Category: Enterprize


Grannies corner, Valley Craze cafe, Merritt BC, Canada

Remember the great Canadians

I can see by the clock on the wall. It’s time to bid one and all. This was the poetic beginning of the closing to the Wayne and Schuster show when I was a kid. So it’s appropriate to be in Granny’s corner at the coffee house off  Nicola Avenue.

Just around the back with signage ” this parking lot is not ours” is a delightful nook for baking coffee and  conversation.

There is two hours on street unmetered parking on Nicola Avenue which is highway eight out of town to the Coquihalla and 5A + West to Spences Bridge.

Valley Graze

2114 Nicola Ave, Merritt BC, open 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. most days.

Remember the clock on the wall.

Got a bunch? There is a municipal parking lot within easy walking at the corner of Granite avenue and Garcia street; unmetered.

Canada’s electric vehicle (EV) market is experiencing significant growth in both production and consumption. Here’s a summary:
Production:
* While Canada doesn’t have a large number of domestic EV manufacturers compared to other countries, it is making strides in this area. Several companies are investing in EV production and battery manufacturing facilities in Canada.
* The Canadian government is actively promoting the development of the EV industry through various incentives and investments. This is attracting both established automakers and new players to set up production facilities in the country.
* Canada is also rich in resources needed for battery production, such as lithium, nickel, and cobalt. This gives the country a competitive advantage in the EV market.
Consumption:
* EV sales in Canada have been steadily increasing in recent years. In 2023, zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) accounted for 11.7% of new light-duty vehicle sales, a significant jump from previous years.
* Several factors are driving this increase in EV adoption, including government incentives, growing awareness of environmental issues, and the increasing availability of EV models.
* British Columbia and Quebec are leading the way in EV adoption, with higher market shares compared to other provinces.
Overall, the Canadian EV market is dynamic and growing rapidly. With increasing production capacity and strong consumer demand, EVs are expected to play a significant role in Canada’s transportation sector in the coming years.

Comics for investing…

Comic book collection

Investing in comic books and publications can be a fascinating and potentially lucrative endeavor. It combines a passion for the art form with the possibility of financial returns. However, it’s essential to approach it with knowledge and a clear understanding of the market. Here’s a breakdown of key aspects:
What Makes a Comic Book Valuable?
* Rarity: The fewer copies available, the higher the value. This can be due to limited print runs, errors, or damage over time.
* Condition: A comic book’s grade significantly impacts its price. Factors like spine creases, tears, and discoloration are considered.
* Historical Significance: First appearances of popular characters, key storylines, and landmark issues hold greater value.
* Demand: Popularity and cultural relevance drive demand. This can be influenced by movies, TV shows, and general fandom.
Types of Comic Book Investments:
* Golden Age (1938-1950s): These are the earliest comic books, often featuring iconic characters like Superman and Batman. They are generally the most expensive and sought-after.
* Silver Age (1956-1970): This era saw the rise of Marvel Comics and introduced characters like Spider-Man and the X-Men.
* Bronze Age (1970-1985): This period explored darker themes and introduced many beloved characters.
* Modern Age (1985-present): While newer comics are generally less valuable, some have the potential to appreciate if they feature significant events or characters.
Where to Buy and Sell:
* Local Comic Book Stores: These are great for browsing, building relationships with experts, and finding hidden gems.
* Online Marketplaces: eBay, MyComicShop, and others offer a vast selection but require careful inspection and buyer protection.
* Comic Conventions: Cons provide opportunities to buy, sell, and network with collectors and dealers.
* Auction Houses: For high-value and rare comics, auction houses like Sotheby’s and Heritage Auctions are options.
Tips for Investing:
* Do Your Research: Understand the market, grading standards, and key issues.
* Focus on Quality: Invest in high-grade comics to maximize potential returns.
* Diversify Your Portfolio: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Spread your investments across different eras and characters.
* Store Properly: Protect your comics from damage by using proper storage methods.
* Be Patient: Comic book investing is a long-term game. Don’t expect overnight riches.
* Consider Professional Grading: Services like CGC and CBCS authenticate and grade comics, which can increase their value.
Risks and Considerations:
* Market Fluctuations: Like any investment, the comic book market can be volatile.
* Counterfeits: Be wary of fakes and reproductions.
* Grading Disputes: Disagreements on a comic’s grade can affect its value.
* Storage Costs: Proper storage can be expensive, especially for large collections.
Is it Right for You?
Investing in comic books can be a rewarding experience for those passionate about the hobby. However, it’s crucial to approach it with realistic expectations and a solid understanding of the market. If you’re looking for a quick return, this might not be the best investment. But if you’re a fan of comics and willing to do your research, it can be a fun and potentially profitable venture.
Remember: Always consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Take that hockey cards…

Construction up…

From December 2024.

Lead by Ontario and British Columbia construction values and permits were up considerably at the end of last year

Eggextactly; the stats are in and 2024 saw an increase in poultry things.

So, covid-19, avian flu, war and insurrection, and we go on and on. Thank you fellow Canadians and friends we have had some dark times. We have every confidence in the strength of our communities. + The will of people to succeed as it produces a lifestyle worthy of us.

Research an issue or event publish it for gain.

Write it up, there is profit in all work.

MLA  APA does a paper… Beat the fake stuff.

Let’s explore some different ways to research a topic!  I’ll break it down into categories and give examples.  The best approach often involves combining several of these methods.
1. Traditional Academic Research:
* Library Resources:
   * Books:  In-depth information, often peer-reviewed. Use library catalogs (online or physical) to find relevant books.
   * Academic Journals:  Scholarly articles, often presenting original research.  Databases like JSTOR, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and others are crucial. Your local library likely provides access.
   * Reference Works: Encyclopedias (like Britannica or specialized subject encyclopedias), dictionaries, handbooks, and atlases provide background information and context.
   * Special Collections/Archives:  Unique primary sources like letters, diaries, manuscripts, and photographs, valuable for historical research.
* Online Databases:  Beyond library databases, explore free or paid online databases relevant to your topic.  Examples include government data repositories, news archives, and specialized research databases.
2. Digital Research (Beyond the Library):
* Search Engines (Strategically):  Use advanced search operators (like quotation marks for exact phrases, minus sign to exclude words, site: to search within a specific website) to refine your searches.  Be critical of the information you find, as not everything online is reliable.
* Reputable Websites:  Look for websites of established organizations, institutions, government agencies, and experts in the field. Check for author credentials, sources cited, and potential biases.
* Digital Archives:  Many archives are going digital, making their collections accessible online.
* Online Communities and Forums:  While not always scholarly, these can offer insights into different perspectives and real-world experiences related to your topic. Be cautious about verifying information found in these spaces.
* Multimedia Resources:  Podcasts, videos (YouTube channels of experts, documentaries), and online courses can offer engaging ways to learn about a topic.
3. Primary Research (Gathering Your Own Data):
* Interviews:  Talking to experts or people with relevant experience can provide valuable firsthand information.  Prepare your questions in advance.
* Surveys:  Collecting data from a larger group of people through questionnaires.  Careful design of the survey is essential.
* Experiments:  If your topic lends itself to it, conducting experiments can help you test hypotheses.
* Observations:  Observing real-world situations related to your topic can offer valuable insights.
* Document Analysis:  Examining existing documents (letters, reports, contracts, etc.) to glean information.
4. Exploring Different Perspectives:
* Consider Multiple Viewpoints:  Don’t just rely on sources that agree with your existing beliefs.  Seek out different perspectives and arguments to get a more complete picture.
* Look for Bias:  Be aware that all sources have some degree of bias.  Consider the author’s background, potential motivations, and funding sources.
* Consult Diverse Sources:  Don’t just rely on sources from one country or cultural group.  Explore perspectives from different parts of the world.
5. Organizing Your Research:
* Note-Taking:  Develop a consistent system for taking notes.  Include source information so you can properly cite your work.
* Citation Management Tools:  Tools like Zotero or Mendeley can help you organize your sources and create bibliographies.
* Mind Mapping:  Creating a visual representation of your research can help you see connections between different ideas.
Example: Researching Climate Change
* Traditional: Read IPCC reports (academic), search for peer-reviewed articles on climate modeling (journals), consult an encyclopedia of environmental science.
* Digital: Explore NASA’s climate change website (reputable), watch documentaries on climate change impacts, follow climate scientists on social media.
* Primary: Interview a climate scientist, analyze local weather data, observe changes in your local environment.
* Perspectives: Read articles from different political viewpoints on climate change, consider the perspectives of developing nations.
Remember to always evaluate your sources critically and cite them properly to avoid plagiarism.  Good luck with your research!

Then make a video..

Don’t be nice…

Canadians should be: Tough on what could be “continued Vasseliseing”! Opinion.

Editor’s Note:

There is Merit in the problems and the solutions are in reach. No panic, application mutes action when settled. Always keep the conversation going and civil.

Troy lives on

This looks good…

Headquartered in El Paso, Texas. This company has a very interesting code of conduct for its products. It seems to be fitting with the need at this time to address unethical trade practices that might attract sanctions from an incoming new government.

The company does more than 200 Billion annually in claimed ethical wares.

Ethically sourced supply chains are scrutinized for things like child labor, slave labor. 

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Wednesday charm

Get it in get it good get it glad.

Some small joys are back in BC

The joy of skiing is back for BC, while just at bay extreme weather and dangerous temperatures are muted and we hope not just a window.

Happy first day of 2025.

To maximize enjoyment and safety while downhill skiing in British Columbia, consider these factors:
Timing:
* Shoulder Seasons (November/Early December & March/April):
   * Pros: Fewer crowds, potentially better deals on accommodation and lift tickets, pleasant weather.
   * Cons: Snow conditions may be less consistent, some lifts/terrain might be closed.
* Peak Season (December-February):
   * Pros: Consistent snow, wide variety of open terrain, festive atmosphere.
   * Cons: Higher prices, longer lift lines, more crowded slopes.
Location:
* Whistler Blackcomb: World-renowned, diverse terrain, excellent snow record.
* Revelstoke Mountain Resort: Massive vertical drop, challenging terrain, incredible powder.
* Kicking Horse Mountain Resort: Steep and challenging, unique terrain, stunning scenery.
* Sun Peaks Resort: Family-friendly, good value, variety of terrain.
* Smaller Resorts: Often offer a more relaxed atmosphere, shorter lift lines, and unique charm.
Safety:
* Take a lesson: Even experienced skiers can benefit from a refresher or learn new techniques.
* Rent appropriate equipment: Make sure your skis/snowboard and boots fit properly.
* Ski within your ability: Don’t attempt runs that are too difficult for you.
* Be aware of your surroundings: Look uphill before merging onto the run.
* Control your speed: Adjust your speed to match the conditions and other skiers.
* Stay hydrated and nourished: Bring snacks and water to avoid fatigue and dehydration.
* Wear a helmet: Helmets are essential for safety.
Practical Tips:
* Book accommodations and lift tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
* Check the snow report and weather forecast before you go.
* Pack layers of clothing to adjust to changing temperatures.
* Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm.
* Consider purchasing a season pass or multi-day lift ticket for significant savings.
* Take advantage of après-ski activities to relax and socialize.
By following these tips, you can enhance your enjoyment and ensure a safe and memorable downhill skiing experience in British Columbia.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered professional advice. Always prioritize safety and consult with qualified instructors or guides for specific situations.

500 million dollars BC Hydro. This project is going to be done by BC Hydro. Although their name Hydro connotates the fact that they own every drop of water in British Columbia as a monopoly for power generation. They are expanding wind farms and power smart are in their resume.

New

Environmental assessment waived

The company has just been directed to do everything as efficiently as possible and they’re waiving the environmental assessment. Which may in one case be reasonable because of the wind and its passiveness. However, they are notorious for bird kills and I would think that would be part of the environment. More on this later we hope. Maybe we can get a quote from theNicola Naturalist Society Incorporated. Alan Berger president.

Good luck

MCC

Where else are you going to be?…

This is not an ad  it’s an opportunity to comment.

The Merritt and District Chamber of Commerce  is long in the tooth here in our South Central interior British Columbia town /city.

We have observed over time the effectiveness of this small organization + its worthiness by being linked to numbers of other organizations such as local government, provincial government hydro. And anybody? Trying to make a buck in a livelihood in our country, CC work.

Our life here above 600 m would not be the same without the hard-working volunteers and business people that come together in this medium.

We recall that the first bit of fiber optic cable came to the local chamber of Commerce office when it was located in the Grand hotel on Garcia and Nicola in Merritt.

Generations have come and gone and had their time and got their hands dirty in the Commerce and construction of the business community here.

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Tanker traffic up…

The amount of tractor traffic off Vancouver is increasing exponentially with trans mountains, a new ability to move Alberta oil from the BC Coast. Recently a shipment. I left Vancouver for Alaska, the first in about a decade.

TMX

The recent completion of the Trans mountain expansion, another line going along the one from the 1950s has tripled the ability to move tarsands oil or Alberta oil to other markets.

50 basis points cut

So, that’s an experience that is developing. Possibly up to $50,000 purchasing power. Added to buying a home today.

Rate cut

Some hope,  some relief in the cost of housing in Canada.