All posts by b nice

Semper Doctrina—we are always improving and adapting.
The World

No, China does not operate the Panama Canal

No, China does not operate the Panama Canal. The canal is managed solely by the Panama Canal Authority (ACP), a Panamanian government agency, since its transfer from U.S. control on December 31, 1999.

Wikipedia

However, Chinese companies have a presence in the region. Notably, Hutchison Whampoa, a Hong Kong-based firm, operates ports at both the Atlantic and Pacific ends of the canal.

The Times & The Sunday Times

Despite this, the operation and administration of the canal remain under Panamanian authority.

Recent statements by U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting that China controls the canal have been met with firm denials from both Panama and China. Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino emphasized that the canal is part of the country’s “inalienable patrimony” and will continue to be managed responsibly by Panama.

Reuters

China has also stated that it does not interfere in Panama’s management of the canal.

Al Jazeera
Panama and China Respond to U.S. Claims on Canal Control
 
FaviconReuters
At UN, Panama reminds Trump he should not be threatening force
Yesterday
 
FaviconReuters
‘Be serious’, says Panama president on Trump ‘invasion’ question
Today
Useless Holidays

Handwriting Day

Handwriting Day is celebrated annually on January 23 to honor the art and importance of handwriting. The day was established by the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA) in 1977, intentionally choosing this date to commemorate the birthday of John Hancock, whose famously bold signature is a symbol of independence in the United States (as it appears prominently on the Declaration of Independence).

Purpose of Handwriting Day:

  1. Promote the Practice of Handwriting: In a digital age dominated by keyboards and touchscreens, the day serves as a reminder of the value of handwritten communication.
  2. Celebrate Individual Expression: Handwriting is unique to each person, almost like a fingerprint, reflecting individuality and personality.
  3. Encourage Creativity: Writing by hand can spark creative thinking and help with learning and memory retention.
  4. Highlight Cultural Significance: Handwriting has played an important role in human history, connecting generations and preserving stories.

Fun Ways to Celebrate:

  • Write a handwritten letter or note to someone you care about.
  • Practice calligraphy or try different handwriting styles.
  • Reflect on old journals or letters you’ve written.
  • Teach children about the importance of handwriting.
  • Share your handwriting on social media using hashtags like #HandwritingDay.

Do you still enjoy writing by hand, or is it all digital for you these days? 😊

Quiz

New Brunswick weather: then and now!

Here’s a quiz about New Brunswick weather: then and now! It explores historical weather patterns and recent trends. The quiz includes multiple-choice and true/false questions to make it engaging. Let me know if you’d like any adjustments!

New Brunswick Weather Quiz: Then and Now

1. Historical Climate

Question: What type of climate is New Brunswick known for historically?
a) Tropical
b) Maritime
c) Mediterranean
d) Arid

2. Winter Weather

Question: Which decade recorded the snowiest winter in New Brunswick’s history?
a) 1930s
b) 1970s
c) 1990s
d) 2010s

3. Temperature Trends

Question: Over the past century, the average temperature in New Brunswick has:
a) Increased by more than 2°C
b) Remained stable
c) Decreased by 1°C
d) Increased by less than 1°C

4. Extreme Weather Events

True or False: Hurricanes and tropical storms have become more frequent in New Brunswick in the past 20 years.

5. Record High Temperatures

Question: What is the highest temperature ever recorded in New Brunswick?
a) 35°C
b) 38°C
c) 40°C
d) 42°C

6. Ice Storms

Question: The infamous 1998 ice storm, which caused widespread power outages, affected New Brunswick and which other Canadian province the most?
a) Alberta
b) Quebec
c) Ontario
d) British Columbia

7. Rainfall Patterns

True or False: Annual rainfall in New Brunswick has increased significantly due to climate change.

8. Frost-Free Days

Question: Over recent decades, the average number of frost-free days in New Brunswick has:
a) Decreased
b) Stayed the same
c) Increased

9. Impact of Climate Change

Question: Which of the following is a significant effect of climate change observed in New Brunswick?
a) Shorter winters
b) Rising sea levels
c) Increased flooding
d) All of the above

10. Coastal Erosion

True or False: Coastal erosion has accelerated in New Brunswick due to rising sea levels and stronger storms.

Answers

1. Historical Climate

Answer: b) Maritime
New Brunswick has a humid continental climate with maritime influences, leading to distinct seasons.

2. Winter Weather

Answer: c) 1990s
The 1990s included some of the snowiest winters on record for New Brunswick, with heavy snowfall impacting the province.

3. Temperature Trends

Answer: a) Increased by more than 2°C
Over the past century, New Brunswick has seen a noticeable warming trend due to global climate change.

4. Extreme Weather Events

Answer: True
Hurricanes and tropical storms have become more frequent, with storms like Hurricane Dorian in 2019 causing significant damage.

5. Record High Temperatures

Answer: b) 38°C
The highest temperature recorded in New Brunswick is approximately 38°C (recorded in Nepisiguit Falls in 1935).

6. Ice Storms

Answer: b) Quebec
The 1998 ice storm severely impacted New Brunswick and Quebec, causing massive power outages and infrastructure damage.

7. Rainfall Patterns

Answer: True
Annual rainfall has increased in New Brunswick due to climate change, which intensifies the water cycle.

8. Frost-Free Days

Answer: c) Increased
The number of frost-free days has risen in New Brunswick, reflecting a trend toward longer growing seasons.

9. Impact of Climate Change

Answer: d) All of the above
Climate change in New Brunswick has led to shorter winters, rising sea levels, and more frequent flooding.

10. Coastal Erosion

Answer: True
Coastal erosion has accelerated as rising sea levels and stronger storms impact the province’s coastline.

Fun Holidays

Hot Sauce Day

Hot Sauce Day is celebrated annually on January 22, and it’s a spicy day dedicated to appreciating all things hot sauce! It’s a time for hot sauce enthusiasts to experiment with different flavors, explore new brands, and embrace the heat in their favorite dishes.

Some fun ways to celebrate Hot Sauce Day include:

  • Taste Testing: Try a variety of hot sauces, from mild to extra hot.
  • Cooking with Spice: Add hot sauce to your favorite recipes, like wings, tacos, or even cocktails.
  • DIY Hot Sauce: Create your own custom blend of spices and peppers.
  • Challenge Friends: Host a hot sauce challenge to see who can handle the heat.