DAY ONENEWSL E T T ER

Wow...who knew this bunch would be so ready to let loose and grove to the beats during a little karaoke? But let's be honest - I'm sure the question most of us are asking right now is: "When in ol' Monty, why not get a little crazy?" I have to say though; we on the executive committee are immmmmmpressed. So thank you to everyone for contributing to a great first day. If yesterday was any indication as to how the week will go, I think we'll all have a bunch of stories to tell back home, about those crazy Canucks in Canada.

From what we've heard most of you had the chance to explore Montreal today: see some of the sights and take it all in. Well done! We've also heard that someone on the Melbourne team has been shopping non-stop - so if you're looking for some good deals, be sure to check with them!

In all seriousness though, even though we've got a big schedule ahead of us over the next few days, there will be some time for you to get out and pick up some souvenirs if you haven't done so yet. And of course there is the BIG ADVENTUJRE on Day 2 - during which you'll have the chance to see some of the best Montreal has to offer.

The inaugural cocktail was a huge success and hopefully it was a great chance for you to talk shop with the other teams, and size up those you'll be competing against starting Friday.

And what can we say about karaoke? Who knew this wacky bunch of people could deliver such a heart-felt rendition of Don't Want to Miss a Thing?

Well if you really don't want to miss a thing then push yourself to give it your all. You'll most likely find it'll be worth it in the end.

Just like Heather does at Chapters Bookstore, I'd like to take a quick moment to outline some of Sam's picks: a few things you all simply must do before you leave Montreal at the end of the week.

First, eat poutine. Cheese, chips, and gravy?!? What's not to love? One of the best ways to end any night in Montreal, the poutine will warm you right down to the bottom of your heart - or maybe that's the feeling of an impending heart attack...I've never really figured it out.

Second, eat Montreal smoked meat. It seems like eating might be a little 'over-emphasized' on this to-do list, but c'mon we spend 8 months of our year in hibernation - we've got to eat! Aside from Celine Dion, smoked meat is one of the things Montreal is famous for. Be sure to hit up either Schwartz's on St. Laurent or Ruben's on St. Catherine's for this classic sandwich.

Third, make the trek to the top of Mt. Royal. Located all the way at the top of Peel, you'll find the stairway to heaven - or at least the top of the mountain. Here you'll be able to get a great view of the entire downtown Montreal. The view is best at dusk so this might be a good idea if one were in need of blowing off some steam the night before a big case crack...not that anyone here is about to do anything like that (eyes-rolling).

Day 2: What do you do?

7 00 - 8 15 Breakfast @ hotel

8 15 - 9 45 Rules briefing (WEAR YOUR MMICC SHIRT)

10 00 - 15 00 Big Adventure - Yesssss

15 00 - 17 30 Free Time

17 30 - 21 30 Opening Ceremonies @ PAC

21 30 - On Night out @ Brutopia