To the seasons of life
Charm
I’m, what promise do you need?
Conditions are expected to last the next 24 to 48 hours Saturday. Winds to be gusting up to 70 km an hour out of the Southwest.
This fellow was looking to see the surrounding hills in recent days on Garcia St North end…
City Light Concert, August 2nd
Klosters festival/.
City Light Concerts, Klosters Arena
Culture reminds…KDG
Mass in C Minor, Transitional Requiem
City Lights tour, ” Let Mozart’s work speak for itself.” Kevin Griffiths” Mystro…
Viewing wild orcas in British Columbia is a world-class experience. The coastal waters surrounding Vancouver Island and the BC mainland provide some of the richest marine habitats on Earth, attracting two primary distinct populations (ecotypes) of orcas.
### **1. Key Orca Ecotypes in BC**
* **Bigg’s (Transient) Orcas:** These are mammal-eating orcas that hunt seals, sea lions, and porpoises. Their populations are thriving along the BC coast, and they move continuously throughout the Salish Sea and outer coastal inlets, making year-round sightings frequent.
* **Resident Orcas (Northern & Southern):** These orcas feed almost exclusively on fish, especially Chinook salmon.
* **Northern Residents:** Frequently sighted in the waters around Northern Vancouver Island (Johnstone Strait and Broughton Archipelago) during summer and early fall.
* **Southern Residents:** Found around southern Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and the Salish Sea. Due to conservation efforts, strict distance regulations apply when viewing them to protect their population.
### **2. Top Locations for Orca Viewing**
#### **Telegraph Cove & Johnstone Strait (Northeast Vancouver Island)**
* **Highlights:** Widely recognized as one of the best locations in the world for orca watching. Home to the **Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve**, a protected sanctuary famous for its “rubbing beaches,” where Northern Resident orcas come to rub against smooth gravel on the ocean floor.
* **How to Experience:** Boat tours, multi-day sea kayaking expeditions, or zodiac excursions based out of Telegraph Cove, Port McNeill, or Alert Bay.
#### **Victoria & Sooke (Southern Vancouver Island)**
* **Highlights:** Prime entry point to the Salish Sea and Strait of Juan de Fuca. Excellent for spotting Bigg’s orcas and humpback whales.
* **How to Experience:** Daily Zodiac and covered cruiser tours depart directly from Victoria’s Inner Harbour or Sooke.
#### **Vancouver & Steveston (Lower Mainland)**
* **Highlights:** Convenient access for travelers staying on the mainland. Tours navigate the Strait of Georgia, the Gulf Islands, and Howe Sound to follow active pods.
* **How to Experience:** Day-trip operators depart out of Granville Island, Coal Harbour, and Steveston Village (Richmond).
#### **Campbell River & Cowichan Bay / Parksville (Central Salish Sea)**
* **Highlights:** Sheltered waters between Vancouver Island and the mainland, offering high success rates for spotting transient pods navigating channel passes.
#### **Prince Rupert & The North Coast**
* **Highlights:** For a remote, off-the-beaten-path experience, northern BC waters offer encounters with migrating orcas following salmon runs alongside humpbacks and grizzly bear viewing.
### **3. Prime Season**
* **Best Months:** **May through October**
* **July to September** is peak season, offering calm sea conditions, long daylight hours, and high concentrations of both resident and transient orcas following migrating salmon or hunting marine mammals.
* **Year-Round Potential:** Because Bigg’s (transient) orcas travel constantly in search of seals and sea lions, they can be spotted in BC waters in winter and spring as well.
### **4. Ways to Tour**
* **Covered Motor Vessels / Cruisers:** Ideal for family comfort, shelter from wind and spray, photography with stable platforms, and onboard naturalists.
* **Zodiacs:** Open-air, high-speed boats that offer an adventurous, closer-to-the-water feel.
* **Guided Kayaking Trips:** Multi-day basecamp or expedition tours (especially in Johnstone Strait / Hanson Island) allow quiet, immersive encounters with wildlife.
* **Distance Laws:** Marine mammal regulations in Canada require vessels to maintain a minimum distance (typically **400 metres** for all killer whales in BC coastal waters, or **200 metres** in specific designated areas for non-resident populations) to prevent boat noise from interfering with their echolocation and feeding.
* **Eco-Certified Operators:** Choose operators accredited by the *Pacific Whale Watching Association (PWWA)* or local eco-tourism boards that follow strict wildlife viewing protocols and contribute to marine conservation research.
This is an international association members are linked below. We suggest to be safe to engage the people that have the cumulative experience to ensure your safety.
From the Editor:
While some interactions can naturally happen closely, there are strict guidelines in place today to ensure the animals are protected and not disturbed.
Happy international friendship day .
KDG
United Nations since 2011, promoting friendship, human rights, and…
Promoting diversity through friendship. United Nations…
Tarot what is it?
To understand Tarot, it helps to start with what it physically is: a standardized deck of 78 cards featuring symbolic imagery.
Originally created in 15th-century Northern Italy, Tarot began not as a mystical tool, but as a parlor game for wealthy nobles called *Tarocchi* (similar to modern bridge). It wasn’t until the late 18th century that French occultists reinterpreted the vivid, allegorical pictures as a tool for divination and introspective reflection.
Here is how Tarot aligns with the categories you asked about:
**No.** Tarot has no dogma, central deity, scriptures, or required system of worship.
People of virtually any religious background—or none at all—use Tarot. While some modern pagan, Wiccan, or esoteric spiritual practices incorporate the cards into their rituals, the deck itself is simply a medium, much like a journal or an art collection.
**Yes, in a practical and psychological sense.**
Learning Tarot requires study and structured practice. A reader must memorize the foundational meanings of all 78 cards (split into the 22 “Major Arcana” representing big life lessons, and 56 “Minor Arcana” dealing with daily events) and learn how various visual motifs interact.
In modern psychology—starting with Carl Jung—Tarot is studied as a **system of archetypes**. Many readers use it non-mystically as a introspective tool. Because the cards represent universal human experiences (grief, transition, ambition, balance), looking at a random card prompt can help a person organize their thoughts, mirror their subconscious feelings, or view a problem from a new perspective.
**It depends on how it is used.**
* **If used for fortune-telling:** If someone believes the cards hold supernatural power to predict precise, literal future events (e.g., “This card proves you will win the lottery on Tuesday”), mainstream science and logic treat that as a superstition. The physical order of a shuffled deck is purely random.
* **If used for reflection:** If viewed instead as a set of visual storytelling prompts to trigger self-reflection, there is no superstition involved—just visual metaphor and creative interpretation.
**In terms of modern astronomy, no.** Tarot has no scientific or observational value for studying outer space, celestial mechanics, or physical star movements. Astronomy is an empirical science; Tarot is symbolic art.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, occult societies (like the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn) mapped standard astrological symbols—such as the 12 zodiac signs and classical planets—onto individual Tarot cards.
Moon over Merritt July 28th 2026
Photo: KDG
When first I felt the pain I thought why should I complain.
The answer came to prevent distain, “You are mine and I be yours”. To own all moments worth a cue.
My stay is all for you and those to which you direct. My pull to keep sense from a slumber bother.
As you sleep a curious row, my still vigil will send its flow.
Break all bonds not precise,not given for your relief. Then peace protects all stoop, when bend pushes ware.
My power is all in all a classic step. A monthly date to expect.
Have a great Month…
Well NASA bless them, as all their photos are public domain.
PP
British Columbia Sites worthy. 10 sites worth your time…
British Columbia offers a vast canvas for landscape and outdoor photography, ranging from rugged coastal rainforests to dry interior canyons and dramatic alpine peaks.
Here are **10 of the most visually spectacular sites in BC**, selected for their distinct geological character, compelling natural light, and immense creative potential:
### **1. Mount Robson Provincial Park (Berg Lake & Kinney Lake)**
* **The Draw:** Home to the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. The sheer vertical scale of Mount Robson rising above glacier-fed water provides incredible depth and dramatic contrast.
* **Photographic Focus:** Capturing early morning light hit the face of Mt. Robson, or framing the vivid turquoise waters of Kinney Lake against surrounding alpine slopes.
### **2. Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park**
* **The Draw:** Often dubbed the “Matterhorn of the Rockies,” this remote park is a dream for wide-angle landscape photography featuring jagged peaks, larch forests, and crystal-clear reflection lakes.
* **Photographic Focus:** Sunrises over Sunburst Lake with Mt. Assiniboine perfectly mirrored on a calm morning.
### **3. Yoho National Park (Emerald Lake & Lake O’Hara)**
* **The Draw:** Tucked along the continental divide, Yoho features intense glacial silts, towering waterfalls (like Takakkaw Falls), and rugged granite amphitheaters.
* **Photographic Focus:** Reflections of surrounding peaks on the still surface of Emerald Lake or framing dramatic, cascading water against deep canyon walls.
### **4. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve (Tofino & Ucluelet)**
* **The Draw:** Wild, moody Pacific Northwest coastline. Mist-shrouded old-growth rainforests meet rocky headlands and expansive, ocean-swept beaches.
* **Photographic Focus:** Long-exposure seascape photography along Chesterman Beach or the Wild Pacific Trail during stormy weather, capturing churning waves and sea stacks.
### **5. Joffre Lakes Provincial Park**
* **The Draw:** Three cascading alpine lakes famous for their striking, radiant turquoise color caused by glacial flour suspended in the water.
* **Photographic Focus:** Framing the Matier Glacier hovering over Middle and Upper Joffre Lakes using shoreline logs or pine branches for strong foreground leading lines.
### **6. Seton Lake & The Fraser Canyon (Lillooet Region)**
* **The Draw:** A unique contrast to coastal rainforests, this dry interior landscape features sharp canyon walls, winding rivers, and brilliant golden hour light.
* **Photographic Focus:** The dramatic horseshoe bend of the lake framed by arid, rugged mountains during sunset, highlighting texture and warm earth tones.
### **7. Great Bear Rainforest & Bella Coola Valley**
* **The Draw:** One of the most pristine coastal temperate rainforests left on Earth, where deep fjords meet steep, glacier-capped mountains and ancient granite walls.
* **Photographic Focus:** Atmospheric, moody forest framing, ocean mist hanging over narrow inlets, and dynamic wildlife photography along river valleys.
### **8. Wells Gray Provincial Park**
* **The Draw:** Known as Canada’s “waterfall park,” shaped by ancient volcanic activity and glacial carving. It features massive drops like Helmcken Falls plunging into deep canyons.
* **Photographic Focus:** Experimenting with shutter speeds to capture the sheer power and movement of Helmcken, Dawson, or Moul Falls framed by volcanic rock walls.
### **9. Kootenay Lake & West Kootenay Passes**
* **The Draw:** Deep, fjord-like lake basins surrounded by the Selkirk and Purcell Mountain ranges. The area mixes quiet historic charm with dramatic valley elevation shifts.
* **Photographic Focus:** Composition opportunities using ferry crossings, shoreline reflections, and mountain passes catching low-angle alpine light during golden hour or twilight.
### **10. Johnstone Strait & Telegraph Cove (Northern Vancouver Island)**
* **The Draw:** Misty marine channels, lush coastal islands, and rich ocean ecosystems.
* **Photographic Focus:** Telephoto compositions capturing marine life against mist-laden forest backdrops, or framing colorful boardwalk settlements tucked into coastal bays.
Under the government’s Canada strong initiative:. Admission in national parks is free till September 7th 2026. Some provincial parks are also sharing in this initiative or their own.
Provincial is being dropped in the name for a reconciliation value to FN soon…
The [Gordie Howe International Bridge](https://gordiehoweinternationalbridge.com/) officially opened to vehicle traffic today, Monday, July 27, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. ET, marking a historic milestone for North American trade and travel. Members of the Howe family made the ceremonial first crossing at approximately 9:45 a.m., followed shortly after by the first commercial truck carrying auto parts. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
## Key Bridge Details
* The Route: Directly connects Interstate 75 (I-75) in Detroit, Michigan, to Highway 401 in Windsor, Ontario.
* Capacity: Features 6 bridge lanes, 16 toll lanes, and 60 total inspection lanes split between the Canada and U.S. ports of entry.
* Record Breaker: It stands as the longest cable-stayed bridge span in North America.
* Economic Impact: Expected to save truck drivers an estimated 850,000 hours per year in wait times by eliminating local street idling. [2, 6, 7, 8]
## Revenue Agreement & Tariff Tensions
Though [funded entirely by the Canadian federal government](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gordie_Howe_International_Bridge) at a cost of $6.4 billion CAD ($4.7 billion USD), the bridge is jointly owned by Canada and Michigan. The opening followed intense negotiations spurred by U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened to block the project earlier this year. [9, 10, 11]
Under the finalized revenue-sharing agreement:
* Toll Splits: For the first 15 years, toll revenue will cover operations and maintenance. [8]
* Net Profit: Remaining profits will be split 50/50, with half going to Canada and half funding a U.S.-controlled economic development fund. [8]
* Solo Celebration: Due to a deepening trade war and recent 50% tariff threats from the Trump administration, Canadian officials canceled a planned joint ribbon-cutting event and celebrated the opening independently on July 24. [12, 13]
## What is Next?
If you are planning to travel by foot or bicycle, the bridge’s toll-free multi-use path for pedestrians and cyclists will officially open on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. ET. [5, 14]
Are you planning to travel across the bridge soon? I can look up the official toll rates or help you find information on how to register for the Breakaway toll discount program. [6, 15]
[1] [https://www.clickondetroit.com](https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/local/2026/07/27/gordie-howe-international-bridge-set-to-open-monday-after-years-of-construction/)
[2] [https://windsorstar.com](https://windsorstar.com/news/local-news/gordie-howe-bridge-open-to-traffic-as-first-vehicles-make-historic-crossing)
[3] [https://www.ctvnews.ca](https://www.ctvnews.ca/windsor/article/gordie-howe-bridge-officially-open-howe-family-members-first-to-cross/)
[4] [https://www.theglobeandmail.com](https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-gordie-howe-bridge-opens-to-cars/)
[5] [https://www.audacy.com](https://www.audacy.com/wwjnewsradio/news/local/opening-ceremony-held-for-gordie-howe-international-bridge-set-to-open-to-vehicle-traffic-on-monday)
[6] [https://www.clickondetroit.com](https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/local/2026/07/24/heres-when-the-gordie-howe-international-bridge-will-open-to-traffic/)
[7] [https://www.facebook.com](https://www.facebook.com/Local4/posts/the-gordie-howe-international-bridge-will-soon-be-open-with-canadians-celebratin/1487331173439447/)
[8] [https://www.cbc.ca](https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/economic-benefit-gordie-howe-bridge-9.7281466)
[9] [https://www.facebook.com](https://www.facebook.com/CanBorder/posts/its-official-the-gordiehoweinternationalbridge-opens-on-july-27/1471117301710691/)
[10] [https://en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gordie_Howe_International_Bridge)
[11] [https://globalnews.ca](https://globalnews.ca/news/11987449/canada-gordie-howe-bridge-opening-ceremony/)
[12] [https://www.aljazeera.com](https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2026/7/24/canada-marks-gordie-howe-bridge-opening-without-us-after-trade-war-deepens)
[13] [https://www.wxyz.com](https://www.wxyz.com/news/region/detroit/gordie-howe-international-bridge-opening-draws-fanfare-in-canada-but-silence-on-michigan-side)
[14] [https://www.cbc.ca](https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/windsor/livestory/gordie-howe-international-bridge-2026-live-updates-9.7172299)
[15] [https://www.cbsnews.com](https://www.cbsnews.com/detroit/news/gordie-howe-international-bridge-timeline/)
Junior A Hockey, Merritt
Tonight the Merritt Centennials ended 51 consecutive years of play, positive presence posed…
Itelca Gillispie, Merritt Centennials.
Good luck Merritt Centennials hockey players and your move to the KHL league.
The end of 51 years,they remain a force in Merritt.
Looking ahead
CBC Gem offers many services including sports broadcasting. Get the free app and link your phone…
Happy sports viewing…
Disclaimer: This is not an ad; it is posting news and soliciting comment interaction and viewpoints.
Hey Merit what do you say?
Kevin Griffiths
percypaschal
The Proprietor Review 