We are now marking the end of 2020 and looking ahead towards 2021.

This year has not been the greatest of years, thanks to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic that has led to many people being sick, and a large number of people passing away.  For others, it has meant a large number of restrictions on their lives in order to help slow down the spread of the virus.

As such, for many this is a year that is very forgettable.

In addition, we lost a number of people over the year, both due to the virus and for other reasons.  These include Kirk Douglas, Mirella Freni, Tony Fernández, Henri Richard, Shirley Douglas, Dame Vera Lynn, Regis Philbin, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, John Turner, Geoffrey Palmer, Alex Trebek, and Dawn Wells.

In wrestling, wrestler Mark Calaway, known as ‘The Undertaker’ retired from the squared circle.

Some sporting events were able to be held prior to or during the pandemic.  In January, Team Canada won its 18th World Juniors tournament, while the Tampa Bay Lightning won the Stanley Cup and Los Angeles Dodgers won their 7th World Series.

February saw the 55th Anniversary of The Maple Leaf becoming Canada’s flag while Her Majesty celebrated 68 years as Queen of Canada.

In April, we celebrated the 65th Anniversary of VIA Rail’s flagship train, The Canadian.  May saw the 75th Anniversary of the end of the World War in Europe (VE Day), and in June the 76th Anniversary of the D-Day landings.

I also posted virtual celebrations on what would have been Warriors’ Day at the CNE and Remembrance Day in honour of our veterans and active military personnel.

#4517 in Kipling Loop

I also added posts on how the President of a condominium is only one person, the expansion of the Condominium Authority of Ontario’s tribunal, and October 31st being declared ‘John Candy Day‘ in Toronto.

And, I showed off some streetcar action at Kipling Loop early in 2020 when Long Branch Loop was shut down for repairs.

Thank you for dropping by and reading my blog.  And let’s hope that 2021 is better than 2020!  Happy New Year!