Montreal QC ☕ The morning chat
Good morning, Montreal.
We start the day with news that touches everyone: heavy rain is set to hit the metropolis. We also mark the passing of a major figure in Quebec’s media landscape, and we look at issues that affect your wallet, your health, and your commute.
Top Story
Jean-Luc Mongrain dies at 75, leaving a legacy of indignation and closeness
Journalist and host Jean-Luc Mongrain passed away on October 11 from cancer at the age of 75. His son confirmed the news. Over more than 50 years, he left his mark on Quebec’s media scene, first in regional radio and television, then at the helm of the public affairs show “Mongrain de sel.”
But it was as the face of news at TQS (now Noovo) that he became a household name, hosting “Le grand journal” for nine years. His no-holds-barred style and memorable rants built a unique image where indignation met humour. He later moved to LCN with the daily show “Mongrain,” before turning to documentaries in 2015 with “Guilty or Sick,” and then to podcasting in 2021 with “Mongrain en balado.”
Throughout his career, he won 18 Artis awards, including best news and public affairs host. He was also a key ambassador for the Breakfast Club of Quebec, leading the “Jean-Luc Mongrain cup” fundraising campaign for several years.
The political class reacted to his death. Premier-designate Paul St-Pierre Plamondon called him “a unique and colourful character,” noting “the healthy anger” he could show on screen, an indignation “in tune with listeners.” Outgoing Premier Christine Fréchette wrote that “Quebec has lost a major figure in its media landscape.”
Around Town
Montrealers rally for India
About a dozen people gathered Monday in downtown Montreal to show solidarity with protests in India, where thousands of demonstrators have been detained after challenging controversial revisions to electoral rolls. The event was organized by the South Asian Diaspora Action Collective and the Center for Study and Research in South Asia.
Among the protesters, Bhaskar, born in India and settled in Montreal in 2018, said it was “very, very painful” to see “flagrant violations of democratic principles.” Najmi, who has lived in Montreal for over 20 years, explained that government agents were going door-to-door asking for documents proving citizenship, and her family was waiting to see if they would keep their voting rights.
India’s Election Commission has removed more than 130 million names from voter lists in recent months, nearly 10% of the population. Opposition parties say the changes disproportionately erased voters opposed to the ruling party, which the Indian government denies. The “Cockroach Janata Party” youth movement is leading the protests, and its leaders, released Sunday, have promised to continue.
Man injured in Ville-Marie
A 44-year-old man was taken to hospital Monday morning after being wounded with a sharp object near the intersection of Peel and De Maisonneuve streets in the Ville-Marie borough. SPVM officers received a call around 9:15 a.m. and found the victim with injuries to the upper body. According to initial reports, an altercation involving two or more people preceded the attack. The investigation continues.
To Remember
Heavy rain hits Greater Montreal
Environment Canada has issued a rain warning for Montreal, Vaudreuil, and Montérégie, with amounts expected of 40 to 60 millimetres on Tuesday. Rain will begin in the morning and continue into the evening, with possible accumulation on roads and low-lying areas, as well as reduced visibility at times. A nearly stationary warm front associated with a low-pressure system south of the border is causing these bands of intense rain. In the Eastern Townships, a special bulletin forecasts 30 to 50 millimetres.
Measles reported at airport and Sainte-Justine hospital
Montreal’s regional health authority has reported a new measles case in a child. The child was at Montreal-Trudeau airport on the evening of October 9 and then at Sainte-Justine hospital’s emergency room on the morning of October 10 while contagious. People who were at those locations during those times may be considered contacts. Public health asks these individuals to monitor for symptoms and to seek preventive treatment if they are not vaccinated. Those exposed and unprotected must isolate. Text messages or calls may be sent by the regional health authority with recommendations.
Canadiens: A French-speaking trio that does good
The all-French-speaking line of Texier-Danault-Bolduc is doing wonders for the Canadiens, according to the experts. Their chemistry on the ice and offensive production are praised as the team looks to build positive momentum early in the season.
Alouettes dominate Roughriders
Davis Alexander threw five touchdowns and surpassed 5,000 passing yards this season, leading the Montreal Alouettes to a 44-24 victory over the Saskatchewan Roughriders on Monday afternoon in the Thanksgiving Day classic. Alexander joins Anthony Calvillo as the only quarterback in Alouettes history to reach that milestone. Montreal (13-3) finished the regular season undefeated at home for the third time, before a sold-out crowd of 23,035 at Molson Stadium. The Alouettes, who have already clinched first place in the East Division, will host the East Final on November 7.
Practical Corner
Check the downpours before heading out
With rain amounts expected between 40 and 60 millimetres on Tuesday, it’s wise to plan for waterproof clothing and stay alert to road conditions, especially in low-lying areas. Visibility may be reduced at times, so drive with extra caution.
Measles: What to do if you were there?
If you were at Montreal-Trudeau airport on the evening of October 9 or at Sainte-Justine’s emergency room on the morning of October 10, watch for symptoms like high fever, cough, runny nose, or a rash. Unvaccinated individuals should seek preventive treatment and self-isolate. Public health may contact you by text or phone.
Coupe de Coeur
The mobilization of Montrealers of Indian origin, who braved the cold and uncertainty to denounce attacks on democratic rights in their home country, reminds us that solidarity knows no borders. Their determination to make their voices heard, despite the risks, is a fine example of civic engagement.
In Closing
Wishing you a dry day, with an umbrella at hand and a little softness despite the rain. Take care of yourself and others, and see you tomorrow for another chat. ☕