Ω OMEGA
NEW ISSUE EVERY WEDNESDAY · WWW.TRUOMEGA.CA · @TRU_OMEGA · FB.ME/TRUOMEGA
A B Γ Δ Ε Ζ Η Θ Ι Κ Λ Μ Ν Ξ Ο Π Ρ Σ Τ Υ Φ Χ Ψ Ω
THE
T H O M P S O N R I V E R S U N I V E R S I T Y ' S I N D E P E N D E N T S T U D E N T N E W S PA P E R
VOLUME 27 · ISSUE 13 · NOVEMBER 29, 2017
PAGE
2
GENDER-NEUTRAL SIGN INSTALLED
PAGE
5
ONE-ACT PLAYS REVIEWED
PAGE
4
FUNDRAISER IN MEMORY OF BROTHER
Students want a say in choosing food service provider Wade Tomko CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Ω TRUSU expects that a Freedom of Information request to have TRU’s food service contract made public will be released Dec. 4. The FOI came as a result of TRU’s unwillingness to participate in discussions on its food service provider contract with the community. The FOI request, which was filed earlier this summer and received by the university on July 19, followed a period
JINGLING RIGHT ALONG Mr. and Mrs. Claus were joined by the WolfPack and TRU staffers in the annual Santa Claus Parade.
PHOTOS, PAGE 8
of repeated delays and denials when it came to discussions between TRU’s administration and TRUSU. TRUSU met with director of ancillary services Glenn Read prior to the information request, but talks quickly broke down, according to TRUSU president Tatiana Gilbert. “We were very happy when we had this initial campaign idea and we met with Glenn in hopes that administration, the students’ union and the campus community could work together,” Gilbert said.
“Unfortunately it didn’t go as planned. In the end, he decided to not work with us and that has made things difficult.” Gilbert and the rest of the students’ union have since expressed their disappointment in the form of a letter to TRUSU members, asking students around campus to sign petitions encouraging TRU to consult with the campus community.
See STUDENT UNION Page 2
2
NEWS
NOVEMBER 29, 2017
Report projects 917,000 job openings in B.C. over the next 10 years FIGURE 2-6: Job Openings by Major Occupational Group, B.C., 2017-2027
Wade Tomko
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Ω Over the next decade, 917,000 job openings will be created in British Columbia, according to this year’s Labour Market Outlook by the B.C. government. Of these jobs, 78 per cent will either require some form of a post-secondary education or professional training. The report, which is produced annually, uses data from organizations such as StatsCan and the province’s finance ministry to predict trends in employment over the next 10 years. Though nearly eight in 10 jobs between now and 2027 will require post-secondary education, this trend is consistent with the 2016 edition of the outlook. Nearly half of the predicted jobs, 48 per cent, will be filled by people entering the workforce for the first time. Another 36 per cent will be filled by immigrants or workers from other provinces. Most of these jobs openings, 70 per cent, are the result of retirees leaving the workforce, while only 30 per cent of the new jobs created are due to economic growth. According to the outlook, the main source of employment over the next decade will be people under 30. It is predicted this demographic will fill 44,000 new jobs a year between now and 2027. In comparison, immigrants and workers from other provinces are expected to fill 32,000 jobs a year over the next decade. Despite almost a million jobs being created by 2027,
SALES AND SERVICE
113,900
BUSINESS, FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION
108,100
MANAGEMENT
105,100
TRADES, TRANSPORT AND EQUIPMENT OPERATORS AND RELATED
69,100 44,600 28,800
94,800
21,300
EDUCATION, LAW AND SOCIAL, COMMUNITY AND GOVERNMENT SERVICES 73,900
30,400
HEALTH 44,800 NATURAL AND APPLIED SCIENCES AND RELATED
43,200
ART, CULTURE, RECREATION AND SPORT 17,700 MANUFACTURING AND UTILITIES 26,200 NATURAL RESOURCES, AGRICULTURE AND RELATED PRODUCTION
the outlook notes that having enough trained workers in order to meet the province’s needs will be a challenge. Population growth in B.C. is steadily decreasing, and the labour force participation rate is set to drop from 65 per cent to 59 per cent within ten years. While Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland account for 81 per cent of the predicted job openings, the Thompson–Okanagan will see 96,100 positions created by 2027. It is expected that u employment in the region will increase by one per cent au year by that period as well. Of those jobs, 74 percent will
32,300 15,000 500
11,400 / 300 0
Source: British Columbia Labour Market Outlook 2017 Edition
34,700
50,000
100,000
150,000
200,000
Replacement Expansion
replace retirees and 26 percent will be generated by economic growth. Within the Thompson–Okanagan, the three areas expected to see the most growth are other retail trade, with 25,360 job openings, construction, with 25,550 job openings, and food and drink services, with 16,860 job openings. Nursing and residential care is also expected to see a surge, with 8,770 job openings between now and 2027. Though other retail trade, which is defined as non-specialized stores, and construction top the list for Kamloops and the surrounding area, the same can’t
be said for the whole province. Across B.C., the two sectors expected to see the most job openings are health care and social assistance, and professional, scientific and technical services. For those with a bachelor’s,degree, graduate degree or first-time-professional degrees, financial auditors and accountants, information systems analysts and consultants, and computer programmers and interactive media developers will be the top three demanded occupations over the next decade. These increases in job
openings in information and technology fields follow another trend outlined in the report as well, automation. While it is predicted that 42 per cent of the Canadian labour force is at risk because of automation, only 27 per cent of the 917,000 jobs created here in B.C. are high automation risk occupations. Overall, the report claims that the next generation of British Columbians entering the workforce want careers, not jobs. Today’s students are less likely to go to school for a specific job and instead are learning to prepare for a career path, according to the report.
For some of the major occupational groups, job openings are a result of not only the make-up of the workforce but also changes in productivity. For example, about 98 percent of the job openings in the Manufacturing and Utilities occupations will be to replace existing workers. Manufacturing will continue to grow, creating the need for new workers, but increased automation in this sector means that there will be very few net new jobs created. This same situation is occurring with the Natural Resources, Agriculture and Related Production occupations. The need to replace workers will account for just over half of the total job openings in three occupational groups: Art, Culture, Recreation and Sport Occupations (54%); Health Occupations (56%); and
u
Natural and Applied Sciences and Related Occupations (57%).
Student union plans to take petition to TRU board of governors
Detailed labour market outlooks for selected occupational groups are available on WorkBC.ca/industry.
CONTINUED (COVER) Though TRUSU has increased its campaigning in the last few weeks before it anticipates the release of the contract, the students’ union has been collecting petitions as part of their Hungry for Choice campaign since Sept. 21. The collection of petitions is still ongoing and isn’t expected to wrap up until Dec. 8, when TRUSU plans to present the petitions to TRU’s board of governors, Gilbert said. “We will be presenting to the board of governors on Dec. 8th,” Gilbert said. “I really hope that TRU hears the voices of its community. It’s really important that TRU’s administration and leadership listen to these voices and these calls to action.”
The Hungry for Choice campaign began almost two years ago after TRUSU’s budget consultation found that over half of students were dissatisfied with the quality of their food service. As of this year’s budget consultation survey, 59 per cent of students are dissatisfied with TRU’s food service. Aramark Corporation runs almost all food service outlets on campus. Though TRUSU wants to make sure that students have a say in food services provided across campus, Gilbert said the Hungry for Choice campaign and the FOI request aren’t about Aramark. “We are not making this about Aramark. All we are saying is that we would like to be consulted,” she said. “Whether it’s renewing the current food service contract or looking for a different food
service provider, we’re not making it about that – we just want to have a consultation.” Though TRUSU believes the contract’s release will give them the opportunity to be on equal ground when consulting with administration, they expect the document to be heavily redacted. Either way, Gilbert hopes that TRUSU’s Dec. 8 presentation will encourage TRU to discuss options with its community. “We have a very unique opportunity right now,” Gilbert said. “The TRU food service contract is expiring sometime in the summer of 2018 and all we are asking TRU is that when it comes time to renew that food service contract, whether it is renewing that contract or looking for a new food service contract, that you consult the campus community.”
When it Comes to Addiction... THE FIRST STEP IS ASKING FOR HELP
Private Medical Detox is a fee-for-service alcohol and opiate homedetox program. If you are 19 years of age or older and would prefer not to detox in a treatment centre, detox unit or other facility-type setting, call us today. Our health care team can provide you with the privacy that you want and the 24-hour medical supervision and nursing care services you may need to help you with the recovery process.
888-512-2616 privatemedicaldetox.com
BRITISH COLUMBIA LABOUR MARKET OUTLOOK: 2017 EDITION
WWW.TRUOMEGA.CA
3
OPINION
Be careful navigating the winter roads to come Justin Moore
CONTRIBUTOR Ω The snow is falling and people are setting up holiday decorations, visiting family members and snuggling up to warm fires. Some with car keys in hand, however, are becoming anxious and stressed. Winter weather for drivers can be dangerous, but can be a little safer if precautions are taken. According to ICBC, crashes and incidents increased by 10 per cent in the Southern Interior last winter, and if drivers are not prepared for less-than-ideal conditions, the results can be deadly. Timing is the crucial first step in countering these occurrences. Drivers should account for the extra time required to get to their destinations. Plan ahead and allow yourself extra time to travel so you can stay focused on the road and not worry about being late for work. Checking road conditions and closures through websites
like Drive BC is also a good idea and important habit to get into during the season. For immediate updates, Drive BC’s Twitter feeds report frequently on highway conditions. Winter tires with adequate tread will help keep your vehicle on the road. A functional defrost and low temperature windshield washer fluid will help keep your windows clear. You can also clean your headlights to help with visibility for late night driving. Also consider keeping nonperishable snacks, plenty of water, a warm blanket, extra hats, gloves and socks in your vehicle in case you become stuck or stranded on the road. Don’t drive if you don’t feel comfortable commuting in the winter conditions. Constantly assess your own abilities and concerns with winter driving and consider alternative methods of transportation if you don’t feel comfortable making the trek on your own. Poor visibility, icy roads and unexpected changes can be stressful situations for most. Other methods of
Neal Herbert/NPS (Creative Commons)
transport, such as public transit, taxi service or carpooling with someone more confident and outfitted are options to consider.
Shifting into a winter driving mindset quickly and effectively will help to keep you and your vehicle safe in the months to
come. Using and sharing online resources like ICBC and Drive BC help to create safer and responsible roads this holiday season.
Cariboo Student Newspaper Society Notice of Annual General Meeting Thursday, November 30, 5:00 p.m. Thompson Rivers University Old Main, room OM 2691
Ω
All members of the society in good standing are welcome to attend. Write editor@truomega.ca for more information.
THE OMEGA STUDENT NEWSPAPER • PUBLISHED SINCE NOVEMBER 27,1991
Publisher and Board
Cariboo Student Newspaper Society TRU Campus, Old Main, OM2691 805 TRU Way, Kamloops, B.C. V2C 0C8 Phone: 250-828-5069 Advertising inquiries: www.truomega.ca/advertise or email accounts@truomega.ca
Publishing Board EDITOR-IN-CHIEF INDUSTRY REP FACULTY REP STUDENT REP STUDENT REP STUDENT REP
Sean Brady Christopher Foulds Charles Hays Jennifer Will Siddhesh Rajam Vacant
Letters Policy
Literary and visual submissions are welcomed. All submissions are subject to editing for brevity, taste and legality. The Omega will attempt to publish each letter received, barring time and space constraints. The editor will take care not to change the intention or tone of submissions, but will not publish material deemed to exhibit sexism, racism or homophobia. Letters for publication must include the writer’s name (for publication) and contact details (not for publication). The Omega reserves the right not to publish any letter or submitted material. Opinions expressed in any section with an “Opinion” label do not represent those of The Omega, the Cariboo Student Newspaper Society, its Board of Directors or its staff. Opinions belong only to those who have signed them.
Editorial Staff
Editor-in-Chief Sean Brady
News Editor Jennifer Will
Arts Editor Cailyn Mocci
Sports Editor Alvin Mutandiro Staff Writers Wade Tomko
Photographer Juan Cabrejo
Copy Editor Laurie Mackie Distribution Jonathan Malloy
Contributors Justin Moore
c fb.me/truomega d @TRU_Omega
f instagr.am/truomega Õ www.TRUOmega.ca
All material in this publication is copyright The Omega except where otherwise noted and may not be reproduced without the expressed consent of the publisher.
A B Γ Δ Ε Ζ Η Θ Ι Κ Λ Μ Ν Ξ Ο Π Ρ Σ Τ Υ Φ Χ Ψ Ω
CONTRIBUTE
WRITE FOR US! We’re always looking for contributors. If you’re interested in writing for us, make sure you check out our contributor guidelines found at:
truomega.ca/contribute First timer? Don’t worry – no experience is necessary and we’ll give you as much help as you need. If you’re ready to get started, just email one of our section editors and pitch your story: News: news@truomega.ca Arts: arts@truomega.ca Sports: sports@truomega.ca Or write the editor at: editor@truomega.ca
4
NEWS
NOVEMBER 29, 2017
TRU student holding 5K run in memory of her brother Sean Brady
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ω Payton Comazzetto has always wanted to do something in memory of her brother Brennan. He was killed 18 years ago when he was just 10 years old, struck by a drunk driver while riding his bike. Comazzetto has fond memories of her brother, especially around Christmas time, remembering the “wild” Christmas outfits her mother used to dress them in. “We did everything together. He brought me along for everything. I was always his tag-along. If he was playing with his friends, I came with him,” she said. Comazzetto is now in her final
year of a bachelor of arts degree, and as part of a service learning course she’s taking, had a chance to plan and host an event. Seeing this as an opportunity to do something in memory of her brother, and remembering her brother’s fondness for Christmas, Comazzetto will host Brennan’s Ugly Sweater Run on Dec. 3. The run is a 5 k.m. walk or run held at Rainbow’s Roost in Westsyde. The community event will kick off at 10 a.m. and requires a minimum donation of $10. Proceeds will go to the Boys & Girls Club of Kamloops’ Power Start program, which gets kids to school early for a nutritious, healthy breakfast and other activities to help them get a healthy start on the day. Comazzetto, who also helps
organize the kids 1K mini-boogie part of Boogie the Bridge, also has the help of sponsors Synergy Counselling and Associates, Wesco Distribution and Kamloops Electric Motor. She’s also got the support of her family and Jo Berry of Runclub Kamloops. While her time as a BA student is almost up, Comazzetto has more education planned for her future, hoping to study education before earning a master’s degree in counselling, focusing on children who have experienced trauma. Those interested in donning their ugliest Christmas sweater and joining Comazzetto for Sunday’s run can visit the Facebook page Brennan's Ugly Sweater Run for more information on how to register.
Payton and Brennan Comazzetto (Submitted)
Opportunities to give back to this winter break Jennifer Will
NEWS EDITOR Ω The school year is a crazy, busy and hectic period for a lot of students. It’s a time when bank accounts run low and energy levels run even lower. However, there is a magical time. The streets are blanketed with snow and houses are decorated from head to toe in twinkling lights. It’s known as Christmas break. During this special time of the year, students have a chance to enjoy time with their families and forget about school for a couple of weeks. With classes ending particularly early this year on Dec. 1, it leaves some room for students to do something fulfilling and fun this holiday season. Here are the top eight fun and festive places you can volunteer this winter break.
1. BC SPCA
What better way to warm your heart and lift your spirits after a long and stressful semester? Puppies, kitties and rabbits will do that and the SPCA has them all. They are currently looking
for people to foster animals and volunteer at their downtown location. You can visit their website at spca.bc.ca/locations/kamloops to apply.
2. Snow Angels
Snow Angels is a program that matches you with a senior in your area who needs their driveway and sidewalk cleared of snow. Volunteers have 24 hours to clear the snow when needed and, as an added bonus to your good deed, you will receive a free Domino’s Pizza coupon. If you are interested in helping out someone in your neighbourhood, you can call Grace LaBossiere at 250-372-8313.
3. Snow Removal at the hospice
The Kamloops Hospice Association in Sahali is also looking for people to help remove snow from walkways, driveways and sidewalks that line their property. Volunteers are welcome to have hot tea, coffee or hot chocolate. It you are interested you can call Pamela Young at 250-372-1336.
4. Operation Red Nose
Operation Red Nose is a service that looks to get everyone home
safe after Christmas celebrations. Volunteers are needed to drive partiers home in their own vehicles and Red Nose still requires 155 more drivers to reach their goal of 250 volunteers this year. Apply if you are over 21, have a valid Class 5 driver's licence and a good driving record. Escort drivers, who bring the volunteer team to the call location and follow the client vehicle home must be over 19, have a valid class 5 driver's licence and access to a vehicle. Fuel costs are reimbursed. They are also looking for navigators 19 and over. No driver's licence is required to be a navigator. Phone operators, dispatchers, promotion workers and refreshment overseers are also needed. Help is wanted on Dec 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 26, 28, 29, 30 and 31. If you want to be a part of the volunteer team you can contact coordinator Katie Klassen at 250-320-0650 or 250-828-3346.
5. New Life Kamloops
Volunteering at a soup kitchen is a classic around the Christmas season. New Life Community in Kamloops is looking for volunteer
kitchen workers on any day of the week. Volunteers will help prepare lunch, kitchen clean up, perform prep work and serve meals. They are also looking for volunteers in a variety of other areas; the dining room, working at Thrift City and in their Outreach Clothing Room, depending on your skillset. You can call 250-434-9898 or email volunteer@newlifekamloops.ca to start serving up some festive cheer.
6. Out of the Cold
St. Paul’s Cathedral is looking for volunteers on Wednesdays and Sundays to assist shift captains with members of the community who seek food and shelter. The volunteers will work with people who may be homeless, are dealing with substance abuse, have mental health concerns or are simply down on their luck. Shifts run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. and 12 a.m. to 7 a.m. If you’re interested, call Mark Hyslop at 778-362-8977 or 250-315-3350 or email him at mark_g_hyslop@hotmail.com.
7. Camp Out for Homeless Youth
Domino's Pizza and the United Way have teamed up to create a camp-out on Dec. 15 to support homeless youth without a warm place to sleep at night. They are looking for 12 volunteers to hand out pizza, handle cash and hold signs at the Domino's on the North Shore. They are looking for six volunteers between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. and another six between 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Katherine McParland at 250-320-7837. You can also get involved in this event by camping out, pledging for someone else to camp out, or purchasing a $10 Hawaiian, Cheese, or Pepperoni pizza from Domino's using the online order code YOUTH.
8. Raise money for your charity of choice
There are many great organizations out there who need financial support through donations. As a student, you may not be able to make a donation yourself but pick a charity that speaks to you and find some fun ways to raise some money this holiday season.
TRUSU installs gender-inclusive bathroom sign Jennifer Will
NEWS EDITOR Ω The TRU Student Union is trying to make things a lot easier and stress-free for transgender and non-binary students with the installation of a new gender-neutral washroom sign in the TRUSU building. Ashton Wright, the vice president of the TRUSU Pride Club, said putting up the new washroom sign is a small step towards more inclusivity. “We’re really stoked on it, we’re really happy. We’re really happy to see that TRUSU took the initiative to be able to say that we are inclusive, we are a more inclusive campus as a
whole,” Wright said. The new sign for the washroom was put up on Transgender Day of Remembrance, Nov. 20. “It just gives an option to the non-binary and trans folk who do come to our school. It allows them to have a safe space to go pee, which apparently is an issue – which is a little bit ridiculous. I really wish we didn’t have to have gender-neutral washrooms and could just live in a world where everyone is decent,” Wright said. Although the gender-neutral sign is a step in the right direction, Wright said there is still a lot of work that can be done to make all students feel safe. “I really hope that it does spark a lot of inclusivity and
encourages a current update on the system that is currently in place. I feel like there are a lot of people and a lot of students that get left out in the old system, so I really hope that they see this as a chance to update,” Wright said. Wright said that simple things like giving other people respect and not being a bad person in general could make a big difference in the atmosphere on campus. “I really hope that people can respect other people’s pronouns and really respect other people’s expression of gender, however they want to see themselves. I hope this inspires a safe, inclusive environment on campus,” Wright said. Wright adds that the Pride
The new bathroom sign installed in the TRUSU building. (Juan Cabrejo/Ω)
Club will holding workshops about gender, consent and a
variety of other topics in the upcoming semester.
WWW.TRUOMEGA.CA
NEWS
5
Two one-acts bring southern comedy to campus Cailyn Mocci
ARTS EDITOR Ω TRU Actors Workshop Theatre brought comedy and nostalgia to the opening night of “Laundry and Bourbon” and “Lone Star.” The night featured the two one-act plays written by James McLure and directed by TRU theatre faculty member Robin Nichol. Both plays take place in Maynard, Texas, in the summer of 1973. While both Laundry and Bourbon and Lone Star has some character overlap, new sides of each are seen and from different perspectives. Elizabeth’s (Brittney Martens) annoyance with her husband Roy (Wyatt Purcha), for example. The audience is shown not only what she perceives as his lack of motivation since his return from the Vietnam War two years earlier, but also Roy’s struggle from his own point of view. While the topics addressed in the plays seem tough and somber, both performances are hilarious and had the audience laughing at their antics. The show opened with Laundry and Bourbon, a light comedic introduction to Elizabeth Caulder, Hattie Dealing (Ashley Hiibner)
Tensions rise between Amy-Lee, Hattie and Elizabeth in "Laundry and Bourbon." (Cailyn Mocci/The Omega) and the pretentious Amy Lee Fullernoy (Shannon Cooper). This act featured Elizabeth and Hattie chatting and sharing a drink on Elizabeth’s back porch when a pain from their past shows up with ulterior motives. Amy Lee is a god-fearing Baptist with a secret love to gossip. The women go back and forth with catty humor and sarcasm, while reminiscing about the good ol’ days. Laundry and Bourbon is full of subtle jabs at each other and
explosions of Hattie’s firecracker-like nature. Lone Star features the rough and tumble Roy Caulder, Elizabeth’s husband, and his dim-witted little brother Ray (Brendan Law). The comedy can easily be described as “boy humor” with insults and punches hurled from love. A naïve Cletis (Zack Fernstrom), the new owner of his father’s warehouse store and husband of Amy Lee, stirs up trouble with the Caulder boys. Every character in both plays is
so different that there is never a dull moment from. Viewers laugh and feel for all the characters in their day to day struggles. While it is set in a time where most students haven’t lived, the troubles and shortcomings of the characters are still relatable. You may not have a friend who is a stay at home mom, but chances are you have a fiery Hattie in your life, a pretentious Amy Lee to brag about her riches, or a naïve Cletis who always seems to run into trouble.
Music as the spice of life: Coco reviewed Jonathan Malloy FILM CRITIC Ω
Disney Pixar’s newest film is an ode to magic. From the grandiose spectacle of neon colours that explode on the screen to the tenderness of a family reunion, directors Lee Unkrich and Adrian Molina created a film that brims with wonder. Miguel (Anthony Gonzalez) must return home from the land of the dead to pursue his love of music all while attempting to meet his hero, the revered star Ernesto de la Cruz (Benjamin Bratt). The formulaic story structure plays out almost exactly as one would expect. The well-trodden Disney formula still works its magic. Yet it is in the tiny character moments where the writing really seems to
have hit its mark. The large cast of characters, the majority being the living or deceased members of Miguel’s shoe maker family, seems to suggest an interesting backstory that, through intelligent staging and moments, implies lifelong ties that only family can muster. These moments are aided, if not made, by incredible modelling and animation. The photo-realistic images may be outdated in several years by advancing technology, but at this moment Coco stands in as the most detailed 3D animation ever assembled. While the film’s larger than life (or should I say death?) spectacles come across as visual splendour, it is in the intricate and lingering shots of daily life that stick out as personal favourites. Be on the lookout for a pair of shot glasses and try to imagine how many man-hours
that much detail would have necessitated. The musicality of the film is central to the plot and is well executed from touching ballads to a spirited salsa inspired tune that aids in the amplified tension of one late scene. While only having five separate songs throughout the film, each is varied enough to ensure that the film never focuses too much on either music or family. Each strikes a firm balance that works really well in tandem with the themes of the film. Potentially Pixar’s best film this decade, it’s hard not to fall in love with the splendour of the movie. It’s warm hug of a visual shell cracks wide open with all of the family heartache one could handle in a surprisingly subversive and well crafted animated masterwork.
Christmas music for people who hate Christmas music Sia releases an unlikely Christmas album to rejoice over the holiday season Cailyn Mocci
ARTS EDITOR Ω Australian powerhouse Sia dropped her first Christmas album, “Everyday is Christmas,” and it’s all you’ll want to listen to this holiday season. She’s revamped Christmas music without the usual assault of jingle bells and kept just a sprinkle of peppermint to keep with the season. Christmas music has been a debate for years. When is too early? Should it be played at all?
Speaking as someone who adores Christmas, I think it’s never too early, and I will be blasting it at all hours of the day. “Everyday is Christmas” is welcomed with open arms into my Christmas music collection with its non-traditional take on songs about Santa Claus and elves. “Everyday is Christmas” doesn’t act as a grab bag of seasonal troupes, but rather the upbeat tunes and soulful vocals you’d expect from Sia and with a sprinkle of holiday spirit. With limited twinkly music and the Mariah Carey-like high notes
you won’t mind an overly festive friend playing this album after Dec. 25. The album kicks off with a very obvious Christmas tune with “Santa’s Coming for Us.” This song is reminiscent of the carol “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” an overplayed classic in desperate need of a revamp. Sia gives us what we need whether we knew it or not. While obviously Christmas-y, even the Grinch wouldn’t be able to stop his toe from tapping to these cheerful and repetitive lyrics. The album is a beautiful blend
of upbeat beats and emotional ballads. “Snowman”, with its soft piano riffs and slight jazz vibe, represents the type of lovesick ballad for which Sia is best known. It’s perfect for late night relaxing while watching snow blanket the roads. Sia hits the perfect mix of cheerful, upbeat Christmas tunes to add to our gift-wrapping playlist, with soft, romantic ballads with her classic soulful lyrics. After a decade of quirky pop vocals, Sia takes on Christmas music and revamps the classics to put Mariah Carey to shame.
Upcoming Events Films for Change: In Pursuit of Silence Nov. 29 7 to 9 p.m., CT Alumni Theatre TRU’s Sustainability Office hosts a screening of the documentary called In Pursuit of Silence. The film is a meditative exploration of our relationship with silence, sound and the impact of noise on our lives. Live at TRU series: Lizzy Hoyt Dec. 7 12:30 to 1:30, CT Alumni Theatre Canadian singersongwriter and multiinstrumentalist Lizzy Hoyt brings to town her award winning compositions, which are rooted in folk and Celtic. A Christmas Carol – Western Canada Theatre Nov. 30 to Dec. 12 Various times, Sagebrush Theatre On a fateful Christmas Eve in Victorian London, the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge is made to see the error of his ways through a timely visit by three spirits… and one very unhappy ghost. A classic for all times and all ages, here in a brand-new theatrical version specially created for WCT audiences. Abundant Bodies @ Kamloops Hot Yoga Nov. 30 to Dec. 14 7 to 8 p.m., Kamloops Hot Yoga Enjoy a compassionate and non-judgmental space for folks to explore the physical postures of yoga, with a focus on using larger bodies to increase flexibility, strength and peace of mind. Shattered Blue @ Blue Grotto Dec. 1 & 2 9 p.m., Blue Grotto Enjoy the sounds of Shattered Blue’s live music at the Blue Grotto.
6
NEWS
NOVEMBER 29, 2017
Trans Mountain makes good on its commitment, donating $500,000 over 20 years as bursaries Cailyn Mocci
ARTS EDITOR Ω In 2015, Kinder Morgan pledged that if its Trans Mountain pipeline project was approved, it would donate $500,000 to the university over 20 years in the form of bursaries. At the TRU Foundation awards ceremony last night, the company made good on its promise. “This investment by Trans
Mountain Expansion Project will support endowment in a wide range of programs and aligns with TRU’s commitment to student success and increasing research capacity,” said TRU president Alan Shaver. TRU and Trans Mountain had previously signed a “community benefit agreement” which called for a contribution of $500,000 to the university for the programs previously mentioned. Trans Mountain has also offered
cash to a number of other municipalities and universities along the pipeline route, including $700,000 to the City of Kamloops, all on the condition that the pipeline is approved. The Trans Mountain Expansion Project and Kinder Morgan have a history with TRU and have donated money and equipment to the trades programs over the years. “We have built a strong partnership with TRU throughout our many years of working together on
education programs and community initiatives.” said Kinder Morgan Canada chief operating officer Hugh Harden. The pipeline company’s contribution will be split between the school of trades, the faculty of education and social work and the faculty of science. Among the donations, students in the trades will be receiving the largest share of the company’s contribution with $200,000. Students will be granted $10,000 annually,
in bursaries in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $4,000 based on financial need and GPA. Preference will be given to students from Trans Mountain Pipeline communities. “As part of our community benefit program, which aims to provide direct benefits to local communities along our pipeline, we are very proud to invest in education and training opportunities for students in B.C.’s Interior,” Harden said.
Students receive financial support at foundation event
WWW.TRUOMEGA.CA
NEWS
7
Money to make it work A total of 610 students received financial support in the form of bursaries and scholarships at a TRU Foundation awards event on Thursday, Nov. 23. Recipients included The Omega's own Cailyn Mocci (opposite page, bottom right). Photos Juan Cabrejo
Think TRU Law At TRU Law in Kamloops, you will have the opportunity to receive a dynamic legal education while continuing to learn within the stunning natural beauty of the BC Interior. TRU’s three-year Juris Doctor (JD) program offers a well-established curriculum taught by an outstanding group of legal professionals, in state-of-the-art facilities as well as experiential learning environments.
Natalie Paul earned her BA in Psychology from TRU in 2011 and is part of the TRU Law class of 2018. She is the managing editor of the Canadian Journal of Comparative and Contemporary Law, published by TRU Law, and she is also a member of the TRU Animal Law Association.
BY THE NUMBERS $672,603 +$50,000 handed out at the event
more than last year
30 new awards available to students since last year, 20 of them endowed
MILLION raised last year for students, buildings and research on campus
since April 1
822 students since April 1 this year
$1,085,995 $4.4 given by the foundation
Apply now MC00123120
610 students received bursaries and scholarships
I chose TRU Law because, being from Kamloops, it was close to home and had a positive reputation within the community. My father, local lawyer David Paul, Q.C., also encouraged me to choose TRU Law. Students receive an excellent legal education and are also provided with opportunities to enhance their legal skills by participating in a variety of experiential activities, such as working on the Canadian Journal of Comparative and Contemporary Law and participating in competitive moots.�
Applications for September 2018 accepted until February 10, 2018
tru.ca/thinktrulaw
8
NEWS
NOVEMBER 29, 2017
▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼▼
2017 SANTA CLAUS PARADE Photos from the Nov. 25 event, featuring TRU staff, students and athletes. Juan Cabrejo/The Omega
WWW.TRUOMEGA.CA
NEWS
9
10
COMICS & PUZZLES
SUDOKUBREAK 3 6
7
5
2
5
9 1
8
3
5
4
2
9
7
1
8
2
6 8 4
6 7
2
5 8
NOVEMBER 29, 2017
WWW.TRUOMEGA.CA
11
SPORTS
Bison and wolves trade wins and losses Alvin Mutandiro
SPORTS EDITOR Ω The WolfPack women’s volleyball team went 1-1 against the University of Manitoba Bison in two intense and exciting five-set thrillers. The women beat the Bison 3 sets to 2 on Nov. 24 at the Warner Rentals Court at the Tournament Capital Centre in Kamloops. The ’Pack started the game with strength and confidence, winning the first set 25-19. Manitoba rebounded however, and won the second set 25-16. TRU started the third set in similar fashion to the first and won 25-20. The Bison, not willing to be outdone, won the fourth set 32-30 in a fiercely contested match.TRU managed to close the game out winning the fifth set 15-9. Top performers for the WolfPack were Yevgeniya Nyukhalova, (firstyear, outside hitter, Severodonetsk, Ukraine) with 30 kills in 77 swings, 10 digs and 2 block assists, Rachel Windhorst, (fourth-year, outside hitter, Surrey, BC) 21 kills in 63 chances, 3 service aces, 14 digs, 4 block assists. TRU must have wanted to carry the momentum built from this game into the second match-up but lost out in a topsy turvy contest 3 sets to 2 on Nov. 25 which was gain played at the Warner Rentals Court.. Unlike the game that had been played 24 hours before, TRU seemed in control of the contest after winning the first two sets 25-23, 25-21 respectively.
Women's volleyball coach Chad Grimm giving instruction to his squad over the weekend. (TRU Athletics)
In the third set TRU came close to victory with the game tied at 22 all but unfortunately, the ’Pack could not close the game out. What seemed like a routine victory turned instead into a massive collapse. The Bison won the third, fourth and fifth sets, 25-22, 25-17, 15-10. It was a shocking development that left the crowd silenced. With each service, the ’Pack seemed to grow increasingly
fatigued unlike the Bison who seemed to become more energized. Despite the loss TRU did have some good performances. Rachel Windhorst (fourth-year, outside hitter, Surrey, BC) had 21 kills in 65 swings, 16 digs and one service ace and Yevgeniya Nyukhalova (firstyear, outside hitter, Severodonetsk, Ukraine) had 19 kills in 66 swings, 16 digs and one solo block. TRU head coach Chad Grimm spoke to The Omega following
the contest and expressed his belief that fatigue played a part in the result but still gave credit to Manitoba. He lamented the fact his ladies couldn’t close the game out in the third when the teams were tied at 22 all. Coach Grimm also spoke about the importance of mental strength and focus, “It’s difficult finding that mental focus for such a long period of time for two nights in a row,” he said.
On how his team could improve: “It’s got to be in practice,” Grimm continued, “When we have more depth it will take the pressure off, but right now that's the situation we are in, so we have to make the best of it.” After this weekend’s results TRU is 5-5. Ironically, so are the Bison. It’s a fitting outcome for two teams who just split a pair of five setters. —with files from TRU Athletics
‘Pack women sweep Mount Royal on the road Alvin Mutandiro
SPORTS EDITOR Ω The WolfPack women’s basketball team rebounded from back-toback losses to sweep Mount Royal on the road over the weekend. The TRU women’s basketball team beat the Mount Royal University Cougars 67-59, Nov. 24 at Kenyon Court, Calgary, Alta. It was a massive victory for TRU as it ended a four-game losing streak. TRU managed to outscored Mount Royal in the second and third quarter after being outscored in the first and fourth quarter. TRU kept the ball well, had 13 turnovers all game in comparison to Mount Royal’s 21. Top scorers for TRU were Michelle Bos, (fourth-year guard, Surrey, BC) who had 19 points, 7 rebounds and 2 steals, Leilani Carney, (third-year guard, Burnaby,BC) 11 points and 2 rebounds and Emma Piggin had 8 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists. TRU was able to beat Mount Royal again, this time in a closer affair, 70-64 on Nov.25 at Kenyon Court, Calgary, Alberta. The victory made it a clean sweep for the ’Pack team, a much-needed change in fortunes after being swept by the Lethbridge
Pronghorns the previous weekend. The ’Pack had a massive lead after the first quarter, 22-6 and led 40-19 at the halftime break. Surprisingly TRU had more turnovers, 16 to Mount Royal’s 10. Mount Royal also outscored TRU 46-30 in the second half despite that TRU was able to secure a sixpoint victory. For the second game in a row Michelle Bos, (fourth-year guard, Surrey, BC), top scored with 17 points and 8 rebounds, Kanesha Reeves, (fourth-year guard, Burnaby, BC), 14 points, 5 rebounds and Leilani Carney, (third-year, guard, Burnaby, BC) had 12 points and 9 rebounds. “Mount Royal showed incredible heart coming back in the second half,” said head Coach Scott Reeves when he spoke with TRU athletics. “We took the lead. I’m thankful we didn’t lose our composure. We made shots when we needed to, but we need to have a much better defensive effort in the second half.” The two victories left the WolfPack team with a 6-4 record whilst Mount Royal are now 0-10. TRU will play two more games before the Christmas break, games where results will be crucial in the long term, if TRU is to feature in the playoffs. —with files from TRU Athletics
Michelle Bos led scoring over the weekend, with 36 points over the weekend. (TRU Athletics)
12
NOVEMBER 29, 2017
THE OMEGA
TRU RECEIVES LESS PER-STUDENT FUNDING THAN THE BC AVERAGE
by
$15
MILLION
PER YEA R that’s enough money to... REDUCE DOMESTIC TUITION FEES
INCREASE THE LIBRA RY BUDGET BY
4x
PROVIDE NEA RLY
7x
THE BURSA RIES AND SCHOLA RSHIPS
or
48% HIRE
180 ASSOCIATE PROFESSORS
IT’S TIME FOR CHANGE! Get more information at:
trusu.ca/fund-the-future /TRUStudentsUnion @TRUSU15 @TRUSU15