January 31, 2003
SSHRC Supports $950,000 Community-University Research Program
Posted January 31, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 31, 2003 2003-01-19-AR
SSHRC Supports $950,000 Community-University Research Program
With the help of a $400,000 federal grant, University of Saskatchewan
researchers and their Saskatoon community partners will undertake an almost
$950,000 research program aimed at helping to solve local problems such as
child poverty, housing shortages, and community health issues.
In 1999, the Community-University Institute for Social Research (CUISR)
received $1.3 million over three years from the Social Sciences and
Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) and other community and university
partners. Now with another $400,000 from SSHRC and $546,920 in cash and
in-kind support from the U of S and community partners for the next two
years, the institute will review and expand its action-based,
community-oriented research.
The new funding will provide for 20 new projects. So far, more than 40
projects have been undertaken by CUISR in collaboration with its community
partners.
"The projects undertaken by CUISR have helped to build a more caring and
inclusive community and have provided extensive graduate student training
opportunities," said Bryan Harvey, U of S Acting Vice-President Research.
"This is not research that sits on a shelf - it's research that is having an
impact on many aspects of the social and economic lives of Saskatoon
residents and will assist policy makers."
Among CUISR's preliminary research findings:
- Street prostitutes were arrested three times more often than "johns",
received harsher sentences and were on average 23 years younger than the men
charged, according to a study of Saskatoon arrests made under section 213 of
Canada's Criminal Code (communicating to buy or sell sex). Local initiatives
such as the community-based rehabilitation program Operation Help are
addressing social and economic problems that drive women to sell sex. This
research may bring about changes in the Criminal Code.
- Community groups and business partners are working on a design concept and
business plan to develop neighborhood-based grocery stores along with a
warehouse for local produce and a resource centre for on-the-job training.
The departure of Saskatoon's full-size grocery stores from low-income
neighborhoods has made shopping difficult for people with little access to
transportation.
- Gays, lesbians, and bi-sexuals have a shorter life expectancy and face a
greater rate of health problems, such as depression, suicide, smoking, and
substance abuse, than the heterosexual population. These problems result
from coping with society's negative responses to sexual orientation. The
result is that homophobia is costing Canada millions of dollars annually.
www.usask.ca/cuisr/Publications/currentnews.pdf
- In partnership with CUISR, The Star-Phoenix newspaper published a special
26-page insert on January 20, 2001 entitled "Taking the Pulse" that
describes and interprets the Saskatoon quality-of-life survey results. This
was an innovative way of sharing new knowledge with citizens in 76,000
homes, in addition to the more traditional academic journal articles.
www.canada.com/saskatoon/starphoenix/specials/pulse/pulsecity.html
The SSHRC grant is a "testament to the co-operation and trust that has been
fostered among community groups and university academics over the past three
years and that will continue into the future," said CUISR co-director and
geography professor Jim Randall.
"Although we are still going to be taking on new projects and will continue
to build relationships across organizations, we are now entering a phase
where we will be assessing our impact on policy change, on building research
capacity, and determining whether our activities have made a difference in
the lives of Saskatoon and Saskatchewan residents."
"CUISR is a solid partnership between community and university researchers
determined to find better answers to chronic problems plaguing our city,"
said community CUISR co-director Kate Waygood, a Saskatoon city councillor.
"This research gives more people in Saskatoon a voice in policy discussions
and debates, and is having a cumulative impact on the community."
To date, 36 reports have been published from the research and more than 13
peer-reviewed articles have been published or are in the works.
There are 14 researchers and eight community partners involved with the
latest grant: City of Saskatoon, Quint Development Corporation, Saskatoon
Health Region, the United Way of Saskatoon, the Saskatoon Credit Union,
Saskatoon Communities for Children, the Saskatoon Regional Economic
Development Authority, and The StarPhoenix.
CUISR will host an international conference May 8-10 at the Saskatoon Delta
Bessborough on how partnerships among universities, community groups,
government, and the private sector are initiated and maintained. More
information is available at: www.usask.ca/cuisr/cuexpo
For more information about CUISR, visit: www.usask.ca/cuisr For information
about SSHRC, visit: www.sshrc.ca
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For more information, contact:
James Randall
Professor of Geography
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5678
jim.randall@usask.ca
Councillor Kate Waygood
Community Development Worker
Saskatoon District Health
(306) 655-4950
waygoodk@sdh.sk.ca
Kathryn Warden
Research Communications Officer
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2506
kathryn.warden@usask.ca
Dore Dunne
SSHRC Media Relations Officer
(613)-992-7302 or 371-0105
dore.dunne@sshrc.ca
January 30, 2003
U OF S RECEIVES FUNDING TO UPGRADE COMPUTER NETWORK
Posted January 30, 2003
For Immediate Release - Jan. 30/2003
Prepared by Saskatchewan Industry and Resources and University of
Saskatchewan Research Communications
U OF S RECEIVES FUNDING TO UPGRADE COMPUTER NETWORK
The University of Saskatchewan is receiving a major boost from the
provincial government to help upgrade the campus computer network.
The government is providing nearly $4.8 million in funding to the University
of Saskatchewan Research Network (USR-net). The funding is part of a $15
million upgrade the university is making to its computer network to handle
increased demands of both the institution's growing research programs and
the Canadian Light Source synchrotron. USR-net will connect up to 10,000
computers in more than 40 buildings and serve the networking needs of
faculty, staff and students.
Provincial support comes from the Innovation and Science Fund (ISF) and
matches the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) contribution under a
program to help universities acquire the infrastructure needed to conduct
world-class research. The remaining funding for the project will come from
the U of S, supplier discounts, and other sources.
"Our investment in USR-net ensures the research community can continue its
cutting edge work as well as accessing vital sources of information around
the world," Industry and Resources Minister Eldon Lautermilch said. "We're
committed to key infrastructure that ensures the future is wide open for our
researchers, with new opportunities, new jobs and new careers for them here
in Saskatchewan."
The total investment in USR-net will help the university meet heavier
research demands in such evolving programs as computer networking, medical
imaging, structural sciences, nanotechnology and bioinformatics. The new
infrastructure will deliver increased capacity to all researchers and
improve access to CA*Net, an optical Internet service that has been
described as the national "backbone" research network.
"Investing in state-of-the-art equipment such as USR-net is providing
Saskatchewan's researchers with the tools they need to conduct leading-edge
research," President and CEO of the Canada Foundation for Innovation David
Strangway said. "This kind of investment is critical to strengthening the
capacity of Canada's research institutions to train future researchers and
invest in our science and technology leaders."
"This critical upgrade of our campus computer network will benefit every
user, providing a tremendous boost to research and greatly benefiting our
teaching, learning and business services," U of S Acting Vice-President of
Research Bryan Harvey said. "It will also enhance our collaboration with
research groups in Canada and abroad, enabling our researchers to transfer
large amounts of data quickly and reliably."
The project is led by Rick Bunt, Associate Vice-President of Information and
Communications Technology. IBM Canada Ltd. was selected through a
competitive bidding process to provide state-of-the-art technology
infrastructure and expertise, including Cisco equipment and maintenance
services.
The Innovation and Science Fund provides support to Saskatchewan
universities, colleges, and research institutes on projects receiving
approval and funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the Canada
Research Chairs, the Canadian Health Services Research Foundation, and the
Canadian Institutes of Health Research.
The CFI is an independent, not-for-profit corporation established by the
government of Canada in 1997 to strengthen the capacity for innovation in
Canadian universities and research institutions.
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For more information, contact:
Bob Ellis
Industry and Resources
Regina
Phone: (306)787-8277
Email: rellis@ir.gov.sk.ca
Suzanne Quinn
Canada Foundation for Innovation
Ottawa
Phone: (613)996-3160
Email: Julie.Carl@Innovation.ca
Kathryn Warden
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
Saskatoon
Phone: (306)966-2506
Email: kathryn.warden@usask.ca
January 28, 2003
Kirkpatrick Travel Awards Announced
Posted January 28, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 28, 2003 2003-01-18-ED
Kirkpatrick Travel Awards Announced
Sheila Carr-Stewart and Jennifer Nicol, faculty members in the College of
Education, University of Saskatchewan have been selected as recipients of
the Kirkpatrick Travel Award for 2002-2003.
Sheila Carr-Stewart is an Assistant Professor in the Department of
Educational Administration who teaches at the undergraduate and graduate
levels.
Her primary research interest is in First Nation education, particularly in
the area of education as a treaty right and First Nation educational
governance. The Kirkpatrick Travel Award will support her to study the
implementation of the Mi'Kmaq Education Act in Nova Scotia, and the effects
on Mi'Kmaq education, governance mechanisms, and the relationship between
the Mi'Kmaq and the federal and provincial governments.
Jennifer Nicol is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Educational
Psychology and Special Education. She has a longstanding interest in music
as a therapeutic medium and is in the process of compiling a Canadian
database of music therapy initiatives meant to benefit adolescents and
at-risk youth.
As a recipient of the Kirkpatrick Travel Award, Nicol will travel to Regina
to meet with accredited music therapists involved in programs benefiting
youth. She will observe and participate in the delivery of programs as well
as gather information on music activities, responsive adaptive strategies,
program logistics and structure, and factors pertinent to the particular
context of Saskatchewan.
The Kirkpatrick Travel Fund is administered jointly by the University of
Saskatchewan College of Education, the University of Saskatchewan Alumni
Association, and the Saskatchewan Teachers' Federation. The annual award
celebrates the contribution the late Dean Emeritus Balfour Kirkpatrick made
to education in Saskatchewan.
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For more information, please contact:
Dr. Ken Jacknicke
Dean, College of Education
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-7647
For photos, please contact:
Erin Taman
Communications Officer
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-6919
U of S Receives Funding for Urban Aboriginal Database
Posted January 28, 2003
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jan. 28, 2003
Prepared by Saskatchewan Industry and Resources and University of
Saskatchewan Research Communications
U OF S RECEIVES FUNDING FOR URBAN ABORIGINAL DATABASE
An urban Aboriginal database at the University of Saskatchewan is receiving
a provincial investment of $50,000.
The funding toward this $125,000 project will result in more detailed
information on one of the most rapidly growing populations in the province.
By better analysing population growth and demographic change, socio-economic
structure and economic participation, governments and other institutions can
design better programs for urban Aboriginals.
Provincial support comes from the Innovation and Science Fund (ISF) and
matches the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) contribution under a
program to help new faculty members acquire the infrastructure needed to
conduct world-class research.
"We are committed to providing Métis and First Nations people access
to meaningful opportunities and programs," Industry and Resources Minister
Eldon Lautermilch said. "Aboriginal economic development is extremely
important to our province's long-term health. It makes sense that we need to
understand the demographics of a growing urban Aboriginal population in
order to serve them successfully."
The dramatic increase in Aboriginal urbanization in recent decades, and
projections of rapid growth in this population, create a need for more
detailed information not met by current published data. The database will
be created from new cross tabulations of existing census data.
"This state-of-the-art database will provide some of Saskatchewan's
researchers with new analysis capabilities," President and CEO of the Canada
Foundation for Innovation David Strangway said. "It will enable them to
push the limits of their research and produce results that may one day have
a true impact on policy decisions."
"This research will support important timely research projects on urban
Aboriginal peoples planned by one of Canada's foremost social geographers,
Evelyn Peters, holder of the Canada Research Chair in Geography," Acting U
of S Vice-President of Research Bryan Harvey said. "For the first time,
data will exist that shows the changing location and population
characteristics of Aboriginal people in major cities, information that will
be useful for programming and policy-making."
The Innovation and Science Fund provides support to Saskatchewan
universities, colleges, and research institutes on projects receiving
approval and funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the Canada
Research Chairs, the Canadian Health Services Research Foundation, and the
Canadian Institutes of Health Research.
The CFI is an independent, not-for-profit corporation established by the
Government of Canada in 1997 to strengthen the capacity for innovation in
Canadian universities and research institutions.
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For more information, contact:
Bob Ellis
Industry and Resources
Regina
Phone: (306)787-8277
Email: rellis@ir.gov.sk.ca
Suzanne Quinn
Canada Foundation for Innovation
Ottawa
Phone: (613) 996-3160
Kathryn Warden
University of Saskatchewan Research Communications
Saskatoon
Phone: (306)966-2506
January 27, 2003
PROVINCE FUNDS BIOMATERIALS RESEARCH AT U OF S
Posted January 27, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 27, 2003 2003 01-17-OTHER
Prepared jointly by Saskatchewan Industry and Resources and University of
Saskatchewan Research Communications.
PROVINCE FUNDS BIOMATERIALS RESEARCH AT U OF S
Provincial funding of more than $145,000 will help the University of
Saskatchewan set up a special biomaterials program to advance medical
research.
The provincial investment in this $412,000 project will enable the
university's Department of Chemistry to buy research equipment to produce
and analyse new biomaterials and nanomaterials (structures smaller than
one-billionth of a metre). These materials have many potential applications
including the treatment of artificial heart valves and other medical
implants to ensure they are compatible with the body and resistant to
infection.
Provincial support comes from the Innovation and Science Fund (ISF) and
matches the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) contribution under a
program to assist new faculty members acquire the infrastructure needed to
conduct world-class research.
"Researching biomaterials will result in exciting discoveries and intensify
competitive opportunities for Saskatchewan firms," Industry and Resources
Minister Eldon Lautermilch said. "Saskatchewan will also be making important
contributions to new solutions for environmental and biomedical problems
shared globally. This funding reinforces the university's important role in
keeping us at the forefront of a highly competitive, knowledge-based
marketplace."
An estimated 17 million people in the U.S. and Canada have benefited from
biomaterials technology, generating a $40 billion per year medical device
industry. The University of Saskatchewan's innovative research will focus on
a class of new and versatile biomaterials, which can be tailored to suit
specific needs.
"This facility will bring together some of Saskatchewan's top researchers in
the field of nanotechnology," President and CEO of the CFI David Strangway
said. "Its equipment is of the cutting-edge quality required to truly
bolster Canada's innovation capacity."
"The design of new materials, biomaterials in particular, is a high research
priority for the university and for Canada," Acting U of S Vice-President of
Research Bryan Harvey said. "This state-of-the-art equipment will also
complement facilities at the Saskatchewan Structural Sciences Centre, the
Facilities for Biomolecular Research, and the Canadian Light Source."
The research will be led by Heinz-Bernhard Kraatz, associate professor of
chemistry, who holds a Canada Research Chair in Biomaterials.
The ISF provides support to Saskatchewan universities, colleges, and
research institutes on projects receiving approval and funding from the
Canada Foundation for Innovation, the Canada Research Chairs, the Canadian
Health Services Research Foundation, and the Canadian Institutes of Health
Research.
The CFI is an independent, not-for-profit corporation established by the
Government of Canada in 1997 to strengthen the capacity for innovation in
Canadian universities and research institutions.
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For more information, contact:
Bob Ellis
Industry and Resources
Regina
Phone: (306) 787-8277
Email: rellis@ir.gov.sk.ca
Suzanne Quinn
Canada Foundation for Innovation
Ottawa
Phone: (613) 996-3160
Email: julie.carl@innovation.ca
Kathryn Warden
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
Saskatoon
Phone: (306) 966-2506
Email: wardenk@duke.usask.ca
January 23, 2003
Artists work together to encourage others
Posted January 23, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 23, 2003 2003-01-13-EXT
Artists work together to encourage others
On February 6, Artists-in-Residence from three rural districts will present
their work and describe their experiences as working artists at a unique
public event at the University of Saskatchewan's Bruno Ursuline Campus.
"The Extension Division wants to develop artistic interest and activity in
rural areas," says Kate Hobin, Director of the Community Arts Program at the
University of Saskatchewan's Extension Division. "By getting together, the
Artists-in-Residence can share arts programming ideas among communities, and
give aspiring artists in the area an idea of the diversity of artistic
endeavour."
Ceramic artist and sculptor Judy McNaughton (Artist-in-Residence at Prince
Albert) and figurative painter Carol Wylie (Artist-in-Residence at Quill
Plains) will join Bruno Artist-in-Residence Belinda Harrow, also a painter.
The program starts at 7 p.m. in the Ursuline Hall. The fee is $5, or $2 for
students and children.
"Artists-in-Residence are often very isolated, so it's wonderful that
they've taken the initiative to work together to encourage the arts in rural
Saskatchewan," says Hobin. "Apparently, this joint presentation is a first
under the provincial Artist-in-Residence program."
The event caps a year of exceptionally diverse public programming in the
arts at the Bruno Ursuline Campus, ranging from painting to photography,
from history projects to pottery, with programs for adults, families,
children, and teens. The University of Saskatchewan Arts Council
Artist-in-Residence position at the Bruno Ursuline Campus was recently
extended to March 2004 thanks to a renewed grant from the Saskatchewan Arts
Board.
Located 90 km from Saskatoon, the Bruno Ursuline Campus hosts university
Extension Division programs in community arts, agriculture, business, and
horticulture, as well as serving as an all-inclusive retreat and conference
location.
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Artist bios
Judy McNaughton is originally from a rural community outside Weyburn,
Saskatchewan. She graduated with a bachelor of fine arts from the University
of Regina with a major in ceramics and a minor in sculpture. Since
graduating in 1994, she has maintained a studio practice as a ceramic
artist, exhibiting both functional and sculptural work. She recently
finished a two-year contract in Estevan as the Potter-in-Residence. She is
presently the artist in residence in the Midtown Community of Prince Albert.
Carol Wylie is a figurative painter who is currently the Quill Plains
Artist-in-Residence. She graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Art from
University of Saskatchewan in 1996 and has exhibited throughout western
Canada and the United States.
Belinda Harrow is the Artist-in-Residence for the University of Saskatchewan
Arts Council out of the Bruno Ursuline Campus. She studied fine art at the
University of Saskatchewan, and received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from the
Nova Scotia College of Art and Design. She has exhibited in Canada, New
Zealand, Scotland, and England.
For more information please contact:
Belinda Harrow, Artist-in-Residence
University of Saskatchewan Arts Council
c/o Bruno Ursuline Campus
Tel: 306-369-2927 Fax: 306-369-4188 Email: belinda.harrow@usask.ca
www.extension.usask.ca/go/bruno
Digital photographs of Belinda Harrow's work (on display until Feb. 23 at
the Mendel Gallery in Saskatoon) and Judy McNaughton's work are available
from:
Roberta Mitchell Coulter, Marketing
Extension Division, University of Saskatchewan
Telephone: (306) 966-5508/343-1297
Fax: (306) 966-5567
Email: Roberta.Coulter@usask.ca
January 22, 2003
U of S President gives report to community in Regina
Posted January 22, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 22, 2003 2003-01-09-OTHER
U of S President gives report to community in Regina
On Tuesday January 28th, University of Saskatchewan President Peter
MacKinnon will give a report on the university's strategic direction,
including current activities and decisions about the future, at a luncheon
event in Regina. The theme of the report will be Saskatchewan's future in
the knowledge economy and it will focus on the province's role in Canada's
innovation agenda.
"The University of Saskatchewan is a cornerstone of the province and our
decisions have far-reaching consequences for Saskatchewan," said MacKinnon.
"Our graduates can be found in every corner of the province, contributing to
the economic, social, and cultural life of their communities. Our research
and development activities, which surpassed $100 million last year, are
providing a focus for innovation and growth in Saskatchewan."
Since being appointed president of the University of Saskatchewan in 1999,
MacKinnon has visited centers around the province, meeting with secondary
school representatives, business and government leaders, and members of the
alumni. Each location on the provincial tour has included a public report on
the decisions the university leadership has made and the strategic direction
they are following to ensure the University of Saskatchewan continues to
serve this province during its second century.
"It is the University of Saskatchewan, not the University of Saskatoon,"
MacKinnon said. "We have an obligation to listen to all Saskatchewan
residents, not just those in our city."
The President's Report to the Community will be held at the Hotel
Saskatchewan on January 28th at 12:00 p.m. and all media are welcome to
attend.
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For more information, please contact:
Cindy Paquette
President's Office
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6640
(306) 230-4200 (cell)
Cargill Invests Nearly $1M in Innovative Livestock Nutrition Studies
Posted January 22, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 22, 2003 2003-01-10-AG
Cargill Invests Nearly $1M in Innovative Livestock Nutrition Studies
SASKATOON, SK. Scientists from the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) and
the National Research Council's Plant Biotechnology Institute (NRC-PBI) have
been awarded nearly $1 million from Cargill, the global food and animal
nutrition company, for research aimed at improving livestock health and
finding alternatives to antibiotics.
The research team will use cutting-edge molecular technologies to study the
diverse species of organisms that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract of
animals -- new knowledge that could improve livestock nutrition and pave the
way for effective alternatives to antibiotic use in agriculture.
Cargill Feed Applications, a supplier of innovative specialty feed
ingredient products and programs, will have the opportunity to commercialize
the research findings.
Antibiotics are added to animal feed for the treatment and prevention of
bacterial infections and to promote livestock productivity. But with growing
concern about antibiotic resistance, the animal nutrition industry is
seeking alternative ways to monitor and control the bacteria present in the
digestive tract of food animals.
Andrew Van Kessel, a U of S professor of animal and poultry science, will
work with NRC-PBI scientists Sean Hemmingsen and Janet Hill to improve a new
diagnostic tool developed by Hemmingsen and colleagues at University of
British Columbia. They will use the tool to identify and quantify bacteria
in the intestines of chickens. They've already had preliminary success in
using the tool for similar work in pigs.
"We are very pleased to be associated with the University of Saskatchewan
and NRC-PBI on this project," said Wade Robey, Director of Research and
Development for Cargill Feed Applications.
"The more we learn about factors which influence animal digestion and
gastric function, the more effective and consistent will be our programs for
controlling pathogens and optimizing animal performance. Our collaborators
have a demonstrated track record of scientific achievement in this area.
These capabilities coupled with Cargill's broad participation in animal
production and nutrition science should provide an excellent opportunity for
success."
"This funding will advance the search for ways to reduce reliance on
antibiotics and maintain both the health of Canadian livestock and viable
export markets," said Bryan Harvey, U of S Acting Vice-President of
Research. "The project also exemplifies the exciting collaboration taking
place between U of S and NRC-PBI researchers on our campus."
"The research tools that we are developing and using for this project can be
applied in many other fields in which microbial ecology plays critical
roles," said Hemmingsen, who is also a U of S adjunct professor. "These
include agriculture, food and water safety, environmental protection and
human health."
To find alternatives to antibiotics, scientists need to determine what kinds
and levels of intestinal bacteria are present, and how dietary and other
management changes affect their populations. That information has been
difficult to obtain with conventional bacterial culturing techniques.
"To date, only 60 per cent of the estimated 500 organisms in the small
intestine of animals have been cultured," said Van Kessel.
With the new tool, the DNA sequences of a portion of the chaperonin-60
(cpn60) gene, which is present in each bacterial organism, will be used as a
genetic "name tag" for each bacterial species found.
"We hope to gain new insight into intestinal bacterial communities that has
been previously unattainable with culture-based technologies," said Van
Kessel.
Cargill is an international marketer, processor and distributor of
agricultural, food, financial and industrial products, with 90,000 employees
in 59 countries. Cargill Feed Applications is focused on creating
innovative, value-based solutions for improved animal nutrition and
performance.
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For more information, contact:
Andrew Van Kessel, Ph.D
Associate Professor
Department of Animal and Poultry Science
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-4136
andrew.vankessel@usask.ca
Sean Hemmingsen, Ph.D.
Senior Research Officer
(306) 975-5242
Sean.Hemmingsen@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
Kathryn Warden
U of S Research Communications Officer
(306) 966-2506
kathryn.warden@usask.ca
www.usask.ca/research
Lisa Jategaonkar
NRC-PBI Communications Officer
(306) 975-5571
Lisa.Jategaonkar@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
http://www.pbi.nrc.ca/en/pbi.htm
W. Wade Robey, Ph.D.
Director, Research and Development
Cargill Feed Applications
(952) 984-0332
wade_robey@cargill.com
http://www.feedapplications.com/
January 20, 2003
Order of Canada Appointments from the U of S
Posted January 20, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 20, 2003 2003-01-07-OTHER
Order of Canada Appointments from the U of S
Two distinguished Canadians closely associated with the University of
Saskatchewan have been named Officers of the Order of Canada.
Gordon Thiessen, Chair of the University's Board of Governors, is being
recognized for his vision and leadership as Governor of the Bank of Canada
from 1994 to 2001. During his tenure, Thiessen played a crucial role in the
development and evolution of the Canadian monetary system and was
instrumental in lowering inflation and interest rates, as well as promoting
economic growth.
Michael Bancroft, U of S adjunct professor of chemistry and Acting Director
of Research for the Canadian Light Source (CLS) (www.lightsource.ca) on the
U of S campus, was one of the first Canadian chemists to promote the use of
synchrotron radiation in research. He has been a key player in the
development of the CLS, Canada's first synchrotron, scheduled to be
operational in 2004.
"We're delighted that these two prominent Canadians who have provided
outstanding service to the university have been selected for our country's
highest honour for lifetime achievement," said U of S President Peter
MacKinnon.
The Order of Canada honours Canadians who have demonstrated merit,
achievement and service to their communities. Created in 1967, the Order of
Canada has three levels of achievement - Companions, Officers and Members.
Born in Ontario, Thiessen grew up in a number of Saskatchewan towns. He
studied economics at the U of S and received a Bachelor of Arts degree with
Honours in 1960 and a Master of Arts degree in 1961. He was awarded a Ph.D.
in Economics from the London School of Economics in 1972. In 1997, the U of
S awarded him an honorary Doctor of Laws.
He is a member of numerous boards and is campaign chair for the
Neuromuscular Research Partnership.
Michael Bancroft, who led a University of Western Ontario initiative that
enabled Canadian researchers to purchase synchrotron beamlines at a Madison,
Wisc. facility, has been a leading proponent of building a synchrotron in
Canada for leading-edge
science and innovation.
"Thanks to his sustained efforts, this new technology offers the potential
for significant breakthroughs in medical science and engineering and
increased economic benefits for our country," his citation states.
Recently, Bancroft was selected as one of 33 Canadian innovation pioneers
showcased in a new essay collection launched by the Canada Foundation for
Innovation (CFI). http://www.innovation.ca/publications/index.cfm
A million times brighter than the sun, synchrotron light is used to probe
the structure of matter. Using light from infrared to X-rays, scientists can
examine biochemical and geochemical samples with greater accuracy and
precision than has previously been possible in Canada.
The $174-million national facility, wholly owned by the U of S, is one of
the largest scientific projects in the country. Close to 2,000 users are
anticipated annually, with up to 100 scientists from almost every discipline
working on experiments at any given time.
In his synchrotron research, Bancroft works with companies such as ESSO and
Chevron to help develop better anti-wear coatings for engine oil additives.
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For more information, contact:
Tina Merrifield
Senior Communications Officer
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2213
Kathryn Warden
CLS/U of S Research Communications Officer
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2506
January 17, 2003
Saskatoon in Space
Posted January 17, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 17, 2003 2003-01-06-OTHER
Public Service Announcement
Marc Garneau, President of the Canadian Space Agency,
Guest Speaker at University of Saskatchewan
Everyone is invited to attend a presentation by Canadian Space Agency
President Marc Garneau, who will talk about Canada's groundbreaking work in
space science, and Saskatoon's contributions to the Canadian Space Program.
Dr. Garneau's speech will be followed by a question and answer period.
This event is hosted by the University of Saskatchewan's Department of
Physics and Engineering Physics, the Institute for Space and Atmospheric
Studies and the Canadian Space Agency.
What: Presentation by Marc Garneau, President of the Canadian Space Agency
entitled:
" Saskatoon in Space "
When: Friday, January 24, 2003 at 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Where: University of Saskatchewan
Place Riel Theatre
Arts Building (Room 241)
9 Campus Drive
Saskatoon
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For more information, contact:
Tina Merrifield
Senior Communications Officer
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2213
Email: tina.merrifield@usask.ca
January 16, 2003
Saskatchewan Health Researchers Awarded More Than $900 Thousand Through Federal-Provincial Program
Posted January 16, 2003
Prepared by CIHR, SIR, SaskHealth, University of Saskatchewan, and
University of Regina.
SASKATCHEWAN HEALTH RESEARCHERS AWARDED MORE THAN
$900 THOUSAND THROUGH FEDERAL-PROVINCIAL PROGRAM
For immediate release
SASKATOON (January 16, 2003) -- Health research in Saskatchewan will receive
a major boost from $943,032 in grants awarded through a federal-provincial
partnership program.
The money comes from the Saskatchewan Regional Partnership Program (RPP), a
joint initiative of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and
the Province of Saskatchewan.
Five researchers at the University of Saskatchewan and one at the University
of Regina have received funding, based on the scientific merit and potential
health impact of their projects.
-Thomas Hadjistavropoulos (U of R - Faculty of Arts) - $140,556 to study the
fear of pain and fear of falling among seniors.
-Helen Nichol (U of S - College of Medicine) - $82,312 to study the toxic
effects of iron accumulation in cells, using the Canadian Light Source
synchrotron at the U of S to assist in the research
-Jim Thornhill (U of S - College of Medicine) - $174,584 to study the
effects of cellular mechanisms of stroke damage in the brain
-Valerie Verge (U of S - College of Medicine) - $171,312 to study cellular
effects of long-term damage and repair activity in neural tissue
-Lingyun Wu (U of S - College of Medicine) - $203,224 to study the effects
of metabolism in hypertension
-Xia Zhang (U of S - College of Medicine) - $171,044 to study the effects of
lithium in preventing cannabis withdrawal syndrome, work that could result
in effective treatment for marijuana addicts.
This is the fourth year of a five-year, $10-million dollar CIHR/RPP grant
program equally cost-shared between the Province of Saskatchewan and CIHR.
"This is an investment in the future of Saskatchewan," said Minister Ralph
Goodale, Minister of Public Works and Government Services, on behalf of
Health Minister Anne McLellan. "Through this innovative partnership, and
ever increasing federal investments through the Canadian Institutes of
Health Research, Saskatchewan has developed a culture of innovation and
excellence in health research. The projects we are announcing today will
help to improve the health of all Canadians, while also attracting and
retaining some of the best researchers in our province."
The provincial government increased its commitment for health research by $2
million this year in the Action Plan for Saskatchewan Health Care.
"Health research gives us important information that we require to make
better health-care decisions for the benefit of the people of this province
and this country," said Saskatchewan Health Minister John Nilson.
"Provincial research dollars attract additional health research funding and
projects, and attract medical and other health care specialists to the
province."
"We are not only supporting exciting new break-throughs in health science
but are encouraging the potential for further scientific research, for
further education and for further job creation," Industry and Resources
Minister Eldon Lautermilch said. "The opportunities, and the future, are
truly wide open for health and all scientific researchers here in
Saskatchewan."
Successful projects were selected by an advisory committee composed of
representatives from CIHR, U of S, U of R, Saskatchewan Health, Saskatchewan
Industry and Resources, and the Health Services Utilization and Research
Commission.
"This critical program is helping to foster our growing strength in health
research and to build success in the highly competitive national grant
competitions," said U of S President Peter MacKinnon. "Over the past few
years, this program has supported many of the CIHR-funded researchers on
this campus, helping us to retain some of our best researchers."
"This grant acknowledges the dynamic and innovative work being done at the
University of Regina in the area of health research. It is further evidence
of the strong research culture that is developing at the University. That
culture is supported by the work of a number of emerging research teams,
including those led by Dr. Hadjistavropoulos," said U of R President David
Barnard.
The funding partnership was created in May 1999 to make up for an imbalance
in funding to researchers in certain areas of Canada, and to build and
maintain a healthy research community in these areas.
Since its creation, the Saskatchewan-CIHR Regional Partnership Program has
provided support to 39 researchers and has invested $7.98 million in health
research in Saskatchewan.
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FURTHER INFORMATION:
Janet Weichel, Media Specialist
Canadian Institute for Health Research
Phone: (613) 941-4563
Joan Petrie, Communications Branch, Saskatchewan Health
Regina, SK
Phone: (306) 787-7802
Therese Stecyk, Communications, University of Regina
Regina, SK
Phone: (306) 585-4683
Kathryn Warden, Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
Saskatoon, SK
Phone: (306) 966-2506
January 10, 2003
Kenderdine Art Gallery presents Excerpts from conversations with myself
Posted January 10, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Friday January 10, 2002 2002-01-03-OTHER
Excerpts from conversations with myself
Artist Jeff Nachtigall
Excerpts from conversations with myself introduces the quirky aesthetic of
Regina artist Jeff Nachtigall, an artist whose riotous subject matter looks
like a stream-of-conscious encyclopedia. Nachtigall's work will be on
display at the Kenderdine Art Gallery at the University of Saskatchewan from
January 17 until February 23.
Nachtigall will be working in the Arts Tunnel (an underground pedestrian
causeway), from January 15 to 17. He is collaborating with a five visual
art students from the Department of Art and Art History, (Maureen Latta,
Maxine Proctor, Lindsay Sharmen, Tod Emel, and Edie Marshall) to produce a
public art installation that will be on display in the Tunnel until February
23.
A roving public reception to mark the completion of the Arts Tunnel project
begins at 4:00 p.m. Friday, January 17, in the Arts Tunnel. The reception
will continue at the Kenderdine Art Gallery (second floor Agriculture
Building, 51 Campus Drive) at 5:00 p.m. to mark the opening of the
exhibition. Admission is free.
Nachtigall's work samples a wide swath of visual traditions: comic books,
toys, folk art, TV and pop culture. By combining images from disparate
sources with his own autobiographical drawings, he mimics the eclectic and
unrelenting flow of media imagery as a continuous backdrop for everyday
social and domestic narratives. Excerpts from conversations with myself, is
comprised of boyish drawings of cars, guns, stylized he-men, and wild
animals, along with a Saskatchewan flag, cartoon characters, and soft
upholstered fabric. Nachtigall has described his art practice as putting
"... a spigot in my subconscious." Despite his seemingly random sources,
Nachtigall's storyboard assemblages convey an unmistakable precision. They
invite the viewers into the act of story making, and in so doing undermine
the passivity of a spectator.
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For more information about Nachtigall, or to arrange an interview, please
contact:
Helen Marzolf
Kenderdine Art Gallery
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6662
marzolf@skyway.usask.ca
Excerpts from conversation with myself was organized and toured by the
Mackenzie Art Gallery with the assistance of The Canada Council for the
Arts, SaskPower, Saskatchewan Arts Board. The University of Saskatchewan
(Facilities Management), the Beamish Trust, University of Saskatchewan
Students' Union, and the Canada Council for the Arts supported Jeff
Nachtigall's visit and the Arts Tunnel project.
January 02, 2003
College of Medicine Kicks Off 50th Anniversary Celebrations
Posted January 02, 2003
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - January 2, 2003 2003-01-01-ME
College of Medicine Kicks Off 50th Anniversary Celebrations
Today, the College of Medicine kicked off their 50th Anniversary
Celebrations by announcing their itinerary of upcoming events.
The College of Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan plays a vital role
for the province in health care education, research, policy and practice. A
School of Medicine was first established in 1926 and in 1953 it became a
full degree granting college.
To celebrate this milestone, the College of Medicine 50th Anniversary
Committee has planned a full calendar of activities.
- Public Lecture Series - This series will be held once a month at the
Frances Morrison Library. Some of the College's best-known staff will be
featured. The first in the series is entitled "How to Live to be 100" and
will be presented at 7:30 p.m. on Wed. Jan.8 by Dr. Tom Wilson.
- Symposium on Medical Education - This one-day Medical Education Symposium
for faculty and students will be held Oct. 3. The focus will be on examining
and evaluating changes in medical education over the past 50 years.
- Hospital Shows - Displays will be set up at Royal University Hospital, St.
Paul's Hospital, and Saskatoon City Hospital to highlight special areas of
excellence in each of these teaching hospitals.
- Highlights in Medicine Conference and Reunion - The Northern Medical
Symposium will be held in La Ronge from June 22-24 as well as the Highlights
in Medicine conference in Saskatoon from June 25-28. A commemorative stained
glass window and donor wall will be unveiled during the weekend festivities.
- Student Essay Contest - This contest will be directed to students in
grades 7-12 to stimulate interest in health science careers and in the
College of Medicine.
- Medical Show - This is an open house event for the public to attend.
Booths of information on common health issues will be on display during this
family-orientated weekend. This year's event will run Oct. 18-19 and will
focus on the ten systems of the human body.
*Reminders about these events will be issued to media closer to their
actual dates.
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For more information or to obtain a detailed media kit, please contact:
Daphne Tkachuk
Executive Director
College of Medicine Alumni Association
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-8864
tkachuk@duke.usask.ca
