After three years of COVID-19 and online learning, students in the bachelor of interior design program will be hosting an in-person event for their 2023 graduating class on April 20 in the ACCE building. The event is to help graduates show off their thesis projects to the community while creating networking opportunities with sponsors. It’s […]
Kit Gervais
Photos: Kit Gervais
April 12, 2023 Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm
Photo: Kit Gervais
Interior design students Mackenzie Wegman, left, and Haley Stevenson, right, collected money from an art and thrift sale fundraiser for their 2023 grad show.
After three years of COVID-19 and online learning, students in the bachelor of interior design program will be hosting an in-person event for their 2023 graduating class on April 20 in the ACCE building.
The event is to help graduates show off their thesis projects to the community while creating networking opportunities with sponsors. It’s also about celebrating the students coming to the end of their program.
“Even though we are the graduating class, the program as a whole is involved in helping us graduate,” said Georgia Reitsma, a fourth year student.
Professionals from different interior design sectors are invited to the show to take a look at students’ work. Along with networking opportunities, select students will be given awards based on the quality of their projects or community involvement.
While these career-building reasons for the show are important, the event is really to celebrate the students and their graduation.
“I’ve always looked at it as a real accomplishment to be able to succeed in a in a rigorous program,” said Erin Jenner, a professor in interior design.
Their final thesis project depends on the sector of interior design students would like to work in post-graduation.
“They are responsible for designing a space, a facility, a building within any of the sectors of interior design,” said Jenner. “The idea is that they are solving a societal problem through a design intervention.”
Students are excited about the event.
Kirsten McDuff, an interior design student, helped sell second-hand clothes at a fundraising event for the bachelor of interior design grad show. Photo credit: Kit Gervais
“It’s just a fun way for all of us to see all the work, the research project, come to life,” said Annalee Blackman, a bachelor of interior design student. “It’s our senior project and we invite friends and family to see what we’ve been doing for the past four years.”
Leading up to the event, the students were organized into committees to take on different tasks such as running social media pages, collecting sponsorships or setting up fundraisers.
They then held different fundraisers such as bake sales, art sales and thrift sales to raise money for the show, as they don’t receive any money from the college.
Students Farid Badran, left, and Younes Gueddi, right, sold art supplies to collect money for their 2023 grad show. Photo credit: Kit Gervais
Running the fundraisers has been a lot of work.
“It has been stressful trying to raise the money because we didn’t want to do so many events,” said Blackman.
But being the first in-person graduating class in years comes with big expectations for the students.
“I think it is a large amount of pressure because of our year in particular,” said Reitsma. “We’re the first grad show that’s happening since pre-COVID.”
Local CBC News: Ottawa police services are reminding the public to use 911 only for emergencies. In correspondence with National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, the service released a list of a few examples of outrageous calls received by 911 operators: · A call was placed involving an argument over sleep schedules and who gets to […]
Linda Verreault
Photos:
April 12, 2023 Revised: April 12, 2023 3:03pm
Local
CBC News: Ottawa police services are reminding the public to use 911 only for emergencies.
In correspondence with National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, the service released a list of a few examples of outrageous calls received by 911 operators:
· A call was placed involving an argument over sleep schedules and who gets to sleep alone in the master bedroom.
· Another call was placed wanting a barista arrested for excess sugar in their coffee.
· A five-year-old called regarding their three-year-old sister’s potty training.
Dispatch services handled 667,000 calls for help last year.
“We can help them do their jobs by only using 911 when it’s warranted,” said Russell Lucas communication inspector.
National
CTV News: The volunteer board of directors at the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation has chosen to resign.
The board is citing the “politicization of the Foundation,” which has placed tremendous pressure on the management and the volunteer board.
The political climate over the $200,000 donation received in 2016 seven years ago, from a businessman with ties to the Chinese government has made it impossible to continue their function.
“The circumstances created by the politicization of the Foundation have made it impossible to continue with the status quo, and the volunteer Board of Directors has resigned, as has the President and CEO,” reads a statement.
The board will have three interim directors to maintain their obligations as they seek new members.
International
National Post: New York City has the latest in high-tech police devices: a robot dog.
The devices were removed from service two and a half years ago after being called creepy and dystopian.
“Digidog is out of the pound,” said Mayor Eric Adams, a former police officer. “Digidog is now part of the toolkit that we are using.”
Adams said he won’t bow to anti-robot dog pressure.
“A few loud people were opposed to it and we took a step back,” the mayor said. “That is not how I operate. I operate on looking at what’s best for the city.”
The remote-controlled 70-pound canine will be used for high-risk situations like hostage standoffs starting this summer.
“If you have a barricaded suspect, if you have someone that’s inside a building that is armed, instead of sending police in there, you send Digidog in there,” he said.
I was talking to an international student from China a few weeks ago. That was right after the world got excited about the mysterious balloons. I wanted to ask him a question. The question one had to ask in the circumstances. It could either go very well or not go at all. “What kind of […]
Arty Sarkisian
Photos: Alex Lambert
April 12, 2023 Revised: April 12, 2023 10:04am
Photo: Alex Lambert
Algonquin Times writer Arty Sarkisian
I was talking to an international student from China a few weeks ago. That was right after the world got excited about the mysterious balloons.
I wanted to ask him a question. The question one had to ask in the circumstances. It could either go very well or not go at all.
“What kind of cartoons are you guys watching back home?”
Mike Hong, a first-year accounting student has told me about The Stories of Avanti – the cartoon he had “kind of watched.” It’s about a man named Nasreddin, who was taking money from the rich and giving it to the poor. Basically, it’s the Chinese Robin Hood.
The number of international students almost doubled in the past academic year. All of them have different backgrounds, childhoods and experiences. But usually, instead of asking, we interrogate.
We interrogate them on politics, human rights and violations of human rights.
Some of you interrogated poor Hong as if he was the one responsible for the tanks smashing people on Tiananmen square in 1989.
I am sure we would have left him alone if he wasn’t “too Hong.”
We claim we want to get Hong’s perspective and learn something, but usually, we just want to hear him agree.
“Hey Mike, what do you think about the balloons?”
Mike has to answer. He can’t be silent. As a Chinese person, he certainly has an opinion, right? He will certainly agree with us, because why wouldn’t he, right? We are right, right?
Even if we are not, Mike Hong will agree with us anyway. He is a Chinese person desperately trying to be Canadian.
But it feels like he will never be Canadian enough.
Fifty years from now, we’ll still be looking not in but at his eyes, not asking but interrogating why on earth the Chinese government is acting so Chinese.
However, I will remind you then, and I am reminding you now, it wasn’t Mike Hong who sent the balloons to Canadian airspace. He did not interfere in Canadian elections. And most importantly, he wasn’t the one who banned Winnie the Pooh in China. So, back off and ask him about the Chinese Robin Hood. Hong has a lot to say.
Ripping off a Band-Aid. Many people dread doing it. Some choose to peel slowly, taking a little at a time. Others rip fast, enduring the discomfort only for a moment. Erin Cunningham has almost become immune to this procedure. The injury tape ball, which she started in February 2022, has grown to more than seven […]
Kerry Slack
Photos: Kerry Slack
April 12, 2023 Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm
Photo: Kerry Slack
Started in February 2022, Erin Cunningham's injury tape ball grew quickly this season.
“There is talk of it just staying here as a legacy. But I am here next year, let’s hope it doesn’t grow to the size of a beachball,” said Cunningham.
Ripping off a Band-Aid. Many people dread doing it.
Some choose to peel slowly, taking a little at a time. Others rip fast, enduring the discomfort only for a moment.
Erin Cunningham has almost become immune to this procedure.
The injury tape ball, which she started in February 2022, has grown to more than seven pounds in just over a year. “It’s taken some dedication. In my 11 years in sports I’ve never seen one like this,” said Cunningham.
“When the tape ball really started growing was soccer this year because I had to have both my knees taped,” said Cunningham. “It was a robust tape job, so it just started multiplying very quickly.”
Setting goals is nothing new to Cunningham; maintaining two sports and a full-time program requires dedication, organization and perseverance, all qualities sports have helped teach her.
The Algonquin Wolves know Cunningham as their only dual-sport athlete. As a member of the varsity soccer and volleyball teams, Cunningham brings strong determination and tenacity to every game.
A highly respected member of both teams, Cunningham is known for her cheerful outlook, willingness to collaborate with her teammates, dependability and…her injuries.
“She has this giant tape ball that’s bigger than a basketball that she keeps in the locker room of all the tape she’s collected after every practice. She is always injured but plays through it. I don’t know how she does it,” said Lauren Ebert, a volleyball teammate.
.Erin Cunningham poses with game balls after two tough sports seasons. Photo credit: Kerry Slack
Cunningham’s passion for sports has taught her the value of discipline, perseverance and setting goals, all of which she applies to her academic pursuits. Having an older brother who is also into competitive sports helped grow her level of competitiveness.
“Growing up in competitive sports has taught me patience, with myself and others,” said Cunningham.
“This translates to school this year doing a lot of group work. Knowing how to balance dealing with different personalities. Bring people together for a common goal.”
When she is not on the field, her photography work captures the excitement and anticipation of sporting events. She often stays after her games to practise her craft during the men’s games.
“I was impressed every time I saw Erin get her camera out (after her game) and shoot the following men’s game. That shows me she wants to be a photographer,” said Ellen Bond, the Wolves’ event photographer.
Despite her demanding schedule, her commitment to her passions never wavers. She takes pride in being a well-rounded student, both in and out of the classroom. Her ability to excel in both athletics and the arts serves as an inspiration to all those around her.
As the seasons wInds down, Erin Cunningham looks forward to next year with the Wolves. Photo credit: Kerry Slack
“This year has been more independent projects. I can schedule them on my own time. No midterms. Still a heavy course load but that made it manageable,” said Cunningham. “Being organized has been crucial. I have a colour-coded plan, every day.”
Although she comes off as shy, she forms connections and attracts admiration from those around her.
“Erin put everything into soccer. Then when soccer was finished, she was raring to go and put everything into volleyball. Even in school and her photography, she appears passionate about that, which is reflected in her outstanding high grades,” said Basil Phillips, head coach of the Wolves women’s soccer team.
“Erin is a great teammate, very personable and a real pleasure to coach,” said Phillips.
Cunningham’s future is in a competitive field, photography, which fits in perfectly with her spunky nature.
“The avenue I’ve chosen is not female-dominated, I like proving myself,” said Cunningham. “I’d like to develop more video skills to further diversify myself from other photographers.”
Although event photography is her passion, Cuninigham also enjoys taking photos full of colour. Photo credit: Kerry Slack
If you have ever been to a women’s volleyball game you may have seen her fan section, complete with a life-size cut-out of her. Dubbed the “Erin Cunningham fan section” by announcer Vikta Paulo, several of the Wolves women’s soccer team faithfully attend every volleyball game in support of Cunningham.
“Erin is extremely dependable as a teammate. Erin isn’t the most outspoken person on the team but on the field, she is always where she needs to be, communicates well, and supports her teammates. She is consistent, puts her best effort into every game and every play,” said Caitlin Pavone, a soccer teammate and friend.
Erin Cunningham successfully defends her net, helping the Wolves to a victory over the Grizzlies, on February 3, 2023. Photo credit: Kerry Slack
“Erin listens intently. She works very hard and seldom misses a practice when not injured. She is a dedicated athlete and a good teammate which will undoubtedly spill over into her career in the future,” said Everton Senior, head coach of the Wolves women’s volleyball team.
As she prepares to enter a year in the music media and film foundations program, Cunningham hopes to play another year with the Wolves.
The size and weight of the tape ball speak to her dedication — the same dedication that will undoubtedly steer her future.
“There is talk of it just staying here as a legacy. But I am here next year, let’s hope it doesn’t grow to the size of a beachball,” said Cunningham.
Normally, when you hear the word competition, thunderous crowds come to mind. You think of pressure. Stress. Rivalries. Egos clashing. Trophies. Medals. Glory. Not here. Not at the climbing and bouldering walls inside the ARC. It was the opposite — chill. Even carefree. But not in a way to suggest recklessness. More like assured. As […]
Noah Simmons
Photos: Noah Simmons
April 12, 2023 Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm
Photo: Noah Simmons
Greg Heibet on the bouldering wall during the five-day climbing competition.
Normally, when you hear the word competition, thunderous crowds come to mind. You think of pressure. Stress. Rivalries. Egos clashing. Trophies. Medals. Glory.
Not here. Not at the climbing and bouldering walls inside the ARC.
It was the opposite — chill. Even carefree. But not in a way to suggest recklessness. More like assured. As if they’ve done this a thousand times. They knew what they were doing and didn’t need to prove themselves.
It was almost professional.
New and experienced climbers signed up for the climbing competition, which happened between March 27 and March 31.
At the top-roping wall, the climbers reached inside their chalk bags attached to their harnesses and coated their palms. Before their hands and feet scaled the wall, it was their eyes that travelled to the top. Then they began their ascent.
They scurried up the wall methodically, carefully choosing which climbing hold to grip.
They executed various holds like “jugs” (easy to grip, like a jug of water), “under clings” (upside down jugs), “slopers” (hard to hold, no edges for your fingers to pull on) or even “crimps” (come in all shapes, distinct edges that restrict your grip to the first two knuckles or the fingertips). Some climbers successfully pulled off a “dyno” (dynamic movement that uses momentum to reach the next hold, making you look like Spider-Man).
When a climber reached the peak, they tapped the top hold and then rappelled down. Occasionally, the climbers lost their grip or footing and slipped, but it wasn’t a huge deal for them. It’s part of the sport. It’s how they learn.
They climbed and tapped and slipped and rappelled and repeated the process.
Across from them, with no harnesses, climbers tested their grip on the bouldering wall using the same variety of techniques but having to climb half the height. After they “topped out” (climbed onto the top of the boulder), they climbed down the back of the wall and reappeared seconds later for another attempt.
Prizes went to the top five climbers in men’s and women’s categories and they included a sample of liquid chalk, a shaker bottle and a T-shirt.
Maya Croft, who is in her first year of becoming an occupational therapy assistant and physiotherapy assistant, was convinced by her brother and started to climb.
“He said, ‘Oh, you’ll love climbing. Do it!’ And also, it’s here, so why not try it? If I don’t like it then there’s this entire gym here to use,” Croft said at the base of the bouldering wall.
Croft entered the competition to see if she could push herself to do things outside of her orbit.
As did Owen Willoughby-Richards, a second-year business management and entrepreneurship student who considers himself an intermediate climber.
“I like seeing progression and getting better. Coming and doing a problem I’ve not done before or can’t do and completing it eventually,” Richards said.
Richards appreciates the accessibility and free cost of using the walls in the ARC and is now reaching new heights at Altitude Gym.
“It’s a great way to keep fit,” he said. “It’s just really good fun.”
Fun is the reason why Mason Gauthier, a first-year student in building construction, decided to compete and wants to make a career out of climbing.
“Friends invited me years back. I found out it was something I was good at and it stuck ever since,” Gauthier said.
Gauthier won the men’s top spot and Megan Fuller won first place in the women’s group.
Algonquin College’s public relations students hosted a pop-up thrift store on April 3 to collect funds for the Upstream Ottawa Foundation, which focuses on mental health and addictions. The thrift store offered students used clothing and accessories, with the most expensive item being 20 dollars. PR students chose a thrift store because it was the […]
Stephen Priel
Photos: Stephen Priel
April 12, 2023 Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm
Photo: Stephen Priel
In order to raise money for Upstream Ottawa, public relations students sold repurposed clothing in a temporary thrift store. (Pictured left to right) Emily Grinnell, Erik WIlson, Jack Beeston, Holly Szabo and James Schleihauf
Algonquin College’s public relations students hosted a pop-up thrift store on April 3 to collect funds for the Upstream Ottawa Foundation, which focuses on mental health and addictions.
The thrift store offered students used clothing and accessories, with the most expensive item being 20 dollars.
PR students chose a thrift store because it was the easiest to pull off and because it is popular among students. This is according to Jack Beeston, a public relations student who was dubbed the “man in charge” of setting up this second-hand shop.
“We realized it would be the easiest to throw and probably the most successful as well because the buying and selling of used goods has boomed recently we’ve noticed. We did trend research and looked into the statistics and we really think it’s the best way to do it,” said Beeston.
Renée Jewer-Pineau looks for a shirt to add to her closet. Photo credit: Stephen Priel
Dylan Martyn, a graphic design student, proved Beeston’s research true. Martyn said he visited the second-hand store because it was nearby and because he is a big fashion fan who likes the idea of repurposed clothing.
“It was pretty close to where I was and I’m a big fashion head,” said Martyn.
Students’ attraction to retro materials also applies to fashion, Martyn said.
“The same reason other older things are appealing, you have people who collect vinyl even though everything is digital now. It’s just an acquired taste and especially with clothing a lot of people like to dress as a way of expression and some people are into that kind of clothing and want to send that message,” said Martyn.
PR students were given the task of creating a campaign and selecting a cause to assist. They decided to aid those dealing with mental health and addiction challenges. As a result, they came up with the moniker Concurring The Current.
The title was picked because it relates to the name of the organization they chose to support (Upstream Ottawa Foundation) and it was a creative way of describing how people conquer mental health and addiction struggles.
Another student in the public relations program, James Schleihauf, said that because mental health problems can not be seen, they are often overlooked and are thought to have less of an impact on people’s wellbeing.
“I think it’s something that is a lot harder to see, whereas your physical health, you’re injured, and people can see it and there are obvious ways to treat that. With mental health, because you can’t see it, there is the stigma around it and people can be very dismissive if they haven’t been through it,” said Schleihauf.
Algonquin College students were quick to line up for a treat at the AC Hub eager to enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast on Monday, April 3 at 9 a.m. The AC Hub filled up quickly, as pancakes were available on a first-come, first-served basis. Along with bringing their appetites, students also took the opportunity to […]
William Bailey
Photos: William Bailey
April 11, 2023 Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm
Photo: William Bailey
Yohann Angbe, a computer programming student, enjoyed a pancake meal despite not being a breakfast person. "It doesn’t really make any difference in my energy levels," he said
Algonquin College students were quick to line up for a treat at the AC Hub eager to enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast on Monday, April 3 at 9 a.m.
The AC Hub filled up quickly, as pancakes were available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Along with bringing their appetites, students also took the opportunity to hang around with their peers for some early morning socializing. Approximately 30 students were in attendance.
“We felt that providing breakfast for the students would be a good way to bring them together,” said Lauren Larocque, an events officer at the college. “It’s good for the community when we have events like this where students can meet one another while enjoying a nutritious breakfast.”
Lauren Larocque, events officer at the college, sees serving breakfast to students as a way to unite them. “It’s good for the community when we have events like this where students can meet one another." she said. Photo credit: William Bailey
Along with uniting them, the Good Morning Monday pancake breakfast provided a brief escape for students as they enter the final stretch of the semester.
“Supporting the students with breakfast could help them start their day off the right way and perhaps take their mind off of finals coming up, as this is typically a very stressful part of the semester,” Larocque said. “Not to mention that food can be expensive, so hosting this at least gives the students one less meal to worry about.”
A free breakfast is open to all students on the first Monday of every month.
But enjoying a nutritious breakfast is a rarity for some students, who often skip breakfast or even neglect food outright during school hours.
“I don’t normally eat while I am at school,” said Yohann Angbe, a computer programming student. “Today is an exception because I am going to the gym later. But I honestly don’t think breakfast is that important. I personally feel I’m more focused without eating much and it doesn’t really make any difference in my energy levels. Sometimes, I may eat two or three oranges when I wake up, but won’t eat for a while after that. But if I ever go too long without eating, I’ll get headaches.”
Other students see tremendous value when it comes to the most important meal of the day.
“Of course, breakfast is very important for all of us,” said Ryan Yasawy, another computer programming student. “Breakfast is the first meal of the day and it’s necessary because it gives you the power, the energy to go about daily life. In my case, I don’t usually eat breakfast because almost all of my classes are in the afternoon, so I’m sleeping through most of the morning hours. But if I woke up early enough regularly, I would definitely be eating breakfast.”
Featured Story | Life
#pancakes | AC Hub | Breakfast | Community | Students
When Elise Campeau suffered a serious injury a few years ago, she needed to find something to do while she recovered. She decided to revisit a passion that she had when she was younger: painting. Campeau, who is Mohawk from Akwesasne, joined other Indigenous vendors and creators in the Student Commons on March 31 and […]
Justin Hancock-Lefebour
Photos: Justin Hancock-Lefebour
April 10, 2023 Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm
Photo: Justin Hancock-Lefebour
Amanda Latreille (left) and Anabelle Latreille (right) sold jewelry, candles, seal skin and fox fur at their booth.
When Elise Campeau suffered a serious injury a few years ago, she needed to find something to do while she recovered. She decided to revisit a passion that she had when she was younger: painting.
Campeau, who is Mohawk from Akwesasne, joined other Indigenous vendors and creators in the Student Commons on March 31 and sold paintings and prints at her booth.
“I just like expressing my vision of different things, and just want to share them,” Campeau said.
The Mamidosewin Centre and Students’ Association invited Campeau and the other vendors to share their work with students, staff, alumni and community members of the college. These vendors sold crafts, jewelry, blankets, furs and art.
Anabelle Latreille, a vendor from Iqaluit, sold jewelry, candles, seal skin and fox fur. Latreille views her craft as a great way to heal due to the fact that it is traditional in her culture.
“Making jewelry and doing anything connecting to our culture is super healing to us,” Latreille said. “When other people buy it, it makes us feel 10 times better, which is why we sell our jewelry.”
Latreille has some encouraging words for aspiring Indigenous vendors.
“Your talents are great, and your ideas are great,” Latreille said. “Just keep creating and thinking there’s always a market. Everybody likes different things. Don’t feel like you’re not going to belong.”
Taliah Lyons, a founding member of Youth4Youth Canada, a group created and led by female Indigenous youth, wanted to raise money by selling sweets.
“We’re trying to raise money to support our other projects so we can bring members of our community together,” Lyons said. “Sometimes fundraise to send things to our communities.”
Cassandra Tolley, who is Algonquin from Kitigan Zibi and is now based in Maniwaki, is the founder of Cass’s Native Beadwork. At the event she hoped to meet new people, get her name out there and get recognized. She sold a large assortment of items at her booth.
“I have earrings, medicine pouches, bolo ties, dreamcatchers, blankets, smudge feathers,” Tolley said.
Tolley’s mother taught her how to bead when she was young and her talent became practical. “I started beading and just started generating a lot of money, so I just kept going after,” Tolley said.
Other types of creators were at the event too.
Jenna Spagnoli, a marketing strategist, hoped to spread the word about the newly opened NAC Indigenous Theatre.
“Indigenous Theatre started just actually before the pandemic,” she said. “And the first inaugural season was interrupted by the pandemic, so this year is our first full season. Compared to the rest of the NAC, we’re a newer department.”
What is Spagnoli hoping to get out of this fair?
“Ideally, to sell some tickets or spread awareness for our upcoming shows, but also to let people know about the NAC Indigenous Theatre,” she said. “We have some programming for national Indigenous history month. We’re just here to represent Indigenous Theatre, let people know about our programming.”
Featured Story | News
Art | Business | Crafts | Indigenous | Mamidosewin | Vendors
Former Algonquin College hotel and restaurant management student Sushen Kakkar is now the owner of Ottawa’s first milkshake bar. “When I came to Canada, I think I always wanted to open a restaurant,” said Kakkar, who was originally looking to open a regular bar but decided to try something he hadn’t seen in Ottawa. For […]
Annika Schlarb
Photos: Annika Schlarb
April 10, 2023 Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm
Photo: Annika Schlarb
Former Algonquin College hotel and restaurant management student Sushen Kakkar is now the owner of an Ottawa milkshake bar.
Former Algonquin College hotel and restaurant management student Sushen Kakkar is now the owner of Ottawa’s first milkshake bar.
“When I came to Canada, I think I always wanted to open a restaurant,” said Kakkar, who was originally looking to open a regular bar but decided to try something he hadn’t seen in Ottawa. For God Shakes is located downtown on Dalhousie Street and is the first milkshake bar in the city.
What Sushen Kakkar learned during his time in the hotel and restaurant program helped guide him throughout the planning process for opening his restaurant. After graduating from the program, he was able to apply his marketing and business knowledge.
“I learned how to take things step by step,” Kakkar said.
Despite the idea that milkshakes are more likely to be a summer favourite, the restaurant’s opening in October 2022 was a success, and sales throughout the winter were great.
“There’s nothing like this in Ottawa. Everybody was excited, and we’ve had a really good response,” explained Kakkar.
The Algonquin program taught Kakkar aspects of a successful business, and he still falls back on the information while running his restaurant.
“Algonquin is doing amazing. The program is practical and really helpful,” said Kakkar.
The For God Shakes website says, “We serve 100 per cent flavourful milkshakes made with 100 per cent pure love and originality.” With over 10 flavours, the diverse menu also offers lactose-free and vegan options.
The milkshakes at For God Shakes often come with special toppings, including cake. The lemon lavender milkshake comes with lemon cheesecake Photo credit: Annika Schlarb
With the anticipation of tourism, For God Shakes is already preparing for the summertime. Twenty new milkshakes were recently added to the menu. For God Shakes will be open from 1 p.m. to midnight on weekdays and 1 p.m. to 1 a.m. on weekends.
The dessert menu has a delicious variety of cheesecakes, gluten-free strawberry champagne cake and vegan carrot cake, along with the popular pancake towers that come in three different flavours.
Kakkar explained how teamwork is important when running a restaurant; he always leads his team instead of giving orders. He said this is something he will always remember from the hotel and restaurant management program.
Opening and running a business comes with an elaborate planning process. Kakkar described the importance of background research that must be done before even investing in a property. “You have to be calm and patient,” he said.
Community members have had the chance to sing and dance along to their favourite songs on the second floor of the Student Commons at the AC Hub every Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The “Feel Good Fridays” event is meant to make students feel good while listening to their favourite tunes while they […]
Kit Gervais
Photos: Kit Gervais
April 10, 2023 Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm
Photo: Kit Gervais
Student navigators Fabiana Ferrvosso, left, and Irina Alengoz, right, take in the song requests for the AC Hub event. “I think it definitely helps students to turn on music you like to relax,” said Alengoz.
Community members have had the chance to sing and dance along to their favourite songs on the second floor of the Student Commons at the AC Hub every Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The “Feel Good Fridays” event is meant to make students feel good while listening to their favourite tunes while they study or just hang out before the weekend.
Between the natural light from huge windows to couch-like booths, the AC Hub is an environment many students choose to unwind.
Students let Irina Alengoz or Fabiana Ferrvosso, students navigators taking requests at the Hub, know what songs they want to play, as long as it’s safe for work.
“I think it definitely helps students to turn on music you like to relax,” said Alengoz.
Talya Blakey, a a drawing foundations for animation and illustration student agrees. While twirling a coloured pencil near her sketchbook on Friday, Blakey says that she thinks it’s beneficial to listen to music while studying or doing assignments.
“I didn’t know that was a thing [before today], that’s cool,” Blakey said, about the Feel Good Friday event. She just comes to the Hub to study or hang out.
Drawing foundations for animation and illustration student, Talya Blakey, works on a drawing in the AC Hub. Photo credit: Kit Gervais
Alengoz said that most students are indeed surprised by the event. She said not many are aware that they can choose their own music in the AC Hub, but despite that, they get a lot of song requests.
There’s yet to be one that is a top pick or fan favourite. The songs played over the speakers are randomized, since each student has their own specific taste.
Gabriel Zuluaga, drawing foundations for animation and illustration student, agrees that music can help students work. But when it comes to the event itself, he wondered why they can’t just listen in their headphones.
“You can just, like, listen to it on your own,” he said.
Ferrvosso, a student navigator, thinks the event is really nice.
She’s also a full-time student and helps post about AC Hub events on social media to invite more people to participate.
Now that the term is nearing exam season, she said it really helps students “chill and relax a little.”
Arts & Entertainment | Featured Story
#ACHub | AC Hub | Event | Events | Friday | Music | Songs | Student | Student commons | Students | Study
