Page 82 – Algonquin Times

Wolves’ early-set struggles cost them, falling 3-2 against Seneca in women’s volleyball

After coming off a convincing win in their previous game against Fleming, the Wolves women’s volleyball team failed to carry the momentum and lost in a close 3-2 match against the Seneca Sting on Nov. 24. The game had one consistent theme for the Wolves, starting each set slowly. The Wolves had a 4-1 deficit […]

Andrew Sorokan

Photos: Andrew Sorokan

November 30, 2023
Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm

Photo: Andrew Sorokan

"It's disappointing that we couldn't pull through in the end. But overall I think we did ok, not our best game," said the Wolves' Grace Pate.

The game had one consistent theme for the Wolves, starting each set slowly. The Wolves had a 4-1 deficit in three of the five sets which proved to be enough to help Seneca sneak out a close win.

“I told the girls we are starting behind the eight ball on every match. It’s just not a good thing and we need to start better. I think we are better when we get out in front,” said Wolves head coach Everton Senior.

The game started back and forth. Seneca took the early 9-5 lead in the first set, but the Wolves bounced back quickly. Despite keeping the first set close and even taking a 15-14 lead at one point, Algonquin took the loss in the first set and came out a little flat to start in the second second set down 4-1.

But that quickly changed once the Wolves got going. They took a 7-6 lead and kept the momentum. The Wolves went on a 7-1 run to make the score 17-10 before continuing on to a 25-16 win in the second set.

The Wolves were led in kills by their left side Maddy Nadeau who put up 19 kills. Nadeau’s coach and teammates had high praise for her.

“(Nadeau) is insane with her kills. She can find any spot on the floor,” said Grace Pate, who plays right side for the Wolves

“She’s kind of our go-to player, and we expect her to score for us. She played well offensively. She actually had a pretty strong game,” said Senior.

But the team can’t only rely on one player.

“I thought (Pate) had a really strong game, but we need everyone kind of going. It can’t be one or two,” said Senior.

The third set was back and forth. Seneca got an early 4-1 lead just like in the second set, but the Wolves came back, winning it 25-22, making the match at 2-1 for the Wolves.

The fourth and fifth sets were similar; both were very close and Seneca ended up edging out a 25-23 win in the fourth and 15-13 in the fifth.

Going into the final set Seneca head coach Saba Seda had a strong message for his team.

“We are facing a really good Algonquin group so have fun, smile. Win or lose, honestly, I said both teams deserve to win, really one of them can win. We came five and a half hours so why don’t we take a win tonight,” said Seda.

Featured Story | Sports & Recreation

2023 | Seneca | Wolves | Women's volleyball

Andrew Sorokan

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Andrew Sorokan

Women’s volleyball Wolves put up persuasive win against Georgian after tough lost

The Wolves women’s volleyball team bounced back with a 3-1 win against the Georgian Grizzlies on Nov. 25 after a disappointing loss the previous night against the Seneca Sting. “Just because you lose one game doesn’t mean you can’t win the next,” said Wolves libero Emilie Menard, who played in all four sets of the […]

Justin Hancock-Lefebour

Photos: Justin Hancock-Lefebour

November 30, 2023
Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm

Photo: Justin Hancock-Lefebour

Middle Chloe Rodgers gets a tip over Grizzlies players. Rodgers finished the game with two kills and two digs.

The Wolves women’s volleyball team bounced back with a 3-1 win against the Georgian Grizzlies on Nov. 25 after a disappointing loss the previous night against the Seneca Sting.

“Just because you lose one game doesn’t mean you can’t win the next,” said Wolves libero Emilie Menard, who played in all four sets of the game.

Menard was satisfied with the effort in the last set to get the win.

“The whole set we we’re trying to take a little bit of a lead, and it was difficult,” said Menard. “I think once we get a few kills, we kind of turn it on, our energy goes up, and we just score more.”

The Wolves had a kill percentage of 51.9 per cent throughout the game, beating their average of 25.8 percent, while the Grizzlies were held to 26.4 per cent. The Wolves are third in kill percentage and number one in total kills this season.

“It was a lot of back and forth. I thought we held our nerve pretty well,” said head coach Everton Senior, referring to the fourth set. “We got that little bit of separations that got us near the end. I think we’re a pretty good side out volleyball team when we need to be.”

Senior said he wanted to make sure the team was prepared after the Wolves lost to the Stings on the prior evening.

“You’ve got to be able to wipe the slate when you finish with disappointment,” said Senior. “Last night was very disappointing. I’m personally still feeling it a little bit. You’ve got to be able to let things go because today is a new day, a new challenge, and Georgian is a good squad. We wanted to make sure we perform against them.”

Senior said the team is scratching the surface of where it needs to be, but isn’t fully at that level of play needed.

“If we can peak by playoff time that would be great but I’d say we’re probably at about B- in our play right now,” said Senior.

The Wolves have a 5-5 record and are scheduled to play next on Dec. 2 away against the Canadore Panthers.

Featured Story | Sports & Recreation

2023 | Georgian college | Wolves | Women's volleyball

Justin Hancock-Lefebour

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Explorer: Holiday events around town offer cheering lights, smells and merriment

The warm scent of cinnamon and mulled wine wafted through the grand hall in the Canadian Museum of History on Nov. 23 evoking memories of childhood festivities. Twinkling lights adorned every stand, weaving a magical glow that reflected in the eyes of eager attendees. This was no ordinary night at the museum. A delightful hint […]

Kerry Slack

Photos:

November 30, 2023
Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm

Yu Song, Yuling Guo and Vivianne Pan, Computer programming students, enjoy browsing the Christmas market after taking in the exhibits at the Canadian Museum of History on Nov. 23.

This was no ordinary night at the museum. A delightful hint of maple and cider fanned through the air, wrapping shoppers in its warm embrace.

The museum’s Christmas market hosted 80 vendors and lasted only four days, between Nov. 23 and Nov. 26.

Forty Algonquin College students descended into the museum on a field trip hosted by the AC Hub.

While hundreds of patrons attended the market, the Algonquin students toured the museum, prioritizing the exhibits over the market.

“I signed up because of the museum,” said Yu Song, a computer programming student. “The market is just extra.”

“The Canadian Hall of History was, wow, informative,” said Yuling Guo, a computer programming student. “I came for the museum exhibits, mostly.”

Emily Siletsky, a former Aboriginal studies student, also enjoyed the exhibits before attending the market.

“Today I learned about the origins of the canoes, and how they are built the same way a beaver swims,” said Siletsky. “Who knew?”

“I really enjoyed the ambiance of the Christmas market and baked treats. It brings one back to being a kid at Christmas,” said Siletsky.

For many Canadian kids, Christmas markets are reminiscent of childhood and the start of the holiday season. They can bring back memories of baking, holiday parties, concerts and good times with friends and family.

If you missed the event at the museum yet want to indulge in some Canadian holiday festivities, here are five other fun, holiday events to enjoy:

The Ottawa Christmas Market at Lansdowne

Experience the magic of Christmas at Lansdowne in Ottawa at the Ottawa Christmas Market.

Immerse yourself in a festive wonderland filled with artisanal crafts, delectable treats and holiday cheer. Browse through unique products, sip on hot cocoa and enjoy live entertainment including fun workshops for kids and adults. Don’t miss this enchanting holiday shopping experience.

Enjoy skating on the outdoor skating court open until 11 p.m. daily weather permitting.

Love a good selfie backdrop? Lansdowne is the place for you.

Christmas at Canada’s Parliament

A must-see for newcomers and Ottawans alike.

The iconic Parliament Hill transforms into a magical wonderland during the holiday season with Winter Lights Across Canada. Don’t miss the nightly sound and light show projected onto the Parliament Buildings creating an enchanting atmosphere. The nightly shows run from Dec. 1 to Dec. 24.

Christmas Lights Across Canada Location

Just a short walk from Parliament Hill, stroll through Confederation Park and its surrounding areas. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Winter Lights Across Canada, a spectacular outdoor light festival.

Wind your way through Confederation Park and witness the breathtaking illuminated displays, including dazzling light sculptures, interactive installations and captivating projections.

This magical transformation is perfect for a winter evening adventure. It runs from Dec. 5 to Jan. 7.

ByWard Market Christmas Market

Located in the heart of Ottawa’s historic ByWard Market, Christmas in the Byward Market showcases local artisans selling handcrafted gifts and delicious treats.

Nearby, you can visit the National Gallery of Canada, which offers free admission on Thursdays.

Merivale Mall Christmas Markets

A bit closer to campus Merivale Mall hosts the Nepean Night Market every second Saturday. In December this turns holiday themed.

Featuring crafts, soaps, woodwork, pottery and baked goods one is sure to find that perfect gift or even some self-gift giving and pampering.

Featured Story | Life

Christmas | Nostalgia | Off-campus

Kerry Slack

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Explorer: Ready to give roller skating a try? Here are 5 things to know

Imagine the feeling of smooth plastic wheels gliding against a polished wood floor while listening to live music with your friends. This is what roller-skating venue 4Wheelies in the old Ottawa Citizen building has to offer. If you already enjoy roller skating or would like to give it a try, here are five things you […]

Kit Gervais

Photos: Kit Gervais

November 29, 2023
Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm

Photo: Kit Gervais

Jaspreet Kaur, 4Wheelies marketing and social media specialist, poses outside of the masquerade ball event on Nov. 18.

Imagine the feeling of smooth plastic wheels gliding against a polished wood floor while listening to live music with your friends.

This is what roller-skating venue 4Wheelies in the old Ottawa Citizen building has to offer.

If you already enjoy roller skating or would like to give it a try, here are five things you need to know about the venue:

1. They’re beginner friendly

Markus Rennick, the manager of 4Wheelies, says they actually tend to get more beginners coming to their venue than pros. According to him, professional roller-skaters seem to have their own preferred spots to skate around the city.

The place has only been open since July 2023, so there’s still room to grow and gain a reputation.

2. You should wear protection

Rennick suggests wearing wrist guards every time you skate.

“No one ever wears wrist guards, but I recommend it. Our biggest injury is broken wrists, so that’s good for everyone,” he said.

Protecting yourself is the number one priority when taking on an activity like roller-skating.

Jaspreet Kaur, 4Wheelies marketing and social media specialist, agrees.

“Everyone under 12 needs to have a helmet,” Kaur said. “So that is very important. That is required. Without a helmet, they won’t get entry in there. We definitely recommend wearing security gear like knee and elbow pads, cause you can really easily get injured. We always recommend everyone else to wear helmets as well.”

Angela Ives Thurston, a guest and Ottawa Valley Roller Derby member, said she gets nervous when people don’t wear protective gear.

“It’s stressing me out so much when people who don’t have a lot of skating experience don’t wear helmets,” she said. “Because like, we’re trained to fall properly.”

As roller derby is a full-contact sport, they need vigorous training to prevent injuries.

Algonquin College professor Kim Bosch, right, and friend Stephanie Marhue, left, enjoying the 4Wheelies masquerade ball event. — Algonquin College professor Kim Bosch, right, and friend Stephanie Marhue, left, enjoying the 4Wheelies masquerade ball event on Nov. 18. Photo credit: Kit Gervais

3. The venue is set out to do unique roller-skating events

On Nov. 18, the venue hosted a roller-masquerade ball event. Between live music and fun lighting, they hope to give guests a unique experience.

Kaur explained they came up with the masquerade ball idea because who would think of roller-skating in masks and fancy dress.

“We wanted to have unique events every month, or every couple of months or so, that everyone can come and enjoy,” Kaur said. “Because like Ottawa has the tag of being so boring, right? So, we want to remove that.”

Coming up they’ll have a Winter Wonderland Party in December. “You combine some unique elements and then you combine what people really want.”

Rennick thinks they might be able to do outside events in the future.

“As far as like doing events outside of our facility, that’s maybe in the long term, but not the short term,” he said.

The Winter Wonderland Party and other upcoming events are up on their website.

4. The venue does birthday parties or corporate events too

The venue can host a variety of things, from roller-skating lessons to your niece’s birthday and even corporate team-building events. They’re closed on Mondays for corporate parties.

“We host corporate events on Mondays,” Rennick said. “So it’s usually a team building exercise for corporations, which means I’ll have someone here who will teach them how to skate and go through to go through the event.”

The events are typically to reduce stress in the workplace and provide time to relax. They have an arcade and party rooms for birthdays, along with the same live music as the other events.

They also provide roller-skating lessons to provide beginners with tips on how to skate for both adults and children.

5. Having fun is the goal

Most importantly, have fun roller skating. It can be a learning curve for some, hence the classes, but it’s a great experience to bond with friends and strangers alike.

“Know that they’re going to sweat,” Rennick said. “So, wear something that you can sweat in. If you’ve never done it before, you’re going to fall.”

“I do know that they’re going to have a good time,” Kaur said. “They’re going to enjoy good music, they’re going to have fun roller skating.”

Featured Story | Life

Kit Gervais

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How to get fresh produce for cheap as a student

Many have dealt with the rise of inflation one way or the other over the last couple of years, but for students in universities and colleges, the increase in the cost of living has really hit home. This is because groceries, fresh produce in particular, have been hit the hardest during this economically volatile time. […]

Brandon Plant

Photos: Brandon Plant

November 29, 2023
Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm

Photo: Brandon Plant

Algonquin College student, Aidan Wilkens, eats lunch at the ACCE cafeteria.

Many have dealt with the rise of inflation one way or the other over the last couple of years, but for students in universities and colleges, the increase in the cost of living has really hit home.

This is because groceries, fresh produce in particular, have been hit the hardest during this economically volatile time.

According to data posted by Statistics Canada in October, fresh vegetables saw the highest year-over-year inflation rate, reaching an increase of 18.4 per cent.

Fresh fruit also faced similar increases, albeit a bit less drastic, at an increase of 9.4 per cent . This is a considerable drop from a staggering 17.6 per cent inflation rate, according to a Statistics Canada report in May 2023.

But don’t let that drop fool you. Fresh produce is still being priced at drastically higher levels than just a few years ago.

This comes at a time when students are facing high levels of food insecurity, as 22.1 per cent of individuals between the ages of 16 and 24 are facing food insecurity, according to a Stats Canada report from Nov. 14, 2023.

The City of Ottawa’s Public Health Department also states that “food insecurity continues to persist in Ottawa. One in eight households in Ottawa are food insecure.”

Purchasing quality fresh produce, which is necessary to live a healthy lifestyle, has become increasingly difficult for students and young adults.

So what’s the answer?

Ahmed Elbadri, a student success specialist at Algonquin College, believes the key to budgeting is about prioritizing what you do and don’t need.

“There is a difference between needs and wants and it’s important to identify that for yourself,” Elbadri said.

Elbadri also believes that looking out for sales on items you need would also be helpful.

items on sale at loblaws — Sometimes you can find good deals on fresh produce at grocery stores if you're lucky. Photo credit: Brandon Plant

“Always keep a look out for deals and check all the flyers,” Elbadri said.

Aidan Wilkens, a first-year architectural technician student at Algonquin College, lives in the basement of his parent’s home, pays rent and buys his own groceries. He’s learned that buying produce at large quantity stores like Costco gives you better value overall.

“Costco is usually my go-to, they have a large quantity and their prices are generally reasonable. I usually avoid places like Independent or other smaller grocery stores because they really have upped their prices recently,” Wilkens said.

Aidan Wilkens eating lunch — Algonquin College student, Aidan Wilkens, eats lunch at the ACCE cafeteria. Photo credit: Brandon Plant

Wilkens also acknowledges that due to increased produce prices, the items he purchases while out shopping for groceries have changed.

“It’s definitely something that I’m conscious about now,” Wilkens said. “[When] buying something like meat, I will either opt to not buy that or choose to buy a smaller package than I normally would.”

As meat is expensive, he’ll focus on buying something like rice or less expensive products.

Another way students could save on fresh produce is by visiting the reduced items rack, that most large grocery stores have.

discount rack at loblaws — The discount item rack at the Loblaws in College Square, a good spot to find produce at a reduced price. Photo credit: Brandon Plant

These discount racks consist of fresh produce, often nearly half off, that are near expiry.

Although the produce won’t last as long as the items on the regular shelves, it’s a better bang for your buck if you’re pinching pennies, so it’s a great way to buy fresh and healthy produce at an affordable price.

Plus, according to Elbadri, there are ways to lengthen the expiry date of the produce.

“At times buying fresh and freezing it would be cost-effective and, most importantly, it’ll last,” Elbadri added.

While these methods will help students save some cash on fresh produce, that doesn’t necessarily mean the struggle is over. Wilkens has noticed his friends and fellow colleagues going out to eat far less, and he thinks it’s because of the cost of living these days.

“People who are living on their own, I never really see them go out to eat,” Wilkens said. “It’s about getting and prioritizing what you need, not what you want.”

Featured Story | Life

Food

Brandon Plant

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Mid-Week Memes

Take a break from the mid-week stress and enjoy these silly memes!

Emma Stronge

Photos:

November 28, 2023
Revised: November 28, 2023 12:29pm

Take a break from the mid-week stress and enjoy these silly memes!

Fun Stuff

Emma Stronge

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Music Monday

Emma Stronge

Photos:

November 28, 2023
Revised: November 28, 2023 12:24pm

F!TH (pronounced “fith”) is a Canadian Hard Rock band from Ottawa, Ontario. They are made up of Lead vocalist Vinny Belle, guitarists Alex Gregory and Max Gibson, Devon James on bass, and Zane Bean on drums. The group is heavily influenced by 2000s punk rock. They draw inspiration from acts like Linkin Park, Alexisonfire and Billy Talent. F!TH’s music is a perfect mixture of explosive and high-paced production and catchy lyrics. The bands kept busy, releasing two singles “DEAD” and “Rock & A Hard Place” in early 2023, followed by their self-titled EP on March 31st. Their most recent single “Another Day“ came out on November 24th. Check it out below. If you want to check out F!TH they’ll be performing at Club Saw at 67 Nicholas Street this Friday, December 1st at 8 pm. Follow their socials below!

Check out the band: https://www.instagram.com/fith_music/

Check out their newest song ‘Another Day’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXdiXv_0iIE

Fun Stuff

Emma Stronge

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The Wolves hand Georgian Grizzlies first loss of the season in a 3-0 sweep

The Wolves men’s volleyball team took down the top-seeded Georgian Grizzlies on Nov. 25 in a convincing sweep, handing the Grizzlies their first loss of the season. “We definitely came into this game with a chip on our shoulder cause they’re the top seed,” said Wolves setter Jacob Matheson, who scored eight points, going five […]

Justin Hancock-Lefebour

Photos: Justin Hancock-Lefebour

November 28, 2023
Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm

Photo: Justin Hancock-Lefebour

Left side Mahmoud Abdelaziz spikes the ball away from the Grizzlies. Abdelaziz finished with nine kills out of 15 attacks.

The Wolves men’s volleyball team took down the top-seeded Georgian Grizzlies on Nov. 25 in a convincing sweep, handing the Grizzlies their first loss of the season.

“We definitely came into this game with a chip on our shoulder cause they’re the top seed,” said Wolves setter Jacob Matheson, who scored eight points, going five of five on kills. “Guys just walked in with a chip on their shoulder having something to prove, where as yesterday guys were sort of walked in less prepared mentally.”

The Wolves lost 3-0 to Seneca the previous day.

The win against the Grizzlies was the seventh sweep of the season for the Wolves, tied for most in the league. The Wolves are now two points from the first-seeded Grizzlies.

“We’re obviously very happy it was a great game,” said head coach Jelle Kooijman after watching his team defeat the Grizzlies. “We played very well, and we put everything together, so always happy with that. I think what we showed today is both in our resilience. When we really want something, then we play very well.”

Kooijman said he’d preferably not have to comeback from such a bad game, and would prefer to see the team play like this in every game.

“I think we were talking with the team, it’s a win with a bittersweet edge just because I would like to not comeback from a game like yesterday,” said Kooijman. “When you face adversity, when you face failure, then it’s always how you react, and we reacted really well today.”

Kooijman said the team’s ceiling is really high and they just need to figure out how to achieve that ceiling every single game.

“We can put up a really high level of volleyball, and that’s what this group can really do,” said Kooijman.

The Wolves are scheduled to play an away match on Dec. 2 against the Canadore Panthers.

Featured Story | Sports & Recreation

Justin Hancock-Lefebour

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Wolves men’s volleyball team suffers 3-0 loss against Seneca

The Algonquin Wolves men’s volleyball team lost 3-0 against Seneca College on Nov. 24, but bounced back the next night against Georgian College with a big win. The stands at the Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre were full of cheering, laughter and stomping before Wolves match against Seneca. During the first set, both teams […]

Blaire Waddell

Photos: Blaire Waddell

November 28, 2023
Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm

Photo: Blaire Waddell

The Wolves' Mahmoud Abdelaziz (left at the net), Pras Jeyapalasingham (middle) and Martin Janega (right) block the ball against Seneca College on Nov. 24

The Algonquin Wolves men’s volleyball team lost 3-0 against Seneca College on Nov. 24, but bounced back the next night against Georgian College with a big win.

The stands at the Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre were full of cheering, laughter and stomping before Wolves match against Seneca.

During the first set, both teams were evenly matched, with Connor Finnie, who plays middle, tallying several blocks against Seneca. However, the Wolves lost the set 25-23.

“It’s a super nice feeling getting a block and a big momentum changer for the team. It also feels like you’re stomping on the opponent a bit and reversing the flow,” said Finnie. “At the start, I was much better at blocking, but I would like to be better at the end. It’s something to improve on and was a strong point for us.”

During the second set, the Wolves were down 23-16 and mounting a comeback, but ended up losing the set 25-20.

“It’s a tough loss for the guys. We battled them back and forth last year, and we dropped our first game against them and then pulled back into our home match in our second semester. We are hoping to do the opposite for them this year,” said Ryan Lincoln, the Wolves’ outside player.

During the third and final set, the Wolves brought the heat but lost 26-24.

Scores per set during the Algonquin vs Seneca College men's volleyball game on Nov.24 — Scores per set in the Algonquin Wolves vs. Seneca Sting men's volleyball game on Nov. 24.

The Wolves came into the game after winning the previous two games 3-0 against both Durham and Fleming College.

“Losing is tough, but it is something we talk about a lot. The simple message is to be frustrated for half an hour, and then we gotta move on,” said coach Jelle Kooijman.

On Nov. 25, the Algonquin Wolves played Georgian College and won all three sets.

Featured Story | Sports & Recreation

2023 | Men's volleyball | Seneca | Wolves

Blaire Waddell

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Ontario’s minimum wage increased last month. Here’s what Algonquin College students are saying

Last month, the Ontario minimum wage increased from $15.50 to $16.55 an hour in an effort to offset the increasing costs of living, but Algonquin College students aren’t exactly celebrating. Ali Albaawadh, who bartends at both the Algonquin College Ottawa campus bars, said the increase is “bittersweet.” “If you told me I would have gotten […]

Meg Wall

Photos: Meg Wall

November 28, 2023
Revised: January 30, 2024 3:36pm

Photo: Meg Wall

"I don't see the biggest point on why they did it," Courtney Kittmer said. "We're kind of at the same spot as we were."

Last month, the Ontario minimum wage increased from $15.50 to $16.55 an hour in an effort to offset the increasing costs of living, but Algonquin College students aren’t exactly celebrating.

Ali Albaawadh, who bartends at both the Algonquin College Ottawa campus bars, said the increase is “bittersweet.”

“If you told me I would have gotten a raise for $1.50, I would have been happy,” said Albaawadh. “But just as a minimum wage, it still doesn’t seem as good. It doesn’t do as much to show that we’re being valued. And things are inflating at a faster pace than we’re getting raises. And it’s hard to keep up.”

Monte McNaughton, Ontario’s Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, said in a statement in March that the minimum wage increase “is a fair and balanced approach” for Ontarians to have “more money in their pockets.”

On Oct. 1, the Ontario minimum wage was increased from $15.50 to $16.55 an hour in an effort to offset the increasing costs of living, but students are reportedly still struggling to keep their heads above water. Data sourced from Ontario Living Wage Network and Statistics Canada. Photo credit: Meg Wall

Business administration student Djibril Fall, who works part-time at the Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre, said he still finds himself stressed out financially.

“Minimum wage before had rarely done much in terms of staying above water and I think the jump is not that significant,” said Fall.

Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre employees Djibril Fall (left) and Adam Voutier (right). Photo credit: Meg Wall

In July 2023, Statistics Canada reported 53.5 per cent of students and other persons aged 15 to 24 were employed in Ontario, down from 54.8 per cent the previous year.

Early childhood education student Courtney Kittmer, who works as a supervisor at the Wolves Den restaurant, also hasn’t found much of a difference since the increase.

“I don’t see the biggest point on why they did it,” Kittmer said. “We’re kind of at the same spot as we were.”

Other provinces across Canada also saw their minimum wage increase this past year. Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador raised their minimum wages to $16.55 per hour, while Saskatchewan’s minimum wage was raised to $14 per hour.

“It’s almost like we were making what we were supposed to make in the first place,” Fall said.

Featured Story | News

Inflation | Students