Relevant danger or not… May 2025
Continue readingCategory: Antiques
There was a young man going around the area of Quilchena and Chapman with a gas sniffer he said that it is routine testing and that you can expect that a test sniffer will be about every five years in residential areas. There is a Fortis BC test annually.
Leaking Natural gas smells like rotten eggs and is unmistakable.
The man has a proper picture ID around his neck that identifies him.
Cautions to employ…
Yes, gas leaks can certainly be a problem in British Columbia communities, and people should absolutely be aware of the potential dangers. While FortisBC reports a downward trend in gas line damages, largely due to increased use of BC 1 Call before digging, incidents still occur, and they can be serious.
Here’s a breakdown of the problem and potential dangers:
The Problem in BC:
* Underground Gas Line Damages: A significant number of gas leaks in BC are caused by individuals (homeowners, landscapers, contractors) who dig without first contacting BC 1 Call to locate buried utility lines. In 2024, nearly 60% of gas line damages were attributed to this. Surrey, Vancouver, and Kelowna have seen the highest numbers of these incidents.
* Industrial/Wellsite Leaks: The oil and gas sector also experiences leaks. There have been reports of “serious” leaks at well sites, some with high levels of methane and potentially fatal levels of hydrogen sulphide.
* Appliance Malfunctions/Improper Installation: While less frequently highlighted in recent news, gas leaks can also stem from faulty appliances, improper installation, or lack of maintenance in homes and businesses.
* Explosions and Injuries: There have been documented cases of gas line explosions causing significant property damage and injuries, some serious. For example, investigations into incidents in Comox and Fernie in 2021-2022 caused extensive damage and injured 30 people. A recent incident (April 2025) at a gas plant north of Fort St. John, where a pipe was struck, resulted in one fatality and one injury.
Potential Dangers of Gas Leaks:
The primary dangers associated with gas leaks are:
* Fire and Explosions: This is perhaps the most immediate and devastating risk. Natural gas is highly flammable. If it accumulates in an enclosed space and comes into contact with an ignition source (a spark from a light switch, a phone, an appliance, a cigarette, etc.), it can lead to a catastrophic explosion and fire, causing severe injuries or fatalities, and extensive property damage.
* Asphyxiation (Oxygen Depletion): While natural gas itself is not toxic, it can displace oxygen in an enclosed space. If the concentration of gas in the air becomes high enough, it can lead to a lack of oxygen, causing dizziness, fatigue, nausea, unconsciousness, and in severe cases, death. This is particularly dangerous in confined spaces.
* Health Hazards (e.g., Hydrogen Sulphide): In some instances, particularly with leaks from oil and gas wells, other gases like hydrogen sulphide (H2S) can be present. H2S is highly toxic and can cause serious health issues, even at low concentrations, including headaches, nausea, dizziness, and at higher levels, can be rapidly fatal.
* Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: While not a direct result of a natural gas leak, if natural gas appliances are not properly vented or maintained, they can produce carbon monoxide (CO). CO is an odorless, colorless, and highly toxic gas that can lead to severe illness or death. This is why having CO detectors is crucial.
What People Should Be Aware Of and What To Do:
* Smell of Rotten Eggs: Natural gas is odorless, but a chemical called mercaptan is added to give it a distinct “rotten egg” smell. If you smell this, it’s a strong indicator of a gas leak.
* Other Signs:
* Hissing or roaring sound near a gas line or appliance.
* Bubbles in water (if the leak is outside in a puddle).
* Blowing dust or discolored/dying plants near a gas line.
* Act Fast and Evacuate: If you suspect a gas leak:
* Stop what you’re doing immediately. Do not use any electrical switches (lights, appliances, phones), do not light matches, smoke, or create any other potential ignition source.
* Go outside immediately. Take everyone with you, and as you exit, leave doors and windows open if possible to allow the gas to dissipate.
* Once in a safe place, call for help. Do NOT call from inside the building. Call 911 or the FortisBC Emergency Line at 1-800-663-9911. Do not assume someone else has called.
* “Call Before You Dig”: This is paramount for preventing damage to buried gas lines. Before any excavation project, big or small (even planting a tree), contact BC 1 Call at least three business days in advance. It’s a free service that provides information on buried utility lines.
* Regular Maintenance: Have your natural gas appliances regularly serviced by a licensed natural gas contractor. This ensures they are operating efficiently and safely.
* Know Your Shut-Off Valve: Familiarize yourself with the location of your main natural gas shut-off valve and how to turn it off in an emergency.
* Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors: While distinct from a natural gas leak, these are vital for detecting CO, a dangerous byproduct of incomplete combustion from gas appliances.
In summary, while efforts are being made to reduce gas leak incidents in British Columbia, they remain a potential danger that residents should be aware of. Knowing the signs of a leak and, more importantly, knowing how to react swiftly and safely, is crucial for protecting lives and property.
Merritt BC Canada
When preparing to visit a tourist information center, it’s helpful to gather any necessary documents, such as identification or travel itineraries, and to familiarize yourself with the local area and its attractions. Expect to find friendly staff ready to assist you with maps, brochures, and recommendations tailored to your interests. You can also anticipate finding information on transportation options, local events, and possible guided tours. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, as they can provide valuable insights and tips to enhance your visit.
There is a time capsule in the garden at the Baillee house historical site in Merritt. The capsule was due January one 2025. Will be opened June 14 th. Hot dogs available 11am to 3 PM…
The Baillie house is at the downtown Tourist info Center 2202 Voght street in Merritt BC Canada.
Tall tales take time…
Dates from the opening of the Coquihalla highway 25 years or so ago. Should be…
There should be another popular culture that says one was placed near the Hyway and the podium used by then premier Bill Bennett as he opened the highway after coming up in his yellow convertible car.
Local popular culture says nobody remembers where it is.
May 16 1986 But who’s counting?
Things that firsted June…
June 1st has been a day of many significant “firsts” throughout history. Here are a few notable examples:
* 1495: First known batch of Scotch whisky recorded. A monk named John Cor is credited with recording the first known batch of Scotch whisky.
* 1533: Anne Boleyn crowned Queen of England. Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s second wife, was crowned Queen of England in Westminster Abbey.
* 1831: North Magnetic Pole discovered. The British explorer James Clark Ross became the first European to discover the North Magnetic Pole.
* 1869: Thomas Edison granted his first patent. The famous inventor Thomas Edison received his first patent for an electrical vote recorder. While this invention was not successful, it marked the beginning of his prolific career.
* 1938: Protective helmets worn by baseball batters for the first time. This marked a significant advancement in player safety in the sport.
* 1945: First group of Berlin women begin clearing rubble after WWII. Known as the “Trümmerfrauen” (rubble women), these women played a crucial role in the reconstruction of Germany after the devastation of World War II.
* 1974: The Heimlich maneuver is published. Henry Heimlich’s life-saving technique for stopping choking was first published in a medical journal.
* 1980: CNN begins broadcasting. Ted Turner’s Cable News Network (CNN) launched, becoming the first 24-hour news channel.
And you thought that June was bland!
Charm as a value
Personal charm can be interpreted as a combination of charisma, confidence, and genuine interpersonal skills that make individuals attractive and engaging to others. To apply personal charm effectively, focus on active listening, show genuine interest in others, maintain positive body language, and use humor appropriately. Engaging with sincerity, remembering names, and offering compliments also enhance your charm. Ultimately, it’s about creating a comfortable atmosphere where others feel valued and heard, fostering authentic connections that can lead to more meaningful relationships.
Food and music add to charm.
Queen Victoria is short for Victorious, is and is a translation of the name Boudicca from the Early on 1st millennium common era when Boudicca attempted to drive the Romans from Britain.
Home rule + pax Britannia was accomplished in the first half of the 19th century when Boudicca’s namesake accomplished it, noted as a Golden age for humanity cuz relative peace was in place.
Peace was relative particularly because the US civil war raged.
So, to give Peace a try, we won’t publish Sunday and Monday as You observe any relativity that makes you happy.
💪🌹🍰👍🐸🎂😔✨👀📜🤔🍖🪭💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋
Do you have a quote you live your life by or think of often?
Homer’s Home
We are the descendents of the Greek enlightenment…
Some moments build, excite, engage, test and then after a time revive…
The values of the liberty fraternity, which typically include principles such as freedom, equality, justice, and fraternity, are often conceived in various philosophical, political, and social contexts. Here are some key sources where these ideas have developed:
- Enlightenment Philosophy: Thinkers like John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Montesquieu explored ideas of individual rights and social contracts, laying the foundation for modern liberal democracy.
- Political Revolutions: The American and French Revolutions were pivotal events that advocated for liberty and equality, leading to constitutions and declarations that enshrined these values.
- Human Rights Movements: Throughout history, various movements aimed at securing human rights have articulated the principles of liberty and justice for all, emphasizing the need for equal treatment and respect.
- Social and Cultural Contexts: Different cultures have their interpretations of liberty and fraternity, shaped by their unique histories and struggles for freedom.
These ideas continue to evolve as societies seek to balance individual freedoms with collective responsibility.
Get away
British Columbia is renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes, making it a prime destination for mountain resorts and getaways. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Accessibility:
* Accessibility varies depending on the resort. Some, like Whistler Blackcomb, are easily accessible from major cities like Vancouver. Others, located in more remote areas, may require longer drives or even flights.
* Many of the larger ski resorts are accessible by well maintained roads. However, winter driving in B.C. mountains requires appropriate vehicle and driving skill.
Affordability:
* Price points range significantly. Luxury resorts like those in Whistler can be quite expensive, while smaller, family-run resorts may offer more affordable options.
* Factors influencing cost include:
* Time of year (peak ski season vs. off-season)
* Accommodation type (luxury hotel vs. condo or cabin)
* Activities and amenities offered.
Parks:
* Some resorts are located within or near provincial parks, offering access to beautiful natural surroundings.
* While many ski resorts exist within areas of natural beauty, they are not often located within national parks. National parks have very strict regulations regarding development.
* Provincial parks however, do have areas that allow for recreational resorts and areas. Manning Park Resort for example, is located within Manning Provincial Park.
Recommendations:
* Whistler Blackcomb:
* This is one of North America’s premier ski resorts, offering world-class skiing, snowboarding, and a vibrant village.
* It’s relatively accessible from Vancouver.
* Price point: High-end, with a wide range of accommodation options.
* Revelstoke Mountain Resort:
* Known for its incredible vertical drop and challenging terrain.
* Offers a mix of skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.
* It is located in a beautiful mountain setting.
* Price point: Mid to high range.
* Sun Peaks Resort:
* A family-friendly resort with a charming village atmosphere.
* Offers a variety of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing.
* Price point: Mid-range, with various accommodation options.
* Panorama Mountain Resort:
* This resort provides a wide range of activities, and has a very nice village area.
* It is a good location for family vacations.
* Price point: Mid range.
* Fernie Alpine Resort:
* Known for its abundant snowfall and excellent powder skiing.
* Located in the southeastern corner of B.C.
* Price point: Mid-range.
Important Considerations:
* When planning a mountain getaway, consider the time of year. Winter is ideal for skiing and snowboarding, while summer offers hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities.
* Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak season.
* Be prepared for varying weather conditions, particularly in the mountains.
I hope this information helps you plan your perfect mountain getaway in British Columbia!
The premier of Alberta has doubled her bacon consumption + has her eye on beef. In the sense that made in Canada a solution to sales can be achieved, so bacon up.
Beef and pork production by country
Five Largest Beef Producing Countries
- United States
- Brazil
- European Union
- China
- Argentina
Five Largest Pork Producing Countries
- China
- United States
- European Union
- Brazil
- Russia
Consumers
Five Greatest Beef Consuming Countries
- United States – Approximately 26 million metric tons
- Brazil – About 10 million metric tons
- China – Roughly 10 million metric tons
- Argentina – Around 3 million metric tons
- Mexico – Approximately 2 million metric tons
Five Greatest Pork Consuming Countries
- China – Roughly 54 million metric tons
- United States – About 12 million metric tons
- European Union – Approximately 12 million metric tons
- Russia – Around 3 million metric tons
- Brazil – About 3 million metric tons
Good Luck
Farms and Rancheswith Beef Cattle2021 Census of Agricuiture11,1millionTotal Cattle and CalvesDary 1, 20242.1% fromJanuary 1, 2023(includes 1.4 million dairy cattle)Statistics Canada3.46millionBeef CowsJanuary1, 2024Down 2.4% fromJanuary 1, 2023Statistics CanadaQuebec 40Atlantic 2020 40 60#of Head (May 11, 2021)2021 Census of AgicultureBeef Cows by ProvinceJanuary 1,2024Statistics Canade: inventory x 1000 headPercentages may not add to 100% due to rounding5% 45%28% 11%1831.556 L 6% 1980 381 215117Average Cost of Production vs.Average Returns on anAlberta 550 Ib Calf*Price S/cwt EST. Total Costs per cwt3.1262.1161.1.690 92 94 96 98 00 02 04 06 08 10 12 14 16 18 20 22Canfax Research Services23% of farms havebetween 47 and 122 cows.with 956,118 beef cows, 26%of the herd.15% of farms have1% of the farms between 123 and 499 cows.have 13% of the with 1.21 million beef cows,45% of the herd.beef cows, between 2021 Census of Agriculture500 and 2,499 on Results rounded to nearesteach farm. whole numberCanada fed 3.1 million cattle in2023 (finished to market weight)down 4.4% from 2022.Canfax, Statistics Canada, AAFCWestern Canada finishes 79%of all fed cattle in Canada. canfaxIn 2023, Canadaproduced 3.44bilion pounosnof beef,offals), down 4.6% 3.44from 2022. BillionCanfax Research Services PoundsCattle and calf cash receiptsin 2023 totaled $15.0 billion,up 26% from 2022. statistics CanadaBeef production contributed$29 billion to Canada’s GDP(2021-2023 average).Canfax Research ServicesWHERE CANADA TRADESBeef Exports – 20231.1 billion pounds (499 million kg)75.2% United States2.9% South Korea9.1% Japan6.5% Mexico3.4% Other3.0% Southeast AsiaBeef Imports – 2023411 million pounds (187 milion kg)53.0% United States9.7% New Zealand6.4% Uruguay10.9% Australia6.2% Mexico13.8% otherStatistics CanadaIn 2023, Canada exported 51% of totalbeef and cattle produced in Canada.Statistics Canada, Canfax, AAFCIn 2023, 45% of Canadian productionwas exported (excluding slaughter cattle).Statistics Canada, Canfax, AAFCCanadian beef exports were valued at$5.02 billion in 2023, up 7.4% from$4.68 billion in 2022.Statistics CanadaCANADIAN BEEF What are wecONSUMPTION really eating?35.8 Ibs(16.2 kg)per person yearlyDown 7.2% versus last year.1 metric tonne = 2,204.6 lbs.Statistics Canada, Retail weight, 2023WHERE CANADA FITSTop 10 Beef Producing Nations – 2024fUnited States 19.72%Brazil 18.57%China 12.769%EU 10.65%India 7.57%Argentina a 5.20%Australia Canada 3.97%has 1.2% of theMexico world’s 942 million, 3.75%cattle.Russia 2.29%Canada 2.16%59% 10% 15% 20% 25%Canada produces 2% of the world’s beef supply. Worldwide beefproduction is forecast to be 60.4 million metric tonnes in 2024.USDATop 10 Beef Exporting Nations- 2024fAPvoorts)(excludes live slaughterBrazil 23.75%India 13.82%United States 12.97%Australia 10.31%Argentina 7.46%New Zealand 5.59%EU 4.86%Canada 4.54%Uruguay 3.85%Paraguay 3.65%5% 10% 15% 20% 25%Total world exports in 2024 are forecast to be 12.3 million metric tonnesand Canada is projected to be the 8th largest beef exporter in the world(excluding live slaughter exports).USDACanadian Beef ConsumptionDomestic Imports1.2001.00080060040020002 04 06 08 10 12 14 16 18Canadians consumed 924,283 metric tonnes of beef in 2023.Statistics Canada
Farms and Rancheswith Beef Cattle2021 Census of Agricuiture11,1millionTotal Cattle and CalvesDary 1, 20242.1% fromJanuary 1, 2023(includes 1.4 million dairy cattle)Statistics Canada3.46millionBeef CowsJanuary1, 2024Down 2.4% fromJanuary 1, 2023Statistics CanadaQuebec 40Atlantic 2020 40 60#of Head (May 11, 2021)2021 Census of AgicultureBeef Cows by ProvinceJanuary 1,2024Statistics Canade: inventory x 1000 headPercentages may not add to 100% due to rounding5% 45%28% 11%1831.556 L 6% 1980 381 215117Average Cost of Production vs.Average Returns on anAlberta 550 Ib Calf*Price S/cwt EST. Total Costs per cwt3.1262.1161.1.690 92 94 96 98 00 02 04 06 08 10 12 14 16 18 20 22Canfax Research Services23% of farms havebetween 47 and 122 cows.with 956,118 beef cows, 26%of the herd.15% of farms have1% of the farms between 123 and 499 cows.have 13% of the with 1.21 million beef cows,45% of the herd.beef cows, between 2021 Census of Agriculture500 and 2,499 on Results rounded to nearesteach farm. whole numberCanada fed 3.1 million cattle in2023 (finished to market weight)down 4.4% from 2022.Canfax, Statistics Canada, AAFCWestern Canada finishes 79%of all fed cattle in Canada. canfaxIn 2023, Canadaproduced 3.44bilion pounosnof beef,offals), down 4.6% 3.44from 2022. BillionCanfax Research Services PoundsCattle and calf cash receiptsin 2023 totaled $15.0 billion,up 26% from 2022. statistics CanadaBeef production contributed$29 billion to Canada’s GDP(2021-2023 average).Canfax Research ServicesWHERE CANADA TRADESBeef Exports – 20231.1 billion pounds (499 million kg)75.2% United States2.9% South Korea9.1% Japan6.5% Mexico3.4% Other3.0% Southeast AsiaBeef Imports – 2023411 million pounds (187 milion kg)53.0% United States9.7% New Zealand6.4% Uruguay10.9% Australia6.2% Mexico13.8% otherStatistics CanadaIn 2023, Canada exported 51% of totalbeef and cattle produced in Canada.Statistics Canada, Canfax, AAFCIn 2023, 45% of Canadian productionwas exported (excluding slaughter cattle).Statistics Canada, Canfax, AAFCCanadian beef exports were valued at$5.02 billion in 2023, up 7.4% from$4.68 billion in 2022.Statistics CanadaCANADIAN BEEF What are wecONSUMPTION really eating?35.8 Ibs(16.2 kg)per person yearlyDown 7.2% versus last year.1 metric tonne = 2,204.6 lbs.Statistics Canada, Retail weight, 2023WHERE CANADA FITSTop 10 Beef Producing Nations – 2024fUnited States 19.72%Brazil 18.57%China 12.769%EU 10.65%India 7.57%Argentina a 5.20%Australia Canada 3.97%has 1.2% of theMexico world’s 942 million, 3.75%cattle.Russia 2.29%Canada 2.16%59% 10% 15% 20% 25%Canada produces 2% of the world’s beef supply. Worldwide beefproduction is forecast to be 60.4 million metric tonnes in 2024.USDATop 10 Beef Exporting Nations- 2024fAPvoorts)(excludes live slaughterBrazil 23.75%India 13.82%United States 12.97%Australia 10.31%Argentina 7.46%New Zealand 5.59%EU 4.86%Canada 4.54%Uruguay 3.85%Paraguay 3.65%5% 10% 15% 20% 25%Total world exports in 2024 are forecast to be 12.3 million metric tonnesand Canada is projected to be the 8th largest beef exporter in the world(excluding live slaughter exports).USDACanadian Beef ConsumptionDomestic Imports1.2001.00080060040020002 04 06 08 10 12 14 16 18Canadians consumed 924,283 metric tonnes of beef in 2023.Statistics Canada
Kevin Griffiths
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The Proprietor Review 