Monthly Archives: October 2014

The First Nations people of Canada and the government always had ongoing conflicts for centuries and similar issues still appear to this day. BC Hydro proposed a plan to build a dam and a 1,100-megawatt hydroelectric generating at the Peace River in northeastern BC. The Peace River Valley neighbours Fort St. John and the approval of this proposal would mean that farmland and wildlife habitat would be flooded or destroyed. It would also affect the daily lives of the Aboriginals that included fishing, hunting, and traditional ceremonies.

Although there are two sides of the story to consider, the government/BC Hydro and the First Nations, it’s crucial to come to a compromise. Although their history on compromise hasn’t been the most substantial and it has always been the government overruling the First Nations, the Peace River Valley is home to many First Nations and they do have the right to voice their opinion.

Without the support of the First Nations people, this could hinder the development of the dam and progress of BC Hydro. Applying the PEST analysis, this would have both economical and political effects. Economically, this would open many job opportunities for residents in the neighbouring areas along with increasing production of oil, gas, and mining industries. This issue will also stretch the government, one side in support of  BC Hydro and one side in support of the First Nations. Applying the SWOT analysis, this would also affect the threats of BC Hydro as they may not be able to compromise to reach their target.

Will they be able to meet halfway and come to a conclusion, or will the government and the First Nations continue to have ongoing conflicts?

Calling all ice cream fanatics! There’s a new shop in town and it looks like they’re here to stay and expanding. Earnest Ice Cream is Vancouver’s very own ice cream utopia founded by Ben Ernst and Erica Bernardi. But what are their points of difference that set them apart from their numerous competitors?

Unlike other ice cream shops, Earnest Ice Cream emphasizes on their passion for sustainability and the usage of natural ingredients in their products. Yes, they even have vegan flavours! Their unique packaging includes their one-of-a-kind reusable mason jars, biodegradable paper bags, and spoons. They also have flavours that you wouldn’t normally see in other shops including london fog, strawberry basil, cardamom, and many more.

After trying their ice cream myself, I instantly became a fan. Aside from their indulging products, I strongly appreciate their zero-waste mandate and the uniqueness they bring to their company. In the previous comm101 tutorial, Mahesh went over risks in business and in this case, the founders took a large leap in creating such bold flavors and marketing schemes. Ice cream in mason jars is so simple yet creative. Who would have thought rhubarb ice cream would be so delicious?

Earnest Ice Cream is a perfect example of incorporating passion into an innovation to make it your very own and unique.