MTLQC – Montréal QC
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Good morning, Montréal! ☕

We hope your Monday is starting gently, because we have a nice mix of local, Olympic, and cultural stories to accompany you. No repetition, just the essentials to start the week off right. Let’s go.

📰 Main Story
Courtney Sarault wins silver in the 1000m short track
Canadian speed skater Courtney Sarault brought pure joy to fans this morning by stepping onto the second podium spot in the 1000m. It’s already her third podium in Italy, and she seems to be skating with ever-growing confidence. A beautiful way to start the day — and a reminder that Canada remains a powerhouse in short track.

⚡ Noteworthy
SAAQclic: the Gallant report finally released today
After months of waiting, postponements, and testimonies, Judge Denis Gallant is releasing his final report today on the SAAQclic fiasco. Severe criticism is expected regarding the management of the project, which could cost at least $1.1 billion by 2027. We’ll be following this closely.

Speed skating: the Canadians on a mission
Florence Brunelle, Kim Boutin, and Courtney Sarault are back on the ice today for the 1000m. After recent performances, expectations are high and so is confidence.

A life-sized snow horse in Kirkland
Artist Shufeng Zhang has struck again: in front of his house in Kirkland stands a life-sized horse sculpted entirely out of snow. Passersby slow down, smile, and take out their phones. A little dose of winter magic that feels good.

Tumbler Ridge: the crime scene finally analyzed
The RCMP has finished analyzing the scene at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. The school remains closed, and it’s still unknown when, or if, students will be able to return.

Robin Hood… Mauricie style
The activist group “Les Robins des ruelles” claims to have sabotaged logging operations in the Mauricie region, after recently conducting actions in Montreal grocery stores. A story that’s likely to get people talking.

🏠 Local
A sculpture, a neighborhood, a story
In Park Ex, author Andreas Kessaris continues to shine a light on his neighborhood with his book of essays and memories. We loved this so much we featured this twice. A love letter to a corner of Montréal that’s changing, but still keeps its soul.

Kid Koala moves from vinyl to the big screen
The Montreal DJ and artist presents Space Cadet, his first animated film, now in theaters. A new step for a creator who never stops surprising.

💙 Favorite
A young musician warming an entire country
At only 13 years old, Kairo Ellis continues to touch the hearts of Canadians with his tribute videos supporting the Tumbler Ridge community. When music becomes an act of solidarity, it deserves to be highlighted.

📋 Practical Corner
To watch this week

• Final report on SAAQclic (today)
• January inflation numbers (Tuesday)
• Women’s hockey semifinals at the Games
• Weather
  Cold but bright — a perfect Monday for a little walk if you can manage one.

📝 In Brief
Have a great week, Montréal. Take care of yourself, and we’ll see you tomorrow for more. ☀️