Wildfires in Los Angeles

In response to the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, authorities have implemented a night-time curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. in the evacuation zones of the Palisades and Eaton Fires. This measure aims to prevent looting in the affected areas.

Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna reported that at least 20 individuals have been arrested for looting since the fires began. He emphasized that unauthorized presence in evacuation zones will lead to arrest, stating, “If you are in one of these areas and you do not belong there, you are going to be subject to arrest.”

To bolster security, 400 members of the California National Guard have been deployed to assist local law enforcement with traffic control and protection of critical infrastructure. This deployment allows law enforcement to allocate resources to other critical areas throughout the county.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger condemned the looting activities, stating, “Shame on those who are preying on our residents during this time of crisis.” She assured that law enforcement is proactively patrolling impacted communities to prevent criminal activity.

The wildfires have resulted in at least 10 fatalities and the destruction of over 10,000 structures. Thousands of residents remain under evacuation orders as firefighters continue to battle the blazes.

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Bootlegger, Ricki’s, and Cleo facing major store closures

Comark Holdings Inc., the Vancouver-based parent company of Canadian retail chains Ricki’s, Cleo, and Bootlegger, has announced plans to wind down the Ricki’s and Cleo brands and downsize Bootlegger.

This decision will affect a combined 129 stores across Canada, including 75 Ricki’s locations and 54 Cleo stores.

Comark Holdings operates a total of 221 stores across eight Canadian provinces, employing around 2,000 people.

The company has filed for creditor protection under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) as part of a broader restructuring effort.

The closures come amid a challenging period for the company, marked by multiple setbacks, including the COVID-19 pandemic, a November 2021 ransomware attack, and ongoing pressures from rising competition in the fashion retail industry.

Supply chain disruptions have also contributed to the company’s financial struggles.

Retail analyst Bruce Winder notes that middle retail, particularly mall-based stores that are neither low-end nor high-end, has suffered over the last decade.

The pandemic weakened both retailers and consumers, leading to changes in shopping behavior.

Consumers facing high inflation and taxes are opting for lower-cost online alternatives or luxury items, leaving middle retailers struggling to adapt.

Comark is seeking a court order to approve the liquidation of all Ricki’s and Cleo stores, though the storefronts will remain operational during the liquidation period.

The company will continue to explore opportunities for Bootlegger as part of the creditor protection process.

This development highlights the increasing challenges faced by traditional brick-and-mortar retailers in Canada, as many businesses shift towards e-commerce models to meet evolving consumer preferences.

Price jumps at the pumps.

As of January 10, 2025, the New Brunswick Energy & Utilities Board has set the following maximum prices for petroleum products:

  • Regular Gasoline (Self-serve): 163.5 cents per litre
  • Regular Gasoline (Full-serve): 167.0 cents per litre
  • Mid-grade Gasoline (Self-serve): 168.2 cents per litre
  • Mid-grade Gasoline (Full-serve): 171.6 cents per litre
  • Premium Gasoline (Self-serve): 172.8 cents per litre
  • Premium Gasoline (Full-serve): 176.3 cents per litre
  • Ultra-low Sulphur Diesel (Self-serve): 187.4 cents per litre
  • Ultra-low Sulphur Diesel (Full-serve): 190.9 cents per litre
  • Furnace Oil: 154.7 cents per litre
  • Propane: 124.1 cents per litre

These prices include Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) and are subject to change based on market conditions.

In Saint John, New Brunswick, recent data indicates that gasoline prices are approximately 6.16 Canadian dollars per gallon.

Additionally, predictions for January 10, 2025, suggest the following prices:

  • Regular Gasoline: 162.9 cents per litre
  • Premium Gasoline: 173.9 cents per litre
  • Diesel: 185.8 cents per litre

Please note that actual prices at individual gas stations may vary. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s advisable to check with local fuel retailers or consult the New Brunswick Energy & Utilities Board’s official website.