Latest news with #PlanetFitness
NBC News
a day ago
- NBC News
Friend concerned for Alaska man Tony Kronos, who vanished in March: 'Where's Tony?'
'Where's Tony?' It's a question Asa Chandler hasn't stopped asking since he heard his old friend Tony Kronos was missing. The 40-year-old was last seen at his residence in the 1600 block of Eleonora Street in Eagle River, Alaska, on March 6, 2025. That was three months ago — and the people in Tony's circle haven't stopped pushing for answers since. Asa Chandler met Tony when they were teenagers. Back then, before he legally changed his name to Tony Kronos, Asa knew him as Josh Kronbach. They grew up in Eagle River — about 20 minutes north of Anchorage. 'I think it's around 50,000 people live here in Eagle River,' Asa said. 'So it's not like that small of a town, but you also quite often run into people that you went to school with.' 'He was always a small, little goofball,' Asa said. 'One of the things we'd all do is go out even further north than where we live to a big sand dunes recreational area by a river and have bonfire parties.' As they got older, Tony got into bodybuilding. 'He was, I think, in 2015, named Mr. Alaska,' Asa said. 'So he went from being a real small guy to being real buff.' 'It was a transformation,' Asa said. When Tony wasn't working out, he was working as a longshoreman. 'Basically loading the ships with cars and whatever is, you know, coming in and going out of Alaska.' According to Asa, Tony had recently purchased property in Hawaii and was planning on moving there. Asa would never have imagined hearing the news that his old friend Tony was missing. But in March 2025, that's what happened. Asa says he saw a Facebook post by a mutual friend asking if anybody had seen or heard from Tony. No one had. 'And then I saw a few other people posted about it over the next couple days,' he said. Asa told Dateline what he and Tony's other friends were able to put together about the day Tony was last seen – Thursday, March 6. 'A neighbor saw him pull into his garage that last time that he was ever seen and he had been seen, you know, just before that at the Planet Fitness gym,' he said. Tony's two cars, keys, wallet, and phone were all located at his home, according to Asa. 'By the third week, some friends had organized a meet-up to pass out posters,' Asa said, adding that he showed up to that. 'From there, we all just started making our own efforts to find him.' 'I came up with 'Where's Tony?'' Asa said of the campaign to spread awareness about his friend. He made a video of the staff at a restaurant he frequents posing that question. 'I put that together, and then the next day, I had a bunch of people that wanted to be in on that. So they sent me videos of them saying 'Where's Tony?' and pretty soon it turned from like a 30-second video to two and a half minutes of all these people saying, 'Where's Tony?'' 'We had a big fundraiser,' Asa said. 'So we raised somewhere between 15 and 20 thousand dollars. That's supposed to be reward money.' Asa also reached out to Dateline about Tony's disappearance. He said he wondered if he was missing, would he want people out there pushing for him. 'I just started trying to put myself in his shoes, and hoping someday he will come back and know that some of the old friendships he had panned out — there were people who cared,' Asa said. So Asa worked to bring greater attention to Tony's story. He says it was a major topic of discussion in town for the first couple of weeks after Tony vanished because friends and family were doing radio, TV, and local news interviews. Plus, missing person posters had been hung all around the community. 'But over the last month, it's kind of — kind of dropped off, you know, which – eventually that was probably bound to happen,' Asa said. NBC affiliate KTUU is part of Alaska's News Source, which has been covering Tony's case since March. On April 9, they reported that the Anchorage Police Department and the FBI were searching a property located directly behind Tony's home. Alaska's News Source reported that online municipal property records showed that the home officers were searching is owned by an Anchorage police officer. On April 11, they reported that after three days of searching, officers left the residence. 'Police have not confirmed that activity at the duplex has anything to do with Kronos' disappearance,' reporter Lauren Maxwell wrote. By the end of April, a lieutenant with the Anchorage Police Department sat down for an interview with Alaska's News Source. 'The detectives are working different angles on every piece of information that they've gathered,' Lieutenant Denielle Hrovat, of APD's Violent Crimes Unit, told Alaska's News Source. 'We are not releasing a lot of information, because that could hinder the furtherance of this case.' Hrovat would not comment on why that residence was searched for three days or what, if anything, was found. Dateline reached out to Christopher Barraza, the Deputy Director of the Anchorage Police Department Community Relations Unit, to see if an officer would be available to discuss the case. Barraza told Dateline they are not doing interviews at this time and that 'this case is currently still being investigated.' Barraza stated that the April press release on their website is the most recent update on Tony's case. 'At this time, there is no new information to release,' the release stated. 'However, we want to emphasize that our detectives, in partnership with the FBI, are working diligently and around the clock to bring Tony home.' The release explained that investigations like this one take time. 'All evidence must be carefully analyzed, items must undergo forensic testing, surveillance footage is being reviewed, search warrants executed, and witnesses interviewed,' it stated. 'These steps are critical to ensuring a thorough and accurate investigation.' The Anchorage Police Department ended the release by stating that their top priorities remain: 'the safe return of Tony and holding those responsible accountable.' Tony is 5'9' and weighs about 185 lbs., with hazel eyes. He is 40 years old, has multiple tattoos on his chest and stomach, and has been known to dye his hair various bright colors. The Anchorage Police Department encourages anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Tony Kronos to contact them on the dedicated tip line at 907-786-8999.
Economic Times
a day ago
- Health
- Economic Times
As COVID cases rise again, the top three things you must do to strengthen your immunity
Which foods actually help strengthen your immune system? Live Events Can exercise really make your body fight infections better? Why does sleep matter so much when it comes to immunity? FAQs (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel As the number of COVID cases rises, it's more important than ever to have a strong immune system . Vaccines and good hygiene are important, but the choices you make every day, like what you eat, how you move, and how well you sleep, are also very to COVID-19, strengthening the immune system is especially important as flu season draws to a close. Keeping oneself healthy is essential during this maintain a healthy lifestyle , one must lead a balanced lifestyle that incorporates physical activity, healthy eating, and sound sleeping habits. These easy things you do every day can help your body stay strong and fight off infections, as per a report by UVM to the Cleveland Clinic, maintaining a healthy diet is essential for a robust immune system. It suggests getting your daily intake of vitamins and minerals from food sources rather than relying on supplements unless absolutely required by a A, C, D, E, iron, and zinc are important minerals and vitamins that strengthen the immune fruits, leafy greens, strawberries, fatty fish, almonds, spinach, broccoli, lean chicken, shellfish, lean meats, yogurt, and chickpeas are all good sources of these body's antibacterial cells will proliferate and spread if you exercise frequently. You can use Peloton, Planet Fitness, or DownDog to work out at home if you don't want to go to the gym. You might run or walk outside as well. You may find excellent at-home fitness tutorials on enough sleep to avoid getting sick. Turn off electronics an hour before bed, keep the room cool, close the shades, use a white noise machine, or get an app for your phone that makes white noise. Going to bed and getting up at about the same time every day will help you sleep better, as per a report by UVM necessarily. Most nutrients you require, such as vitamins A, C, D, and zinc, can be found in common foods such as fish, leafy greens, and to the fundamentals: eat whole foods, exercise daily, and prioritize a good night's sleep. It is all about being balanced.
Time of India
a day ago
- Health
- Time of India
As COVID cases rise again, the top three things you must do to strengthen your immunity
As the number of COVID cases rises, it's more important than ever to have a strong immune system . Vaccines and good hygiene are important, but the choices you make every day, like what you eat, how you move, and how well you sleep, are also very important. Due to COVID-19, strengthening the immune system is especially important as flu season draws to a close. Keeping oneself healthy is essential during this time. To maintain a healthy lifestyle , one must lead a balanced lifestyle that incorporates physical activity, healthy eating, and sound sleeping habits. These easy things you do every day can help your body stay strong and fight off infections, as per a report by UVM Health. ALSO READ: New TikTok diet trend sparks backlash as experts warn it's fueling a dangerous new wave of harmful eating habits Which foods actually help strengthen your immune system? According to the Cleveland Clinic, maintaining a healthy diet is essential for a robust immune system. It suggests getting your daily intake of vitamins and minerals from food sources rather than relying on supplements unless absolutely required by a doctor. Live Events Vitamins A, C, D, E, iron, and zinc are important minerals and vitamins that strengthen the immune system. Citrus fruits, leafy greens, strawberries, fatty fish, almonds, spinach, broccoli, lean chicken, shellfish, lean meats, yogurt, and chickpeas are all good sources of these nutrients. Can exercise really make your body fight infections better? Your body's antibacterial cells will proliferate and spread if you exercise frequently. You can use Peloton, Planet Fitness, or DownDog to work out at home if you don't want to go to the gym. You might run or walk outside as well. You may find excellent at-home fitness tutorials on YouTube. Why does sleep matter so much when it comes to immunity? Get enough sleep to avoid getting sick. Turn off electronics an hour before bed, keep the room cool, close the shades, use a white noise machine, or get an app for your phone that makes white noise. Going to bed and getting up at about the same time every day will help you sleep better, as per a report by UVM Health. FAQs Do I need supplements to stay healthy during the COVID season? Not necessarily. Most nutrients you require, such as vitamins A, C, D, and zinc, can be found in common foods such as fish, leafy greens, and citrus. What is the simplest way to increase immunity at home? Stick to the fundamentals: eat whole foods, exercise daily, and prioritize a good night's sleep. It is all about being balanced.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Canadian wildfire smoke stopping your workout? Planet Fitness opens doors this weekend
With Canadian wildfire smoke causing poor air quality across Michigan, Planet Fitness locations are opening to anyone wanting to exercise for free now through close of business on Sunday, June 8, the company said. 'With recent alerts due to the Canadian wildfires, we want to make sure those who normally exercise outdoors have a safe option to avoid unhealthy air quality levels,' said Keith Bertram, president of EPIC Fitness Group, one of the state's Planet Fitness franchisees. EPIC Fitness Group, Impact Fitness, Cambridge Investors and Red Mountain Companies own and operate more than 80 Planet Fitness locations in Michigan. 'Part of a healthy lifestyle is making fitness a part of your routine. We hope this free access gives everyone the opportunity to exercise safely and continue their healthy habits," Bertram said. Visitors will have no obligation to join Planet Fitness to take advantage of the opportunity, the company said. According to AirNow, which provides air quality measurements, nearly all of Michigan has "moderate" air quality as of 7 a.m. June 6. Moderate air quality means air quality is acceptable. However, there may be a risk for some people, particularly those who are unusually sensitive to air pollution. Readings across Michigan at 7 a.m. included: Kalamazoo: 101 Grand Rapids: 88 Bay City: 85 Sault Ste. Marie: 80 Lansing: 80 Flint: 72 Houghton Lake: 70 Marquette: 70 Houghton: 61 In southeast Michigan, including the Detroit area, air quality was worse at 7 a.m. — in the "unhealthy for sensitive groups" range. Members of sensitive groups may experience health effects. The general public is less likely to be affected, according to the AQI. Stations in Detroit and Ypsilanti measured readings of 118 at 7 a.m. Ann Arbor had a 129 reading and Manchester was at 139 on the AQI. There are over 80 Planet Fitness gyms located in Michigan. For address and hours of operations, visit All Planet Fitness locations feature cardio and strength equipment pieces, plate loaded strength equipment and functional training, as well as amenities such as full-service locker rooms, tanning, massage chairs and HydroMassage beds. Founded in 1992 in Dover, New Hampshire, Planet Fitness is one of the largest franchisors and operators of fitness centers in the United States by number of members and locations, the company said, with approximately 20.6 million members and more than 2,741 clubs in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, Mexico, Australia and Spain. More than 90% of Planet Fitness stores are owned and operated by independent business men and women. This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Planet Fitness opens doors to non-members avoiding Canadian wildfire smoke
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
PLNT Q1 Earnings Call: Brand Evolution and Pricing Drive Member Growth Amid Tariff Concerns
Inclusive gym franchise company (NYSE:PLNT) missed Wall Street's revenue expectations in Q1 CY2025, but sales rose 11.5% year on year to $276.7 million. Its non-GAAP EPS of $0.59 per share was 4.1% below analysts' consensus estimates. Is now the time to buy PLNT? Find out in our full research report (it's free). Revenue: $276.7 million (11.5% year-on-year growth) Adjusted EPS: $0.59 vs analyst expectations of $0.62 (4.1% miss) Operating Margin: 28.6%, up from 26.5% in the same quarter last year Same-Store Sales rose 6.1% year on year, in line with the same quarter last year Market Capitalization: $8.83 billion Planet Fitness' first quarter performance was shaped by increased member engagement, strategic marketing, and ongoing product enhancements. CEO Colleen Keating highlighted the successful rollout of a refreshed brand campaign, noting that member visits per month reached their highest level in five years. The company also saw continued growth in its higher-priced Black Card membership tier, supported by targeted promotions and a narrowed pricing gap with the Classic Card. Management attributed the quarter's results to a balanced approach of rate increases and net membership growth, with Gen Z emerging as the fastest-growing demographic. CFO Jay Stasz pointed to effective cost control and a continued focus on franchisee unit economics as key operational themes. Looking ahead, management expects its strategic imperatives—brand repositioning, enhanced club formats, and expanded strength equipment—to support steady growth despite macroeconomic uncertainty and potential tariff impacts. CEO Colleen Keating said, 'We remain steadfastly focused on unit economics,' emphasizing that tariff exposure is being managed through vendor negotiations and alternative sourcing. The rollout of click-to-cancel functionality, required by new regulations, is also expected to impact churn rates in the near term but could improve join conversion over time. With new club openings weighted toward the back half of the year and ongoing tests of premium amenities, Planet Fitness believes its value proposition remains resilient, particularly among younger consumers. Management attributed the quarter's results to targeted marketing, club format enhancements, and a mix of price-driven and membership-led growth, while flagging tariff uncertainty and a regulatory change as operational headwinds. Black Card Membership Penetration: The proportion of members in the higher-priced Black Card tier rose to 65%, driven by successful first-month-free promotions and a narrowed price gap versus the Classic Card. This shift boosted average revenue per member and reflects consumer willingness to pay for added value. Brand Campaign and Member Engagement: The refreshed 'We Are All Strong' campaign improved brand perception and increased purchase intent from both former and prospective members. Management reported a 30%+ rejoin rate and the highest member club utilization in five years, indicating stronger engagement and retention. Club Format and Equipment Mix: Nearly 1,800 clubs now feature a more balanced mix of strength and cardio equipment, a change made in response to member feedback. Franchisees have overwhelmingly opted for this new layout, and management expects the transition to be completed across all clubs by year-end. Tariff Mitigation Efforts: The company is working closely with vendors to offset the impact of new tariffs on equipment. CFO Jay Stasz detailed efforts to leverage scale, negotiate with manufacturers, and explore alternative sourcing to protect franchisee economics, stating that current tariff levels do not materially impact 2025 targets. Regulatory Change—Click-to-Cancel: The mandated rollout of online membership cancellation is underway. While expected to increase churn initially, early tests showed it can also lift join conversion rates, potentially offsetting negative effects over time. Planet Fitness expects growth to be driven by ongoing brand investment, expanded club amenities, and careful management of external risks such as tariffs and regulatory changes. Brand and Product Investments: Management is prioritizing data-driven marketing campaigns, new club layouts, and expanded strength offerings to attract new members and boost retention. The High School Summer Pass program is also set to drive seasonal member engagement and longer-term conversion. Tariff and Cost Management: The company is proactively addressing tariff-related cost pressures by negotiating with vendors, sourcing equipment from alternative markets, and leveraging its purchasing scale. While current tariffs are not expected to affect 2025 guidance, management remains vigilant about potential future increases. Regulatory and Churn Impact: The full implementation of click-to-cancel functionality is expected to cause a short-term uptick in membership cancellations, but management believes improved member experience and transparency will help sustain growth. Early tests suggest increased join rates may counterbalance higher churn. In the coming quarters, the StockStory team will watch (1) the impact of the nationwide click-to-cancel rollout on both churn and join rates, (2) the pace and profitability of new club openings in the U.S. and international markets, and (3) the effectiveness of brand and product innovations—such as expanded strength equipment and premium Black Card amenities—in driving member growth and retention. Ongoing tariff developments and franchisee sentiment will also be important markers to monitor. Planet Fitness currently trades at a forward P/E ratio of 34.8×. At this valuation, is it a buy or sell post earnings? The answer lies in our full research report (it's free). The market surged in 2024 and reached record highs after Donald Trump's presidential victory in November, but questions about new economic policies are adding much uncertainty for 2025. While the crowd speculates what might happen next, we're homing in on the companies that can succeed regardless of the political or macroeconomic environment. Put yourself in the driver's seat and build a durable portfolio by checking out our Top 9 Market-Beating Stocks. This is a curated list of our High Quality stocks that have generated a market-beating return of 183% over the last five years (as of March 31st 2025). Stocks that made our list in 2020 include now familiar names such as Nvidia (+1,545% between March 2020 and March 2025) as well as under-the-radar businesses like the once-micro-cap company Tecnoglass (+1,754% five-year return). Find your next big winner with StockStory today. Errore nel recupero dei dati Effettua l'accesso per consultare il tuo portafoglio Errore nel recupero dei dati Errore nel recupero dei dati Errore nel recupero dei dati Errore nel recupero dei dati
