Here’s what you need to know this Wednesday morning: Backlash against “left lane hogs” in B.C., a Canadian fashion line under fire, former bank robber denied full parole, the awards for biggest waste of tax dollars and a heartwarming tale of a sick boy who just wants people to hug.
1. Lane hog crackdown? If your daily commute involves driving on a highway, you’ve probably ranted against “left lane hogs” who refuse to switch lanes. British Columbia’s minister of transportation, Todd Stone, shares your pain and says the province is “looking at eliminating or reducing” the problem. His comments hit a nerve with drivers across the country, who took to social media to ask whether more can be done to curb slow left lane drivers in other provinces.
2. Fashion critics: A new clothing line by Canadian designers Dan and Dean Caten, the twin brothers behind Dsquared2, has been accused of being disrespectful and culturally insensitive to aboriginals. The brothers’ “Dsquaw” fall-winter women’s collection features pants, jackets, dresses and coats that combine “tribal decorations” with designs from the Victorian era.
3. Bank robber turned author: A former member of the Stopwatch Gang, which pulled off more than 100 heists in the U.S. and Canada during the 1970s and 1980s, has had his application for full parole denied. Stephen Reid, 64, now spends his time writing screenplays and making aboriginal drums.
4. Dubious distinction: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation will announce its annual Teddy Waste Awards this morning on Parliament Hill, revealing the person or department responsible for the biggest waste of tax dollars over the past year. Last year, the dubious award went to Employment and Social Development Canada for promoting a jobs grant that didn’t yet exist.
5. #GiveAHug: As eight-year-old Sebastian Yanquelevech bravely prepares to undergo brain surgery for a second time in his young life, he’s putting out a call for a worldwide hug. The Toronto boy is hoping to harness the power of a hug for his mother, so that she won’t worry about him. Want to help? Just give someone a hug on Thursday.
One more thing... While waterfalls have always been a big tourist draw, taking them in during the frigid winter months is an entirely different experience. Take advantage of what's left of the winter season by heading outdoors to view one of Canada's many waterfalls in their breathtaking, icy state. Read more here:
