National News Briefs – Local Skim St. Catharines

Spy Balloon Floated Over Canada – The suspected Chinese surveillance balloon that was found floating over military sites in the United States had been tracked by Canada’s government since last weekend as it passed through Canadian airspace. U.S. fighter jets examined the balloon and determined that it is equipped with high-resolution cameras but does not possess any weapons. (CTV News)
Stabbing In Downtown Toronto – A woman in her 20s was stabbed at Dundas and Bay streets in downtown Toronto at approximately 6:45 p.m. on Friday. The women was taken to a trauma centre with serious injuries while the suspects fled the scene. (CP24)
Federal Government Facing Fiscal Restrictions – Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland said a combination of a slowing global economy and rising inflation and interest rates is restricting the federal government’s ability to increase spending. The Minister’s remarks come as the premiers are asking Ottawa to increase the funding the provinces get for health care. (CBC)