Veterinary Technology Program Popular at Ridgetown

Spring 2005
Yo u r R i d g e t o w n C o l l e g e C o n n e c t i o n
A S E M I - A N N U A L N E W S L E T T E R F O R A L U M N I , S TA F F , S T U D E N T S , F R I E N D S A N D C L I E N T S O F R I D G E T O W N C O L L E G E
Veterinary Technology Program Popular at Ridgetown
MISSION: “The Ridgetown College Veterinary Technology program strives to produce graduates that provide responsible,
compassionate care for animals, have excellent technical skills, and are integral members of the veterinary team.”
Ridgetown College is well-known for
its fifty–year history of agriculture
diploma education. In the past ten
years, however, it has also quickly
gained a reputation for providing
leading edge animal health training.
returned to Ridgetown in 1995.
With new state-of-the-art facilities
that were built to accommodate
the specialized requirements of
veterinary industry training, the
program hit the ground running.
An Animal Health Technician diploma
was first initiated at Ridgetown College
in 1966. In 1969, however, this program
relocated to the new Centralia College.
When Centralia College closed its
doors, the program, now called the
Veterinary Technology diploma,
From the beginning, students have
had high praise for Ridgetown’s
facilities and instructors. “Ridgetown
College gave me great experience in
surgery and medicine,” says Tammy
Redding, a 1996 grad. “I also had
wonderful instructors that encouraged
me in my studies.”
Now, ten years later,
the high number of
applicants for this
program proves its
continued popularity.
Each year, over 450
people compete for
the 40 available
openings in the
Veterinary Technology
program. This is
despite the fact that
eight colleges in
Ontario now offer this
course, up from four
in 1995.
There are many reasons why Ridgetown
College is the preferred choice for
students interested in a career working
with animals. “Students who attend
Ridgetown benefit from an excellent
technical and hands-on curriculum that
is reviewed regularly by an independent
advisory committee,” says Dr. Irene
Moore, Co-ordinator of the Veterinary
Technology Diploma program. “We also
offer students the opportunity to work
with both large and small animals,”
says Moore.
In addition to the conventional training
format, students can complete the
Veterinary Technology program through
Alternative Delivery, which combines
six fall and winter distance education
sessions with three on-campus summer
sessions. Both delivery options yield
equally impressive results; students
who graduate from Ridgetown College
consistently score top marks in the
North American Veterinary Technician
registration examination.
The high caliber of Ridgetown College’s
Veterinary Technology program has not
gone unnoticed by the veterinary
industry. The program is accredited
continued on page 2...
Director’s Message
For the first time since 1998, there is a new face on the Director’s Message. As many of you may
know, Dr. Gary Ablett has accepted a temporary assignment with the University of Guelph as Chair of
the Plant Agriculture department, and I am pleased to be serving the College until his return. Having
worked in several capacities during my past 30 years at Ridgetown College, it is indeed an honour
and an opportunity to now contribute to the Ridgetown College family in this leadership role. Today,
I am happy to share with you some noteworthy highlights of Ridgetown College activities.
It takes much dedicated work to make the annual Student
Open House, REVIEW a success. REVIEW was a great event
again this year and everyone who attended enjoyed new
activities, as well as old favourites. Congratulations to the
students and staff for their excellent efforts.
In May, Ridgetown College will celebrate the first graduating
class of students from the new Environmental Management
Diploma program. This has been a very successful new
program and applicant numbers are strong for fall 2005.
We are proud of the dedicated staff that have worked so
hard to implement and deliver this exciting new program.
Congratulations to Program Co-ordinator, Ron Fleming,
and each of the knowledgeable teaching staff for their
fine instruction efforts.
This August, two fun events are being held for Ridgetown
College graduates – an Alumni golf tournament and an Alumni
BBQ. This is a great opportunity for you to come back to the
College and renew old friendships. More details on page 11.
project, the team is continuing the final phase of the fund
raising campaign. With 500 full-time students, and increased
enrollment expected in September 2005, the need to complete
this capital project increases. I hope everyone will consider
how he or she can make a difference with a gift to this
important project.
In closing, I invite you to join with me in welcoming Jana
Green to the temporary contract position of Conference
Co-ordinator. Jana will be in this position for one year while
Marlene Morris is on maternity leave. Anyone wanting to book
special events or facilities at Ridgetown College can contact
Jana at 519-674-1588. Congratulations to Marlene Morris on
beginning her family.
I hope you enjoy the diversified stories about staff, students,
alumni and friends as you read this issue. We welcome your
comments by e-mail to [email protected].
Kindest Regards,
As the Ridgetown College Agri-Food Foundation approaches
home base on the Rudy H. Brown Rural Development Centre
Dr. Ron Pitblado
Acting Director, Ridgetown College
Veterinary Technology Program Popular at Ridgetown ...continued from cover
by the Canadian Veterinary Medical
Association and the Ontario Association
of Veterinary Technicians. The facilities
and procedures are accredited by the
Canadian Council of Animal Care and
the College of Veterinarians of Ontario.
Dr. Moore and her staff are currently
seeking something that will be a first
for any Veterinary Technology program
in Canada – accreditation from the
American Veterinary Medical Association.
Students wanting to continue their
education after graduating from this
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program have many options. Some
choose to attend the University of
Guelph, where they can receive up to
10 course credits towards a degree
program. An articulation agreement
with Purdue University also allows
students to transfer credits towards
Purdue’s baccalaureate degree in
Veterinary Technology.
The Veterinary Technology diploma is
not an easy program. The course-load is
demanding, but the rewards are great.
Combining their love of animals with
excellent training, graduates are able to
choose from many satisfying careers in
the animal care field, from running a
pet store, to managing a vet clinic, to
working in research.
Ridgetown College continues to work
hard to maintain its status as one of the
leading Veterinary Technology
programs in Canada. If you are
interested in learning more about this
program, please contact Dr. Irene
Moore at 519-674-1666.
1959 Graduate Well Deserving of 2004 Westag
Alumni Humanitarian Award
If being active keeps you young,
Allister Cameron will be 16
forever! For most of his life,
Allister has volunteered in various
organizations and been involved
in his community. Because of his
commitment to the community,
Allister is the deserving recipient
of the 2004 Westag Alumni
Humanitarian Award.
Allister Cameron was born in St.
Thomas and has spent most of his
life at R R 3 Dutton. As a teen-ager,
Allister enjoyed 4-H and completed
24 agricultural clubs. He was also
an active member of the Elgin
County Junior Farmers,
participating on the club’s square
dancing team and serving as
President. His experience in 4-H
and Junior Farmers helped him
acquire the skills, knowledge and
experience that have enabled him to
be such an asset to his community.
At a young age, Allister proved his
prowess in the field in plowing
competitions. At
the tender age
of 16, he
started a
three-year
reign as
Champion
Plowman
at the
Elgin
Plowing Match. Allister is still
involved in this activity, serving
as a Director for the Elgin County
Plowman’s Association.
both his local club and at the
District level and helped organize
the Dutton LEO club, a service club
for young people ages 12-19.
In 1957, Allister enrolled at the
Western Ontario Agricultural
School, graduating near the top of
his class in 1959. He has remained
involved in alumni activities,
helping out with fundraising for the
Rural Development Centre and
organizing the annual alumni
curling bonspiel.
Because of his participation in the
Lions Club, Allister has been
involved with many community
events and projects. Thirty-two
years ago, Allister had the idea to
honour area farmers with a Farmers’
Night. This highly successful event
has been held every year since,
featuring excellent speakers and
entertainment. He also started the
Sportsfest Weekend which is held in
Dutton every July. This is a major
fundraiser and a popular event,
with ball teams attending from near
and far. Allister can always be
counted on to be in the food booth
at the Wallacetown Fair and the
Kettle Creek Valley Pioneers’
breakfast, and is often seen working
charity Bingos or scrubbing the
kitchen floor in the Lions Den. It’s
easy to see why Allister has been
twice honoured as Lion of the Year.
Following graduation, Allister
farmed with his father and worked
part-time for the Ontario
Department of Agriculture. He
joined Farm Credit Corporation in
1963, retiring in 1998. “My greatest
satisfaction came from being able to
help my clients at the grass roots,”
says Cameron. The esteem in
which he was held was evident
when many of his former clients
attended his retirement party.
The community of Dutton has
benefited tremendously from having
Allister as a resident. Allister was
invited to join the Dutton and
District Lions Club in 1968 and has
had perfect attendance ever since.
He has held executive positions in
In the rare time that he’s not doing
community service, Allister enjoys
golfing and curling.
Allister and his wife Carolyn have
recently moved to a condo in
London, but in spite of the move,
he continues to be involved in his
rural community. “You can take the
boy out of the country,” he says,
“but you can’t take the country
out of the boy.”
Thank you for giving so much of
your time to the community, Allister,
and congratulations on winning the
2004 Humanitarian Award.
Allister Cameron and his wife Carolyn
3
Veterinary Technology Graduates Find Rewarding
Careers in Biomedical Research
When most students apply for the Veterinary Technology diploma at Ridgetown College, they picture themselves
caring for beloved family pets or large farm animals. Very few envision that their jobs will include snuggling up
to rats! Some Ridgetown grads, however, after obtaining their Registered Veterinary Technician status, have
found rewarding careers working with lab animals in research. And five of our graduates are working at
McMaster University.
McMaster University is located in Hamilton, Ontario
and is one of the leading institutions in Canada using
animals for biomedical research. Twenty animal health
technicians work at McMaster’s Central Animal Facility
(CAF), ensuring that thousands of research animals are
fed and watered, healthy, and have a clean environment.
Tammy Redding grew up in Hamilton and chose the
Ridgetown College Veterinary Technology program
because it offered the most versatility in an accredited
environment. She graduated in 1996, as part of
Ridgetown’s first Veterinary Technology class after the
program returned to Ridgetown College from Centralia.
Growing up on a dairy farm in Jarvis, Laura had
always been around animals. Her family also owned
Hagersville Pet Supply, so it was inevitable that Laura
would eventually work with animals.
Laura says it was easy to make the decision to attend
Ridgetown College. “Not only did Ridgetown offer one
of the leading Vet Tech programs in Ontario, but its
small size and rural setting allowed me to feel very
comfortable for my first time away from home,”
she says.
Laura got her first taste of laboratory animal medicine
during a senior year placement at the University of
For nine years after graduating, Tammy worked fulltime in multi-clinic practices in Hamilton in addition
to working part-time in an emergency clinic. In
December 2004, she decided to explore opportunities
in research and began working as a Junior Veterinary
Technician at McMaster. “A Vet Tech diploma from
Ridgetown prepares students for a variety of career
choices,” says Tammy. “It gives students the freedom
to make their own career path.”
Tammy enjoys her work in the laboratory and looks
forward to future career advancements. “There are
many benefits to working in a research setting, such
as a higher wage than the industry average, health
and dental benefits, and the potential to work your
way up in the field,” says Tammy. “Most importantly,
I like being involved in something that could result
in a higher quality of life for millions of people.”
While Tammy works in research to help others,
Laura Gee (‘99) chose a career in research for a more
personal reason. “I have been a diabetic since I was
seven years old and I really appreciate all the good
that can come from animal research,” says Laura.
“If it had not been for the dogs used for insulin
research at the University of Toronto in 1921,
I might not be here today.”
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Tammy Robson (left) and Amber Faraday with one of the thousands
of animals in McMaster’s research lab.
researchers, teaching
facility training courses,
and supervising junior staff
members.
“Any Veterinary Technician
with an interest in
laboratory medicine should
definitely seek a career in
research. I have been
working in the research
community for four years,
and have loved every
moment!” says Laura.
Tammy Robson, another
1999 grad, originally
wanted to be a veterinarian.
Her high school co-op
placement, however, helped
her realize that she
preferred the work done by
Laura Gee puts a mouse in an anesthetic chamber.
veterinary technicians.
Once this career path was
Guelph main campus. She had
chosen, Ridgetown College was her
always been interested in research, school of choice. “I definitely
and this placement confirmed
wanted to get my diploma at
her desire to pursue a career
Ridgetown because the facility is
in this field.
amazing,” says Tammy. “At the
After graduation, Laura put her
time, it was the only school
dream of working in research on
accredited by the Canadian
the back burner; she worked in
Veterinary Medical Association,
a clinical setting and as a sales
and the small town atmosphere
person for a leading pet food
allowed me to concentrate on my
manufacturer. Her passion for
studies.”
research finally came to fruition in Tammy began working at a small
2001 when she joined the Central
animal practice in Hamilton and
Animal Facility at McMaster. Laura thought she would stay there for
is now a Lead Technician,
her entire career. However, she
responsible for providing daily care soon felt that her talents weren’t
for several species of animals,
being fully utilized and began
providing technical assistance to
looking for a new challenge.
Tammy had heard from fellow
classmates Lucas Nightingale and
Shawna Lussier of their success
working in research facilities,
so in 2001 she accepted a job as
a technician at McMaster. Tammy
is now a Senior Health Technician
in McMaster’s CAF.
“Like me, I think many vet techs
working in a clinic reach a point
where they need a change,” says
Tammy. “By exploring a career in
research, I have been exposed to
more opportunities than I ever
thought possible.”
When Kelly Neil was hired in 2003,
she became the third 1999
Ridgetown grad to join the CAF
team. Kelly was raised in Kingston
and received a Bachelor of Science
degree from McMaster University
in 1997. That fall, she traveled
down the 401 to start her
Veterinary Technology diploma
at Ridgetown College.
Prior to starting College, Kelly
was sure she would end up in the
research field, but at the end of
senior year, she decided to work in
a mixed animal clinic in Fisherville.
“It was a great experience and I
was able to use a lot of the skills
I learned in school,” she says. But
after three years, she was ready
for a change and Kelly found
herself back at McMaster, this
time as an employee.
continued on page 6...
“By exploring a career in research,
I have been exposed to more opportunities
than I ever thought possible.”
– Tammy Robson, 1999 Veterinary Technology Graduate
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Veterinary Technology Graduates Find Reward in Biomedical Research
...continued from page 5
Like Laura Gee, Kelly is a Lead
Technician and is proud of this
achievement in her career.
“This type of job is not for all
technicians,” says Kelly. “You have
to start from the bottom and work
your way up, and there are times
when you can’t use all the skills
you were trained in.”
But because she sees great value
in her work, Kelly notes that her
job satisfaction is high. “Our job
is crucial for advances in the
prevention and treatment of
disease. Without our expertise
in taking care of these valuable
animals, biomedical research
would be impossible.”
Amber Faraday, class of 2002,
chose Ridgetown College because
her high school guidance counselor
advised her that it was the leading
edge school for Veterinary
Technology. Amber received her
diploma using the alternative
delivery format, which is a three
year program combining oncampus training in the summer
with correspondence courses
throughout the rest of the year.
This option allowed her
to continue to work while she
completed her education.
Amber began working as a Junior
Health Technician at McMaster
in the spring of 2004 and enjoys
being independent and having her
own job responsibilities. Like the
other Ridgetown grads at McMaster,
Amber is thrilled to be working in
research. “You are constantly
learning new things and you feel
like you are a part of something
huge,” she says.
These five Veterinary Technology grads are enjoying their careers in research.
Back (left to right): Laura Gee, Tammy Redding, Tammy Robson
Front (left to right): Kelly Neil, Amber Faraday
Amber is also very positive about
the job prospects for other
Veterinary Technology program
grads. “There are so many
opportunities in the vet tech
world. Feel free to try them all,”
she advises.
Veterinary Technology grads can now keep in touch and discuss industry
issues with a new Vet Tech Forum on the Ridgetown College website. Visit
www.ridgetownc.com/alumni/forum.cfm and click on Vet Tech Alumni for
more information or to post a notice.
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[email protected]
Donations of Time and Equipment Provide
Valuable Support to New Environmental
Management Diploma
In 2003, Ridgetown College began offering its newest program, the Environmental Management diploma. This
program has been very successful with over sixty-five students enrolling in the first two years, and even higher
enrollment expected in September 2005. The first class of students will graduate this May, and many have
already been offered positions in their field.
This program owes its success, in no small part,
to the generous support of several related businesses.
Lab tools, specialty glassware and chemical reagents
are all required in a well-equipped teaching lab,
and Ridgetown College has been fortunate to
receive valuable equipment donations from the
following companies:
BioMedia Unlimited, Ltd., Toronto, Ontario
Isaac Technologies Corporation, Windsor, Ontario
Jade Scientific, Canton, Michigan
Omstead Foods Limited, Wheatley, Ontario
Ontario Food Technology Centre, Chatham, Ontario.
In addition to the valuable equipment donated to the
program, one volunteer has provided hundreds of
hours of his time to help make the Environmental
Management diploma a success.
Armin Auerswald is a retired electrician from Stoney
Point. For the past year, Armin has been a fixture in
the environmental lab, refurbishing, repairing and
rebuilding the older equipment.
“There were many items in storage that were not
being used any more,” says Deborah Hills, an
instructor in the Environmental Management
program. “Having him return this equipment to
working order has been a wonderful gift. The labs at
Ridgetown College are now as well-equipped and wellmaintained as any industry lab, better preparing our
students for the workplace,” she says.
Armin is modest when praised for his work. “It gives
me something to do,” he says.
Many thanks to Armin and private industry for their
generous gifts of time and equipment to the programs
at Ridgetown College. Your contributions are
greatly appreciated.
Among his many tasks, Armin Auerswald (right) has rebuilt a water still, fabricated aluminum rings to contain samples, and
made beaker storage racks. He also installed this new muffle furnace and designed and manufactured the exhaust system for it.
7
Westag Alumni Association News
Westag Alumni Association President’s Message
Fellow Westags, Come on Back!
This summer, Westags are invited back to Ridgetown for two special events. A golf
tournament will be held on Friday, August 19th and the Alumni Association Annual Meeting
and BBQ will follow on August 20th. These events offer everyone a great chance to reconnect
with old friends and come back to a place we called home for a short, but important time.
See you this summer!
Maureen Hagan
President, Westag Alumni Association
Ridgetown College Alumni
Return for Annual Bonspiel
The Annual Ridgetown College Alumni Curling
Bonspiel was held on Saturday, January 15th at the
Ridgetown Curling Club. Sixty-four alumni and friends
of Ridgetown College participated in this year’s event.
“There was a great representation of graduates from
the last 52 years,” says tournament organizer Les
Hogg. “We had a team from the first graduating class
in 1953 and one curler from the class of 2004.”
Although they aren’t graduates, Ken Nesbit and Jim Young were
familiar faces to many curlers. Jim is a former Dean of Men and
Ken was the Recreation Director from 1978-1991.
Distance was certainly not a factor for the curlers.
Alumni from as far as Lucknow, Coldwater and
Jarvis made their annual trek back to Ridgetown
for the bonspiel.
first draw. Duane Morden (‘82) skipped his team of
Bryan Stirling (‘83), Pete Wright and Bryan Brodie
to the top spot in the 2nd draw.
Al Howard and his team of Brian Jackson, Al Kominek
and Dave Bilyea, all from the class of 1978, won the
The bonspiel committee is already planning next year’s
event, tentatively scheduled for January 14, 2006.
The Class of 1954 Gathers
to Celebrate 50 Years
In 1954, thirty-seven young men graduated from the
Western Ontario Agricultural School, eager to start a
career in agriculture. In November 2004, fifteen of
them came to the Alumni Banquet to celebrate their
50-year anniversary.
Congratulations to everyone in the
Class of ‘54 on this milestone!
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Back (left to right): Frank Holik, Jim Wilkins, Murray Wright,
Tony Tetrault, Ron Ireland, Glenn Wootton, Marv Little, Ray Little,
John Gleeson, Andrew Martyn
Front (left to right): Chris Wolff, Bruce Bycraft, Bill Bilton,
Norm Pierce, Bill Knights
Alumnus Gives the Coat Off
His Back to College Museum
Thanks to Harlan Nash, the Ridgetown College
museum has a new piece of history. Nash,
a 1955 grad, recently had his class jacket
restored and decided to give it to the
College to commemorate his 50th
anniversary. Harlan’s son Dale is a
1976 grad; he also has a class coat
but he’s not quite ready to part with
it yet – maybe in another 21 years!
Harlan (left) and Dale Nash show off a vintage WOAS jacket.
Alumni Corner
To have your news printed in a future issue of Roots, please contact Janet Nauta at 519-674-1504
or send an e-mail to [email protected] with the subject ‘Roots news’.
Rod Stapleton (‘67) and his wife Ann have four
married sons, six grandchildren and are looking
forward to the arrival of another grandchild this
spring. Rod recently retired from Freedom 55
Financial after 34 years as a financial security
advisor. Rod and Ann still live on the family
farm in Kingsville, Ontario.
Elizabeth (Geroly) Friedmann (‘77) lives in Port
Hope with her husband and three children. She is
an educational assistant for the Kawartha Pine Ridge
District School Board.
Lisa (Szabad) Jennings (‘84) has switched careers.
After more than 15 years as a lab technician/coordinator at 3M Canada in London, Lisa married
Scott Jennings in October, 2003. She now lives in
Parry Sound and is a stay-at-home Mom to her son
Aaron, born in January, 2004.
Terry Sleegers (‘95) married Jenny Sinasac in 2003
and they live in Ingersoll. Terry works at Kintore
Boxes Lumber Yard and also on the family farm.
Kim (Huson) Surette (‘97) married Paul Surette on
September 25, 2004. They are currently living in
Guelph where Kim works in a veterinary dental
referral clinic.
Janice Brooks (‘98) and Matthew Dick (‘99) were
married in November of 1999. They live near Owen
Sound and operate an organic cash crop, pork and beef
farm. Matthew drives a livestock truck and Janice is
home looking after the farm and their two children.
Gregg Ogilvie (‘00) is enrolled in the Doctor of
Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program (Class of 2008)
at the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph.
James Ring (‘03) married Sereena Trowbridge on
September 25, 2004. He and his wife recently moved
to Chipman, New Brunswick, where they have 150
acres of land. James hopes to one day clear this land
and start an agricultural enterprise. He currently
works at the Chipman Sawmill. James invites his
former classmates to contact him at
[email protected].
In Memoriam
Carl Shaw (‘57) passed away on February 21, 2005.
Scott Daly (‘82) died suddenly as the result of a car
accident on October 2, 2004. Scott and his wife
Jennifer lived in Dresden and owned Babcock Supply,
a precast concrete company.
Jake Hayward (‘97) passed away on February 8, 2005
as the result of a car accident.
Date Set for 2005 Alumni Banquet
All graduates from years ending in a 0 or 5 – THIS IS YOUR REUNION YEAR!
The 2005 Westag Alumni Banquet will be held on Saturday, November 19th at Club Lentina in Chatham.
Watch for your invitation in the mail in October.
9
Looking for Alumni Contact Info
The 2005 Westag Alumni banquet for graduates in years ending in a 5 or 0 is quickly approaching. Our alumni
mailing list is missing the addresses for some of these grads, and we need your help to get it updated. If you
have contact information for any of these people, please call Janet at 519-674-1504, or send an e-mail to
[email protected].
For a complete list of Ridgetown College “Lost Alumni”, visit www.ridgetownc.com/alumni/lostalumni.cfm.
1955
Clarence Cornelius
1960
Robert Brown
1965
John Bechard
Edmund Bezaire
Orvil Burnett
Danny Coward
William Demars
Phillip Humphrey
Paul Johnston
John Kelly
Edward Ouellette
John Patterson
Francis Robinson
John Watson
1970
William Desmond
John Featherstone
Daniel Havens
Ross Hills
Douglas Lees
Angus McArthur
Richard Pouget
John Robinson
Andrew Ryskamp
Wayne Thornton
1975
Howard Acton
John Alderson
Harry Arts
Robin Baker
John Buis
Marc Cookson
Frederick Cronkite
William Fulmer
Sandra Glover
Houston Hembree
Henry Hulshof
Daryl Hutton
10
[email protected]
Wolfgang Laush
Martin McCracken
Patricia Myers
Karen Stack
Kenneth Waites
Duane Watt
Grant Wilson
1980
Samuel Adie
Donald Armstrong
Edward Cambeta
Fay Cowan
Sarah Dekergommeaux
Richard Dougall
David Feaver
Pedro Fernandez
Kenneth Ford
Stewart Foster
Douglas Galbraith
Jacqueline Goldring
Kenneth Gray
John Griessen
Glenn Hope
Gordon Kemp
Harold Klassen
James Marshall
Barry McKay
Tom Mozny
Elizabeth Mulholland
Keith Nordemann
Vistasp Panthaky
Leo Parent
Betty Riepma
Kenneth Smith
Eric Stewart
Valerie Stuart
Cindy Van Hyfte
Kenneth Wall
Kevin Wallace
Laurie Webb
Grace Wesselink
Joanne White
Laurence Wiens
1985
David Bowering
Donald Buchanan
Cliff Carrothers
Diane Carrothers
Tim Cowan
John Dawson
Matthew Dunn
Michael Foote
Mark Forbes
Laura Goff
Gordon Illes
David Kints
Dianne Krushel
Robert Kuchta
Kathryn Lehman
Karen Mackie
David Marshall
John Neufeld
Scott Ousterhout
Joanne Pinsonneault
Keith Pretty
Nancy Sayer
James Smith
Stephanie Smith
Robert Stackaruk
Gerald Sullivan
David Sylvestre
Randy Thomas
Brian Thomson
John Van Dyk
Scott Young
1990
Rita Devries
1995
Jennifer Allen
Lisa Barry
Angela Bates
S. Paul Bechtel
James Butcher
William Clark
Mark Daponte
Marja De Jong
Ed Decuethe
Lela Dorrington
Julie Dray
Evert Dykman
Denise Erwin
Ruth Falkins
Cynthia Fieten
Michael Gautreau
Brian Hathaway
R. David Jenkinson
Jeffery Mirth
Katherine M. Moore
Lisa Murphy
Christina Nickles
David Penhale
Robert Ramsay
Leonard Roth
Catherine Selby
Murray Sharpe
Bernard Stickney
Staci Taggart
Deborah Tompkins
Melissa Vermeer
Melissa White
2000
Chris Ceaser
Tonya Hadwin
Tanya Killins
Christina McDermid
Wanda McNeil
Sabine Pelletier
Christie Poag
Margo Salts
Melissa Sharkey-Lapointe
Robynn Smith
Heather Spencer
Crystal Steffen
Welcome Back Westags!
Plan Ahead! Mark August 19th and 20th on your calendar.
This summer, Ridgetown College is planning two events for graduates.
Friday, August 19th
Saturday, August 20th
Westag Alumni Golf Tournament
A golf tournament for Westags and their guests will be
held on Friday, August 19th. This is a fun event and
golf skill is not a pre-requisite, just get your
classmates together to enjoy a summer afternoon
on the golf course.
Alumni BBQ and Alumni Association Annual Meeting
All graduates are invited to bring a guest and attend
the 2nd Annual Westag Alumni BBQ on Saturday,
August 20th.
Location: Ridgetown Golf Club.
Entry Fee: $65.00/person – includes cart, 18 holes
of golf, prizes and a steak dinner following the
tournament.
Format: Four person scramble – Tee-off times start
at 1:00 p.m.
To help organizers make arrangements for prizes and
carts, anyone interested in participating in the golf
tournament is asked to register by May 31st.
Location: Picnic Shelter on the main lawn of
Ridgetown College
Time: Begins at 3:00 p.m. – BBQ at 5:00 p.m.
Cash bar available
Highlights:
•
•
•
•
Update on what’s happening at Ridgetown College
Vintage car and tractor display
Alumni Association Annual Meeting
Lots of time to visit with your classmates and friends
*Watch your mail in July for more details!
For more infomation on these events, contact Janet Nauta, Alumni Services Co-ordinator.
Phone: 519-674-1504 E-mail: [email protected]
Registration Form for Westag Golf Tournament
Name of Alumnus: _______________________________________________________
Graduating Year:__________ Phone Number: ________________________________
Address: ________________________________________________________________
E-mail address: __________________________________________________________
Registration Deadline:
M AY 3 1 , 2 0 0 5
❐ I will be participating in the Westag Alumni Golf Tournament on Friday, August 19th.
My team members are:
2. ________________________________________________________________________________________
3. ________________________________________________________________________________________
4. ________________________________________________________________________________________
(You can also register as an individual and we will put you on a foursome)
❐ $65 per person entry fee enclosed
(make cheques payable to Ridgetown College)
Please return this registration form by May 31st to:
Janet Nauta
Ridgetown College
120 Main Street E
RIDGETOWN ON N0P 2C0
PHONE: 519-674-1504, FAX: 519-674-1530
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Introducing...
Our Ridgetown
Student Leaders
“To me, a leader is someone
who leads by example.
A leader sees others as
individuals but also as an
integral part of a group.”
Brendan Zettler
Senior, Agriculture Diploma Program
Teeswater, ON
Brendan’s Volunteer Activities at
Ridgetown College
Review President, Cabaret Co-chairperson, Men’s
Volleyball Team
A Leader Brendan Admires
Rob Black, Executive Director of the Ontario 4-H Council
Brendan’s Background
I live on a beef and swine farm and have one older brother
attending the main campus at Guelph and a younger sister
completing high school. I’m actively involved in my home
community and try to stay involved wherever I live.
My father is a principal and my mother is a supply teacher
and we all work at home on the farm.
Why Does Brendan Volunteer?
I volunteer to make a difference, because to make change
you have to start it. I think I would be bored if I did not
volunteer in some aspect. It uses up my free time and helps
me escape from doing homework. But mostly, I enjoy being
around people and working with them. Volunteering gives
me a sense of accomplishment helping others.
Brendan’s Favourite Thing About Ridgetown
My favourite thing about Ridgetown College is the small
size and friendly nature of the campus. Being at a smaller
College allows us to approach professors and ask questions
and solve problems that we have in our own lives.
Brendan’s Favourite Saying
Do what you love and love what you do!
What Does Brendan Want to be When He Grows Up Some More?
I would like to be an elementary school teacher and a
farmer, possibly owning an educational farm where urban
kids learn what farmers have to offer consumers.
Brendan’s Volunteer Goals
To make a difference, even if it’s small, stay active, help others
when they need it and see them flourish at what they do!
“I’m committed to making
sure that everyone is
involved. I always make
sure to invite, encourage
and personally welcome all
the different people. Being
a leader requires people to
step out of their comfort
zone, take risks, take
initiative and put
themselves out there for everyone else to see.”
JoAnne Martin
Senior, Veterinary Technology Diploma Program
Sudbury, ON
JoAnne’s Volunteer Activities at Ridgetown College
Student Council Vice-President, Senior VT Class President,
Food Committee Chairperson, Review Square Dancing
Lead, Head Coach, Ridgetown Bantam Girls Minor Hockey
JoAnne’s Background
I grew up moving all over northern Ontario and have enjoyed
the sport of hockey for 14 years. I started volunteering
when I was 8 years old, and can’t remember a time in my
life when I wasn’t involved with a volunteer program.
Why Does JoAnne Volunteer?
I volunteer to keep busy. I love waking up every morning
knowing that my day is accounted for; even if it doesn’t
all get done, I still have the feeling of accomplishment.
By volunteering with different programs and working with
all kinds of people, it helps broaden my thinking and helps
me not get stuck in my own little world.
JoAnne’s Favourite Thing About Ridgetown
There are lots of opportunities to get involved and the staff
and students are encouraging and loyal.
JoAnne’s Favourite Saying
To each their own.
(This reminds me that my way isn’t the only way.)
JoAnne’s Volunteer Goals
I hope to someday be managing a program for juvenile
delinquents and shelter dogs. Through this program I would
hope to teach patience and understanding to the youth.
“Leadership means taking
charge, sometimes when no
one else wants to. Leadership
means becoming a role model
for others, doing your best,
doing what’s right, and doing
what needs to get done.”
Jessica Vince
Senior, Horticulture Diploma Program
Chatham, ON
Jessica’s Volunteer Activities at Ridgetown College
Student Council Secretary/ Treasurer, Student Representive
for Ridgetown College on U of G Senate, Review Ball
Chairperson, Involved with Review Static Displays,
Cabaret, and Livestock Shows
A Leader Jessica Admires
Jesus...and I’m totally serious about it!
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[email protected]
Jessica’s Background
I am very active in my church. I also play the bagpipes with
Branch 28 Royal Canadian Legion Pipe and Drum Band.
Why Does Jessica Volunteer?
I volunteer because I want to make my small part of this
big planet a better place. Mostly, I volunteer because I have
benefitted so much from those who have helped me
develop through their volunteer efforts.
Jessica’s Favourite Thing About Ridgetown
I like being with my classmates and I like the atmosphere
on this campus. But my favourite thing has been seeing
Dr. Arend Smid ride his bicycle with a huge smile plastered
on his face and saying ‘hello’ to anyone he passes.
trade shows and talk to kids about the Ridgetown
experience. I’d also like to encourage junior students to
take on leadership roles that will prepare them to be
leaders in their senior year.
Any Other Comments for ROOTS Readers
Beyond the excellent learning that occurs in the classroom,
you learn a lot of ‘life-lessons’ here, without your parents.
It’s good to have the opportunity to make your own
decisions, both good ones and bad ones.
What Does Jessica Want to be When She Grows Up Some More?
I want to be a loving wife, Mom and volunteer.
“Leadership means putting
responsibilities into the hands
of those who can positively
affect others in their actions
and daily decisions.”
Jessica’s Volunteer Goals
I want to make someone happy, learn from others, and
become a better person.
Tina Green
Senior, Agriculture Diploma Program
Monkton, ON
Any Other Comments for ROOTS Readers
In my opinion, I think Ridgetown College is a rare place
with committed staff and an agricultural heritage and
agricultural future, unique in Canada and perhaps North
America. I have become a more resourceful person from
my time here and feel blessed to have had this opportunity.
“To me, leadership is getting
involved. It’s not the
leadership title that’s
important, it’s that you get
actively involved in what’s
going on and then
you are already a leader.”
David Jacob
Senior, Agriculture Diploma Program
Stratford, ON
David’s Volunteer Activities at Ridgetown College
Student Council President, Review Committee Member,
Volunteer Auctioneer for Review and United Way Pub
David’s Background
I grew up in a family of five and have always been involved
in my dad’s auction business. I started auctioneering myself
a couple years ago.
Why Does David Volunteer?
I get to learn new things when I volunteer and I can put
some of those new skills on my resume. I enjoy meeting
new people and they may be contacts that I’ll have for
years to come. In the past, I’ve made some really good
friends from volunteering.
David’s Favourite Thing About Ridgetown
At Ridgetown College, the instructors know us by name,
and we’re not a number. I’ve made good friends and it’s a
great place to learn.
Tina’s Volunteer Activities at Ridgetown College
Chairperson, Student Recreation Committee,
Yearbook Committee
A Leader Tina Admires
My parents are leaders that I admire. They have taught me
valuable lessons about life and how to stand on my own
two feet. Without them I would never be where I am today.
Tina’s Background
I grew up on a beef farm outside of Listowel where the farm
operation and sports activities were a big part of my life.
When our family moved to Monkton I got a job working on
a dairy farm and also worked at the Inland Co-op in
Mitchell in the summer months.
Why Does Tina Volunteer?
I volunteer because I find it very rewarding. You get the
chance to meet new people and make a difference in the
lives of others.
What Does Tina Want to be When She Grows Up Some More?
I would like to pursue a career in agriculture, in the seed
business. Someday, I would like to have my own dairy farm.
Tina’s Favourite Saying
When life gives you lemons...make lemonade!
Tina’s Volunteer Goals
My goal is to be there for others when they need a hand,
and to ensure all Westags have plenty of fun sports
activities and special events to enjoy.
Any Other Comments for ROOTS Readers
At Ridgetown College I have gotten the education that
I need to move on with my life and to help me fulfill my
life’s ambitions. I have made friendships that I know will
last a lifetime!
What Does David Want to be When He Grows Up Some More?
I think I’ll stick with this auctioneering idea but may work
in agribusiness as well.
David’s Volunteer Goals
I would really like to see current students get involved with
the recruitment of future Ridgetown College students and
would like to have students like myself work at agricultural
13
Mentoring Young Scientists
is a Win-Win for
Ridgetown Researchers
What’s it like to have three, four, five and maybe even 10
young scholars in tow as they work on their Masters
or Ph.D.s.? That’s what a number of the Ridgetown College
researchers are finding out as part of their role as
University of Guelph faculty. Actually, the Masters and
Ph.D. students are often the driving force behind some
of the work that is done at Ridgetown, and Ontario
agriculture is better off because of the program.
Soil fertility is the specialty of College Professor,
Dr. Ivan O’Halloran. Right now, he is supervising two
graduate students and looking for more. Because
O’Halloran has a particular interest in the high tech
tools available for farming including variable rate
technology, he has attracted students who are
interested in working with variable nitrogen trials,
spatial variability of soil properties, and how that
relates to yield and nutrient requirements.
“In-field testing of yield response to nitrogen is
one area where the work of several students has
contributed to the way farmers assess the fertilizer
requirements of their crops on a field by field basis,”
says O’Halloran. “An extension of this work is the
environmental impact that this nutrient application
has on greenhouse gas emissions and soil nitrogen
levels, as well as the agronomic impact on crop
quality,” he adds. Other students are evaluating
technologies such as remote sensing, where aerial
photographs using specialized cameras and filters are
used to identify spatial differences in soil properties,
crop growth, and stresses. Such tools may aid in the
identification of areas within a field to sample for
pest or soil management problems.
Students under O’Halloran’s tutelage are not always
driven to use high tech equipment to advance
agriculture. Before coming to Ridgetown, O’Halloran
was at McGill University and one international
student he supervised was from Indonesia. This
person chose to study placement of localized lime on
soybeans; soybeans are an important part of the diet
of many subsistence farmers, and it is a crop that
does not perform well in strongly acid soils. In many
parts of Indonesia, low soil pH limits production,
14
[email protected]
particularly in the more remote areas. “Studies
looking at conserving lime are irrelevant in Canada
because lime is so plentiful and relatively inexpensive
here,” says O’Halloran. “In Indonesia, however, liming
materials are scarce and relatively expensive.” This
Indonesian student looked at ways to improve soybean
yields while placing lime just in the row, thereby
cutting costs dramatically and improving production.
“I find work like this very rewarding,” says O’Halloran.
“You start with an interesting question, add some
good science plus some practical application, and
the end result is very beneficial,” he concludes.
O’Halloran has been on Ridgetown’s campus for seven
years and he regards supervising Masters and Ph.D.
students as an extremely rewarding part of his job.
“Distance from Guelph sometimes makes supervising
these students a challenge but I like splitting my
meetings up with these students; some of them are
here at Ridgetown and some are at the main campus.
Then I use the telephone and e-mail a lot,” he explains.
O’Halloran says an added benefit to this research is
having access to the University of Guelph’s satellite
campuses. “With the numerous sites here at
Ridgetown in the southwest, to Guelph in central
Ontario and to Kemptville in the east, it is easier to
establish research projects that encompass a range
of soil types and growing season conditions that are
more representative of the main agricultural areas
of the province,” he says.
Art Schaafsma is another researcher working with
graduate-level students. Schaafsma likes supervising
students because it keeps him fresh in his outlook
on bugs and diseases in crops. “Right now I have five
students working under me and that is just about
right. One year I had nine and that kept me hopping,”
he admits. Finding the students to do work in his
particular field is not an issue but rather securing
the funding to make sure the work can happen
is the challenge.
Schaafsma’s group this year includes two Ph.D. and
three Masters students, many doing their research
right on the Ridgetown College campus. In the winter
months, he commutes about once a week to meet
with students who are taking classes at Guelph.
Topics that his students have chosen include Black
Cutworm and how it responds to Bt corn in Ontario,
Barley Yellow Dwarf in wheat and how it is transferred
from old stubble to the new crop, a molecular marker
for Corn Rootworm to help identify new adaptive types,
biological controls for Soybean Aphids, and sprayer
application technology for fusarium control in wheat.
Scenes From Review 2005
Thanks to the hard work of many student
volunteers, Review 2005 was a great success.
The displays, livestock show, pet fair, cabaret,
plant sale and other events were well
organized and well attended.
Congratulations to everyone involved!
“This is more fun than work,” declares Schaafsma.
“It keeps me on my toes and on the front line with the
questions they ask. In fact, I really believe I learn more
from them than the other way around,” he states.
Working with students is not without some challenges
for this respected Ridgetown researcher. “Sometimes
supervising students can be stressful; their time lines
and mine are not always the same, but we manage,”
confides Schaafsma. He believes the benefits of
having graduate students at Ridgetown are immense.
“Ridgetown College is better off for this program and
I wish there was more of it going on here,” he says.
Visitors to the Veterinary Technology building were able to watch
Kyle Aikema, a junior Vet Tech student, assemble a dog skeleton.
Along with Schaasfsma and O’Halloran, Dr. Peter
Sikkema also supervises University of Guelph
students. In total, ten students are currently
working with Ridgetown College researchers.
“Called to Serve” Story Update
The student square dance demonstration was
a popular noon-hour event.
In the Fall 2004 issue of Roots, an article was
included about Ridgetown College grads that have
gone on to become ministers. Since then, Roots
has been notified of four other alumni who have
been ‘called to serve’.
Darwin Wismer, from the class of 1956, preaches part
time with the Community of Christ church.
Joanna Thibeault, a senior Horticulture diploma
student, demonstrated the safe way to climb a tree.
Tom Beecroft, a 1970 graduate, is a United Church
minister serving in Watford.
Martin Dawson (‘73) is also an ordained minister
with the United Church. He was in Newfoundland
for several years and is now back in Ontario, serving
a congregation in Arthur.
A 1974 alumnus, John DeBoer, is living in
Peterborough doing Mission work for the Pentecostal
Assemblies of Canada.
Three young visitors enjoyed all of the Review events, and
were especially impressed by this straw bale tractor.
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Westag Alumni Association Merchandise Order Form
Full Name: ___________________________________________________
Mailing Address: ______________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
Grad Year: ____________ Home Telephone: ______________________
Forward to:
Westag Alumni Association,
C/O Heather Heyboer,
Ridgetown College,
Main Street East,
Ridgetown, Ontario
N0P 2C0
Sign orders must
be received by
September 1, 2005**
all prices include
shipping & taxes
ITEM
GRAD YEAR
QUANTITY
COST
AMOUNT
WESTAG SIGN
**Orders by: September 1, 2005
Made of metal and are white with maroon lettering
2-Sided Rectangular Sign
5" x 18"
$30.00
1-Sided Square Sign
8" x 8"
$30.00
WESTAG SWEATSHIRT
Size:
$35.00
Maroon shirt with grey lettering, 90% preshrunk cotton,
10% polyester; sizes S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL
WESTAG LICENCE PLATE COVERS
$7.00
White with burgundy lettering
Please make cheques payable to: Westag Alumni Association
TOTAL
120 Main Street East
Ridgetown, ON N0P 2C0
40028856