Men's Journal's Blog, page 24

Southwest Airlines Apologizes After Embarrassing Mistake With Blind Passengers

Southwest Airlines had to apologize to two passengers following an embarrassing recent incident in which the women, who are both blind, were left behind by their flight.

Sherri Brun and Camille Tate had booked spots on Southwest Flight 2637 from New Orleans to Orlando on July 14. However, the plane was delayed several hours.

When the two women finally boarded, they were the only two people on the flight. It was at that time Brun and Tate were informed their original flight left them behind.

"You’re the only two people on this flight because they forgot about you," Brun said they were told.

According to a Southwest spokesman, via FOX 35, because the original flight was delayed, all of the other passengers were rebooked on another Orlando-bound flight taking off at an earlier time from a nearby gate.

However, no one from the airline bothered to make sure Brun and Tate had been accommodated. The plane had already landed in Orlando when crew members realized the mistake and sent the aircraft back to retrieve the two women.

BURBANK, CALIFORNIA - JULY 25: A Southwest Airlines plane takes off from Hollywood Burbank Airport on July 25, 2024 in Burbank, California. Southwest Airlines has announced it will discontinue its 50 year policy of open seating and will assign seats including premium seating in an effort to broaden its appeal. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

Mario Tama/Getty Images

“Nobody at B6 told us anything, nobody came to get us at B4,” said Brun. “The time passed.”

In a statement, Southwest apologized for the inexcusable mishap and said Brun and Tate were each offered a $100 voucher. They were not eligible for the full refund because they eventually did complete their original flight.

“We apologize for the inconvenience,” the statement said in part. “Southwest is always looking for ways to improve our customers’ travel experiences, and we’re active in the airline industry in sharing best practices about how to best accommodate passengers with disabilities.”

Both Brun and Tate expressed their opinions that the airline must do a better job of taking care of passengers, especially those with disabilities.

"There needs to be some improvement in how they communicate with their passengers especially those that have disabilities." said Tate.

Savannah Bananas Star Invites Major League MVP To Play Banana Ball

The Savannah Bananas have taken the country by storm, bringing their special brand of baseball to fans around America. What began as a viral semi-pro baseball team has turned into a worldwide sensation with millions of views and thousands of fans in pro stadiums.

The Bananas have become so popular that they're even part of ESPN's primetime programming - something beyond anyone's wildest dreams when they began play in 2016. 

The team has continued to grow with each passing year, and one of their star players believes it's time for one of MLB's best to try his hand at Banana Ball.

Former Virginia Tech outfielder Tanner Thomas invited one of the best players in the big leagues, and says he'd be a natural fit on the field for one of the fun exhibitions.

"Just a Party Animal," Thomas said about Philadelphia Phillies star and former league MVP Bryce Harper.

"He just seems like he's got the mullet, the facial hair, hits bombs. That's definitely a Party Animal."

The Party Animals are the Washington Generals to the Bananas' Harlem Globetrotters. Both clubs are among the four members of the Banana Ball Championship League, along with the Firefighters and the Texas Tailgaters.

Harper would be the biggest name to join Banana Ball, but he wouldn't be the first big leaguer. Curtis Granderson and Johnny Damon have each taken part, and Banana Ball has shared stadiums with Harper and the Phillies all summer long.

Thomas noted that MLB players could learn a thing or two from Banana Ball games, especially when it comes to engaging with fans during games.

"That's your biggest supporters," he told TMZ Sports during an interview, working a ceremonial shift at Raising Cane's.

"That's why people go to these games. That's why there's these huge stadiums, so people can come to these games. Don't make it so hard about your signature. Go sign. Go interact. Go take pictures. I think that's the number one answer to one, get more people to come to their game, and two, just to build a bigger brand." 

MLB attendance figures were down in many markets last season, while all Banana Ball games for the rest of 2025 are currently sold out, per the team website.

"People are lining up hours and hours before the game," Thomas said. "If we have a game at seven, people are showing up around noon. It really is awesome to see. And I mean, people just love us having fun, because when we bring the energy, they bring the energy."

We'll see if the energy is enough to get Harper - or any other current Major Leaguers - to join for Banana Ball if they can find the time. 

Tom Holland Admits 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' Feels 'Different'

After three solo Spider-Man movies, you’d assume that nothing would feel too off-the-wall for Tom Holland. Not only is this Holland's fourth time suiting up for the franchise itself, but he's also starred in Avengers and several other Marvel films.

Even with no shortage of reps under his belt, the 29-year-old actor couldn't help but admit that it feels "different" ahead of Spider-Man: Brand New Day.

Tom Holland's Comments on Spider-Man: Brand New Day Come in a Unique Teaser

While there's been a plethora of clips surfacing on social media showcasing the filming of Spider-Man, the new teaser provides a more personal touch that focuses on Holland.

Tom Holland is seen on the set of 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day.'

Photo by MEGA/GC Images

Of course, the clip released by the Spider-Man Movie official X account also includes an action shot or two, specifically of Spider-Man riding a tank.

“You know, it's funny, putting the suit on, it feels different this time, somehow," Holland said. "It's also the first time we've ever had fans on set for Day 1, so it's really exciting to share this with them."

"We've got some familiar faces on set, you know, I'm just going to do my best, hopefully get it right. No pressure,"

Day one back in the suit. The story continues with #SpiderManBrandNewDay - in theatres 7.31.26 pic.twitter.com/SBbyAEfWmB

— Spider-Man Movie (@SpiderManMovie) August 10, 2025

Although Holland tossed in a "no pressure" joke there, it's fair to say that his grasp on the iconic superhero role won't be an issue.

After all, it's been nine years since he first suited up as Spider-Man, appearing in Captain America: Civil War. That was followed up by his first standalone film in the series, Spider-Man: Homecoming, which debuted in 2017.

Looking Ahead at Tom Holland's Future Outlook as Spider-Man & His James Bond Comments

The expectation remains that Holland will reprise the role of Spider-Man in either the 2026 film Avengers: Doomsday or the 2027 release Avengers: Secret Wars. The big question still remains what his future looks like with the franchise beyond that.

While that topic will remain anyone's guess until Holland himself discusses it, he did open up about the potential of becoming the next James Bond.

Tom Holland arrives for the premiere of Apple TV+'s 'The Crowded Room' at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.

Angela Weiss/AFP via Getty Images

During a recent appearance on Scrambled with Gordon Ramsay, he was asked about potentially playing the role of 007, and gave an honest answer.

"Listen, there's speculation at the minute, we'll keep it to a minimum for now," Holland said of playing James Bond. "We'll get there one day."

After Ramsay posed that he'd "love the opportunity, right?" Holland proceeded to get even more candid on the topic.

"I mean, every young British actor, it's the pinnacle of working in our industry," Holland said of the role. "I already consider myself to be the luckiest kid alive. I could never have dreamed to have the career that I've had."

Obviously, this doesn't mean Holland will become the next James Bond, and we also have no idea what the chances are that he's in pole position to beat out a tough mix of names rumored to be in consideration. Regardless, Holland as the next James Bond might be a topic worth monitoring in the coming months.

Related: 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' Filming Takes an Unexpected Turn in Glasgow, Scotland

Popular Rapper Stops Concert to Scold ‘Irresponsible’ Fan

Colombian rapper Maluma stopped his show in Mexico City to scold a fan for bringing their infant son to a concert. 

"Ma'am, I'm going to tell you something. Don't bring him here, leave him there. With all due respect, I'm already a father. What's he? A year old?" Maluma, 31, said mid-show in Mexico City over the weekend. "Do you think it's a good idea to bring a 1-year-old baby to a concert where the decibels are really loud, where the sound is really loud?"

The "Felices los 4" singer continued, "Your baby doesn't even know what he's doing here. Next time, protect his ears or something. That's really irresponsible, and you were waving the baby around like he was a toy. That kid really doesn't want to be there."

@estilodf

Maluma detiene su show para regañar a una mamá que llevó a un bebé de 1 año sin protegerle los oídos. CC: @gerudito #maluma #malumababy #malumaoficial #malumaedits #malumafans #papijuancho #mexico #méxico #cdmx #malumaconcert

♬ sonido original - EstiloDF

Maluma -- who shares 17-month-old daughter Paris with girlfriend Susana Gómez -- added that he "would never" bring his child to a concert. 

"So next time, be a little more aware," he said. 

As video of the interaction began to circulate online, fans had mixed responses with some praising the singer for bringing awareness to the issue. 

"There’s a serious lack of education when it comes to hearing protection even for adults at concerts," one fan wrote via X. "The thing is people don’t realize how fast loud music can do permanent damage. Protecting your ears should be a no-brainer," another added.

However, others were quick to call out Maluma for "embarrassing" his fan. 

"This is extremely real and responsible of him to do but crazy because he embarrassed that parent on another level," one user said, with another adding, "Yeah, it’s the right move, but definitely one of those moments that’ll live rent-free in that parent’s head forever."

It's unclear if the mother left the venue after Maluma's warning.

McDonald's CEO Breaks His Silence on Losing Low-Income Customers

McDonald's has long been known as an inexpensive fast food option that appealed to low-income customers and families across the United States. However, it sounds like that status is a little bit at risk.

For decades, McDonald's has looked to cater to budget-conscious consumers with its value meals, dollar menu, and regular specials and deals to go along with its everyday low prices.

McDonald's has also made some major changes in recent months to help cater to lower-income customers. However, it sounds like the chain is gradually losing those customers, which is a major problem given how important that group has been for the fast food chain over the years.

McDonald's Targeted Budget-Conscious Customers

In recent months, McDonald's has made several changes to its menu and offerings in an attempt to cater to lower-income customers.

Last summer, it launched its $5 Meal Deal. Then, the fast food chain followed that up by rolling out the McValue menu earlier this year, including its Buy One, Add One for $1 deal as well as the new Daily Double deal.

Perhaps the most successful attempt to target budget-conscious customers came just last month when McDonald's successfully re-launced the Snack Wrap. The item was so popular that it even led to a lettuce shortage in some McDonald's locations due to the unprecedented demand.

Despite all of these moves, however, the company has not been able to successfully bring in lower-income customers.

McDonald's CEO Addresses the Issue

While McDonald's has clealry tried to target low-income customers in recent months, the fast food chain faces a pretty major problem as those efforts have been largely unsuccessful.

During an earnings call last week, McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski admitted that the company has been continually losing low-income customers while gaining middle and high-income customers.

“The U.S. remained challenging as visits across the industry by low-income consumers once again declined by double digits versus the prior year period,” Kempczinski said via The Street. “Reengaging the low-income consumer is critical as they typically visit our restaurants more frequently than middle- and high-income consumers.”

Kempczinski speculated about the reason for the loss of lower-income customers, pointing out that that these low-income customers are facing a challenging and uncertain economy.

“With the low-income consumer, despite improvements in wage gains, real incomes are down,” said Kempczinski. “That absolutely is going to put pressure on visits into the QSR industry. Second thing is there is a lot of anxiety and unease with that low-income consumer. I think we could all speculate the reasons for that, probably tariffs and the impact that that might have, questions around employment situation.”

We'll have to see whether or not McDonald's can reverse this trend in the coming months. But it's clearly a major problem as one of the company's core customer groups is disappearing.

Eminem’s 'Stans' Documentary Featured a Unique Custom Popcorn Bucket

It’s become a common trend for high-profile movies to offer custom popcorn buckets. We’ve seen custom offerings from the likes of Superman and Fantastic Four: First Steps in just the last two months. While it’s rare for a documentary to offer the same custom options to moviegoers, most documentaries aren’t produced by Eminem.

When Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Mathers, released his documentary Stans, it also featured its own custom popcorn bucket. Not surprisingly, fans were left impressed with its uniqueness.

Eminem's 'Stans' Popcorn Bucket & Documentary Details

The documentary features a limited theatrical run exclusively in AMC theaters from Aug. 7 to 10, and it's probably a bit different from what most would expect. Instead of taking a deep dive into Eminem's career and meteoric rise to becoming one of the most respected rappers, Stans focuses on his career through the eyes of his fans.

Eminem performs at 'Live from Detroit: The Concert at Michigan Central.'

Scott Legato/Getty Images

In a press release about the Stans documentary, it highlights that the story is built around "Stan," the track which was released on The Marshall Mathers LP in 2000.

"Built around 'Stan' – the iconic Eminem track released 25 years ago about an obsessive, unstable fan – the film introduces us to a group of real-life ‘stans’ whose deeply personal connections to Eminem mirror some of the many themes found throughout his discography."

While the high-profile documentary has drawn plenty of attention, the same can be said about the pill bottle popcorn bucket offered, which Eminem revealed he was giving away for free at select locations.

STANS understand.. Free Rx popcorn bucket with #STANS movie ticket, select locations worldwide, while supplies last! https://t.co/BQ8uxND0i6 pic.twitter.com/qtrNxkKYHR

— Marshall Mathers (@Eminem) August 4, 2025

Many viewers have already given the documentary high marks, and thus far, it seems most moviegoers walked away impressed with the approach from director Steven Leckart and Mathers.

Reactions to Eminem's 'Stans' Pill Bottle Popcorn Bucket Poured In

There was no shortage of responses to the impressive Stans custom popcorn bucket; it was also one of the most unique in recent memory.

While many fans praised the marketing angle, others were simply impressed with the creativity and many praised Eminem as well.

"Wow, the Eminem ‘Stans’ documentary has these custom popcorn buckets that look like pill bottles. 10/10 creativity," said one viewer.

"Eminem gave everyone who went to see #StansMovie a FREE bucket of popcorn in this bucket," said one fan with a goat emoji.

"You are always the best one Marshall!" replied another fan.

"Only real stans understand. That RX popcorn bucket's already iconic. I'm grabbing mine before they're gone," read another reply.

"Omg!! Will they be at the theatre, being handed out? Or how do we ensure we get one?" said an excited fan.

Eminem also made a surprise appearance at the Stans premiere in New York, while addressing the crowd and revealing the documentary was a "thank you" to fans.

"This is my thank you to all of you for sticking by me..." Mathers said in a video released by USA Today Life. "...This film is dedicated to y'all. And I just wanna thank you from the bottom of my heart."

Related: MGK's New Viral Dance Song 'Cliche' Causes a Stir With Eminem Fans

JFK Jr., Wife Carolyn Bessette Seen in Newly Released Wedding Photos

For years, the public only had a single picture from the wedding of John F. Kennedy Jr. and his wife, Carolyn Bessette.

The photo showed them on the church steps and was the one picture they released publicly. Now, years after they died with Bessette's sister in a small plane crash in the Atlantic in 1999, a series of never-before-seen wedding photos has been released.

JFK Jr. & His Wife Carolyn Bessette Were Married on a Georgia Island

At the time, the wedding of Camelot's Prince and his new wife, Carolyn, was a closely guarded secret.

According to CNN, the wedding was kept so quiet that even some guests didn't know they were about to witness the nuptials of the man then considered one of America's most desired bachelors. Carolyn Bessette's elegantly simple wedding dress became an instant style classic.

A CNN Exclusive of Rarely seen photos of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's secret wedding

Though additional images and anecdotes have trickled out over the years, a trove of snapshots has been shared exclusively with CNN ahead of the network’s premiere of its three-part CNN… pic.twitter.com/NUbhW9GRWc

— Melissa Hallman (@dotconnectinga) August 9, 2025

The 1996 wedding took place "in a one-room church on Georgia’s Cumberland Island," CNN reported.

Tragically, the bride and groom would perish in the plane crash on the way to another wedding, that of Kennedy's cousin.

Now, CNN has released the series of secret wedding photos. They can be seen in full in a story posted on the network's website.

The wedding photos were published by CNN as part of its three-part series, American Prince: JFK Jr., which airs on Aug. 9.

Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and John Fitzgerald Kennedy Jr attend the presentation of the new watch Cartier « Tank » on April 15, 1996 in Geneva. Switzerland.

Stephane Cardinale - Corbis/Getty Images

The series covers his father's assassination, his work for George magazine, and his marriage to the enigmatic Bessette, according to CNN's website on the series.

According to USA Today, the new wedding photos were taken by Carole Radziwill, who was married to JFK Jr's cousin, Anthony Radziwill.

"It's almost like they eloped with 30 of their closest friends. It was very much like that," Radziwill told CNN of the wedding. "You didn't get the sense that anything was overly planned. They just let things happen the way they happened. And there was something so beautiful about that."

Related: Pamela Anderson Described Her Go-to Date Night Outfit Amid Liam Neeson Romance

Iconic Pasta Brand Launches New Line of Gluten-Free Products

Chickpea and lentil pastas have been all the rage for a few years now. They’re a source of protein and fiber that isn’t necessarily found in traditional pasta, and consumers love that. One of the most popular legume-based pasta brands taking charge in the market is Banza. Their chickpea-based pasta has turned into a cult-favorite and their iconic orange packaging is instantly recognizable.

They’ve added a new lineup to their portfolio - Banza Gluten-Free Brown Rice Pasta. Instead of being packed in that iconic orange box, this line is a dark green color with an orange checkered border. It’s adorned with an open mouth with a see-through window so you can take a peek at what you’re about to boil.

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The ingredients list has 2 simple ingredients: brown rice and chickpeas. It’s a bit of a change from their traditional chickpea pasta that contains 4 ingredients: chickpeas, pea starch, tapioca and xanthan gum, which is also gluten-free.

Banza Gluten-Free Brown Rice Pasta

Banza

Per Banza, they launched this new line, focusing on brown rice as the main ingredient, because they wanted to “create the tastiest GF pasta, crafted for resilience in the kitchen and that classic pasta taste and texture”. They feel they got it just right with this new formula.

The nutritional profile is similar in some ways, and different in others. For a 2-ounce serving, the calories are about the same, but the brown rice version is lower in total fat (1-gram versus 3-grams), the fiber is lower (4-grams versus 7-grams) and the protein is lower (6-grams versus 11-grams). Both are impressive for pasta, actually.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Banza (@eatbanza)

While it seems the original chickpea variety is superior from a nutrition standpoint, the brown rice version is the gluten-free culinary superstar, having a taste and texture similar to traditional pasta.

Featured Story: Popular Grain-Free Brand Drops Sale On This Best-Selling Product at Costco

While it’s a new product, so reviews are just starting to pour in, one Banza super fan agrees it’s a showstopper in their recipes. “It’s sooooo good!!!!”, they exclaimed on Instagram.

If you’re looking to try it out for yourself, you can grab Banza Gluten-Free Brown Rice Pasta straight from their website at $29.99 for 6 boxes. It’s also popping up at supermarkets like Target, Kroger and Thrive Market. And we fully expect it to fly off shelves.

Up Next:

Related: Fan-Favorite Low-Carb Brand’s New Pasta Line Has Fans Calling It ‘Genius’

Smartwatches Recalled After They Melted, Caught on Fire

A brand of smartwatches is being recalled because of the risk that their charging pads "can overheat and ignite." 

That's according to the Aug. 7 recall notice filed with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. 

The recall affects Deale International's Altafit Smartwatches.

"Deale International has received 39 reports of smartwatches melting, burning and catching on fire while charging, including six reports of burns to hands and property damage," the recall notice says.

The Recall Notice Says the Smartwatches Carry the Risk of 'Serious Burn Injury & Fire Hazard'

According to the notice, the smartwatches are sold by HSN.

"The smartwatch's wireless charging pad can overheat and ignite, posing a risk of serious burn injury and fire hazard," the recall notice says.

"Consumers should immediately unplug the smartwatch’s charging pad and stop charging the recalled smartwatch," it adds. 

"Consumers can contact Deale International for instructions on how to receive a free replacement. Consumers will be asked to cut the unplugged charging pad’s power cable and email a photo of the charging pad with the cut cable to altafitrecall@thedeale.com."

The recall notice says that about 2,900 units are affected by the recall.

The Recall Notice Provides Further Details About the Smartwatches 

The recall "involves Altafit af28 smartwatches. The recalled smartwatch was sold in gold and silver tones and has a 1.68-inch color touchscreen and two bands, one bejeweled and one mesh," the notice continues. 

"It came in a golden case with a wireless charging pad and cable. “ALTAFIT FCC ID 2BHG8-AF28” is on the back of the watch." The recall notice page contains photos of the watch. 

The product was sold online at HSN.com "from March 2025 through May 2025 for about $50," the recall notice says. The company is located in Fort Lauderdale, it says, adding that the smartwatches were manufactured in China.

Related: Southwest Airlines Announces 'Unprecedented' Change Amid Free Bag Outrage

Bass Pro Shops Has 'Extremely Clear' Vortex Binoculars on Sale for Under $200

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Between hunting, hiking, and bird-watching, binoculars can be used for countless outdoor excursions. These binoculars at Bass Pro Shops are some of the best you can get in their price range, and now they’re over 30% off.

Now that Bass Pro Shops’ hunting sale is underway, you can get the $250 Vortex Diamondback HD Binoculars for $170. With a nearly perfect 4.8-star rating, shoppers are saying they’re “easy to use even with glasses” and “these things are crystal clear and compact, [I] would definitely buy again.”

Vortex Diamondback HD Binoculars, $170 (was $250) at Bass Pro Shops

Courtesy of Bass Pro Shops

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These binoculars are a Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s exclusive, and come in a TrueTimber camo colorway that’s perfect for the great outdoors. The binoculars themselves have an ergonomic design to make long sessions more comfortable on the hands. The HD lenses have multiple anti-reflective and multi-layer prism coatings to give you clear and accurate images no matter what time of day it is, and the ultra-wide view allows you to cover more ground. They’re also argon-gas purged and O-ring sealed to make them completely waterproof and to prevent fog from building up. You can adjust both barrels simultaneously with the center wheel, and the eyecups are designed to be comfortable even if you’re wearing glasses.

Even if you’re not a hunter, these are great binoculars for your next hike: “Purchased these to have a lightweight pair of binoculars for day hikes. These fit perfectly in my daypack, but still have the power for seeing wildlife and lots of details in the scenery. Caught a little rain on our last hike. Watched an owl and some coyotes moving for cover, and the binoculars didn't fog up at all.”

Related: Garmin's 'Intuitive' Garmin Epix Smartwatch Is $200 Off at Bass Pro Shops, and It Has 'Insane Battery Life'

The crystal-clear image is widely praised among owners who wrote, “I was amazed at how clear the viewing was. The binoculars are lightweight and not bulky. Easy to carry neck strap,” and “Have only used [it] a few times, but these binoculars are extremely clear and are exactly what I was looking for.” A third owner wrote, “Very clear and bright image even in low light. I have other name-brand binoculars but this one is the best of them.”

Adventure-ready and built to last, the Vortex Diamondback HD Binoculars are available now for $170 at Bass Pro Shops. Just be sure to grab these soon if you’re interested, as Bass Pro Shops’ hunting sale won’t last for long.

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