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Car show,30th annual, show and Shine, Merritt BC.

Filed under: -Photography, Sports and Leisure by Kevin Griffiths — Leave a comment
July 27, 2025

July 27th 2025, Central Park till 3:00 p.m..

The Nicola Valley Cruisers are a vibrant car club based in Merritt, British Columbia, known for their passion for classic, vintage, and modern vehicles. While the specific number of 302 members isn’t consistently stated, it’s clear they have a significant and active membership that participates in various events throughout the year.
Here’s a breakdown of what they do and how they enjoy their leisure time:
Key Activities and Events:
* Annual Show ‘n’ Shine: This is their signature event, a beloved summer car show held annually in Central Park, Merritt. It draws car enthusiasts from across British Columbia and beyond. It features a diverse array of vehicles, from muscle cars and vintage classics to modern sports cars, trucks, and even electric bikes. The event is free for the public and includes live entertainment, food vendors, prizes, and a festive atmosphere. It’s a major community event and a highlight of their year. In 2025, the 30th annual Show ‘n’ Shine is scheduled for Sunday, July 27th.
* Weekly Meetings/Cruises: The club holds regular weekly meetings, often at local spots like the A&W on Voght Street. These gatherings allow members to showcase their cars, socialize, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. They sometimes include activities like garage tours.
* Spring Dance/Rock ‘n’ Roll Dance: The Nicola Valley Cruisers also host social events like their annual Spring Dance. These events often feature live music (like the Coquihalla Coyotes) and are an opportunity for members and the community to enjoy a night of retro tunes and camaraderie.
* Community Involvement and Charity: The club is actively involved in giving back to the community. They often donate funds raised from their events to local groups or causes, such as the local Food Bank or the Nicola Valley Fall Fair.
* Participation in Other Automotive Events: Members also participate in other car-related events, sometimes joining tours of antique or classic car clubs visiting Merritt.
How They Enjoy Their Leisure Time:
For the Nicola Valley Cruisers, leisure time largely revolves around their shared love for automobiles. This includes:
* Showcasing and Maintaining Their Vehicles: Members take pride in their cars, whether they are meticulously restored classics or unique modern vehicles. A significant part of their leisure involves maintaining, customizing, and preparing their cars for display.
* Socializing and Camaraderie: The club fosters a strong sense of community. Members enjoy spending time together, sharing stories, discussing cars, and building friendships with like-minded individuals.
* “Cruisin'”: As their name suggests, simply “cruising” with their cars, enjoying the open road and the scenery of the Nicola Valley, is a popular pastime.
* Attending and Organizing Events: The various events they host and participate in provide opportunities for entertainment, competition (friendly car show judging), and sharing their passion with a wider audience.
* Nostalgia and Preservation: For many, the car hobby is about preserving a piece of history or reliving memories associated with cars from their youth.
In essence, the Nicola Valley Cruisers are more than just a car club; they are a community that celebrates automotive heritage, enjoys social connections, and contributes to the vibrant atmosphere of Merritt, British Columbia.

Welcome

Nicola Valley Cruisers, July 2025
Typical car show 🙀
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Water in Alberta for this craft.

Filed under: Flora, Social Activism, Sports and Leisure by Kevin Griffiths — Leave a comment
July 26, 2025

There are issues about transporting weeds and other contaminates  check with local authorities before trouble brews.

Canoe “I just deliver them-driver.”

Big Canoe

Regulated

One personal floatation device for every person required. Read on….

The regulations for canoeing in Alberta are primarily governed by Transport Canada’s Small Vessel Regulations, as boating safety is a federal responsibility in Canada. Alberta also has specific regulations regarding aquatic invasive species.
Here’s a breakdown of what canoes need in Alberta:
Flotation Devices (Life Jackets/PFDs)
* One life jacket or Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for each person on board. This is a non-negotiable requirement for all watercraft, including human-powered ones like canoes.
* Canadian-approved: The life jacket or PFD must be Canadian-approved. There are three main types:
   * SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) lifejackets: High-performance, approved for all vessels, turn you on your back even if unconscious.
   * Standard Type lifejackets: Approved for all vessels except SOLAS, also turn you on your back even if unconscious.
   * Small Vessel lifejackets: Approved for small vessels.
* Proper Fit: It’s crucial that the life jacket or PFD fits snugly and correctly. For children, it should not ride up over their chin or ears, and there should be less than 7.6 cm (3 inches) between their shoulders and the device.
* Condition: Ripped or poorly conditioned flotation devices are not considered approved.
* Inflatable PFDs: Inflatable PFDs are prohibited for people under 16 years of age or who weigh under 36.3 kg (80 lbs.), and for operators of personal watercraft.
Paddle Equipment and Other Required Safety Gear

Measure your boat for the activity requirements.


For canoes up to 6 meters (19’8″) in length, you generally need the following, in addition to life jackets/PFDs:
* Buoyant Heaving Line: A buoyant heaving line at least 15 meters (50 feet) long.
* Bailing Device: A bailer or a manual bilge pump. (Note: Not required for craft with watertight compartments that won’t allow the craft to hold enough water to capsize).
* Sound Signalling Device: A sound signalling device (like a pea-less whistle for human-powered craft).
* Reboarding Device (if applicable): A reboarding device (like a ladder) is required unless the vertical height to climb to reboard the pleasure craft is not more than 0.5 meters.
* Navigation Lights (if applicable): If you are operating after sunset and before sunrise or in periods of restricted visibility, you need navigation lights. For a canoe, a single light (like a watertight flashlight, lantern, or torch) is sufficient.
Additional Recommendations and Important Considerations
* Spare Paddle: It’s always recommended to have one paddle per person in the canoe plus a spare.
* Watertight Flashlight: While sometimes covered by navigation light requirements, a watertight flashlight is always a good idea, especially for low-light conditions.
* First Aid Kit: Although not explicitly listed as mandatory for all canoes by Transport Canada, it’s highly recommended to carry a first aid kit. For guided excursions, specific first aid kit requirements apply.
* Helmet: For river paddling, especially on Class 3 or above waters (whitewater), a helmet of an appropriate size is required. Paddle Canada also requires helmets on all Class II and above waterways for sanctioned courses and participants.
* Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Regulations: Alberta has strict regulations to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, such as zebra and quagga mussels.
   * Drain Plugs: All watercraft must have their drain plugs pulled while being transported on Alberta highways. Failure to do so can result in a significant fine.
   * Watercraft Inspections: When highway signage indicates a watercraft inspection station is open, all watercraft (motorized and non-motorized) being transported must stop for inspection. Bypassing an open station with a watercraft is a serious violation.
   * Clean, Drain, Dry, and Certify: Before entering a new waterbody, you are required to clean, drain, and dry your watercraft and all water-related gear. In some areas, like Banff National Park, you may need to obtain an AIS prevention self-certification permit.
* No “Boating License” for Canoes (unmotorized): You do not need a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (often referred to as a “boating license”) to operate a human-powered craft like a canoe, unless it is fitted with a motor (even an electric trolling motor).
* Alcohol Consumption: Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a criminal offense. Alcohol consumption is generally restricted on board unless the boat has a sleeping area, cooking facilities, or a toilet, or is docked.
It’s always a good idea to consult the Transport Canada Safe Boating Guide and the Alberta.ca website for the most current and detailed information on regulations. These resources provide comprehensive lists and explanations of safety equipment and rules.

CTV on drowning

The above may not be full and complete please review the regulations with the regulator responsible in the jurisdiction.

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TGIF-Implosion…

Filed under: Tourists by Kevin Griffiths — Leave a comment
July 25, 2025

Mercy in swiftness…

Deep six coming
Sub
Emails come home…
What’s that bang?

Record

Wikipedia

Obituary of fools

So, waivers were signed, rhetoric  heard, dismissal embraced, discounts accepted.

  Five lives wasted, no, one way is to keep the experience alive by acknowledging this piece and being prudent because of it. KDG

Jurisdictions evaded.

Grief taken as a poison 💊

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Mysterious flute 🎵

Filed under: Music by Kevin Griffiths — Leave a comment
July 24, 2025
Walk in the woods

So,

Call of the loss of youth.

Calling calling calling to you.
Rhythm that syncs to foot and bowed head.

Why must I cry over lost thoughts of our bliss.
How did time interview and make a cloud of your smile.
 From a glenn of grenn with purple trim oh so grim.
  GONE IS THE CHANCE TO REFRESH MY BEAU.
     NOT EVEN FROM THAT IMPS BENT BOW.
 So I am struck with the thought that it is rot. 
Never again to have such luck as to be in sync with you in thought.
K.
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Flash Flood,2021, just going behind us…

Filed under: Public safety, Vegtable soup by Kevin Griffiths — Leave a comment
July 23, 2025

Recent Texas flooding brings memory to the forefront.

It’s been a while on Flood and COVID , and mill closure and we are still here.

Flash floods are among the deadliest natural hazards worldwide, responsible for a significant number of deaths and substantial economic losses. Their sudden onset leaves very little time for warnings, making them particularly dangerous. Climate change, rapid urbanization, and land-use changes are contributing to an increase in their frequency and intensity.
Here’s a breakdown of flash flood statistics:
Global Statistics (relevant to developing world)
* Fatalities: Flash floods cause over 5,000 deaths annually worldwide and account for 85% of all flood-related fatalities.
* Economic Losses: They result in economic losses exceeding $50 billion annually.
* Mortality Rate: Flash floods have the highest mortality rate among different classes of flooding (e.g., riverine, coastal).
* Developing World Impact: In tropical countries, as high as 90% of deaths from flash floods are due to drowning from rapidly rising waters. Developing countries often have limited infrastructure and early warning systems, making their populations more vulnerable.
* Examples:
   * In 2022, flash floods in Pakistan killed over 1,700 people and displaced millions.
   * When Hurricane Mitch struck Central America in 1998, it caused over 11,000 casualties and destroyed hundreds of thousands of homes due to flash floods, floods, landslides, and mudslides.
   * From 1990 to 2022, floods recorded in 168 countries affected over 3.2 billion people, caused 218,353 deaths, and resulted in over $1.3 trillion in economic losses.
     * China was the most affected country in terms of population (1.9 billion) and economic damage ($442 billion), and the second largest in deaths (30,890).
     * India had the second largest population affected (629 million) and the largest number of deaths (46,506).
United States
* Fatalities: Flooding has caused an average of more than 125 deaths per year in the United States over the past few decades, with flash floods being the nation’s top storm-related killer.
* Recent Events:
   * In July 2025, devastating flash floods across the Hill Country in central Texas left a staggering trail of destruction and claimed at least 120 lives (as of July 9, 2025), with many more unaccounted for.
   * Hurricane Helene (September 2024) caused about 250 deaths, many due to massive inland flooding.
   * Eastern Kentucky floods in 2022 led to 45 deaths.
   * Hurricane Harvey (2017) caused over 300,000 structures to be damaged and an estimated $125 billion in damage, with nearly all deaths attributed to freshwater flooding.
* Overall Disasters (1980-2024): The U.S. has experienced 403 billion-dollar weather and climate disasters, claiming nearly 17,000 lives and resulting in more than $2.9 trillion in direct costs. The frequency and cost of these disasters have increased dramatically.
   * The average number of billion-dollar disasters per year has grown from about three in the 1980s to 19 in the last 10 years.
   * 2023 and 2024 shattered previous records with 28 and 27 billion-dollar disasters, respectively.
* Circumstance of Fatalities: 63% of flood-related fatalities are associated with vehicles.
Canada
* Costliest Natural Disaster: Flooding is the costliest natural disaster for Canadians.
* Frequency: Floods occur five times as often as wildfires in Canada. Between 1900 and 2005, there were 241 flood disasters. Statistics show the number of floods has almost tripled from the 1960s to the 1970s and continues to rise.
* Recent Events:
   * In July 2024, torrential rain and flash floods in Toronto and southern Ontario caused over $940 million in insured damage.
   * The 2024 year is already the costliest in terms of catastrophic weather-related insurance payouts, surpassing the 2016 Fort McMurray wildfire, with one life lost during the four largest weather catastrophes (wildfires, hail, floods) in the summer of 2024.
   * The 2013 Alberta floods are considered the costliest natural disaster in Canada’s history.
* Historical Fatalities:
   * Hurricane Hazel in October 1954 caused flooding in Toronto, resulting in more than 80 deaths and severe damage.
   * The 2021 British Columbia floods, a once-in-500-year event, swallowed highways, washed away bridges, cut off railroads, and led to at least four deaths.
   * In 1950, the Winnipeg flood affected one-sixth of the city, evacuating over 100,000 people and costing about $126 million (adjusted for 2020), damaging 10,500 homes.
These statistics highlight the escalating threat of flash floods globally and regionally, emphasizing the urgent need for improved early warning systems, resilient infrastructure, and adaptation strategies in the face of a changing climate.

Skies are friends and foe.

May the recent flash flood in Texas be seen as a going forward opportunity rather than catastrophic loss doing no one some good.

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Never swim alone…

Filed under: Emergency readiness, Sports and Leisure, Vegtable soup by Kevin Griffiths — Leave a comment
July 22, 2025
Water safety

When engaging in water activities, especially swimming, prioritizing safety is paramount. One of the most critical aspects of water safety is the “buddy system” – always swimming with another person.
Here’s a breakdown of why this is so important and other key water safety tips:
The Importance of the Buddy System
* Immediate Assistance: In an emergency, such as a cramp, exhaustion, or a sudden medical issue, a buddy can provide immediate help. This could mean pulling you to safety, calling for help, or performing CPR if they are trained. Even a few seconds can make a significant difference in a water emergency.
* Accountability: Knowing someone is watching out for you and vice-versa adds a layer of accountability. You’re less likely to take unnecessary risks when someone else’s safety is also a consideration.
* Reduced Panic: If you get into trouble, the presence of a calm and capable buddy can help reduce panic, which is often a major factor in drowning incidents.
* No One is Immune: Even strong swimmers can get into trouble. Unexpected currents, hidden obstacles, or sudden health issues can affect anyone.
* Supervision for Children: For children, the buddy system extends to constant, active adult supervision. A child should never be left unsupervised near water, even for a moment.
General Water Safety Tips:
* Learn to Swim: This is the most fundamental water safety skill. Enroll in swimming lessons if you don’t know how to swim or want to improve your skills.
* Choose Supervised Locations: Whenever possible, swim in areas with lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained professionals who can respond quickly to emergencies.
* Know Your Limits: Don’t overestimate your swimming ability. If you’re tired or unsure, get out of the water. Avoid swimming long distances in open water if you’re not properly trained.
* Check Water Conditions: Be aware of currents, tides, water depth, and potential hazards like rocks, weeds, or marine life. Look for signs indicating dangerous conditions.
* Never Dive into Unknown Depths: Always check the depth of the water before diving in. Many serious injuries occur from diving into shallow water or striking hidden objects.
* Avoid Alcohol and Drugs: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time, significantly increasing the risk of accidents in and around water.
* Wear a Life Jacket: If you are participating in boating activities, or are a weak swimmer in open water, always wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved (or equivalent national standard) life jacket.
* Sun Protection: While not directly related to drowning, prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to sunburn and heatstroke, which can impair your ability to react in an emergency.
* Enter Feet First: When entering unfamiliar water, go in feet first to avoid surprises.
* Emergency Preparedness:
   * Know how to call for help.
   * If you see someone in trouble, don’t just jump in unless you are trained in water rescue. “Reach or throw, don’t go.” Extend a rescue device (like a pole, rope, or life preserver) to the person.
   * Learn CPR and basic first aid.
By following these guidelines, especially the crucial buddy system, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with water activities and ensure a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone.

Water safety is everyone’s concern.

A little training could make a difference.
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Two alerts for Merritt, severe weather thunderstorms, Coquihalla Hyway and coq to Kelowna…

Filed under: Environment canada, Vegtable soup, weather by Kevin Griffiths — Leave a comment
July 21, 2025
Weather BC Environment Canada

Be safe you’re in control…

One thought, make it home to…

Myth Carl Sagan
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Black swift a federal case

Filed under: Fauna, kootennays national Park by Kevin Griffiths — Leave a comment

Federal Protection

The black Swift is under Federal protection.

Swifts

The Black Swift (Cypseloides niger) is a fascinating and somewhat mysterious bird, particularly in its Canadian range.
Range in British Columbia, Canada
The Black Swift’s breeding range in Canada is primarily restricted to southern British Columbia and southwestern Alberta. In BC, they are distributed from the southern portion of the province, including Vancouver Island, north to Prince George and Hazelton in the upper Skeena Valley. They are common throughout Vancouver Island, though not yet reported from the Queen Charlotte Islands.
Despite their large range extent in BC, their numbers have declined significantly, with at least 50% experienced over the last three generations.
Favorite Nesting Areas
Black Swifts are known for their highly specialized nesting habits. They prefer to nest in inaccessible, high cliff faces, often behind or near waterfalls and in sea caves. These locations provide them with cool temperatures, shade, and high humidity, while also protecting their nests from terrestrial predators.
Key characteristics of their preferred nesting sites include:
* Near waterfalls or sea caves: The spray from waterfalls helps maintain a cool and moist environment.
* Dark and inaccessible ledges: They choose niches that remain cool, moist, and dark all day, hidden from light and predators.
* Moss available for nesting material: Their nests are typically made of twigs and moss glued together with mud. They will also use ferns and seaweed if available.
* Unobstructed aerial access: They need clear flyways immediately in front of the nests.
* High relief: Nests are often in a commanding position above the surrounding terrain, allowing birds to fly out horizontally and directly reach feeding altitudes.
Some known nesting sites in British Columbia are found in national parks like Kootenay National Park (Marble Canyon has the largest known population in the mountain national parks) and potentially in Yoho National Park (e.g., Hamilton Falls, Laughing Falls, Twin Falls).
Test for a Nest
Black Swift nests are notoriously difficult to locate due to their remote and often hidden locations. However, a nest can be identified by:
* Its location: On a cliff face, often behind a waterfall or in a sea cave, in a cool, moist, and dark niche.
* Construction: A cup-shaped nest made of twigs and moss, possibly with mud, ferns, or seaweed.
* Single egg: Black Swifts lay only one egg per breeding season.
* Behavior of adults: Adults will return to the nest at dusk to feed their nestling. Surveys for Black Swifts are often conducted in the two hours before sunset until dark, as this is when they return to their roosting and nesting sites.
Federally Protected?
Yes, the Black Swift is federally protected in Canada.
* It was assessed as Endangered by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) in 2015.
* In 2019, the species became federally protected under the Species at Risk Act (SARA).
* It is also protected under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, 1994.
* Within national parks, it is additionally protected under the National Parks Act.
It is illegal to disturb Black Swifts and their occupied or unoccupied nests, with significant penalties for violators.
How Long Can a Black Swift Fly Without Coming Down?
While there’s a related common swift that holds the record for continuous flight (up to 10 months), information specific to how long a Black Swift can fly without coming down isn’t as readily available or definitively documented.
However, like other swifts, Black Swifts are highly aerial birds. They spend most of their time in the air, foraging for insects on the wing, and only land at their nest site or roost. They are known to fly with steady and shallow wingbeats, covering vast distances during migration. While they may not have the documented 10-month flight record of their European common swift cousins, they are certainly built for prolonged periods in the air.

Nesting needs clear access to flight for the Swift.
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Earth worms.

Filed under: Fauna, Flora by Kevin Griffiths — Leave a comment
July 20, 2025

Benefits 😜

Earthworms are incredibly beneficial for our environment, gardens, and lawns. They are often called “nature’s engineers” due to their significant impact on soil health. Here’s a breakdown of the many advantages they offer:For Soil Health and Fertility: * Nutrient Cycling and Fertilization: Earthworms consume dead organic matter like leaves, grass clippings, and plant debris. As this material passes through their digestive system, it breaks down and becomes highly concentrated with essential nutrients (like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) in their excretions, known as “castings” or “worm poop.” These castings are a natural, nutrient-rich fertilizer readily available for plants. * Organic Matter Decomposition: By ingesting and breaking down organic matter, earthworms accelerate its decomposition, preventing the buildup of thatch in lawns and making nutrients locked within these materials available for plants. * Increased Microbial Activity: Earthworms foster a thriving microbial community in the soil. Their digestive systems introduce beneficial microorganisms into the soil, which are crucial for nutrient cycling and overall soil biological activity. * Improved Soil Structure and Aggregation: As earthworms burrow, they create tunnels that loosen and aerate the soil. This prevents soil compaction and creates a more porous structure. Their castings also help to bind soil particles together, forming stable aggregates that improve soil tilth and stability.For Water Management: * Enhanced Water Infiltration and Drainage: The tunnels created by earthworms act as channels, allowing water to penetrate the soil more easily and deeply. This significantly improves drainage, reducing waterlogging and runoff, which in turn helps prevent erosion and flooding. Soils with earthworms can drain up to 10 times faster than those without. * Improved Water Retention: The improved soil structure with better aggregation allows the soil to hold onto moisture more effectively, making water more accessible to plant roots.For Plant Growth: * Deeper Root Penetration: The tunnels created by earthworms provide pathways for plant roots to grow deeper into the soil, allowing them to access more water and nutrients. * Increased Plant Productivity: By enhancing nutrient availability, water infiltration, and soil structure, earthworms directly contribute to healthier and more robust plant growth. Studies have even shown that earthworms can contribute significantly to global grain and legume production.Other Environmental Benefits: * Bioremediation: Earthworms can help clean up contaminated land by spreading microorganisms that break down environmental pollutants into non-toxic molecules. * Food Source: Earthworms are a vital part of the food web, serving as a food source for many animals, including birds and small mammals. * Indicators of Soil Health: A healthy population of earthworms in your soil is often a good indicator of overall soil health, as they thrive in moist, organic-rich environments.In summary, earthworms are indispensable allies in maintaining healthy, fertile soil. Their presence in our gardens, lawns, and natural environments is a strong indicator of a thriving ecosystem, contributing to robust plant growth, efficient water management, and natural nutrient cycling.

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August 26th, Earth: 23rd anniversary of summit…

Filed under: Environment canada, Journalism, Social Activism, Vegtable soup by Kevin Griffiths — Leave a comment
July 19, 2025

On this Day: August 26th 2002

The Earth summit 2002 begins in Johannesburg South Africa.

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TGIF- mid summer 🌞

Filed under: Cars, Play, Recreational Vehicles by Kevin Griffiths — Leave a comment
July 18, 2025

Jazzy day wakey day.

Sweet songs of ⛱️

Heat is good for you…
The good old summer time
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Asteroid moved, Dart mission results…  Moon and Mars in conjunction Near months end…

Filed under: Sky scapes by Kevin Griffiths — Leave a comment
July 17, 2025
Conjunction

There is little air blast in Space.

According to NASA

The Dart mission only used a spacecraft to hit an asteroid and the results according to NASA are that the bump moved the course of the test target was changed.

There is little atmosphere in space and is generally referred to as a vacuum. We are used to seeing the results of explosives as they work on air blasts with destructive force. This may mean that atomic weapons would be muted as an asteroid breaker but it’s very hopeful to have the ability to intercept them.

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