Adult male, nymph, adult female and larva of blacklegged ticks

Blacklegged ticks exist in three active stages:  Larva, nymph, and adult. Unfed larvae and nymphs are light in colour and very difficult to see.  Unfed adult female blacklegged ticks are approximately 3 to 5 mm in length; and are red and brown in colour.  Adult males are smaller than females and are uniformly brown in colour.

Signs that you may be infected is a circular rash surrounding the spot where the tick bit you and may be followed by symptoms like fatigue, chills fever, headache, muscle and joint pain and swollen lymph nodes and if these are left untreated, the disease can progress to a second phase which includes migraines, weakness, multiple skin rashes, painful or stiff joints, abnormal heartbeat and extreme fatigue.  Lyme disease can be successfully treated with antibiotics. Treatment is most successful in the early stages of infection. Early stage treatment consists of a course of antibiotics for two to three weeks.

Click here for a map of sites where blacklegged ticks have been identified in Manitoba

So, it you want to avoid being a tick’s next meal

• Stay on trails and avoid deep bush.  Ticks can’t leap at you but if you brush up against them, they can latch on to you.
• Apply insect repellents to clothing and skin that contain DEET to repel ticks.
• It may not look good, but if infected ticks are in your area you have to dress properly.  Wear long sleeved shirts that fit tightly around the wrist and long legged pants tucked into socks or boots and NO SANDALS!
• After spending time outdoors, inspect yourself and your children for ticks.  Bathing soon after coming indoors is a good way to find ticks.

In general, tick numbers can be lowered by:

• Reducing cover and shade, through activities such as keeping grass mowed short, removing leaf litter and trimming other vegetation (shrubs and trees) to minimize shade cover in commonly used areas.
• Also consider creating ‘tick unfriendly’ habitats by using dryer and less water-demanding materials such as mulch, gravel, decks or cement in commonly used areas.

Will my pet get Lyme disease?

Most dogs and cats do not become ill when exposed to the Lyme disease bacteria. Some may develop symptoms such as fever, loss of appetite and joint pain. Tick control products such as tick collars or topical treatments are available for pets. Removal of the tick within 24 hours protects the pet from infection. Vaccines to prevent Lyme disease are also available for dogs. Contact your veterinarian for more information.

Summer is upon and we deserve to enjoy the nice weather.  Keep safe!

More information is available on the following websites:

www.gov.mb.ca/health/lyme

http://www.cbc.ca/news/health/story/2013/05/17/f-lyme-disease.html

A recent milestone birthday got me thinking – how does one maintain youthfulness despite opposing forces? I’ve decided to adopt the philosophy of: “You don’t stop having fun when you get old; you get old when you stop having fun.” Children have mastered the art of “fun”, but how can we, as respectful adults, have some fun that’s also good for us? Three things come to mind when I think about a happy child: treats, pets, and unbridled silliness.

Treats. When we had faster metabolisms, we could eat anything we wanted. But we can still enjoy some treats in moderation. Some of them even have health benefits! The Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate website will help you discover how this delicacy can do things like improve mood, reduce cholesterol, fight aging and soothe a cough (what?!). You can also enjoy recipes, read news, shop for deals and even play games!

Pets. There’s plenty of research attetsting to the fact that pets can improve our physical, mental and emotional well-being. My personal experience is a testimony that this is absolutely true! Discover the amazing interactions between animals and people and the ways animals truly do support our wellness. The slideshow, 27 Ways Pets Can Improve Your Health, comes complete with some pretty adorable photos. Be prepared to say “Awwwww!” and watch your stress levels decrease!

Unbridled Silliness. For those who have always wanted to join an organized run but feel intimidated by a marathon or big fundraiser, this is for you! The Color Me Rad 5K is coming to Winnipeg, July 20-21! What greater motivation to keep running than knowing that every 5 minutes you’ll get plastered with another colour of paint! And the finish line looks even better with the threat of an all-out colour-bomb war with your teammates and competitors! By the end you’ll be one colourful, happy, healthy mess! It’s so simple – physical activity and personal fitness goals combined with pure unbridled silliness!

Have a FUN summer!

The week on the Monday Mash:

If you’re like me, you don’t get up from your desk very often.  That is why these stretches that you can do at your desk are so important.  They will help revive your energy.  When I feel I have been sitting too long, I get up and walk around.  I am going to try these stretches too!

At home I enjoy doing crafts.  Right now I am working on a cross stitching project for my newphew who just turned 1.  The project has farm animals around the centre.  In the centre will be his name and birth date.  I have completed 2 of the 4 animals, so I have a long way to go still!  I came across this cross stitching website that have tips and free charts if you are interested in cross stitching.

There is only one bug you want your office to catch, and that is Laughter!  Check out this article about how important laughter can be to your office.  I have found that laughing with my colleagues makes for an enjoyable day!

Hidden Hero Awards

The Hidden Hero Award recognizes employees or teams who put RRC’s core values into action while quietly contributing to success for the whole organization.

Fall 2012

Kristine Metcalfe, Nursing Instructor
(Nominated by Karen Wall, Chair of Nursing)

Kristine is a well-loved instructor who brings creativity to her approach in teaching, while developing clinical scenarios that students can expect to encounter when they graduate. She is diligent in all aspects of her work, responding quickly and thoroughly to requests during office hours or over the weekend, making time to tutor students at their convenience, and sharing her wealth of computer knowledge to help others advance. Projects such as her student photo album help to promote inclusiveness while creating a connection between students and staff. Kristine takes a lead role in organizing the department Christmas party any other functions, and her volunteer efforts promote a strong sense of community within her department. That passion extends beyond the College to her involvement with the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing and the Internationally Educated Nurses conference.

Spring 2013

Nirdosh Ganske, (Lead) Instructor, Mechanical, Manufacturing and Communications
(Nominated by  Jacqueline Wood, Diversity & Immigrant Student Support)

Nirdosh Ganske promotes and achieves student success in incredible ways that often go unrecognized yet still make a profound difference. As lead faculty member in the Technology Management Post-Graduate Diploma program, she creates a safe and welcoming environment for students not only at RRC, but also outside the College when she helps students on her own time. At RRC, Nirdosh goes above and beyond by ensuring students that are new to Canada have all the resources they need by way of an in-depth preparation and orientation program that spans a week prior to classes starting in the fall. During the school year she also makes sure that students get all the instruction they require, usually providing extra class time on a regular basis. Nirdosh works frequently with departments throughout the College to integrate programs like the LGBTT* Initative to the unique needs of international students. This promotion of inclusiveness and respect for all is one of the very many characteristics that make her a Hidden Hero.

Joanne Rodeck – Educational Assistant, Allied Health Services
(Nominated by Michele Sykes, Medical Laboratory Services)

Joanne Rodeck is the example of ‘going above and beyond’ and is an example to her peers. She continuously works to ensure all systems are in place so that students are concentrating on their studies and not distracted by unnecessary disorder. Inclusiveness is second nature to Joanne; she actively encourages staff and students to participate in recruiting activities, including Discovery Days, Open House and Children of the Earth. She’s also an active volunteer and coordinator on these programs, and her passion for her career consistently encourages prospective students, her peers, students and her community. Joanne is a model of professionalism and integrity. She offers advice and guidance to students in a non-judgmental way, holding the highest expectation for herself so she may lead by example. Her positivity and passion are only a few of the details that make her a Hidden Hero.

Leadership at All Levels Awards

These awards recognize individuals who model exemplary leadership qualities and actions, and who contribute significantly to organizational vision and change.

Fall 2012

Judy McMullen, Assistant Controller
(Nominated by Chau Le, Controller’s Office)

Judy is a  natural leader, a likely by-product of her positive disposition, ability to influence others, and optimistic attitude. Those who work with her never feel stressed and always feel like a special part of a cohesive team. It’s a wonder Judy can stay so humble after being with the College for 30 years, and playing an integral part in so many changes and improvements. Among her many accomplishments, she recently led the financial team through the integration of Colleague, acting as cheerleader when times became difficult and helping smooth the transition with her infectious positive influence. Judy is dedicated to the College and her team; she is passionate about what she does and it comes through in her work every day. This passion also shows in her volunteer work for RRC, where she coordinates DUG, a training program for Colleague users.

Spring 2013

Rob Ataman, Coordinator Manufacturing Technicians
(Nominated by Leon Fainstein, Mechanical Engineering Technology)

Rob is committed to the College’s Core Values, this is apparent in his demonstrated achievements and other involvements within and outside RRC. His leadership is evidenced by his commitment to student success and by his participation in such activities as:

• Coordination/construction of the RRC Solar Car
• Skills Manitoba Technical Chair (14 years)
• Skills Canada Technical Chair (13 years)
• Coordinating/selection/purchase of Mobile Training Labs
• Member of College Council
• College Daycare board member
• Member of all Department advisory boards

Rob is also an active STARS team member (Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System). He finds creative ways to dispose of old and outdated equipment by selling it to companies that can find uses for materials. Rob’s achievements demonstrate leadership by example, and it’s this example that will help pave the way for his graduates to be successful.

Research Excellence Awards

These awards recognize faculty, students or staff who’ve made an outstanding contribution in the field of applied research, who’ve established an environment that welcomes and supports research endeavors, or who’ve made an outstanding contribution to a course, project program or community partner.

Fall 2012

Leon Fainstein, Instructor, Mechanical Technology
(Nominated by Bill Noakes, Chair, Mechanical, Manufacturing and Communications)

As a Mechanical Engineering Technology instructor, Leon has provided leadership in many innovation projects — leading the team that designed and manufactured the RRC Solar Car, working with students in the development of an electric motor bike, and developing the unique Sterling engine project. Other accomplishments include: developing courses that are both academically and industry-applicable, an environmentally-friendly alternate energy program, and setting up the machine shop model factory (a key component in the TSERC grant for a Technology Access Centre). Leon sets the example of developing and leading projects, always including his students and ensuring all faculty and students have the opportunity to be involved in research activities. He works closely with students, offering all the time they need for support, and his courses are popular because of his teaching style, which incorporates valuable personal experience. His co-op opportunities are similarly popular, and he consistently accepts project advisory roles from his students, for whom he goes above and beyond.

Spring 2013

Tatjana Brkic, Instructor, Business Administration
(Nominated by Gail Shimonek, Chair, Applied Commerce & Management Education)

Tatjana has integrated research into ACME though two initiatives: Gateway to Applied Research in Business and Applied Research in Renewable Energy. These programs resulted in:

• Implementation of business-related research initiatives within ACME
• Realization of eight pilot projects within two business programs at RRC, and resultant development of Applied Research reports in five distinctive areas
• Exposure of 150 RRC students to social innovation and applied research activities
• Integration of an applied research component within five different courses
• Integration of the environmental and social responsibility-related issues course curriculum for both Business Administration and International Business programs

Tatjana has enhanced connections between academic programs and applied research activities with community and workforce needs. She and her student teams have familiarized faculty and decision-makers in ACME with the opportunities associated with the implementation of applied business research in academic curriculum within the School of Business and Applied Arts.

Safety Champion Awards

These awards recognize College employees who promote a safe work environment and contribute to RRC’s culture of safety. Nominees contribute to safe work practices and demonstrate a safety-conscious ethic to fellow staff and students.

Fall 2012

Anita Keith, Instructor, Aboriginal Education and ACCESS Programs
(Nominated by Sandra Williams, Aboriginal Education and ACCESS Programs)

Anita is an energetic and passionate champion for innovative health and safety training. She has successfully implemented the “Wings of Change” teaching modules into the Aboriginal Education department’s Safety and Wellness course. Through her work, Anita’s students are informed, empowered and taught to become proactive about safety in the workplace. Her approach provides Aboriginal students with better insight into the root causes of dealing with their workplace — including health and safety-issues — and continues to help Aboriginal workers transform their personal and work lives.

Angel Unrau, Administrative Assistant, School of Indigenous Education, Winkler
(Nominated by Keith Doerksen and Joanne Gonda, Regional Campus, Winkler)

Angel is an example of how one person can make a huge, meaningful difference in the safety culture of RRC. She was whole-heartedly embraced the role of Winkler Campus safety representative, showing a commitment to excellence, a willingness to learn, and leadership in the area of health and safety. The result is a positive impact on safety culture that benefits all who work and learn at the campus. Her friendly nature and customer service-focused attitude have made for a great fit in implementing many safety-related programs and improvements.

Teaching Excellence Awards

These awards recognize faculty members who have exhibited exemplary instructional qualities over a sustained period, and who have made an outstanding contribution to the educational environment at Red River College.

Continuing Education 2012

Michelle Alarie, Instructor, Nursing
(Nominated by Charlene Currie, former Program Manager, Health Sciences)

(Michelle Alarie, second from left)

Michelle began teaching at RRC’s Distance Education Department in 2001. Since then, she has taught a number of Continuing Education programs, including Health Care Aide, Health Unit Clerk and Medical Device Reprocessing Programs. She has also taught theory courses and skills labs, and has provided instruction during clinical placements. Michelle also very compassionately assumes the role of the student advisor.

Sandie Foster, Instructor, Business Analyst
(Nominated by Kirk Johnson, Program Manager, IT and Professional Studies)

(Sandie Foster, centre)

Sandie worked as a Senior Business Analyst and Project Manager at MTS for 37 years, remaining there until her retirement a couple of years back. In 2008, she played a lead role in the redevelopment of the Business Analyst program at RRC, and later that year helped the College secure its designation as an Endorsed Educational Provider from the International Institution of Business Analysts. Starting in 2009, Sandie added online courses to her regular in-class duties. She is described as a “caring, knowledgeable, and dedicated” instructor with a roster of valuable industry connections.

Industrial Technologies 2012

Mark Queen, Instructor, Civil Engineering Technology
(Nominated by Bob Watson, Instructor, Civil Engineering Technology)

Mark Queen has been with the College since 1999, and has instructed a wide range of courses in both the Geomatics Technology and Municipal Engineering Technology programs. Recently, he has redeveloped, reorganized and delivered two courses for RRC’s bachelor’s degree in Construction Management. Students in Mark’s classes describe him as punctual and well-prepared for each day’s lecture. He’s extremely well-versed in his subject area, and always challenges his students — who in turn speak openly about their respect for Mark’s instructional methods and intelligence.

Gordon B. Hughes, M.D., program director for clinical trials at the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders at the National Institutes of Health, has first-person experience of the perils of loud whistles acting as a referee at club soccer matches. “Everyone on the field needs to hear the whistle, so I would blow it hard,” says Dr. Hughes. “No matter how brief the sound was, it would hurt my ears every time. That’s a warning that the sound is too loud and potentially harmful.”

So what can referees do to protect their hearing? Dr. Hughes suggests using “vented” ear molds. “They are custom-fitted to the ear canal and reduce sound by up to 25 decibels,” he says. “That reduction will let referees perform their duty while protecting their ears all day.”

Whistles aren’t the only things making loud noises at sporting events, however. Cheering fans, marching bands, or other signaling devices such as starter pistols, add to the cacophony. So, whether you’re a professional referee or a spectator, think about wearing hearing protectors to save yourself from hearing damage.

What do you do to protect your hearing? Molded vented plugs do work so you can enjoy the noise and excitment as well as protect your hearing. It is a Win Win!

Health Services

This week on the Monday Mash:

Gardening with Native Plants.  It’s that time of year (finally) when gardens are being planted. If you’re looking for a good selection of native plants, shrubs and trees you can check out Prairie Originals which has a huge selection of potted plants and seeds. Also look at their resources, which includes landscaping tips, links to other local eco-networks, farmer’s markets, and nature photography. There is also a link to the Living Prairie Museum (located on Ness) which sells some plants as well, in addition to providing other resources, workshops and information.

Summer Reading.  Are you looking forward to enjoying a warm summer day sitting back and reading a good book while lazing in a hammock or comfy chair?  If you’re that type of person, consider dropping in to the Library closest to you and see what they have to offer.  One of the more interesting books that I’ve recently read is A History of the World in 100 Objects by Neil MacGregor of the British Museum, which exists as a book and a BBC radio series. This series tracks human history as told through little vignettes on selected objects, making it an easy book to pick up and put down at your leisure.

Discovering Art. The Winnipeg Art Gallery is one of many places that you can drop in to find interesting art.  They currently have a 100 Masters show on that goes until Aug 18. They also have some summer art camps beginning in early July. A couple of other interesting local galleries to consider are Ace Art and if you’re looking for something edgier the Plug In Gallery usually has something to grab your attention.

If sending a child to camp:

• Send a signed consent for them to be seen and treated by a health provider;
• Provide your contact number in case you have to be called for any reason; and,
• Send a copy of their immunization record along with any allergies and health instructions.

This helps them receive the attention they may need in as quick a manner as possible.

Camps are a special time for children and some may have health conditions or medications that make them more susceptiple to illness than the average child and they may not even be able to have certain protective vaccines. Feel good that your child is immunized for their protection so they can create an environment that helps others have a fun experience and be protected.

Check here for Manitoba Health information about vaccines and immunization schedules specific for various age groups.

Health Services

As raising money for charity is becoming increasingly difficult, taking on extreme challenges for charity can both capture potential donors’ attention and drive your motivation to work out like never before. After all, those adrenaline fueled stunts and epic, unforgettable, adventures do demand a certain level of endurance and physical prowess, non?

What can better capture the imagination than a six day multi-terrain race across the great, stony Gobi desert in China? Or perhaps eleven days whitewater rafting down the Zambezi into the depths of Victoria Falls, wrestling with the biggest commercial white water rapids in the world?

How about Bowling for MS at the Dakota Bowling Centre, Saturday June 1 from 5 to 8 pm, when your Red River Rebel Riders (rrrr...) host their first extreme MS fundraising event of 2013? $20 ($10 for children 12 and under) will cover your bowling, shoes, pizza, pop, popcorn, and a donation. Bring friends and family for a fun, adrenaline fueled evening with your crack team. Call Marnie at 204-949-8521 for tickets (click here for details).

And you don’t have to be a Mark Cavendish to join the team either. You too could be getting your legs into shape for cycling the 150 km Riding Mountain Challenge. Just check out our three latest members: Marnie Boulet (the driving force behind our bowling adventure), Mar-Zeuz Macasieb, and Miguel Guzman. All three work as Educational Assistants in the Accounting & Computer Education department at the Roblin Campus.

Marnie: “I am very excited to be riding with rrrr… I never thought in a million years that I would ever ride my bike for 150 kilometers. But this is a challenge that I know as an individual I can do to help those who cannot.  Four out of my six aunts and uncles on my father’s side have MS and I have seen what it does to them personally and what it does to the “family”.  My goal is to make enough money to help with the fight against MS.”

Miguel: I was born in Mexico, moved to Canada 13 years ago, and became a Canadian citizen five years ago. This will be my first MS Bike Tour. I like to create awareness about MS. I have biked for fun for many years, and bike to work every day. I am really excited about the Riding Mountain experience.

Zeus: “I moved from the Philippines six years ago and this will be my first MS Bike Tour. I did not know of MS until I heard it from my colleagues who ride to work. Joining the team will give me an opportunity to create awareness about MS, especially in the Filipino community who may be less educated about the disease. I am a rookie cyclist who started biking to work last summer. I find it challenging and exhausting (when riding against the wind) but mostly fun and enjoyable. I bike to work at least 3 times a week plus bikes with my daughter on the weekends. I look forward to riding with the team to Riding Mountain and raising funds for an important cause. Go Red River Rebel Riders!!!”

• Join the 2013 team and train with us this spring and summer to get in shape for the big ride Sept. 7. Email guy@spright.ca for details or simply click here and then click on the Join this team button.
• Donate securely online at http://mssoc.convio.net/goto/rrrr. All monies raised go to supporting those suffering with MS or to MS research.

Together we can end MS (and some of us might also get into the best physical shape we have ever been)!

Here’s a short video on the importance of tetanus.

Just let your health provider or clinic know it has been 10 years since your last shot.

Whether for work, or play, be protected.

Be wise Immunize!

Health Services

Gear up this summer for some wellness approved summer festivals!

• Skip the workout! Spend an evening (or a week and half) hiking from venue to venue around downtown Winnipeg, while watching some of the best theater the 2nd largest Fringe Festival in North America has to offer.
• Music is medicine! Check out the Winnipeg Folk Festival for some natural (legal) happiness therapy.
• People from Japan, Italy and the Scandinavia are some of the world’s healthiest. Learn their secrets of food and dance at Folkorama. Check out the VIP Cycle Tour to burn calories between pavilions!
• Let the kids run wild at the Winnipeg International Children’s Festival. BUDGET SAVER ALERT! Did you know that children under 12 can pay once and visit everyday of the festival? Just keep that wristband on and trade in at the box office when you go in again.

Need more culture? Visit Travel Manitoba to fill your summer with fun!