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Algonquin Wolves men’s soccer team battles back to earn a draw against Centennial

Driven by resilience, the Algonquin Wolves rally to secure a tie at home
Agrani Tiwari
Photos: Agrani Tiwari
October 8, 2024
Revised: October 8, 2024 8:45pm
Photo: Agrani Tiwari
The Wolves and the Colts fighting hard in the last minutes of the game to get the tie-breaking goal.

In a hard-fought men’s soccer match on home turf, the Algonquin Wolves fought back from a two-goal deficit to secure a 2-2 draw against the Centennial Colts. The game on Oct. 5, showcased the tenacity and resilience that has become synonymous with the Wolves’ style.

Centennial took control early, with Luca Ferrari scoring in the 17th minute, followed by Adonis Botsinis in the 33rd minute, giving the Colts a 2-0 lead.

However, the Wolves quickly responded just a minute later.

Gershom Dupuy, assisted by Jaeden Mercure, found the net to narrow the gap to 2-1. After halftime, Algonquin intensified their attack, and in the 58th minute, Alessandro Vivolo, with a setup from Cristian Aviles-Molina, equalized the score at 2-2.

Reflecting on the game, Wolves goalkeeper Nicholas Parry discussed the team’s strategy.

“We know we have the quality in the team to play the game how we want. In the first half, I don’t know if we necessarily did that, but in the second half, we really started to dominate. We’re happy with how the game went,” he said after the game.

Oscar Forward, noted the physical toll the match took, especially given that the Wolves had played a challenging game against the Seneca Sting the previous night.

“It was a tough game because we were out here last night playing a big game as well. The legs were a bit tired, mentally and physically,” he said. He added that despite the challenges, the Wolves fought back, embodying the team’s never-give-up attitude.

The Wolves’ intensity was evident on the field, with several players receiving yellow cards. Undeterred, they drew on the support of alumni in the crowd, including Christian Hoefler, a former player from 2002.

Christian Hoefler an alumnus and a part of the 2002 Algonquin Thunder, the National Soccer Championship gold-winning team came to cheer on Algonquin Wolves with his son Christian Hoefler.
Christian Hoefler an alumnus and a part of the 2002 Algonquin Thunder, the National Soccer Championship gold-winning team came to cheer on Algonquin Wolves with his son Christian Hoefler. Photo credit: Agrani Tiwari

“This is our Algonquin trend. We never give up,” Hoefler said, expressing pride in the team’s performance. “There’s a lot of history here, from Thunder to the Wolves. Once some of the players saw us in the crowd, they definitely increased their energy,” he added.

Parry summed up the team’s focus as they look ahead. “We’ve got to take six points in our next two games, finish top of the league, and then earn it into playoffs,” he said.

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Agrani Tiwari

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First Person: Love of cars revs up family bonds

Cars can transport us from point A to point B, but they can also connect us with others along the way
Emmet Paradis
Photos: Emmet Paradis
October 8, 2024
Revised: October 8, 2024 11:55am
Photo: Emmet Paradis
My grandfather, Pierre, and me in front of his 2019 Mercedes SL 550 before a car meet on Thursday, Oct. 3.

The rumble of my grandfather’s brand-new Mercedes SL 550 engine made me question why I had waited so long to get my license. Although I was a new driver, he was eager for me to take his car for a spin. As he handed me the keys, I realized my obsession with cars had truly begun. But I wouldn’t be alone: I was joining a shared passion.

My family’s love of cars has been constant through generations. My paternal grandfather, Pierre, grew up with three older brothers who owned garages. This passion continued with my father, Alain, who was raised around his dad’s impressive collection of Porsches, Audis, Corvettes and other prized vehicles.

Pierre’s trust in young drivers was clear; he taught every family member to drive his Audi S7, eager to share his passion for fine cars.

On my mother’s side, her father, Yves, was known for his obsessive car care, refusing to let anyone touch his prized possession and cleaning it daily.

It’s no surprise that the legacy has continued with me, finding my interest in cars and even cleaning them as a job.

When I first turned on my grandfather’s Mercedes, that moment sparked a passion that would become my favourite hobby. But it was at my very first car meet, the weekly meet in the Orléans Fallingbrook Shopping Centre parking lot, that I heard a variety of engine sounds and connected with a community of car enthusiasts.

Nicolas Toscano, a videographer and car enthusiast who attends the weekly Orléans car meet, shares a similar story.

“The car community is my Thursday and Friday night,” said Toscano. “I’m not a big fan of going out to clubs and losing my hearing to some loud music. I much prefer to go lose my hearing to a loud-cammed V8 with catless headers.”

It was at the local meet, where I brought my grandfather’s Mercedes, that Toscano and I first connected over our families’ shared love for cars.

“I first became interested in cars at a very young age via my father. He wasn’t a big car guy, but he had very nice cars,” said Toscano. “To me, at that age, it was just my dad’s car, and it was normal. But as I got older, I noticed how people reacted to his car and respected what it symbolized.”

Toscano added that sharing this passion has brought them closer. “I remember being really young and riding passenger in my dad’s car and he would move lanes to get around slower cars and I would tell him ‘lane clear!’ and he would speed down the road,” he said. “A really cute core memory.”

From a father’s perspective, Pablo Coffey, my best friend Isabella’s dad, shares the same passion for cars as his son, Simon. Watching Simon appreciate vehicles brings back childhood memories and makes Pablo feel like a kid again.

“Not a day goes by that we don’t engage in multiple chats about cars and how much we love them,” said Coffey.

This passion has created a bridge across generations and formed lasting bonds. In a world that can feel divided, the sound of an engine and the shine of a cherished car show us that shared passions bring people together.

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First Person: Living alone has shown me silence has its own rhythm

After moving to Canada I faced the unexpected challenge of living by myself for the first time. Could my studio apartment become a sanctuary where I'd learn to navigate life on my own terms?
Agrani Tiwari
Photos: Steven Dalloo
October 8, 2024
Revised: October 8, 2024 11:56am
Photo: Steven Dalloo
"Settling into the quiet rhythm of my studio, I realized that this little space held a new kind of freedom," writes the author. "Alone, I could shape my life in ways I'd never imagined—learning, adjusting, and finding comfort in the solitude."

The first time I closed the door to my new place on Sept. 3, the silence felt heavier than I expected. No sounds of family in the background, no roommates rustling about. Just me.

Standing in the middle of my small living room in a studio apartment in Ottawa west, I looked around at the space and realized that everything here was now my responsibility. If the dishes piled up, that was on me. If something broke, it was my problem to fix. It was strange, but it was also thrilling—a sort of test to see how well I could manage being on my own.

Living alone for the first time was exciting but intimidating in a way I hadn’t fully prepared for.

I come from a large family in India, where many extended family members live together. I have always lived in a big house surrounded by people. In fact, I’ve always shared a room with my younger sister and my mom. I had never spent a night alone before.

When I moved to Canada back in January of this year, I hadn’t thought I would live alone. I moved into my first apartment where I had roommates. It felt strange to live with strangers, but I was happy and relieved that I had people around me.

Moving into a studio apartment and living alone after eight months in a new country wasn’t the plan. My mother got her visitor visa, and we had arranged for her to stay with me for two months, so I signed a lease for a new place. But a day before her flight, something happened, plans changed and she couldn’t come and that’s how I ended up living alone.

The first night, I was hyper-aware of every sound. The hum of the refrigerator seemed louder than I’d ever noticed before. I swore I heard the creak of footsteps in the hallway. I didn’t sleep much, not out of fear but because the quiet felt so unfamiliar.

But as the days went on, I started to settle into the rhythm of it. I got to choose when I ate, how I organized my things and what music played while I cooked. There was a kind of freedom in it. I realized I could make mistakes and learn without anyone watching. It was just me, figuring it out as I went.

“There was nobody waking you up,” said Neha Chaurasia, my aunt and someone who has lived alone for almost 10 years. “And you become responsible for your life for the very first time.”

But living solo comes with some challenges too, she says.

“Initially, you feel excited because it’s a new world that you are seeing,” she said. “Then sometimes you don’t realize, but the moment you fall sick, even if you have a little bit of cold and fever, that is the time you start missing people the most.”

Chaurasia says solitude can have a way of shaping you.

“Being alone makes you more disciplined, makes you more accountable,” she said.

Her words resonated with me, as I found myself in a similar situation, taking on the full responsibility for my life for the first time.

One night, after a long day of classes and work, I curled up on the couch with a blanket and some tea. For the first time, the quiet didn’t feel lonely. It felt peaceful. I wasn’t missing anyone or anything; I was just enjoying my own company.

Living alone is not always easy, and there are moments when I wish someone were there to share the space with me. But there’s also a deep pride in knowing I’m doing this on my own.

This little place is mine, and for now, that’s more than enough.

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First Person: There is nothing wrong with being a crazy cat lady

While Taylor Swift has given the "cat lady" label lots of love during run up to the U.S. election, I've learned to embrace the title - and myself - all on my own
Stephanie Taylor
Photos: Stephanie Taylor
October 8, 2024
Revised: October 8, 2024 10:01am
Photo: Stephanie Taylor
The author with two of her cats, Cucumber (left) and Strawberry (right). "If I were to grow old surrounded by cats, I would die happy," Taylor writes.

Most nights, I struggle to sleep. I often have too many thoughts running through my brain. My cat, Garfield, could always sense my stress. He would come and lay with me in bed, right on my chest, and purr. His purrs would calm me down instantly and I could finally sleep.

My family got Garfield when I was eight. We named him Garfield despite him not looking like the cartoon cat. He was grey with the brightest green eyes.

Around the time I was moving out of my parent’s place, five years ago, Garfield was getting bullied by one of our other cats. So, I took him with me. During my first month in Ottawa, Garfield and I relied on one another. He learned to trust me, which was shocking as he didn’t like people.

My parents, however, often questioned my bond with Garfield. They didn’t understand it. “He’s just a cat,” my mom would say to me whenever I’d fret over him. But to me, Garfield wasn’t just a cat, he was family.

Garfield and I got a roommate in 2021. During this time we adopted a kitten, an orange tabby named Cucumber. Then in 2023, we adopted Strawberry, a beautiful fluffy cat.

In February of this year, Garfield passed away. I knew it was coming, he had a lot of health issues, but I was still devastated.

Through Garfield, and later Cucumber and Strawberry, I learned how much I loved cats. I love how different their personalities can be, I love how playful and silly they can be, I love their purrs. So, after Garfield died, I knew there was room in my heart for more cats.

I adopted Joel in March, Hen in May and Paulo in June. Now I have five cats, and to many, I am a “crazy cat lady.”

The term “crazy cat lady” is often used to degrade women who are single and have cats instead of children.

Even highly successful women, such as Kamala Harris, aren’t immune to the insult. Recently, a clip from 2021 resurfaced, where JD Vance, Donald Trump’s vice-presidential nominee, called Harris a “cat lady,” implying she can’t make good decisions for the United States because she doesn’t have any biological children.

In my case, I’m 23 and I have never been in a relationship, nor do I care for one. I don’t want children. If I were to grow old surrounded by cats, I would die happy.

However, I didn’t always feel this way. When I was 19, I’d often wonder to myself, “Is there something wrong with me? Was there some aspect of myself that made me unlovable?”

I’d try to meet people through dating apps. I would match with someone, we would talk and then I would get ghosted. Eventually, I realized I wasn’t sad to be ghosted, I was relieved. I stopped using the apps.

With age comes wisdom, and this wisdom has provided me with the knowledge that I like being single. Maybe the only thing “wrong” with me is that I prefer cats over people.

The crazy cat lady label isn’t a one size fits all stereotype.

Fiona Pinard, 40, lives in Ottawa with her four cats and works for the federal government. Pinard, is perfectly okay with the crazy cat lady label. She has even found herself a cat-loving man.

“It’s definitely been a challenge to date as guys think ‘crazy cat lady,’” said Pinard. “Many times I thought of just giving up on dating and being a cat lady spinster, which I was honestly okay with.”

Despite feeling okay with her life, Pinard still found love, but she didn’t erase a part of herself for it.

“I decided to give Tinder another try and found my boyfriend, Patrick,” said Pinard. “He loves the kitty cats and they love him.”

Pinard loves her cats as if they were her own children.

“I miss them when I’m away on trips. They mean a lot to me in that they make me laugh, they comfort me when I’m sick or sad,” said Pinard. “I’m blessed to have them, to love them and give them food, shelter and safety. They’re like my kids.”

Magan Carty, 32, is an Algonquin College alumni. Carty has two cats, Juno and Lenny, who were adopted from a rescue. The two cats, especially Lenny, have some significant trauma.

“It really taught me, because he (Lenny) wasn’t the cat I expected I would get, but it makes me love him even more,” said Carty.

Carty has moved all over Canada with their two cats. Carty said their love for moving makes cats the perfect companions.

“We’re so close, and we’re this package deal,” said Carty. “If they were kids, or a partner, if you want to move across the country for a job, that’s a big ask.”

Carty said home is where the cats are, and I agree. Being with my cats feels like home. No matter where I am, I know I’ll be okay if I have my cats with me.

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Wolves struggle late in 52-13 loss to Durham Lords

A hard-fought physical game ended Algonquin's hope of a 2024 playoff berth
Tyler Reis-Sanford
Photos: Tyler Reis-Sanford
October 7, 2024
Revised: October 7, 2024 4:34pm
Photo: Tyler Reis-Sanford
Wolves fullback Luke Flores and Durham outside centre Josh Dunk had a few choice words for each other in game, but were seen laughing and talking amiable afterwards.

The Algonquin Wolves men’s rugby team fell to 0-4 on Oct. 5 after a hard-fought game against the Durham Lords ended 52-13. The loss means the Wolves will not qualify for the 2024 post season.

Despite the score, the Wolves looked sharp against a fast and physical Lords team, and kept the game within a score for nearly the entire first half.

After turning over the Lords in their own end, the Wolves methodically worked their way down field, but failed to score after a turnover of their own led to a long Durham try. The Wolves answered quickly with a try of their own but failed to convert the extra points.

The Wolves were slow to get the ball out of rucks, allowing Durham to get defensive pressure and force turnovers
The Wolves were slow to get the ball out of rucks, allowing Durham to get defensive pressure and force turnovers Photo credit: Tyler Reis-Sanford

“We were much sharper today, we had a great week of practice,” said Wolves head coach Geoff Tomlinson. “It’s just hard when you have to tackle so much, it gets tiring. They dominated possession and wore us down.”

The Lords were quick to make defensive adjustments and seemed to take advantage of favourable matchups in the backs.

“Their centres made a big difference,” said Tomlinson. “They game planned well and executed on it, so kudos to them.”

After a 2023 season where the Wolves failed to win a game, the team has made significant improvements throughout the season. They opened the 2024 season with an 84-0 loss to defending silver medalists Humber Hawks but have kept their games competitive since with close losses to Conestoga, Seneca and now Durham.

Wolves 8 man Leon Radaelli ran the ball well, delivering powerful hits to Durham defenders, but went down late with a leg injury
The Wolves' Leon Radaelli ran the ball well, delivering powerful hits to Durham defenders, but came out of the game late with a leg injury. Photo credit: Tyler Reis-Sanford

“We absolutely want to get a win,” said Tomlinson. “But more than anything we want to play well.”

A number of players from both sides went down with injuries early in the game, and the physicality boiled over into frustration. The two sides traded hard hits, trash talk and eventually blows late in the second half.

Wolves fullback Luke Flores found himself in the middle of the scrap after delivering a crushing hit on the Durham outside centre.

“It was do or die, but now we have nothing to lose,” said Flores. “We didn’t win any last year, we want it, we’re hungry for it”.

Despite failing to keep their playoff hopes alive, the players seemed to be in good spirits.

“I think it was our best game,” said Flores. “The boys were going all out, we’ve built on a lot and we’re going to keep building and getting better.”

With a full two weeks of rest ahead of them, the Wolves are looking to score their first win against the 3-1 St. Lawrence Surge in Kingston on Oct. 19.

“I know it would mean a lot to them,” said Lindsay Martin, who came out to support her friends who play for the Wolves. “Hopefully there’s no more fights.”

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Women’s soccer Wolves lose 3-1 to top-ranked Centennial

The Wolves are now third in the division standings
James Gray
Photos: James Gray
October 7, 2024
Revised: October 7, 2024 2:27pm
Photo: James Gray
Algonquin's Catharina Lamb races Centennial's Mylie Decoff during a Colts attack.

A goal by the Centennial Colts five minutes into a women’s soccer match against the Algonquin Wolves on Oct. 5 set the tone for visiting team’s 3-1 win at the Woodroffe Sports Field.

On that cool afternoon, with the sun in her eyes, Centennial’s Soledad Vazquez-Cicutto shot a free kick over the Algonquin wall, off goalie Paige King’s fingers, and into the back of the net.

That was huge for morale, according to Mykaela Volpe, a Centennial assistant coach. “We’ve been scoring in second halves more than first halves, so it was nice to see the scorers come in strong to start the game,” Volpe said.

Algonquin goalie Paige King hits the ground after trying to stop Soledad Vazquez-Cicutto's shot.
Algonquin goalie Paige King hits the ground after trying to stop Soledad Vazquez-Cicutto's shot. Photo credit: James Gray

The Centennial Colts maintained a hard press for the rest of the half, heavily keeping the ball in Algonquin’s zone. At 44 minutes, Algonquin’s Jasmine Young injured her left ankle while contesting a ball and had to leave the field.

The second half started similarly, with Vazquez-Cicutto marking another point at 51 minutes, an arcing shot above the scrum and King’s outstretched arms. The Centennial fans, often noisier than Algonquin’s, were elated.

Algonquin got one back at 67 minutes when Kassandra Da Cruz scored on a penalty kick, with the goalie too slow to stop it.

But then at 78 minutes, Centennial’s Mylie Decoff struck the dagger with a shot that bounced off Olivia Bradley’s block and into the goal.

Despite letting in three goals, King had many impressive saves. At 14 minutes, her initial block sent the ball over her head and towards the net, only for King to spin around and punch it out to safety. She followed up with a Superman sideways dive at 24 minutes and a one-handed deflection at 27 minutes.

Centennial's Nailah Rowe prepares to receive a pass from Alyssia Devellis.
Centennial's Nailah Rowe prepares to receive a pass from Alyssia Devellis. Photo credit: James Gray

In the end, the score was 3-1 for Centennial.

“I think the free kick from Sol [Vazquez-Cicutto] started the tone. Serena [Mcdonald]’s pressing, Mylie on the wings, and the defence not letting anyone in,” Volpe said when asked about the key factors of the victory. “I think it was a whole collective team effort that brought it home for us today.”

The Centennial Colts are now the top-ranked team in the OCAA Women’s Soccer East Division. On the previous day, they were tied with Seneca, who also defeated Algonquin yesterday.

“I think it’s going to be a tight race for the top two or three spots,” Volpe said. “We’re looking to hold on to the top one or two spots and we’ll go from there,” she added.

Algonquin is tied for third place with Cambrian but still has two more games in the regular season. Cambrian only has one more game and it’s against the Wolves at Algonquin’s Sports Field on Oct. 12.

“I don’t think we can hit first anymore,” said Basil Phillips, the Wolves’ head coach. “‘Cause the two teams we’re chasing are the two teams we played this weekend, and it’s unlikely they’ll lose to anyone else in the league.”

George Brown, four points behind Algonquin and Cambrian, could also become a threat. But in any case, the Wolves are assured a playoff spot.

Olivia Bradley moves in for a shot against Centennial goalie Jordyn Chrons-Slaght. Bradley was also named an Athlete of the Week this week by the Students Association.
Olivia Bradley moves in for a shot against Centennial goalie Jordyn Chrons-Slaght. Bradley was also named an Athlete of the Week this week by the Students Association. Photo credit: James Gray

“We’ve got a lot that we have to improve on,” Phillips said. “Areas all over the field. We’ll work on them and be better next time.”

Algonquin will face the St. Lawrence Surge in Kingston on Oct. 9.

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Nokia’s $530,000 donation boosts Algonquin College’s tech programs

Computer systems technology and networking programs are adapting their courses to incorporate recently donated Nokia equipment
Emmet Paradis
Photos: Emmet Paradis
October 7, 2024
Revised: October 7, 2024 10:08am
Photo: Emmet Paradis
Charles Nixon, academic technologist at AC, plugging in a fibre-optic cable in T108.

Charles Nixon navigates a lab filled with outdated routers and switches, preparing to refurbish the discarded equipment for student use.

Soon, the information and communications technologist will help integrate new gear from Nokia, significantly upgrading the learning environment.

A $530,000 donation was made by Nokia to Algonquin College’s computer systems technology and networking programs in September.

“Having the Nokia equipment in addition to Nokia routers, Cisco routers and Cisco firewalls gives the students that hands-on, practical experience,” said Nixon.

The programs received brand-new Nokia Wi-Fi access points and enterprise-grade routers with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $15,000 each. There are currently 24 Nokia routers installed in Room T108.

“Overall, it is a system upgrade, and with upgrades come that increased speed and processing power that makes our labs and our daily life using these systems better,” said Filip Wasowicz, a computer systems technician student.

The equipment provides hands-on experience with enterprise-grade equipment. It simulates real-world network configurations found in corporate environments.

Second semester CST student Elvis Zak Masembe asking academic technologist Charles Nixon questions about their coursework
Second semester CST student Elvis Zak Masembe asking academic technologist Charles Nixon questions about their coursework. Photo credit: Emmet Paradis

Students learn to build network configurations that can meet various business needs.

Currently, no courses are using the new equipment. The staff is actively working on integrating it into the curriculum, so for now, it remains stored until it can be incorporated into the courses.

These programs use technology that was previously used across the college and was on the verge of being thrown out or given away, according to Nixon. They refurbish the equipment and incorporate it into their coursework. They also invest in new equipment alongside the donations received.

Second-level CST student Yaser Badahman completing his in-class work
Second-level CST student Yaser Badahman completing his in-class work. Photo credit: Emmet Paradis

Nokia is part of the bachelor of information technology program’s advisory council and meetings are held at the college.

“We’ve been working on trying to get equipment from Nokia for a while,” said Nixon. “Every time they would come to the program advisory meeting in this room, I would give them a tour of the lab, and I’d say, look at all the Cisco equipment we have. I don’t have any Nokia equipment.”

The Nokia representatives who were part of the advisory committee told their management about the lack of Nokia equipment in AC’s programs, which encouraged the donation.

“Contributions like this one are a crucial part of building industry and educational partnerships that drive innovation and have a lasting impact,” said Linda Krebs, the head of talent attraction, corporate functions and strategy and technology at Nokia Canada.

“By supporting curriculum development and enhancing student learning environments, we’re not only investing in the next generation of tech leaders but also creating a sustainable pipeline of talent that benefits both the students and the industry at large,” Krebs said in a press release from the college’s communications department.

About 30 to 40 graduates from these programs are hired by Nokia each year.

“When the students go off to work in industry, they’re going to want to work with equipment in the industry that they have the training on,” said Nixon. “If they have training on Nokia equipment, they may also be more inclined to buy their equipment.”

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Ceremony opens college events on Truth and Reconciliation Day

"We have only begun to recognize and acknowledge the harms that have been done, and only just begun the work that needs to happen," said professor of Indigenous education Sarah Wright
Linda Verreault
Photos: Linda Verreault
October 7, 2024
Revised: October 7, 2024 9:56am
Photo: Linda Verreault
Algonquin College president and CEO Claude Brulé talks with Jenny Tenascook, a residential school survivor, at the ceremonial fire.

The Recognition Opening Ceremony was held in Nawapon at the Algonquin College Ottawa campus on Sept. 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It opened with the drumming song and tobacco offering from traditional singer Awema Tendesi.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation honours the children who died, the survivors, their family and the community. It’s a day that recognizes the tragic history and shame of residential schools.

Algonquin College president and CEO Claude Brulé welcomed Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, Indigenous advisor Jenny Tenasco and College Ward councilor Laine Johnson to the Ottawa campus.

“If you get the opportunity to talk to an Indigenous person, sit down with them and invite them for coffee. Ask them about their experience, because I’m only one person. My experience is different from everybody else’s so there’s a lot of stories to be told,” said professor of Indigenous education Sarah Wright.

Wright was at the event and shared her journey of healing with the people who attended the ceremony.

“I went to do my master of education and training…I was focused on Indigenous ways of knowing and it’s in those spaces where you would…feel heard, we feel seen and supported,” said Wright.

Brulé spoke about his vision of how the college can contribute to truth and reconciliation within the community.

“There are two components. My vision is to ensure first of all that our First Nation communities really feel a sense of belonging at the college…today’s reality of education is a pathway to prosperity for everyone. The second piece there is that people learn their history, their truth and can participate in their healing,” Brulé said.

Wright read The Orange Shirt by Phyllis Webstad to the children from the Early Learning Centre.

“Her bright orange shirt was taken away and she worried how long she would have to stay,” said Wright as she read the storybook.

Professor write reads The Orange Shirt story by Phyllis Webstad to the children from The Early Learning Center.
Professor Sarah Wright reads "The Orange Shirt" by Phyllis Webstad to children from The Early Learning Centre. Photo credit: Linda Verreault

She gave the attendees advice on how to help the healing process for others. “Perhaps the next generation will grow up and have an understanding that can affect real changes in attitudes and understanding,” said Wright.

The college is making efforts integrate progressive changes. Brulé shared a personal reflection on his journey regarding truth and reconciliation. “I speak to elders and knowledge keepers, storytellers and listen to the communities. We really could learn about history and talk,” said Brulé.

“The new program we have includes different perspectives. We have to change it to allow people to feel included. To me that is a great step forward,” said Brulé.

Brulé and residential school survivor Tenasco, 72, walked around the garden area of the fire pit and talked.

Tenasco said she was also visiting different institutions and the Mamidosewin Centre. She was sharing her story, giving suggestions to the college and meeting with students.

“What I would want people to take away is that we have to keep truth and reconciliation in our minds and our hearts and reflect on the work that we have done and recommit ourselves to moving it forward in the future,” said Wright.

— with files from James Gray

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October Horoscopes

Aries [Born March 21–April 20] This month will test your fortitude, your dignity and your teamwork. But at the end of the trials, great boons await. Look inward with a critical eye and earn your just reward. Taurus [Born April 21–May 20] A gift is coming, but you must prove yourself through virtue. Keep an […]
James Gray
Photos:
October 5, 2024
Revised: October 5, 2024 10:24am


Aries

[Born March 21–April 20]

This month will test your fortitude, your dignity and your
teamwork. But at the end of the trials, great boons await. Look inward with a critical eye and earn your just reward.

Taurus

[Born April 21–May 20]

A gift is coming, but you must prove yourself through virtue. Keep an
open mind, be honest and judicious— you can do this. Beware
technological mishaps.

Gemini

[Born May 21–June 20]

You will find yourself in a group that receives glory and applause.
Enjoy your laurels, but keep a cool head. You will meet those with
ulterior motives; heed your intuition.


Cancer

[Born June 21–July 22]

You will face isolation, hard trials and bitter arguments this October.
You can only rely on yourself. Be diligent, set plans and work to them,
and you’ll make it through.

Leo

[Born July 23–August 22]

You will find yourself either needing aid from a stranger, or in a
position to give it. But either way, you need self-assurance to set the
best path for yourself. Charity is a tool, not a life.

Virgo

[Born August 23–September 22]

Your community will be your greatest strength— but only if you cultivate
warmth and protection while casting out extortion and politicking. An
outside threat may force resolutions.

Libra

[Born September 23–October 22]

Like Gemini, good things are coming to your team this October. To wit,
if you’re close to a Gemini, it’s a good idea to stick with them. But
it’s easy come, easy go, so work hard to secure opportunities.

Scorpio

[Born October 23–November 21]

You’re struggling with torpor and apathy. If you let it fester, the consequences
could be severe. Look at yourself, find what’s dragging you down and do
your best to move past it.

Sagittarius

[Born November 22–December 21]

In early October, rest and healing. In late October, sorrow and loss.
Yet do not fall into the despair of anticipation— you have, or will
build, the strength to go on.

Capricorn

[Born December 22–January 19]

You’ll have a conflict with a relative, and be tempted to fall into
seclusion. Resist this temptation. Returning to the world as normal will
be better in your long term. The conflict’s victor is unclear, though.

Aquarius

[Born January 20–February 18]

Your fate is closely bound to a Virgo near you. Yet while they’ll
struggle with their bonds, you’ll be more pressed to defend yourself and
your position. By calling on the right aid, you’ll come out on top.

Pisces

[Born February 19–March 20]

Consider the prisoner’s dilemma, and whether it’s best to stick with
your group or look out for yourself. The answer is unclear, but if
you’re making a change, move hard and fast before someone interferes.

Fun Stuff | Horoscopes

James Gray

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James Gray

College ward councillor encourages students to speak up during 2025 city budget consultation

This year's budget is “one of the most consequential budgets in Ottawa's history,” according to Jonathan Parker, who has taught local government at Algonquin College
Ben Fleguel
Photos: Ben Fleguel
October 5, 2024
Revised: October 5, 2024 8:30am
Photo: Ben Fleguel
Laine Johnson said Route 88 will soon be split into two routes to help with overcrowding and lateness. The change is part of OC Transpo's New Ways To Bus initiative, which will come into effect after O-Train Line 2 and Line 4 are up and running.

College ward councillor Laine Johnson said students can make an enormous difference when they offer concerns and opinions to elected officials.

“I speak on behalf of students a lot, but the more specific examples I can have, the more personal stories we can hear, I think the more likely we are to generate that shared understanding,” said Johnson, who represents the area of Algonquin College on city council.

Johnson will be joined by Theresa Kavanagh and Sean Devine, councillors of Bay ward and Knoxdale-Merivale ward, respectively, on Oct. 7 to consult the community regarding the 2025 city budget.

The meeting is the first of 11 such events and the only one involving the College ward. Johnson said it would be extremely powerful for students to attend and voice their concerns.

“I can name you three or four different meetings where we’ve had young people come out from various post-secondaries, whether it’s Carleton or Algonquin and councillors will thank them directly,” said Johnson.

Jonathan Parker, a professor of media studies at Algonquin College who has spent much of his career in politics, said this is a great opportunity for students, who often complain about their elected officials, to see how the process unfolds.

“Is it going to be the most fun you’ve ever had? Probably not. Is it going to be informative? Yeah, you’re going to learn something,” said Parker. “Go and see it, go and be a part of it and learn that democracy isn’t as broken as many of us walk around thinking it is.”

The meeting is virtual and will run from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The meeting requires pre-registration which can be found here.

According to Parker, witnessing the budget process can help restore faith in the political system.

“I can’t stress enough how disarming it is to put students in front of the political process. We have our perceptions about politics. We see the negative parts that are just kind of fed to us,” said Parker. “For the most part, when we go and watch it in real time, virtually or otherwise, we can see that it’s thoughtful people having discussions about the best way to manage our communities.”

Adam Hassan, a Level 1 human services foundation student, said public transit could use more attention. Hassan said buses are often late and some can get overcrowded.

“My experiences so far (with public transit) have been decent, except for the 88 Terry Fox, which was overall not a very good experience,” said Hassan.

The city has found public transit budget shortfalls totalling $120 million and the finance and corporate services committee has recommended correcting actions in a budget directions report.

The proposed actions include a fare increase, a transit levy increase and service reductions.

Parker said students who wish to raise concerns about an issue and are nervous should find like-minded people and attend the meeting as a group.

“I think it’s completely fair to have a bunch of like-minded students attend the meeting to reinforce the message and to try and at least demonstrate that there’s a certain critical mass of people who want a push in a particular direction,” said Parker. “There’s also value in not necessarily having a position but going there to listen. Just seeing the process unfold is disarming.”

Hassan said he has never attended a municipal meeting but would not be surprised if students decided to participate in Monday’s edition.

“The bus routes are very, very important to a lot of people, especially people who can’t afford a car,” said Hassan.

Johnson said students who are too nervous or busy to attend the meeting can contact her anytime through the College ward website.

“Please let me know what’s going on for you in this area, around the college, because I am listening,” said Johnson.

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Ben Fleguel

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