As many things swirl in the realms of international relations and public health, the world sees an oddly calm situation in the Strait of Hormuz despite recent tensions. The U.S. and Iran find themselves in a delicate ceasefire, even as little skirmishes occur in one of the most strategically significant maritime passages. The Pentagon assures the world that these little hiccups don’t call for any more saber-rattling, and the U.S. maintains control over the strait. In the meantime, neighboring UAE has had to bear the brunt of Iranian attacks for the second day in a row. Perhaps Iran believes in the second time being the charm – who knows?
In the meantime, Mother Nature throws yet another curveball at humanity. This time it’s the hantavirus making headlines, thanks to a transatlantic cruise ship. The floating hotel has transformed into a symbol of the latest health scare, with three lives claimed and several more guests under the weather. While passengers are expected to make an unscheduled stop in the Canary Islands for treatment, it adds to the seemingly never-ending cavalcade of reasons to rethink vacation plans.
On a more positive home-front initiative, President Trump has brought back a program that promises healthier lifestyles. He has reinstated the Presidential Fitness Test in schools as part of his Make America Healthy Again movement. Promoting fitness and exercise among children and adults alike, Trump revives a blast from the past. Kids and professional athletes gathered at the White House to flaunt their athletic prowess, giving parents yet another reason to be nostalgic about the days when “participation trophies” weren’t a badge of honor.
Turning to the entertainment world, the music scene faces a temporary setback as the iconic Dolly Parton cancels her Las Vegas residency. A legend in country music, the 80-year-old performer battles mysterious “immune and digestive” troubles but assures fans she’s on the road to recovery. It seems life on the road can take a toll, even on phenomenal talents like Dolly. One can only hope her break will lead to another round of unforgettable performances once she’s back on her feet.
Lastly, let’s address the high-flying topic of airline snacks – or the lack thereof! Delta Airlines has decided the sky is not the limit for its customer service. Starting May 19th, passengers taking short-haul flights under 350 miles will have to bring their own peanuts and soda, as Delta cuts in-flight snacks and drinks for most customers. Lucky first-class folks will still enjoy this staple, while the rest of us can only wistfully look from behind the elite curtain. It appears not only the altitude takes a dip on short flights. Who knew packets of pretzels would become so exclusive?
