Taylor Bedford

David Lenman, a local freelance writer known for his work in print, television and radio is an odd choice to talk about passion to a roomful of aspiring journalism students. In a presentation at Camosun College about his career as a writer, Lenman’s honest words about the not-so-lucrative career would make you wonder why you would ever want to get into the journalism industry in the first place. “Freelance writing is not a money industry,” He says.   This is a theme repeated throughout the entire presentation. “Run for the hills,” says Lennam. “Freelancing is that hard.” However, read between the lines, and you’ll understand why he’s been doing what he does for over 30 years – furthermore, why you should do it too. “I like going out and talking to people,” says Lenman. “I like asking questions and finding out a bunch of information that no one else has,” Lenman states, after expressing his dislike for the lengthy writing process.   “When you enter a room, look around...

Craig Wilson, a newswriter for CBS News, shares his journey from being a small-town Albertan reporter to becoming a writer for the largest news broadcaster in America. He speaks to my class of communications students, hoping for some insight into the career path of a journalist. Although his skill, drive, and persistence are obvious sources of Wilson’s success, he attributes accomplishments to luck, failure and simply acting on opportunity. “It’s the little moments that can change your life.” He is grateful in a way that is both touching and inspiring. He shares stories of his 30-year journey in the industry, including his first journalism experience working under the renowned broadcast professional, Andrew Bryce, whom ultimately fired him for his then, poor reporting ability. However, to him, these are the underlying moments that got him to where he is today.    “I had something to learn…and I learned,” says Wilson. “I didn’t fully appreciate that moment...

According to a Pew survey, 80% of people wouldn’t eat meat grown in a lab. However, it’s time to consider a cruelty-free, sustainable alternative. Lab-grown, in-vitro, cultured, or test tube meat—call it what you will—would involve growing muscle tissue from animal stem cells so that it can be prepared just like conventional meat. Not only is this a potential solution to the harmful impact on our environment, it may also be better for us. Although it may appear that veganism/vegetarianism is becoming more popular, there are few signs that meat production is decreasing. According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, meat demand will increase by an estimated 73% by 2050. Sustaining this demand requires mass amounts of resources, such as grain and water to feed livestock. The Water Footprint Network found that producing one pound of beef requires 1799 gallons of water, while one pound of pork requires 576 gallons. On top of that, livestock needs to live somewhe...