Latest news with #Franks
AU Financial Review
2 hours ago
- Entertainment
- AU Financial Review
‘It broke me to my core': the making of Camilla Franks
What to wear to lunch with Camilla Franks, Australia's – and perhaps the world's – kaftan queen? Franks's motto, and her clothing business's tagline, is 'Colour the world in Camilla'. As someone who occasionally adds navy into her wardrobe for fun, I'm never going to be able to match Franks's colourful energy. And in truth, not many can. Franks, who calls everyone 'darling' and 'babe' and immediately envelops me in an embrace, is actually wearing black herself, but hers is somehow riotously beautiful and a little wild. It's her own design, naturally, and new season: a black kimono-style wrap dress embroidered and embellished with Turkish inspired designs. Nearly every finger holds a ring, and she's wearing multiple earrings and necklaces.
Newsweek
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Woman Asks Husband To Pick TV for Bedroom—Unprepared for What She Finds
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 couple online have proven that, when it comes to design choices, bigger is better—even if it is a bit shocking at first. When Lauryn Windham Franks, 35, decided to delegate the task of choosing a new television for their master bedroom to her husband, Colin, she anticipated a practical, perhaps aesthetically pleasing, choice. What she got instead was a screen so massive that it instantly became a sensation on TikTok, showcasing the disparity in their design visions. Franks told Newsweek about the hilariously large TV her husband brought home when she left him to his devices. "I left my husband in charge of picking the TV for our master bedroom because I was tired of making decisions," Franks captioned the video. "I was thinking more of a pretty frame TV, but okay." Photos from Lauryn Windham Franks' TikTok video of her husband laying watching television, left; and their child in front of the massive screen, right. Photos from Lauryn Windham Franks' TikTok video of her husband laying watching television, left; and their child in front of the massive screen, right. @laurynfranks/TikTok The couple, who have been documenting the construction of their custom home in Texas on TikTok, reached a point of decision fatigue. As Franks said, Colin had handled the structural elements of their home build, while she focused on the design. Given her lack of interest in researching televisions, though, Franks "truthfully didn't care what he bought—just like he didn't care what kind of furniture I bought." The surprise, however, was monumental—it was a 98-inch screen. Franks said that the video was "all in good fun," adding that "I laughed when I saw him, and told him I'm now really excited to watch my shows." The sheer scale of the TV resonated with countless TikTok users, many of whom shared their own experiences with gigantic televisions and surprising design choices. "'It's not that big,' he says as the TV takes up half the wall and is taller than your child," one person wrote. Another user highlighted the common issue of TV size versus viewing distance: "Y'all are also absurdly close to the screen for its size." Some related to the compromises, or surrenders, in shared living spaces. "We have a 75 [inch] in our room and 86 [inch] in the living room," one parent wrote. "'Bluey' is on them. I don't get to watch my shows anymore." The power dynamics of significant purchases also came to light: "My husband knows exactly what day before my period starts that I will agree to spend more money," a commenter shared. "That's how he knew what day we needed to go to Best Buy for this same reason—he admitted he knows 'the signs.'" Franks' TikTok is an entertaining look into their home-building process, from start to finish, including decorating, managing their eight acres, balancing work and family life, and Disney vacations. The unexpected master bedroom TV choice is just the latest chapter in the relatable journey of creating their dream home.
Gulf Today
5 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Gulf rail projects paving the way for connected, sustainable future
The Gulf region is witnessing an unprecedented rail boom that is setting the stage for a new era of regional integration and sustainable economic growth, according to David Franks, Managing Director of Keolis MHI. He said the transformation is being powered by multi-billion-dollar investments in modern infrastructure across the GCC. Franks noted that projects such as Etihad Rail in the UAE, the Hafeet Rail connection with Oman, and Saudi Arabia's Landbridge are central to a broader vision of regional connectivity. These initiatives, he added, are designed to link cities, ports, and economic hubs through a seamless network. The 2,177-kilometre GCC Railway project, he explained, reflects the shared ambition of Gulf states to create an integrated transport ecosystem. He highlighted the role of rail in achieving environmental sustainability, calling it one of the most energy-efficient and low-emission modes of transport. Franks pointed out that the region has already begun pioneering efforts in this area, most notably with Saudi Arabia's trial of a hydrogen-powered train, the first of its kind in the Middle East. Franks stressed that the ongoing transformation in Gulf transportation is underpinned by advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, predictive maintenance systems, smart ticketing, and real-time passenger updates. These innovations, he said, are enhancing passenger experience while improving efficiency, safety, and operational excellence. He also emphasized Keolis MHI's commitment to this evolution, noting the company's global operating experience across four continents. Franks explained that Keolis MHI is actively transferring international best practices to the region, ensuring that safety, innovation, and quality are embedded into every aspect of operation. Beyond operations, Franks said Keolis MHI is also contributing to the development of smart, connected cities. This includes investing in local talent, supporting Emiratisation and localisation initiatives, and improving last-mile connectivity to enhance quality of life and foster inclusive transport systems. He underscored the importance of strong public-private partnerships in delivering long-term success for large-scale rail infrastructure. According to Franks, close collaboration between governments and operators is critical to ensure that projects are delivered efficiently, resiliently, and in line with public expectations. Franks outlined key milestones in the region's rail agenda. He noted that the second phase of Etihad Rail commenced operations in February 2023, extending the network to 900 kilometres. While freight services are operational, passenger services are still under planning. He also referenced the Hafeet Rail project—a $3 billion joint venture between Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala—which aims to link Abu Dhabi with the port city of Sohar via a 303-kilometre line. On the Saudi front, Franks said the Landbridge Project consists of a 950-kilometre freight line between Jeddah and Riyadh, and an additional 115-kilometre track connecting Dammam to Jubail. This network, he stated, will significantly boost east-west freight movement across the Kingdom. Franks also hailed Saudi Arabia's hydrogen train pilot, conducted in 2024, as a regional milestone that signals a broader shift toward clean and sustainable transport technologies. Looking ahead, he said the GCC Railway Network, slated for completion by 2030, will redefine regional mobility by streamlining trade and facilitating smooth cross-border passenger movement across Gulf nations. Franks concluded by stating that the region's rail renaissance goes beyond infrastructure development. It represents a global model for modern, sustainable, and tech-enabled transport systems built on innovation, collaboration, and a forward-looking vision. In June, Keolis MHI participated at Middle East Rail 2025, the region's premier transport event, to share its expertise in shaping the future of sustainable, intelligent, and passenger-centric urban rail. With decades of experience operating some of the world's most complex and advanced rail networks, Keolis MHI has become a trusted partner for rail authorities and owners seeking operational excellence. Its global track record in delivering safe, reliable, and innovative rail services has positioned the company as the operator of choice for urban rail projects across the Middle East and beyond. In April, Keolis MHI successfully hosted its annual Sustainability Week under the banner of the 'Keolis MHI Way', reinforcing its commitment to environmental guardianship and people engagement. The week-long initiative united employees, partners, and stakeholders through webinars, on-ground activities, and eco-conscious competitions, spotlighting the company's role as a catalyst for sustainable urban mobility in line with the UAE's 2031 Vision and Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050.
Entrepreneur
08-07-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Gen Z Needs Office Etiquette Coaches, Managers Say
Return-to-office mandates imply that workers have been in the office before. But what happens if you're not "returning" per se, and have never actually worked in an office? You get a big culture clash, according to many Bay Area managers who spoke to The San Francisco Standard. Wearing inappropriate clothes, leaving messes, loudly chatting with friends during work hours — these are just some of the issues managers say first-time in-office Gen Z employees are creating. And to find a solution to these persistent workplace problems, many office managers are hiring etiquette coaches to teach the basics of being a considerate coworker. Related: Gen Z Talent Will Walk Away — Unless You Try These 6 Strategies Rosalinda Randall, an etiquette coach, told The Standard that calls to her office are up 50% over the last two months. She charges up to $2,500 for 90-minute workshops that cover things you'd expect — like appropriate dress codes, how to respectfully address managers, and office kitchen cleanliness — and some things you wouldn't, like reminding people they should shower regularly. Randall explained that a tech firm hired her because two new hires hadn't bathed or changed their shirts for weeks. "They didn't want to deal with it, so they hired me," she explained. Another common issue is less scent-oriented, but just as off-putting: constant questioning. Melissa Franks, founder of On Call COO, told The Standard she received many calls from managers asking for advice when dealing with Gen Z employees who wouldn't just do what they were asked to do, but instead questioned every decision and directive. Franks said her advice is to take time to give employees the big picture, so they can see how this task fits into the overall operation. "Give them more context about why things are done a certain way, and you'll get more respect," she said. Related: These Gen Z Managers Are Doing Things Very Differently — and It Seems to Be Paying Off Franks also encourages managers to create what amounts to an etiquette guide that should be given to all employees that eliminates any gray areas when it comes to what "casual Friday" looks like or what is an appropriate email sign-off is or what is expected of them in meetings. The complaints go both ways, with Gen Zers feeling like their Millennials and Gen X bosses emailing after hours and not respecting their need for work-life balance. However, many would probably agree that having an annoying job is a good problem to have. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York reports that the unemployment rate for recent college graduates hit 5.8 percent—the highest reading since 2021.
Wales Online
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Human names top the trend for cats and dogs in 2025
Human names top the trend for cats and dogs in 2025 People are now naming their pets Kevin, Gary and Barbara The research showed a healthy sense of humour amongst pet owners in the UK People names are dominating the trend for cats and dogs in 2025 with pets now often named Dennis, Kevin, Gary, Dorothy or Barbara. Pet Health Club has listed the top 10 dog and cat names, as pet ownership gets set to soar over the summer months. The team at Pet Health Club analysed data from across their nationwide network of over 800 vet practices, finding that pet parents are opting for the name Bella most frequently for dogs, whilst Luna is the number one name for cats. Vets found a definite trend for celebrity-inspired names, from Doja and Elvis to Drake, Shakira and Kendall, as well as the full monikers of Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, Harry Styles and Miley Cyrus. Traditionally 'human' names also remain a firm favourite, with some surprising options. Names like Dennis, Kevin, Gary, Dorothy and Barbara all featured among the top 10 for dogs and cats. Characters from movies, books, video games and TV shows were also well represented with the top 20 including Loki, Thor, Leia, Bilbo, Frodo, Zelda, Batman, Hermione, Chewbacca, Hulk and even Pikachu. The research also showed a healthy sense of humour amongst pet owners in the UK, with witty names like Albus Dumbledog, Artemus Growl, Sherlock Bones and Bartholomeow appearing on the list. Holly Mckinley, Senior Vet at Pet Health Club, said: 'We often see a surge in new puppies and kittens being welcomed into families over the summer months, with people having more time to spend at home with a new pet and the weather being better. 'As vets who work with millions of much-loved pets all year round, we've heard our fair share of unusual names, but it was still interesting to see a few weird and wonderful ones crop up in our analysis. Even our eyebrows raise when we welcome a Bulldozer or Mozzarella into the examination room. 'What's lovely to see is that pet names are really important to owners – it becomes an extension of their personality and can be part of the bonding process with their puppy or kitten. After all, learning their name is a very important stage of a pet's early training and socialisation, and makes them feel like they belong in your 'pack'. Article continues below 'We're looking forward to welcoming lots more Franks, Dojas and Chewbaccas into the Pet Health Club over the coming months.' The top 10 names for puppies and kittens across the UK: Top 10 puppy names 2025 Top 10 kitten names 2025 Bella Luna Poppy Bella Luna Milo Teddy Poppy Daisy Charlie Lola Willow Milo Daisy Alfie Coco Buddy Molly Ruby Tilly The top 10 'human' names for puppies and kittens across the UK: Top 10 'human' puppy names 2025 Top 10 'human' kitten names 2025 Ralph Ralph Frank Frank Norman Kevin Dennis Dennis Kevin Norman Roger Gary Gary Roger Dorothy Dorothy Geoffrey Geoffrey Barbara Barbara The top 10 celebrity inspired names for puppies and kittens across the UK: Top 10 'celeb' puppy names 2025 Top 10 'celeb' kitten names 2025 Elvis Elvis Miley Ed Snoop Miley Taylor Taylor Drake Snoop Ed Kylie Kylie Doja Shakira Shakira Cher Cher Kendall Angelina The top 10 character-inspired names for puppies and kittens across the UK: Top 10 puppy names 2025 Top 10 kitten names 2025 Loki Loki Thor Thor Leia Ash Ash Leia Bilbo Zelda Frodo Bilbo Zelda Yoda Yoda Frodo Rey Article continues below Batman Wanda
