Saturday, June 20, 2026
Google search engine
Home Blog Page 418

Delta goes pasta-only for thousands of international travelers after ‘spoiled’ food forced a flight to divert

0

A Boeing 767 passenger aircraft of Delta Air Lines arrives from Dublin at JFK International Airport in New York as the Manhattan skyline looms in the background on Feb. 7, 2024.

Charly Triballeau | Afp | Getty Images

Delta Air Lines pulled some meal options from dozens of international flights on Wednesday hours after the carrier said reports of “spoiled” food on an Amsterdam-bound flight forced the plane to divert to New York.

Delta was only serving pasta in the main cabin on about 75 international flights on Wednesday and a similar number on Thursday, according to an airline spokeswoman.

“Out of an abundance of caution, Delta teams have proactively adjusted our in-flight meal service on a number of international flights,” the spokeswoman said in a statement to CNBC on Wednesday.

Delta apologized to customers over the report of spoiled food in the main cabin on the Detroit-to-Amsterdam flight.

“This is not the service Delta is known for and we sincerely apologize to our customers for the inconvenience and delay in their travels,” Delta said.

In an email to staff on Wednesday, Ash Dhokte, who leads onboard service at Delta, said the airline is investigating what went wrong and that “immediate corrective actions have been implemented to avoid recurrence.” 

Do&Co., a Delta caterer, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

“As our last line of defense, please examine the dish before serving it and do not serve any food that may have a contaminant,” Dhokte wrote, noting that onboard food safety incidents are “extremely rare.”

The incident occurred in the midst of the peak summer travel season, when Delta and its rivals are fighting over travelers. Airlines serve thousands of meals a day to customers and such incidents are rare, said Henry Harteveldt, a travel consultant and founder of Atmosphere Research Group.

“Delta is taking prudent action. When you have a food scare you don’t want anyone getting sick on a plane,” said Harteveldt. “Going to all pasta is the safest and smartest option.”

The airline industry is facing another challenge: a possible strike by workers at major inflight caterer Gate Gourmet. Federal mediators released Gate Gourmet and its unions from mediation earlier this week, paving the way for a potential strike at the end of July.

“Gate Gourmet caters for us at 19 domestic stations and we are reviewing strategies to limit disruptions for you and our customers should an interruption occur,” Delta’s Dhokte said in the staff note Wednesday.

A behind-the-scenes look at how American Airlines makes 15,000 meals a day

Source

5-year-old girl who visited Disney World loses beloved toy 4,200 miles from home — then, surprise

0

Join Fox News for access to this content

Plus special access to select articles and other premium content with your account – free of charge.

By entering your email and pushing continue, you are agreeing to Fox News’ Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, which includes our Notice of Financial Incentive.

Please enter a valid email address.

A young girl has Mickey Mouse to thank for a remarkable act of kindness. 

Leilani Hatton, age 5, from Darlington, England, recently took a trip to Disney World in Orlando, Florida, but came home without her teddy bear. 

Hatton’s family traveled roughly 4,200 miles for the trip and had the bear named Jofli with them up until the end, according to SWNS, the British news service. 

VIRGINIA HOTEL EMPLOYEES RESCUE TODDLER’S LOST STUFFED ANIMAL, TAKE PHOTOS OF IT WORKING AND EXERCISING

Grandmother Lynne Cullen said Hatton takes Jofli with her “anywhere and everywhere.”

But then, “one of the days we just suddenly realized he wasn’t with us anymore. We got back to the hotel and thought, ‘Where’s the bear?’”

Hatton with Minnie Mouse

Leilani Hatton took her stuffed animal with her to Disney World on a family vacation.  (SWNS)

After reviewing photos from the trip to see when Jofli might have gone missing, the family determined he must have been left at either Epcot or the Magic Kingdom. 

Cullen said the family had brought Jofli with them into each park to meet the Disney princesses. 

HOTEL REUNITES GIRL, 10, WITH STUFFED ANIMAL SHE LEFT BEHIND ON VACATION

She added, “We’ve got photographs of her with this bear and all the Disney princesses and characters.”

Hatton with teddy bear

The family put in a lost property claim before they went home — but didn’t have high hopes of getting their daughter’s beloved stuffed animal back.  (SWNS)

After realizing that Jofli was lost, the family had no choice but to continue with their trip and go home to England. 

Cullen told Fox News Digital the family put in a lost property claim the day before they went home but didn’t have high hopes of getting the item back. 

WOMAN FINDS LOST STUFFED BUNNY AND WANTS TO LOCATE ITS OWNER: ‘LOOKS LIKE IT WAS PRETTY LOVED’

About two weeks later, however, something surprising occurred.

“We got an email a couple of weeks later saying [Jofli] had been found, and he arrived in the post a few days later,” she told Fox News Digital. 

Thank you letter

The grateful young girl wrote a thank-you note to Mickey Mouse after the most surprising thing happened.  (SWNS)

Disney employees somehow found the beloved stuffed animal — and mailed it about 4,200 miles to Hatton’s home. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

Grandmother Cullen said the family let Hatton open the package — which contained Jofli, safe and sound.

“We surprised her and let her open the parcel, saying that Mickey Mouse found it for her. The teddy has always been important to her, so she was delighted,” she told SWNS. 

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

She added, “Those parks are massive, and there must be a lot of lost property, so it was a really lovely touch for them to go out of their way and make sure he returned home.”

Disney girl stuffed animal

A five-year-old girl experienced quite the surprise after her beloved stuffed animal went missing at Disney World.  (SWNS)

Hatton then wrote a “thank you” note to Mickey Mouse for returning her toy and sending it safely home.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews/lifestyle

Cullen said, “Jofli has certainly had an adventure of his own, and he’s ready for his next one after returning from America.”

Source

INC Unveils Gen Z Preferences for Nuts and Dried Fruits and Snacking in Latin America

0
  • Peanuts, almonds and walnuts are consumed the most among Gen Z in Latin America
  • 96% snack between meals, yogurt, dairy products, and fresh fruits being common choices
  • Taste and health benefits are the primary drivers for consuming nuts and dried fruits
  • INC’s NutTunes campaign set to encourage nut and dried fruit consumption through Spotify

BARCELONA, Spain, July 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC), conducted an extensive study on Latin America’s Gen Z dietary preferences, focusing on their consumption of nuts and dried fruits.

Nut Tunes: Feeds Your Vibe! Discover the Album on Spotify!
Nut Tunes: Feeds Your Vibe! Discover the Album on Spotify!

Generation Z prioritizes foods offering essential nutrients, plant-based protein, energy, vitamins, and fiber. The study showed that nuts and dried fruits are valued by Gen Z for their health benefits, including digestive health, heart health, and immune system support. Despite these benefits, Gen Z’s consumption of nuts and dried fruits shows room for growth.

The study surveyed 2000 respondents across Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Mexico, revealing high awareness of nuts, especially peanuts (99%), almonds (97%), and walnuts (94%). Dried fruits like raisins (96%) and prunes (88%) are also well-known but less so.

Although there are slight nuances across countries, peanuts, almonds, and walnuts are the most consumed nuts by Gen Z followed by cashews, hazelnuts and pistachios. While raisins, dried cranberries, and prunes lead in dried fruits. Many respondents cited taste, price, and lack of information as barriers to regular consumption. Known as the “snacking generation,” 96% of Gen Z reported snacking between meals, preferring yogurt, dairy products, and fresh fruits. Nuts and dried fruits are popular but rank lower in preference.

To boost the appeal of nuts and dried fruits, INC recommends focusing on their uses and health benefits in marketing campaigns. To capture the attention of the target audience, INC has launched NutTunes, a series of captivating videos featuring 3D animation and AI technology. In these videos, nuts and dried fruits come to life and sing about their health benefits. The campaign will be promoted on social media, with tailored content for each market. Additionally, “The NutTunes” playlist is available on Spotify, providing an engaging way to connect with the audeince.

Understanding Gen Z’s preferences and attitudes is essential for businesses. By addressing barriers and emphasizing consumption drivers, INC aims to support healthier dietary choices through nut and dried fruit consumption among Gen Z in Latin America.

Source

U.S. named the worst place for British families to move abroad. Here’s why

0

From recent graduates to wealthy professionals, many Brits are considering moving abroad these days.

And the motivating force for many is clear: money.

Over half of British workers (52%) have considered leaving the United Kingdom for better working opportunities abroad, according to the British human resources website Employer News.

Others are in search of affordable housing and lower taxes, it said, citing research from London-based financial services company Prograd.

But contemplating moving abroad, and actually doing it, are very different things, especially for parents, who must consider if the grass is greener abroad — with the whole family in mind.  

According to the expat insurance company Williams Russell, countries in the European Union are the best bet for Brits looking to leave the UK — with Portugal, Sweden, Italy, Spain and Finland topping the list.

But the United States — often referred to as Britain’s “cousin” — comes in dead last in the ranking of 28 countries, dragged down by high childcare costs and long work hours.

Averaging $2,793 per month for a three-bedroom apartment, rent in the United States is higher than every country on the list, but for Switzerland ($3,281) and Ireland ($2,830), according to Williams Russell.

The company relied on user-generated data website Numbeo to determine country-wide rental averages, estimating Brits will pay about 34% more in rent to live in the U.S. than their home country.

The U.S. also takes a hit for being the only country on the list without federally mandated paid maternity and paternity leave.

However, 13 states and the District of Columbia have paid family leave laws on the books, including New York, New Jersey, California, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, Oregon, Rhode Island and Washington state, according to the not-for-profit Bipartisan Policy Center.

Workers may also want to check their employment benefits. In 2023, nearly 40% of management and professional occupations were entitled to paid family leave, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics.

UK vs. U.S. universities

British families with older children may be swayed by the number of top universities in the U.S. At 97, the United States has more than Germany (34), Italy (19), Australia (17) and Canada (16) combined.  

However, American universities typically cost more than those in the United Kingdom, according to education company Kings Education.

Tuition fees for British citizens are capped at 9,250 British pounds ($15,950) per year. Comparatively, the cost to attend university in the U.S. varies wildly by school. Private universities are often more expensive than public ones, and out-of-state students pay more than in-state students, as a general rule.

For Brits looking for a ballpark figure to attend college in America, “International students can expect to pay up to $45,000 a year to study a bachelor’s degree at a public university, and up to $55,000 a year or more at some private institutions,” according to Kings Education.

American university costs have risen precipitously in the past few decades — a trend which has slowed since the pandemic.

Eight schools, including New York University, Tufts, Brown and Yale, are nearing the $100,00-per-year mark for tuition and living costs; however families often find ways to pay far less.

Source

Ascentage Pharma Received US$100 Million Option Payment from Takeda

0

ROCKVILLE, Md. and SUZHOU, China, July 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Ascentage Pharma (6855.HK), a global biopharmaceutical company engaged in discovering, developing and commercializing both first-in-class and best-in-class therapies for hematological malignancies, announced today that on July 2, 2024, in relation to the Exclusive Option Agreement with Takeda for the third-generation BCR-ABL inhibitor olverembatinib (HQP1351), Ascentage Pharma has received the US$100 million option payment called for by the Exclusive Option Agreement.

On June 14, 2024, Ascentage Pharma and Takeda entered into an Exclusive Option Agreement that granted Takeda an exclusive option to enter into an exclusive license agreement for olverembatinib. The Exclusive Option Agreement calls for Ascentage Pharma to receive an option payment of US$100 million and provides for Ascentage Pharma to be eligible for an option exercise fee and additional potential milestone payments of up to approximately US$1.2 billion and double-digit royalties on annual sales.

About Ascentage Pharma

Ascentage Pharma (6855.HK) is a fully integrated global biopharmaceutical company engaged in discovering, developing and commercializing both first-in-class and best-in-class therapies to address global unmet medical needs primarily in hematological malignancies. On October 28, 2019, Ascentage Pharma was listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited with the stock code 6855.HK.

Ascentage Pharma has built a pipeline of 9 clinical-stage drug candidates, including novel, highly potent Bcl-2, and dual Bcl-2/Bcl-xL inhibitors, as well as candidates aimed at IAP and MDM2-p53 pathways, and next-generation TKIs. Ascentage Pharma is also the only company in the world with active clinical programs targeting all three known classes of key apoptosis regulators. The company is conducting more than 40 clinical trials, including 6 global registrational Phase III studies, in the US, Australia, Europe, and China.

Olverembatinib, the company’s first lead asset developed for the treatment of drug-resistant chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and the company’s first approved product in China, has been granted Priority Review Designations and Breakthrough Therapy Designations by the Center for Drug Evaluation (CDE) of China National Medical Products Administration (NMPA). To date, the drug had been included into the China National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL). Furthermore, olverembatinib has been granted Orphan Drug Designations (ODDs) and a Fast Track Designation (FTD) by the US FDA, and an Orphan Designation by the EMA of the EU.

To date, Ascentage Pharma has obtained a total of 16 ODDs from the US FDA and 1 Orphan Designation from the EMA of the EU for 4 of the company’s investigational drug candidates. Leveraging its robust R&D capabilities, Ascentage Pharma has built a portfolio of global intellectual property rights and entered into global partnerships with numerous leading biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies such as Takeda, AstraZeneca, Merck, Pfizer and Innovent; and research and development relationships with leading research institutions such as Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Mayo Clinic, MD Anderson Cancer Center, National Cancer Institute and the University of Michigan.

The company has built a talented team with global experience in the discovery and development of innovative drugs and is setting up its world-class commercial manufacturing and Sales & Marketing teams. One pivotal aim of Ascentage Pharma is to continuously strengthen its R&D capabilities and accelerate its clinical development programs, in order to fulfil its mission of addressing unmet clinical needs in China and around the world for the benefit of more patients.

Forward-Looking Statements

The forward-looking statements made in this article relate only to the events or information as of the date on which the statements are made in this article. Except as required by law, Ascentage Pharma undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. You should read this article completely and with the understanding that our actual future results or performance may be materially different from what we expect. In this article, statements of, or references to, our intentions and expectations or those of any of our Directors or our Company are made as of the date of this article. Any of these intentions and expectations may alter in light of future development.

Source

Tulsa, Oklahoma is named official capital of Route 66: ‘Exciting day’

0

Join Fox News for access to this content

Plus special access to select articles and other premium content with your account – free of charge.

By entering your email and pushing continue, you are agreeing to Fox News’ Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, which includes our Notice of Financial Incentive.

Please enter a valid email address.

America’s heartland is special — and now there’s a new reason to celebrate.

Tulsa, Oklahoma just secured the U.S. copyright as the official capital of the legendary Route 66, long-regarded as a central piece of the history of America’s Main Street. 

Tulsa can now officially lay claim to the title of Capital of Route 66. 

10 MOST PATRIOTIC STATES AHEAD OF JULY 4: SEE IF YOUR HOME STATE MADE THE LIST

The Tulsa Route 66 Commission, an official entity through the City of Tulsa, secured a copyright on the term “Capital of Route 66” — solidifying Tulsa’s significance in the history of the famous route, a media statement noted. 

This process spanned over two years and was fueled by extensive research and surveys.

Tulsa, Oklahoma route 66

The Tulsa Route 66 Commission, an official entity of the City of Tulsa, secured a copyright on the term “Capital of Route 66” — solidifying Tulsa’s significance in the history of the famous route.  (iStock)

The acclaimed final approval from the federal government happened in April. 

In 1926, the highway received its official designation as Route 66.  

“The Mother Road,” as it was referred to by John Steinbeck in his 1939 saga “The Grapes of Wrath,” was commissioned on Nov. 11, 1926. 

18 MUST-READ CLASSIC BOOKS THAT HAVE REMAINED POPULAR YEARS AFTER THEIR OFFICIAL PUBLICATION 

It stretched 2,448 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, according to Route66roadtrip.com. 

“In our region, Tulsa has long been known as the Capital of Route 66,” said Josh Stout, chair of the Tulsa Route 66 commission. 

Tulsa, Oklahoma route 66

A black-and-white road sign for historic Route 66. Tulsa has been a positive incubator for Route 66 during its birth, the last century and now leading into the future.” (iStock)

“Now officially recognized, this will give our businesses and residents along Tulsa’s stretch of the most famous road in the world the proper recognition on a more national and even international scale,” said Stout to Fox News Digital. 

“As we build toward the 2026 centennial celebrations, our continued development of the authentic 66 tourism experience is in … overdrive,” he said.

AMERICA WILL BE BUILDING ITS 250TH BIRTHDAY AND EVERYONE’S INVITED: ‘BE INSPIRED FOR OUR COUNTRY’S FUTURE’

“Tulsa has been a positive incubator for Route 66 during its birth, the last century and now leading into the future.”

Tulsa boasts 28 miles of Route 66 within the city limits, bookended by Gateway Arches on the east and west. 

Other local dignitaries are just as proud. 

Tulsa, Oklahoma

The Tulsa skyline with a park, pond, and fountains in the foreground. (iStock)

“Tulsa and Route 66 are deeply connected with the Mother Road running through the heart of our city,” Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum said in a press statement. 

“Route 66 is an integral part of Tulsa’s identity, and we’ve long been known as the Capital of Route 66,” said Bynum. 

3 GREAT AMERICAN CITIES FOR HISTORY BUFFS AND PATRIOTIC TRAVELERS THIS SUMMER

“To have this official designation is an exciting day for Tulsa, our region and the state of Oklahoma.” 

Tulsa boasts 28 miles of Route 66 within the city limits, bookended by Gateway Arches on the east and west, the commission reported.  

Tulsa, Oklahoma

The downtown skyline of Tulsa, Oklahoma, at twilight. (iStock)

This official copyright will further highlight Tulsa’s prominence in the Route 66 story, solidifying its place as a city that shaped the road in a profound way, the group also noted.

On June 27, 1985, Route 66 came to an end after 59 years after the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials decertified the road, and voted to remove its highway signs, according to History.com.

ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY, JUNE 27, 1985, ICONIC ROUTE 66 REACHES THE ‘END OF THE ROAD’ 

The history of Route 66 intersects Tulsa in many regards. 

Of note, the first U.S. 66 Highway Association, the original association that promoted Route 66, was founded in Tulsa. 

Route 66 brings in visitors to experience Americana on the Mother Road, as well as Mother Road Market, an expansive food hall. 

Tulsa’s stretch of Route 66 welcomes visitors to experience the history, charm and attractions of the city. 

Highway sign for route 66

A highway sign for Route 66 on the asphalt of the country road is shown.  (iStock)

“Tulsa is a vibrant, welcoming city connected to its history while looking toward the future,” Renee McKenney, senior vice president of tourism for the Tulsa Regional Chamber and president of Tulsa Regional Tourism, told Fox News Digital. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

She noted that Route 66 brings in visitors to experience Americana on the Mother Road, as well as Mother Road Market, an expansive food hall

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

“Other must-see spots include Black Wall Street in the Historic Greenwood District and T-Town’s notable music and entertainment icons, like the 100-year-old Cain’s Ballroom, The Church Studio, the Bob Dylan Center and Woody Guthrie Center archives, or the Outsiders House Museum,” McKenney said. 

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews/lifestyle

“No matter where visitors come from or what they’re seeking, they can find it in Tulsa.” 

Source

This flowy tank ‘covers the right areas’:and it’s a mere $12 for the 4th of July

0

We’re getting into the dog days of summer — how are you tackling the heat? For all the days you have to be out and about and not, say, wearing a bathing suit and lazing by the pool, we recommend an easy, breezy tank — ideally one that’s flowy enough to not cling to your body and make you even less comfortable than you already are. Does such a Goldilocks-ideal top exist? We think so! Over 12,000 Amazon shoppers agree that this tank does just that, and it’s down to as low as $12 thanks to Amazon’s 4th of July sale.

Amazon

This flowy tank is sure to be your go-to summer top.

Save $3 with coupon

$12 at Amazon

Why is this a good deal? 💰

For as little as $12 in black and white (and only a few bucks more in a ton of other colors and patterns), you can grab this flowy and flattering piece to enjoy all summer. In fact, that price is so great that you might want to snag several to go with a range of outfits!

Why do I need this? 🤔

The Xieerduo Women’s Tank Top is made out of a soft and stretchy polyester, rayon and spandex blend, which makes it perfectly lightweight and breathable for the summer heat. It has a sharkbite hem, and is long enough to be tucked into shorts, skirts and jeans or even worn over a pair of leggings or bike shorts — as a reviewer wrote, “It covers the right areas.”

Available in an incredible range of 44 different colors and patterns and ranging in size from S to 3XL, there’s bound to be a variety on hand with your name on it. Shoppers in particular rave about how flattering this tank is. As one of them put it: “Love this tank! Very comfortable and don’t have to worry about showing anything, rolls or other. Goes with everything. Bought two colors!” Plus, unlike inferior tanks, it’s not overly revealing, which makes it perfect for, among other occasions, wearing over a sports bra at the gym.

two women wearing tank tops in white and blue

We know what you’re thinking: “That tank is awesome.” Also: “Why is the one on the beach wearing the long pants?” Irony! (Amazon)

What reviewers say 💬

More than 12,000 Amazon reviewers have given the Xieerduo Flowy V-Neck Tank a fab five-star rating, with a ton of fans raving about its comfort level, look, versatility and breathability even on the hottest of summer days.

Pros 👍

Need a top that’ll work with a variety of outfits? This shopper says the Xieerduo is your ticket to easy style. “Great top to wear with denims. Long enough to tuck in or wear loose,” they noted. “Looks great with a blazer or cardigan. True to size. Can be dressed up or casual. Love the material. Very flattering.”

Another fan added that “They’re long enough to cover my butt which is sometimes hard to find,” an especially welcome factor for anyone wanting to wear them over leggings or bike shorts and would like to conceal their tush a little bit. A similarly-minded reviewer agreed: “Soft and comfortable. They cover my rear and they are not clingy to your body or tight around the middle,” they said.

One happy customer declared that it easily stands up to the sweltering clime of the Sunshine State. “This tank top is everything I wanted for my morning walks. Lightweight but not too thin, a little stretchy but not clingy. The material is soft and breathable, perfect for summer in Florida! It washes and dries very well, going through both machines with no fading, shrinking, pilling, etc. I especially like the V-neck and the little notch in the seams at the hips (believe me, I don’t want to accentuate my hips).”

Cons 👎

A few shoppers note that certain lighter colors may appear more sheer than other options. “It is a little see-through,” said one writer who picked up the white variety, suggesting wearing another shirt underneath.

Another wearer agreed after ordering the light gray-purple color: “I liked the T-shirt and the color and length was good, but it’s very, very sheer T-shirt material. It looks nice now, but I’m afraid after one washing it’s going to look cheaper than it does now. Definitely plan on wearing a sports bra or a camisole underneath.”

Amazon

Snap up this flowy frock in a wide range of colors and patterns — 44 options, to be exact!

$15 at Amazon

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

If you have Amazon Prime, you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.)

  • Grace & Stella Hyaluronic Acid Serum

    Save $6 with coupon

  • Bold Uniq Purple Toning Shampoo & Conditioner Set

    Save $9 with code

  • Brouk & Co The Capri Everyday Stripe Tote

    $16$20

    Save $4

Source

90-year-old travels to see Taylor Swift’s ‘Eras Tour’ with granddaughter, says her heart ‘still young’

0

Join Fox News for access to this content

Plus special access to select articles and other premium content with your account – free of charge.

By entering your email and pushing continue, you are agreeing to Fox News’ Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, which includes our Notice of Financial Incentive.

Please enter a valid email address.

A grandmother recently celebrated a milestone birthday by shaking it off at Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour.”

Nancy Strong is a travel agency CEO from Dallas, Texas, who has been a major “Swiftie” for the past 10 years. 

Strong told Fox News Digital this week that her love for the pop star began in 2009 when Kanye West famously interrupted Swift’s acceptance speech at the VMAs. 

AT THIS ‘DIRTY DANCING’ NOSTALGIC FESTIVAL, FANS CAN HAVE ‘THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE’ 

“She handled that situation with such grace, and I have looked up to her ever since,” she said.

The 90-year-old business owner said she relates to Swift in many ways, despite their roughly 55-year age difference. 

Strong women at Eras Tour

Nancy Strong, left, with her granddaughter, Jennifer Strong, attended the “Eras Tour” for Nancy Strong’s 90th birthday in Paris, France.  (Jennifer Strong)

“She was brought up in Redding, Pennsylvania, where I raised five boys in the ’60s — [it] will always have a special place in my heart,” she said in an email to Fox News Digital. 

For her milestone 90th birthday, Strong said she wanted to celebrate in a big way by seeing Taylor Swift perform on the “Eras Tour.”

HELEN KELLER’S BIRTHPLACE, IVY GREEN, IS KEY TRAVEL DESTINATION FOR FANS OF ‘THE MIRACLE WORKER’

She said, “I wanted to celebrate my 90th dancing to Taylor Swift!”

Swift made a stop in Paris, France, earlier this summer — so Strong took her granddaughter, Jennifer Strong, with her to Europe. 

Nancy Strong at Taylor Swift's Eras Tour

Nancy Strong told Fox News Digital that her heart is young and she relates to pop star Taylor Swift in many ways.  (Jennifer Strong)

Jennifer Strong, 32, told Fox News Digital that experiencing the concert with her grandmother was “pure magic.”

“As with everyone who attends, Grammy was in complete awe of Taylor and couldn’t help but immediately start dancing and singing along,” she said. 

CALIFORNIA SHOW OF TAYLOR SWIFT’S ‘ERAS TOUR’ CLASSIFIED AS ‘MICROEARTHQUAKE’: THESE 5 SONGS HIT LOUDEST

She added, “They are truly memories I will cherish forever.”

The pair then made it to one of Swift’s London, England, shows in late June — making Nancy Strong a Swiftie who has seen the singer more than once on the highly sought after tour. 

Nancy Strong and Jennifer Strong before The Eras Tour

Nancy Strong and Jennifer Strong traveled to Paris and London during Swift’s European leg of the “Eras Tour” to see the pop star.  (Jennifer Strong)

Nancy Strong said her favorite Taylor Swift song is “The Man” from her 2019 “Lover” album due to the relatability she feels with the lyrics. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

“I am a woman who started a business in the 1970s in a male-oriented world, ‘wondering if I could get there quicker if I was a man.’ These lyrics really hit home for me,” she told Fox News Digital. 

Nancy Strong at The Eras Tour merch stand

Strong said all she wanted for her 90th birthday was to dance to Taylor Swift and her music.  (Jennifer Strong)

The successful businessperson has also been married to her husband, Ace Strong, for 70 years — and said she likes the “Lover” album as it reminds her of their true love. 

“Trust me, I know it’s a lot of years, but at the end of the day, [my] heart is still 20 years old.”

Jennifer Strong said that watching her grandmother listen to “The Man” at the “Eras Tour” was a “full-circle moment.”

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

“Grammy has always represented to me what it means to be a hardworking, positive, and total boss lady in her industry! (Just like Taylor!),” she said via email. 

Eras Tour stage and Taylor Swift

A 90-year-old woman from Texas attended stops on the “Eras Tour” in Europe on her milestone birthday.  (Jennifer Strong/Getty Images)

Nancy Strong said she hopes to attend one of Swift’s U.S. tour dates later this year with her granddaughter. 

“I know when Jen [Strong] looks back at our time at ‘The Eras Tour’ concert, she will be grinning from ear to ear — and that fulfills my heart,” she added. 

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews/lifestyle

The grandmother added that she hopes to continue dancing and supporting Swift throughout her career. 

She said, “Trust me, I know it’s a lot of years, but at the end of the day, [my] heart is still 20 years old.”

Source

Knowledge of Design Week (KODW) 2024 Concludes With Over 2,300 in Attendance

0

Leading the Way in Design Innovation at Hong Kong’s Premier Annual Event

HONG KONG, July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Knowledge of Design Week (KODW) 2024, organized by Hong Kong Design Center (HKDC), has concluded after 30 forums, 7 workshops, 5 masterclasses and a series of meet-the-speakers and networking sessions held by over 30 renowned pioneers and creative leaders from a broad spectrum of creative industries across the globe at W Hong Kong hotel and other offsite premises under the theme “Inter/Section: Crafting Tomorrow’s Design“. The speakers gathered to exchange, ideate and envision the future of design, business and society through the innovative fusions of craftsmanship and technology with over 2,300 in attendance in the three-day event, bolstering Hong Kong’s position as a hub for design, technology and innovation between Asia and the world. The event’s success was made possible through the incredible support from the Lead Sponsor, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), our year-round Partner Country France, and Regional Strategic Partners Guangzhou Design Week, Macau Designers Association, and Macau Design Centre.

With the theme “Inter/Section: Crafting Tomorrow’s Design”, Knowledge of Design Week (KODW) 2024 opens on 25 June. Officiating guests at the opening ceremony Mr Victor Tsang, Commissioner for Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency; Christile Drulhe, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau; Prof. Eric Yim, Chairman, Hong Kong Design Centre, kick start the fully physical event from 25 to 27 June.
With the theme “Inter/Section: Crafting Tomorrow’s Design”, Knowledge of Design Week (KODW) 2024 opens on 25 June. Officiating guests at the opening ceremony Mr Victor Tsang, Commissioner for Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency; Christile Drulhe, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau; Prof. Eric Yim, Chairman, Hong Kong Design Centre, kick start the fully physical event from 25 to 27 June.

Prof. Eric Yim, Chairman of Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC) said, “HKDC is fully committed to our mission of promoting Hong Kong’s design economy, inspiring design thinking within the creative sector, and elevating Hong Kong’s desirability as a nexus for East-West exchanges in design business and tourism, with continued initiatives alongside France, our partner country extending throughout the rest of the year. Our calendar of events includes the annually recurring Business of Design Week (BODW) 2024, the Maison&Objet trade fair, as part of the ‘Design December’ initiative, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Sino-France bilateral relations, and help shape the future of Hong Kong as a true design centre for high-quality arts, culture and creativity.” Carrying forward the momentum from KODW 2024, the BODW 2024 summit later this year will feature a 3-day long programme that showcases the exceptional talent and creative visionaries at the forefront of design, brands and innovation under the theme “Inter/Section: Design, Artistry, and Innovation“. BODW 2024 and the Maison&Objet trade fair in Hong Kong are also sponsored by CCIDA.

Prof. Eric Yim expressed his gratitude to the continual support from CCIDA, formerly known as Create Hong Kong, to KODW, and to Mr Kevin Yeung, GBS, JP, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, and Mr Victor Tsang, Commissioner for Cultural and Creative Industries, for officiating at the InnoDesign Leadership-Forum-cum-CEO Dinner and the Opening Ceremony of this year’s KODW respectively.

The KODW 2024 theme “Inter/Section: Crafting Tomorrow’s Design” spanned a variety of discussion topics on Scenography and Exhibition Design, Communication Design and AI, Architecture and Built Environment, Craftsmanship & Artisans, Design Education and Furniture & Product Design.

Some of the pointers raised by speakers are as follows:

Speakers from France

During their panel “Crafting Aesthetics in Exhibition and Curation Design”, Nathalie Crinière, Founder and CEO of Agence NC, and Laurent Ungerer, Founder & CEO of c-album, shared insights on scenography and communication design. They believe that the location is of utmost importance in scenography design, and that designers need to consider its physical conditions alongside their own emotional reactions. They stressed that designers and curators must work together, as location and scenographic design “are really to help visitors understand the content, and has to touch the heart of every visitor”, serving the critical role of conveying the exhibit’s intent to audiences on behalf of the curators.

On the topic “Aesop on Store Design”, Director of Aesop’s Global Retail Design Marianne Lardilleux spoke on the necessity of intelligence and sustainability in Aesop’s interior designs, and on prioritising both functionality and aesthetic appeal, sharing that “We want to have engaging conversations with our customers, and to do so we have the same level of intellect in the way we designed our stores.” 

Sylvie Corréard, CEO of Les Arts Décoratifs, on her forum “Craftsmanship, Design and Inspiration: The Unique Role of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs”, shared how the intersections of design inspired her practice. “We could describe our collection as a polysemic collection. The very principle of the collection was structured around heritage and contemporary creation. The idea was to showcase and preserve objects from the past or from other cultures that could inspire current creativity. It was necessary to acquire and exhibit ongoing creations that reflect technical, artistic, and industrial evolution.” 

Speakers from Hong Kong

Qeelin’s Founder and Creative Director Dennis Chan spoke at length about the importance of balancing inspirations from East and West traditions, mechanical ingenuity with aesthetic design, and delivering impactful brand stories through strategic boutique locations and celebrity ambassadors during his keynote “Inter/Section of Cultures: The Qeelin Perspective of East Meets West”. Dennis shared, “That’s why I think the Qeelin design is not only about Chinese design. The inspiration is from China, but we still take on a lot of inspiration from around the world.”

Discussing “Tradition, Innovation and Beyond: Journey to the Inter/Section with Alan Chan“, Alan Chan, Founder & Creative Director of Alan Chan Design Company, believes in “Never go for references, but study it if you want to create something.  All your energy, memory, creatives should be from your history and experience of life”, which is integral to his design philosophy.   

Olivier Segura, Managing Director of L’ECOLE Asia Pacific in his power talk on “Preserving the Art of High Jewellery”, talked about how intersection is interwoven with the school’s mission. “Intersection is there to support and help young talents who have a promising future. Intersection for us also means to create bridges between our experts and our audience.” 

Speakers from The Mainland and Overseas :

On his power talk “Tea Beyond the Cup: Sustainable Solutions Across Industries”, Calvin Sio, Founder, CEO and Director of Sustainability at Zence Object Technology and Chazence, delved into how traditional Eastern wisdom and philosophy guides his brand’s transformative and sustainable vision for innovating tea waste. “By providing valuable insights for the application of bio-based materials, we can integrate Eastern wisdom to create an environmentally friendly material system. This approach is rooted in the Eastern philosophy of harmony between humans and nature, ecological balance, and the fusion of wisdom and culture.”

Dong Gong, Founder and Design Principal at Vector Architects, and Foreign Member at the French Academy of Architecture, offered a profound perspective on “integrating new design with existing structures” during his presentation on “New into Old”. “By respecting existing layouts and natural elements, we enhance living environments, blending the old with the new. This approach not only preserves the historical and emotional significance of the sites but also improves the quality of daily life.”

Alexis Georgacopoulos, Director at University of Art and Design Lausanne (ECAL), and Rama Gheerawo, Director of The Helen Hamlyn Centre for Design at the Royal College of Art, discussed the necessity of leveraging design to solve the challenges faced by society during their panel of “Empowering Tomorrow’s Designers”. Gheerawo said, “Design bridges ideas to implementation and impact, turning concepts into real-world solutions. This unique ability justifies giving design a critical role in multidisciplinary discussions.”

Lex Pott, Founder and Designer of studio LEX POTT, and Frank Chou, Founder & Creative Director of Frank Chou Design Studio, in their panel “Craftsmanship, Culture, and Challenges: Exploring the Evolving Landscape of Design in East & West”, Pott shared that “traditionally, when we speak about craft, it’s a skill. It’s something that you train and that you master. But I think from a design point of view, it’s also about intellect, culture, tradition, so many of those ingredients.”

“Global Online Premier” – the full versions of KODW 2024 Forum, will be available on bodw+ and social media channels on July 17 for free.

-End- 

Contact 

For further enquiries and requests for interviews, please contact:

Occasions PR & Marketing Ltd. 

Laurent Ungerer and Nathalie Crinière presented a Paris Notre-Dame poster, designed by Ungerer, to the Hong Kong Design Centre. Professor Eric Yim, Chairman of the Hong Kong Design Centre, was on hand to receive the gift. The poster showcases the brand-new identity of Notre-Dame, created by Ungerer, and premiered globally at the KODW 2024 forum.
Laurent Ungerer and Nathalie Crinière presented a Paris Notre-Dame poster, designed by Ungerer, to the Hong Kong Design Centre. Professor Eric Yim, Chairman of the Hong Kong Design Centre, was on hand to receive the gift. The poster showcases the brand-new identity of Notre-Dame, created by Ungerer, and premiered globally at the KODW 2024 forum.

Source

United Airlines is texting travelers live weather maps to explain flight delays

0

A United Airlines plane seen at the gate at Chicago OHare International airport (ORD)on October 5, 2020 in Chicago, Illinois.

Daniel Slim | AFP | Getty Images

Don’t believe bad weather is the reason your United Airlines flight is delayed? The airline will now text you live radar maps to prove it.

Even when it’s bright and sunny, a thunderstorm hundreds of miles away can still disrupt your flight.

The Federal Aviation Administration can issue ground stops, which prevent traffic from departing for a certain airport so that those facilities don’t get overloaded.

Bad weather can also force flights not only to depart late but to take longer routes to avoid it, delaying arriving aircraft. Thunderstorms can crop up suddenly and are harder to predict than larger systems, such as winter storms and hurricanes. Delays can occasionally cascade, leaving planes and crews out of position.

United said on Wednesday that it is using generative artificial intelligence to send travelers links to live radar maps, provided by flight-tracking platform FlightAware, as well as other flight disruption causes, such as mechanical issues or airport congestion.

Its technology will be put to the test around the July Fourth holiday period, during which United expects to set a record with 5 million people flying between June 28 through July 8, up 7% from last year.

In the first half of the year, nearly 942,000 U.S. airline flights, or 21.4%, arrived late, slightly better than the 22.3% of flights that arrived late in the year-earlier period, according to FlightAware.

Don’t miss these insights from CNBC PRO

An inside look at how the FAA and airlines deal with bad weather

Source