Latest news with #Zest
Fox News
3 days ago
- Sport
- Fox News
Fisherman lands enormous 56-pound almaco jack, breaking state record
An angler just broke a new fishing record in the Tarheel State. Warren Poirier of Charles City, Virginia, caught a 56-pound, 4.8-ounce almaco jack in the state of North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's (NCDEQ) Division of Marine Fisheries recently certified the new record for the fish. Poirier was fishing at the "The Rocks" in the Outer Banks along with Captain James Bowman, according to an NCDEQ press release. The fish struck Poirier's Zest brand jig as he was battling the amaco jack, also known as a seriola rivoliana, for 45 minutes. Poirier also used his Shimano Trevala rod and Saltist 5000 reel with an 80-pound braid, the release noted. The fish stretched 46 inches fork length, from the tip of the nose to the fork in the tail, with a 31-inch girth. Almaco jacks have long bodies with a dusky color and light amber/olive stripes down their sides, according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries. North Carolina's previous almaco jack record was recorded in 2024 at 33 pounds and 12.6 ounces, according to the NCDEQ press release. Poirier weighed his fish at the Teach's Lair Marina in Hatteras. Almaco jacks can grow up to a little over 5 feet long and up to 136 pounds, according to NOAA Fisheries. They can be found in the Atlantic, Gulf of America, Pacific Islands and occasionally Southern California.
Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Simple exercise to do at your desk that can prevent dementia symptoms
Dementia is a group of related symptoms associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning, with different types and numerous causes. Age is the biggest risk factor for dementia Scientists have pinpointed three straightforward exercises that can be performed while seated at a desk, which may help lower the risk of dementia. Figures from May 2024 indicate that nearly one million Brits are affected by the condition. Dementia encompasses a spectrum of symptoms linked to the progressive decline of brain function, with various types and multiple causes. Age stands as the most significant risk factor for dementia, a concern amplified by Britain's growing elderly population. Other contributing factors include genetic predisposition, chronic health issues, lifestyle choices such as alcohol consumption or smoking - and aspects related to sex and gender. With projections estimating that around 1.4 million individuals will be living with dementia by 2040, taking steps to prevent this debilitating disease is more crucial than ever. How can I prevent it? Cognitive reserve is another element influencing dementia risk. It represents the brain's capacity to continue functioning despite the presence of the disease. explains that cognitive reserve is 'built up by keeping the brain active throughout one's life'. reports Bristol Live. The organisation states: "The more cognitive reserve a person has, the longer it takes for any diseases in their brain to cause problems with everyday tasks. This means people with a larger cognitive reserve can delay getting dementia symptoms. People with a smaller cognitive reserve are at a higher risk of getting dementia in their lifetime." The study suggests three contributing factors to a diminishing cognitive reserve: early termination of education, lack of job complexity, and social withdrawal. Hence, maintaining mental agility is of the essence. Three exercises Experts at Zest have identified a trio of exercises aimed at enhancing your brain's sharpness: 1. Opposite thumb ladders - Initiate by touching thumb and pinky together on one hand, and thumb and index finger on the other, then simultaneously move thumbs in opposing directions along the fingers. 2. 1-4 alternation - Display "one" with the index finger of one hand, and "four" with the opposite hand, then rapidly alternate between them. 3. Opposite circles - Simultaneously draw clockwise circles with one hand and counter clockwise with the other. A Zest specialist commented: "Research shows that combining mental challenge with movement builds cognitive reserve aka your brain's resilience buffer against aging and disease. It's not a cure, but it may help protect your brain over time. "These three exercises can reduce your dementia risk," they added. The NHS lists the most prevalent dementia symptoms as: Key symptoms of dementia outlined by the NHS include a loss of interest in familiar hobbies, issues with behavioural or emotional management, challenges faced in social settings, and disinterest in relationships and social activities. According to the NHS website, "People with dementia can lose interest in their usual activities, and may have problems managing their behaviour or emotions. They may also find social situations difficult and lose interest in relationships and socialising. "Aspects of their personality may change, and they may lose empathy (understanding and compassion). A person with dementia may see or hear things that other people do not (hallucinations and hearing voices). "Because people with dementia may lose the ability to remember events, or not fully understand their environment or situations, it can seem as if they're not telling the truth or are wilfully ignoring problems."
The Age
20-06-2025
- Business
- The Age
Sydney's best dog-friendly venues now serve ‘puppitini' cocktails and pooch-only high teas
Eating out Pet-friendly 'We're BYO human': Cafes are embracing four-legged friends like never before. Previous SlideNext Slide The lunch crowd at St Peters cafe Baba G's are more enthusiastic than most – salivating over the menu, tearing into beef hamburgers and taking off to run laps of the artificial turf. While dog-friendly cafes, bars and restaurants have become commonplace in Sydney, Baba G's is one of a growing number catering specifically to the canine experience. The converted warehouse cafe, opened in December, features a dog-friendly menu with dishes such as Korean fried chicken, cheese pie and strawberry doughnuts. There's a fenced indoor play area stocked with toys, an open-air grooming salon and the capacity to host dog birthday parties (balloon arches optional). 'At our business, dogs come first and humans come second,' says owner-operator Sam Ayoub. But humans are looked after, too. Specialty coffee from Melbourne roastery Zest and whisked-to-order matcha lattes are served in handmade ceramics, alongside a selection of sandwiches and Son of a Baker pastries. At Enfield cafe Paw Haus, it's 'BYO human', says manager Annabelle Harper. Paw Haus opened in October and, like Baba G's, offers grooming services, play areas and food options for both dogs and people. In Sydney, where dogs outnumber children in almost half of the city's council areas, the concept of pet-friendly third spaces is popular among dog owners and enthusiasts alike. Harper says her venue attracts many customers who don't own a pet of their own, but want to spend time playing with free-roaming dogs or feeding fish waffles to the rescue kittens (available for adoption in a separate room). The new spaces join pubs such as The Carrington in Surry Hills and the Courthouse in Newtown, which serve dedicated dog menus. Puppy Tail Cafe in Lane Cove and Cafe Bones in Leichhardt have set up shop beside dog parks, and dogs are now treated to a complimentary 'puppitini' (water in a coupe glass, garnished with prosciutto) at Bar Demo in Enmore. 'When it comes to allowing dogs in cafes and other hospitality venues, it's changing for the better,' Ayoub says. 'Dogs are family, but you only get maybe 10 to 12 years with them, so why not make the most of that time?' 10 of the best dog-friendly venues in Sydney Baba G's Cafe & Grooming Salon, St Peter s Baba G's was born out of Ayoub's love for his Afghan hound Baba Ganoush, and a desire to create a calm, cage-free grooming salon for dogs of all sizes. Dogs are the focus, but Baba G's also functions as an excellent standalone cafe with quality pastries, matcha and specialty coffee. Good to know: Sydney Park is within walking distance. Paw Haus by Pet Us, Enfield A two-storey terrace with an off-leash dog cafe, room to cuddle rescue cats, and a grooming salon. Burgers and wraps are prepared in a food truck in the outdoor garden, and dogs are treated to human-grade treats including salmon and chia cookies and blueberry yoghurt smoothies. Good to know: There's a separate quiet room for timid dogs. 244 Liverpool Road, Enfield, Doglateria, Bondi Junction Take your dog on an ice-cream date at this Bondi gelateria, which serves Italian gelato for humans and lactose-free, human-grade 'dog-lato' ($6.50 per scoop) in flavours such as peanut butter and honey, strawberry and banana, and mango and carrot. Good to know: Want to step it up a notch? Take on the 'doggy high tea' serving two dogs for $42. Puppy Tail Cafe, Lane Cove Dog nutritionist Naoko Okamoto serves organic lamb mince, vegie waffles and 'doggie lattes' at this small Lane Cove outpost, cleverly positioned beside Blackman Park off-leash dog park. For humans, there are Japanese-inspired dishes including tonkatsu pork sandos and onigiri. Good to know: Blackman Park dog park is divided into two separate areas for small and large dogs. Lloyd Rees Drive, Lane Cove West, Cafe Bones, Leichhardt Cafe Bones is located within the Hawthorne Canal Reserve off-leash park, serving solid, simple cafe fare such as toasted sandwiches, bagels and traditional Aussie spiders. It's a great place to meet fellow owners, but it can be difficult to find a car park on weekends. Good to know: Cafe Bones bakes bacon and cheese 'puppfins' for dogs. 1 Canal Road, Leichhardt, Forrester's, Surry Hills Fancy a roast dinner? Forrester's pub serves a $35 roast every night with an oversized Yorkshire pudding, dubbed 'the big Yorkie'. Dogs can now get in on the action with non-alcoholic dog-friendly beers and the $10 'pawkie': a bowl of kibble served with gravy and a miniature Yorkshire pudding. Good to know: Pawkies are free between 6pm and 8pm on Tuesdays for 'yappy hour'. Bar Demo, Enmore Sip martinis with your dog at Bar Demo, the new vinyl-spinning cocktail bar on Enmore Road from two ex-Double Deuce bartenders. The 'puppitini' is complimentary and contains no alcohol, just water garnished with prosciutto (healthier alternatives to come). Good to know: Try the frozen gin-based house martini, or one of 12 natural wines by the glass. 85 Enmore Road, Newtown, The Carrington, Surry Hills Charming corner pub The Carrington is a contender for the best dog-friendly pub in Sydney, welcoming furry friends both inside and outside. The menu includes steak and vegies or beef tartare for dogs, and pub classics (plus some great pastas) for humans. Good to know: Dogs must be on their best behaviour: 'If you bark, to the park!'
Sydney Morning Herald
20-06-2025
- Business
- Sydney Morning Herald
Sydney's best dog-friendly venues now serve ‘puppitini' cocktails and pooch-only high teas
Eating out Pet-friendly 'We're BYO human': Cafes are embracing four-legged friends like never before. Previous SlideNext Slide The lunch crowd at St Peters cafe Baba G's are more enthusiastic than most – salivating over the menu, tearing into beef hamburgers and taking off to run laps of the artificial turf. While dog-friendly cafes, bars and restaurants have become commonplace in Sydney, Baba G's is one of a growing number catering specifically to the canine experience. The converted warehouse cafe, opened in December, features a dog-friendly menu with dishes such as Korean fried chicken, cheese pie and strawberry doughnuts. There's a fenced indoor play area stocked with toys, an open-air grooming salon and the capacity to host dog birthday parties (balloon arches optional). 'At our business, dogs come first and humans come second,' says owner-operator Sam Ayoub. But humans are looked after, too. Specialty coffee from Melbourne roastery Zest and whisked-to-order matcha lattes are served in handmade ceramics, alongside a selection of sandwiches and Son of a Baker pastries. At Enfield cafe Paw Haus, it's 'BYO human', says manager Annabelle Harper. Paw Haus opened in October and, like Baba G's, offers grooming services, play areas and food options for both dogs and people. In Sydney, where dogs outnumber children in almost half of the city's council areas, the concept of pet-friendly third spaces is popular among dog owners and enthusiasts alike. Harper says her venue attracts many customers who don't own a pet of their own, but want to spend time playing with free-roaming dogs or feeding fish waffles to the rescue kittens (available for adoption in a separate room). The new spaces join pubs such as The Carrington in Surry Hills and the Courthouse in Newtown, which serve dedicated dog menus. Puppy Tail Cafe in Lane Cove and Cafe Bones in Leichhardt have set up shop beside dog parks, and dogs are now treated to a complimentary 'puppitini' (water in a coupe glass, garnished with prosciutto) at Bar Demo in Enmore. 'When it comes to allowing dogs in cafes and other hospitality venues, it's changing for the better,' Ayoub says. 'Dogs are family, but you only get maybe 10 to 12 years with them, so why not make the most of that time?' 10 of the best dog-friendly venues in Sydney Baba G's Cafe & Grooming Salon, St Peter s Baba G's was born out of Ayoub's love for his Afghan hound Baba Ganoush, and a desire to create a calm, cage-free grooming salon for dogs of all sizes. Dogs are the focus, but Baba G's also functions as an excellent standalone cafe with quality pastries, matcha and specialty coffee. Good to know: Sydney Park is within walking distance. Paw Haus by Pet Us, Enfield A two-storey terrace with an off-leash dog cafe, room to cuddle rescue cats, and a grooming salon. Burgers and wraps are prepared in a food truck in the outdoor garden, and dogs are treated to human-grade treats including salmon and chia cookies and blueberry yoghurt smoothies. Good to know: There's a separate quiet room for timid dogs. 244 Liverpool Road, Enfield, Doglateria, Bondi Junction Take your dog on an ice-cream date at this Bondi gelateria, which serves Italian gelato for humans and lactose-free, human-grade 'dog-lato' ($6.50 per scoop) in flavours such as peanut butter and honey, strawberry and banana, and mango and carrot. Good to know: Want to step it up a notch? Take on the 'doggy high tea' serving two dogs for $42. Puppy Tail Cafe, Lane Cove Dog nutritionist Naoko Okamoto serves organic lamb mince, vegie waffles and 'doggie lattes' at this small Lane Cove outpost, cleverly positioned beside Blackman Park off-leash dog park. For humans, there are Japanese-inspired dishes including tonkatsu pork sandos and onigiri. Good to know: Blackman Park dog park is divided into two separate areas for small and large dogs. Lloyd Rees Drive, Lane Cove West, Cafe Bones, Leichhardt Cafe Bones is located within the Hawthorne Canal Reserve off-leash park, serving solid, simple cafe fare such as toasted sandwiches, bagels and traditional Aussie spiders. It's a great place to meet fellow owners, but it can be difficult to find a car park on weekends. Good to know: Cafe Bones bakes bacon and cheese 'puppfins' for dogs. 1 Canal Road, Leichhardt, Forrester's, Surry Hills Fancy a roast dinner? Forrester's pub serves a $35 roast every night with an oversized Yorkshire pudding, dubbed 'the big Yorkie'. Dogs can now get in on the action with non-alcoholic dog-friendly beers and the $10 'pawkie': a bowl of kibble served with gravy and a miniature Yorkshire pudding. Good to know: Pawkies are free between 6pm and 8pm on Tuesdays for 'yappy hour'. Bar Demo, Enmore Sip martinis with your dog at Bar Demo, the new vinyl-spinning cocktail bar on Enmore Road from two ex-Double Deuce bartenders. The 'puppitini' is complimentary and contains no alcohol, just water garnished with prosciutto (healthier alternatives to come). Good to know: Try the frozen gin-based house martini, or one of 12 natural wines by the glass. 85 Enmore Road, Newtown, The Carrington, Surry Hills Charming corner pub The Carrington is a contender for the best dog-friendly pub in Sydney, welcoming furry friends both inside and outside. The menu includes steak and vegies or beef tartare for dogs, and pub classics (plus some great pastas) for humans. Good to know: Dogs must be on their best behaviour: 'If you bark, to the park!'
Hospitality Net
06-06-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Sofitel reinvents the hotel uniform and unveils an exclusive collaboration with the French designer Cordelia de Castellane
This new collection, embodying the highest standards of French savoir-faire, will be rolled out across Sofitel hotels throughout 2026. Comprising 45 pieces, the Vestiaire has been thoughtfully designed to suit all professions and destinations, while expressing an elegant, fluid, and boldly contemporary style — a reflection of the renaissance of Accor's most quintessentially French luxury brand. Empowering 25,000 employees to embody the French Zest Sofitel and Cordelia de Castellane have teamed up to create a new closet for all employees at the brand's 120-plus hotels worldwide. With her experience of the most prestigious French luxury houses, Cordelia brings a touch of modernity and sophistication to this collection, while preserving the finest standards of French craftsmanship. Conceived as a celebration of the brand's hotel teams - 25,000 employees worldwide - and the culture of personalized service inherited from the French art of hospitality, this collaboration embodies the very essence of French elegance. With its flowing, resolutely Parisian cuts, accessories and unostentatious elegance, it breaks with the monotony often associated with traditional uniforms, offering instead a bold and authentic expression of French chic. The partnership marks a key milestone in Sofitel's ongoing renaissance, as the brand continues its global expansion with 32 new openings planned over the next three years. All of these properties embody the Sofitel spirit, blending French zest with local cultural richness, a commitment symbolized by the 'Cultural Link', the iconic logo creating a bridge between world's cultures. The new Vestiaire features the graphic Sofitel logo in a collection of exclusive prints, transforming Sofitel's visual signature into a luxurious monogram. A high-end, modular and evolving Vestiaire Designed with flexibility in mind, the Sofitel wardrobe introduces a fresh fashion-forward approach tailored to every role and destination. Under the artistic direction of Cordelia de Castellane, the collection seamlessly blends timeless silhouettes with practical needs, offering a variety of noble fabrics, textures, and color palettes suitable for both city hotels and resorts. Each piece has been crafted using flexible and durable materials — internationally tested across pilot hotels — to meet the everyday needs of hotel staff. The wardrobe adapts to all body types, roles, and climates, ensuring both comfort and elegance. In line with Sofitel's CSR commitments, each uniform is made from high-quality materials built to withstand daily demands while remaining effortlessly elegant, thanks to refined details and impeccable finishes. This wardrobe also reflects Sofitel's dedication to responsible luxury. Developed in partnership with Paris Good Fashion, the initiative ensures every step of production respects principles of sustainability, repairability, and recyclability — reducing environmental impact and contributing to more responsible resource management. Cordelia de Castellane, shaping the creative universe of Sofitel Vestiaire The inspiration underpinning this new collection draws directly from the unique creative world of Cordelia de Castellane, a designer whose work is marked by a fusion of tradition and modernity. Her vision of luxury combines timeless elegance with creative audacity, subtly blending classic and contemporary elements. The Sofitel Vestiaire is much more than a uniform: it's a manifesto. It's a tribute to our teams, who are the first to embody the renaissance of Sofitel. It reflects the joy of embracing a brand, the pride of being its ambassador, and the desire to wear our values in silk, knit, or cotton. We want this wardrobe to be emotionally resonant, exacting and refined, but also effortlessly chic. That's why we needed a visionary. This partnership with Cordelia de Castellane is the meeting of two visions of luxury, united by a shared passion for exceptional design. Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery and Emblems For me, Sofitel is a madeleine de Proust. It brings back childhood memories, iconic hotels, and a very specific vision of French luxury. Sofitel is more than a hotel brand — it's a way of life, a natural elegance paired with a deep openness to the world. Paris was a major inspiration for this collection — because Paris means effortless chic, cultural richness, precision tailoring, and that uniquely bold creativity. I wanted to imagine a wardrobe that expresses this Parisian sophistication, but also the warmth of hospitality and the pride of representing a house. These are garments designed to last, to move with the body, and to make every team member feel beautiful, free, and proud, adds Cordelia de Castellane. About Accor, a world-leading hospitality group Accor is a world-leading hospitality group offering stays and experiences across more than 110 countries with over 5,600 hotels and resorts, 10,000 bars & restaurants, wellness facilities and flexible workspaces. The Group has one of the industry's most diverse hospitality ecosystems, encompassing around 45 hotel brands from luxury to economy, as well as Lifestyle with Ennismore. ALL, the booking platform and loyalty program embodies the Accor promise during and beyond the hotel stay and gives its members access to unique experiences. Accor is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity, and inclusivity. Accor's mission is reflected in the Group's purpose: Pioneering the art of responsible hospitality, connecting cultures, with heartfelt care. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France. Included in the CAC 40 index, the Group is publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States. For more information, please visit or follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok.
