Down town Merritt
The local community provided about 50 some odd floats and had a very nice well-lit parade and cool weather and temperatures after snowfall yesterday.
Classic cars
Local Enthusiasts
Well done
Next year comes quick…
Category: Journalism
Classic cars
The left hand side of a set of medieval armor is the sinister side. The left hand of a left-handed person is the swinster’s side, don’t confuse the two. You may come home to a Lance you didn’t know existed.
Branding
Muddy Evils
Real place
Swinister is a real place, specifically a small settlement (hamlet) in the Shetland Islands of Scotland. While it sounds like a fictional word made to sound creepy, it has a distinct historical and linguistic origin rooted in Old Norse.
Here is a breakdown of what it is, what it means, and the specific atmosphere a town named “Swinister” would evoke.
1. What is it?
Swinister is a hamlet located on the Mainland of Shetland (the largest island in the archipelago). It is best known for a geological feature called the Ayres of Swinister, which is a “triple ayre” (a rare formation of three shingle beaches or sandbars that connect a small island to the mainland, forming a tidal lagoon).
2. What does it mean?
(Etymology)The name comes from Old Norse, the language spoken by the Vikings who settled the islands. It is a compound of two words: * Swin: Derived from either the Old Norse svín (meaning “swine” or “pig”) or the male personal name Sveinn (Sven). * Ister: A corruption of the Old Norse setr, meaning “dwelling,” “homestead,” or “pasture.”Therefore, Swinister literally translates to “Pig Farm” (or “Pig Pasture”) or “Svein’s Homestead.
“3. What would a town named “Swinister” connotate?
If you were writing a story or naming a fictional town “Swinister,” the name does heavy lifting because of its accidental association with modern English words. It carries a dual connotation:A. The “Folk Horror” Connotation (Linguistic)To a modern English speaker unaware of Norse etymology, “Swinister” sounds like a portmanteau of Swine and Sinister. * The Vibe: It sounds unsettling, rural, and perhaps morally corrupt. It evokes imagery of a backwater village with dark secrets, possibly involving gluttony, filth (swine), or ancient, malevolent traditions (sinister).
* The Setting:
Perfect for a Gothic horror story or a murder mystery set in a decaying agricultural community where the locals are hostile to outsiders.B. The “Rugged Northern” Connotation (Historical)To those familiar with Scottish or Nordic geography, the name connotes ancient history and rugged endurance. * The Vibe: Windswept, cold, isolated, and stoic. It suggests a place connected to the sea and the land, where life is hard and determined by the elements. * The Setting: A realistic historical drama or a nature-focused narrative about isolation in the North Sea.
Summary * Real Definition:
A remote hamlet in Shetland, Scotland, famous for a rare three-beach geological formation.
* Literal Meaning:
“Pig Farm” or “Sven’s Farm” (Old Norse).
* Fictional Connotation:
A “sinister” rural village, likely harboring dark secrets or ancient, muddy evils.
Editors Note:
Merciful thoughts to all left hand d or sinister folks over time if they suffered for it, ( more probly a motivator) in the best s mse.
If you want to borrow trouble, ask about the retail and the wholesale off street parking obligations of businesses in any small town.
Comments Please 🥺🥺🥺🥺
The BCGEU action
The local government LCB store has job action. Pickets could be seen and activity as members demonstrated negotiation tactics in the Railyard mall On October weekdays.
Is there a strike in BC now.
Current Strike in British Columbia
As of now, several labor unions in British Columbia are engaging in strike actions to advocate for better working conditions, wages, and negotiations with employers. One notable example is the BC General Employees’ Union (BCGEU), which has been actively participating in job actions across various sectors, including local government.
Recent Actions
Members of the BCGEU have been seen demonstrating in notable locations, such as the Railyard Mall, where they conducted picketing and showcased negotiation tactics aimed at raising awareness about their demands.
Key Objectives
The primary objectives of these strikes often include:
- Improved wages
- Better working conditions
- Enhanced job security
- Fair treatment and respect in the workplace
Impact on Communities
Such strikes can lead to temporary disruptions in services provided by the affected sectors and often draw attention to the broader issues faced by workers. It is essential for the community to understand these actions as a part of ongoing efforts to achieve fair labor practices.
For more visual insights, you can check out this video showcasing recent BCGEU activities.
Conclusion
The situation continues to evolve, and it is important for both employees and employers to engage in constructive dialogue to reach a mutually beneficial resolution. Stay tuned for updates on the progress of these necessary discussions.
The structured Media in Canada regulated licensed and superlative lost one of its own Beverly Thompson at 61 years old died of cancer.
On this Day: August 26th 2002
The Earth summit 2002 begins in Johannesburg South Africa.
You’re looking to research products, specifically focusing on comparisons and reviews! That’s a great way to make informed purchasing decisions. Here’s a breakdown of how to approach it, considering different types of reviews and where to find them:
I. Types of Reviews & What to Look For
When researching products, you’ll encounter a few different types of reviews, and each offers unique insights:
* Expert Reviews:
* What they offer: In-depth analysis, technical specifications, performance benchmarks, comparisons to competitors within the same category, and often a professional’s perspective on design and usability. They are usually written by journalists, testers, or specialists in the field.
* What to look for: Detailed testing methodologies, clear pros and cons, how the product performs under various conditions, and an overall assessment of its value for money. They often have a deeper understanding of the product’s internal components and how they impact performance.
* Limitations: May not always reflect real-world, long-term usage, and their personal preferences might not align with yours. Sometimes, sponsored content can subtly influence their opinions, so look for transparency.
* User/Customer Reviews:
* What they offer: Real-world experiences, practical insights into daily use, feedback on customer service, durability over time, and a broader range of opinions from different types of users. They can highlight unexpected issues or benefits.
* What to look for: Common themes across multiple reviews (e.g., many people mention battery life, or a specific design flaw), reviews with photos or videos, and reviews from users who have similar needs or use cases to you.
* Limitations: Can be biased (either overly positive or negative), may lack technical understanding, and some reviews might be fake or incentivized. A single bad review doesn’t necessarily mean a bad product, just as a single glowing review doesn’t guarantee perfection.
II. Where to Find Product Comparisons and Reviews
Here are some excellent sources for researching products:
A. General Product Review & Price Comparison Sites:
These sites often offer a mix of expert analysis and aggregated user reviews, and many also include price comparison features.
* Google Shopping / Bing Shopping: Excellent for price comparisons across a vast number of retailers. They also often include product details and links to reviews.
* Bizrate, Shopzilla, PriceRunner, Shopping.com: These are dedicated price comparison platforms that also provide product information and often link to reviews.
* Camelcamelcamel: Specifically for Amazon, this site tracks price history, which is incredibly useful for knowing if a “deal” is actually a good price.
* Honey / Capital One Shopping: Browser extensions that automatically find coupons and sometimes offer price comparison features.
* Become, PriceSpy, ShopMania, PriceGrabber: Other popular price comparison and product listing sites.
B. Unbiased & Expert Review Sites (Often with Lab Testing):
These organizations are known for their rigorous testing and independent analysis, making them highly reliable sources.
* Consumer Reports: A non-profit organization renowned for its unbiased, data-driven product testing and ratings across a huge range of categories (appliances, cars, electronics, health, etc.). They conduct their own lab tests.
* Wirecutter (The New York Times): Known for its thorough research and “best of” recommendations across many product categories. Their team extensively tests products.
* CNET: A go-to for electronics and technology reviews. They offer detailed expert reviews, comparisons, and often videos.
* TechRadar: Another excellent source for tech gear and electronics reviews, with in-depth analysis.
* PCMag: Specializes in technology, providing lab-tested, independent reviews of computers, components, mobile devices, software, and more.
* Good Housekeeping: Reviews household products, beauty products, electronics, and kid’s toys, often with testing done by The Good Housekeeping Institute.
* Which? (UK-based): An independent platform for reviewing a vast array of products and services, highly trusted in the UK.
C. User-Generated Review Platforms:
These platforms are primarily driven by customer feedback.
* Amazon: A treasure trove of customer reviews. Even if you don’t buy from Amazon, you can often find valuable insights into product pros, cons, and long-term durability. Pay attention to “verified purchase” badges.
* Trustpilot: Focuses on consumer trust and transparency, emphasizing verified reviews and ratings for businesses and products.
* Yelp: Best known for local businesses (restaurants, services), but you can find product-related reviews for some categories.
* Google Reviews (Google Business Profile): Businesses often have reviews on their Google Business Profile, which can give you insight into customer experiences with specific products or services.
* G2 & Capterra: Excellent for software and B2B products, offering detailed user reviews and comparisons.
* TripAdvisor: While primarily for travel and hospitality, it’s a great example of a platform relying heavily on user reviews.
D. Manufacturer/Retailer Websites:
* Direct from the brand: Many brand websites will have customer review sections. While generally positive, they can still offer insights into specific features or common questions.
* Retailer websites (Best Buy, Walmart, Target, etc.): Similar to Amazon, these sites usually have extensive customer review sections for the products they sell.
III. Tips for Effective Product Research:
* Define Your Needs: Before you start, clearly list what you need and want from the product. What are your essential features? What’s your budget?
* Start Broad, Then Narrow Down: Begin with general searches (e.g., “best noise-canceling headphones”) to get an overview of the market. Then, narrow down to specific models or brands.
* Read Both Expert and User Reviews: This is crucial. Expert reviews provide technical depth, while user reviews offer real-world practicality. Look for areas where they agree or disagree.
* Look for Consistency in Reviews: If many different users complain about the same issue, it’s likely a legitimate flaw. Conversely, if many highlight a particular strength, that’s also reliable.
* Consider the Source’s Bias: Be aware that some review sites might have affiliate links or partnerships that could subtly influence their recommendations. Independent non-profits like Consumer Reports are generally the most unbiased.
* Check Review Dates: Products are constantly updated. Ensure the reviews you’re reading are recent and relevant to the current model.
* Watch Video Reviews: YouTube is a fantastic resource for product reviews. You can see the product in action, get a sense of its size, and hear direct impressions.
* Compare Features Side-by-Side: Many product comparison websites (especially for electronics like phones) offer tables where you can directly compare specifications and features.
* Don’t Just Look at Star Ratings: Read the actual text of the reviews. A 4-star review with detailed explanations of minor flaws might be more helpful than a vague 5-star review.
* Factor in Price: Use price comparison tools to ensure you’re getting the best deal once you’ve decided on a product.
By using a combination of these resources and strategies, you’ll be well-equipped to make a confident and informed decision about your next purchase! What product are you thinking of researching first?
Watch for the ” Canadian Standards Group” Mark.
There are many laboratory groups of associations that test for numbers of things. One of them is a Canadian standards group that used to be called just a Canadian standards association and there are some other ones attached to it and one that might be of interest is UL or underwriters liability. When you see their marks, they mean something.
Good luck
Homer’s Home
We are the descendents of the Greek enlightenment…
Two can do more than twice the amount as one alone can do…
So, long as they are pulling in the same direction…
To maximize production through teamwork and division of labor, it’s essential to clearly define roles and responsibilities based on individual strengths and skills. Encourage open communication among team members to foster collaboration and problem-solving. Utilize project management tools to organize tasks effectively and monitor progress, ensuring that everyone stays aligned with project goals. Regularly review and adjust workflows to identify bottlenecks, allowing teams to optimize processes and improve efficiency. Additionally, promote a culture of trust and respect, which enhances motivation and accountability, ultimately leading to higher productivity levels.
Donald Trump has a Mercator personage, distortion is always his view. People would do well to appreciate that when formulating responses to his presentations.
Navigation in Mercator is better…
Allegory
Yes, I absolutely understand! You’re asking about the fascinating and often misleading nature of maps, specifically focusing on Greenland and the Mercator projection. Let’s create a “photo” (imagine this as a textual description since I can’t actually take a photo) of a map and discuss this.
Okay, imagine this as a simplified Mercator projection world map, zoomed in a bit to highlight Greenland.
North Pole (exaggerated size)
/ \
/ \
/ \
/————\ Arctic Circle
/ \
Europe & Asia —-/—————-\—- North America
/ \
/——————–\ **GREENLAND (appears HUGE)**
/ \
/————————\
/ \
/—————————-\
/ \
/——————————–\ Equator
/ \
/————————————\
/ \
/—————————————-\
/ \
/——————————————–\
/ \
————————————————– South …
… Continents (stretched near poles)
South Pole (exaggerated size)
In this Mercator Map “Photo”:
* Greenland looks enormous. It appears to be the same size as, or even larger than, the continent of Africa or South America. It dominates the top-left portion of the map.
* Shapes are generally preserved: Greenland roughly looks like Greenland.
* Distances are distorted: The distances between places, especially at higher latitudes, are stretched out horizontally.
Now, let’s talk about the “Mercator value” vs. “actual size” and the distortion in worldview:
Mercator Value (What the Map Shows):
* Purpose: The Mercator projection was created for navigation. It’s fantastic for sailors because straight lines on a Mercator map represent lines of constant compass bearing (rhumb lines or loxodromes). This is incredibly useful for plotting courses.
* How it works: To achieve this straight-line bearing property, the Mercator projection preserves angles and shapes locally. However, to do this, it drastically distorts areas, especially as you move away from the equator towards the poles.
* Greenland’s Mercator Value: On a Mercator map, Greenland is given a massive visual value. It looks incredibly important due to its apparent size. It can appear to visually dominate global discussions, resource maps, etc., simply because it takes up so much space on the map.
Actual Size (Reality):
* Greenland is indeed large… but not that large. Greenland is the world’s largest island, but its actual land area is about 2.166 million square kilometers (836,300 sq mi).
* Comparison to continents is key:
* Africa: Africa is about 14 times larger than Greenland in land area.
* South America: South America is about 8.5 times larger than Greenland.
* Even India: India is larger than Greenland.
Demonstrating Distortion in People’s Worldview:
This is where the real impact lies. The Mercator projection, while useful for navigation, has unintentionally and subtly shaped our perception of the world for centuries.
* Exaggerated Importance of High-Latitude Regions: Because Mercator inflates areas near the poles, regions like Greenland, Canada, Russia (Siberia), and Scandinavia appear much larger than they are in reality. This can lead to:
* Overemphasis on these regions in geopolitical thinking: Someone only looking at Mercator maps might overestimate the landmass and potential resources of these northern regions compared to equatorial and tropical areas.
* Eurocentrism: Historically, Mercator projection became popular in Europe. Because Europe is at a mid-latitude, its size distortion is less extreme than Greenland’s, but it still looks proportionally larger compared to regions near the equator. This projection has been argued to subtly reinforce a Eurocentric worldview, visually “placing” Europe and the West as larger and perhaps implicitly more “important” in the global picture.
* Underestimation of Equatorial and Tropical Regions: Conversely, areas near the equator like Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia are shrunk on a Mercator map compared to their true size. This can lead to:
* Underplaying the scale and significance of these regions: Someone might underestimate the vastness and importance of continents like Africa and South America simply because they visually appear smaller on common Mercator maps.
* Reinforcing existing biases: In colonial and post-colonial eras, this visual underrepresentation might have contributed to or reinforced existing biases about the relative importance and power of different parts of the world.
* Misconceptions about Global Issues: When discussing global issues like climate change, resource distribution, or population, if people are primarily visualizing a Mercator map, they might have a distorted sense of the scale and impact on different regions. For instance, the sheer size of Africa or the Amazon rainforest might be visually minimized, leading to a miscalculation of their global importance.
In Conclusion:
The Mercator projection is a powerful example of how map projections are not neutral representations of the world. They are tools created for specific purposes, and they inevitably involve distortions. While Mercator is excellent for navigation, it significantly distorts area, particularly at high latitudes.
By understanding this distortion, especially in the case of Greenland, we can become more critical consumers of maps and be aware of how map projections can subtly shape our worldview and potentially reinforce existing biases about global scale and importance.
It’s important to use different types of map projections (like equal-area projections) when the goal is to accurately represent area and compare the sizes of regions. This helps to correct the visual distortions of Mercator and provides a more accurate “picture” of the world’s geography.
Did this explanation and “photo” make sense? Let me know if you’d like to explore other map projections or distortions!
Dianne Francis, a view that resonates…
Dated interview from January 31st 2025…
This interview resonates to a fear based or responsible point.
” I bigger than you what are you going to give me ?”
Most relevant “Canadian Dollar”
Kevin Griffiths
percypaschal
The Proprietor Review 