Latest news with #Banana
Newsweek
2 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Newsweek
Dog Saved From Horrific Past Finds a Home—Her Reaction Says It All
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A pit bull named Banana is at the center of a viral TikTok video that has left animal lovers heartbroken and furious. The footage, shared by dog rescuer @mjfambro, shows the injured dog called Banana being led into a shelter on a leash. She is covered in scratches and clearly shaken. The June 2 video has racked up more than 485,000 views and nearly 60,000 likes, with the caption: "Here is your reminder to never give a dog away for free and do your best to vet people when rehoming, because Banana paid the price." Newsweek reached out to @mjfambro for comment via TikTok. We could not verify the details of the case. Viewers were quick to express their anger and sorrow in the comments. "May the people that did this get the karma they deserve," one wrote. "Breaks my heart knowing what she went through." Another comment read: "People who just give away their pets without proper vetting should be held responsible for the crimes as well." More videos posted by the rescuer show Banana recovering in care, with suggestions she may have been used as a bait dog—a term used for animals forced into dogfighting rings to train more-aggressive dogs. Stock image: A person pets a sad pit bull. Stock image: A person pets a sad pit bull. Erik Gonzalez/iStock / Getty Images Plus What Is a Bait Dog? The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says that bait dogs are often used in illegal street dogfighting to provoke aggression in other canines. Despite being a felony in all 50 states, as well as in Washington D.C. and U.S. territories, dogfighting continues to operate in the shadows. The practice has a long and brutal history in the U.S., dating back to the 18th century. While some are lured in by the money—raids have uncovered hundreds of thousands of dollars, with single fights involving bets as high as $30,000—others are driven by ego or a desire to assert dominance, using dogs as a reflection of their own power. Tragically, those animals that lose often face severe abuse or death. Federal law imposes even-harsher penalties. Under the Animal Welfare Act—bolstered by Congress in 2007 and again in 2014—it is a felony to engage in interstate dogfighting activities or to attend a fight, especially when a child under 16 is present. Violators can face up to three years in prison and fines of $250,000. Despite whatever trauma Banana has endured, she hasn't lost faith in humanity. In another clip, the dog can be seen standing on grass wearing a blue T-shirt to cover her infected shoulder. The voice-over explains that Banana has so much to "unravel," but she is doing amazingly well, considering her circumstances.
Hans India
3 days ago
- Health
- Hans India
A Tasty Route to a Slimmer Waist
Smoothies aren't just a treat for your taste buds—they can also be powerful allies in your weight loss journey. Filled with essential nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants, smoothies help stimulate metabolism, reduce appetite, and improve digestion. Whether you crave something fruity, creamy, or green, these drinks offer a flavourful and effective way to achieve a leaner waistline. Why Smoothies Work for Weight Loss Unlike sugary beverages or processed snacks, smoothies can be crafted with wholesome ingredients that keep you full and energised. Low in calories but rich in nutrients, they support fat burning while helping you resist unhealthy cravings. Including smoothies in your daily diet can provide the consistency and nutrition needed to reach your fitness goals. Best Weight-Loss Smoothies for a Slim Waist 1. Pumpkin Spice Smoothie Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin purée, 1 cup unsweetened almond milk, ½ banana, pinch of cinnamon Benefits: This cozy smoothie supports fat loss with its metabolism-boosting cinnamon and fiber-rich pumpkin. It aids digestion and keeps you feeling satisfied. 2. Green Kale Detox Smoothie Ingredients: Fresh kale, flaxseeds, almond milk, lemon juice Benefits: Kale delivers fiber and antioxidants that aid digestion and fight inflammation. Omega-3s from flaxseeds further enhance fat-burning, making it a detox-friendly option. 3. Strawberry Banana Smoothie Ingredients: Strawberries, banana, chia seeds, unsweetened almond milk, dash of vanilla extract Benefits: Chia seeds offer fiber and omega-3s, which help curb hunger. Combined with antioxidant-rich strawberries, this smoothie makes a sweet, slimming treat. 4. Banana Oat Power Smoothie Ingredients: Banana, oats, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, almond butter Benefits: Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, this smoothie provides lasting energy, supports metabolism, and helps manage appetite effectively. 5. Mango Protein Smoothie Ingredients: Mango, coconut water, protein powder Benefits: A tropical delight rich in fiber and protein. Mango boosts digestion, while coconut water hydrates and protein powder aids muscle recovery and fat loss. 6. Cucumber-Watermelon Hydration Smoothie Ingredients: Cucumber, watermelon, cumin powder Benefits: Hydrating and refreshing, this blend flushes toxins and promotes digestion. Cumin supports gut health, aiding fat breakdown and waist reduction. Incorporating these smoothies into your daily routine can make your weight-loss journey more enjoyable and effective. With the right balance of fiber, protein, and natural ingredients, these drinks help sculpt a slimmer waist while keeping you energised and full.
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Repositioning Banana Republic to Regain Relevance
Banana Republic has been hanging in for decades, seeking to reconnect with consumers through a succession of repositionings, from the original safari style to serious careerwear to business casual, and as of late, some modern utility. The path has been bumpy, marked by store fleet downsizings, management changes, logo changes, category introductions of mixed success, and an inability to attract the next generation of shoppers. Two years ago, Banana Republic introduced a home assortment. A year later, the furniture was discontinued while soft home items, like towels, throws and pillows, continue to be sold. Two categories — BR Baby and BR Athletics — were introduced three years ago and didn't do much to move the needle. More from WWD Gabrielle Union Anchors Bold Banana Republic Dress With Textured Manolo Blahnik Raffia Mules at Proudly x JCPenney Launch Laura Harrier and Zac Posen Celebrate Denim and Dandyism in Bold Gap Studio Suit That Challenges Binaries Around Masculinity and Femininity 'The White Lotus' Actor Nicholas Duvernay Stars in Banana Republic's Spring 2025 Campaign Featuring Timeless Pieces, 'Buttery' Suede and More But the most recent changes — and they're ongoing — seem more consequential considering Gap Inc. chief executive officer Richard Dickson has been on the case since the abrupt departure of Sandra Stangl in May 2024, Banana's last president and CEO. 'We've gone back to the roots of the brand and what made it great to begin with — the Safari look but we're reestablishing the brand to convey a modern explorer and travel story. It's really starting to resonate,' Dickson told WWD. 'There is still work to do but we are continuing to strengthen the foundation with each passing quarter.' The White Lotus x Banana Republic limited-edition capsule collection, inspired by the HBO series 'The White Lotus,' helped spotlight the brand and convey its new approach. Dickson also said the search for a new Banana Republic president and CEO continues and that he has been meeting with 'some extraordinary talent.' There seems to be no rush given it's been over a year since there was someone in that role. Dickson, however, did acknowledge that he's been devoting a greater portion of his time to being more hands-on at Banana Republic. The game plan revolves around evoking what put Banana Republic on the map in the first place — a sense of adventure and exploration but through revised merchandising and marketing. There are early signs that recent efforts are bearing fruit, with Banana's comp sales flat last quarter, and total sales down 3 percent. 'The flat comp in the quarter is actually great progress,' Dickson said. 'We've leaned into classics, fits are resonating, men's is performing really well, and there is an improved performance in women's.' For all of 2024, Banana Republic reported comp sales were up a point, and total sales were flat. Recently, WWD met with Meena Anvary, Banana's head of marketing, at the Banana Republic flagship in SoHo, where she explained how the collection is evolving, how the brand positioning is being clarified, and how the 'storytelling' has become richer. She said Banana is going 'back to its roots but in a modern way,' utilizing higher-quality fabrics from Italy, exhibiting more texture such as jacquards and softer color palettes, and overall designing so the fashions convey 'a modern utility where practicality meets style.' 'We're seeing a natural evolution in both women's and men's offerings that reflects a modern sense of ease and timelessness,' Anvary said. 'For women, we've expanded our dress assortment to include airy silhouettes, coastal color palettes and a versatility that's great for any occasion this summer. 'For menswear, it's about modern utility with garments that are both purposeful and elevated. The pieces are crafted from premium fabric mills in Italy and tailored for comfort, style and versatility.' Modern utility, she explained, is about 'marrying function with form in a way that feels intentional and elevated. This is seen through subtle design cues, such as clean lines, convertible pieces, unexpected pockets, and epaulettes, which are a nod to our heritage in exploration, but through a contemporary lens. Epaulettes, specifically, are an homage to our past but reinterpreted in refined, luxurious fabrics. It's that balance of polish and practicality that defines our brand.' She was referring to Banana Republic's safari look which was most prominent in the 1980s. What also stood out at the flagship was an ample presentation of third-party brands, about 10 in all, including hats from Australia's Lack of Color; Castañer footwear, which is known for its craftsmanship and espadrilles; Hunza G swimwear, and cool eyewear from Le Specs, thereby taking a lifestyle merchandising approach. Also on display were candles, books and body washes. 'We highlight tastemakers in our campaigns and in-store activations, whether it be an artist, a chef or someone in entertainment to bring the world of Banana Republic to life in a multidimensional way,' Anvary said. For example, she said Banana Republic has been partnering with Jonah Reifer on events at the SoHo store and has featured Tyler Florence in Banana Republic's 'Art of Living' series on social. 'Our summer collection inspires a sense of ease and timelessness and takes people on our travels. We were inspired by Sicily and Majorca and went on a journey through charming towns, romantic coastlines,' Anvary said. The summer campaign, she added, has 'a local perspective highlighting a sense of curiosity and discovery our customer loves. 'We also tie into the quality and craft inherent to Italian culture and our linen, which is milled in Italy. In Majorca, we were inspired by the slower pace of life and connecting to nature, the rocky coastlines and fishing boats. Majorca inspired our original shell print for the season, while shirtdresses, leather sandals, and plenty of linen round out the uniform for summer travel.' She said Banana Republic is 'creating stories beyond the clothes themselves, and it lives across every detail, from the way a print is illustrated to the settings we choose for our campaigns. We tell an immersive story, infusing our campaign with the character and charm of our travels to create connection and a true sense of place. This summer's campaign is a perfect example. We shot in Majorca and Sicily, locations rich in character and culture. We engaged local Sicilians we met along the way and included them in our campaign, like Rosaria who has lived in an apartment above the town square in Cefalù for more than 40 years. She even shared her family's limoncello recipe with us.' Best of WWD Macy's Is Closing 66 Stores in 2025 — Here's the List, Live Updates Inside the Demise of Lord & Taylor COVID-19 Spikes Elevate Retail Concerns Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data
Daily Record
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Only true lager lovers can ace this beer quiz that tests your pint prowess
Do you think you know your ales from your amber, or you lager from your labeorphilist? Although the weather has taken a turn for the worse over the last week or so, people across the UK have enjoyed some sizzling sunshine in recent months, with this being Scotland's sunniest spring on record. And the Met Office has, tentatively, suggested that we might be in for a scorching summer too. So whether or not you managed to get out to a beer garden in May, there will, hopefully, be many more opportunities in the coming months. We all know there's nothing quite like catching up with your mates over a cold pint while sitting in the sun outside your favourite pub. And since that looks like it will be on the cards for many of us, you might want a chance to impress your pals with your pinting prowess. That can come in many forms; from recommending excellent new lagers to try, to being able to showcase your knowledge of the amber nectar. And if you are one who likes to impress others with your wisdom for all things beer, then we've got the quiz for you. Challenge yourself to ace this 10-question test and then use everything you've learned to flaunt the fun facts the next time you're out enjoying a cold one. Read on below to take on our quiz. Good luck! 1. Who said: 'In victory, you deserve beer, in defeat, you need it'? A) Napoleon B) Jack Hayworth C) William Wordsworth 2. Non-alcoholic beers typically contain as much alcohol as which type of fruit? A) Orange B) Banana C) Kiwi 3. Which popular brewer is largely credited with inventing the strain of yeast currently used in many lagers? A) Heineken B) Carlsberg C) Budweiser Budvar 4. What has research found to be used as an ingredient in beer brewed in Ancient China over 5,000 years ago? A) Sichuan peppercorn B) Star anise C) Job's tears 5. What is the oldest beer brand still being produced to this day? A) Weihenstephan B) Augustiner C) Duvel 6. In which year was the beer can introduced? A) 1925 B) 1930 C) 1935 7. When is International Beer Day? A) The last Friday of June (June 27, 2025) B) The first Friday of August (August 1, 2025) C) The first Saturday of September (September 6, 2025) 8. What does a labeorphilist collect? A) Beer labels B) Beer stamps C) Beer bottles 9. Which of these is not one of the four key ingredients of German beer, as ordered by the Reinheitsgebot? A) Sugar B) Yeast C) Water 10. Which country is the biggest consumer of beer per person? A) Czechia B) Germany C) Austria Answers
The Hindu
23-05-2025
- General
- The Hindu
Three-day organic mango and jackfruit mela at Lalbagh
A three-day 'Organic Mango and Jackfruit Fair' organised by the Horticulture Department in association with Jaivik Krishik Society was inaugurated on Friday. The mela has been organised at the Dr. M.H. Marigowda Auditorium in Lalbagh. 'The objective of this mela is to create awareness among the residents of Bengaluru about organic food and provide a good market to more than 1.5 lakh farmers who practise organic farming in the State. If the organic produce gets more demand, then more farmers will be encouraged to practise it. This will be good for the environment and will provide pure food the the public,' said Shamla Iqbal, principal secretary, Horticulture Department after inaugurating the mela. Miyazaki mango, Red Ivory mango, Banana mango and seedless jackfruit are some of the major attractions at the mela. Rangaswamy C, founder of Annapurneshwari Nursery in Shivamogga is the first to grow Miyazaki mangoes in the state and aims to introduce the fruit to the market through the event. The mela also showcases rare heritage mangoes right from Tipu Sultan's, Bada Bagh (300 year old garden). More than 85 varieties of mangoes and 60 varieties of jackfruit are available at the mela. The fruits are sourced from Hubballi, Chikkamagaluru, Mysuru and Tumakuru districts. Ms. Iqbal also noted that Jaivik Krishik Society has been successful in converting around 10,000 hectares into organic farming despite it proving to be hard to convince the farmers. She stated that the plan is to increase it to 30,000 hectares by next year. The mela will conclude on May 25.
