Category: All

Carnival Has Big Plans For Its Rival to Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay

January 3, 2023 Published by

TheStreet 

Royal Caribbean has changed the definition of what passengers expect on a cruise line private island.

Royal Caribbean Group (RCL) – Get Free Report changed the basic concept when it debuted the revised Perfect Day at CocoCay in May 2019. Previously, private islands were simply beaches with bars, and a barbecue that might offer a few extras (like a zip line) but the core experience was a beach.

The old model of cruise line private islands also required people to take tenders (small ships) to the island from their cruise ship. That was a slow process and some passengers got sick riding the smaller ships, especially on days when the seas were a little rough.

With its $250 million transformation of Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean added a pier so two of its Oasis-class ships could dock there at the same time. That ended the need for tenders, which was already a major improvement, but that was only the start.

The cruise line also added a huge pool (the largest in the Caribbean), an added fee waterpark, an extra-charge beach club, and multiple included dining options. Royal Caribbean basically took what was just a beach and made it an island destination where you could opt for a quiet beach experience or something else entirely.

Carnival Cruise Line (CCL) – Get Free Report has not really had an answer for CocoCay, which has become a highly-valued stop for Royal Caribbean. That’s going to change in 2023 and Carnival CEO Josh Weinstein made a telling comment about it during the cruise line’s fourth-quarter earnings call. 

Image source: Daniel Kline/TheStreet

Carnival Has Its Own Private Destination Planned

Carnival has not spoken much about its planned CocoCay rival, Grand Bahama Port (and it certainly has never drawn a direct line between its efforts and its rival’s).

“We broke ground at a new exclusive destination, Grand Bahama Port, which will be a game changer for Carnival Cruise Line, while, at the same time, benefiting, more than ever, from our existing private islands and unique port destinations, which captured 6 million visits from our guests,” Weinstein said.

The cruise line is calling the new project a “port destination.” (It’s not an island as it’s actually a sort of gateway to Grand Bahama. Guests could opt to spend the day at the new “port destination,” or simply pass through it on their way elsewhere.

The new project, which is being developed on the south side of Grand Bahamas, “will continue to serve as a gateway to Grand Bahama while also offering guests a uniquely Bahamian experience with many exciting features and amenities, along with business opportunities for the residents of Grand Bahama,” the cruise line said.

The port will be able to accommodate two Excel-class (Carnival’s largest) ships at a time.

“The cruise port itself will also feature an area designated as a nature reserve and an interior pool feature, along with many Bahamian-operated retail, food, and beverage options for guests to enjoy,” the cruise line shared. It will offer beach access and a pool.

Royal Caribbean Has Changes Planned Too

While CocoCay has already received $250 million in improvements, Royal Caribbean has decided to add even more. The company is adding an adults-only area to the private island.

“Hideaway Beach is under construction right now,” Royal Caribbean Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations Mark Tamis confirmed while speaking on Wonder of the Seas in March.

“There were a handful of decisions that we made during the pandemic to be smarter about that construction, specifically just the movement of some of the back-of-house functions. It’s going to be an amazing adult space for about 2,000 guests [opening in] mid-to late-2023,” he shared.

Royal Caribbean has not shared whether there will be an added cost for Hideaway Beach.

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You Need Shaker Bottles That Won’t Clump or Leak—These Are 15 of the Best Ones

January 3, 2023 Published by

Well+Good 

Shaker bottles are the unsung heroes of workout gear, making silky-smooth protein shakes and all kinds of pre- and post-workout drinks. But shaker bottles can be used beyond your gym bag. While oftentimes they are put to work shaking up protein drinks, they can also be used to mix matcha, incorporate collagen into your coffee, or even make salad dressings. But with hundreds of options floating around your gym and online, which ones are the best for your post-workout cooldown? Keep reading to find out.

Best shaker bottles at a glance:

Best overall: BlenderBottle Radian Shaker Cup ($20)
Best leak-proof: BlenderBottle SportMixer Shaker Bottle ($15)
Best electric: Voltrx Premium Electric Protein Shaker Bottle ($26)
Best insulated: Matrix Shaker Stainless Steel Blender Cup ($17)
Best for motivation: Performa Shaker Bottle ($16)
Best for on-the-go: BlenderBottle Shaker Bottle with Storage ($15)
Best glass: Ello Splendid Glass Shaker Bottle ($15)
Best design: Promixx Shaker Bottle ($13)
Best for everyday use: BlenderBottle, Mantra Glass Shaker Bottle ($15)
Best for easy cleaning: Helimix Vortex Blender Shaker Bottle ($22)
Best with a straw: Contigo Autoclose Shake & Go Tumbler ($18)
Best battery life: Blackube Electric Protein Shaker Bottles ($31)
Best for travel: ShakeSphere Tumbler ($20)
Best splurge: Ice Shaker Insulated Protein Mixing Cup ($35)
Best budget: BlenderBottle Classic V2 Shaker Bottle ($9)

What to look for in a shaker bottle

There are a few key qualities to look for in a shaker bottle. Most importantly, you’ll want one that does its job, creating smooth-as-can-be drinks without leaving powder residue or clumps.  “The blending mechanism of the bottle should be more than efficient at mixing the drink, removing clumps of powder, etc.,” says Noom fitness trainer Lauren K. Baker, MA, ATC-Ret.

You’ll also want one that’s easy to clean too, especially if you’re going to be using it every day. And for this, a stainless steel exterior or interior is best, according to Baker. “A higher quality shaker bottle is best made from stainless steel, as it is easier to clean, and does not absorb odors,” says Baker.  But other materials are good too. She added, “If you choose another type of shaker, such as plastic, be sure the plastic is eco-friendly and odor-free to drink from.” Additionally, look out for a bottle that’s leak-proof and shatter-resistant for less spill and better durability.

Any extra bells and whistles are up to you. Do you want a storage compartment for powder? Or a motivational saying to get you through a tough Peloton ride? It’s all a matter of personal preference at that point.

How we chose

In scouring the internet for the best shaker bottles, we looked at mixing ability, material, style, and fan approval rating. Scroll on for the 15 best shaker bottles that will whip up drinks of all kinds. No lumps allowed.

Best shaker bottles

BlenderBottle, Classic V2 Shaker Bottle — $9.00

Originally $10, now $9 

There’s a reason you’ve seen this BlenderBottle at the gym, in the office, and at all your friends’ houses. It’s no frills, but also promises no clumps and no leaks. Nearly 45,000 reviewers agree that this shaker bottle is a winner, thanks to its patented stainless steel wire whisk ball and wide mouth that ensures you’ll get all that $$$ protein powder actually in the bottle, and not all over your countertop. Best yet? Its ultra reasonable price tag.

Specs

Material: Plastic
Capacity: 20 oz.
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Mixer: Stainless steel wire whisk ball

Pros

Doesn’t leak

No clumps

Dishwasher safe

Stainless steel wire whisk blender ball

Cons

Lid is hard to close / doesn’t snap shut


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Ice Shaker, Insulated Protein Mixing Cup — $35.00

Shark Tank superfans may recognize this shaker bottle. The Ice Shaker’s key feature is its insulated stainless steel interior, which keeps it from retaining smells and also keeps your drink cold for 30 hours. It includes a twist-off agitator and an easy open pop top, which reviewers confirm doesn’t leak. As far as shaker bottles go though, it’s not cheap. But if you’re looking to invest in one that will last years, the Ice Shaker is a good bet.

Specs

Material: Stainless steel
Capacity: 26 oz.
Dishwasher Safe: No
Mixer: Stainless Detachable agitator

Pros

Stainless steel vacuum insulation

Fits in most cup holders

Sweat-free

Secure pop top lid

Doubles as a cocktail shaker, coffee mug, or smoothie cup

Cons

Some reviewers say it is hard to clean

Some reviewers experienced leaking


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BlenderBottle, SportMixer Shaker Bottle — $15.00

With over 12,000 5-star ratings on Amazon, BlenderBottle’s SportMixer Shaker Bottle is a clear favorite among gym-goers. Equipped with BlenderBottle’s signature whisk blending ball, the SportMixer breaks down protein and supplement powders with ease, without clumping—and most importantly, without leaking. One reviewer says it’s the best shaker bottle they’ve ever tried, writing “The big selling point for me is the screw top lid…No worries whatsoever of spilling or leaking.”

Specs

Material: Stainless Steel, Tritan plastic
Capacity: 28 oz.
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Mixer: Whisk blender ball

Pros

Carrying loop

Dishwasher safe

Leak proof twist-on cap

Odor resistant

Cons

Blender ball is noisy


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ShakeSphere, Tumbler — $20.00

Somehow (we don’t know how) ShakeSphere has designed a shaker bottle that doesn’t include a mixing ball or mesh grid to blend your clumpiest of supplements and even fruits with your liquid base. Bu that doesn’t mean it’s not good. “Believe the hype,” says one reviewer. “As soon as it arrived, I decided to put in the most clumping cocktail I could think of into this little guy.” The recipe? Whey protein, psyllium husk, peanut butter powder, and a banana. “Gave it a shake 15 times like in the video, and yep, absolutely no clumping.” You’ll pay for it though: ShakeSphere tumblers cost more than double the price of other plastic shaker bottles on this list.

Specs

Material: Plastic
Capacity: 24 oz.
Dishwasher Safe: No
Mixer: None, the capsule shape does the mixing

Pros

Easy to clean

Capsule shape blends protein powders without clumps

Leak proof silicone cap

Also purees soft fruit

Cons

Matte coating starts to chip after repeat use, according to reviews

Blend isn’t consistent, according to reviews


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Voltrx, Premium Electric Protein Shaker Bottle — $26.00

For the smoothest of smooth protein shakes, you might want to upgrade to an electric bottle. “This blender is so awesome—everyone at the gym asks me about it!” says one reviewer. “No more shaking like a maniac to get the protein powder to mix properly. Just push the button and let the blender do its thing for 30 seconds. When it stops you have a buttery smooth protein shake.” Other upsides: It’s quiet, lightweight, and comes in an array of colors.

Specs

Material: Infant grade Tritan
Capacity: 24 oz.
Dishwasher Safe: No
Mixer: Motorized vortex mixers

Pros

Delivers a smooth blend

Rechargeable

Long battery life

Durable

Cons

Loses power after excessive use, according to reviews


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Matrix, Shaker Stainless Steel Blender Cup — $17.00

This Matrix Blender Cup is designed stars double-walled insulation that’s perfect for keeping your pre and post-workout drinks icy cold. The carrying handle (that doesn’t clash with car cupholders, btw) makes it convenient for carrying while on the go, and the trusty, rubber-sealed flip cap helps minimize spills. “Love love love it!” Wrote one 5-star reviewer. “I drink a protein shake daily. I use sonic ice so I can munch on it on my way to work. This is perfect!” What’s more, the agitator built into the cup’s lid means you don’t need to worry about losing track of a blender ball—and it’s less noisy!

Specs

Material: Stainless steel, rubber
Capacity: 30 oz.
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Mixer: Agitator in the lid

Pros

Double-walled insulation keeps drinks cold

Convenient carrying handle

No separate blending accessories needed

Spill-proof lid

Smooth blend

Cons

May be too big for some car cupholders

Lid is hard to open, according to some reviews


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Performa, Shaker Bottle — $16.00

Originally $23, now $16

If you need a little motivation to get you moving in the morning, nab a 2-pack of these 20-ounce shaker bottles touting inspirational phrases like “rise & grind” and “I came to slay.” It comes with a whisk ball mixer, and is lightweight and leak proof, so you don’t have to be precious about giving it a good shake. “A+ for performance,” says one reviewer. “I was worried they would not stand up to the task, but they do a good job of mixing the powder without any residual residue on the inside walls of the bottle.”

Specs

Material: Plastic
Capacity: 20 oz.
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Mixer: Whisk ball

Pros

Dishwasher safe

Good value

Leak-free

Fits in most cup holders

Cons

Plastic is thin, according to reviews

Measurement lines are hard to see

No grip loop


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BlenderBottle, Shaker Bottle with Pill Organizer and Storage for Protein Powder — $15.00

How genius is this? BlenderBottle created this shaker bottle with a built-in supplement storage system. Use the interlocking jars with or without the bottle, for powders, pills, or a small post-workout snack. (It’s perfect for a handful of almonds.) “100% suggest,” says one reviewer. “The containers snap on very easily and are great for holding protein powder.”

Specs

Material: Polypropylene
Capacity: 22 oz.
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Mixer: Whisk ball

Pros

Built-in storage system for supplements and powders

Dishwasher safe

Loop handle

Cons

Hard to tell when the flip cap is securely closed, according to reviews


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Ello, Splendid Glass Shaker Bottle with Leak-Proof Lid — $15.00

The biggest downside of plastic shaker bottles is that, if not cleaned quickly and thoroughly, they can soak in the smells of previous protein shakes. I’ll-do-the-dishes-later types may want to upgrade to glass for just that reason. This Ello shaker bottle includes measurement marks as well as a silicone sleeve that’ll ensure you can grip it even with sweaty hands. And, best of all, no lingering smells. Take it from this reviewer: “If you are lazy/forgetful like me, and have ever left your protein bottle in the car overnight, you know how terrible the smell of old protein dregs can be,” they say. “I am pleased to report I have forgotten this bottle at my desk at work, come in the next morning, cleaned with dish soap and a bottle brush, and it retains absolutely zero smell. Finally!”

Specs

Material: Glass and silicone
Capacity: 20 oz.
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Mixer: Silicone shaker ball

Pros

Glass doesn’t hold onto the smell of different protein powders

Durable silicone case

Silicone shaker makes less noise

Dishwasher safe

Cons

Narrow opening makes hand washing difficult, according to reviews

Not travel friendly


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BlenderBottle, Radian Shaker Cup — $20.00

Originally $25, now $20 

No more room-temperature shakes! Thanks to this BlenderBottle cup’s double-wall vacuum insulation, you can count on your drink being cold for up to 24 hours. Reviewers (there are over 10,000 reviews on Amazon) use this insulated option to make drinks before heading to the gym, or to keep smoothies cold during a long commute. It includes a stainless steel whisk ball, and a twist-on cap with a leak-proof guarantee.

Specs

Material: Plastic, stainless steel
Capacity: 26 oz.
Dishwasher Safe: Only the lid
Mixer: Whisk ball

Pros

Double-wall vacuum insulation keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours

Twist on cap

Carrying loop

Fits in most car cup holders

Cons

Lid absorbs odor, according to some reviews


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Promixx, Shaker Bottle — $13.00

Shaker bottles, admittedly, aren’t the cutest cup in your cupboard, but this Promixx bottle gives the others a run for their money design-wise. Its shape is sleek, but more importantly it works well—with just a few shakes protein powder integrates into your base. Reviewers rave that it’s durable and easy to clean, both musts in a shaker bottle.

Specs

Material: Ecozen
Capacity: 24 oz.
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Mixer: Removable agitator in the lid

Pros

Dishwasher safe

Odor and stain resistant

Smooth and quiet shake

Carrying loop

Cons

Powder gets stuck around the edge of the lid, according to reviews


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Blackube, Electric Protein Shaker Bottles — $31.00

Extra picky about lumps? An electric shaker bottle, like this Blackube model, is the way to go. One click, 30 seconds, and voila! You’re left with no lumps, and an ultra silky texture. Bonus: It’s super easy to clean, unlike full-size blenders. Simply add soap and water, then give the button a push. “I absolutely love it,” says one reviewer. “Aside from being super cute, it blends my shakes better and with fewer clumps than the regular shaker type cups I used to use.”

Specs

Material: Plastic
Capacity: 24 oz.
Dishwasher Safe: Only the cup
Mixer: Built-in rechargeable motor

Pros

High speed motor blends without clumps

Long battery life

Clear measurement labels

Durable material

Odor resistant

Cons

Reviewers wish the motor was more powerful


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BlenderBottle, Mantra Glass Shaker Bottle for Protein Mixes — $15.00

Originally $20, now $15 

If you’re looking for a glass shaker bottle, this BlenderBottle one is a great option. It’s extremely versatile and chic, with a silicone cap and bottom that’ll grip to any surface, whether the floor of a yoga studio or your office desk. Reviewers love the detachable carry loop, which allows you to secure a keyring to the bottle, or latch the bottle to your gym bag. “This is the best blender bottle on the market!” says one reviewer. “My protein drink would stick to the plastic ones but it slides right down this thick glass one.”

Specs

Material: Glass
Capacity: 20 oz.
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Mixer: Whisk blender ball

Pros

Dishwasher safe

Odor-resistant glass

Durable silicone boot

Detachable carrying loop

Cons

Narrow opening


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Helimix, Vortex Blender Shaker Bottle — $22.00

Originally $25, now $22

If you think of a blending ball as just another thing to clean or misplace, consider the Helimix Vortex which uses a patented vortex blender design to give you a super smooth drink with just a few shapes. Made of shatter-proof and BPA-free plastic, the Vortex is extremely durable, dishwasher friendly, and won’t cling onto lingering smells. Over 10,000 reviews rave that it’s the best shaker bottle they’ve ever owned. “It does exactly what it claims to do, and does it well,” says one customer. “No clumps, period!”

Specs

Material: Tritan plastic
Capacity: 28 oz.
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Mixer: None, just the bottle’s vortex design

Pros

Dishwasher safe

No mixing accessories required

Shatter-proof and odor resistant material

Leak proof design

Cons

Lid is difficult to open, according to some reviewers


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Contigo, Autoclose Shake & Go Tumbler — $18.00

This tumbler is unassuming and elegant, something you wouldn’t be embarrassed to have on your desk. And no one would guess that it includes auto-close technology that allows you to shake up your protein drink without a single spill or leak. Simply remove the straw, which activates the spring-loaded trap door under the lid and seals it so you can shake to your heart’s content. It’s sweat- and shatter-resistant too. Win/win/win. No wonder 85 percent of reviewers give it a five-star rating.

Specs

Material: Plastic
Capacity: 20 oz.
Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Mixer: None

Pros

Auto-close technology helps prevent spills

Durable, double-walled construction

Includes a drinking straw

Dishwasher safe

Cons

Auto-shut lid is very fragile, according to reviews

Not sweat-proof


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[World] NFL player critical after collapsing on pitch

January 3, 2023 Published by

BBC News world 

Getty Images
By Sam Cabral & Madeline Halpert
BBC News

Family members of American football star Damar Hamlin say they are “deeply moved” by fan support after the player suffered a cardiac arrest during a primetime US National Football League game.

The Buffalo Bills player remains in critical condition after spending the night in a hospital intensive care unit, according to his team.

Hamlin collapsed after colliding with an opponent during the Monday match.

Fans have rallied behind the player.

The collision happened during the first quarter of the NFL game and Hamlin received on-field medical attention for more than 30 minutes before being taken to a local hospital. His team later confirmed the player had suffered a cardiac arrest and said that his heartbeat was restored on the field on Monday.

The NFL, which suspended the game between the Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals for the night, announced on Tuesday its commissioner, Roger Goodell, had spoken with both teams and informed them that the game would not resume this week.

The NFL has made “no decision” on whether the game will resume at a later date, the league said.

In their first remarks since the incident, Hamlin’s family said they wanted to share their “sincere gratitude for the love and support” from fans, including through donations to a toy drive he had launched, according to the statement shared by the NFL on Tuesday.

“Your generosity and compassion mean the world to us,” they said.

The NFL Players Association – a labour union representing the athletes – said that they were focused on “the health of our brother, Damar Hamlin”, adding that they would ensure both Bills and Bengals players receive support during this time.

Why do some top athletes suffer cardiac arrest?Donations for Damar Hamlin toy drive skyrocket

The on-field emergency sparked an outpouring of support for Hamlin and brought attention back to the dangerous nature of America’s most popular sport as the NFL season approaches its climactic play-off stages.

Hamlin was tackling Bengals receiver Tee Higgins in the stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio, when Higgins’ helmet appeared to hit Hamlin in the chest. After initially getting to his feet, he fell on his back.

Players from both teams gathered around Hamlin as emergency medical staff gave CPR and oxygen. Several were seen visibly distressed, with many kneeling to pray and some in tears.

Television coverage repeatedly broke away from the scene on the field, while the crowd in Cincinnati remained silent during the ordeal.

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Watch: LeBron James reacts to Damar Hamlin incident

NFL games are rarely suspended because of injury. Commentators said the fact that gameplay had stalled was a sign of the shocking and severe nature of the emergency.

The two teams are among the top Super Bowl contenders this year, with their head-to-head coming in the primetime Monday night slot in the penultimate week of the NFL’s regular season.

Hamlin, a native of McKees Rock, Pennsylvania, was drafted from the University of Pittsburgh by the Bills in 2021.

He has drawn praise for hosting annual Christmas toy drives in his hometown since before he was a paid athlete.

An online GoFundMe page for the toy drive was reshared after Hamlin collapsed on Monday and has raised over $4m (£3.3m).

The safety of American football has been much debated in recent years but usually over concussion rather than cardiac risks.

Many former NFL players have the the degenerative brain condition CTE which research has linked to repeated hits to the head.

USA Today Sports/Reuters

The game was suspended in the first quarter

Blunt trauma is common in contact sports, but it’s rare that it causes heart issues like this.

A direct hit to the chest can result in cardiac arrest. That’s when the heart stops beating properly and is unable to do its job of pumping blood around the body.

It’s different to a heart attack, which happens when blood supply to the heart muscle is cut off.

In Hamlin’s case, medics were able to quickly get his heart beating again. It’s not yet known what internal injuries he may have sustained from the incident and whether there has been any significant damage to his heart.

Good wishes for the stricken player have poured in and buildings across Cincinnati were lit up in blue on Monday evening, including Paycor Stadium where the incident occurred.

Basketball star LeBron James said: “It was a terrible thing to see and I wish nothing but the best for that kid.”

Bruce Sharpe, a Bills fan who was in the stadium when it happened, said it was “devastating”.

“Everything got dead silent,” he said. “We’re just praying that everything’s okay.”

Additional reporting by Michelle Roberts of BBC’s health team

 

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At Least Some Airlines Can Still Get Travelers To Their Destinations On Time

January 3, 2023 Published by

TheStreet 

Which airline had the fewest delays last year?

During the recently concluded holiday season, Southwest  (LUV) – Get Free Report got the sort of headlines no airline wants, as the carrier had to delay or cancel nearly half of its flights.

Flight status website FlightAware showed Southwest at the top of the list for both canceled and delayed flights, at one point canceling 940 of its flights and delaying 900, leaving hundreds of thousands of people temporarily stranded during the holiday season and messing up the plans of untold numbers of people.

The reasons for the delays were myriad, but many employees are blaming the new management for not spending enough to update the flight scheduling software or to hire enough employees to make things run smoothly.

But while the traveling public has placed its collective coal in Southwest’s stocking, it’s not been all bad news for the industry, as it turns out that there are a number of airlines that still know how to get people to their destinations on time. For the most part, anyway.

Which Airline Had The Fewest Delays Last Year?

Cirium, one of the aviation industry’s leading data and analytics firms, has released its rankings for the most on-time large airlines in North America last year, which the company has been compiling for the past 14 years.

Cirium defines on-time as arriving at a destination’s gate “under 15 minutes of the scheduled arrival time.”

Coming in at the number one position is Delta Airlines  (DAL) – Get Free Report, which arrived on time 84.1% of the time.

This is a turnaround for the airline, as it had a rocky start to 2022. According to the Department of Transportation, Delta flights were on time 80.7% for the first six months of last year. Delta’s CEO president Glen Hauenstein apologized for the delay and then made steps to correct performance, including shelving expansion plans, allowing more time for the boarding process, and making adjustments to pilots’ schedules, as noted by Travel Weekly. 

As a result of the changes, Delta rebounded to an 88.5% on-time performance last September.

Shutterstock

What Other Airlines Kept Delays To A Minimum?

Take note Southwest  (LUV) – Get Free Report: Delta was not the only airline that was able to keep delays and cancellations to a minimum. 

Alaska Airlines was ranked second, arriving on time 81.4% of the time. Up next was United Airlines at 81.26%.

American Airlines was at 78.77%, while Southwest stood at 74.68%. After that was Frontier at 68.99% and JetBlue at 67.13%, Allegiant at 66.49%, WestJet at 60.66%, and Air Canada at 55.56%.

The statistics used for the rankings cut off after December 15th, so it is possible that Southwest could have been even lower on the list if the entire calendar year was taken into consideration.

Cirium notes that 71.91% of North American flights arrived on time in 2022. 

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Jeffries wins more votes than McCarthy in first round of Speaker contest

January 3, 2023 Published by

Just In | The Hill 

Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (N.Y.), the incoming House Democratic leader, won nine more votes than House Republican leader Rep. Kevin McCarthy (Calif.) in Tuesday’s first ballot vote for Speaker.

Jeffries won 212 votes in the first ballot to just 203 for McCarthy, but that doesn’t mean he’ll become Speaker.

Neither Jeffries nor McCarthy secured the majority of votes necessary to secure the Speakership, or 218 ballots with all members of the House present and voting.

The Speaker election now kicks immediately into a second vote, giving McCarthy another chance to secure a majority.

The process will continue until a nominee snags the needed majority of votes. 

It’s the first time in a century that the Speaker election has needed multiple rounds of voting, notching another historic moment in an unprecedented midterm cycle. 

Nineteen Republicans voted against McCarthy, with 10 votes going to Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), a signal of rifts within the party as it takes power in the lower chamber.  

Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) secured six votes, and GOP Reps. Jim Banks (Ind.), Lee Zeldin (N.Y.) and Byron Donalds (Fl.) each received one vote. No members voted “present” or were absent.

Jordan in a dramatic speech ahead of the second ballot vote urged GOP lawmakers to support McCarthy’s bid for the Speakership.

Republicans in the new Congress control a slim majority of 222 seats — a margin that has proved a challenge for McCarthy as he jockeys for the Speakership, with little room to lose any votes from his own party.

Democrats control 212 seats, plus a vacant seat left by the death of Rep. Donald McEachin (D-Va.).

​House, Hakeem Jeffries, House speaker, Kevin McCarthy, Speaker of the House, Speakership, Speakership vote Read More 

Fly business class to Europe for as low as $1,641

January 3, 2023 Published by

The Points Guy 

Maybe you’ve been dreaming of a trip to Paris — or perhaps Prague or Zurich. Visiting these European cities can be expensive, though, especially if you don’t want to sit in economy for an hourslong flight.

However, you can fly from the U.S. to Europe in business class for as little as $1,641 — and you have a lot of choices. Many business-class flights to major tourist destinations like London, Berlin, Copenhagen and Dublin are marked down.

The travel dates for these flights primarily fall from January through November, excluding August, but travel dates vary by route.

There’s a lot of flexibility with this deal but book your flights quickly, as it likely won’t last long.

Prague’s Old Town Square. PAULINE LEWIS/GETTY IMAGES

Deal basics

Airlines: Aer Lingus, LOT, TAP Air Portugal, Turkish Airlines and United Airlines.
Routes: Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, Newark, New York, San Francisco, Washington and other U.S. cities have discounted flights to various destinations in Europe.
How to book: Search through Google Flights to find your best available dates and then book directly with the airline of your choice.
Travel dates: Generally from January through November, excluding August. Dates vary by route.
Book by: Within the next two days.

Kudos to Scott’s Cheap Flights for finding this deal. For $49 a year, the site’s Premium membership provides discounts of up to 90% and includes a 14-day free trial. The Elite membership also highlights premium, business-class and first-class deals.

Sample flights

Many major U.S. cities such as New York, Chicago, Boston and Los Angeles have a great deal of availability to tons of destinations in Europe, such as London, Paris, Prague, Berlin and Rome. Of all the airlines offering discounted business-class flights, we found that TAP had the most deals.

Here are some standout flights:

TAP: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), starting at $1,641.
TAP: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Zurich Airport (ZRH), starting at $1,834 (includes a layover in Lisbon, Portugal).
TAP: BOS to Paris-Orly Airport (ORY), starting at $1,842 (includes a layover in Lisbon).
TAP: Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Nice Cote d’Azur Airport (NCE), starting at $1,835 (includes a layover in Lisbon).
TAP: Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Munich Airport (MUC), starting at $2,031 (includes a layover in Lisbon).
TAP: O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to Prague Airport (PRG), starting at $2,508 (includes a layover in Lisbon).
Condor: Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) to ZRH, starting at $2,695 (includes a layover in Frankfurt).

We recommend finding your ideal dates through Google Flights and then booking your flights directly on the airline’s website since airlines are more reliable in the event your flight faces a delay, cancellation or booking change.

For a July 10 flight from Minneapolis to Zurich, the Condor flight is the cheapest available business-class option on Google Flights — many of the other options cost upward of $4,000.

GOOGLE.COM/FLIGHTS

Condor also offers a return flight from Zurich on July 17 which would keep the fare at around $2,700. Both flights to and from Zurich have layovers in Frankfurt.

GOOGLE.COM/FLIGHTS

Sometimes Google Flights shows different prices compared to the prices displayed on airlines’ websites due to third-party booking options. In this case, Google Flights shows two other third-party booking options that are around the same cost or more expensive than the fare on Condor’s website.

GOOGLE.COM/FLIGHTS

Condor’s business class comes with a variety of benefits such as priority check-in and lie-flat seats. The business-class fare also includes checked luggage so you don’t have to worry about paying extra fees.

CONDOR.COM

Passengers flying in business class can select a meal from a gourmet menu that includes the choice of several main courses. Condor also offers a vegetarian option.

Maximize your purchase

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The information for the Citi Prestige Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Bottom line

All things considered, this is an incredible deal for flights to Europe. You can fly in comfort at a discounted price to many of the most popular tourist destinations.

What makes this deal even better is that the travel dates for some of these cities fall during the summer, one of Europe’s peak tourist seasons. This means you can visit Europe during one of the most popular times of the year without paying exorbitant fares.

This deal won’t last long and prices will likely change frequently. We recommend seizing this opportunity and booking your tickets as soon as possible.

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Some supply chain managers are wary of shifting trade back to West Coast ports

January 3, 2023 Published by

US Top News and Analysis 

Shipping containers are offloaded from a container ship in the Port of Los Angeles before U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks aboard the Battleship USS Iowa Museum on June 10, 2022 in Los Angeles, California.
Mario Tama | Getty Images

Nearly a third of logistics managers at major companies and trade groups say they do not know how much trade they would return to the West Coast once an International Longshore and Warehouse Union, or ILWU, labor deal is reached, according to CNBC’s supply chain survey.

Eighteen percent of respondents said they would bring back 10% of their diverted trade, another 12% surveyed said they would bring back 20% of the trade they moved away, and another 12% were more bullish, saying they would bring back 60% of their diverted trade.

The survey questioned 341 logistic managers the week of Dec. 12-19 at companies that are members of the National Retail Federation, the American Apparel and Footwear Association, the Council Of Supply Chain Management Professionals, the Pacific Coast Council, the Agriculture Transportation Coalition and the Coalition Of New England Companies For Trade.

Of those surveyed, 49% said they did not divert trade, compared to 40% who said they did.

Over half of those respondents told CNBC the main reason for moving trade away from the West Coast was the threat of an ILWU strike. About 40% cited both California’s AB5 “gig worker” law, which concerns the employment status of drivers, and rail delays. Respondents could list multiple reasons for the trade diversion.

 Negotiations between the ILWU and their employer, the Pacific Maritime Association, have been ongoing since May 10. One of the biggest winners in the diversion of trade is the Port of New York and New Jersey which has taken the top spot in the nation, knocking the Port of Los Angeles to either second or third depending on the month.

The unresolved fears have migrated trade away from the West Coast to East Coast and Gulf ports. That has benefited East Coast warehouses as well as the two large railroads that service the ports seeing the boom in containers, CSX and Norfolk Southern. According to ITS Logistics, which monitors rail cargo trends, the volume of freight moving out of the East Coast doubles that of the West Coast.

Of those surveyed, more than half of logistics managers surveyed by CNBC do not expect the supply chain to return to normal until 2024 or after.

From January to November, 4.6 million loaded import twenty-foot equivalent units, or TEUs, with a total value of about $282 billion moved through the Port of Los Angeles. This is in comparison to the Port of New York and New Jersey, which processed 4.5 million TEUs during the same timeframe with a value of about $274.6 billion. The value of a container entering the ports is approximately $61,000, based on customs data.

The Port of New York and New Jersey took the number one slot starting in September in processing containers.

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Bryan Kohberger’s lawyer sends defense investigators to crime scene: source

January 3, 2023 Published by

Latest & Breaking News on Fox News 

EXCLUSIVE – MOSCOW, Idaho – Investigators hired by Bryan Kohberger’s defense team arrived Tuesday at the home where he’s accused of fatally stabbing four University of Idaho students, Fox News Digital has learned.

Three men and two women arrived at the King Road house at about noon Eastern time and spent 45 minutes taking video inside and outside the property.

Kaylee Goncalves, Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle and Madison Mogen were knifed to death in the early morning hours of Nov. 13 on the second and third floors of the home.

Four of the investigators left after touring the home Tuesday, while a crime scene reconstruction analyst remained.

UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO MURDERS TIMELINE: WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT THE SLAUGHTER OF FOUR STUDENTS

An Idaho State Police trooper accompanied the group. The Idaho lawyer who is representing the accused mass murderer hasn’t been publicly identified.

“The fact that Bryan Kohberger’s attorney has brought in private investigators to go throughout this crime scene leads me to believe that he is definitely going to mount a strong defense,” said Fox News contributor Ted Williams, a former homicide detective and attorney. 

A cleaning crew arrived at the murder scene last Friday to clear the home of biohazards and harmful substances in preparation for turning the property back over to the owner. 

But at a press conference later Friday announcing the arrest of Kohberger, Moscow Police Chief James Fry said that remediation efforts at the home were halted after receiving a “legal request from the court.”

IDAHO MURDER SUSPECT: WHO IS BRYAN CHRISTOPHER KOHBERGER

Kohberger was arrested Friday at about 1:30 a.m. Eastern time about 2,500 miles from the crime scene at his parents’ home in Albrightsville, Pennsylvania.

The Washington State University Ph.D. student and teaching assistant in the criminal justice and criminology program wrapped up the semester before driving home with his father for the holidays.

He was due in Monroe County Court in Stroudsburg for an extradition hearing Tuesday afternoon.

IDAHO MURDER SUSPECT KOHBERGER’S PENNSYLVANIA CLASSMATES SAY HE WAS ‘BRIGHT,’ AWKWARD, BULLIED IN SCHOOL

Jason Labar, a public defender who is representing Kohberg only in the extradition matter, said his client plans to voluntarily return to Idaho, where’s he’s charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one count of felony burglary.

Kohberger believes he will be exonerated and his parents believe their son isn’t behind the horrific slayings, LaBar told NBC News.

The slain college students were ambushed in their sleep and each stabbed multiple times, according to police.

IDAHO MURDERS: SUSPECT BRYAN CHRISTOPHER KOHBERGER ARRESTED IN KILLINGS OF 4 UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Officials have not publicly disclosed a motive for the gruesome rampage or recovered the fixed-blade knife they believe was used in the attack.

Once Kohberger returns to Idaho, the probable cause affidavit outlining his alleged crimes will be unsealed, Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson said last week.

The court document could offer more insight into Kohberger’s possible motive and connection to the victims.

Nearly seven weeks after the murders, Kohberger was finally caught after authorities matched DNA he allegedly left at the crime scene to an immediate family member who had submitted their DNA to a genealogy testing website, a law enforcement source told Fox News.

 Haley Chi-Sing, Michael Ruiz and Stephanie Pagones contributed to this report.

 

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Former Tesla China Boss Takes Over Responsibility For Global Assembly And Sales

January 3, 2023 Published by

Carscoops 

Tesla has a new number two in the form of Tom Zhu, who has been with it since 2014 and worked most recently as its vice president for Greater China. The Chinese-born executive will now be tasked with direct oversight of the company’s assembly plants and sales operations.

Reuters cites an internal posting, whose authenticity was confirmed by employees, that showed that Tesla’s regional and national heads of operations will all report to Zhu. His duties do not, however, include design or development of new vehicles, areas that CEO Elon Musk has historically shown an interest in.

In December, Zhu flew to Austin, Texas, to tour Tesla’s Gigafactory there and help troubleshoot production issues. The plant is also the home of Tesla’s headquarters, which were moved out of California shortly after Musk moved to the state.

More: Elon Musk Taps Tesla’s China Chief To Help Ramp Up Texas Gigafactory

It is unclear if Zhu will work from the U.S. or China, but he will retain his title as vice president of Greater China. In that role, he oversaw the ramp up of Tesla‘s Shanghai Gigafactory, and helped the plant recover after strict COVID-19 measures were put in place, going so far as to sleep in the factory with workers.

He will be taking charge of the company’s global production at a time when there’s a lot to do, though. The automaker’s factory in Berlin is still ramping up, production of its all-electric Semi truck has begun, and the Cybertruck must soon be put into mass production, after years of delays.

In addition, the automaker is in the midst of giving the Model 3 sedan a much-anticipated update, and developing a smaller, more affordable EV that has long been promised, though no details have been shared about timelines for production, or even introduction of that vehicle. That’s to say nothing of the Tesla Roadster, which was unveiled in 2019. Although Zhu won’t be tasked with overseeing all of that, getting production and sales running smoothly will be essential for the future of the company.

His appointment comes at a time when Tesla’s stock price is tanking as a result of Musk’s divided attentions. Since taking over at Twitter, and continuing his roles at Tesla, SpaceX, and The Boring Company, investors have urged Musk to increase his focus on the automotive company that’s at the center of his empire. Putting a stalwart manager in charge of production and sales may help appease some investors.

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