses by 2016. “In terms of job security, you really can’t ask for much better.” The U of L, and its partner Lethbridge College, will help satisfy some of that need with a pair of program offerings. Currently, the Nursing Education in Southwestern Alberta (NESA) program is available as a four-year baccalaureate program in conjunction with Lethbridge College. Its numbers have steadily been on the rise in recent years with more than 172 first-year students currently enrolled (with 564 in the entire four-year program). New to the University
in the fall is an after-degree program that will accept initially a class of 35 students. This is for those who already have a degree and who meet the inherent prerequisites. Offered in an accelerated format, it consists of six consecutive semesters.
“In terms of job security, you really can’t ask for much better.” peter kellett
“It’s very demanding but you could train to be a nurse in two years,” Kellett says. “From the point of view of getting through education and getting into the workforce, it is a very
support for u of l remains strong By BOB COONEY
The University thanked and recognized the 1,186 individuals and corporations who made contributions in 2008 at the 5th Annual Donor Recognition Gala, held On Feb. 5 at the Alberta Water and Environmental Science Building.
The University of Lethbridge’s 2008 fundraising results show that a healthy $7 million was raised to support more than 200 separate areas on campus — from scholarships and bursaries to research projects and equipment purchases that will make a significant difference to students and researchers. “Despite challenging economic times that have had an impact globally, the U of L
has had one of the best years ever, thanks to our generous contributors,” says President Bill Cade. “Our dedicated donors made this year such a success, and we are truly grateful.” Cade adds it is important local leaders continue to guide the way. “There is no doubt that as times get tough we need individuals and private businesses to show leadership and confidence through continued investment in our community. “The support provided to the University is a great example of this leadership. We are building something very special here at the University of Lethbridge — something our community can be proud of. I think the
attractive option for some people.” Kellett is testimony to the many avenues nursing can take people. He says training as a generalist in the health-care field opens innumerable doors and offers a diversity within a career that is entirely unique. In his 14 years as a nurse, he’s held positions in Newfoundland, Texas, northern Manitoba and southern Alberta, working on surgical floors, at remote nursing stations, as a primary health-care manager, in the emergency room and now as an instructor. Given all that, at the end of the day, it’s mostly about connecting with people. “If you want to have a job where you have the potential to make a difference in people’s lives every day, nursing is a great option,” he says.
support we received this past year shows they are already proud.” In 2008, more than 3,200 gifts were received from alumni, friends, students and current and retired employees, with 69 per cent of those gifts destined to help students directly through awards. Donor generosity also enabled the University to obtain more than $3 million in matching funds from the Government of Alberta through the Access to the Future Fund. Since 2005, more than $9 million has been directed toward the University of Lethbridge for scholarships, bursaries and support to the institution as a result of the province’s matching program.
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FEBRUARY 2009
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government AT T H E U
UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE
the Legend
Federal budget offers opportunities for U of L By RICHARD WESTLUND Rarely does a federal budget garner the public’s attention like the one recently delivered by Stephen Harper’s Conservative government. Particular attention was paid to this budget not only because of the current slowdown in the Canadian economy, but because the government’s fate rested on whether it would be able to convince the Liberal Party of Canada to support its passage. It was also an important budget for the post-secondary sector with a number of announcements that affect universities and colleges. First, $2 billion was promised to improve infrastructure at Canada’s post-secondary institutions. It was stated 70 per cent of that amount is to be spent at universities, with preference given to those that can improve the quality of research and development at their institution. Other budget announcements that may provide opportunities for the U of L include: • $150 million through the
Canada Foundation for Innovation to increase the funding available for meritorious projects in the 2009 Leading Edge and New Initiatives Funds Competition. • An additional $200 million over three years to support aboriginal skills development and training. This funding will enhance the Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership initiative and create a new fund. • A two-year fund of $60 million to support infrastructure-related costs for local and community cultural and heritage institutions such as local theatres, small museums and libraries. • $305 million over the next two years to ensure that further steps are taken toward these goals: to strengthen current programs (Non-Insured Health Benefits and primary care services), improve health outcomes for First Nations and Inuit individuals, and move toward greater integration with provincial and territorial health systems. • $500 million over two years to support construction of new community recreational
facilities and upgrades to existing facilities across Canada. Eligible facilities include recreational facilities owned by municipalities, First Nations,
U of L’s Director of Government Relations, Richard Westlund
counties, community organizations and other not-for-profit entities. • $250 million over two years under a Treasury Boardmanaged process to undertake an accelerated investment program to address deferred maintenance at federal laboratories. • While these investments
peer referral takes message to students
tions. The budget states, “the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada are streamlining operations and aligning programs with the objectives of the Government’s Science and Technology
ge t T H E FA C T S • Peer Referral started in January and will run through the end of the semester
By TREVOR KENNEY How often do you reach the end of a journey and think to yourself, “If I only knew then what I know now?” The journey most assuredly would have been much smoother and more rewarding. The re-birth of the University of Lethbridge’s Peer Referral service is a way of addressing that issue, connecting students to the essential services they have access to at the U of L, many of which they may not even be aware. “A lot of students go through university not knowing what is available to them and it’s better that they know what they can actually do while they’re here,” Peer Referral Officer Katie Labey says. “The students I just talked to didn’t know that we had free counselling services on campus. “I’ve learned a lot myself doing this job, even though it’s my last year here. I often think I wish I knew a lot of these things when I started.” Labey, in her final year of general science, is one of three officers who travel around the University with the mobile Peer Referral cart. With fellow officers Lisa Boody and Jenn Blenkarn, the three run a regular schedule of appearances all over campus.
in post-secondary and research sectors are welcomed; there was one statement in the budget that has created some concern amongst a number of institu-
Peer Referral officers Lisa Boody, left, and Katie Labey lend some advice to U of L student Jill Dosso.
They set up shop, encourage students to come to them and ask questions, then dole out free stuff.
“Advice and free stuff, it’s a perfect combination.”
Katie Labey
“It’s casual and I find students really enjoy that more,” says Labey. “A lot of students have recognized us in the yellow shirts, we’re quite identifiable and we’ve been seeing a core group of people each week who come around just to see what our new topic is.” Therein lies the difference between this Peer Referral service and the one that existed
previously. At that time, the service was housed in an office in the basement of the Students’ Union Building. While just as valuable, it did not get enough student traffic. This incarnation is by the students, for the students, and they’re taking it to the students. The questions they hear run the gamut, but they give a good snapshot of some of the confusion and misinformation that exists throughout the student body. “The most frequent question we’ve had so far is what the heck are you guys,” laughs Boody, a second-year history major. “But we also hear a lot of questions about how you change your major, how you get help for studying for a certain class, how to approach a teacher about issues in class. If we’re stumped, we’ll take their name and e-mail address, go find an answer and get back
• The Peer Referral cart appears Tuesday/Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Atrium; Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Food Court; Thursday, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. outside Tim Horton’s • The service’s weekly themes include: advising services for the various Faculties; study skills; and counselling services • Labey, Boody and Blenkarn estimate they talk with 20 students per day, on average to them.” The whole focus of the program is to enable students to become more engaged with their university, take advantage of all there is to offer and smooth out some of the rough patches they may encounter. “The students I’ve talked to have been really pleased, they really enjoy the fact they can come and ask us questions, they don’t have to pay for anything and they get free stuff,” says Labey, offering up an alligator keychain. “Advice and free stuff, it’s a perfect combination.”
Strategy and national research priorities.” The speech went on to say that the savings were being used to support other areas of importance in the postsecondary sector. Considering the U of L has traditionally been very successful in the tricouncil competitions, especially for a smaller university, cutting funding in this area raises some concerns. U of L senior administration will soon be in Ottawa to meet with various Ministers and senior departmental staff. The goal of these meetings are two-fold. Firstly, they intend to educate members of the federal government about the contribution this institution is making on behalf of Canadians through research and teaching initiatives. Secondly, they will followup on the various opportunities presented to us above. While it will be interesting to see how the federal government decides to spend its infrastructure money and whether there is equity among the different regions of the country, the U of L will make its case as to why investing in our university is wise.
look for new e-newsletter By BOB COONEY Beginning in March, the University of Lethbridge Communications office will be producing an e-news mailing that will be distributed to all employees once per week on Mondays. The main purpose of the e-newsletter is to reduce the volume of e-mail messages being sent to all employees from a wide variety of departments and administrative offices and group them in a brief, weekly, easy-to-read format. Submissions and regular contributions are encouraged from all areas. Items included in the e-newsletter can be of timely, general interest to the campus employee community, (APO, AUPE, EXEMPT, Faculty) such as information from Human Resources, Financial Services or other administrative departments; employee networking and social activities; Campus Security or Facilities information; construction or other maintenance updates; notices about upcoming speakers of interest to the campus community and sports and recreation information, among other topics. The submission e-mail address will be communications@uleth.ca and will be activated mid-February. For additional information, please contact Bob Cooney, communications officer, at robert.cooney@ uleth.ca
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the Legend
FEBRUARY 2009
OUR
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UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE
alumni
Shannon Flint, a management graduate from the U of L’s Edmonton campus, is making her mark with the Alberta Government.
Flint proving it’s never too late to get a university degree By STACY SEGUIN Like other successful university students, Shannon Flint had to work hard to complete her university degree. Unlike most, she took a decidedly different route to convocation. Flint (BMgt ’07), Executive Director of the Strategic Policy and Innovation Branch with the Oil Sands Environmental Management Division of Alberta Environment, balanced a career, marriage and motherhood with her schoolwork. It meant a great deal of sacrifice and falling back on a strong support system – but it was well worth it. “There is a lot of burden on the family when you are working full time and going to school part time,” says Flint. “My husband had a huge role in supporting me, and it was very good for my daughters to see me working towards my degree. They understand that education is about future choices. Of course, they also say that they’ll get their degrees right after high school and not wait like I did.” The daughter of a military man, Flint spent her childhood traveling across the country. She graduated from high school in 1979 and settled in Edmonton where she still resides. “I never thought I had the option of not finishing high school, but I never felt a whole lot of pressure to do postsecondary education. My dad had been with the military since he was 17. He grew up in the era where you got your Grade 12 and then went out to work,” explains Flint. Like her father, Flint got a job after graduating from high school. She began working as an administrative assistant in the Department of Culture in the
Alberta Government. “Although it was an interesting job, I realized it was probably not something I wanted to do for the rest of my life, so I attended NAIT part time and got a business management diploma in 1985,” says Flint.
ge t T H E FA C T S • Flint has been a Government of Alberta employee since 1979 • She was instrumental in creating a variety of “firsts” in North America, including Climate Change and Emissions Act (2000), Specified Gas Emitters Regulation (2008) • She has worked with the Alberta Research Council and was also involved in the Athabasca Water Management Framework Throughout her career with the Alberta Government, Flint worked in many different departments and gained extensive experience and knowledge. From promoting the Calgary Olympic Games in the late 1980s to building policy for the regulatory side of the energy business, Flint saw all aspects of business. Despite her professional success, Flint felt her career choices were still somewhat limited without a university degree. She began to search for a program that would fit her needs. “I learned of the University of Lethbridge management program from my nephew, a recent
graduate, who spoke very highly of it,” explains Flint. “What I really like about the program is its multidisciplinary approach. The program gives students a broad spectrum of knowledge and skills. The instructors in Edmonton had a lot of experience in the workplace and the material was relevant. The flexibility of night classes and the quality of instruction were excellent.” The knowledge she gained from the U of L program benefited Flint in many ways. It opened the door for her current directorship and changed her perspective. “I analyze problems differently now. I even went back to my textbook on organizational change when I built my work team,” says Flint. “I also look at different ways to communicate the story of the oilsands, using new media and tools such as online social networking, for more immediate communication.” One of her responsibilities, as director, is to educate the public about the environmental management systems that are in place to mitigate the ecological impact of oilsands development. Often facing heavy criticism, Flint is adamant that there are good environmental practices in place up north. “We do a lot of monitoring. We have standards in place for water quantity and quality; we monitor the air and have an active reclamation program,” explains Flint. She continues to create policies and frameworks that support environmentally sustainable development of the oilsands, policies that look at what we have today, but also towards what we will have in the future.
Shown here performing On the Ice of Labrador, Montréal Danse will be at the University of Lethbridge, Tuesday, Feb. 24 for an 8 p.m. show in the University Theatre.
MontrEal Danse brings unique, visual experience to University theatre True stories about aviators, trombone players, mortality on railroad tracks, blood sugar cycles of a young diabetic, an English woman in a hut of rotten potatoes and a journey of Alzheimer’s are all woven together in one stunning dance production. On the Ice of Labrador, by Montréal Danse, appears Tuesday, Feb. 24 at 8 p.m. in the University Theatre. Known for its captivating dances and exceptional dancers, Montréal Danse has toured throughout Canada, South America, the United States, Europe, Asia and Central America. In this production by British Columbiabased choreographer Sarah Chase, seven dancers move and talk together, bringing fragments of identity and memory to life. As these fragments accumulate in beautiful dances and personal stories, we glimpse something more essential, something unidentifiable. “This is a performance that goes beyond the words and the dancing to connect to audiences in a powerful way,” says Lisa Doolittle, Now Showing curator/producer. “Every one of us has pieces
of family stories, almost like fragments of those songs that you can’t get out of your head. Maybe you’ve heard these stories a thousand times but never fully comprehended. One day, unexpectedly, a story resonates and at last you feel and see what it means. On the Ice of Labrador is full of such flashes of recognition and connection. It’s a beautiful piece.” Montréal Danse is devoted to creating vibrant works that play with concepts, visions, structures and vocabularies in its pursuit to capture the imagination. Artistic Director Kathy Casey seeks choreographers who stand apart from the crowd and asks of them and the company’s dancers to delve into the unknown. “This approach is Montréal Danse’s way of discovering what is fresh, audacious and exciting in the art form,” says Doolittle. The public is invited to a choreography workshop led by Casey on Tuesday, Feb. 24 at 1:40 p.m. in W420. Tickets for On the Ice of Labrador are priced at $20 students/seniors and $25 regular from the U of L Box Office (403-329-2616).
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FEBRUARY 2009
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UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE
H E A LT H
& wellness
the Legend
McIntosh tackles Wellness challenge By TREVOR KENNEY
F
or 18 years, Suzanne McIntosh saw the effect side of the employee wellness equation. Now, as the University of Lethbridge’s new Wellness Coordinator, she gets a chance to address the causal aspect. A veteran of the Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB), McIntosh spent the better part of the last two decades working with those who had already suffered an accident or injury that was keeping them off the job. Her opportunity now is to work with employees to stave off such occurrences, all the while assisting in creating a happier, more productive workplace. “One of my main roles is working with faculty, staff – anybody who’s an employee of the University – making sure they have information about their health and wellness so that they can be healthy and productive at work,” she says. “Eventually we would like to assist individuals to be pro-active with their health and wellness and make sure they do stay at work.” A Picture Butte native, McIntosh spent the majority of her time at the WCB in Calgary. She first worked with injured clients who could not return to work, then moved into a case manager’s role. For much of the last 10 years she served as an account manager as well as a supervisor. With a diploma in rehabili-
AN
ge t T H E FA C T S • Married to husband Darren, the two will enjoy their 24th anniversary this spring. They have two daughters, Samara (15) and Nikki (11) • McIntosh’s maiden name is Vogt. She’s the sister to CTV News Director Terry Vogt • As the Wellness Coordinator, she practices what she preaches. “I try to go to the gym three or four times a week. I run a little bit, I’m pretty active; I like to do anything outside. I garden, golf in the summer when the weather is good, pretty much anything.” • McIntosh took over for Rosi Gregory and began her post in November • Heads up for the next Wellness initiative, the May 1 to June 12 Spring Challenge
Suzanne McIntosh, the University’s new Wellness Coordinator, is looking to make the workplace a positive environment.
tation services from Lethbridge College, she is more than qualified to assist with employees who are off work with illness or injury. What she’d rather do is keep them on the job in the first place. “In the last five to 10 years, employers are really taking a good look at health and wellness and how they can get their employees to be more productive,” she says.
apple
“It’s very costly to have people off work so initially (employers) were looking at just that aspect. “I think what they are finding now is that it just rolls over into so many more benefits for the employees. They are much happier at work, people like coming to work, it’s a much more community-focused approach.” At her disposal is the Health and Wellness Centre and McIntosh wants to incorporate its use as much as possible.
A D AY |
If you’re one of the many people who made their New Year’s Resolution to lose weight, then here are five ways to help fast track your goal.
McIntosh said she could not be happier. With a family of four that includes two young daughters, she says the life balance that can be achieved in Lethbridge, as opposed to Calgary, is a revelation. “It took a little while to get used to a new community again but now I really enjoy being back here,” she says. “I don’t miss Calgary at all, except once in a while for shopping. I’ve found how much more time a person has and that’s part of balancing your life.”
MONTHLY FOOD FOR THOUGHT TO KEEP YOU HEALTHY ALL YEAR LONG.
By DIANE BRITTON
Your Healthy Weight – the Healthy Way!
“The University has so many resources here and for me that’s really exciting because there’s so much to tap into,” she says. “We can coordinate with the fitness and health centre and look at a program where employees could go in and do a health screening. Then we can come in and help them where they are lacking, with an exercise program for example, or information on their diet and nutrition.” Back in southern Alberta,
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power snacks!
start the day right!
Make snacks nutrient dense but not energy dense. Include fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds (60 ml maximum serving size per day), yogurt or milk (dairy or soy). Watch your appetite and cravings decrease (because of blood sugar control) along with your waist!
Eat breakfast; it boosts your metabolism. A balanced breakfast includes at least three of the four food groups. Include a protein source and fibre, both of which will help control blood sugar, cravings and aid in weight loss.
Liquid Calories Proper hydration helps control your appetite and fight fatigue. Focus on water and other hydrating fluids like milk and 100 per cent real fruit or vegetable juice (maximum recommended juice intake is 125-250 ml/day). Limit your caffeine containing drinks to no more than four cups per day. Avoid choosing pop and specialty drinks laden with sugar or fat as much as possible.
Plan for activity in your day
i like to move it, move it!
Schedule activity in your calendar as a meeting to help you stay committed. You can also break activity into 10-minute sessions. Park at the far end of the parking lot, take a 10-minute brisk walk at coffee break or stretch in front of your favorite TV show for 10 minutes at night – an easy way to fit 30 minutes of activity into your day!
Regular physical activity is a critical part of reaching your healthy weight goal. Canada’s Physical Activity Guide (PAG) recommends 30 to 60 minutes of daily physical activity. Get your copy of PAG at www.healthcanada.ca/paguide
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events C A L E N D A R
the Legend
FEBRUARY 2009
Feb. 23 Art Now: Brendan Fernandes 12 p.m., University Recital Hall, W570 Feb. 25 Art Now: Faculty of Fine Arts Dean Desmond Rochfort 12 p.m., University Recital Hall, W570
Pronghorn Sports Lineup Men’s Hockey Feb. 13-14 University of Calgary vs. Pronghorns Nightly, 7 p.m. at Nicholas Sheran Arena Feb. 20-21 University of Alberta vs. Pronghorns Nightly, 7 p.m. at Nicholas Sheran Arena Women’s Hockey Feb. 14 University of British Columbia vs. Pronghorns 2 p.m. at Nicholas Sheran Arena
Mar. 9 Art Now: Installation artist, Samuel Roy-Bois 12 p.m., University Recital Hall, W570
Feb. 13 Art Now: Daniel Young & Christian Giroux 12 p.m., University Recital Hall, W570 Feb. 22 Architecture & Design Now: Charlotte Falk 6 p.m., C610
The University of Lethbridge Students’ Union plays a prominent role in every student’s educational and social experience during their time at
time to book staff photos Have you got a new look and want to show it off? Are you new to campus and need a photo for your website or the University directory? Now is the time to book your directory photo. The call is out to all new faculty or staff, those who have missed previous photo shoots, or those who just had a bad hair-day at their last
Miscellaneous
Feb. 24 Music at Noon Musaeus String Quartet 12:15 p.m., University Recital Hall, W570
Feb. 12 17th Annual International Dinner An evening of ethnic food, music and entertainment 6 p.m., University of Lethbridge Atrium Through Mar. 13 art + people = x Selected regular visitors, faculty, staff and alumni choose works from the U of L art collection for display Helen Christou Gallery
Feb. 27-28 Global Drums! Featuring steel drums, African drums and dancers, Taiko Ensemble and the new Brazilian Samba Ensemble. 8 p.m. at the University Theatre
Through Feb. 27 Tales from the Vault Works from the U of L art collection as presented by Trap\door Main Gallery
Mar. 3 Music at Noon Nick Sullivan (trombone) and Bente Hansen (piano) perform 12:15 p.m., University Recital Hall, W570
Mar. 1 Abbondànza A memorable evening of gourmet food, fine arts and fun 6 p.m., CoCo Pazzo Italian Cafe
Mar. 10 Music at Noon Eugene Dowling (tuba) and Elinor Lawson (piano) perform
Mar. 7 through Apr. 18 Serendipity Celebrating chance and fortunate alignment of events as it provides artistic inspiration. Featuring a range of work produced by the Art Department faculty and staff as well as the U of L Art Gallery staff. Trianon Gallery (2nd floor, 104 5th St. S)
Mar. 4-7 Opera Workshop Music and Theatre, along with Dramatic Arts co-produce this comedic and tragic offering. Ten Belles and No Ring, a one-act comedic operetta, opens the evening, followed by the Greek tragedy Dido and Aeneas. Nightly, 8 p.m. at the David Spinks Theatre
Mar. 6 Art Now: Artist and writer, Neal McLeod 12 p.m., University Recital Hall, W570
Lectures
By BRIANNE ROHOVIE
Mar. 2 Architecture & Design Now: Vancouver art historian, Martin Segger 6 p.m., C610 Mar. 3 Art Now: Vancouver art historian, Martin Segger 12 p.m., University Recital Hall, W570
Feb. 15 University of British Columbia vs. Pronghorns 12 p.m. at Nicholas Sheran Arena
QIP fund helps ease challenge for students
Feb. 27 Art Now: Vancouver photographer, Susan Stewart 12 p.m., University Recital Hall, W570
UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE
Performances
Feb. 24 Now Showing presents On the Ice of Labrador La Compagnie Montreal Danse weaves personal stories with detailed movement. 8 p.m. at the University Theatre
Feb. 25 Women Scholars Speaker Series University of Saskatchewan Canada Research Chair, Monique Dube, presents The Special Role of Women in Aquatic Cumulative Effects Assessment 12 p.m., Students’ Union Building, Ballroom A
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Mar. 13 U of L Plays & Prose Competition Winners Public reading 7 p.m., David Spinks Theatre
Mar. 9 Architecture & Design Now: Calgary architect, Gerald Forseth 6 p.m., C610
the University of Lethbridge. To what degree and depth that interaction between students and their organization occurs can differ significantly with each individual. The majority of U of L students interact with the ULSU through one of the many programs or services that are regularly offered, such as the Health and Dental Plan, a club, the Zoo, a major music event, the
food court or through a scholarship opportunity. However, in a few special cases, the ULSU has been able to make a very personal impact on the lives of some of our students through the Quality Initiative Program (QIP) Disability Fund. “The QIP Disability Fund is set up to improve the quality of life for students who have disabilities,” says Adam Vossepoel, ULSU president. “Often,
sitting. Directory photos will be taken Mar. 4-6 in the Prentice Institute Boardroom (L1102). They are free of charge. To sign up for a session is very easy. Visit http://fusion. uleth.ca/crdc/photoreg/ and pick the day and time you wish to have your picture taken, then enter your e-mail username. If later you find you are unable to attend your appointed time, log back into the system and cancel your appointment so that others have an opportunity to sign up for that time slot.
The picture taken can be used for various publications, conferences or personal websites. It will be a professional portrait taken by the Curriculum ReDevelopment Centre (CRDC) and will also be used for your current automatic directory home page. You can then add biographical information, research interests, curriculum vitae, links, office hours and more. Contact the CRDC at 403380-1856 for more information.
a student’s required procedures or devices aren’t covered by health care or any other government agency because they aren’t considered ‘necessary’. However, without these, a student’s ability to participate in their university career would be affected in a very negative way.” The most recent case of the QIP fund being put to good use was the opportunity to provide a SpeechEasy fluency tool to
a student, which continues to assist that student in reducing stuttering. Other devices and treatments purchased through this initiative include implanted hearing aids and treatment for extreme migraine headaches. “We exist to ensure that U of L students’ needs are being met. That’s our mandate, to look out for students, and we do the best we can to keep that in mind every day,” says Vossepoel.
Blown away
Southern Alberta is famous for its westerly winds and they claimed another victim this month as they whipped against the 1st Choice Savings Centre for Sport and Wellness. A total of 16 exterior sidingroof panels on the west side of the centre were damaged.
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the Legend in focus Opera Workshop performs comedy and tragedy FEBRUARY 2009
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UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE
FINE ARTS
the element of tragedy.” The comedic half of the evening is the operetta Ten Belles and No Ring, written by Franz von Suppé and premiered in 1862. A master of the operetta form, von Suppé is credited with more than 40 of these Viennese musical delights. “Although many of his works are no longer in the standard operatic repertoire, several of his overtures, including Poet and Peasant and The Light Cavalry, frequently appear on orchestral pops concerts to this day,” says Hendsbee. Since operetta plots demand a stretch of the imagination, audiences are invited to suspend their disbelief, relax and enjoy the fun. A widowed father, who lives with his 10 lovely unmarried daughters, is desperate to find husbands for them and posts an advertisement. As luck would have it, a tenor happens upon the house and goes inside. The girls display their vocal charms to the young handsome suitor in an exotic potpourri of styles including Italian Aria, Viennese Waltz, Tyrolean Yodel, French can-can and Scots Ballad, among others. The performance features 30 singers and two small instrumental chamber groups. A string quartet and harpsichord perform in Dido and Aeneas, while Ten Belles features music by a local composer. “Sadly, the orchestral parts for Ten Belles were lost in a fire
By KATHERINE WASIAK
T
ake one lyric operatic tragedy, contrast it with one light-hearted comic romp and you have a great evening of entertainment. “The first half of the evening features the lyric tragedy Dido and Aeneas by Henry Purcell, arguably England’s greatest native composer,” says Dr. Blaine Hendsbee, director. “Although the work was first performed in a girls’ school in 1689, historians now believe it was actually commissioned for the court of King Charles II in 1685. Sadly, the King never saw it performed because he died unexpected the same year.” The U of L Opera Workshop performs Mar. 4-7 at 8 p.m. nightly in the David Spinks Theatre. The opera’s plot centres on the passionate, yet ultimately tragic, love affair between the Queen of Carthage (Dido) and Aeneas of Troy. Juxtaposed against the regal court scenes are episodes with three evil witches who wreak havoc on the lives of the two unsuspecting lovers. “Witches had become quite a standard feature in plays and operas of this period, starting as far back as Shakespeare’s Macbeth (1606),” says Hendsbee. “The witches conjure up a spirit to lure Aeneas away from his beloved Dido. After he abandons her, the broken-hearted Dido takes her own life . . . thus
forbes captures top prize James Forbes, a secondyear English major from Grand Forks, BC, captured first prize in the second annual U of L Play Right Competition. Forbes’ play ‘Blind Leading the Blind Date’ earned top billing in the competition and won Forbes a $1,500 award. He also receives dramaturgical support from the adjudicating jury, which consisted of Theatre and Dramatic Arts faculty Ron Chambers and Gail Hanrahan, as well as U of L alumna and well-known local actor, Erica Hunt. Second prize in the contest went to Adam Beauchesne, a fourth-year drama performance major from Lethbridge, for his play ‘Wake’. The third-prize winner was Trista Green, a third-year English major from Rosemary, Alta, for her play ‘A World of Our Own’. Beauchesne and Green received $750 and $250 awards respectively. Forbes’ Blind Leading the Blind Date is a comedy
about what happens when things do not go as planned, and the love stories that develop as a result. Things go wrong from the get-go when Frank, an incompetent matchmaker, sets up his pal Mike on a blind date and then points out the wrong girl at the restaurant. A series of escalating catastrophes ensue as Frank seeks to correct his mistakes, while Mike tries to win over the sweet and funny Julie in spite of it all. U of L alumnus Terry Whitehead generously supports the U of L Play Right Competition. Its aim is to encourage excellence and development in student playwriting. According to Play Right Prize Steering Committee members, Marek Czuma and Barbra French, each of the Theatre and Dramatic Arts faculty, this year’s competition attracted 14 entrants, up from 12 last year. A public reading of the first-prize winning play is scheduled for Friday, Mar. 13 in the David Spinks Theatre at 7 p.m. Admission is free.
Ten Belles and No Ring promises the comedic half of the evening as the U of L Opera Workshop takes the stage.
over 100 years ago,” explains Hendsbee. “Jesse Plessis, a talented U of L music composition student has written a special arrangement for a small elite combo of instruments to accompany Ten Belles.”
Ten Belles is set in a 19th century parlour and costumed in Victorian splendour. The Dido and Aeneas setting is more stark, with the costumes being a combination of stunning new designs by Professor
Leslie Robison-Greene and costumes generously provided by Pacific Opera Victoria. Tickets for the show are priced at $15 for regular admission and $10 student/senior from the U of L Box Office.
Global Drums! promises both sight and sound A feast for both the ears and eyes greets those who attend Global Drums!, Feb. 27-28, 8 p.m. in the University Theatre. High energy, interesting instruments and world music will fill the theatre as the U of L Percussion Ensemble takes over. Also on the program are special guests St. Patrick’s School African Dance Ensemble, performing a traditional dance from Ghana. “Our multi-faceted concert is visually exciting with dance, choreography and props combined with lush, beautiful and powerful music from around the world. And all of it is upbeat,” says Adam Mason, director. He also promises an interesting finale to the evening. “Our eclectic mix of music has something for everyone, including Debussy thrown in with classic rock by Edgar Winter and Santana.” The program features several percussion ensembles, including a classical ensemble, African drum and dance group, steel drum band, and Taiko Drums. “We’ll play the Taiko drums but it will be Taiko with a twist and that’s all I’m willing to say right now.” The 13 members of the Steel Drum Band provide the
The U of L Percussion Ensemble gives their new Taiko drums a workout. The group performed in the Atrium as part of a ceremony thanking the Lethbridge Twinning Society for donating six Taiko drums and stands to the University.
local audience with a sneak preview of the music they are taking to Japan in August. On the classical front, Brianne Cruickshank will play the new 5-octive marimba. “This instrument is the Rolls-Royce of marimba. It is beautiful to look at and amazing to hear,” says Mason. A grant from Canbra Foods enabled the group to purchase the instrument. New to the event this year
is a Brazilian Samba Ensemble. “The Samba group does extremely infectious drumming, the kind you’d hear at Carnival in Rio,” says Mason. “We’ve got parade drums, which makes the performers very mobile, so I’m inviting the audience to be prepared to participate.” Tickets for Global Drums! Are priced at $15 regular and $10 student/senior at the U of L Box Office (403-3292616).
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Carl Beam (1943–2005) Carl Beam, Abort One, 1980 From the University of Lethbridge Art Collection; Acquired by the University of Lethbridge Native American Studies Department.
Carl Beam was an internationally acclaimed contemporary Canadian artist of Ojibway descent, whose work will survive as a milestone in the development of the Canadian Aboriginal voice on the international art scene. Beam was born in 1943 at M’Chigeeng (West Bay) on Manitoulin Island. As a child he was sent to the Garnier Residential School in Spanish, an awful experience that would influence some of the powerful imagery used in his later work. Beam studied at the Kootenay School of Art, the University of Victoria (where he earned a BFA in 1974) and the University of Alberta. In 1986, the National Gallery of Canada was the first of the major Canadian galleries to recognize Beam’s work with the purchase of The North American Iceberg. From 1983–1992 his work was included in all the landmark exhibitions that altered the segregation of aboriginal art in Canada. Beam’s works can be read as juxtapositions between long held perceptions and challenging alternatives. Early influences during his formal studies included Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns and Robert Rauschenberg. His well known, appropriated images (a pieta, an embryo, Abraham Lincoln, Sitting Bull, a crow, the Pinta and Maria, and Einstein, among others) were cross-cultural symbols that he utilized to convey a universal message about the environment and the relationship between man, nature and the passage of time. With a linear pattern or formal grid, he tried to visually create the fourth dimension in his work, a spiritual space inhabited by a quiet intellect. That he was an artist of native and white heritage added to the scope of the complex subjects he chose. Beam’s work, executed in diverse media such as drawing, watercolour, etching, non-silver photography, photo transfer, collage, installation and ceramics, has been exhibited throughout North America as well as in Italy, Denmark, Germany and China. It is found in major Canadian and international collections including the National Gallery of Canada, the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Vancouver Art Gallery, the University of Lethbridge Art Gallery and the Albright-Knox Gallery in Buffalo, N.Y. In 2000, Beam was inducted into the Royal Canadian Academy of the Arts, and in 2005 he received the Governor General’s Award in Visual Art and Media. He died July 30, 2005, of complications arising from diabetes.
Carl Beam, Cross & Self Validate, 1980 From the University of Lethbridge Art Collection; Acquired by the University of Lethbridge Native American Studies Department.
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