Accident – Death – Obituary News :

A Look at News Events in January 2023: Canada Celebrates National Ribbon Skirt Day

January 4 – Canada marked the first National Ribbon Skirt Day

In a significant cultural milestone, Canada celebrated its first-ever National Ribbon Skirt Day on January 4th. This event was established after a bill to recognize the day passed in Parliament late last year. The inspiration behind this special day can be traced back to a 10-year-old girl named Isabella Kulak, who wore a ribbon skirt to her rural Saskatchewan school in December 2020.

Isabella wore the colourful garment as part of a formal day at school. However, her family shared that a staff member had told her that the outfit wasn’t formal enough. This incident sparked a conversation about cultural inclusivity and led to the school division issuing an apology. The establishment of National Ribbon Skirt Day aims to raise awareness and promote the significance of this traditional Indigenous clothing.

January 5 – COVID-19 Test Requirement for Passengers Leaving China to Enter Canada

Despite protests and threats of retaliation from Beijing, airline passengers leaving China, Hong Kong, and Macau were required to provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test upon entering Canada starting January 5th. This measure was implemented due to the surging cases in China at that time.

The Canadian federal government had announced the week prior that travellers from the region would need to present a negative test administered within 48 hours of their departure. Similar rules had already been imposed by other countries, including the United States and several in the EU. This requirement aimed to ensure the safety of both travellers and the Canadian population amid the ongoing pandemic.

January 5 – Canada Wins World Junior Hockey Championship

Canada once again emerged victorious at the world junior hockey championship. The host country secured the gold medal by defeating Czechia 3-2 in the final game of the tournament. The thrilling match saw Dylan Guenther scoring his second goal of the night at 6:22 of overtime, leading Canada to victory.

Canada’s win was particularly remarkable as they had to overcome a blown 2-0 lead in the third period. Shane Wright, on his 19th birthday, contributed with another goal for the Canadian team. This victory marked Canada’s second consecutive gold medal at the tournament, making them the first team to achieve such a feat since their five-year winning streak from 2005 to 2009.

January 8 – Supporters of Former Brazilian President Storm Congress and Presidential Palace

In scenes reminiscent of the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol, supporters of former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro stormed Congress, the Supreme Court, and the presidential palace. This display of unrest occurred just a week after the inauguration of Bolsonaro’s leftist rival, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Thousands of demonstrators bypassed security barricades, climbed on the roofs, broke windows, and invaded the three buildings. Some protesters called for a military intervention to restore Bolsonaro to power. The chaotic events led to hundreds of arrests in the aftermath, as authorities worked to regain control and maintain stability in the country.

January 9 – Avalanche Claims the Life of a Police Officer in Southeastern B.C.

A tragic incident unfolded in the mountains of southeastern B.C. when an avalanche claimed the life of a police officer. The Nelson Police Board confirmed that Const. Wade Tittemore, a 43-year-old officer, was killed, and another officer, Const. Mathieu Nolet, was critically injured near Kaslo.

The two officers were on snowmobiles when they were hit by the snowslide. The Nelson Police Board expressed their condolences and support for the affected officers and their families. This incident served as a reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement personnel during their duties, even in natural environments.

January 11 – Girl Guides of Canada Introduces “Embers” as New Name for Brownies Branch

Responding to concerns about inclusivity, the Girl Guides of Canada announced the introduction of “Embers” as the new name for the Brownies branch. The decision to change the branch name was made after recognizing that the previous name dissuaded some racialized girls and women from joining the outdoor adventure and activity group.

The organization conducted an online vote among current and former members, with “Embers” emerging as the chosen name over “Comets.” The Girl Guides of Canada aims to create a more inclusive environment where all individuals feel welcome and empowered to participate in their programs.

January 12 – Explosions and Fire at Hazardous Waste Facility in St. Catharines

A hazardous waste facility in St. Catharines, Ontario, experienced explosions and a subsequent fire, resulting in tragedy. The city’s fire services chief reported that the incident occurred in downtown St. Catharines in the early morning, spreading to a nearby industrial building.

One employee at the waste facility sustained significant burns and was taken to the hospital. Unfortunately, the individual succumbed to their injuries the following day. This incident drew attention to the importance of safety protocols and the potential risks associated with handling hazardous materials.

January 12 – Three Workers Killed in Explosion at Propane Facility near Montreal

A devastating explosion at Propane Lafortune, a well-known propane facility in St-Roch-de-l’Achigan, claimed the lives of three workers. Fire Chief Francois Thivierge revealed that the first responders had to exercise caution due to the risk of further explosions when they arrived at the scene.

The tragic incident highlighted the hazards associated with working in industries involving volatile substances. The community mourned the loss of the workers and acknowledged the need for stringent safety measures to prevent such accidents from occurring in the future.

January 12 – Lisa Marie Presley Dies in Los Angeles

A sad announcement came from Los Angeles as Lisa Marie Presley, the only child of Elvis Presley, passed away. Her mother, Priscilla Presley, confirmed the news, stating that Lisa Marie died after being hospitalized. Lisa Marie, who was 54 years old at the time of her death, left behind a significant legacy as the daughter of the legendary rock ‘n’ roll icon.

January 14 – China Reveals Nearly 60,000 COVID-19-Related Deaths

In a revelation from China, it was disclosed that nearly 60,000 deaths related to COVID-19 had been recorded since early December. This data release came amid criticism and complaints regarding the Chinese government’s transparency in reporting the status of the pandemic.

Among the reported deaths, 5,503 were attributed to respiratory failure caused by COVID-19, while 54,435 fatalities resulted from other ailments combined with COVID-19. This revelation underscored the global impact of the pandemic and the need for accurate and timely reporting to effectively combat its spread.

January 14 – Former Ontario Lieutenant-Governor David Onley Dies

The passing of former Ontario lieutenant-governor David Onley occurred at the age of 72. Onley, who held the position for seven years, made history as the first visibly disabled person to assume the role in 2007.

Throughout his time as lieutenant-governor and beyond, Onley championed accessibility issues. He delivered a blistering indictment of Ontario’s efforts to comply with its accessibility legislation, emphasizing the need for continued progress. Onley’s legacy served as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

January 15 – Fatal Plane Crash in Nepal

A regional passenger plane crash in Nepal resulted in the tragic loss of all 72 individuals on board. The aircraft crashed into a gorge while attempting to land at a newly opened airport in the town of Pokhara. The flight had originated from Kathmandu and lasted approximately 27 minutes.

This devastating incident highlighted the importance of aviation safety and the need for thorough investigations to prevent future accidents. The Nepalese authorities, along with international aviation organizations, conducted inquiries to determine the cause of the crash and implement necessary measures for safer air travel.

January 15 – Wayne (Gino) Odjick, Former NHL Player, Dies

The hockey community mourned the loss of Wayne (Gino) Odjick, a former NHL player who passed away at the age of 52. Odjick played 12 seasons in the NHL for the Canucks, New York Islanders, Philadelphia Flyers, and Montreal Canadiens.

Odjick’s career included eight seasons with the Vancouver Canucks, where he became a beloved figure among fans. In 2014, he was diagnosed with amyloidosis, a disease that affected his organs and heart. Despite his health challenges, Odjick’s impact on the hockey world and his resilience in the face of adversity left a lasting legacy.

January 18 – Rock Legend David Crosby Dies

The music industry mourned the loss of rock legend David Crosby, who passed away at the age of 81. Crosby, a founding member of the Byrds and Crosby, Stills and Nash, made significant contributions to the world of rock ‘n’ roll.

Throughout his career, Crosby’s musical talent and unique vocal harmonies resonated with audiences worldwide. His passing marked the end of an era, yet his music and influence will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.

January 21 – Second Officer Dies in Avalanche Incident

The tragic avalanche incident in the British Columbia Interior claimed the life of a second off-duty officer. Const. Mathieu Nolet, who had been critically injured during the avalanche, succumbed to severe internal injuries.

The officers were backcountry skiing near Kaslo, B.C., when they were caught in the avalanche. The loss of Const. Nolet further emphasized the risks faced by those in law enforcement, even during their personal time. The community mourned the.