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Mamidosewin Centre’s deer hide tanning workshop is more than just skin deep

The Mamidosewin Centre is having a hands on workshop series that teaches the traditional art of tanning deer hides

Mitchell Ansell

Photos: Mitchell Ansell

December 3, 2025
Revised: December 3, 2025 9:00am

Photo: Mitchell Ansell

Mamidoswin Centre events and communications officer Summer Wabasse outside the Mamidosewin Centre.

Making leather from hide is an old art that many may not get the chance to ever learn. Thanks to a workshop hosted by the Mamidosewin Centre, you can learn how to turn deer hides into soft usable leather.

The four-part workshop series teaches people attendees the process of taking a simple deer hide and turning it into leather that can be used to make crafts or clothing, using traditional Indigenous methods.

Summer Wabasse, the events and communications manager at the Mamidosewin Centre, explained how the workshop came to be.

“One of the Algonquin College staff members from ASPIRE AC donated some deer skins from his personal hunting trip about a year ago, and we were trying to figure out what to do with them,” said Wabasse.

“I heard from other schools that they worked with this facilitator, Tammy Cote from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg, to host hide processing workshops on their campuses. So, I reached out to her.”

Wabasse emphasized the incredible opportunity to have Cote on campus hosting the workshop.

“Turning hides into leather is something I’ve always wanted to do on campus. So, it’s kind of a golden opportunity to have her come on campus and do these hides,” said Wabasse.

Wabasse also explained what the Mamidosewin Centre hopes to use the leather for.

“We are turning these hides that were donated to the centre into leather that can be used for crafts. The goal is to be able to make moccasins,” she said.

Teharonhiatenies Shilling, an employee at the Mamidosewin Centre, described what the workshop means to him personally.

“It’s important to me because it brings back childhood memories of the teachings from my grandfather. He was a big hunter, and he had me doing pretty much the exact same stuff. We have some blankets back home that are made from deer hides that me and my grandfather caught,” he said.

Teharonhiatenies Shilling at the Mamidosewin Centre front desk. Photo credit: Mitchell Ansell

The first workshop happened earlier on Nov. 19. It taught attendees how to flesh the hide, which is a process where people scrape the fat off the hide and string it up to dry.

The second workshop happened on Dec. 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and showed the process of dry scraping the hide, which is a more in depth scraping process that involves taking hair and any other imperfections off the hide to make it as flat as possible.

“When we come back for our third workshop on Jan. 13, we will be softening the hide, and in February, the plan is to do the final smoking of the hides,” said Wabasse.

For more information about the workshops contact the Mamidosewin Centre in E-building, or at 613-727-4723, ext. 7186.

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Mitchell Ansell

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Winter blues as finals are due

As winter approaches, marking the near end of the fall term, Algonquin College students are preparing for exams and gloomy weather

Robyn Lanktree

Photos: Robyn Lanktree

December 3, 2025
Revised: December 3, 2025 8:51am

Photo: Robyn Lanktree

Two students studying in the Student Commons on Dec. 1.

Molly Walker has her study plan down to a science. She’s going to take a few days off from work, stock up on Red Bull and whip out her flashcards to practise her active recall.

“It’s not my first rodeo, if you will,” Walker said.

With less than two weeks left in the fall semester, students are rushing to meet all their deadlines and cram in some last-minute studying for their finals before winter break. The next few days may not only be busy, but also gloomy and cold as the weather drops below zero, making studying and getting to campus all the more difficult.

After taking a double major in communications and sociology at the University of Ottawa, Walker decided to pursue computer engineering at Algonquin College.

Walker’s interest in statistics and coding brought her to the college, but the quick end to November has brought her back to another exam season.

However, being used to studying almost every day, she is prepared.

“Because this course is so demanding, I’m kind of always finding myself studying, so it’s not super different from what I’m already doing every day,” Walker said.

“Not to toot my own horn, but I’ve really stayed on top of everything so far. So, it’s not like everything is piled up.”

To carve out time for herself, Walker will play video games, participate in campus yoga events and see her friends.

“I know everyone’s like, ‘I can’t see my friends until finals,’ but I actually find it’s like a nice way for me to socialize and talk about things that are not coding or math.”

More than exams, Walker dreads the added 30 minutes that snow will soon add to her commute.

“In the morning, when it does snow, I have to get up and shovel the driveway, clean the car and start the car,” she said.

Molly Walker smiles in the Student Commons on Nov. 26. Photo credit: Robyn Lanktree

Other students have already started to feel the sting of the cooling weather and early sunsets.

“One of the worst things about this time of year is that it coincides right as we go into exams,” Arianna Houle, a student in the social service worker program, said. “I feel like I never see the sun anymore.”

Houle is in the intensive program, meaning she’ll be completing the two-year diploma in just three semesters.

Although it’s Houle’s first time taking so many courses at once, and the lack of sun can keep her mood lower, her support system makes her exam season feel less daunting.

“It’s a little stressful, but I actually feel really supported by the profs that we have in the social service worker program,” she said. “So, I’m less worried about it than I thought I’d be.”

To study for all her classes, Houle has sacrificed time she’d otherwise spend either in the gym, painting or seeing friends. Without her hobbies, Houle instead squeezes in small practices in her routine to stay relaxed and combat the lessening daylight hours.

“At this time of year, I start taking Vitamin D, and I have a little sun lamp that I try to sit under in the mornings,” Houle said.

The routine and journaling work for Houle, but she advises stressed students to speak to their teachers or check out the self-regulation station in the E-building’s Wellness Centre.

“Figure out what works for you and take whatever time you can because it’s important,” Houle said.

“It’s not a luxury to do self-care. It’s maintenance. You have to do it every day.”

Sierra-Lynne Allwood, a student in the pre-health sciences program, is spending most of her days studying.

“I’m a little bit stressed out, but I’ve just been starting to study already,” Allwood said.

To balance her workload and prepare for two full weeks of studying, Allwood has started cutting back on sleep and going to the gym, which is usually her outlet to de-stress.

“I prefer to go five times a week, and I’m only going like two-ish times.”

Despite her hectic schedule, Allwood still tries to make time to relax and Facetime her friends.

Students studying in the E-building on Dec. 1. Photo credit: Robyn Lanktree

Like Allwood, many students are almost in the full swing of crunch time. With tensions running high and temperatures cooling off, Walker offered advice to stressed students.

“Getting a bad grade is not the end of the world,” Walker said. “I’ve retaken courses, and you feel a little embarrassed at first, but you get over it. It doesn’t matter; everybody goes at their own pace.

“Try your best, study hard and you’ll do good.”

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Ottawa gamers press start at packed GamerCon event

GamerCon, hosted by Geeked Out Events, returned to Ottawa for a full schedule of prize draws, card trades and much more geeky fun

Delaney Smith

Photos: Delaney Smith

December 2, 2025
Revised: December 2, 2025 5:12pm

Photo: Delaney Smith

Long tables are filled with a wide variety of games, gaming devices and cards at this year's Gamer Con event.

Ottawa’s gaming community packed into the Nepean Sportsplex on Nov. 29 as GamerCon returned for its fourth annual event. The event brought collectors, families and students for a day celebrating video games, trading cards and geek culture.

Held in Halls A and B, the event ran from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and featured almost 100 vendor tables, ranging from retro video game sellers to Pokémon card experts to artisans creating game-themed crafts.

Admission was $5, with kids aged 12 and under entering free, something organizers say makes the show especially popular with families.

At the event, there was a table set up with colouring books and crayons for kids to take a break and draw. Photo credit: Delaney Smith

Shannon O’Neill, event coordinator for Geeked Out Events, said the convention is one of the only gaming-specific shows in the region, which helps draw a steady audience even during a busy holiday event season.

“Planning is chaotic, that’s the most polite word for it,” O’Neill said. “But we’re the only gaming event in the area, so we get a lot of gamers and a lot of Pokémon fans coming out.”

Despite competing with several other craft fairs and shows across the city last weekend, O’Neill said turnout was strong.

“We had about 250 people in line this morning,” she said.

“I’m impressed people still came out, especially with the weather being unpredictable.”

One Pokémon-focused vendor was Sam West of West TCG.

His booth, lined with everything from dollar cards to rare collectibles worth thousands, drew a constant stream of children and families.

“The show is great for kids,” West said.

“We get a lot of kids doing trade-up challenges. They come with a card they don’t like, maybe worth a dollar, and try to trade up to something nicer around the $50 mark.”

West said he has been working shows for about five years, four of them in Ottawa. He’s watched the trading card community explode.

“We started with maybe five vendors in Ottawa. Now we’re at about 150,” he said. “The growth has been huge.”

Sam West (left) is flipping through a card binder, accessing the collectibles carefully to see what value they hold. — Sam West (left) flips through a card binder, accessing the collectibles carefully to see what value they hold. Photo credit: Delaney Smith

While most of his visitors browse or trade smaller items, West said serious collectors also make high-value purchases.

His priciest card currently, valued at $3,000, isn’t just for display.

“We’ve definitely sold cards in that range. At the last show, we did a deal worth about $15,000,” he said.

For many attendees, Gamer Con is an annual tradition.

Bruce Colpitts and Kim Lebrun have been coming to Geeked Out events for years and said Gamer Con offers something different every time.

“I enjoy pretty much everything here, but the video games are my favourite,” Colpitts said, adding that he picked up retro wrestling games and childhood candy at this year’s event.

Lebrun said she gravitates toward classic Nintendo titles.

“I play Mario Kart,” she said. “That’s actually what I bought today.”

Both said they’d encourage students to check the event out.

“If you like old video games, this is the place to be,” Colpitts said.

The Gamer Con was packed at around noon, with people strolling the booths with friends and family. Photo credit: Delaney Smith

Saralee Bullock, a longtime vendor who recently became a volunteer with Geeked Out Events, said the steady growth is no surprise.

“The turnout gets bigger every year,” Bullock said.

“It’s a good family event. The people are great, and everybody’s happy.”

Bullock said the event attracts a wide age range, from young children discovering Pokémon for the first time to seniors revisiting the games and collectibles of their youth.

“It’s a great place to pick up a new hobby,” Bullock said. “It builds character, it’s calming and it’s just a great activity.”

After a short winter break, the group will return in March with its largest event of the year, one that draws more than 120 vendors and up to 800 people in line before doors even open.

For O’Neill, the appeal of the events is simple.

“There’s something for every age and every skill level,” she said.

“A lot of people discover games here they didn’t even know existed.”

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IEC Holiday Party brings students together for food, games and dancing

Games, dancing and gifts turned the IEC Holiday Party into a night of food, fun and connection for all students at Algonquin College

Delaney Smith

Photos: Delaney Smith

December 2, 2025
Revised: December 2, 2025 4:41pm

Photo: Delaney Smith

Attendees began to play a challenge where they must balance a cup on their head and dance to the music all at the same time.

The International Education Centre (IEC) hosted its annual Holiday Party on Nov. 28, bringing together dozens of students for an evening of food, games and dancing inside Salon A of the Marketplace.

The four-hour celebration focused on giving international and domestic students a chance to unwind before finals while connecting with new people.

Students began trickling in shortly after doors opened at 6 p.m., quickly gathering around the long tables of appetizers that were eaten within minutes.

Near the entrance, a photo booth became an instant favourite.

The flash popped nonstop as groups squeezed together, threw on wigs and accessories, and posed for the camera before receiving printed cards.

Many students marched in a circle of chairs as they were eagerly waiting for the music to stop so they could slide into a chair. Photo credit: Delaney Smith

A small stage in the centre of the room was decorated with warm lights and snowflakes.

This is where IEC volunteers and MCs guided the night, inviting students to jump into games and join the dance floor.

Sameer Garg, an IEC volunteer and one of the MCs, said the turnout exceeded expectations.

“We didn’t expect this many people, but we had quite a lot of students come out and they’re all enjoying themselves,” he said. “I’m getting very positive feedback.”

As the games started, the room began to light up with smiles and laughter.

Musical chairs drew a crowd of students running and sliding into seats, while the “cup on your head” challenge made competitors who danced in slow, careful movements try to balance their cups.

Freeze dance brought out an even larger crowd, all trying to hold uncomfortable poses as the music cut off without warning.

Maria de Lucas Noya, a volunteer at the event, said the energy on the dance floor was her favourite part of the night.

“I loved dancing with everyone who came to the party,” she said. “All of the dances we did with the other volunteers and college staff were so much fun.”

For second-year television broadcasting student Bershaky “Berch” Belzor, the whole event was simply the vibe.

“I wanted to see what it was like to party, and it was pretty fun,” he said.

“I don’t really have a favourite game. I liked all the games.”

Berch Belzor (left) and another competitor play one last round of musical chairs to see who wins the grand prize. Photo credit: Delaney Smith

Garg said events like this help create a sense of belonging for students coming from different cultures.

“At IEC, we try to increase community engagement on campus,” Garg said.

“Students from all kinds of cultures and backgrounds come together, socialize and learn about each other.”

As the night wound down, the dance floor began to empty.

Students left holding printed photo strips, some with prizes, and many with new connections made across programs and cultures.

De Lucas Noya said she hopes more students join future events.

“It’s a great way to meet people from the college and make friends,” she said.

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Ottawa Senators kick off 2025-26 season with early struggles and successes

Algonquin College students saw the Senators start on the wrong foot, but now see a heavy turnaround with success

Scott Crowell

Photos: Scott Crowell

December 2, 2025
Revised: December 2, 2025 10:47am

Photo: Scott Crowell

Brady Tkachuk Home Fanatics Authentic Jersey hanging at Valiquette's Source For Sports

Ottawa Senators fans might be confused about what kind of team they have this season.

The Senators were faced with an identity crisis to start this season. The philosophy that led to last year’s success has stuck around, but the points haven’t been guaranteed. Games seem to be harder and more grittier.

The philosophy they had was playing hard, fast and being hard to play against, a mindset any hockey team in the NHL strives to have.

A huge factor and storyline this season has been captain Brady Tkachuk who returned to action on Nov. 28 after a lengthy injury that had him sidelined only four games into the season.

Missing arguably the Sens’ best player and trying to fill a big gap in the lineup can make things harder for a team where it’s a “next man up” mentality. However, other players throughout the lineup have stepped up, persevered through shaky games and provided solid performances.

Brady Tkachuk Jersey Number and Nameplate, at Valiquette's Source For Sports facing Pro Shop — Brady Tkachuk Home Jersey at Valiquette's Source For Sports facing Pro Shop. Photo credit: Scott Crowell

Leading the team in the plus-minus category is defenceman Jordan Spence (+8). Forward Tim Stutzle (+7) who at sat at the top of the team in points with 23 (11 goals, 12 assists) as of Dec. 1, led the way while Tkachuk recovered from his injury.

Goaltending has been an on-and-off concern. Linus Ullmark has a record of 9-6-4. He also has a 3.10 goals against average and a .874 save percentage (as of Dec. 1) which is not up to standard for a goaltender of his calibre.

Special teams have been sub-par this year, but are coming back around. The Senators’ power play is ranked 11th in the NHL at 21.8 per cent, while the penalty kill is sitting at 31st, which is second worst in the league at 69.9 per cent as of Dec. 1.

With all these ups and downs, Algonquin College students and Senators fans have some mixed feelings about how the team is doing as it nears the quarter mark of the season.

Courtney Kittmer, a Wolves Den server and Algonquin College alumna, is optimistic the Sens’ goaltending will improve.

“As they play more games the goalies will start to recognize more how the players on each team tend to shoot and the plays they use as they set up for a shot. That’s something that will hopefully improve as the season goes on,” said Kittmer

Hailey Reynolds, an early child education student, has some huge worries about the team.

“There hasn’t been the same consistency we saw like last season. The Sens need to play to a full effort,” said Reynolds.

Morgan Picard, a community and justice services student, thinks the start has actually been good without the Senators’ captain.

Brady Tkachuk True Pro Stock Player Stick for Team USA at Valiquette's Source For Sports. Photo credit: Scott Crowell

“They actually did just fine when he wasn’t playing, of course he’s an asset to the team and now that he is back it will make the team better but the team stepped up without him,” said Picard.

On Nov. 27 the Senators were the only Canadian team in a playoff spot, but as of Dec. 1, Montreal was the best Canadian team in the NHL with Ottawa just trailing them.

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Local business owners deck the halls for the SA’s fourth annual Holiday Market

The market welcomes local business to showcase their creativity right before the holiday season

Lara Simard

Photos: Lara Simard

December 2, 2025
Revised: December 2, 2025 10:30am

Photo: Lara Simard

Amanda Macri and Marion Simmons sit eagerly behind their booth, ready to sell Macri’s crocheted creations at the Holiday Market on Nov. 26

Willow MacKenzie smiled at her Holiday Market booth with confidence.

Her story began as a student at Algonquin College, where she first encountered the event that would later shape her entrepreneurial path. Now, she sells creatively designed glassware and keychains through her business Made by Willow.

“I remember coming to the event the year before my first year here, and I loved it,” MacKenzie said. “Meeting everyone and seeing my peers made me realize I wanted to apply next year.”

The halls of Student Commons in the E-building were lined with tables filled with merchandise, festive decor and a warm musical ambience on Nov. 26 and 27.

What captured the heart of the Holiday Market event was not only the decorations and creative crafts flooding the tables, but the stories of every person sitting behind the booths.

Now, standing on the other side of the table as a participant, MacKenzie reflected on what she hopes to gain from the experience.

“To me, it’s about meeting lots of people,” she said. “Maybe helping them find gifts for their loved ones, and just kind of growing and expanding everything.

Willow MacKenzie stands behind her booth, proud to display the custom glassware she now sells through her company: Made by Willow. — Willow MacKenzie stands behind her booth, proud to display the custom glassware she now sells through her company Made by Willow. Photo credit: Lara Simard

A myriad of local vendors were ready to meet new people and proud to put their products on display. From crocheting to merchandise design and candle-making, each vendor had a special story to tell. Many of them began developing their skills as a hobby and quickly noticed their skills could be put to entrepreneurial use.

Another vendor at the market that stood out was Tina Martin, who stood cheerfully behind a booth of her intricate and unique candles. She and her husband have been making candles for years.

Martin has always loved candles but could never be around them because of her sensitivity to chemical scents, which would trigger severe hives and migraines if she was in close proximity.

Knowing how much she loved candles, her husband Barry Martin decided to make her one himself. By removing alcohol and harmful additives, he created a formula that didn’t cause any allergic reactions.

“It was amazing,” she said. “I could finally enjoy candles again.”

What initially started as a loving gesture soon grew into a small business known as Fire Scape Candles.

“People loved them,” she said proudly. “Now we do markets almost every week.”

Each candle carries a story, not only because of the time it takes to make but because of the care behind it. The candles take nearly a month each to complete. The moulds for the candles are made entirely by hand, which typically takes 10 days to create in total, only for the wax to be then poured in and infused with carefully chosen scents. The candles must then cure for 14 days before they are ready to sell.

Despite the long hours, this isn’t their only work.

“We all have day jobs,” she said with a laugh, “but we do candles at night.” Markets and events often require them to plan weeks ahead, pouring dozens of candles in one evening to prepare for upcoming sales.

Firescape candles lined perfectly at the booth, ready for sale on Nov. 26. Photo credit: Lara Simard

Amanda Macri’s booth was also impossible to miss. It was brightly decorated with holiday-themed crochet pieces: frogs in tiny hats, whimsical Christmas trees and plush toys. But behind the festive display is a story of last-minute hustle, dedication and a love for handmade craft.

Macri first learned about the event through another market called Square Lemon. She now has a business called Oscars Epic Yarn, where she makes use of the hobby that consumes much of her time.

“I was doing that event, and one of the vendors, an alumnus here, told me about this holiday crossover,” she said. “I didn’t even know it existed, and I’m in my fourth year of graphic design.”

She laughed at the discovery, admitting she applied at the very last minute. Initially, she wasn’t accepted, but just days before the event, she received an email: someone had cancelled and she was invited to join.

“I said yes immediately,” she said.

Her booth stood out for its seasonal flair.

“It’s November, it’s the holidays, so I thought, why not make something festive?” Macri said.

That inspiration led to her playful idea of crocheted frogs wearing hats.

“I was just thinking, oh my God, I can make frogs and put hats on them.”

Her dedication showed in the details. Each frog takes about an hour to make, though Macri has become so skilled that she can crochet while multitasking. Markets have become such a big part of her routine, she is often seen crocheting new designs while selling at her booth and takes her yarn and hooks with her to her ringette coaching sessions.

The festive frogs Macri spent hours making the night before the Fourth Annual Holiday Market on Nov. 26 at Algonquin College Student Commons. Photo credit: Lara Simard

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Wolves women’s basketball team falls short to Seneca at home

The Wolves mounted a hard-fought comeback but fell short as Seneca held on for a narrow victory at the Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre

Duncan Roi

Photos: Duncan Roi

December 1, 2025
Revised: December 1, 2025 5:17pm

Photo: Duncan Roi

Taryn Mitchell takes a pull-up jump shot against the Seneca Sting on Friday, Nov. 28.

The Algonquin Wolves women’s basketball team was defeated 57-52 by the Seneca Sting at the Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre on Nov. 28, marking their final game of 2025.

From the opening tip-off, it was clear that the game was going to be a battle. The game saw constant defensive pressure, interceptions, dives for loose balls and a fight for every possession.

In the first quarter, Seneca relentlessly attacked the basket, converting some difficult, contested layups from close range, establishing an early lead.

Cianah Miller looks for passing options at the top of the key at the Jack Doyle Recreation Centre. — Cianah Miller looks for passing options at the top of the key at the Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre. Photo credit: Duncan Roi

The Wolves struggled early on to find their shooting stroke, and Seneca capitalized by extending their lead to 11 points in the second quarter.

Seneca guard Samantha Mendoza-Peers was key to her team’s success. Playing every minute of the game, Mendoza-Peers made several impressive steals, and her speed and passing vision were a constant threat to the Wolves’ defence.

However, the Wolves didn’t give up and clawed their way back into the game, showing a lot of grit and character to take the lead over Seneca in the second half.

Once again, Taryn Mitchell was crucial to the Wolves’ offence, following her recognition as OCAA and CCAA Athlete of the Week after her recent triple-double against Centennial. Mitchell felt proud of that achievement.

“It feels really nice. That was a stat line that I’ve never accomplished before. So, it’s good to be recognized for trying so hard to just get better for my team,” said Mitchell.

Taryn Mitchell drives before passing to a teammate on Friday, Nov. 28. — Taryn Mitchell drives before passing to a teammate against the Seneca Sting on Friday, Nov. 28. Photo credit: Duncan Roi

The game went down to the wire, but a few crucial baskets by Seneca in the final minutes of the match ended the Wolves’ late-game push. Seneca was able to hold on for the win, putting the Wolves’ record at 4-3.

The Wolves saw many key senior players graduate last season; however, head coach Jaime McLean feels his team is making progress and is on the right track.

“I think the best part about what’s happening right now is we’re learning a lot,” said McLean. “The girls are going to keep getting better, we’re going to keep getting stronger, and, hopefully, we can show better in the second half of the season.”

Mitchell also spoke to the progress her team was making.

“We’re really starting fresh. A lot of girls graduated last year, so we have a brand new team,” said Mitchell. “We’re working out the kinks still, but hopefully next semester we can come out in full force and show people what we’re really made of.”

Despite the loss, the atmosphere at the Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre remained upbeat as it was the Shoot for the Cure night, an annual fundraiser for breast cancer research. Players, fans and coaches donned pink T-shirts and accessories, coming together to support the fight against breast cancer.

The Wolves now go on a holiday break, returning on Jan. 17 to play the George Brown Huskies at the Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre.

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Event management students rally campus to support youth in recovery

A campus charity event brings in thousands for local youth treatment centre

Bradley Richards

Photos: Bradley Richards

December 1, 2025
Revised: December 2, 2025 9:24pm

Photo: Bradley Richards

A booth in J-Building for the charity event selling raffle tickets to students and offering a chance to play mini football to win an extra ticket.

Algonquin College students raised money and awareness for the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre on Nov. 25 in a fundraising event on campus.

Students in the bachelor of event, sport and entertainment management program set up booths with fun games like Happy Gilmore-inspired hockey/golf, mini football games, trivia and a wheel of fortune to sell raffle tickets.

“It’s a three-month live-in program for kids from 13 to 21 who are struggling with substance use,” said Gabrielle Stephan, a student hosting a booth with a mini football game.

The event, which had booths set up all across campus, was held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., where students could win any number of prizes such as gift cards and Fujifilm cameras and even a Brady Tkachuk Four Nations hockey stick through buying raffle tickets.

All of the proceeds from raffle sales went towards the treatment centre.

Keaghan Ruiter, a student hosting a booth in E-Building, playing the Happy Gilmore inspired game they created for the event. — Keaghan Ruiter, a student hosting a booth in E-building, playing the Happy Gilmore-inspired game they created for the event. Photo credit: Bradley Richards

Many of the prizes came from brand sponsors who donated some of their products to students for the event.

But some students, like Ethan Lloyd and his group, took a different approach, buying merchandise themselves for their booth and even donating some of their own belongings, like a jersey that Lloyd brought in for the event.

“We did this because it was simple and it was something anybody could do whether they are high income or low income,” said Lloyd, a student at the wheel of fortune trivia-style booth.

“As someone who doesn’t have a lot of funds, I kind of understand that students are struggling right now in this economy, so I wanted to make it easy and accessible for everyone,” said Lloyd.

Since the program’s creation three years ago, this fundraising event has become an annual tradition for first-year students of the program, partnering with the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre every time.

The students also handed out pamphlets to people who stopped by the booth that were filled with information about what the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre provides to the community.

“They’re very supportive of providing resources that we need to execute events, and we raise money and awareness for them,” said Caron Fitzpatrick, a professor in the bachelor of event, sport and entertainment management program.

Wheel of fortune game at a booth in C-Building. Photo credit: Bradley Richards

In the past, the program and its students have helped the charity build classrooms. According to Fitzpatrick, they and now are working to build a hockey rink for the treatment centre with the money they are raising.

But more than being a way to raise money for the treatment centre, this was a chance for students to experience what it was like putting together an event of their own and experience the unexpected problems that can occur in the process.

“This first one here is just a very basic awareness event,” said Fitzpatrick

“It’s all about the students learning how long it took to set up the event and deal with problems like playing music, needing power, scheduling, how long it took to tear the event down at the end of the day,” said Fitzpatrick.

By the end of the event, students ended up raising over $5,342 and some of the booths said they had hundreds of people stop in throughout the day to participate in games and learn about the charity.

Update, Dec. 2: The amount raised, $5,342, was updated in the story when the final tally came in.

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Algonquin College’s women’s volleyball team sweeps George Brown

The Wolves' hitting prowess was on full display as they look to establish themselves as one of the top teams

Vasileios Tselios

Photos: Vasileios Tselios

November 29, 2025
Revised: November 29, 2025 3:35pm

Photo: Vasileios Tselios

Wolves hitter Carys Tenthorey hitting a spike in the Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre on Nov. 22.

The Algonquin College Wolves women’s volleyball team took down the visiting George Brown Huskies 3-0 on Nov. 22, improving to 5-1 in the season.

Sporting pink shorts for the Students’ Association Serve for the Cure, the Wolves won the game comfortably through their offensive output, both with kills and served aces.

The Wolves’ Carys Tenthorey and Chanel Ethier dominated the game, combining for 29 kills. Tenthorey had 16 kills and Ethier had 13 to outscore the entirety of the Huskies’ roster.

“I feel I did really well. They had kind of a shorter block, so I was able to go on top of them,” said Ethier. “Obviously, they’re a great defensive team. Finding the spots was tough, but I excelled, and I tried to do my best.”

Wolves hitter Chanel Ethier hitting a spike in the Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre on Nov. 22. Photo credit: Vasileios Tselios

Along with net contributions from Natasha Lauzon, Pasha Ormerod and Isabella Tourangeau, the Wolves overwhelmed the Huskies’ defence.

“My main goal was to close our block, so our defence could work around it. I thought that went pretty well, so I’m happy for myself on that,” said Ormerod.

The Wolves’ attack helped them navigate the small, rough patches they faced in the second and third set.

With her team up 11-9 in the second set, Tenthorey hit a kill to gain the serve back for Algonquin. She then served eight consecutive times as her power and accuracy overpowered the Huskies.

When the Huskies finally got the serve back, they regained momentum. They outscored the Wolves the rest of the way, but narrowly lost the set 25-21.

During this slump, Wolves head coach Everton Senior didn’t call a timeout, letting his players figure it out on the court.

“Sometimes, you just have to go with the flow of the game, and I feel like it wasn’t anything that they were doing, (the problem) was things we were doing,” explained Senior. “You just feel like the girls can figure things out on their own. It’ll make things that much better down the road if I’ve ever used two timeouts and we don’t have another one. They know they can figure things out.”

Wolves hitter Pasha Ormerod hitting a spike in the Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre on Nov. 22. Photo credit: Vasileios Tselios

The win over George Brown marked the fifth in a season where the Wolves once again are chasing the Durham Lords and the Seneca Sting in the East Conference.

“I think today was one of our better games. We kind of had a rough last weekend, but I think we’re doing good so far,” said Ethier.

The Wolves seem geared up to be competitive against any opponent. They are ranked sixth in the OCAA power rankings and the talent of the roster is apparent in the stats and on the court.

The Wolves lead all OCAA teams for points and digs per set, while they are second behind the Sting for served aces per set. Senior’s team is spreading the contributions: there are two Wolves in the top 25 for kills per set, four Wolves in the top 25 for digs per set and three Wolves in the top 25 for served aces per set.

“We’ve got a really strong offensive team. We’ve got the girls on the court, we’ve got some girls on the bench who are strong offensive players, and any one of them can go off at any time,” said Senior.

The Wolves match up well to any team on most statistics, but 3-0 losses to both the Lords and the Sting could be a sign of weakness against the OCAA heavyweights.

Senior believes the team can compete with anyone when playing to its full potential.

“It’s going to be a really tough weekend. We’re going to have to play our best volleyball of the year,” he said. “But if we do that, I feel like we can definitely compete and beat both those teams. It’s going to depend on how we play.”

Sports & Recreation

Vasileios Tselios

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Vasileios Tselios

First Person: Shock, Silence and Speaking Out: A Week in the Wake of Charlie Kirk’s Assassination

A student's experience being a conservative Christian on a college campus

Mickey Banks

Photos: Matthew Grieve

November 29, 2025
Revised: December 3, 2025 12:08pm

Photo: Matthew Grieve

While some celebrated Charlie Kirk's assassination, others despite not agreeing with him, refused to do so, notes the author.

When I was planning to go to Algonquin College, I had some apprehension due to my beliefs. As a conservative Christian, I had heard our views weren’t welcome on college campuses.

However, I believed the idea that we were hated was hyperbolic, that people simply disagreed with us.

This belief was shaken when, on Wednesday, Sept. 10, in the middle of class, a student blurted out that Charlie Kirk (a prominent conservative Christian) had been shot.

The atmosphere in the class changed. There was an almost jovial attitude in the air. Some students began making fun of Donald Trump’s call for prayer. Others laughed at the situation. One started talking along the lines of “well what do you expect,” as though he had it coming.

When I saw this, I didn’t know how to feel. I just sat there silently; sad he’d been shot but uncertain about how to react. During a break, I stepped outside the classroom with a student I’ll call Jeffrey, who was upset, saying their behaviour was unfitting for journalists.

When I got home, I learned Kirk had passed. I replayed the situation over in my head and realized they had rejoiced over a man’s death. I was disgusted, disturbed and angry.

Later, I called my mother to get her thoughts. The first thing she asked was, what did you say? Did you stand up for him?

Immediately I was hit with guilt. Here’s a Christian man who professed God in the public square and I didn’t defend him. I felt like a coward.

As we talked, my mom softened a bit. She said it sounded like I was in shock. Which made me feel better. I told myself maybe it wasn’t the right time to speak up. A cop out? Maybe, but it got me over my guilt for the time being.

That night, I didn’t sleep. I was wired, working at my computer when I could, pacing the floor when I couldn’t.

On Thursday, I begrudgingly went back to the campus. When I got there, I went out with a couple of other students to cover a union strike. On the way, they started talking about Kirk. They said they had no empathy for him, his wife and kids maybe, but not him. I thought to myself, should I say anything? Again, the guilt and uncertainty came back. I stayed silent and nothing else was said that day.

I still didn’t have any peace, but at about midnight, I finally got tired enough to sleep.

On Friday, some academic issues came up. Between these and the Kirk situation, I began planning to drop out.

On Saturday, I called Jeffrey. We spoke for about 20 minutes and I told him my plans. He said we’re close to graduating, just hang in there. He also advised me to call my parents. Between talking to them and Jeffrey, I decided not to quit.

On Monday, the academic issues got worked out.

On Wednesday, one week after the shooting, the class started talking about how people were getting fired for celebrating Kirk’s death. It became clear they were trying to justify them. A white-hot anger rose in me and I said these companies were right to fire them.

Then they began comparing Kirk to Adolf Hitler and Osama bin Laden. I responded, “He wasn’t a terrorist or genocidal.”

Later, we were doing a class exercise, hunting for news stories. I found one about Barack Obama condemning political violence and the professor let me read his quote to the class.

After this, none of them openly badmouthed Kirk again, which made coming to class more tolerable.

So, do people hate conservative Christians? Did these students? It felt that way to me but I’m not a mind reader and I didn’t ask.

Afterwards, I become guarded, only wanting to hang out with students like Jeffery, who didn’t agree with Kirk but were disappointed with the other students’ behaviour. A mindset I still wrestle with.

Elsewhere, I heard questions about Kirk’s character and what he represented.

I talked with Dean Skinner, my pastor at Bethel Church, who pointed to a reported increase in church attendance following Kirk’s assassination.

He quoted Matthew 7:20 “by their fruit, you shall know them.” He said the fruit of Kirk’s death wasn’t burning down buildings or rioting. It was people giving their lives to the Lord and dedicating themselves to him.

Like me, he found no evidence of racist or sexist behaviour from Kirk, noting how many things were taken out of context and that although he said a woman’s highest calling was being a mother and wife, he employed many women.

I believe Kirk’s legacy was trying to foster an open dialogue, being humble enough to listen to people you disagree with but bold enough to speak out. An example I endeavour to follow.

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