Commuters have experienced some much-needed relief. But will the price of gas affect their vote in the upcoming election?
Kevin Clasper-Inglis
Photos: Kevin Clasper-Inglis
April 11, 2025 Revised: April 11, 2025 2:59pm
Photo: Kevin Clasper-Inglis
A Petro-Canada gas station down the road from Algonquin College on Woodroffe Avenue.
The federal consumer carbon tax dropped to zero per cent on April 1, immediately impacting gas prices in Ottawa and helping the budgets of Algonquin College students.
Gas prices across Ottawa dropped by an average of 20 cents per litre. For many students and staff who rely on their vehicles to get to the college, it’s a welcome respite to their wallets.
A Nepean resident fuels up his car Wednesday morning. Photo credit: Kevin Clasper-Inglis
Daylin Wilcott says it will allow him to fill his tank more often.
“Recently, I’ve just been putting in the bare minimum to be able to get me from place to place,” Wilcott said.
But on April 1, he was filling the tank up.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, who recently replaced Justin Trudeau as leader of the Liberal party, made the removal of the unpopular policy a priority after taking office. Eliminating the controversial tax had been a key policy plank of Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the opposition Conservative Party.
Conservative and Liberal election signs next to a Petro-Canada on Woodroffe Avenue near Algonquin College. Photo credit: Kevin Clasper-Inglis
Henry Trepanier, a student at Algonquin College, is happy for the extra relief at the gas pump and believes it was right to remove the consumer portion of the carbon tax while leaving the industrial portion of the tax on.
“The carbon tax is good if it’s charged to the right people,” Trepanier said.
Carney has not pledged to removing the industrial portion of the tax, which taxes industries on their carbon emissions. The Conservatives have pledged to go further and scrap the industrial carbon price.
“I appreciate Mark Carney’s point of view,” Trepanier said.
Algonquin student Henry Trevalier with his car. Trevalier supports the removal of the consumer carbon tax.
He says the removal of the carbon tax is just “sprinkles on the donut” and was planning to vote for Carney regardless.
“Certainly saving a few bucks at the pump is great. That little isn’t enough to sell my soul to either party, but I think it will make a difference for sure,” Trepanier said, speaking on the April 28 federal election.
“It will definitely get him (Carney) votes.”
Willcott wasn’t sure if lower gas prices would inform his vote choice in the upcoming election.
“It’s definitely a consideration given the trade wars with the U.S. and everything that’s going on. A lot is going on for our government right now and gas does add to it,” he said.
Algonquin Student Daylin Wilcott fuels up his car at Petro-Canada on Woodroffe on April 1, the first day of the carbon levy dropping to zero percent. Photo credit: Kevin Clasper-Inglis
Saving money at the pump is crucial to Willcott. He has a 35-minute long commute to school and the removal of the carbon tax helps.
After the Perth campus closure, Pembroke's mayor says he received assurance from the college president that the waterfront campus is safe
Kevin Clasper-Inglis
Photos: Kevin Clasper-Inglis
April 10, 2025 Revised: April 10, 2025 4:40pm
Photo: Kevin Clasper-Inglis
The waterfront campus in Pembroke.
It has been a challenging year for Ontario’s post-secondary education sector.
With the announced suspension of 41 programs and the Perth campus’ planned closure, Algonquin College has not been spared the pain.
The college benefits the communities in which it operates and Pembroke is no exception.
Algonquin is intricately tied into the economic livelihood of the Ottawa Valley city and its surrounding community. Through the educational opportunities on offer, the waterfront campus greatly contributes to the sectors that drive the region’s economy, such as forestry, the military and health-care services, according to faculty and students.
The recently announced program suspensions and the future closure of the Perth campus have triggered anxiety throughout Pembroke about the future of its own campus.
Amy Lagree, a nursing student at the Pembroke campus, enjoys the smaller size of the campus, which is a tight-knit community reflective of the small-town vibe of Pembroke overall.
Lagree says that students get to know professors more on a personal level compared to the larger Ottawa campus.
“When my friends were at those bigger campuses, they were just a number,” she said.
Lagree says the campus is important to the city of Pembroke.
“I think if it closed, it would be really unfortunate,” she said. “I have other friends here who were in nursing and were able to get jobs in town.”
Peter Arbour has been teaching in the forestry technician program at the waterfront campus for six years and is program coordinator. Arbour, who recently won an Excellence in Teaching Award from the college, says the program offers a direct path into the Ottawa Valley forestry sector.
“Eastern Ontario still has a very robust forestry industry and our grads are lapped up by these organizations as they graduate,” Arbour said. “There’s a great impact from this program out to eastern Ontario forestry.”
He says teaching at Algonquin has been the most meaningful career he’s ever had.
Arbour’s conviction that the waterfront campus is pivotal to the city of Pembroke and the regional economy was backed up by Ron Gervais, who has been the mayor of Pembroke since 2022.
He admits that he was deeply concerned about the fate of the campus in Pembroke when he heard the announcement of the Perth campus closing.
“I’d be kidding you if I said I hadn’t already thought about ‘what if’,” Gervais said. “When the closure of the Perth campus was announced, I spoke with President Brulé (college president Claude Brulé) about whether there was going to be any consequences to Pembroke and he reassured me we were safe.”
Pembroke Mayor Ron Gervais wearing his chain of office. Photo credit: Kevin Clasper-Inglis
“Without the campus there, you have a number of good-paying positions which will no longer be here, which would have negative consequences,” Gervais said about the importance of the college campus in Pembroke.
“In addition to that, we simply wouldn’t have that student body that is contributing positively to our economy.”
The waterfront campus also has a close working relationship with the nearby Canadian Forces Base at Petawawa.
“We are privileged to be just down the road from Garrison Petawawa, one of the largest military bases in Canada,” said Jodi Bucholtz, manager of community and students affairs at the campus.
“We have a strong and ever-growing relationship. About 30 per cent of our student population is either a dependant, a spouse, or an exiting military member or veteran.”
Bucholtz says the staff population at the waterfront campus also reflects the strong ties to the CAF.
“We’re lucky to have a community and organizational partner like the Garrison Petawawa,” Bucholtz added.
Bucholtz says that attending Algonquin can act as a transitional support for Canadian Armed Forces members wanting to return to civilian life.
A variety of services and supports are available at the campus to Armed Forces members to help smooth out their transition from military life to student life. These include specific financial aid for students coming straight from the Armed Forces and a variety of bursaries.
For Marcie Lane, an Algonquin alumna who attended the college coming out of a military career, says the Pembroke campus offered her a lot of support in her transition.
“I was reluctant to go back to school,” she said. “I was a mature student and didn’t think I would fit in with younger students, but Algonquin had such a warm and welcoming environment.”
Lane says she learned a lot from younger students and also became a mentor.
“I felt valued, accepted and respected,” she said.
Peter Arbour teaches an engaged classroom. Photo credit: Kevin Clasper-Inglis
For Lane, the welcoming and supportive environment nurtured by the faculty and students at the Pembroke campus helped recreate the feeling of community and cohesion she had not felt since the Forces.
“Algonquin helped me realize my sense of purpose,” she said.
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The Wolves basketball program stole the show in a night honouring the school's best athletes at this year's varsity awards banquet
Gavin Oregan
Photos: Ellen Bond
April 10, 2025 Revised: April 10, 2025 4:19pm
Photo: Ellen Bond
The Wolves men's soccer team celebrates after being named the Team of the Year at this year's Athlete Banquet on March 26 in the Student Commons Theatre.
The Algonquin Wolves basketball program stole the show at this year’s varsity awards banquet, with two of its biggest stars walking away with the college’s top athletic honours.
On March 26 at the Algonquin Commons Theatre, the college celebrated the 2024–25 season in style, but it was the hardcourt heroes who left the biggest impression.
Women’s basketball standout Dasia McDonald and men’s veteran Simon Desta were named the female and male athletes of the year respectively, capping off historic seasons that cemented their legacies and highlighting a banner year for Wolves basketball.
McDonald, a four-time OCAA East first-team all-star, dominated the league from every angle, leading in assists, steals, assist-to-turnover ratio and three-point percentage. She also ranked top four in field goal percentage and scoring. Her efforts earned her a trifecta of major honours: OCAA East Player of the Year, East Defensive Player of the year and CCAA All-Canadian for the third consecutive season.
“This reflects everything Dasia brings to the program — leadership, intensity and consistency,” said head coach Jaime McLean. “She’s left her mark on the Wolves and the OCAA.”
Dasia Mcdonald stands on stage after winning Female Athlete of the Year at the Athlete Banquet on March 2, at the Student Commons Theatre. Photo credit: Ellen Bond
On the men’s side, Desta wrapped up his fifth and final season with a performance to remember. He became Algonquin’s all-time leading scorer, tallying 1,298 career points, and was named OCAA East Sixth Man Of The Year. In his last regular-season game, he lit up the scoreboard with 29 points and nine three-pointers, a statement finish to an unforgettable career.
“To be honest, talking to myself from five years earlier, I’d tell you that you were talking to the wrong person,” Desta said. “The way I grew up being doubted and underrated — it’s just a surreal feeling. Words can’t describe.”
A season of success across the board
While basketball ruled the night’s major awards, the entire Wolves varsity program had plenty to celebrate after a record-breaking season.
Before team and individual honours were handed out, 32 student-athletes were recognized as OCAA all-academics, earning a GPA of 3.6 or higher in the fall semester. Six student-athletes earned an even higher distinction as CCAA Academic All-Canadians and OCAA Academic and Athletic Excellence Award recipients, highlighting their achievements both on the field and in the classroom.
The honourees were:
Women’s soccer: Olivia Bradley, Alexandra Aubin, Samantha Jones
Men’s soccer: Jaeden Mercure
Women’s rugby 7s: Nicolle Boeyenga, Sydney Seymour
Team awards and recognitions
Each Wolves varsity team took a moment in the spotlight as coaches named their rookie of the year and most valuable player award winners.
Women’s soccer
Rookie of the year: Olivia Bradley
Most valuable player: Samantha Jones
Men’s soccer
Rookie of the year: Alaa Mahfouz
Most valuable player: Jaeden Mercure
Men’s rugby
Rookie of the year: Tiago Kiala
Most valuable player: Aung Thein
Women’s volleyball
Rookie of the year: Carys Tenthorey
Most valuable player: Gabrielle Paquette
Men’s volleyball
Rookie of the year: Mateo Nunez Kruus
Most valuable player: Gavin Hassell
Women’s basketball
Rookie of the year: Paige Foster
Most valuable player: Cianah Miller
Men’s basketball
Rookie of the year: Shyeem Brown
Most valuable player: Tesloch Luk
The basketball program’s success was built on more than just individual accolades. With strong rookie classes and veteran leadership, both teams showed promise and grit throughout the season, laying a foundation for future championship runs.
Team of the year: Men’s soccer
To cap off an incredible night of athletic celebration the most prestigious award of all, team of the year, was awarded to the men’s soccer team, which made Wolves history with a season to remember.
After finishing the regular season 7-1-2, they claimed the OCAA East Division title and went on to win silver medals at both the OCAA and CCAA championships, the first national medal in Wolves history.
The team also earned several individual accolades, including OCAA Coach of the Year honours for head coach Angus Wong.
Simon Desta stands on stage after winning Male Athlete of the Year at the Athlete Banquet on March 26 at the Student Commons Theatre. Photo credit: Ellen Bond
The 2024–25 varsity awards banquet was more than just a celebration, it was a reflection of a growing culture of excellence within Wolves athletics. From record-breaking basketball performances to national-level soccer success and academic recognition across every sport, the Wolves continue to raise the bar.
And if this year’s basketball sweep is any indication, the future of Algonquin athletics looks nothing short of championship calibre.
Geese wandering around outside of the library at Algonquin College on April 3.
Johnn Charles, a 20-year-old advertising and marketing communications management student at Algonquin College, believes the school might be onto something with its efforts to rid the grounds of the Canadian icons.
“I got chased by a goose when I was in the ninth grade,” said Charles.
After that terrifying encounter, Charles said he doesn’t see any need for geese on campus, believing they could be dangerous and pose a threat to the grass with their droppings.
“No need for geese,” he said.
“I’m anti-goose.”
Johnn Charles in the library at Algonquin College where he was looking at the geese from above on April 3. Photo credit: Nicklaus Korim
Algonquin College sent an email on March 21 notifying staff that the grounds team will begin spraying parts of the Ottawa campus with goose repellent in an effort to keep the honking fliers away.
“The Grounds team will be applying a repellent to deter geese from nesting,” said the college in its email. “The product will be applied to both nesting and foraging areas and may emit an odour for up to 24 hours before dissipating.”
However, not everyone shares the anti-goose perspective.
Kaitlyn Vallentgoed, 19, a professional writing student from Brockville, Ont., is used to geese and doesn’t mind their presence.
“No, not usually,” Vallentgoed said, when asked if the waddlers ever bothered her while studying outside the library, the goose hotspot on campus.
“I am definitely pro-goose.”
Kaitlyn Vallentgoed, outside the library at Algonquin College, where the geese were waddling around April 3. Photo credit: Nicklaus Korim
There is no need to worry if you are a pro-gooser. The college states in their email the chemical used for the spray does not pose “any risks to the College community or the geese.”
A common chemical used for goose spray repellent is methyl anthranilate. According to Bird B Gone, a company selling the chemical, methyl anthranilate is a grape extract. Once sprayed on the ground, it gives the grass a taste geese cannot stand, forcing them to find other areas to forage and nest.
Molly Seegmiller, 19, also in the advertising and marketing communications management program, said she doesn’t have strong feelings either way.
“I’m neutral-goose,” Seegmiller said.
While she admitted the droppings can be annoying, she also finds the birds to be a calming presence as they waddle across campus.
“I like looking at them,” she said laughing.
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The two-day thrift shop raised funds while promoting sustainability and affordability for students
Hau Ting Ng
Photos: Hau Ting Ng
April 10, 2025 Revised: April 10, 2025 9:17am
Photo: Hau Ting Ng
PR students organized a two-day thrift shop to raise funds for Rideauwood Addiction and Family Services.
The Algonquin College public relations program hosted the Spring Clean for the Cause thrift shop on March 25-26, fundraising for the Rideauwood Addiction and Family Services.
“We chose to do a thrift shop simply because it was the lowest amount of overhead that we could have and the biggest return that we could give towards raising money,” said Scott Sullivan, a member of the Spring Clean for the Cause.
Sullivan emphasized more reasons for establishing the thrift shop to benefit the world.
“We’re all living in tough economic times right now, and there’s a lot of uncertainty going on in the world, and we don’t want any of the students or anybody who will contribute to feel any kind of financial pressure.”
“We also try to run it as completely eco-friendly as possible, using no plastics and nothing of that sort because we want to send a message about sustainability and the importance of well-being in everyday life,” Sullivan added.
The thrift shop raised about $700.
Rideauwood Addiction and Family Services offers counselling and resources for individuals and families dealing with addiction and mental health issues, along with programs focused on youth and prevention services.
Felipe Higuera, the thrift shop’s secretary, said affordable prices make students happy.
“You see the smiles on people’s faces as they realize how cheap all the clothes they’re buying are because we realize we’re all students here, and we want to keep the prices as low as we can,” Higuera said.
Collin Kellert, a student in the graphic design program, bought a t-shirt. Photo credit: Hau Ting Ng
Collin Kellert, a student in the graphic design program, bought a T-shirt.
“It’s a really good sale. I find it really cool because it brings a sense of community. The shop is able to have a variety and the price is affordable,” Kellert said.
From labs to kitchens, students explore Algonquin, where their futures could take shape
Delaney Smith
Photos: Delaney Smith
April 7, 2025 Revised: April 7, 2025 11:17am
Photo: Delaney Smith
Jillian Knoyle (second to the right) and her family and friends enjoyed the environment in the Marketplace cafeteria.
The hallways of Algonquin College were filled with energy and chatter on March 29 as prospective students and their families explored classrooms, labs, and student spaces during the open house.
For many, it was a day of discovery, where their dreams began to take shape and decisions about the future became clearer.
For Oliver Reeves, a University of Ottawa student, the open house was more than just a visit: it was an exciting new chapter in his life.
“I went over to the biotech lab because I’m a science student and I wanted to see how the program operates,” he said.
“They were really informative. I learned a lot more about the program, what students have gone into in terms of work, and how it could help me gain more hands-on experience.”
Oliver Reeves enthusiastically stands next to Connections during the open house, just coming back from the biotech lab with his father. Photo credit: Delaney Smith
Reeves’ connection to Algonquin runs deep since his cousin completed the advanced biotech program and landed a job in Ottawa, which solidified his interest.
“My cousin said there’s a lot of focus on technical skills rather than just sitting in class- and I like that. Plus, my mom is a professor here in the police department, so she’s always pushed for Algonquin,” he added.
While Reeves was more drawn to the labs and the gym, Francesca Sousa had a different journey: one of self-discovery. Initially, she believed her future laid in animation and illustration, but a last-minute change led her to culinary arts.
“For a while, I thought I wanted to do animation, but then I realized culinary was the right thing for me,” she said.
At the open house, Sousa explored the culinary labs, learning about when students get into the kitchen and what the program structure looks like.
“It helped me confirm my decision,” said Sousa.
Francesca Sousa (right), and her mother were excited to come to the open house, especially since her mom was in the journalism program at Algonquin College over 20 years ago. Photo credit: Delaney Smith
Meanwhile, Jillian Knoyle walked through the Marketplace cafeteria, taking in the welcoming atmosphere of the booths each program had set out. Interested in the early childhood education program, she wanted to see if Algonquin was the right fit.
“It looks really nice: clean, organized, and everyone seems friendly. I really like the gym, too,” Knoyle said.
Beyond the aesthetics, she was impressed by the program’s strong reputation.
“They said it’s a really good course with great co-op opportunities, and that hands-on experience is really important to me.” said Knoyle.
Trent Correy won the award for "Once Upon a Studio"
Hau Ting Ng
Photos: Algonquin Times file photo
April 3, 2025 Revised: April 3, 2025 2:43pm
Photo: Algonquin Times file photo
Trent Correy won an Emmy for "Once Upon a Studio."
An Algonquin College animation program graduate won an award at the Children’s and Family Emmy Awards in Los Angeles on March 15.
Trent Correy received the Outstanding Short-Form Animated Program award for co-directing and co-writing Disney’s Once Upon a Studio. This animation celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Walt Disney Company and showcases numerous legendary Disney characters in a centennial group photo.
Correy has also contributed to two Oscar-winning films, Frozen in 2013 and Big Hero 6 in 2015. Correy, who couldn’t be reached for comment for this story, has visited Algonquin College to speak with animation students.
Tom Crook was one of the professors who taught Correy in animation. Crook described Correy as one of the most successful graduates from the program.
“Trent has presented at the Ottawa International Animation Festival, which the students find very inspiring,” Crook said.
Correy came to Algonquin College with an interest in playing volleyball and he made a last-minute decision to join the animation program. He nearly failed his first design for animation class under Crook, struggling to keep up with the program’s demands while balancing his studies and volleyball commitments.
Asked what advice he gives animation students, Crook said, “Do more than just the bare minimum to be successful. Animation is a passion, not just a job.”
Crook also offered words of wisdom to students who want to succeed in the animation industry.
“Be a team player. Be a sponge and learn from great artists around you. No one wants to work with a prima donna,” he said.
“Spend some time learning in a small animation studio to build your skills, like Trent did. He never stopped learning. But always push yourself to do better and better and learn from all the great artists and directors around you.”
Algonquin College’s animation program is ranked among the best globally. Animation graduates pursue diverse careers, especially since remote work provides more opportunities.
Keith Archibald, a professor in the animation program, explained the work graduates do after leaving the college.
“Graduates work in 2D or 3D animation, character design, gaming, and online content, such as YouTube shorts,” Archibald said. “Ottawa remains a key hub, but remote work now allows them to collaborate with studios worldwide.”
Michael Ruscitti, a Level 3 animation student, is inspired by Correy. He finds motivation in the fact that Correy was once an Algonquin College animation student like him.
“It’s genuinely amazing to see someone being able to take those tools and knowledge, and to work with one of the biggest names in entertainment and animation,” Ruscitti said.
“The feeling that if you put your mind and heart into it, anything is possible.”
“It's just really satisfying to see that people have enjoyed themselves. That's what we're there to do,” says Andrea Valois
Lara Simard
Photos: Lara Simard
April 2, 2025 Revised: April 2, 2025 4:13pm
Photo: Lara Simard
Reese Laroque, 7, dances next to Chris Eveland (left) and John WIlberforce (right) to "Knowing Me, Knowing You," March 28 at the Commons Theatre.
Amid the sea of seated ABBA fans, Reese Laroque, 7, is the first to stand. Never before has she had the thrilling experience of hearing dynamic music from a live band.
From the moment the first song comes on, the rhythm of the drum sways her to her feet and she dances her heart out to Lay All Your Love On Me, creating a heart shape with her hands to show her appreciation to the band playing in smoke and lights.
What Reese doesn’t know is that she will soon rise as a shining star to the stage, dancing next to Chris Eveland and playing his guitar during Knowing Me, Knowing You. Her dancing performance later drives the energy of the crowd, prompting people in dazzling silver dresses to dance at their seats and clap in unison.
“It was the best night of my life,” said Reese ecstatically, after receiving a custom guitar pick from Eveland with his name engraved on one side.
On the evening of March 28, for the fourth time in the past year, the Algonquin Commons Theatre was packed with people of all ages eager to hear the amazing vocals of Kevin Wright, Andrea Valois, Christine Irons, Joel Sauve and their “family.”
Crowd joins band on stage for final song "Dancing Queen". Andrea Valois (left) and Christine Irons (right) bring the energy to the stage in the Commons Theatre, March 28. Photo credit: Lara Simard
The band formed around six years ago, each musician connecting through extensive musical experience and a love for the original ABBA band from a young age.
“We’re really brothers and sisters. We really are. We do everything together and we call ourselves the S.O.S. family. There’s a lot of love,” said Christine Irons in an interview with the Times.
From popular hits such as Angel Eyes, Does Your Mother Know and Dancing Queen, all generations were on their feet dancing, singing and applauding to timeless tunes.
Longtime ABBA fans in the audience knew they were in for a nostalgic evening.
“I’m really excited because I’ve been waiting for the past couple years to come, so I’m glad I get to enjoy it,” Megan Brownsey said before the show. She and her mother, Ann-Marie Collison hoped to spend the evening enjoying good music together.
After Reese’s shining moment, the crowd erupted into the first, but not final, standing ovation of the night.
The excited chatter and applause of the crowd slowly stifled down, and fans took their seats for the ballad of Chiquitita. One flashlight lit up in a far corner of the theatre, until soon enough people from all around were waving their flashlights in the air.
Andrea Valois holds powerful note during authentic performance of "Tiger," March 28 in the Commons Theatre. Kelly Latimer sings backing vocals (left) and Jolane Simard harmonizes (right). Photo credit: Lara Simard
“There’s something in the air tonight” was the chant echoing through the crowd during the chorus of Fernando. This time, people on one side of the theatre swayed their arms to the melodic tune, immersed by the classic anthem.
“It’s the energy that you get when you’re up on stage and you just feed off of them (the crowd). You kind of go into an alternate place when you’re up there, or at least I do,” said Valois in an interview with the Times. “You lose yourself in it and you get other people to lose themselves in it. It’s just so fun.”
Take A Chance On Me was an obvious favourite: the whole room began to sing together, cheering louder and louder and whistling as Valois and Irons landed a magical harmony.
The next song was amped up by a wild guitar introduction by Sauve, sending the crowd into a frenzy for Does Your Mother Know.
Joel Sauve plays impressive guitar solo during "Kisses of Fire" sending the crowd into a frenzy in the Commons Theatre, March 28 Photo credit: Lara Simard
“When we set out to put the band together, we spent a lot of time together, so we made sure we were able to have fun and enjoy ourselves,” Wright said before the show. “I think that translates into the show because we’re having fun as people who get up on the stage and just make music, and seeing the audience’s reaction makes it surreal.”
Excited chatters could be heard before the second half of the performance, as the band returned, rocking sparkling gold and white attire.
A few less well-known songs such as Kisses Of Fire were played, but as soon as Valois and Irons threw on blazers and top hats, SOS stood back on business.
Andrea Valois (left), Jolene Simard and Christine Irons (right), fire up the performance on stage as they sing "Money, Money, Money" in style at the Commons Theatre, March 28. Photo credit: Lara Simard
During a powerful and well-choreographed Money, Money, Money, Valois and Irons danced perfectly in sync, rippling the activity from the stage through the crowd.
Irons later sang a powerful solo of The Winner Takes It All, showcasing her impressive vocal range.
The show ended on an energetic note, and many members from the audience were drawn up to the stage to dance to the song everyone was waiting for: Dancing Queen.
“I think everybody needs it at this time, and it’s just about her being happy and yeah just enjoying it: good songs, good beat, good music,” said Collison.
Everyone had an excited twinkle in their eye as they lined up to take pictures with the local sensations at the end of the night.
“Music is something, it’s the great unifier, and the music is there to communicate on a different level,” said Valois.
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Get a sneak peek at the performances that showcase this year’s talent
Ana Silva
Photos: Youth Infringement Festival
April 2, 2025 Revised: April 2, 2025 10:38am
Photo: Youth Infringement Festival
Patchwork featuring Karelle Sikapi.
The Youth Infringement Festival (YIF) has long been a platform for young artists in Ottawa, providing a stage for creative expression and a chance to make their mark on the local arts scene.
Celebrating its 27th year, this year’s festival promises to be an extraordinary celebration of theatre, music and performance. Running from March 27 to April 5, the YIF will feature six original plays created and performed by youth aged 16-25 from the Ottawa region.
The festival’s lineup is as diverse as its participants, covering a broad spectrum of themes — from grief to body horror — while offering mentorship and collaborative opportunities for emerging artists in areas such as playwriting, directing, design and stage management. These elements combine to create a unique environment where young talent can not only perform but also reflect on their creative journeys.
One of the most exciting features of the YIF is its commitment to providing young artists a chance to work with professionals. This mentorship has allowed many participants to refine their skills and deepen their artistic vision.
For Elijah Karnouk, a member of the puppetry team behind a high-fantasy show, the chance to perform at the YIFis a significant milestone in his artistic career.
“I think it’s really exciting,” Karnouk said. “Most of our performances have been in smaller venues, but here, we get to share it with a much larger audience. It’s a big step for all of us.”
Karnouk and the other participants are all students from the performing arts program at Algonquin College, where they will soon go through a rigorous audition process to be selected for the festival. Karnouk’s group is performing a puppet-based show that blends musical poetry with a dragon-slaying adventure. Along with fellow performers Mason Moore, Jackson McNeill-McLellan and Bella Graham, the creator of the puppets, and the popular YouTube channel BellaBattz, they’ve crafted a whimsical world filled with knights, goblins and a dragon puppet so detailed it feels almost alive.
Moore highlighted the dedication and skill behind the production, emphasizing the detail that went into every element.
“The craftsmanship that’s gone into these puppets is incredible. They may be sock puppets, but the effort put into them really shines through,” Moore said.
From left to right, Jackson McNeill-McLellan, Mason Moore, and Elijah Karnouk are part of the puppetry team behind a high-fantasy show, which blends musical poetry with a dragon-slaying adventure. Photo credit: Ana Silva
Despite the intricacies of their project, the group has encountered challenges.
“Finding the right socks was harder than we expected, especially purple ones!” McNeill-McLellan said.
Karnouk emphasizes the pride they take in the performance’s self-sufficiency.
“We’ve made everything ourselves, from the puppets to the entire set. That’s something we’re really proud of. It feels like a complete, self-contained world.”
For Lina Paola Quiroga Castro, participating in the YIF is deeply personal. The Colombian artist will be singing Yo me llamo Cumbia (My Name Is Cumbia), a song that ties her to her cultural roots and to her father, who helped adapt the music for her performance from Colombia.
“I’m representing my culture,” Quiroga Castro said, “I’m singing in Spanish, and my father, though far away, is still supporting me.”
Lina Paola Quiroga Castro, a Colombian artist, will sing "Yo me llamo Cumbia," a song that connects her to her cultural roots. Photo credit: Ana Silva
In addition to her song, Quiroga Castro will perform an acapella intro before dancing to the rhythm of the piece. Despite some rehearsal challenges — she hasn’t yet had enough time to practise in the performance space — Quiroga Castro is confident.
“I didn’t have time to practice in the theatre, but it’s all coming together. I’m really excited.” Quiroga Castro said.
For Quiroga Castro, the performance is part of a larger dream. “I love acting, singing and dancing. I hope this won’t be my last time on stage. I feel like I belong here, and I’ll keep performing for as long as I can.”
Another inspiring participant, Kindrajoie Roebuck, will perform an original song, Enough, in a trilingual piece that blends English, French and Spanish. The song expresses a powerful message of self-empowerment, a message Roebuck hopes resonates with others.
“It’s about reminding myself and my friends that we are enough,” she said.
Kindrajoie Roebuck will perform her original song, "Enough," a trilingual piece that blends English, French, and Spanish to convey a message of self-empowerment. Photo credit: Ana Silva
Roebuck plans to perform solo on stage, with hopes of having Jeff Aslyn accompany her on piano. Like many of the other artists, Roebuck will go through the audition process for the YIF, presenting a three-minute version of her song.
“Deciding what song to perform was a challenge, but Enough felt like the right one. It’s my message to everyone who’s ever felt like they weren’t enough,” Roebuck said.
Roebuck’s story of perseverance both as an artist and as a person adds an emotional layer to her performance.
“I’ve struggled with pain and depression for most of my life. Music is my way of dealing with it,” Roebuck said. “I want my songs to help others who feel the same way. I want them to know they’re not alone.”
From the whimsical puppetry of Elijah Karnouk, Mason Moore and Jackson McNeill-McLellan to the heartfelt performances of Lina Paola Quiroga Castro and Kindrajoie Roebuck, the YIF highlights the resilience, talent and diversity of Ottawa’s youth.
Jake Nevins, the festival’s general manager, believes this year’s lineup showcases impressive talent.
“This is a strong year for Youth Infringement. The emerging artists of today have so much to offer, and we can’t wait for you to experience it,” Nevins said.
Tickets for the Youth Infringement Festival are available in a range of pay-what-you-can pricing tiers, making the event accessible to the entire community.
Public relations students host an event to raise money for a local charity
Ève Bélanger
Photos: Ève Bélanger
April 2, 2025 Revised: April 2, 2025 10:28am
Photo: Ève Bélanger
Ruby Reception event hosted at Algonquin College Observatory.
Algonquin College public relations (ACPR) students hosted the Ruby Reception on March 26, an elegant fundraiser for Rideauwood Addiction and Family Services featuring divine house mocktails and live music.
The Observatory was decorated with balloons, red tablecloths, candles and a slideshow with an album of ACPR throughout the years. There was a journal inviting guests to share their favourite memories.
The night started with speeches by MPP Chandra Pasma, College Ward Councillor Laine Johnson, professor and program coordinator Lara Mills and Kelly Rusk, a program alumnus who paid tribute to late ACPR founder Claudine Wilson.
Rusk and Mills unveiled a plaque to honour Wilson.
The plaque’s inscription said, “May her legacy inspire all ACPR students to work hard, be curious and become the best colleagues and personal relations practitioners they can be.”
Public relations professors Lara Mills and Kelly Rusk, a program alumnus, unveiled a plaque of honour of the public relations program's late founder Claudine Wilson. Photo credit: Ève Bélanger
The event was filled with alumni, sponsors, colleagues and PR students.
“It’s impressive to see people work together so well and just create all these amazing events and make things happen,” said PR student Bianca Versolato.
“The Ruby Reception was so wonderful, I’m proud of my classmates.”
The event had live music by local singer-songwriter Elle Sherlock, who played the guitar while guests enjoyed their evening.
“We’re celebrating 40 years of our Algonquin College campaign, 40 years of fundraising and celebrating the people that let us have this path,” said Pyper Waldroff, team leader of Ruby Reception.
“We want people to recognize how we became a program and just overall all the alumni that carved the path for us.”
Team leader of Ruby Reception, Pyper Waldroff. Photo credit: Ève Bélanger
Mills thanked guests, alumni, and sponsors for being present in marking this big milestone.
“This fundraising campaign that we do every year is life-changing for our students,” said Mills.
“Not only do people learn so much about themselves and what they’re capable of, they learn how to use their public relations and communication skills to advocate for causes they care about, to tell stories to make a positive difference in the world.”
Waldroff hoped the event would raise at least $1,000.
“I believe just by ticket sales we reached our goal. We also have sponsorships and donations by the Canadian Public Relations Society and the Alumni Association,” said Waldroff.
Table with a journal in which guests could share their favourite memories. Photo credit: Ève Bélanger
With sponsors covering the cost of the venue, all proceeds from tickets and mocktails sales are going towards the Hope on the Horizon campaign for Rideauwood.
The ACPR campaign has raised $577,000 for local charities over the many years of fundraising. This year, the PR students aim to raise $10,000 for Rideauwood.
