Why Chad Michael Murray Has Six-Pack Abs: To Keep His ‘Pretty Wife Happy’Dow wanted to expand its Path2Zero zero-emission project from outside Fort Saskatchewan with a significant investment, but didn’t think the province’s depreciation rates were suitable. No problem: the rates were changed by the province – in seven days. The international pulp and paper behemoth, Mondi, wanted to promptly get environmental permits to move into the province. No problem: the permits came from the province in a speedy 90 days. The problem was: the province was Alberta, not British Columbia. And a bigger problem looms: Alberta is more aggressively big-game-hunting for investment now in Vancouver. It has opened an office here of the prodigious Crown corporation, Invest Alberta, and hired what it calls an “investment attraction advisor” – Brock Lalla, a former economist with PwC’s Canadian economic and policy practice. Based on its history of less than a half-decade, it would not be surprising to see some serious migration and expansion of B.C. businesses into our neighbouring province. In four years, Invest Alberta has attracted $24.9 billion in investment from around the world, counting for 33,481 jobs. Its CEO is himself a Vancouver expat appointed in 2021, Rick Christiaanse, and in keeping with the red-tape-averse culture, he reports directly to Premier Danielle Smith and not into the province’s bureaucracy. It is old news now that Alberta can put to shame most anything British Columbia might try to make for a better business and worker climate. Corporate taxes and housing prices are lower, salaries are higher, regulations are changed faster, construction permits are swifter. Little wonder an Angus Reid Institute poll earlier this year indicated more one-third of British Columbians – and half of all young people – were seriously considering leaving because of housing unaffordability. But housing costs are simply a symptom of a wider ailment, some of it tangible and some of it attitudinal. “Alberta’s claim to fame is that it can get things done,” Christiaanse told me. “We were in the wilderness for 10 years. We got desperate enough here that we had to figure out how to do this.” What it does is court investment, offering a concierge-like tailored suite of services to smooth the entry into the market – navigational assistance to streamline setup, marketing intelligence, networking leads, after-care services – in using its 17 offices worldwide to scout and secure significant investment. What it doesn’t do, though, might surprise you: It won’t write any cheques when business comes calling. It refuses to engage in the race to the bottom that many American cities and states will. “Our cheque-writing capacity is zero,” he says. “If you’re looking for a subsidy, that’s not our province.” Christiaanse, whose career includes stints as chief operating officer of the Skidmore Group and senior director of sales and marketing for Telus International, has been campaigning of late to demonstrate Alberta is not simply an oil and gas province. The province leads Canada in renewable energy growth. Amazon is building its first Canadian wind farm in southern Alberta; it already owns a solar project in the province, one of the largest in North America. Edmonton alone has four $1-billion-plus hydrogen energy plants under construction. Japanese firms Sumitomo and Itochu have extensive climate-change mitigation projects there. It is Alberta’s access to abundant energy, though, that often clinches the deal. “B.C. can’t build any more dams,” he notes. Mainly, he says though, business is saying: “I want stability.” The BC NDP government has its hands full at the moment, with a large and expanding deficit, declining per capita GDP, expensive health-care challenges, a CleanBC plan that will be costly across the province’s economy and relatively little business savvy at the helm. Even former NDP premier Glen Clark chided the Eby government to focus more on wealth creation than wealth redistribution. Christiaanse defines the challenge little differently than Clark: “We see the role as building prosperity.” What the world is saying when it takes its investment elsewhere are three things, he notes: “Bring me food security. Bring me energy security. And lately, bring me cybersecurity.” He plays down any B.C.-Alberta rivalry. “We need to be aligned,” he says. But he also notes that Alberta “had to hit rock bottom” before it initiated the changes it now offers investors as a calling card, without specifically suggesting that’s where B.C. now finds itself. “Vancouver is an incredible place to live,” he says. “But if you’re looking to take your business to a new level . . .” Kirk LaPointe is a Glacier Media columnist with an extensive background in journalism.
According to recent studies, the prevalence of hypertension among individuals aged 45 and above has reached nearly 60%. This alarming statistic highlights the growing burden of high blood pressure as a major public health issue, especially among middle-aged and older adults. Furthermore, it has been reported that over half of all cases of stroke are directly related to hypertension, underscoring the urgent need for effective prevention and management strategies.The Assad family, which has ruled Syria for 53 years, saw their regime crumble in a mere 12 days. The swift downfall of their power was attributed to the loss of popular support, as the people had turned against them. The key factor behind this collapse was the complete erosion of the regime's legitimacy in the eyes of the Syrian populace.
Wisconsin faces its first losing season in 23 years and the end of a bowl streak when the Badgers host arch-rival Minnesota on Friday in the annual Big Ten battle for Paul Bunyan's Axe. Minnesota (6-5, 4-4) lost to No. 4 Penn State 26-25. Wisconsin (5-6, 3-5 Big Ten) lost its fourth straight, 44-25, at Nebraska in a game that was not as close as the score. "Well 1890 is the first time we played this football team coming up and this is what it's all about," Minnesota coach P.J. Fleck said of the rivalry. "And you wouldn't want to have it any other way, being able to end the season with one of your biggest rivals. I know our guys will be ready to go, ready to play." Wisconsin has 22 consecutive winning seasons since going 5-7 under Barry Alvarez in 2001, the longest active streak among Power 4 teams. The Badgers also have played in a bowl game in each of the last 22 seasons, the longest active streak in the Big Ten and third-longest in FBS. Wisconsin coach Luke Fickell is more concerned with the rivalry game than the winning season and bowl streaks. "I'm not downplaying it, I'm not saying it's not important, I'm not saying it's another thing that's on our plate," Fickell said Monday. "But when it gets down to this last week, it's about one thing, it's about the rivalry. It's about preparing to play in the most important game of the year." The Gophers have dropped their last two games after winning four in a row. Minnesota averages 26.6 points per game, while allowing 18.5, 15th-best in the country. Max Brosmer has completed 67 percent of his passes for 221 per game with 15 touchdowns and five interceptions. Daniel Jackson is the top target with 69 catches for 802 yards and three scores, and Darius Taylor is the top rusher with 730 yards at 4.8 per carry with nine touchdowns. One week after leading Oregon after three quarters, the Wisconsin defense was shredded for 473 yards and five touchdowns by Nebraska. Braedyn Locke, who took over at quarterback when Tyler Van Dyke suffered an early season-ending knee injury, has thrown at least one interception in eight consecutive games. Locke has completed 56.4 percent of his passes for 180.6 yards per game, with 12 touchdowns and 10 picks. Tawee Walker is the leading rusher with 828 yards at 4.7 per carry with 10 touchdowns. He has failed to reach 60 yards in three of the last four games. Former Wisconsin and NFL standout JJ Watt posted on social media his assessment - and frustration - with the Badgers after the Nebraska game. "Losing happens, it's part of the game. Hearing announcers talk about how much tougher and more physical Nebraska & Iowa are while getting blown out ... that's the issue," Watt wrote on X. "We are Wisconsin. Physicality, running game, great O-Line and great defense. That is our identity." Wisconsin defeated the Gophers 28-14 last after Minnesota had won the previous two meetings. The Badgers have won 7 of the last 10 and lead the storied series 63-62-8. --Field Level MediaRecently, the news of a former employee of the popular Chinese beverage company Wahaha being fined 800,000 for trademark infringement and false advertising has sparked controversy and concern among consumers. The individual in question, who goes by the pseudonym Zong Ze, was found guilty of using the Wahaha trademark without authorization and engaging in deceptive marketing practices that misled consumers.Ottawa settles Phoenix pay system lawsuit with non-union employees
The news of Xiaomi's foray into the electric vehicle market with the YU7 has generated considerable excitement and anticipation among consumers and industry experts alike. With the success of its first electric car model, the Mi alpha, Xiaomi has demonstrated its capability to innovate and compete in the rapidly evolving automotive industry.In conclusion, the Israeli airstrikes in Syria last night have ushered in a new chapter in the ongoing conflict, raising the stakes and risks for all parties involved. The international community must act swiftly and decisively to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control and mitigate the potential consequences of further escalation. Only through dialogue, cooperation, and a commitment to peace can the cycle of violence and instability in Syria be broken, and a brighter future for the Syrian people secured.The young singer, whose name has been withheld for privacy reasons, reportedly visited a spa in Bangkok for a routine massage session. However, soon after the massage began, she experienced extreme pain and discomfort in her neck and back. Despite her complaints, the masseuse continued the treatment, which ultimately led to the singer collapsing and becoming paralyzed.
So mark your calendars and stay tuned for New Year's Day, when D Corporation will share the heartwarming story of a new couple who have found love and happiness through their platform. Love is in the air, and the world can't wait to celebrate the newest addition to the growing list of successful matches made possible by D Corporation.
Oaxaca de Juárez, México, Nov. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dickey's Barbecue Pit , the world's largest barbecue concept, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its first location in Oaxaca de Juárez, Mexico. The new store, led by local entrepreneur and franchisee Jonathan Rosas Blanco, marks a pivotal milestone in Dickey's international expansion, bringing authentic, slow-smoked barbecue to a new audience of food lovers. This opening is part of an ambitious plan to continue growing the brand's footprint in key Mexican markets, including CDMX and Monterrey. To celebrate the launch, Dickey's pulled out all the stops with a three-day grand opening event, delighting the community with their legendary flavors and famous hospitality. The celebration featured a special Grand Opening (G.O.) offer, with guests enjoying one of Dickey's Classic Pulled Pork or Marinated Chicken Breast Sandwiches for only 99 pesos, available through November 24th. Excitement reached new heights as 83 lucky adults received Big Yellow Tickets, granting them the opportunity to enjoy Dickey's barbecue for the next year. "We are beyond excited to bring our beloved Texas-style barbecue to Oaxaca de Juárez, with more expansion planned in the coming months," said Jonathan Rosas Blanco, local franchisee and visionary behind the Mexico expansion. "It is a privilege to introduce the community to Dickey's rich history, quality food, and warm hospitality. This is just the beginning of our journey in Mexico." Dickey's leadership expressed their enthusiasm for this new chapter in international growth. "We're honored to bring authentic barbecue to Oaxaca de Juárez and support passionate entrepreneurs like Jonathan as he spearheads our expansion into Mexico," said Roland Dickey , Jr., CEO of Dickey's Capital Group. "The energy and excitement around this opening show that there is a real appetite for our brand's flavors and traditions." Laura Rea Dickey , CEO of Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., added, "We're incredibly proud to continue sharing our pit-smoked heritage with the world, and this new location in Oaxaca de Juárez is a testament to the strong demand for Dickey's experience internationally. We look forward to building lasting connections in Mexico." Jim Perkins, Executive Vice President of International Development for Dickey's, commented on the significance of this launch. "This store represents an important step in our international strategy, and it showcases our ability to adapt and thrive in new markets with the help of dedicated franchisees like Jonathan." The Oaxaca de Juárez opening is the first of many planned locations for Mexico, with additional stores expected in CDMX and Monterrey in the near future. Dickey's continues to bring its signature blend of authentic, pit-smoked barbecue and exceptional service to communities worldwide. About Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. Founded in 1941 by The Dickey Family, Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. is the world's largest barbecue concept and continues as a third-generation family-run business. For over 80 years, Dickey's Barbecue Pit has served millions with its signature Legit. Texas. Barbecue.TM Slow-smoked over hickory wood-burning pits, Dickey's barbecued meats are paired with a variety of southern sides. Committed to authentic barbecue, Dickey's never takes shortcuts—because real barbecue can't be rushed. With over 866 restaurants across eight concepts in the U.S. and several countries, Dickey's Barbecue Franchise and Dickey's Restaurant Brands continues to grow under the leadership of Roland Dickey, Jr ., CEO of Dickey's Capital Group, and Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey's Barbecue Pit, Inc. Dickey's has been recognized on Newsweek's 2022 "America's Favorite Restaurant Chains" list, Nation's Restaurant News 2024 top fast-casual brands for value, and USA Today's 2021 Readers' Choice Awards. The brand has also ranked in the Top 20 of Fast Casual's "Top 100 Movers and Shakers" for four of the past five years. Additional accolades include Entrepreneur's Top 500 Franchise and Hospitality Technology's Industry Heroes list. The brand has been featured by Fox News, Forbes, Franchise Times, The Wall Street Journal, and People Magazine . For more information, visit www.dickeys.com . For information about becoming a franchise partner, visit www.dickeysfranchise.com. Attachment Jonathan Rosas Blanco and Abril © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
VANCOUVER, BC , Dec. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. ("West Fraser" or the "Company") (TSX and NYSE: WFG ) has declared a quarterly dividend of US$0.32 per share on the Common shares and Class B Common shares in the capital of the Company, payable on January 14, 2025 to shareholders of record on December 27, 2024. Dividends are designated to be eligible dividends pursuant to subsection 89(14) of the Income Tax Act ( Canada ) and any applicable provincial legislation pertaining to eligible dividends. Dividends are declared and payable in U.S. dollars. Shareholders may elect to receive their dividends in Canadian dollars. Details regarding the election procedure are available on our website at www.westfraser.com in the "Investors/Stock Information/Dividends" section. About West Fraser West Fraser is a diversified wood products company with more than 60 facilities in Canada , the United States , the United Kingdom , and Europe , which promotes sustainable forest practices in its operations. The Company produces lumber, engineered wood products (OSB, LVL, MDF, plywood, and particleboard), pulp, newsprint, wood chips, other residuals, and renewable energy. West Fraser's products are used in home construction, repair and remodelling, industrial applications, papers, tissue, and box materials. For more information about West Fraser, visit: westfraser.com. View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/west-fraser-declares-dividend-302329466.html SOURCE West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.The connections are clear between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers, longtime NFC South rivals. The teams get together for a meeting on Sunday in Charlotte and showed recent signs they can play with any team. "It's an NFC South battle," Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles said. "All of them are going to be hard, none of them (are) going to be easy. ... They're playing pretty good football. They missed some games here and there, but they're playing very good football. It's going to be a tough battle." Few introductions are needed on Sunday, as first-year Panthers coach Dave Canales came to Carolina after serving as Buccaneers offensive coordinator a season ago. Canales' prized pupil last season, Tampa Bay quarterback Baker Mayfield was with the Panthers for part of the 2022 campaign. "There's some familiarity," Canales said of his connection to the Buccaneers. "Knowing coach Bowles, he's got a really sophisticated system and he attacks each team with a specific game plan. There's some principles that carry over. I know that he's going to have some things up his sleeve." The Buccaneers (5-6) playing a division opponent for the first time since an Oct. 27 loss to the Atlanta Falcons. The goal will be notching back-to-back wins for the first time since the first two weeks of the season. Four different ball-carriers, including Mayfield, found the end zone on the ground during a 30-7 drubbing of the New York Giants last Sunday. Mayfield also completed 24 of 30 passes for 294 yards. "For me, the biggest thing was blocking and tackling," Bowles said of what his team did well last weekend. "We cleaned up the fundamental and technique part of it." Star wideout Mike Evans was back in action for Tampa Bay following a three-game absence due to a hamstring injury. He finished with five receptions for 68 yards against the Giants and now gets a crack at a Carolina team allowing a league-high 30.9 points per game this season. However, the Panthers have tightened up their play as of late, winning two games in a row before hanging with the two-time defending champion Kansas City Chiefs in a 30-27 setback last Sunday. The outing against Kansas City may have been the most efficient performance of Panthers quarterback Bryce Young's two-year career. Young completed 21 of 35 passes for 263 yards and one score without throwing a pick. "It's not all Bryce, it's the whole unit," Canales said. "It's a collective effort, but he certainly needs to be the voice and driver of that." Wide receiver Jalen Coker (quadriceps), tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders (neck) and safety Lonnie Johnson (personal) were all missing from practice on Wednesday for Carolina. Defensive end LaBryan Ray is dealing with a hand issue and was among those limited. Safety Jordan Whitehead (pectoral) was one of four Buccaneers to miss practice on Wednesday. Evans practiced in full. Carolina and Tampa Bay might as well get used to each other, as the two teams will collide again in Week 17. --Field Level Media
Jack Ma, the visionary founder of Alibaba Group and Ant Group, recently delivered a thought-provoking speech at the 20th anniversary celebration of Ant Group. During his address, Ma offered insights into the potential impact of artificial intelligence on various industries and the broader society in the coming years. His forward-thinking ideas shed light on the transformative power of AI and the opportunities it presents for businesses and individuals alike.