The two-month long GST/HST holiday was meant to make things more affordable for consumers. Some small businesses were hoping to see a boost in sales, but midway through the break, that doesn’t seem to be the case.

Streaming guide JustWatch has revealed the top 10 movies streaming in Canada. Topping the charts is Coralie Fargeat’s satirical body-horror film The Substance, starring Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley, which is streaming now in Canada on MUBI.

“Have you ever dreamt of a better version of yourself? You, only better in every way. You should try this new product, it’s called The Substance. IT CHANGED MY LIFE. With The Substance, you can generate another you: younger, more beautiful, more perfect. You just have to share time — one week for one, one week for the other. A perfect balance of seven days each… Easy right? If you respect the balance… What could possibly go wrong?”

In second and third place are Juror #2 (Crave) and Woman of the Hour (Netflix).

For previous updates on the most popular movies and TV shows streaming in Canada right now, please click here.

For our latest in film and TV, please visit our Film & TV section.

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As wildfires rage in the Los Angeles area, Quebec's aerial service is on site lending a hand. The team's head pilot says he's never seen anything quite like the chaos he's witnessed in the densely populated area.

Ghislain Picard, who headed the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador (AFNQL) for more than 30 years, will not seek another mandate. 

Watching Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau deliver his announcement that he was stepping down as Liberal leader and staying on as PM until a new leader is chosen in front of Rideau Hall on a blustery winter day gave me intense flashbacks of covering his almost-daily COVID-19 updates back in the thick of the pandemic. 

For a prime minister who’s often easily prone to emotion and flowery language, his announcement was measured, controlled and brief. Watching it, I felt a mix of sadness, disappointment, frustration, even anger, and solid apprehension for the unknown.

From ‘Sunny Ways’ to ‘Get Out of the Way’

When Trudeau said that it’s time “for a reset” and for “the temperature to go down,” by removing himself from the equation he accurately pointed to the vitriol that he’s — often inexplicably — been on the receiving end of. It came not only from Canadians concerned about the future, but mostly from those who have long been fed a steady diet of disinformation, whose many grievances often stem from suspicion of science and a constantly changing world they can’t keep up with. Online foreign interference and rampant populism have created groups who have sadly made hating Trudeau their entire personality. 

The “F*ck Trudeau” crowd certainly won’t see anything redeeming about his administration, and it’s personally hard to take people who call this government “tyrannical” and Trudeau a “dictator” seriously. But let’s forget the “Freedom Rally” truckers, the anti-vaxxers and the conspiracy theory folks for a minute.

What about the majority of Canadians simply wanting a different government? Because poll after poll clearly indicates that the Liberals are cooked.

Let’s face it. A decade is a long time in politics, and any leader — no matter how popular at one point —has a shelf life. The world in 2025 is a far more complex and troubled world than the one in which Trudeau and the Liberals won a majority government in 2015. No former PM has had to deal with the level of online toxicity, deliberate disinformation and post-pandemic vitriol one currently observes. 

A flawed but decent political leader

Was Justin Trudeau a good prime minister? 

Despite many setbacks and a few glaring disappointments, much of Trudeau’s legacy remains a fairly decent one. He led the country with compassion and a clear head during the pandemic, ensuring Canadians had something to fall back on with CERB. During those scary and unprecedented times, Trudeau’s steady hand and almost daily updates at Rideau Hall, as well as his unwavering trust in science and vaccines, allowed many of us to stay safe and breathe a sigh of relief, while south of the border and in the U.K. many needlessly died under anti-science leadership.

And while some might think that Trudeau’s approach to the convoy “freedom fighters” who wreaked havoc in Ottawa and on Parliament Hill was too heavy-handed, most Canadians agree with the federal government cracking down on them with the use of the Emergencies Act. I’m thankful he shut down a movement hijacked and largely funded by foreign interests and racist grifters. It was a movement that had the potential to create our own January 6th insurrection and the violence that came with it. Those calling that a “dictatorship” should perhaps reopen their history books. 

First, the good stuff. 

Aside from his solid pandemic response, Trudeau’s administration supported gender equity and women’s safety with important moves like upping paid leave for victims of family violence to 10 days and axing the two-year marriage time requirement for people sponsored by a spouse for immigration purposes, which sometimes forced women to remain in violent relationships. These are not minor things for victims of gender-based violence, even though more investments were needed for emergency shelters. 

While Harper’s Conservatives stripped funding from organizations like rape crisis centres and slashed budgets for gender equity, and Trump trampled on American women’s reproductive freedoms, Trudeau always made it clear that he was a feminist and would always vote in favour of a woman’s fundamental rights and reproductive freedom. I will always be grateful for a political leader who makes that clear — even if some of his work relationships with his female colleagues turned to shit. 

In sharp contrast, many in the Conservative Party of Canada are vocally anti-choice, and Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre had no qualms recently going on Jordan Peterson’s podcast, a Conservative pundit with many questionable views, funded by — among other sponsors — anti-abortion organizations. As a woman, I’m paying attention.

Social progress happened 

In true Liberal fashion, Trudeau often campaigned left of centre while essentially leading a centre right party. Regardless, and often with the NDP’s support, social progress happened. 

$10-a-day daycare, cutting taxes for anyone making less than $100,000 (that’s most of us), the Canada Child Benefit (which lifted hundreds of thousands of Canadian children out of poverty), carbon tax rebates (a system that works and benefits Canadians, according to experts, despite Poilievre’s “Axe the Tax” silly slogans), the school lunch program, and more recently, the Pharmacare and Dental Care programs, which are just as much the NDP’s legacy.

The Trudeau administration legalized cannabis, had a pretty ambitious (though not always successful) climate change policy, instituted medically assisted death (MAID), and was a true ally for the LGBTQ+ community, fighting hard for their rights. Trudeau banned conversion therapy and was often vilified as “too woke” by his political opponents for defending minority rights. 

He also lifted 144 long-term boil-water advisories in Indigenous communities, with active long-term drinking water advisories on First Nations dropping by 73% since 2015. None were lifted under Harper. 

Ottawa invested in housing for low-income Canadians, even though it’s primarily a provincial responsibility. This is something Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante pointed out, thanking Trudeau for his government’s “support for the construction of non-market housing and the fight against poverty.” Internationally, he handled Trump’s first term and his bullying tactics quite well.

Trudeau also lowered the retirement age back to 65 after Harper raised it to 67. Poilievre, who qualified for his MP pension that’s worth an estimated $120,000 per year when he was only 31, has tried hard to brand himself as an anti-elite everyman, was right there voting for that increase, too.

And while Poilievre’s caucus recently supported a Bloc Québécois motion calling for the Liberal government to support a BQ private member’s bill to increase Old Age Security (OAS) by 10% for seniors aged 65 to 74, it was clearly more of a pressure tactic against the Liberals than an honest policy choice. Poilievre never committed to following through on that legislation if he became prime minister. 

Bad moves and scandals

Of course, the Trudeau administration made some godawful moves and was embroiled in some major ethics scandals, revealing questionable behaviour behind the scenes, while those who challenged Trudeau were often strongarmed, undermined and/or demoted. I’m looking at you, Jody Wilson-Raybould, Jane Philpott and Chrystia Freeland. Memo to Justin: the catch in promoting strong competent women is that they’re going to call you out when you’re failing to live up to your promises. 

His immigration policy was often wonky, and he lacked conviction when anti-immigration sentiments started spiking, reversing important, humane decisions, while his housing policy was perhaps too little, too late. Trudeau also often failed to show enough empathy for people’s deep concerns over affordability, choosing to minimize, which left the door open for grievances that a populist politician could exploit. 

One of Trudeau’s biggest failings and one he said he regretted during his announcement was not working on electoral reform, which elicited a tired chuckle from me since he had years to fulfill it. 

At a certain point, collective angst boiled over and many Canadians decided that Trudeau was going to become their favourite punching bag.

Good news and bad hombres

Despite the handwringing, the Canadian economy grew in 2024, and even though many Canadians are concerned about the growing deficit, Canada continues to have the best credit rating, AAA, from two of the three rating agencies. Among the G7 countries, only Germany has a credit rating as good. So, while times are tough, Canada has weathered the post-pandemic storm better than others. In fact, recent data points to a slight decrease in Canadians’ gloomy outlook for the country’s economic future. Of course, that doesn’t mean Canadians aren’t worried.

One thing is certain: Those adamantly convinced that what mostly ails the country is Justin Trudeau and the Liberals may soon find out that that is not the case at all. Much of what is afflicting Canada is also affecting most of the globe. And I don’t think the cavalry is coming in the shape of a man who refuses to get a top-level security clearance to receive classified briefings on foreign interference. A man who couldn’t even make a live appearance to issue a statement about the PM’s resignation but chose — once again — cheap theatrics via a taped message with an ominous soundtrack playing in the background. Poilievre has worked hard to amplify the far-right narrative depicting Trudeau as a “tyrant,” and he may find himself at a loss for catchy slogans now that his favourite target is gone.

I wish more Canadians were paying attention to the foreign interference operations currently taking place, aiming to destabilize Canada and often pushing a right-wing agenda. It’s not accidental that Conservative media personalities like Jordan Peterson and Gad Saad are fangirling over Poilievre and Trump, and dangerous oligarchs like Elon Musk are openly rejoicing over Trudeau’s resignation while Trump is escalating his threats against our country. These are not people invested in Canadians’ best interests. 

What’s next for Canada?

Was Trudeau’s tenure a perfect one? Of course not. Point to any government in power for a decade that hasn’t made mistakes, or a politician who’s delivered on all promises. However, many of the issues that disenfranchised Canadians are frustrated by — inflation, high cost of living, housing shortages, post-pandemic economic uncertainty — have less to do with his leadership and more with the challenges of our times and corporate greed. 

While the Liberals could certainly have been more proactive earlier in seeking solutions for some of what ails us, we need strong, hands-on, progressive leadership and that requires far more than just ranting. Mud-slinging and smarmy slogans are easy to come by. It’s much harder to be in the driver’s seat and make delicate decisions to address very complex problems.

Poilievre may soon find that out. Or not. Trudeau’s resignation has opened the door to brand-new contenders, allowing those who support centre-progressive policies the opportunity to vote for someone other than him.

We’ll soon see.

I still remember the overwhelming sense of optimism and the possibility of “sunny ways” that Trudeau’s win signaled in 2015. Much, of course, didn’t materialize, but much did. 

Politics is a thankless job, and like Isaac Newton told us, what goes up must come down. Many politicians start off as heroes, inevitably reach that point where they disappoint everyone and become zeros, and once enough time has passed, their legacy is assessed a bit more rationally — both their strengths and shortcomings acknowledged. Few long-serving, elected political leaders are as good or as bad as we make them out to be. 

Whoever is next in line for the political throne will soon have the opportunity to prove that. ■

Read more weekly editorial columns by Toula Drimonis.

The post Justin Trudeau’s legacy: Real social progress, political imperfection, downfall by disinformation appeared first on Cult MTL.

In a bid to boost ticket sales during the dead of winter, Canadian movie theatre chain Cineplex announced this week that they’re bringing back $5 Tuesdays, from Jan. 14 to Feb. 11. Tickets and popcorn will be sold for $5 (apiece) on Tuesdays during that period, and tickets will cost $3.99 for family films on Saturdays.

Special deals on games and food are also available at the Rec Room, the arcade attached to Montreal’s newest Cineplex movie theatre at the Royalmount mall.

For Cineplex showtimes in Montreal, please visit their website.

For our latest in film and TV, please visit the Film & TV section.

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I remember sitting down with a cup of coffee, a novel I had wanted to read for months, only to hear my inner critic whisper, “Shouldn’t you do something productive?” This thought nags at many of us, which often steals the joy that comes from reading. Studies show that adults now spend less time reading for pleasure, caught up in endless digital distractions. Why do we feel guilty about something so good for us? Let’s explore this in our article and find out how to enjoy pleasure reading without the burden of guilt.

Why reading for pleasure matters

Reading for fun has real value in our lives. It improves mental health, sparks creativity, and supports lifelong learning. Let’s see how it impacts us:

● Mental health benefits. Reading helps lower stress and clears the mind. A study from the University of Sussex found that just six minutes of reading can reduce stress by 68%. When you pick up a book, your mind finds calm and focus;

● Boosts creativity and empathy. Fiction opens up whole new worlds. It helps us imagine more and understand different feelings. Researchers at the New School found that reading fiction improves empathy by helping readers connect with characters’ emotions and experiences;

● Supports lifelong learning. New technologies help people fit this activity into their busy lives. For instance, Headway book summaries are a great option when time is limited, as users can enjoy stories or learn something new. This approach keeps interest in learning alive, so people continue to explore new ideas and knowledge at their own pace.

The guilt of leisure reading

Many people face a feeling that they must remain busy at all times. Society often tells us to always be productive and chase goals, which leaves little room for simple joys. A sense of guilt can arise when we sit down with a book rather than engage in tasks deemed more important. But why do we carry this guilt? Isn’t relaxing with a book also a productive way to nurture our minds?

The guilt associated with leisure activities stems from the idea that time spent on them has no value. Yet, this mindset neglects how relaxation helps recharge us. Taking breaks improves concentration and adds fresh ideas to our thoughts. When we read for fun, our minds rest and refuel, ready for new challenges.

Leisure helps creativity grow. It may seem unimportant compared to daily tasks, but it holds hidden benefits. Earned time off leads to better work habits; you can return with renewed focus and energy after stepping away from routines.

So ask yourself: Is skipping leisure truly a wise choice? Or does reading quietly benefit us more than society lets on? The answer seems clear once you view how these moments add depth beyond constant action and busyness.

Tips for embracing leisure reading

It often feels hard to find time to explore new books, but small changes make it easier to enjoy. To build this habit, focus on simple steps that fit into your daily routine. Explore some tips below:

● Start small. Begin with short stories or essays if you find novels overwhelming. Apps like Headway provide quick book summaries that you can read in minutes. This baby-step approach helps ease you into reading without feeling burdened by lengthy books;

● No-pressure zones. Set up a cozy corner at home where you can relax with a book. Keep a book in your bag and read during commutes or while waiting in line. Having books nearby makes you turn spare moments into peaceful times;

● Diversify. Try different genres like memoirs, thrillers, or poetry to keep things fresh. Each new story offers something unique and keeps engagement high;

● Flexible formats. Use audiobooks if listening fits better with your schedule than reading does. Explore eBooks for easy access on your smartphone or tablet. Traditional physical books also provide tactile joy and can become treasured items in your collection.

Leveraging community

A shared love for books can enrich the reading experience when you connect with others. Book clubs give people a chance to meet with other readers. Members talk about stories, share thoughts, and explore ideas in a friendly setting. These meetings allow everyone to learn from each other’s views.

Social sharing is another way to engage with fellow book lovers. Platforms like Goodreads or Instagram let you post reviews or updates on books you read. Followers and friends join in by commenting and suggesting new reads, which leads to lively discussions. These interactions add joy to reading by building a community among readers worldwide.

Addressing barriers to reading

Many face obstacles in reading, but there are some tips to overcome them. Time management plays a key role; setting aside 10-15 minutes daily helps build a routine. Even a short, dedicated time can make reading part of everyday life.

Distractions often hinder focus. Creating a distraction-free zone or using noise-canceling headphones for audiobooks can enhance concentration. Such environments help keep attention on the story.

Interest in a book may sometimes wane if it feels overwhelming. Using summaries before delving into the full text reignites curiosity. Summaries offer a snapshot and help decide whether to commit fully to the book.

Exploring the role of technology

Technology now plays a big role in how we enjoy books. While screens often distract us, they also give tools that support reading for pleasure. Devices and apps can help people fit moments of reading into their days, making it easier to dive into stories.

One such app, Headway, allows busy readers to keep up with books through short summaries. It covers both personal development and fiction works. For those who want to explore new topics or unwind with tales, Headway offers a way to do so without spending too much time.

Embrace guilt-free reading today

Letting yourself read for fun isn’t just a leisure activity – it’s an act of self-care and growth. With it, you’ll be able to break free from guilt and enjoy the peace a book brings to your life. Challenge yourself: pick up a book or explore a summary on Headway, and start today. You don’t need permission to enjoy reading – just start and watch how it enriches your life with calm and creativity.

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The panellists and the books they choose to champion will be revealed on Jan. 23.

A man in his 50s is dead following a violent altercation in Longueuil, on Montreal's South Shore. The suspect, a man in his 60s, has been arrested.

A Quebec organization is launching an app which compiles information about the tides, cargo schedules and ice conditions, including thickness, to help keep anglers safe while out on the water in Saguenay, Que.

Government figures show photo radars set up to fine drivers speeding through construction sites are bringing in record revenue.

Gold medal wins and big-ticket sponsorship haven't translated to revenues for Canada Soccer. Here's why.

This mini-forest project in Montreal’s Jarry Park started in 2021. It’s branching out this year and encouraging people to leave notes with well wishes on the tree branches in honour of the park’s 100th anniversary.

Hornibrook champions sustainable farming for Madagascar’s revival

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Lennoxville resident Chris Hornibrook is spearheading a mission to transform agriculture in Madagascar, one of the world’s most food-insecure nations. Through the “Madagascar Soul & Soil Revival” project, Hornibrook, in partnership with Christian-based organizations ImpactHope and Foundations for Farming International (FfF), aims to train one million small-scale farmers by 2028, combating hunger and fostering self-sufficiency.

“I met the leaders of Madagascar’s food security program in South Africa in early 2024,” Hornibrook recounted. “They’ve been tasked by the president to feed the nation in four years. Partnering with FfF was a natural fit.”

A local connection with global impact

Hornibrook’s journey into sustainable farming began in 2010, following a sabbatical in Africa where he witnessed FfF’s innovative agricultural practices firsthand. Upon returning to Canada, his family initiated a local garden project, which eventually grew into a broader vision. What started with two refugee students at Bishop’s University planting a garden now thrives as a community initiative, managed by a local women’s centre and supported by volunteers.

“None of us would be here without those six inches of topsoil,” he said. “The soil is life, and the soul—our overall well-being—is deeply connected to it. It’s about creating spaces where people can get their hands dirty, have meaningful conversations, and feel healthier.”

Hornibrook’s passion for soil health is evident in his advocacy for natural farming methods. “We avoid pesticides and fertilizers, relying on compost and zero tillage,” he explained. “This helps keep the soil alive and fertile, producing amazing food.”

Training farmers to transform communities

The “Madagascar Soul & Soil Revival” project focuses on training 100 farmers who will each teach others, creating a multiplier effect that could transform the nation’s agricultural landscape. Hornibrook emphasized the critical role of local trainers in ensuring the project’s success. “We’re raising $250,000 over four years to support trainers handpicked for their excellence. These trainers deliver the knowledge and inspire others to do the same.”

The training includes foundational agricultural techniques, such as proper seed management, spacing, and soil preservation. Hornibrook highlighted the challenges faced by Madagascar’s farmers. “In the past, seeds weren’t planted on time or at the right depth. Weed management was poor, and soil wasn’t protected properly,” he said. “Foundations for Farming has been teaching farmers for 40 years to address these gaps.”

Hornibrook is particularly inspired by the initiative’s emphasis on sustainability and empowerment. “The trainers don’t just teach; they build relationships with the farmers. It’s about creating long-term resilience and independence.”

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L’article Soil and soul est apparu en premier sur Sherbrooke Record.

Highlights from the Hatley Township council meeting

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Hatley Township council met on Jan. 7 at the municipality’s town hall, with Mayor Vincent Fontaine presiding over the session. Five residents attended, bringing questions and concerns about infrastructure, environmental policies, and budget management. The meeting showcased the township’s commitment to balancing rural preservation with modern development.

Addressing rural road safety

Concerns over winter road maintenance were brought forward during the question period. Residents highlighted issues with the use of salt on unpaved roads, which can negatively impact nearby watercourses. Council members clarified that they prioritize sand over salt on dirt roads to prevent environmental damage. “On our gravel roads, we use a rear-mounted grader to create grooves,” explained a council member. “This helps the sand stay in place and enhances safety, although it’s not perfect.” They acknowledged the challenges of high winds displacing sand but affirmed their commitment to reasonable and environmentally sensitive practices.

Evolving recycling policies

The township is preparing for new recycling regulations under Recyc-Quebec’s jurisdiction. While the new rules officially began on Jan. 1, Hatley’s existing contract with its recycling provider will delay implementation until next year. “Even now, you can place new recyclable materials in your bin,” the council clarified, adding that the regional sorting centre will handle them. The township also highlighted its ongoing partnership with a local glass recycling program, which separates glass by colour for efficient processing.

Urban planning updates

During the question period, residents inquired about the next steps for Hatley’s urban planning initiatives. The council confirmed the township is undergoing a comprehensive review of its zoning regulations—the first in over two decades. “This is a significant undertaking,” one member stated. “It reflects the evolution of rural living and ensures that our regulations remain relevant.” Public consultations have been integral to this process, providing valuable input on local priorities and challenges.

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L’article Balancing progress and preservation est apparu en premier sur Sherbrooke Record.

Canadian values are at stake in the next election.

Roughly 43% of Canadians are prepared to vote Conservative in the next election. Not because CPC leader Pierre Poilievre is popular — he’s not — or because the party has a good platform — they don’t — but because of rage-bait to vote against Justin Trudeau, who’s no longer running for prime minister.

It’s worth noting that roughly 1 in 3 Canadians will vote Conservative no matter what their platform entails or who the party leader is. Case in point: Even Andrew Scheer still managed to get 34% of the vote. 

At its core, however, Canada is a progressive country.

The vast majority of Canadians support a woman’s right to choose, support bans on handguns and assault rifles and believe climate change exists. Despite what Poilievre and Jordan Peterson might think, most Canadians also acknowledge the existence of systemic racism and agree that increasing trans acceptance is a sign of social progress.

As prime minister, would Poilievre lead with policies that appeal to the majority, or solely the minority of Canadians who end up voting for him?

Peace, equality and compassion are Canadian values — and I see none of that in Pierre Poilievre.

For our latest in news, please visit the News section.

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Jamie Ross, a visual artist and filmmaker, lives between Montreal and Los Angeles. On Tuesday, he said he was in a car headed into L.A. and the "smell of smoke was palpable."

A pair of Quebec water bombers and their crews are in California helping fight the massive wildfires tearing through the Los Angeles area.

Montreal-based retailer Frank and Oak has filed for creditor protection for the second time this decade, seeking relief from $71 million in debt.

Liberal MPs are gathering in Ottawa for a pre-scheduled caucus meeting with one objective in mind: finding a new leader.

As rates of vaccination against measles decline, Montreal public health has confirmed one case of the disease in the city. They have also issued a list of seven locations visited by the infected person during their contagious period, between Dec. 22 and Jan. 3.

The locations are three healthcare facilities in Côte-des-Neiges and Cartierville and four businesses in Mile End and the Plateau. For the full list of Montreal locations, dates and times, please see the chart below.

According to the U.S. Centre for Disease Control, 3 out of 100 people who’ve received the two recommended doses of the measles vaccine can still contract the disease.

For information about the measles vaccine and staying up to date on children’s immunization, please consult the Government of Quebec’s page about measles, mumps and rubella.

For our latest in news, please visit the News section.

The post Montreal public health warns of new measles case, lists 7 possible exposure sites appeared first on Cult MTL.

A Quebec company and organization are teaming up to gift a single mother of four an adapted vehicle for her son who has severe disabilities.

While the disease can be deadly in some acute cases, public health officials say it doesn’t spread as easily as some other infectious diseases, and there are specific reasons why it is more prevalent in some communities.

Polls show the Conservatives with a commanding lead, and a potential crushing defeat for the Liberals. But many will soon be vying for that top job, raising the question: why anyone would want to lead a party that's likely to be soundly defeated?

New York City, a bustling metropolis with eight million people all trying to get somewhere, has now put a price on cars entering part of Manhattan, the first of its kind in North America. Could Toronto, Montreal or Vancouver be next?

An 80-year-old man has died after being struck by a vehicle on Sainte-Foy Road in Quebec City on Friday afternoon, police say.

Marie-Philip Poulin still gets a little emotional as she stands at centre ice in a packed arena, hearing O Canada. The hockey legend knows her eyes may get misty on Wednesday before her Montreal Victoire line up to face the Toronto Sceptres in Vancouver.

After being hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, clothing retailer Frank And Oak’s struggles have continued thanks in part to online fast fashion trends.

Sports are an integral part of life here in Kahnawake. Whether it’s an important home game at the Sports Complex or hospital field, winning medals in a tournament, or even proudly representing the community at the international level, Kahnawa’kehró:non of all disciplines and walks of life had a busy 2024.

Lacrosse

The Kahnawake Hunters started their season off slow, but as the season progressed, losing streaks turned into winning streaks.

The team went on a deep playoff run, making it all the way to the finals of the Ontario Junior B Lacrosse League (OJBLL), winning the Eastern Conference championship for the first time ever. In the finals, they were defeated in a three-game sweep by the Elora Mohawks, but their long playoff run brought the community together to support them.

Koleton Marquis was selected fourth overall by the Major Series Lacrosse’s Peterborough Lakers in the 2024 draft. In 12 games, Marquis scored 10 goals and added 18 assists for 28 points, making it to the finals with the Lakers and being named their rookie of the year.

Many players from town played for East Coast Elite at the Best in Box lacrosse tournament in January, held in Hatsfield, Pennsylvania. The U17 team won 5-4 against the host team, Penn Lax, with six community members on the squad. The four local players on the U19 team won silver at the same tournament.

Both teams added to their success the following week, winning the FireWolves Shootout Lacrosse in Albany, New York.

In March, lacrosse coach Al Jones brought a team with seven players from Kahnawake to the 2024 Spring Sixes Classic in Maine, finishing second overall.

Teharonhiorens McComber was drafted by the Junior A Adanacs in Coquitlam, British Columbia, in the Columbia Junior A Lacrosse League.

The Kahnawake Survival School (KSS) Akweks took home silver in the Greater Montreal Athletic Association (GMAA) season, losing only twice all season – including their finals loss.

The U15 Mohawks won gold in the Ray Broadworth Memorial Tournament, going undefeated.

The U15B and U17B Mohawks each won their respective Ontario Lacrosse Association playoffs.

All 10 minor lacrosse teams participated in this year’s provincials in early August, a massive undertaking for the lacrosse association.

Later that month, eight players from the community were on gold medal winning Team First Nations for U15 and U17 play at the Canadian Box Lacrosse National Championships in Regina, Saskatchewan. Ryan Stacey also played in that tournament, playing for the U17 women’s Team Quebec and winning gold in the B division.

September saw the Haudenosaunee Nationals win bronze in both the men’s and women’s tournaments in the box lacrosse nationals in Utica, New York. This was the inaugural tournament for female teams, while the men extended the medal streak they have kept since 2003.

The Young Warriors, a U17 team coached by Al Jones, won gold at the United States Box Lacrosse Association championships. Along with his son Darris and Jackson Norton were players from across the six nations to form an “all-star” team.

Trey Deere had a great year, playing Division 1 NCAA lacrosse for Syracuse University as a freshman. 

In October, laxers from town competed at the 2024 edition of LAXNAI, the largest box lacrosse invitational tournament in North America. The U15 and Masters teams won gold, and CLUB24Heat won bronze in the adult’s division

Defender Louis Alfred Jr. was drafted in the fifth round, 67th overall, by the National Lacrosse League’s Halifax Thunderbirds. He started the year on the physically unable to perform list, however.

Stone Jacobs signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Wings and is currently assigned to the practice squad at the time of writing.

Allen “Arbour” Diabo was inducted into the Ontario Lacrosse Hall of Fame, as a “special contributor” for his coaching and support of Kahnawake lacrosse.

Hockey

The U13 Rockettes won gold in Brockville, Ontario, for the February Freeze. Ierahkwanónhnha Olivia Moon Meloche and Iehwatsirahnì:ra’ts Gilbert were on the team, in their first year of playing hockey.

The U15A Rockettes, with Ie’nahkwenha:wi Rice on the roster, finished first place in their age group and won their championship.

The U11A, U13B, U15A, and U18 Rockettes all won their season’s championships. All of those teams qualified for the Chevrolet Cup, which the U13 team won.

Three players from the community participated in this year’s Quebec Games in March, with Ryan Stacey playing for the Southwest girls’ team, placing 12th.

Rome and Kingston Delisle played on the boys’ team, which finished 11th.

Come playoff time, the Kahnawake Minor Hockey Association (KMHA) had some success throughout. U11A, U11C, U15A, U15B, U18A, and U18B all made the playoffs.

After the end of the 2023-2024 season, a new board was elected for Kahnawake Minor Hockey, with Brianne Alfred as president. 

Another new addition was the introduction of brand-new, community-voted jerseys.

A new Junior team was introduced to the KMHA, after years of demand from players who had previously needed to play in other hockey associations once they reached Junior hockey age.

At the National Aboriginal Hockey Championship (NAHC) in Grand Prairie, Alberta, both U18 Team Eastern Door and the North squads were captained by Kahnawa’kehró:non: Ryan Stacey for the girls and Bocephus Dailleboust for the boys. 

Dailleboust was joined by Cade Stacey, Pryor Stacey, Rohsennakehte Lahache, and Marcus Diabo.

Bocephus Dailleboust, playing in Boston in the United States Premier Hockey League (USPHL), won the prestigious Quebec Tom Longboat Award.

A covered, refrigerated rink project was announced in town, to allow for longer usage of the outdoor ice surface. The first phase of the project has started and is scheduled for completion in early 2025. The 2024-2025 season has already started well for the KMHA, with teams performing well at in-season tournaments across all age groups.

Players outside the KMHA are also performing well in 2024-2025 so far, including Ryan Stacey and Hayse Horne for the Lac St. Louis Warriors in U15 AAA. 

Baseball and softball

Many Warhawks teams made their respective regional playoffs. The U9, U11, U13B, and U15A teams participated in playoff action, with the U9 team winning gold in the Lac St. Louis regional playoffs.

For the girls’ teams, the U13B Purple Warhawks made a deep playoff run, winning their sectional playoffs and advancing to provincials.

The U11 and U16 girls’ teams also made playoff appearances, but did not advance to the medal rounds.

After the season, a fall ball U15 team was assembled, with the help of players from other towns including Chateauguay and Beauharnois. The team went 7-3 during the season, finishing second, but was unable to win a playoff game.

Emily Meloche and Bonnie Zachary won bronze with Team Quebec at the 2024 Women’s Canadian Fast Pitch National Championships.

The Kahnawake Mixed Softball League was back this year, with the Rezbirds winning their third title in six years after besting the Boyz in a two-game sweep.

Figure Skating

Skaters Taylah McComber and Kaylani Delormier won medals at the 2024 Quebec Games South West. Delormier won three gold, two silver, and two bronze medals across seven elements.

The Kahnawake Figure Skating Club turned 30, putting on an Elvis-themed show at the Sports Complex in April.

Wrestling

The 2024 Canadian Wrestling Championships happened in Mississauga, with wrestlers from Kahnawake making their way to the tournament. Thirteen-year-old twins Grayden and Claire Diome both medalled with the Tritton Wrestling Club.

Kahnawake was host to the Canada East Festival in May. The Sports Complex transformed itself into a giant wrestling surface, where 215 or so wrestlers from Quebec, Ontario, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia competed over three days.

KSS’s Lia Bear won silver in the girls’ Bantam division in that tournament. Lennox Deer from Kanien’kehá:ka Tehontatie:nas Mohawk Wrestling Club (MWC) won bronze in the boys’ Bantam division.

Tritton Wrestling Club wrestlers Kanerathens Bush, Grayden Diome, and Claire Diome all performed well at the Battle of the Beach wrestling tournament in St. Zotique, each winning many medals.

Football

The Montreal Alouettes returned to Kahnawake, linked to the Canadian Football League’s efforts for Orange Shirt Day. They held a flag football clinic for children in the community for the second straight year and wore a logo designed by Finnley Montour along with an orange warmup jersey for their game on September 28. Auctions for the jerseys raised $4,000 for the community.

The Chateauguay Raiders made playoff runs with players from town on multiple teams. 

The Bantam Raiders, with Aidan Davies on the team, lost 31-13 to the St. Lazare Mustangs in the President’s Cup final.

The Peewee team also made the President’s Cup final, with Kirk Horne playing on the offensive line. They were defeated 40-0 by the St. Leonard Cougars.

Golf

The Kateri Memorial Foundation held the 10th edition of its fundraising tournament, with 44 teams participating.

This year ended up being the last for Tewatohnhi’saktha’s Business Golf Challenge. In its last edition, it raised over $115,600 for the Kahnawake Youth Center.

Three golfers from the community helped Whitlock Golf and Country Club defend their home turf in the Montreal Regional Golf Association Interclubs. Derek White, Noah Norton, and Travis Robertson were on the winning team.

Frankie McComber, Jr., won the Club Championship at Kanawaki Golf Club. He is the only player from Kahnawake to have their name engraved on the trophy.

Kiefer Kirby also won at Kanawaki, becoming the Junior champion.

Motorsports

In NASCAR news, Kahnawa’kehró:non Soot Rice and Nick McComber were on the pit crew of 2024 NASCAR Canada champion Marc-Antoine Camirand, with Rice serving as car chief. 

Dexter Stacey and his father Wallace both ran partial schedules this season, with Dexter finishing with one top-10 in five starts and Wallace making one start.

Basketball

The Toronto Raptors came to Kateri School for a basketball clinic with kids, including those who had played for the First Nations Education Council (FNEC) Inter-School Games team in May.

Soccer

Poppy Diabo joined the Onondaga Community College soccer team in Syracuse, New York, making the national championship in her first year.

The Kahnawake Arrowhead FC senior Division 2 women’s team won silver in the Association Régionale de Soccer Sud-Ouest, after losing in the finals to Mercier.

KSS won the GMAA Juvenile Girls’ championship, defeating The Study 2-0 to finish their undefeated season.

Mixed Martial Arts

Three editions of FightQuest were held in town this year: 54, 55, and 56.

Kahnawa’kehró:non David Beauvais and Tiaohsera’te Johnson competed in some of their first professional fights at FightQuest.

Paddling

The Onake Paddling Club announced a move into a new building in 2025. 

The club participated in many races during the warm months, including ‘Round the Mountain Canoe and Kayak Race on Saranac Lake in New York and the Cartierville Regatta.

Onake sent five crews to Hawaii this summer, participating in the 51st Queen Lili’uokalani Canoe Race. It was their first time going since 2008, and the youth teams brought home medals from the once in a lifetime event – OC6 mixed winning silver and OC6 girls gold.

Onake paddler Konwanankeren Diabo won two gold medals at the Canoe Kayak Canada provincial championships in Shawinigan.

The club itself won five medals at the provincials in Sherbrooke, including a gold in the Peewee K2 category.

Father and son duo Danny and Ahonwakerane Stacey competed in the Standup Paddling World Championships in Sarasota, Florida. While neither medalled, it was the experience of a lifetime for the pair, who have paddled together for decades.

First Nations Education Council Inter-School Games

Team Kahnawake won 76 medals at this year’s FNEC Inter-School Games in Quebec City.

Included in the medal count were two medals in floor hockey; two in 10-12 volleyball; 56 medals in track and field – 10 gold, 14 silver, 13 bronze, 10 fourth-place medals, and nine fifth-place medals; and 16 in the Ancestors’ Challenge.

It was the first year that students from Kateri School, Kahnawake Survival School, Karihwanó:ron, and Karonhianónhnha Tsi Ionterihwaienstáhkhwa competed as one Kahnawake team, instead of as four individual schools.

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By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Barnston West’s municipal council gathered on Jan. 6 in Way’s Mills for the first meeting of the year, with Councillor Julie Grenier presiding in the absence of Mayor Johnny Piszar. Five residents attended the meeting, which covered a range of community topics including preparations for a winter carnival, cellular service issues, and property-related concerns.

Councillor Ziv Przytyk announced plans for a winter carnival to be held on Feb. 9 at the ShazamFest site. The event will feature activities such as skating, sledding, and a snow skate demonstration. “We’ll have instructors to show people how to use snow skates, and there will be… equipment available for attendees to try out,” he said. The carnival will run from noon to 7 p.m., concluding with a torchlight procession. Event details will be published on the municipality’s website, in local publications, and on social media. The council also noted collaboration with the Barnston West Recreation Committee and the Youth Committee for the event’s organization.

The council reviewed requests for financial aid from local organizations. The Maison de la Famille requested support, although no specific amount was mentioned. “This organization helps families across the MRC, including those in Barnston West,” noted one councillor. Another recurring request came from a local trail maintenance group. The municipality has historically contributed between $300 and $400 annually to support their work. Council members agreed to continue funding these initiatives, emphasizing their importance to the community.

The lack of reliable cellular service in parts of Barnston West was a key topic. Residents and councillors discussed ongoing connectivity issues in nearby areas and even parts of the village of Way’s Mills itself. “Sometimes, you have to stand by a window just to get a signal,” remarked one attendee. The council resolved to support a motion by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) advocating for improved rural cellular coverage. “It’s essential for farmers and entrepreneurs in rural areas to have the same tools as those in urban centres,” noted a councillor. The resolution will be sent to political parties and relevant authorities, including the CRTC.

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L’article Winter carnival, cell service, and property concerns headline Barnston West council meeting est apparu en premier sur Sherbrooke Record.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A day-long police operation in Waterville concluded peacefully on Jan. 6 after an individual barricaded himself inside an apartment on Main Street. According to SQ Communications Officer Louis-Philippe Ruel, officers responded to reports of a man in his 30s exhibiting concerning behaviour early in the morning.

Police secured the area around the apartment as a precaution and called in a tactical intervention team equipped with specialized vehicles and equipment. “It was about ensuring everyone’s safety, including the individual’s,” Ruel said. The situation ended around 6:15 p.m. when officers arrested the man without incident. He was alone in the apartment at the time.

The suspect may face charges related to the negligent use of a firearm. Ruel confirmed that a shot had been fired earlier in the day, though it was not directed at anyone. “The firearm discharge added to the urgency of the response,” he explained.

Geoff King, a Waterville resident, described in an interview the disruption caused by the police perimeter. “They had a couple of cars blocking access to certain streets,” he said. King, whose home was nearby, parked in a church lot and walked home to avoid the blocked roads. He noted that the restricted access primarily affected residents trying to enter the immediate area.

The standoff began shortly after 8 a.m., but negotiations with the man did not start until mid-afternoon. Police maintained a visible presence throughout, with large vehicles and tactical units stationed near the apartment. Ruel clarified that these measures were standard precautions.

While the incident caused significant disruption in the small town, it ended without injuries or violence. “Thankfully, the situation was resolved safely,” Ruel emphasized. Police are continuing their investigation, and the suspect’s court appearance is pending.

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L’article Police safely resolve day-long standoff in Waterville est apparu en premier sur Sherbrooke Record.

When Finnley Montour answered a callout for graphic artists to imagine an Indigenous-inspired logo for the Montreal Alouettes, the Kahnawa’kehró:non artist did not think her work would be the one chosen to adorn the Canadian Football League (CFL) team’s helmet.

And yet, that’s exactly what will be happening on Saturday, September 28, at BMO Field in Toronto as the reigning Grey Cup champions visit the Toronto Argonauts.

Montour’s design – which took 10-15 hours to make – features a dreamcatcher inside the logo’s bird silhouette, with 12 points to the webbing representing the 12 players on a CFL field. 

Instead of a solid red outline, the silhouette is made to resemble the leather wrapping on the dreamcatcher. The three feathers on the logo represent a kustowa.

“I wanted to make sure that every Indigenous community was represented in the design, and not just the Kanien’kehá:ka, which is why I went with the dreamcatcher design,” said Montour.

“I was pleasantly surprised that out of all the entries that they got, that they decided to go with mine,” said Montour. “I’m very proud of this design. It’s one of my favourites that I’ve ever done.”

While the other CFL teams will also feature logo designs from Indigenous artists, the Alouettes will be doing something unique: on the back of the helmet, where the name of the team’s city is normally written, will be written Tiohtià:ke.

Montour added “Tiohtià:ke Alouettes” to the full logo design, where the words “Montreal” and “Alouettes” are over and under the bird silhouette. She did not know the team would be using Tiohtià:ke before seeing the helmet.

“To know that you know professional football players are going to be wearing this helmet, and all of Canada is going to be able to see this and see our language, it’s an incredible feeling,” said Montour.

The artist was on hand as the Alouettes visited Kahnawake this past Monday as part of leaguewide activities to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30.

Four players from the team ran flag football drills at the Kahnawake Sports Complex with kids from the community before separating into four teams to play a mini tournament.

“I love the fact that they come here,” said Mohawk Council of Kahnawake (MCK) chief Jeremiah Johnson. “The relationship that we’re forging with this organization is really special. The children get to come out and see some of their heroes, the guys they see on TV and get to participate, and it’s going to be inspiring for some of them. When one kid gets inspired, isn’t it all worth it?”

This was a return to Kahnawake for the Alouettes, who participated in a similar activity in 2023.

“We connected with a lot of people here last year, and have continued that conversation, and so it was just natural for us to come back here this year,” said Alouettes president Mark Weightman. 

He said the experience last year was special both to him and the players.

“It just opened our eyes, and I think if we can learn this much just coming out and chatting and playing some football and having fun, then we’re onto something,” said Weightman.

On top of the outreach, the goal of the day was, of course, to have fun.

As soon as the drills started, the Alouettes players were running around and interacting with the kids from the community, sharing laughs and smiles along with tips and tricks.

“It was a riot. I had a lot of fun coming out, being able to spread football and reach out to a community that, you know, we don’t normally get to visit,” said Alouettes defensive tackle Dylan Wynn.

“They’re  full of enthusiasm. To have them come out here and meet kids and talk football, it’s probably the easiest thing we can ask them all year,” said Weightman.

Wynn, an American player, said he did not learn very much about Indigenous cultures in his schooling, but was appreciative of the opportunity to come to Kahnawake and learn about the community.

“We try to represent, as the Montreal Alouettes, our community,” said Wynn. “And (Kahnawake) is such a big part of our community, and being able to directly say like, ‘hey, we’re representing you guys,’ that means a lot to us.”

After the games, kids and parents were able to get mini footballs and other items signed by the players. Every registered child at the event was also given a pair of tickets for a future Alouettes game this season. 

Montour’s logo was also shown off on the Alouettes’ helmet by Weightman, to the amazement of those in attendance – fan and player alike.

“I love it, it’s sick,” said Wynn of the logo. “It’s great to have kids be able to go, ‘hey, that’s me. That’s my culture on a professional stage.’”

“The logo is beautiful,” said Johnson. “It’s a really nice tribute, and it’s an honour, really, that they would put so much effort into acknowledging our territory, our people, and I think it’s fantastic.”

Along with the logo, the Alouettes will wear special orange jerseys during warmups, which will then be auctioned off. According to the team, the money raised will be given back to the community in Kahnawake.

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A provincial agency has deemed a proposed mining project in Quebec’s Abitibi-Témiscamingue region unacceptable due to insufficient information on risks and impacts, including concerns about public health, safety and air quality.

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