“I lived off-grid for 10 years, and for 3 of those years, I lived in a yurt.”
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK
As the October air blows through the rustling trees, the sense of nostalgia hits me. Autumn has always held a special place in my heart, with its cozy, timeless charm. October is a month when time starts to slow down, the sun says goodnight earlier in the day, and everyone starts napping. With October comes Halloween, one of my favorite celebrations of the year! Growing up, I always knew what my Halloween costume was months if not years in advance, scouring thrift stores and pouring creativity into DIY outfits. However, as I’ve gotten older, I feel like I’ve lost that spark…
Lately, I’ve found myself burdened by the weight of adulthood. As the editor-in-chief of this wonderful publication, I’ve felt compelled to wear my metaphorical “business suit”, striving for the utmost professionalism. My days are often consumed with writing emails, detailing schedules, and setting up meetings. I hate to say this to all of you, but I’ve been cosplaying as Mr. Business Boy for far too long. Truth be told, I’m simply a 21-year-old navigating life, just like many others in their twenties.
However, October couldn’t come at a better time! It’s a month when we are given the delightful opportunity to embrace our inner child’s spirit. Halloween is more than just a holiday; it’s a celebration of our imagination, a tribute to our capacity to dream and create, and a gentle reminder that, no matter how old we are, the child within us remains vibrant and alive. This October, let’s make a conscious effort to acknowledge and nurture that inner child’s spirit.
Even though Halloween is the perfect time to embrace your inner child, it’s essential to remember to reconnect with that part of your spirit throughout the year, regardless of whether or not it’s a socially acceptable time to wear a costume. Some of my favorite ways to do this include revisiting cherished childhood shows like “Little Bear” or wandering along nature trails, finding solace in lush forests. I wholeheartedly encourage you to explore what reconnecting with your inner child means to you!
So, dear readers, as October unfolds and Halloween draws near, let us acknowledge and celebrate our inner child’s spirit with open hearts and playful souls.
Hugs, Freya <3
COORDINATING EDITOR
Matt Shipley (he/him) matt@capilanocourier.com
“I’m getting my braces off this fall after eight long years—more than a third of my life”
NEWS EDITOR
Bridget Stringer Holden (she/her) bridget@capilanocourier.com
“I’ve given a speech in the Senate of Canada”
SPORTS EDITOR
Mya Fraser (she/her) sports@capilanocourier.com
“I’m really into athletics, but when I’m not competing or watching sports, I’m listening to Taylor Swift.”
FEATURES EDITOR
Gates Ogilvie (they/them) gates@capilanocourier.com
“I collect novelty teapots from thrift stores and have about 13 in my collection thus far.”
ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR
Gwen Pemberton (she/her) gwen@capilanocourier.com
COMMUNITIES EDITOR
Avery Nowicki (they/them) avery@capilanocourier.com
OPINIONS EDITOR
Jayde Atchison (she/her) jayde@capilanocourier.com
“I collect first-edition Stephen King novels.”
COLUMNS EDITOR
Sara Brinkac (she/they) sara@capilanocourier.com
ART DIRECTOR
Angelica Blanch (she/her) design@capilanocourier.com
“I went to school in three different countries! I love traveling and discovering new places”
VIDEO PRODUCTION MANAGER
Laura Morales Padilla (she/her) videoproduction@capilanocourier.com
“I can make a very convincing impression of a chicken (the secret is in the cheeks).”
VIDEO EDITOR
Ely Davidson (he/him) videoeditor@capilanocourier.com
CREW WRITER
Lea Krusemeyer (she/her)
“I learned English mainly from Books and TV Shows rather than school and therefore spoke in ‘slang’ for the longest time; for me, that seemed like perfect English, and it took me a while to adapt.”
CREW WRITER
Kirsten Wiltshire (she/her)
CREW ILLUSTRATOR
Chelle Lussi (she/they)
CREW ILLUSTRATOR
Andy Poystila (he/him)
“I grew up in the Gulf Islands!”
BUSINESS MANAGER
Terrance Alanis (he/him) business@capilanocourier.com
COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
Lucy Benson (she/her) communications@capilanocourier.com
Vansh Malhotra, Ana Martínez Lima, Mayumi Izumi, Jasmine Garcha, Mizuki Kinoshita, Yasmine Elsayed, Jasmin Linton, Eugenia Trevino De Coss.
Anaïs Bayle, Sol Yoon, Celina Zhong, Geraldine Yaris, Sophia Spanos McGill, Eva Staub, Yohahnah Loker, Alina Sandu, Jasmine Linton, Celia Palomar Robisco, JJ Eng, Siobhan Barry, Natasha Lee, Ethan Woronko, Tricia Tang.
Freya Emery, Christine Raganit, Jordan Richert, Lauren Howard.
Eva Staub
Email editor@capilanocourier.com for interested writers and illustrators. Illustrators are required to send a portfolio or samples of work.
@capilano.courier capilanocourier.com
NEWS EDITOR BRIDGET STRINGER-HOLDEN (SHE/HER)
ILLUSTRATOR LUCY BENSON (SHE/HER)
“I have worked with many other student unions throughout the province, and I can say balance and transparency with the staff and board of directors are why our student union is really one of the best,” said Karandeep Singh Sanghera, the president of the Capilano Students’ Union and an Associate of Science student.
As president, Sanghera works with the four vice presidents — Equity & Sustainability, External, Finance & Services, and Students Affairs — to ensure representation and advocacy in all areas. He is also the liaison between the elected board of directors and the CSU staff.
Going into his second year, he plans to continue previous transit, housing, and climate advocacy. One of his priorities is improving financial aid for both international and domestic students.
Sanghera is most proud of his work on food security, with initiatives such as a Community Cupboard and the creation of a page of food security resources. The CSU also raised the issue to the university last year, who will be working on food security as well.
On August 18, 2023, the CSU held a board meeting and passed their Annual Operating Plan. This outlines the priorities for the coming year, including enhancing the Food Resource Program in collaboration with Chartwells to ensure students have access to food.
On the internal side, Sanghera mentioned a focus on the University Affairs committee that meets once a month to describe what’s happening at the Senate and Board of Directors.
He also mentioned a focus on creating more programs that encompass existing courses. “The university has a lot of courses, but very [few] program choices,” Sanghera said, “I’m studying Associate of Science but if you see my course list, you will know I am majoring in physics. We don’t have a major in physics, but we can create one with existing courses.”
Sanghera encourages students to get involved in the CSU’s various roundtables, surveys and committees. He mentions there will be new benefits for volunteers soon.
“My one request for students who are reading this: please be specific and please try to be more [involved] because whatever [feedback] we are getting, we will be working on that.”
Follow the CSU on Instagram or visit to www.csu.bc.ca learn more about their advocacy and opportunities for involvement. Sanghera can be reached at ksanghera@ csu.bc.ca.
Students share their thoughts on the new childhood centre and on-campus housing
CONTRIBUTOR VANSH MALHOTRA (HE/HIM)
ILLUSTRATOR FREYA EMERY (SHE/HER)
CapU students wait in anticipation for the completion of two major projects: the new Centre for Childhood Education and the student housing development promised by 2024.
CapU has a diverse community of international students from all over the globe. On top of Vancouver’s infamous living expenses, CapU’s international tuition fees act as a prohibitive barrier to entry for prospective students. According to an article in the Vancouver Sun, as of April 2022, Vancouver was the third least affordable city in the world, after Hong Kong and Sydney.
Karandeep Singh Sanghera, an Associate of Science student and Capilano Students’ Union President, believes affordable housing is key in not only attracting more students, but in preserving their mental wellbeing as well.
The housing program at CapU has a vital connection with mental health,” Sanghera stressed, “I have seen students resorting to drugs or alcohol when they cannot cope with immense stress—most of them lose interest in academics and take part-time jobs to fund housing. I am eager for the housing program to be available soon, as I feel it can improve students’ lives by making housing more flexible and accessible.”
Sanghera’s statements emphasize the measures the university could take to reduce mental health problems among the student body. It makes a great effort to introduce fun activities for the students through organisations like the CSU and CapURec. He states that focusing on factors that trigger chronic problems for the students, like housing, would be a positive step forward.
Holden Sasaki, a creative writing major, considers both projects fantastic ideas. “I believe the childcare centre can help many people who need it, as its on-campus
location has the potential to relieve stress from parents and promise enrolled children a valuable learning experience,” Sasaki said. “I adore the student housing idea as it’s more affordable than renting off campus. I sincerely hope that the school can offer an alternative to the ridiculous external rent prices these days instead of hiking up prices because they can.”
Sasaki also believes that an on-campus residence will simplify things. “Unfortunately, the current CapU residence buildings are a 20-minute bus ride off the main campus,” Sasaki shared. “I believe this is not incredibly convenient as in traffic or emergencies the commuting time takes longer, so building housing oncampus would be better for the people residing there.”
This is only a taste of the challenges students must endure, despite CapU residences being only a short distance away. Academic pressure becomes complicated as the term leaps into midterms and final exams, making it difficult for students to manage schedules with volatile commuting times.
On-campus student housing has many advantages because learners can live where they study. This sixstorey, 8,250 square metre complex would include 362 beds of accommodation, a dining hall building, laundry facilities, student study areas, lounge space and a kitchen on each floor.
The Courier reached out to the university regarding when exactly these projects will be finished and what is blocking the path of the construction process. However, we could not find a contact to interview regarding these questions before this issue’s print deadline. Nevertheless, a recent Facebook post on September 6, 2023 informs us that work has been started on the new housing complex.
NEWS EDITOR BRIDGET STRINGER-HOLDEN (SHE/HER)
This fall, Natasha Mrkic-Subotic became the new acting dean of Global and Community Studies. The Faculty includes four schools: Tourism, Kinesiology, Public Administration and Outdoor Recreation Management.
Mrkic-Subotic went through the interview process to become Dean because she believes she can make a difference. It’s an acting dean position, which is only a one-year appointment. “It’s an opportunity to see what being a dean is like, and also an opportunity to see how I can contribute,” she said, adding how she’s excited about the new Squamish campus announcement and what it might mean for her department.
Previously, Mrkic-Subotic taught marketing, leadership and cross-cultural courses in the School of Business. She was the Enactus faculty advisor, and remains on the board of nonprofit organization CityStudio.
She is also involved in COIL (collaborative online international learning), where CapU faculty are connected with faculty from abroad to help implement projects for students.
“Less than three per cent of Canadian students travel [internationally],” shared Mrkic-Subotic, “but if you’re exposed to it in the classroom and you’re working on projects together in the classroom with students from another country, then you’re going to get that travel bug and want to go meet your friends.”
Work integrated learning is something that has been a priority for Mrkic-Subotic since she came to CapU. In the School of Business, she was a part of Entrepreneurship at CapU — a program that allowed students to access free workshops about entrepreneurial thinking, mentorship from entrepreneursin-resident, and dozens of paid work integrated learning job opportunities.
These types of opportunities are one of the reasons she loves working at CapU. “I love the students, and the culture is great because it’s a culture of innovation and applied learning,” she shared. “I came to Cap on a trial basis, but I really really liked it, and it’s been two years now and I’m definitely, completely CapU now.”
While she’s going through the adjustment period at her new role, Mrkic-Subotic said that the first couple days have been great — talking to students and meeting everyone in the department.
Her new office sits at the top of the “Fir grind” in FR 541, and she emphasizes that her door is always open.
“We’re here for students. If you have an idea for Squamish, I want to hear it. If you see me in the hallway, stop me. Come talk to me.”
CREW WRITER KIRSTEN WILTSHIRE (SHE/HER)
ILLUSTRATOR SOL YOON (SHE/HER)
A collection of modern buildings sits atop the highlands in Squamish, B.C. The buildings, the former Quest University campus, are delicately nestled in the temperate rainforest, surrounded by scenic coastal mountains. In August of 2023 Capilano University purchased the campus. The purchase, a total of $63.2 million, was partially funded by the Government of B.C., who made a $48 million contribution.
This is not the first time CapU has made Squamish (Sḵwxwú7mesh) home. In the early 2000s, CapU had a handful of business courses available in the district of Squamish. The university has been trying to find a home in Squamish for some time now. In March 2022 the university was in talks about a different location in the town but that didn’t work out. Luckily, or perhaps, rather welltimed, an already established campus appeared on the market. The purchase of this campus means CapU is finally setting down roots in the community.
multiple partners to design and offer programs that match the education and skills-training needs of the community and region”.
The university is planning to open for classes in Fall 2024, with registration in the spring prior. The first courses to come to Squamish will be early childhood education and literacy programming. From there, the university will expand into other programs such as the arts, business, and sciences.
Wilson Williams (Sxwíxwtn), spokesperson for Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw
told the CapU Communications team, “We are pleased to support the return of in-person learning to the District of Squamish. The new campus will provide opportunities for our youth in Squamish to seek post-secondary education close to home.”
The Sea-to-Sky corridor is home to School District 48, which includes Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton. This new campus will be an opportunity for local students to attend post-secondary in their own backyard, as the communities along the Sea-to-Sky area are growing at a faster rate than the average in B.C. CapU’s return to Squamish is in anticipation of a greater desire for post-secondary education opportunities closer to home that will be more accessible to those who desire to attend.
The campus covers 18 acres of land and comes equipped with learning areas, a library, a cafeteria, a sports field, two parking lots and athletics facilities. It is already designed with hands-on learning in mind, making it a smooth transition for CapU.
CapU president Paul Dangerfield said in a Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills press release, “We are grateful to the Province, the District of Squamish and the Squamish Nation for their support. We look forward to continuing to build a relationship with the community, the Squamish Nation and
As the university continues to build a relationship with the community, the program offerings will expand to reflect that. There are plans for outdoor recreation and programming in conjunction with the Squamish and Lilwat Nations. Williams shared, “We look forward to continuing discussions with Capilano University about how to best serve our members and how we can help Indigenize the university’s programs”.
In May of 2023 the Province of BC released their new $480 million education plan called StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan. One of their key goals for this plan is “making postsecondary education more affordable, accessible and relevant to British Columbians.”
With the location of this new CapU campus and a strong desire to develop the education programs with the Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw, Lil’wat Nation and settlers in the area alike, there is cause for hope and exciting opportunities to come.
The new campus will serve the Sea-to-Sky communities and open doors for classes in the fall of 2024
The Blues women’s volleyball team will start their season at home against Columbia Bible College on Friday, October 27 at 6 p.m. After not being satisfied with their win-loss record last year, the team is determined for the season ahead. With a new head coach, the team can expect a fresh perspective, new ideas, strategies, and tactics that can ultimately help the team find more success in the months to come.
John Swanson was hired in May of 2023 and brings lots of PACWEST experience with him. He previously led a women’s team to a provincial gold medal and got to attend the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) national championships. As a player himself, he attained two national silver medals at different schools. He was named a CCAA All-Canadian in 1988 and was the PACWEST tournament MVP in 1989.
Vanesa Gatto is a fifth-year student and plays as a libero or left side. She was her team’s MVP last year and has one final season ahead of her. She is one of two seniors on the team, the other being her twin sister Anika Gatto. In addition to their strong returning players, they have an outstanding roster of rookies coming in as well as a decorated transfer student; it’s a more promising season ahead.
When asked about the team’s goals for the season, Gatto asserted, “Seeing as we did not make provincials last year, a big goal of ours is to make that cut. Additionally, when we
do, we want to win a medal, if not win provincials.” On the state of the team, she expressed, “We want to build team cohesion as it is crucial for success. Building a strong, supportive team culture will help us reach our other goals as well.”
Their league consists of six teams: Capilano University, Camosun College, Columbia Bible College, College of the Rockies, Douglas College, and Vancouver Island University. Concluding the season, the top four teams will face off in the PACWEST championship tournament. The event will be hosted by the Douglas Royals February 23-24, 2024. The winner will head to Red Deer, Alberta for the CCAA nationals championship.
Gatto believes VIU or Camosun will be their biggest competitors due to their previous successes. However, she’s excited about the competition and to see how the teams have changed. On having Swanson as a new head coach for the season, Gatto says she’s excited to see how he pushes the team to new heights. “He is very skilled and knowledgeable. He is already emphasizing values such as work ethic, sportsmanship, and resilience, which can help reshape the team’s dynamic and identity.”
The schedule for the women’s volleyball team is on the Blues website. Also, be sure to follow their Instagram account @ capuwvb for updates. Don’t miss the chance to cheer on the team in our gym during their first game of the season. Let’s go Blues!
CREW WRITER KIRSTEN WILTSHIRE (SHE/HER) ILLUSTRATOR GERALDINE YARIS (SHE/HER)
Friday, October 27, the Blues men’s volleyball team will face off against Columbia Bible College in their season home opener. The game starts at 8 p.m. at the Centre for Sports and Wellness. Head coach Darrin Moreira returns with a season of coaching the Blues under his belt. He’s joined by assistant coaches Nadine Plett, Brian Hiebert, and Markiel Simpson.
The Blues play in the PACWEST BC division which includes Camosun College, Vancouver Island University, Douglas College, Columbia Bible College, and College of the Rockies. CapU will play 20 regular season games in the league.
The team is coming off of a challenging last season where they were beaten out by the Camosun Chargers, who went on to win the national championships. Last year’s team consisted of 17 players, 12 of which were rookies.
Cole Appleton, a libero returning for his second season, shared that “last year’s season was full of large learning moments… We had some amazing leaders that helped us along the way.” This season’s team is full of promising players determined to use their experience of last year to come back even stronger. “This team demands as much from the body as it does from the mind,” he added.
Last year’s team MVP, Stephen Searcy, an outside hitter, has moved on to the UBC Okanagan Heat, making room for a new player to step into his role. Owen Genge, a libero whose first season with the team resulted in a spot on the PACWEST AllRookie team is returning for another season with the Blues. Setter
Jonah Violini returns for a second season as do middle blockers Tate Wheatley, Jacob Leinemann, and Simon Russo. Isaiah Ohori is the team’s lone returning outside hitter. With a combination of returning players and new faces, Appleton is feeling optimistic. “We have lots of potential and an amazing group of guys,” he says.
Several players are making their debut on the team. Dario Pereira, hailing from Brazil, returns to the PACWEST league after a season with Vancouver Island University in 2019-2020, this time, he’s joining the Blues. Surely there will be some added stakes when it comes to playing VIU this season. Joining the team from his home country of Germany, Marco Kost has transferred to CapU from an NCAA program in Missouri. Lynden Infanti, Trevor Matthysen, Reese Nowotny, Nate Raabe, Yash Sohi, Oliver Westhaver, and Brendan Zebrynski all join the Blues for their rookie season.
The PACWEST BC championships will take place the weekend of February 23-24, 2024 hosted by Douglas College. The Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) National Championships will be hosted by Camosun College in Victoria, BC. The tournament will take place March 7-10, 2024. You can find the schedule for the men’s volleyball team on the Blue’s website. This season is sure to be exciting, so come support your fellow students by cheering them on!
SPORTS EDITOR
MYA FRASER (SHE/HER)
ILLUSTRATOR
CELINA ZHONG (SHE/HER)
Laura Wood is the Athletic Therapist for CapU’s varsity sports program. She has been a part of the Athletics and Recreation department for just over a year now, commencing in August of 2022. Laura’s general duties consist of injury assessments, rehabilitation, pre-practice taping, post-practice recoveries, admin work, and communicating with coaches, contractors, and practicum students. Additionally, she is to travel with all teams on game days to help prep the athletes and support them if any injuries occur in play.
Like many people, Laura grew up playing sports. Her time in physiotherapy dealing with different injuries sparked her interest in the human body. This, combined with her love for sports and working with people are what led her to pursue her career. As an athletic therapist, it would allow her to work in both field and clinical settings while still being a part of teams, aiding from the sidelines.
Laura completed her Bachelor of Kinesiology from the University of Calgary in 2016. She proceeded to obtain her Advanced Certificate in Athletic Therapy at Mount Royal University in 2019.
pulling them from play. She explained, “After an injury occurs, it’s my job to ensure they complete proper rehabilitation and only return when they are safe to do so, otherwise it could lead to further injury and potentially affect their career as an athlete.”
All jobs come with different challenges, and for her, it’s avoiding burnout. During the sports season, her days are long and her energy is constantly being used to help others. She has a passion for working with varsity athletes though. Her most recent highlight of the job was just last season, being on the bench with the women’s and men’s basketball teams at provincials when they won silver and gold.
When asked what she enjoys most about the job, she stated, “Getting to know the athletes I work with is by far my favorite part of the job. Working in a varsity setting, I find that I get to hear about the athlete’s lives – their aspirations, struggles, and everything in between. I feel lucky to be a part of these athletes’ lives even if it is in a small way.” She also mentioned being able to manage an injury
She gained experience there working with the women’s basketball team, and additionally with the University of Calgary’s women’s field hockey and ice hockey teams. Before starting at Cap, she worked on the field with Simon Fraser University’s football team and in their sports medicine clinic.
As a result of working with six teams in three different sports, she learned how the different physical demands of each sport can come with correlating injury trends. “For example, with soccer athletes, we tend to see more lower extremity injuries such as quadriceps or hamstring strains; whereas, with court sports like basketball and volleyball we tend to see a combination of lower and upper extremity injuries such as ankle sprains and shoulder strains,” she said, mentioning how working with multiple sports helps keep her skills sharp with the various injuries.
When asked about the most important part of her job, she stressed athlete safety and her responsibility to act in an athlete’s best interest, even if it means
from the very initial moment until the athlete is fully returned to their sport is a very rewarding experience.
The athletes here are very fortunate to have Laura looking out for them, supporting them, and keeping them safe. She makes her athletic room a safe space for all and we are grateful for the energy and care she provides for everyone. “This job can be hard work at times,” she noted, “but having the opportunity to work with athletes like the ones at Capilano University makes everything worth it! I’m looking forward to seeing what the season ahead has in store.”
“I find that I get to hear about the athlete’s lives – their aspirations, struggles, and everything in between.”
Knee ligaments play a crucial role in our bodies. In this area, we find two ligaments called the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the posterior cruciate ligament, forming an “X” inside your knee. Specifically, the ACL is the most commonly injured ligament in the knee for athletes. It is located below the kneecap and is the closest to the front of the knee.
The rupture or tearing of this ligament can occur for various reasons, and can even happen to non-athletes. From playing soccer with your friends to practicing gymnastics, being involved in a car accident or a fall, there is no specific way it can happen; it can happen to anyone. The ACL provides stability, connects the bones, and prevents our knee from bending or rotating too much. During training and sports practices, the body is pushed to its maximum potential, increasing the possibility of injury. That’s why strengthening the muscles for greater protection and stability of our joints and ligaments is of paramount importance.
Catrina Olstrom of the Capilano Blues women’s soccer team shares insight from her experience injuring this vital ligament, explaining how it happened and her journey through the recovery process of such a delicate procedure.
On June 5, 2022, Olstrom sustained an injury during a soccer match with Altitude FC, a semi-pro team here on the North Shore. During the game, she felt her leg become locked in the ground, and at that very moment, her opponent ran towards her, causing her leg to twist. Olstrom recounts that, upon impact, she heard a popping sound. That was the moment she realized that something was wrong. “I was crying and screaming immediately, but not because of the pain, but because I knew something bad had happened to my knee.” She could only imagine the worst.
Injuries of this nature are categorized into various grades, ranging from a minor tear to a complete ACL rupture. These gradations serve to identify the extent of the injury and dictate the appropriate treatment approach. Starting from grade 1, which represents the least severe, and culminating with grade 3, the most severe. Typically, the pain experienced when sustaining such an injury isn’t attributed to the ACL itself, but rather to the surrounding structures. In Olstrom’s case, she had partially torn her meniscus too, which was the source of her pain.
She was promptly transported to Royal Columbian Hospital, where she was placed on the surgical waiting list. The surgery ultimately
took place on September 21 of the same year. Following her ACL tear, Olstrom was required to rest for two full days before she could start walking again. After the surgery, it took her almost three weeks to bear weight on her leg, and approximately more than four weeks to walk without the assistance of crutches. The pace of the recovery process can vary from individual to individual, contingent upon the severity of the injury, but it often proves to be a slow and arduous journey for many.
For Olstrom, this injury has brought significant changes in her life, and she delineates her recovery process in two distinct phases: the physical and the mental. The mental struggle, by far, tends to be the most formidable, as it necessitates contending with one’s thoughts and emotions daily. “Being confined to your bed for one month while watching your friends and teammates play on TV is strenuous. Watching the sport you love and knowing you can’t play for at least another year is something I don’t want to go through again.”
Her coach, Dennis Kindel, remained a constant presence, endeavoring to ensure she still felt like an integral part of the team. Olstrom took charge of the team’s social media accounts. This evoked a mixture of emotions—sadness stemming from her inability to be physically present and witness everyone’s joy in the photos as they engaged in the sport she loves. However, it also served as a source of motivation, propelling her to invest her utmost effort to regain her place on the field.
This season, Olstrom has returned to the team with renewed vigor, cherishing every moment she has been through, while also being stronger and more attuned to her body and how to properly care for it.
Her journey demonstrates the intricate process of recovering from an injury for over a year. Injuries will invariably intersect with our lives; although we may be unable to avert many of them, we can certainly take preventative measures and remain ever-prepared for any eventuality. Now that Olstrom’s back playing, she shouts out her team. “Physically being with my teammates in some sort of capacity was the most beneficial thing for me for my recovery process. I had the motivation to heal completely and be able to play my sport again.”
WHAT TO DO AND WHAT NOT TO DO WHEN FEELING SICK
CREW WRITER LEA KRUSEMEYER (SHE/HER)
ILLUSTRATOR EVA STAUB (SHE/HER)
Imagine you wake up one morning with a sore throat and a slight headache. You are alone in your apartment and trying to figure out if it’s a cold, the flu, exhaustion, or maybe even COVID. Who do you turn to first?
Most of us would probably say Google. There are rarely any questions that the World Wide Web cannot answer, and for our generation Google especially has become an everyday part of life. Using the internet to determine your sickness might seem like a wise choice but it carries dangers with it that might not be obvious at first. The issue with relying on Google for your health advice lies in the fact that the internet will give you standardized answers, a warm forehead means a fever, and Google does not know that you might have just walked up 10 levels to get to your apartment.
So, what should you do when you wake up with the feeling of sickness but do not have parents or a doctor nearby to give you advice? This guide is designed to help you make informed decisions about your health while avoiding the common trap of relying solely on Google for health advice. We’ll explore safe and trustworthy resources for both on-campus and off-campus opportunities.
First of all, you should still turn to the internet to find the closest doctor’s office, the address of the nearest Emergency Room, or information about your health insurance. Google is a tool that can help make things easier but it should never be used as a diagnosis. Doctors have studied for 10 years or more to be able to give you a qualified answer. Rely on them instead of an algorithm.
For students of Capilano University, there are numerous resources available. There is a dental office on campus and your health insurance will help to cover the cost. Google is free but you access it through a phone or computer you paid for, look at your health insurance the same way. By paying your Capilano University fees, you pay for your insurance, so make use of it.
Now let us get into the specifics of what CapU has to offer for its students on campus.
Dental issues can be resolved in Birch 249 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the treatment is included in your Health and Dental Plan (appointments are needed and can be made by calling (604) 984-4964).
First Aid can be accessed in Arbutus 016 at all times of the day, year-round.
Mental Health counseling is available to all students via CapU counselling, either in person or online, and appointments can be booked by calling (604) 984-1744.
These are the resources you can access that are offered explicitly by Capilano University but that is not where it ends. CapU uses StudentCare, to offer even more services to its students. Students are automatically enrolled in this insurance with their tuition but can
choose to opt-out at any time. Opting out is not recommended by CapU unless students are covered elsewhere, because this insurance covers services, so you don’t have to pay out of pocket for visits to the doctor’s office or an emergency room.
Now let us see what StudentCare covers:
Vaccinations and prescription drugs
Visits to the emergency room
Visits to health practitioners such as physicians, chiropractors and more
Costs related to vision, such as eye exams and glasses
Travel insurance
A visit to the emergency room without insurance can cost thousands of dollars, and eye exams are also a costly expense in Canada. This insurance gives you access to a multitude of resources so when you wake up in the morning feeling sick and trying to figure out what is going on, opt to Google your nearest doctor’s office and make an appointment, instead of heading to WebMD. Rely on the experts because it will not break the bank.
If for any reason you refuse to visit a doctor’s office and insist on using Google as your tool of diagnosis, there are a few websites that are fact-checked frequently and at least offer you accurate advice to the highest extent possible without an examination by a doctor.
Those websites are:
The website of the World Health Organisation (WHO)
The website of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Again, you should get your symptoms checked out in person if possible, but at least on those websites you will find answers as to what illnesses might be going around and they might help to bring a little bit of peace of mind.
The next time you feel sick, try to remember those tips and tricks given here before you start picking out flowers for your funeral. Try to stay calm and double-check with a qualified healthcare professional. University life is a thrilling adventure, but your health should always be a priority. Avoid the Google Health Trap by leveraging on-campus and off-campus resources, seeking professional advice, and using online information responsibly. By doing so, you’ll be equipped to make informed decisions and enjoy a safe and healthy university experience.
On August 20, 2023 at 11:20 p.m., Buddha’s 109 East Hastings (formerly Smilin’ Buddha’s Cabaret) was the target of arson. Caught too close to a nearby dumpster fire, the building suffered brutal damages, puncturing a hole not only in Vancouver’s emerging music scene, but in the legacy of an iconic East Vancouver landmark.
Buddha’s Cabaret operated from 2019 to 2023 as a local music venue, highlighting emerging bands, and hosting art shows frequented by sub-groups of Vancouver youth. Though before this short portion of its history, Buddha’s had a complex past, dating back to 1952.
Originally, the venue operated as Buddha Dine and Dance, before gaining its infamous neon sign and reincarnating as Smilin’ Buddha’s Cabaret from
the 1960s to the 1980s. The venue then became a sports bar in the 1990s, and a restaurant until 2019. Though, most young people of Vancouver who follow local bands, unanimously recognize it as Buddha’s 109—the venue known for midnight shows of young lead singers floating through crowds on ripped off doors, and singing in the faces of the large gatherings of young people you could find at every show.
Buddha’s not only created a space for these new bands, it also created their micro-infamy. For someone new to the show circuit, there was an unexplainable feeling of thrill that followed you through each and every show, particularly at Buddha’s. In its most recent state, Buddha’s was recognizable only by the small ‘109’ lettering above its all black door, leading you into a dark
venue with growls of inaudible vocals blaring through the amps. A big dog or two roamed around your feet as you entered, and a group of 20-year-olds sat ready to take your money for a door fee. The venue held assortments of young artists mingling around booths of homemade earrings, or the first shows for bands who were unknown to anyone else, but ‘the next big thing’ according to 1,000 18-year-olds.
Though now, with the venue having already been closed for DIY renovations before this act of arson, and the exacerbated damages from the fire, it seems the Buddha’s we know, may not resurge, leaving bands to scramble for replacement venues.
As of September 20, 2023, Buddha’s has received 86 donations, amassing a total of $4,750 out of their $20,000 goal. James Andrew, the venue’s current
operator shared, “The damage is a huge setback and will require the property to be extensively restored and redeveloped instead of the DIY renovations we have been working on over the past six months, and over the past two years.” His immediate priority, he shared via GoFundMe, is to “secure the building from further damage and take immediate action for the space’s future.”
The venue has hosted artists like Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, Tina Turner and Capilano University’s own Felicia and the Jazz Rejects. To support the renovations by James and his team, visit https:// www.gofundme.com/f/p4y77-help-smilinbuddha-recover-from-fire to donate.
Do you have the CapU Spirit?!
CONTRIBUTOR
ILLUSTRATOR YOHAHNAH LOKER (SHE/HER)
October is a month of beautifully coloured leaves, sweater weather, pumpkin spice lattes and Halloween. For students new to Canada, Halloween is celebrated on October 31 of every year. It is referred to as a holiday, but it is not a statutory holiday; everyone must still attend school and work. Halloween is a day where children dress up in costumes and go trick-or-treating. They knock on neighbours’ doors and say, “trick-ortreat” and receive candy (...or raisins if they are not so lucky). Adults also dress up in costumes and go to Halloween parties or night clubs.
Halloween originated from the Celtic festival of Samhain at the end of summer and beginning of harvest to keep away evil spirits.
Every October, CapU Student Life hosts a haunted house and a costume and photo contest. I spoke to Shanon Liu, one of their staff, and they are in the process of planning the events as we speak.
The CapU community will commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on October 2, 2023 as this year September 30 falls on a Saturday and the university will be closed. The event will take place to honour the Indigenous Peoples who lost their homes, land and children in residential schools. On October 17 from 11:00 am to 3:30 pm, CapU Indigenous will be hosting an Elders Celebration and Ceremony at the BlueShore Theatre.
CapU boasts a month full of activities and events beginning with the CSU elections:
CSU Voting Period begins Tuesday, October 3, 9am – 9am
CSU Voting Period ends Thursday, October 5, 5pm –5pm
The BlueShore Theatre has interesting productions beginning such as:
The Birds & the Bees October 04, 2023 7:30 p.m –9:30 pm
And CapU Rec has a month full of amazing classes some of which are:
Pilates Fusion October 3, 11:35 am - 12:05 pm and Stretch Fusion 12:05 pm to 12:20 pm BR 210
Hatha Yoga Move More Edition, October 4 11:35 - 12:20 pm LB 322
Relaxation Studio, October 11, 12:30 - 1:15 pm, BR 210
Heels Dance October 16, 11:45 am to 12:30 am LB 322 offered every Monday of the month
Laughing Yoga October 16, 1:00 - 1:45 pm BR 210 offered every Monday of the month
For those of you who are international students and new to this country, our Thanksgiving is celebrated one month before the American one. This year, Thanksgiving is on Monday, October 9th which means CapU will be closed. The tradition is marked with a grateful heart, lots of turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, brussel sprouts, yams, sweet potatoes or squash, cranberry sauce and tons of stuffing. If you attend a Thanksgiving dinner, your host will probably ask you what you are grateful for. This year, I am grateful that the Tomahawk Restaurant in North Vancouver will be accepting orders for Thanksgiving dinners soon. Although my mom and I have made turkey and all the fixings together in the past, for a family of two, it is too much food and work to make it ourselves. We have previously ordered from Andrew’s on Eighth Coffee and last year from Save-On-Foods.
International and domestic students living at the dorms will be happy to know that I asked my friend and former RA, Quang Nguyen and he informed me that the RAs are planning a Halloween party. The date is TBA.
September 30, 2023 marks the third National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada, an adaptation of Orange Shirt Day which first began in 2013. The stat holiday was created to raise further awareness and educate Canadians about Canada’s residential school system, the long lasting impacts, and the continued injustice facing Indigenous people in Canada.
To commemorate the day, a variety of events and resources are available. Listed below are local events for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members to get involved in Truth and Reconciliation Day. To engage with Indigenous history and advocate for continued injustice after September, we encourage you to read the resources listed below, and work within the community to support Indigenous rights and advocacy.
The Museum of North Vancouver (MONOVA) will host an event to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. They are dedicating an entire day to learn about Indigenous issues through hands-on activities intended for reflection and necessary dialogue for guests of all ages. The event will be held at MONOVA from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. on September 30. Admission by donation. https://www. facebook.com/events/1990546727964492/
Also on September 30, Indigenous artists Miriam Berndt and Grace Ulu will be hosting an event dedicated to rethinking reconciliation. The event will be hosted at the Griffin Art Projects, in North Vancouver, B.C. In a synopsis of the event, the center shared the following words,
“listening to feedback from past Indigenous presenters, we have pre-recorded this talk to lessen the emotional labor leading up to and during ‘National Day of Truth and Reconciliation’. We are grateful for their time and generosity and we hope you can join us to listen and learn from Miriam and Grace.” Both the pre-recorded talk, and the information about its live counterpart may be found in the link below.
https://culturedays.ca/en/events/4204eeeb-ab53-47fe-94409e8882804ef7
On November 2, Creekside Community Recreation Centre will host the 9th Symposium on Reconciliation and Redress in the Arts. The purpose of this event is to unite Coast Salish cultural leaders to provide lessons, and training opportunities. This year will showcase over five knowledgeable speakers, and will take place at Creekside Community Recreation Centre, 1 Athletes Way from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
As well as attending events, community members can support Indigenous owned businesses. Mr. Bannock (433 West 1st Street, North Vancouver), Salmon n’ Bannock Bistro (7-1128 West Broadway), Sḵwálwen Botanicals, and Spirit Bear Coffee Company are all great businesses to support, not only for Truth and Reconciliation day, but throughout the year.
For those looking to support Indigenous authors, and educate themselves on Indigenous led issues on Turtle Island, these are non-fiction books we recommend:
by Bob Joseph.
By Patty Krawec
In closing, remember to dedicate not only Truth and Reconciliation Day, but each day forward, to progressive change for Indigenous rights. It is our responsibility as members of this community to educate ourselves on the land we live on. We urge you to be a member of active change. Do more than acknowledge that this land is stolen, and advocate for how you as an individual aim to aid in rectifying continued injustice. It is our job to listen, and enact necessary change.
By Jody Wilson-Raybould.
CONTRIBUTOR
JASMINE GARCHA (SHE/THEY)
ILLUSTRATOR
CELIA PALOMAR ROBISCO (SHE/HER)
The true cost of a dingy basement in Vancouver…
‘Twas the nightmare before Christmas, and all through the hostel… Not a creature was stirring, not even a narwhal. A man returned from work, looked to his bed, and his mood sunk… For there were a couple of strangers balls-deep on the top bunk!
Renting a living space can be a difficult process. From finding a place and trying to get accepted, to moving in and making an expensive moldy suite your own happy little home. Especially in Vancouver, where everything costs an eyeball and a half, and everyone is fighting for a place to live where they won’t have to cut their legs off to fit in the kitchen.
Kyle Wilfert, 24, has been renting in Vancouver for four years. Before that, he stayed in a hostel in New Zealand where he exchanged labour for a place to live for about a year. This is where the aforementioned sex story occurred. Wilfert said he was planning a hike over the next few days to spend his first Christmas away from home on a mountain. However, because of a certain couple of loud occupants, he wasn’t able to rest up enough to go. Wilfert expressed his regret over not being more confrontational in that situation, saying, “I think it’s just the act of confronting two drunk people that are having sex that’s the most uncomfortable thing.”
Divya, a current Capilano Communication Studies student who wishes to be referred to only by her first name, says the same. She stayed on campus residence during her first year and told her roommate that she’s very introverted; if her headphones are on and she’s reading a book, she doesn’t want to interact. However, her roommate may have forgotten this, because Divya became increasingly frustrated by their tendency to talk during her preferred quiet time. This led to Divya becoming quite passive-aggressive toward them over time. She says that looking back, had she reinforced her boundaries, the two of them might have been able to avoid the negative turn their friendship took over that period of time.
Other than the roommate incident, Divya says that living on campus residence is a positive experience for her. She moved back to residence after taking a year-long break. However, she says that living with limited utilities and sharing the ones she has with 27 other people is a bit tough. Her social anxiety has played a big part in her experiences in residence. Especially having moved from her parents’ house on the other side of the world to a dorm with so many roommates and no family around to guide her through adulthood. Everything she does is observable by 300 outsiders. In residence, you have to go to an entirely different building to eat, which is a big change from having everything at arm’s length, and chances are, you will encounter multiple people you know there, too.
Divya says the toughest part of her renting experience outside of campus residence is communicating with landlords because they won’t always reply and competition is high between potential tenants. While she was a minor without a credit card, a landlord told her that he denied her application because of the lack of a credit score despite her offering to provide income statements. This occurred so close to
the school year that she feared having to stay at a hotel. She says that when it comes to looking for a place to stay you should start looking early and be prepared to provide a credit score, income statements, references, and a deposit. In terms of checking the place out, Divya says, “If the landlord tells you to come meet at 6 a.m. in a basement, please don’t. Please don’t do that.”
Wilfert advises to make sure the landlord is registered. As a tenant, you have rights. If your landlord is not registered, it makes it easier for them to violate your tenant rights. B.C.’s tenancy laws require your landlord to prepare a written agreement that protects both the tenant and the landlord. The Residential Tenancy Act is free to access on the B.C. Residential Tenancies website.
On top of this, he recommends figuring out certain details like what kind of heating the place has, how old the building is, and when different appliances have been replaced. It’s easy to look past these things because you might just want to find a place to live in the first place, but he says it’s good to keep that information in mind.
Although never truly having had a negative experience with a landlord, Wilfert has had several negative experiences with roommates. At his last house, one of his roommates came home with a coworker. This wouldn’t have been a big deal had the coworker left in the morning… Or ever. She stayed until they decided to end their lease. She did not pay rent, do chores, or really do anything at all other than make a mess. This is one of the situations in which Wilfert wishes he had confronted his roommate and found resolution. In case you were wondering, the couple broke up this past summer.
When it comes to roommates, Wilfert and Divya offered differing opinions. Divya believes that living with someone you’re really good friends with can either risk your friendship or your boundaries because you don’t want to upset a good friend of yours. She believes that you should live with someone you’re only okay friends with. Wilfert, on the other hand, believes that living with a good friend makes it easier to know each other’s boundaries and call each other out if the boundaries get crossed; living with someone you’re only okay friends with would make confrontation harder because you wouldn’t know them well enough.
While opinions on roommates and sex in hostels may be subjective, the takeaway is this: Make sure your landlord has their papers in order. Make sure you have your application items (income statements, references, etc.) ready. Be safe when checking out the living space. Finally, learn your rights, advocate for yourself, and file a case with the Residential Tenancy Board if your issue isn’t addressed. At the very least, work on your communication skills so that you don’t end up moving out because your roommate invited in a freeloader.
Many years ago, I found myself at a fortune teller’s table during a Convention Centre exhibition. It was long enough ago that she used a cassette tape to record her reading for me. For those of you who have never used one, tapes were used before CDs to record interviews or music off the radio.
The psychic told me that I was a monk in a previous life and that I had special powers. I could manifest anything that I wanted just by thinking about it. Apparently, I lived several times and I had more male lives than female in my previous incarnations. This rings true to me as I receive most things that I desire — such as being hired at the CapU Bookstore.
I had another experience with one of my mom’s friends who reads palms. She told me that I need to be careful when driving. She warned me when I was in my early 20s not to drive too fast because I may get involved in a big car accident. Two
years ago, another car smashed into my Volkswagen Tiguan at a high speed. There was $10,000 worth of damage to it. ICBC deemed it a total loss.
My third experience was a tarot reading done by my friend and CapU alumna, Emily Ewing. She instructed me to choose three cards which represented my past, present and future. I selected the Three of Swords card for my past, which means that I have suffered some loss or deep sorrow. This is true. I lost one of my grandfathers at the age of six and although my parents were still married, my dad moved to Los Angeles when I was five.
I still clearly remember the day he left — he was holding a suitcase in each hand and I walked with him down a short flight of stairs to the elevator. He stepped inside it. I told him to come home soon. It was heartbreaking to watch the doors
close in front of him. My dad and I were very close before he left. He was my primary caregiver while my mom worked during the day.
The second tarot card that I flipped was the Two of Coins which represented my present. There are two parts of my life that I am trying to balance, but having difficulties. This is also true. I am working hard, but no matter how hard I work, my debt is a burden I cannot get rid of.
The last card I selected was the Nine of Wands which revealed my future. Emily told me that I am still recovering from the hurt of past relationships and this is a deterrent for beginning a new relationship. I may feel like I will never meet Mr. Right, but he will come to me soon.
This also applies to me. I have had several relationships and been attracted to men that are emotionally unavailable. Initially they chased after me, but once I became smitten by them and their charms, they distanced themselves. My love life has been this endless loop.
The Nine of Swords also represents a battle that is almost done. But I am determined to keep going. This also resonates with me. I have overcome a lot of challenges in my life and have battled with inner demons. Emily gave me the tarot reading two years ago when this may have been applicable, but now I feel like I won the battle with myself. I am at peace and full of joy.
My fourth experience was with a clairvoyant practitioner. He asked me one day during my appointment, “You know that you have been your mother’s mother in a past life, don’t you?” Indeed, I did, but I never told anyone. I just knew. I had a strong feeling when I would interact with her that I was her mom before. I knew this without knowing how I knew it.
During a different appointment, he told me that I would become a good public speaker. This is accurate. I enjoyed public speaking before majoring in Communications at CapU, but I honed my skills during the four terms that I served on CSU’s Board of Directors as the Mature and Parent Students Liaison. I am now serving my fifth term on the CSU Board and my first as one as the Student Representatives of the Board of Governors.
I believe that we all have free will, but the most important events in our lives are predetermined. I did not become a good public speaker because the clairvoyant told me I would be one. It was already a part of my destiny, but the clairvoyant had the ability to ‘see’ my future skill. My mom’s friend did not cause my car accident, it was a major event that was already set to occur. I believe this destiny to be the ‘inner voice’ that directs us at all times. Our ‘intuition.’ If we listen to it, it will become stronger and more reliable.
Ultimately, I did not need to see a psychic to tell me which way my life would take me. My intuition will take me through my life according to how I want to live it. However, it can be nice to have a hint of what’s to come before it actually happens.
Meet the group that investigates what goes bump in the night
FEATURES EDITOR GATES ANNAI (THEY/THEM)
ILLUSTRATOR ALINA SANDU (SHE/HER)
It was a crisp October night in 2021 when Marlene Whittle and two other members of the Coldspotters paranormal investigative team ventured into the infamous Overlynn Mansion. The group carried in cameras fitted with night vision lenses, voice recorders, spirit boxes and rem-pods, looking for any indication they were among visitors from the other side.
The mansion itself is an artifact of 1909, barely visible from McGill St. behind a thicket of trees and shrubs. Though well preserved on the inside, the exterior of the mansion wears its age, made up of a granite rubble base and half-timbered walls. It spans nearly half the block, though if it weren’t for the popularity it earned as a filming location, most might walk right past it without an idea of what occurs inside. However, according to some, it is Burnaby’s most haunted location.
Whittle, a soft-spoken investigator in her forties who sports a black lace skirt and dark mascara, carries a rem-pod to set in the long dark corridors. The device looks like a large, black cylinder, with five lights across the top and a retractable antenna. Once planted, it emits EMF, or electromagnetic field energy, and detects if anything physical or paranormal crosses its path, lighting up and letting off a loud whining ring that increases in intensity the closer the disturbance is. In theory, this could be used as a way for ghosts to answer questions, set off the device for yes, stay quiet for no.
As Whittle approaches the corner, she catches something in her periphery. A shadow of two legs, as though someone were standing next to her.
“Oh, I thought you were outside, Calvin,” she says nonchalantly, turning towards her friend. As she turns, the shadow… disappears. Whittle, now finding herself alone, travels back to the entrance, where the real Calvin is standing outside.
The Calvin in question is Calvin Price, a mid-50s warehouse manager by day, though by weekend he is the boisterous yet humble founder and leader of local paranormal group, the Coldspotters. A Vancouver local, Price has been lurking around graveyards and local haunts since 1988, when the Coldspotters name first came into being. The formations of the group were modest—made up of two friends just graduating highschool, both inspired by the 1984 classic film, Ghostbusters.
“Some of our other friends just thought we were freaks,” Price adds with a laugh. “I think the one thing I’d want people to know is we’re just normal people.”
The Coldspotters as we know them today didn’t come into being until 2012, almost 25 years later, when Price was searching for a community to revisit his paranormal interests. This community mainly existed within the Vancouver Paranormal Society (VPS), though events were few and far between. He met up with another
member of VPS and the pair decided to start their own group, reviving the long-dormant Coldspotters name.
The group began with ambitious goals. They would investigate clients’ homes completely free, travel Canada and into the U.S. on group road trips, and organize frequent events with the paranormal community all year round. Two weeks after they began the Facebook community page, they got their first follower. Since then, the Coldspotters Facebook has amassed over 400 followers, and their numbers continue to grow. Now they have five permanent investigators handling investigations about twice a month, which the group claims is just enough demand to keep up with, alongside planning the events and trips.
“It’s a great little community to be in,” says Joanna Rosselli, Price’s wife and partner in investigations. The Coldspotters brought Rosselli and Price together, alongside the rest of the group, “You become a family,” Rosselli adds.
“We’ve all been through marriages, divorces, [and] death. We’ve all been there to help each other get through life,” says Whittle.
Price, laughing as he says it, also adds, “It’s perfection with a layer of dysfunctionality, which makes it crazy, and it’s fun.”
As for clients, that’s where the Coldspotters do their most meaningful work. The group encourages anyone who is experiencing paranormal activity to reach out to them. First, they hold a pre-interview with the client to garner information about what exactly is going on in the location. Bumps in the night? Objects moving on their own? Even the sound of footsteps might be reported as evidence of a possible haunting. After that, they give detailed instructions on how to limit noise and interference with their equipment. Things like dogs, children, or neighbours shouldn’t be present during the investigation, and microwaves should be unplugged to limit ambient electromagnetic (EMF) interference.
Then, the investigation starts. The Coldspotters will bring in their equipment, stuff like K2 EMF readers, which glow red when they detect high levels of EMF activity, and regular voice recorders to perform a baseline reading of the location. This allows them to understand what sort of noise or reading is unusual in a location. The investigation itself looks like the Coldspotters sitting together in the dark for hours on end, calling out normal noises in the moment so unexplained ones that come up in recordings afterwards can be noted and filed away as a ‘file of interest’.
When a client calls the Coldspotters it’s typically after a loss in the family. “Normally when you live in a house that’s anywhere from 30 to 40 years old it’s going to make noise,” Price says. “After you’ve lived there for a while you don’t
hear them. Then a family member dies, suddenly you’re hearing all these noises. I think people can be a little disappointed.”
When dealing with these clients, the Coldspotters recognize that grief is a heavy topic to navigate. “We also try to be compassionate because we understand that they’ve lost someone and they’re looking for that validation, so we’ll talk about other ways they can validate [their loved one],” Whittle adds.
The Coldspotters leave the interpretation of what they find up to the homeowners. In this way, the next steps they take are personalized to the client. Clients may request their space to be smudged, which is a process of burning sage to cleanse a space of negative energy. Otherwise, they ask the Coldspotters for help reaching spirit mediums or psychics to allow them to interact with the afterlife. This is where the community connections the Coldspotters have made come in handy.
It is their policy as a group to remain professional and respectful when inside a client’s house, but the Coldspotters get to let loose and have some old-fashioned paranormal fun when investigating historical buildings and public locations around Vancouver, such as Overlynn Mansion. Even after seven years of investigating the mansion, there is still one piece of evidence they’re looking to nab. “The one apparition that we’ve been waiting to see and meet,” Price
says, “is the little girl in Overlynn.”
According to history dug up by Coldspotters historians, the mansion was originally owned by the Peters family, who lost both the mother and young daughter to the Spanish Flu. Decades later, and long after the mansion was emptied out, a housekeeper hired by the building’s owners was vacuuming by herself in the parlour. According to the tale, the woman watched a little girl of about seven or eight walk out of the wall right in front of her, cross the floor, and disappear through the other wall. The housekeeper fled and has never gone back in since.
While Price has, on multiple occasions, stayed alone overnight trying to catch even a glimpse of the girl, she remains unfortunately elusive. The one place they are unwilling to even check, however, is the Overlynn Mansion basement,
“There’s a lot of spiders,” winces Price.
For many, the most anticipated time of the year has arrived. Horror movies, hot chocolate, candy, the sound of rain in the background while lying on the couch with your favorite blanket, and of course, Halloween.
One of the most exciting prospects is definitely the costume parties, or just dressing up as your favorite character and going out trick-or-treating. But here’s the biggest question of all: what do you wear?
A wide variety of styles and preferences emerge when it comes to choosing a costume. Inspiration can come from cartoons,TV series, books or other scary ideas. Often, people prefer to use clothes they already have in their closet. Others may not mind investing a little (or a lot) in their costume. Here is some inspiration for solo or group costumes, and ways to add the final touches for an incredible day or night, however you choose to celebrate it.
Each year, some of the most popular costumes come from new movies and TV shows. Knowing that, there are some common costumes that will likely turn up a few times this year. Two popular movies of 2023 were The Little Mermaid and Barbie, so expect different versions of costumes for
these characters. If Barbie or Ken are options that catch your eye for costumes, this is the perfect time to rock it. It might also be one of the easiest to achieve on a low budget, maybe without even spending a cent.
One of the characteristics of the Barbie movie is that everything (or almost everything) is pink, the different shades do not matter. Every detail contributes to the maximalist style that makes these outfits different and unique, from sequins, to a boa, to your flashiest handbag or fanny pack (preferably with a Kenergy monogram). Upgrade your outfit with some sunglasses, heels, or a scarf. If you don’t find enough pink clothing in your closet, you can always ask to borrow something from your friends or family. You’ll probably find what you need in other closets to become a part of the Barbie world.
An easy costume that fits the spooky season this year is Wednesday Addams, as well as the other members of the Addams family. With a black dress and a white collared shirt underneath, you have already practically completed the costume, just add braided hair to finalize the look. This character can be worn as a couple or with friends, each dressing as a member of the Addams family, such as her
Halloween costumes can be tricky, but we’re here to help make them a treat
CONTRIBUTOR ANA X. MARTÍNEZ LIMA (SHE/HER) CREW ILLUSTRATOR CHELLE LUSSI (SHE/THEY)
parents, Gomez and Morticia Addams, her brother Pugsley, or her uncle Fester. This option is simple, quick, suitable for groups, and has a touch of horror that suits the occasion.
Another idea that will make you a costume all-star is the movie Shrek. The franchise is full of different characters and options. It is simple, fun, and inclusive. Shrek could even be the theme of its own costume party. For this theme, you can draw inspiration from many fun and easy characters like Donkey, Dragon, and of course, Shrek and Fiona.
If you don’t mind, you can buy some green paint to paint your face and look for a DIY on Pinterest to make your own Shrek ears. For Donkey, you can wear some gray clothes and find an easy way to make the ears and tail. The Three Blind Mice is a really easy group costume. With some white clothes, dark sunglasses, homemade ears and tails, and a stick, you will be rocking the day.
Keeping up with the group focused costumes, some ideas for you and your friends might be the cast of Harry Potter, Mean Girls, Greek gods and goddesses, the Spice Girls, and many more. It’s up to you how much life you want to bring to your character and
what your budget is. If you want to invest a bit more, you can order your costume from Amazon or have it custommade by a seamstress.
Don’t hesitate to use your imagination and all your creativity to bring your chosen character to life. Look for videos on YouTube, DIYs on Pinterest or affordable costumes on Amazon; you will find a way to look incredible in your costume this Halloween. At the end of the day, the only thing that will remain are the memories of an incredible night with your friends. Finding a costume can be a bit tricky, but hopefully, this year it will be a treat.
CONTRIBUTOR MIZUKI KINOSHITA (SHE/HER)
ILLUSTRATOR YOHAHNAH LOKER (SHE/HER)
Of all the annual October events, the most famous is Halloween. Halloween is fun because everyone can wear cute or unique costumes, and kids can dress up and go trick-or-treating. The history of Halloween celebrations is long; for example, for ancient Celtics Halloween was a kind of religious celebration, and they wore costumes to ward off ghosts.
With all the celebration comes some pressure. For many events you have to find a costume or bring festive snacks. The nice thing is, you don’t have to be a savant in the kitchen to whip up some great treats to go with your tricks.
Here are three cute snacks and one drink that can be made easily and cheaply, and are sure to get you in the spooky spirit.
The first snack, called a Ghost Cookie, is the easiest to make. It only requires marshmallows, edible chocolate pens (or thinly piped chocolate icing) and cookies — which can be storebought or homemade. The first step is to put marshmallows on the cookies, and heat them in the microwave for 10 seconds. Almost done! The final step is drawing on the ghost’s faces with chocolate pens. This snack only uses a microwave, so it is safe for kids to make.
The next snack is gluten-free, so it is friendly for many. This recipe uses pumpkin, so it feels like a fall staple, and is called Pumpkin Pancakes. You need 45g of pumpkin, 80g of rice flour, 1 egg, 60mL of soymilk, 8 mL of rice oil, 30 g of honey and 5 g of baking powder. The first step is to cut the pumpkin in half and scoop out the pulp. Next, brush it with oil and bake it in the oven at 350 degrees Farenheit until the insides are soft, or approximately 45 to 50 minutes. Opt for store-bought pumpkin puree if you want to cut down on cook time.
Next, add the egg, honey, soymilk, and rice oil to a bowl and mix. After that is combined, mix the baked pumpkin into the bowl, followed by the rice flour and baking powder. Once everything is combined, cook in a non-stick frying pan, just like a pancake. You can decorate the pancakes by creating faces or adding festive toppings.
The next recipe is for Mummy Cookies. This snack is good for making with friends, classmates or at school events. This snack needs Oreo cookies, white chocolates, and M&Ms. The first step is melting white chocolate in the microwave for approximately 30 seconds, and then dipping one side of the Oreo cookie into the melted chocolate. Next, put M&Ms on the Oreo cookie in order to make the mummy’s eyes. Put the remaining white chocolate in a Ziploc bag and cut the end off, and use this to pipe chocolate on the Oreo cookies to look like a mummy’s bandage. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm.
The last recipe is a Halloween drink called Witch’s Brew. It uses grape and orange juice, and liquid sweetener. If you can make it correctly, the two colours sit on top of one another and look beautiful in your glass. The first step is to fill half of the glass with orange juice, and then 40 mL of liquid sweetener that is similar to what you might use in iced coffee. The last step is to pour the grape juice slowly over the orange juice. Since the orange juice with sweetener added is denser than the grape juice, it should float on top!
All of these recipes are easy, fast, safe, and fun. In addition, these are really good for spooky season events in school or at costume parties. Enjoy Halloween and overcome the rainy season with these spooky snacks.
This play discusses the complex relationship between ant-pipeline activism and the justice system, and lets the audience judge for themselves
CONTRIBUTOR YASMINE ELSAYED (SHE/HER) ILLUSTRATOR ANDY POYSTILA (HE/HIM)
The Judge’s Daughter is a semi-fictional play featured in the Vancouver Fringe Festival this year. The play was inspired by Justice Shelley Fitzpatrick, who has a history of specifically convicting Indigenous protestors. In the play, the character of Kelly Saint Patrick assumes Justice Fitzpatrick’s position.
The play follows a family of three: the husband and lawyer, James Brown, Judge Kelly Saint Patrick, and their daughter, Erin Brown.
Erin avoids the topic of her mom’s career until she falls in love with Amir, a climate change and anti-pipeline activist. This strains Kelly and Erin’s relationship, which is tested further when a climate activist dies. Whether or not Judge Saint Patrick’s incarceration of the activist created the conditions for her death is the debate that consumes the rest of the production. In The Judge’s Daughter the audience has a chance to judge for themselves.
Playwright Mairy Beam (they/them) takes a shot at Canada’s justice system in The Judge’s Daughter. After being arrested in 2018 for violating a B.C. Supreme Court injunction that blocks protesters from pipeline construction projects, Justice Ken Affleck placed Beam under house arrest for 28 days. Beam later discovered that their judge was relatively lax in their sentencing compared to others, such as Justice Shelley Fitzpatrick.
Elder Jim Leyden was part of what inspired Beam to write the play. In 2021, he was sentenced to 45 days in jail for peacefully protesting near the TMX Burnaby Terminal. His presiding judge was Shelley Fitzpatrick. Leyden tried to appeal the conviction, only for the Crown to deny his appeal.
Squamish Elder Harriet Nahanee also inspired Beam when they were writing the play. Elder Nahanee was an Indigenous rights and environmental activist. In January 2007, she was sentenced to two weeks in jail for criminal contempt for participating in the highway expansion protests in the Eagleridge Bluffs of West Vancouver. Elder Nahanee was said to be sick with the flu and had asthma before her incarceration. A week after her release, Ms. Nahanee was diagnosed with pneumonia, and doctors discovered that she had lung cancer. Unfortunately, Elder Nahanee passed away in February 2007. In March of 2007, a public
call for inquiry into the death of Ms. Nahanee to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia was placed as a response. In response, the Hon. John Les stated, “We sincerely regret the passing of Ms. Nahanee. It’s true that she was incarcerated for a short period of time. However, there is no evidence that she contracted any disease of any kind while incarcerated.”
In the play, the fictional Elder Rose is a composite character, combining the stories of Elder Nahanee and Elder Leyden. Instead of receiving a 45-day sentence like Leyden, she receives a two-month sentence for holding a drum circle near the pipeline. Kelly Saint Patrick, who volunteers to take on the TMX case, states that Elder Rose’s punishment is justified because she violated the injunction. During Elder Rose’s appearance in court, Kelly is made aware of her frail health. Elder Rose requires many medications and special treatment, and despite this, Kelly is staunch in her sentencing of the Elder. Elder Rose then dies in jail due to neglect. After hearing the news, Erin and her partner, Amir, accuse Kelly of murdering Rose, which she denies, claiming she was only following the Crown’s recommendation when dealing with “cases like these.” Throughout the play, Kelly stands her ground and keeps repeating that she did not kill elder Rose.
The Judge’s Daughter is a composite story, combining two different cases into one, but the events are closely related to Elder Harriet Nahanee’s legal case. Overall, the play was a well-executed production. Beam is transparent that the play is based on real life events, and the audience gets a good deal of information about the case and the semi-fictional Kelly Saint Patrick’s views on Indigenous advocacy. However, the 50-minute play only scratches the surface in providing information about the many unfairly treated and convicted Indigenous peoples in the Canadian justice system.
For more on the history of land dispossession in Canada see the 2019 Land Back report by the Yellowhead Institute.
“The Judge’s Daughter is a composite story, combining two different cases into one, but the events are closely related to Elder Harriet Nahanee’s legal case.”
You’ve been told to read the classics of skin-crawling horror time and time again. However, this list will not endow you with more recommendations of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Mary Shelly’s Frankenstein, or (almost) anything by Stephen King, as we’re sure you’ve heard about those enough. Instead, let us introduce you to the unexpected horror novels beloved by true thriller fans, with some mustread classics to gather from the library.
All authors and books listed can be found at CapU Library, Vancouver Public Library, or North Vancouver Public Library. The wonderfully terrifying writings of Shirley Jackson never fail to induce a fear that sticks to your skin. From her famous 1948 New Yorker short story The Lottery, to her ever-beloved 1959 novel The Haunting of Hill House, Shirley Jackson writes
Dark Tales (2016) by Shirley Jackson (1916–1965) horror like no other. While many horror fans may have read (or rather watched) The Haunting of Hill House, her beautiful collection, Dark Tales is a resurgence of the magnificent mid century author. With an introduction by BookTok darling, Ottessa Moshfegh, authour of My Year of Rest and Relaxation, this collection is a must own for many, including yours truly.
Shirley Jackson’s novels and stories are available at the VPL.
Interview With the Vampire (1976) by Anne Rice (1941–2021)
For any of us not alive in 1994, you may be somewhat unfamiliar with Anne Rice’s Interview With the Vampire or the subsequent film adaptation. The story follows a vampire named Louis as he recounts how he became a vampire and his indoctrination
into the eternal lifestyle. It’s conversion into a starstudded film, featured Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt with fangs, and a 12-year-old Kirsten Dunst in her debut role. Interview With the Vampire changed the way vampires were written, carving out the path for Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The Vampire Diaries, and the unforgettable Twilight. Available at NVPL, and VPL.
Haunted (2005) by Chuck Palahniuk (1962– ) read. This story could only be plucked from the mind of Palahniuk.
Chuck Palahniuk, the infamous author of Fight Club (1996), has a storied past as an author. His 2005 short story collection sees him dabbling into the horror genre, combining his wit and clever undertones in these 23 stories. Told from the perspective of a group of people who have answered an ad for a writer’s retreat and accidentally joined a Survivor-esque horror scenario, the ruthlessness of the plot boils over as they continue on, creating a truly disturbing
Available at the VPL.
Providence (2021) by Alan Moore (1953– ) and Jacen Burrows (1972– )
H.P. Lovecraft is known for his near-perfect horror, though those of us who want to enjoy his literary world while boycotting the author and his bigoted views, allow me to introduce you to Providence. Written by Alan Moore, author of Watchmen, and V for Vendetta, Moore is the king of the satiric comic novel. He writes from inside Lovecraft’s world, following a gay man as he discovers that the ‘horror’
he is facing is his repressed sexuality. A masterpiece in many ways, Moore delivers the horror you love, while satirizing its influence.
P.S. for CapU literature students, can you guess who this recommendation comes from?
Alan Moore’s other works can be found at NVDPL.
Frankenstein in Baghdad (2013) by Ahmed Saadawi (1973– ) murderous rampage, Hadi soon realizes what he’s created.
Finally, take a turn from Mary Shelley’s classic Frankenstein to a gut-wrenching novel of political activism and horror fiction. Set in the streets of U.S.occupied Baghdad, author Ahmed Saadawi follows Hadi, a scavenger collecting human body parts. Hadi begins to stitch them together to create a corpse. His goal being for the government to recognize the parts as people and give them a proper burial. Though, when the corpse not only goes missing, but begins a
Available at CapU Library.
In closing, whether you are reading an old horror classic, short story, or contemporary thriller, I encourage you to carve out some time this October to read something frightful. Step away from the textbooks, and go explore the horror fiction in your local library. You never know what you may find, or what terrifying nightmares are bound to follow you for months to come.
A special thank you to CapU’s beloved literature professor, Kent Lewis, for the horrifying recommendations.
ARTS
Many CapU students strolling around Lonsdale on their way to campus may notice a new addition to the scenery at 151 W Esplanade Ave. A brand new mural by local artist Rashmi Tyagi was recently installed just one block up from the Shipyards area as part of the annual Vancouver Mural Festival. Tyagi’s piece is a vinyl installation sponsored by the City of North Vancouver, and the sprawling, three-panel image is a celebration of the rich diversity of North Vancouver’s flora and fauna. Entitled “Reverie,” Tyagi hopes that her work will offer a moment of respite from busy daily life, and allow those in the neighborhood to appreciate the natural beauty of the city, as well as the importance of preserving it.
As a graphic designer and illustrator with a background in architecture, Tyagi has largely focused her work in the digital space during her time as an independent artist. “This is my first big mural. There was a lot that I was trying to bring together,” she shared.
Originally from northern India, Tyagi recalls growing up among rich culture and biodiversity, surrounded by mountains. Arriving in North Vancouver earlier this year, she says that the mountains here helped her to form a new understanding of connectivity. “For me it is the same. The same feelings and community. It’s the same force that connects us all.” Tyagi says that recognizing the different cultures that surround us helped to shape and ground her work. She compares the different kinds of people to the different kinds of plants that surround us.
Though she had never tackled a project quite like this one, Tyagi said that shortly after arriving in Vancouver she just had a feeling that she should apply to the Vancouver Mural Festival. VMF is a non-profit organization supporting local artists, with the intention of building community and lifting up underrepresented and marginalized voices. Tyagi applied with the idea she would be painting a traditional mural. However, the organization worked with her and decided on a vinyl installation, which allowed Tyagi to create her art digitally. She speaks highly of the VMF team’s efforts in bringing her work to life, both in their commitment and collaboration with the city and herself.
The piece itself, titled “Reverie,” is a love letter to the diverse biota of North Vancouver. Rich and robust in depth and colour, Tyagi says that the idea of flow was central to her design. A sense of movement and story carry the viewer through scenes of local nature, as seen through the human eye. She says that the title helped to inform her design. “Concepts are very important to me,” says Tiagi. The guidelines for the piece aligned with including various local species, many of which the artist says she is grateful to have discovered through this project. Some notable examples include Japanese irises, torch lilies, hostas and Preston lilacs.
A recurring motif in Tyagi’s mural is the idea of humans as guardians of the natural world. Each scene in the image centers nature through the human perspective, and emphasizes humanity as a force for preservation and stewardship. “Human beings are just traveling through the cosmos as part of the exchange we have with the universe. In reality we are not entitled to anything in the enormity of nature. We are temporary. We are visitors on Earth,” says Tyagi. Especially amidst the ongoing climate crisis, the artist feels the importance to emphasize the insignificance of humans amidst the vastness of Mother Nature.
Nature doesn’t need our attention, she says, but it offers the opportunity to recognize a spiritual need to witness what is happening around us, so that we can witness what is inside of us. “Reverie” offers viewers a chance to observe, to reflect and to appreciate. “The main feeling that I would want the audience to come away with is the idea that we are here to protect and preserve,” Tyagi shares “I would be so happy if that is what people take away from this piece.”
“Reverie” by Rashmi Tyagi is located at 151 W Esplanade, North Vancouver, BC. You can find more of her work at @byrashmityagi on Instagram. More work featured by VMF can be found at vanmuralfest.ca.
“PROTECTED”
CHRISTINE ‘TIN’ RAGANIT
CONTRIBUTOR EUGENIA TREVINO (SHE/HER)
ILLUSTRATOR SIOBHAN BARRY (SHE/HER)
Fright Nights at Playland is an annual event that happens every October. It has thrilling attractions, multiple choices for food and drinks, festival games, and haunted houses. The rides range from The Beast to the West Coast Wheel. Due to the different levels of heights and views, there are rides for all people, including people who don’t like to be extreme, such as the ferris wheel.
It is a fun place to go with friends and loved ones. The staff dress in costume, and they fully commit to their roles. Although the tickets might seem pricey for some people, I believe it is worth going to Fright Nights – as it is more thrilling than the PNE fair. Fright Nights is underrated, and everyone should try and make it a Halloween tradition.
First, during the yearly fall event, rides are included in the ticket price, as opposed to the PNE where you have to spend money per ride you want to experience. Most of the rides offered in summer are available in October as well and there is something for adrenaline lovers and those that enjoy a slower pace.
As someone who enjoys the slower side of things, I enjoyed the less extreme aspects of the park. You will find no shortage of creative costumes and staff committed to scaring guests of the event. The creepiest people wandering the crowds are the menacing clowns, ready to terrorize anyone walking by. The fear of someone popping out at you creates an exciting environment not offered in many other places.
The ride that is the most popular for people who like extreme rides is The Beast. Although I am not brave enough to get seated on that spinning, swinging deathtrap, I can’t help but watch the terrifying screams coming from riders. The Hellevator is a brief but thrilling
experience, a ride that drags you up and down. I didn’t like it, but can see why many keep lining up. Lastly, the ideal ride for adrenaline and non-adrenaline lovers alike is called Atmosfear. Every time I visit Playland, I never miss the chance to swing above the grounds. It’s a nice break from the more intense rides. Plus, the view of all the costumes, spooky lighting and Halloween pleasure being had below is incredible.
Most of the food found at the stands are the classic options to be had during the PNE. The less exciting aspect of Fright Nights is the food, but it’s not bad for amusement park dining. There are enough choices for all kinds of eaters, and the mini donuts will fill you up.
I hope this year will be just as exciting as the last time I went. Fright Nights is offering scary attractions, such as Keepers Doll Factory, Haunted Mansion, Materia Medica, and the newest creepy fortress, The Void. Although I haven’t gone to all of them yet, I’m ready for a memorable and thrilling experience that the staff is sure to provide. After all, what would Halloween be without some entertaining spookiness?
For anyone that enjoys creepiness, this should be on their Vancouver bucket list. Even if you don’t go every year, it will be an unforgettable moment that will create a lifetime of memories. If you’re anything like me, you will be excited to go back and see what’s different from the last visit.
EXPRESSING YOURSELF THROUGH FUNKY FRESH COSTUMES
CONTRIBUTOR JASMIN LINTON (SHE/HER)
ILLUSTRATOR GERALDINE YARIS (SHE/HER)
Many people love dressing up for Halloween. It is a day where anything goes; no one is going to judge pattern clashes or too many colours. As a kid, I remember starting to plan my costume as early as June. I would gather bits of clothing to fashion into something presentable. I’d spend weeks searching for makeup tutorials, trying to keep my hands steady. What I ended up going as is irrelevant to the story. All that mattered was how excited I was and that I was comfortable in what I had chosen.
Rather than focus on other’s costumes and if they are lame or not, what if we focused on the intention and joy that went into the creation? I would like to share with you the joys of dressing up for Halloween, celebrating the delight of self-expression and encouraging pride in your weirdness. But don’t worry, you won’t have to make sure a snowsuit can fit under your costume.
Putting yourself out there can be really scary, but how will you know what you do and don’t like about your style or expression? With all the masks and makeup you are free to explore aspects of yourself through your costume. And the best part, no one will know it’s you. Society puts a lot of pressure on individuals, particularly teens and young adults, on how to conform. Halloween can be an escape from what people think and the expectations they have. In a way, anonymity serves as a safety net — any anxiety or fear of trying something new or moving out of your comfort zone will hopefully begin to ebb.
Every year is a new opportunity to show off a fresh and funky costume — be it bringing your favourite book character to life, going as an inanimate object or just sticking to the classics. There are unlimited options when it comes to what to dress up as, as well as unlimited ways. Take this opportunity to fully alter your costume to suit what you envision for yourself, and if you’re the type that likes the costume as is, that’s perfectly fine too.
Costumes can provide the perfect cover to try out something new. There are so many styles and personalities out there, how would you know what fits without trying it on? Halloween is a great way to experiment with style or unique items of clothing that you normally wouldn’t dare touch. There are no limitations. Even if you can’t find the perfect costume, you can make your own from scratch or alter an existing one. Everyone else will be in elaborate get ups anyway, the spooky season is a great excuse to do the same. Treat this time as a practice run or, if you like, a runway stage.
But no matter what you end up going as for Halloween, someone is always going to have an opinion on it. Most judgment surrounding today’s Halloween costumes comes from a place of gender bias and the infamous double standard. Girls are expected to wear less clothing as they get older (but are criticized regardless of if they choose to or not). Boys are expected to ‘not try too hard’ and just throw something together, while facing ridicule if they show ‘too much’ interest. Since these boxes are still incredibly rigid, non-binary folks get excluded from the equation all together. Any deviance from the norm results in unnecessary judgment that can result in low self-esteem, limit potential and increase mental health issues. It’s important to recognize this kind of judgement and the result of it, but not let it dictate your decisions. No matter what you wear, it’s impossible to please everyone. So instead of striving for the impossible, remember that at the end of the day, your opinion is the only relevant one.
Halloween is not just a day for dressing up, it’s an occasion to celebrate individuality and the joy of self-expression. Rather than fixating on judgement or conformity, we should focus on the intention and creativity that go into crafting costumes. So, let’s revel in dressing up, relish our uniqueness, and cherish the opportunity to proudly express ourselves.
“Remember that at the end of the day, your opinion is the only relevant one.”
How a change in route led to a bigger, better, and more vibrant Pride Parade
CREW WRITER LEA KRUSEMEYER (SHE/HER)
ILLUSTRATOR JJ ENG (THEY/THEM)
In a world that is constantly changing, it is no surprise that the 2023 Vancouver Pride Parade also decided to switch things up this year. The Parade stood as a shining example of a changing community coming together to celebrate diversity, equality, and the power of love. This year’s Pride Parade delivered a unique and unforgettable experience, thanks in big parts to its new route and a plethora of exciting events that were part of it.
The decision to change the parade route was met with criticism when announced. People in the queer community of Vancouver were taken aback by the decision to take the parade away from Davie Street and honestly, so was I. As someone who lives in Davie Village and views this area as my home, I did not understand why the parade was rerouted. My first instinct was to assume it had something to do with companies and profit and was all about how the parade could be even more commercialized. It took some thinking for me and for other people in the community to understand that yes, with change comes the possibility of failure, but this year’s parade was an immense success.
The new route allowed the parade to go along the beautiful seawall, which gave access to spectators from the streets, the buildings, but also the ocean. People gathered on boats, small and large, and got together to watch the annual event. Having the parade end near Pacific Boulevard also meant more people were able to attend the concerts, poetry events, and other festivities that were part of the 2023 Pride event. The decision to change the parade route this year was a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the LGBTQ+ community in Vancouver.
The new route showcased Vancouver’s diverse neighborhoods and highlighted the importance of LGBTQIA2S+ visibility and acceptance in all corners of the city. Starting from English Bay and winding its way through the West End along the ocean all the way through Yaletown towards Science World, the parade represented a message of unity and inclusivity. It encourages residents from all walks of life to join in the celebration, making it a true reflection of the city’s progressive values. This year’s parade was more accessible than the parades of previous years mainly because of the change of route. There were quiet zones, wheelchair-accessible areas, and scent-free zones set up all along the route.
Due to the convenient ending location of the parade, live performances and entertainment on Sunday captivated attendees and spread messages of love and acceptance to more people than ever before. From drag queens to local bands and even international stars of the community like Madison Rose from New York City or Trixie Mattel from RuPaul’s Drag Race, the stages were a testament to the diversity of talent within the LGBTQIA2S+ community.
As we came together to celebrate the 2023 Vancouver Pride Parade, we were reminded about the significance of this event. It is not merely a party, but a symbol of resilience, progress, and the unyielding commitment to equality for all. The new route and the addition of informative and entertaining events made this year’s Pride Parade an even more enriching experience for me, my friends, and hopefully all others who attended.
In a world that often feels divided, the Vancouver Pride Parade reminded us of the power of unity and the beauty of diversity. Let us embrace the change, cherish the history, and celebrate the progress as we look back on 2023 and forward to Pride 2024. Change is scary but it can offer more than we could have imagined.
JAYDE ATCHISON (SHE/HER)
ILLUSTRATOR
NATASHA LEE (SHE/HER)
Walking up the hill towards Vieux Lyon, the older section of the city, my friend was getting ready to introduce me to a pink praline pastry I must try. What she didn’t realize while climbing the cobblestone was that I was going to fall in love with the spooky atmosphere that Lyon had to offer. I’ll admit I did end up falling head over heels for the brioches aux pralines, but they were just the cherry on top of a creepy sundae.
Europe seems to be the reigning champion of maintaining a medieval vibe all year round. Castles, cobblestone, architecture from years I can’t even fathom, and an abundance of ornate churches that are definitely haunted. Most places you pass through in France, and maybe Europe as a whole, have an ominous feel to them. I traveled to seven cities throughout France, The Netherlands and Portugal, and Lyon took the prize of spookiest spot.
While I inhaled my new favourite dessert, we stumbled through the small streets of the old city. Dust-covered books lined the walls of an antique shop, where an elderly man sat and worked on his typewriter, back to the window. I stopped to admire this quaint scene, he turned to look out at the bustling tourists, and the disdain in his eyes was right out of a horror film. I couldn’t get enough.
My friend dragged me away from the bookkeeper from hell, and we wandered into a side street covered in marionette dolls. I was immediately obsessed with these little creatures. Handmade wooden dolls all hung from strings in the stores surrounding us. I could not whip out my camera fast enough, I wanted to remember these weirdly menacing puppets forever. I never did get an explanation of the significance of these Pinocchio imposters, but there were magnets, postcards, and other souvenirs with their likeness around the city. These dolls were enough to scare a small child, and simply a joy for the Halloween, creepy-loving girl I am.
After we spent enough time with the nightmare fuel hanging from the rafters, we found our way to a calmer, more peaceful road. A window display showcased a movie museum tucked away in an old building. I looked at my friend and she said she’d rather grab a beer but encouraged me to go check out the horror props I desperately wanted to see. I entered the Musée Cinéma et Miniature, and I basked in creepy goodness. Costumes, props and gory reactrations of my favourite movies were displayed on five floors. I could have stayed to admire for hours, but wanted to enjoy the rest of what Lyon had to offer. This was just our first day here, I couldn’t wait to see what other haunting features we would come across.
I still have countless destinations in Europe and the UK to fulfill my witchy, macabre fantasies. Perhaps my mind may be changed after wandering the sites of Edinburgh this month, but as it stands, Lyon has sent more shivers down my spine than any other city I’ve been to—a city that emits spooky energy anytime of the year, not just when Halloween decorations are littered about.
Sure, vitamin D is nice but it’s no PSL
OPINONS EDITOR JAYDE ATCHISON (SHE/HER)
CREW ILLUSTRATOR CHELLE LUSSI (SHE/THEY)
As much as I enjoy the summer—beach days, cold beers on a hot patio, volleyball, and an influx of freckles—I’m an elder emo kid who can only do so much sun. I don’t get the serotonin boost that a lot of people get from a rise in temperature. I can definitely get behind longer daylight hours and the overall happy atmosphere that summer offers, but I know my happiness stems from the touch of red that slowly creeps down the tree leaves in September. I have embraced my love of autumn and know that my prime reignites when the pumpkin spice latte drops.
In the warmer months, there is a sense of sociability that needs to be adhered to, or else you’re ‘wasting a perfectly good day.’ I’m not often in Vancouver, so the odd days I was home and didn’t feel like leaving my house it never felt like a satisfying lazy day at home. I would stress that I should be doing something outside, soaking in those rare rays of sunshine before we hit the perpetual rain. My ghostly white complexion is only able to handle so much summer sun before I need to seek a shady spot and stake a claim.
When you bail on plans, or have a day to yourself in October you can typically do it guilt free—the gusty winds, the chilling rain, the darkening sky, it all adds up to the perfect excuse to find that oversized blanket, light those pumpkin candles, and cozy up with a book. No one will blame you for not joining in on the outdoor activities when they’re probably thinking of doing the same. For some, bundling up and staying stagnant for upwards of eight hours may sound like torture, but for me it is giving my inner child everything she ever wanted.
Sign me up for Gilmore Girls rewatches, autumnal hues of rustic red and sunflower yellow. Give me an abundance of oversized sweaters and leather pants without the fear of sweat. I want to know I can leave my house in a chic fall outfit and there’s no chance I will have to layer up or down. October is the ultimate month for those aesthetic ‘fits you’ve been holding out on. Get dressed up and walk through Stanley Park on a foggy day while listening to Fleetwood Mac and fulfill the witchy vibes you’ve been craving all year (surely I can’t be the only one).
Sipping on hot drinks is possible all year round, but it is only truly satisfying when you can start to see the hint of your breath in the air. While providing the warmth you need, it is also a tasty treat to remind you that autumn is delicious. If pumpkin spice isn’t your jam, the apple alternatives are a very sweet alternative. Let your basic bitch shine — embrace her and allow yourself the indulgences, no matter
how mainstream or silly they may be. There is something special about going to a pumpkin patch with your best friend and getting caught up in the whimsy of the day.
Halloween is just one day in October, but it is truly a force that overpowers the month. The haunting lights, the fog covered roads, the trees already naked from their yearly shedding, the movies and television shows being released to embody the vibe. All of it is on brand for the holiday, and who doesn’t love when a theme is committed?
Try not to mourn the summer, or the hotter days—we know they’ll be back next year with a vengeance. For now, bask in the colours changing around you, dig your favourite hoodie out of the closet, watch your favourite movie series that feels like autumn (mine is Lord of the Rings). Realize that the season is telling you it’s okay to rest without guilt, so enjoy the mood setting sound of rain falling outside your room, because before you know it, it will be too cold or dark to appreciate what’s outside your window.
Cults have been a common area of study for the past century and have really come to the forefront of mainstream media in recent years. Everybody wants to know about cults and wants to toss the word around, whether accurate or not. To me, a cult is a religiousadjacent organization that may have outlandish faith systems or beliefs and is not part of a religion. I’ve heard religions be called cults and vice versa. I’ve also heard people say that all religions begin as cults. Although I agree there may be similarities, there are certain distinguishing differences between cults and religions.
Religions are much more open with their teachings, whereas cults may have a subscriber-based or loyalty-based ‘unlocking’ of information in which participants either must be chosen or must pay money to be initiated. It is also oftentimes mandatory to pay to unlock features or to fund private events, but in religion the money is optional and on a donation basis. Donations are usually used to fund aspects of the organization that benefit the whole community or for public events.
The idea of community is also a big differentiating feature. Religion brings communities together and is oftentimes a uniting force regardless of which religion you follow while also encouraging familial and friendly relations, whereas cults isolate you from the outside world.
Cults are so easy to join that people get tricked into them all the time; maybe they’re even so mundane and out in the open that you’ve already joined one without realizing it. *Cough* looking at you, fandoms, standoms, Swifties…
Who can blame anyone, though, when the cults themselves have major celebrity endorsements? Tom Cruise for Scientology (Scientology is a religious-adjacent organization, self-described as a religion, which is what made me use it as an example; it is not a cult) and Miley Cyrus for whatever cult people think she’s joined now. It’s not easy to avoid the topic if your idols are the center of it.
I was recently informed of an organization you may have heard of recently, described as a ‘sex cult’ across North America. It was called NXIVM and was founded by a sex offender by the name
of Keith Raniere. He would recruit people in highly populated cities, including Vancouver, and he targeted high-profile persons such as our very own Kristin Kreuk and Allison Mack. Under the guise of ‘self-help,’ Raniere would go through Hollywood’s social circles recruiting actors and directors to become high-ranking officials in the cult.
It was rumoured that Raniere would feed off of those actors’ insecurities from their lack of consistent larger successes and coerce them into joining NXVIM. The cult used the aforementioned loyalty-based unlocking of information; with the promise of achieving meaningful success, outside of film and television, they would be working to climb the social ladder within the organization. Getting closer to Raniere, thus gaining his affection and being told that they were making a meaningful difference.
It was also rumoured that they were branded across the pelvis, however it is unclear whether that also made a meaningful difference.
It seems like a common belief that people who fall victim to cults must be stupid or weak-minded but I think that it’s our responsibility as the consumers of information, the ones responsible for making up the public opinion, to turn that back onto the cult leaders. They are the ones manipulating and preying on vulnerable people.
People seem to think that you have to be a really specific type of person to join a cult and that celebrities should be immune since they have power and influence. I’m not a regular defender of celebrities — I don’t keep up with that stuff often enough. However, with evidence from the case of Raniere and NXVIM backing up this point, I do think that this is exactly the reason they get targeted — power and influence. So, enjoy your fanning, stanning, and Swifting, but remember to be careful with how deep you fall.
Hi there folks. Welcome back to a special spooky edition of The Starving Artist. October is in the air (and on our calendars), Hallows’ Eve draws ever closer, and our tummies demand that our craving for the freaky be satiated through digestive means. Well, your tummies are in luck. I have traveled many miles for this recipe. Traversing the lower mainland, hanging out behind dumpsters, looking at people intensely on the bus, all to study the weird flavour combinations of our tired city. This recipe is a little ditty from a person named Jacob. A few things you need to know about them before we begin. 1. Jacob lives without internet or TV 2. Jacob prides themself in their cooking and baking ability and 3. Jacob refuses to see how this recipe may be weird.
Personally, when I unearthed this recipe from the dark annals of weird, I was horrified. So utterly spooked by what this flavour combination could mean for the mental health of our society, I seriously questioned whether it was worth sharing. But above a human, I am a Capilano Courier writer, bound by the sacred oath of honesty. It is a matter I don’t take lightly, and one I hope readers don’t underestimate. So, prepare your stomachs for this terrifying treat and if this is too scary for you — just remember — you can’t sue me, I have mob connections.
ILLUSTRATOR
Cost of Meal: $0.78 and permanently altered brain chemistry
A pack of Saltine Crackers
1 jar of Marmite
1 Container of mustard (Preferably dijon, get a little classy with it)
Directions
1. Wait until midnight before you begin to prepare this meal. Or, at the very least, close all your blinds and turn off your lights. This is a very “under the cover of night” type operation.
2. Alright, now that you are in full goblin mode, it’s time, time for the goblin food. Grab your ingredients and find a weird place to sit in your kitchen, preferably sprawled on the floor. Comfortable? Good.
3. Ok, cracker time. Grab a cracker and hold it in your hand, plates cannot help you where you’re going. Grab a knife for the marmite* and listen to me carefully.
*As an Australian citizen I would make my mom cry if I, in good conscience, told you to eat marmite. Vegemite all the way baby, long live the shrimp on the barbie.
4. Grab a sliver, A SLIVER of marmite. I’m talking half to one quarter of your pinky nail here. Everyone who has this stuff complains
it’s gross because they glob it on like its nutella. Don’t be that person. Start small and work up.
5. Get that mustard bottle, make sure it’s dijon. Shake it, shake that dijon good. Shake it to the point where someone would be like “man, that’s enough. Stop shaking the dijon . . . seriously dude, stop.” OK, great, now squirt the dijon on the cracker.
6. Eat the creepy cracker.
7. Try not to barf.
8. You’re OK, it’s fine, a person too good for the internet guarantees this is good.
9. Realize it’s not that bad.
10. Seriously, it’s not that bad.
11. Have another (repeat 24 times).
12. Live with the knowledge that it’s actually kind of good.
So there you go, a goblin treat for all you midterm goblins out there. Now you must live with the burden of this curse, with the monster this has made you become. And remember! It’s not my fault, you’re the one who ate it. Merry spooky season y’all.
BooOOOOoooo Apparition!
— The Starving Artist
COLUMNS EDITOR SARA BRINKAC (SHE/THEY) TANG
A mysterious murder on a stormy night. But who did it? Where? With what?
A murder-mystery based on the Parker Brother’s blockbuster board game. I must admit that I first dismissed Clue as another studio cash grab using existing IP in order to maximize profits on an otherwise mediocre plot. How wrong I was. Despite a few dated jokes, Clue is a romp of a film, with jokes flying so fast you might miss them. Clever Monty Python-esque comedy combined with a dose of slapstick and self awareness elevates what could be a cookie-cutter whodunnit to a spooky season must-see.
A group of strangers all receive a mysterious invitation to dinner at a secluded mansion. Miss Scarlet, Professor Plum, Mr. Green, Mrs. Peacock, Colonel Mustard and Mrs. White have never met, but they all have one thing in common: they are being blackmailed. When their elusive host, Mr. Boddy, reveals himself as the blackmailer, and that he has called the police in order to expose all in attendance, mayhem ensues. Mr. Boddy’s body is discovered soon after these revelations and the mystery deepens. The guests must now discover which of them is the murderer before the police arrive.
Despite its macabre subject matter, Clue is uproariously funny. The audience quickly learns what kind of movie they are in for with a running joke about dog poop. Tim Curry as Wadsworth the butler delivers his signature overthe-top physicality and droll delivery. Lesley Ann Warren is also excellent as Miss Scarlet, acting as somewhat of an audience surrogate, willing to comment on the comedy and absurdity of the situation. Clue manages to balance big and brash comedy with quieter moments of wit that you may not catch upon first viewing.
The speed at which the plot progresses makes it very easy to watch. Occasionally things are flying at the screen so quickly that it can sometimes feel like one is barely able to keep up. However, the absurd tone does lend a bit of balance, and I found myself accepting these moments of confusion as another element of humour.
The house, like the board game, is a large part of the story. It feels like a character in itself, revealing secret passageways and hidden clues, among other more sinister secrets. Set in the mid-50s, the film delivers on its
haunted house aspect with a vintage feel and very deliberate instances of colour. The costumes also serve to accentuate the already exaggerated characters, each with their own distinct style and personality.
It is impressive that all of the characters are so distinct, as the film relies heavily on their interplay. The contained mystery lends itself to snappy exchanges and constantly changing character dynamics. Accident prone Mr. Green, hysterical Mrs. Peacock and canny Miss Scarlet stand out from the pack.
As things continue to go awry at the dinner party from hell the mayhem amps up and up and up, building to a crescendo where all is revealed. Who is the murderer? How did they kill Mr. Boddy? What weapon did they use? How are all of these people connected? The web untangles, but not the way one might expect. Clue’s ending is unlike any I have ever seen in a mystery, and, if nothing else, I implore viewers to stay tuned all the way to the credits.
GWEN PEMBERTON (SHE/HER) ILLUSTRATOR EVA STAUB (SHE/HER)
I have found the job of my dreams — visiting cities I have never been to before, working with people that have the same values and sense of adventure, and a flexible schedule that allows me to travel for pleasure. I feel at peace and am still excited to get to the airport each day. However, while I wouldn’t leave this job for anything else (except maybe finding out I’m the Princess of Genovia), there is a dark side to the world of aviation that isn’t always talked about.
For decades shows and movies have painted being a flight attendant as a glamorous and desirable career. Traveling the world and being put up in nice hotels, meeting and befriending wealthy people on flights, dating someone in each city, and working alongside some of the most beautiful people on the planet. While some of that is true, what those movies don’t show you is the gritty reality that comes before the fun. Where there is pleasure, there surely lies pain.
Planes rarely smell good. If you’re lucky, you may get a Boeing straight off the line (if the company is providing new aircrafts). You may get to experience one or two flights with shiny new curtains, carpets without stains and ovens that don’t smell like 17 old meals left to die. If you’re not so fortunate, you walk onto a plane to start your day and it smells of feet, because everyone insists on whipping off their shoes and letting “the dogs breathe” the second they settle into their seats. Now, I understand wanting to avoid the discomfort of swelling inside a sneaker for four hours, but I will never comprehend using a bathroom in bare feet.
I try to avoid touching any surface of an aircraft washroom at all costs (and I’m on up to four flights a day over 13 hours —
OPINIONS EDITOR JAYDE ATCHISON (SHE/HER) ILLUSTRATOR CELINA ZHONG (SHE/HER)that’s a lot of peeing). It boggles my mind when people throw caution to the wind, make good with whatever gods they pray to and let their whole appendages touch the unscrubbed ground. True, the lavatories on planes are cleaned between each flight, but I can promise you they are not up to your clean freak mom’s standards — at least they’re not up to my mother’s.
While the grossness of planes may sound like the worst part of the job, I find myself not so bothered by the mess. I can don some gloves, a mask and laugh about the situations with my crew. Taking a close second to the worst aspect of aviation, is the guests that check their manners in along with their luggage. I know that travel can be stressful. People have tight connections and places they need to be, but more often than not the crew on board each flight also does not want a delay. They would rather be snuggling into their hotel to get some rest before another day of flying, or desperately want to go home after five days of being away. Yelling at the flight attendants will never make the plane move faster.
In the short time that I have been flying, I have noticed a distinct type of traveler. When we drag the service cart up to the front of the economy section and begin the repetitive “Anything to drink?” there will always be someone to cut off the person sitting next to them to shout, “I’ll do a tomato juice. No ice.” These passengers are why I am quickly getting salt and pepper hair. I have to bite my tongue, smile and say “Sure thing.” There seems to be a consensus that the words please and thank you are only meant for solid ground, as we don’t typically hear it in the air. Entitlement seems to skyrocket the moment people step into an airport.
The hardest part of being a flight attendant, however, is while being in cool new places every week, you’re actually missing things at home. I can handle dirty toilets, and dirtier verbiage because I know the flight will be over within a set amount of time. Afterwards, I can either climb into my own bed, or go explore bookstores across the world. I can forget the passengers, but it’s hard to forget the fear of missing out.
In only four months, I have already missed birthdays, pride events, dinners, lazy beach catch-ups, girls nights and family breakfasts. I’m home five scattered days a month and want to spend them catching up with people I love, but am often too drained to see them all. I already know I’ll miss all the big holidays this winter, spending them with strangers 40,000 feet above the ground— ensuring they also don’t miss the turkey dinners.
While I might be missing out on weddings, births, and other exciting milestones, I know the people around me understand and know I will celebrate with them when our schedules align. In the meantime, if I have to miss crucial dates I’ll just hope to be somewhere tropical with a fruity drink in my hand to combat some of the FOMO.
As fall is slowly settling in, the best season (in my opinion) is upon us—squash season!
CHELLE LUSSI (SHE/THEY)
FREYA EMERY (SHE/HER)
This cost efficient recipe got me through most of my fall and winter terms as a broke student (which relates some who are reading this). My butternut squash soup brings warmth and comfort, and leftovers last quite a while.
2 medium sized butternut squash
2 yellow or white onions
Half a chinese carrot
5 garlic cloves
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Paprika
1. Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit
2. Cut up your squash into halves, be sure to scoop out all the seeds and gunk in the middle
3. Take a cookie tray with parchment paper and place the squash face down onto the tray, drizzle olive oil onto the squash and lather them in oil to ensure they get nice and crispy
4. Place in oven for 45 minutes
5. While waiting for squash to cook, place 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a pot and place on the stove at medium heat
6. Cube your onions, carrot and mince your garlic
7. When warm enough place the veggies in the pot with your desired amount of paprika, cayenne pepper and salt and pepper in side stirring occasionally
8. Once squash is fully cooked, peel off the skins and place into the pot.
Cayenne pepper
1 Cup of Vegetable stock
3 Tablespoons of Whipping cream
9. Mash the squash and then pour the entire box of veggie stock into the pot
10. Turn the heat up to high and bring the soup to a boil
11. Stir the soup thoroughly once brought to a boil, bring the heat back to medium to low
12. Add in whipping cream and stir
13. Once you’re happy with the consistency—your soup is ready to serve
This soup goes with any savory meal, be it a grilled cheese or steak and potatoes! Butternut squash’s natural sweetness helps balance out the whole meal.
You can place the soup in the freezer to last longer and when you’re starting to run low on soup you can place it in a pot and add more veggies of your choice and top up with veggie stock.
Anyone who tries this recipe, we’d love to see the turnout and know how you liked it!
Dear Editor,
I find it deeply disheartening that some members of my own Punjabi Sikh community are actively opposing LGBTQ rights, education on LGBTQ matters, and human rights in the context of SOGI (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity). Transgender people have especially been under constant attack for trying to be true to themselves. Similarly, these anti-LGBTQ+ protesters are also critical of initiatives like Drag Queen Story Time, which, in my view, fosters a sense of inclusivity and allows individuals to embrace the diversity of human experiences.
As Sikhs, it is incumbent upon us to champion the rights of those who are vulnerable, marginalized, or oppressed. We must recognize that we are all equal in the eyes of a higher authority, and no one should assume the role of judging the creations of that divine force. I firmly believe that God does not desire suffering for any of his children, and it is our duty to ensure that everyone is treated with respect, compassion, and dignity.
We are one people, one world, and one humanity. Our differences make us stronger. The miracle of creation is our diversity. Stop bashing LGBTQ+ people and targeting our lives and in some cases people’s livelihoods.
LIVE AND LET LIVE!
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CAPILANO UNIVERSITY is located on the traditional unceded territories of the LíỈwat, xʷməθkʷəỷəm (Musqueam), shíshálh (Sechelt), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and SəỈílwətaʔ/ Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
We recognize our presence here as guests on this sacred land and deeply appreciate the privilege to work, study, and reside in this remarkable place. The Capilano Courier acknowledges that this gesture is just a starting point on the path to reconciliation, and we are committed to amplifying Indigenous voices and sharing their stories.
THE CAPILANO COURIER is an autonomous, democratically-run student newspaper that encourages literary and visual submissions. However, all submissions undergo editing for brevity, taste, and legality. We are committed to not publishing material that the collective deems as promoting sexism, racism, or homophobia. The views expressed by the contributing writers are not necessarily those of the Capilano Courier publishing society.
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