Erie Zoo hosts Equipment Day
The Erie Zoo held one of its most beloved annual events on Saturday.
It was Equipment Day. Massive trucks, tractors and construction equipment were all on display.
Kids had the opportunity to get up close, snap photos and explore 15 different types of machinery.
Tickets now available Erie Zoo's centennial Mane Event
Hali Hartley, the special events manager for the zoo, said both kids and adults love to enjoy this event.
'This event is sort of the kick-off of our summer,' said Hartley. 'It's the most popular event, everyone loves this event, they come every year, so we just make sure to try to make it better and bring more machines each year.'
And visitors have just over a week to view their Chinese lantern festival, Glow Wild.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Thousands of people enjoy 'biggest-ever carnival' held in East Lancs town
Crowds packed the streets for the biggest-ever Bacup and Stacksteads Carnival. Held on Sunday, June 29, the event drew thousands of spectators who followed the lively parade into the park in what organisers described as a record-breaking turnout. The carnival is Bacup's largest one-day event and has grown steadily since the Bacup and Stacksteads Carnival Organisation (BASCO) was formed in 2008 and held its first event in 2010. Catherine Smyth, chairman of BASCO, said: "It was amazing and the event was made extra special because leading the procession was the Mayor of Rossendale, Councillor Michelle Smith, who is our secretary, and her Mayoress, Jackie Oakes, is our treasurer. "Jackie missed out on leading the parade during her mayoral year as Covid forced us to cancel. Held on Sunday, June 29, the event drew thousands of spectators (Image: CATHERINE SMYTH) "Thank you to everyone who organises and delivers the event, the committee and the many carnival makers on the day, and every single participant and visitor." The theme of this year's parade was books, and the route overflowed with colourful characters and creative costumes. Francesca Dean, 30, from Stacksteads, who has attended the carnival since childhood, said: "The procession was really, really good and all the costumes were fabulous and everyone was having a lot of fun." The parade was led by the Accrington Pipe Band, followed by town crier Simon Dalley, civic dignitaries, and the carnival banner. Hundreds of children and adults took part, dressed as characters from their favourite stories. The Cubs and Beavers from Trinity Baptist Church took first prize with their Jungle Book entry, while St Joseph's RC School in Stacksteads came second. Mayor of Rossendale Councillor Michelle Smith said: "Today has been wonderful and we have had one of the biggest processions – it was mega and it has been amazing to see so many people in the park. A Chinese lion rests in the heat (Image: CATHERINE SMYTH) "When I come here and see all these people enjoying themselves at something we have created, it makes it extra special – and I didn't have to pick up any litter this year." Entertainment continued throughout the afternoon, with performances on the main stage and a popular dog show organised by Pups and Pooches in the sunken garden. New Bacup business Tommy Tumble Town took part in the procession and set up on the field. Owner Charlie Squibbs said: "The carnival has helped us to get known and we had a lot of interest from parents and carers of special needs children." Denis Yudin, who moved to Weir from Ukraine nearly three years ago, said: "This is our third carnival. "It is nice to see all the different groups in the community getting involved. "It is not something we have in our small town. "I feel you have more different groups, more connections and more community life." Spectrum of Light, a support organisation for families with additional needs, hosted a stall for the first time. READ MORE: Festival of Making enthusiasm in build-up to next weekend Lancs council signs 'friendship agreement' with city in Palestine Defender Steve Kapuadi drops hint over links with Blackburn Rovers Volunteer Tasha Hodgins said: "We have been run off our feet. "We are just proud to be representing Spectrum and getting the word out there to carers and children with special needs that we are here to give support." Next year's carnival will take place on June 28.
Los Angeles Times
3 hours ago
- Los Angeles Times
AI is controversial in Hollywood. For China's film business, it's no holds barred
Hollywood's relationship with artificial intelligence is fraught, as studios balance the need to cut costs with growing concerns from actors, directors and crew members. But in China, efforts to use AI in entertainment are taking a more no-holds-barred approach. The China Film Foundation, a nonprofit fund under the Chinese government, plans to use AI to revitalize 100 kung fu classics including 'Police Story,' 'Once Upon a Time in China' and 'Fist of Fury,' featuring Jackie Chan, Jet Li and Bruce Lee, respectively. The foundation said it will partner with businesses including Shanghai Canxing Culture & Media Co., which will license 100 Hong Kong films to AI companies to reintroduce those movies to younger audiences globally. The foundation said there are opportunities to use AI to tell those stories through animation, for example. There are plans to release an animated version of director John Woo's 1986 film 'A Better Tomorrow' that uses AI to 'reinterpret' Woo's 'signature visual language,' according to an English transcript of the announcement. 'By empowering cultural storytelling with technology, we can breathe new life into the classics and tell China's stories farther and louder,' said Zhang Pimin, chairman of the China Film Foundation, at the Shanghai International Film Festival earlier this month. The project raised eyebrows among U.S. artists, many of whom are deeply wary of the use of AI in creative pursuits. The Directors Guild of America said AI is a creative tool that should only be used to enhance the creative storytelling process and 'it should never be used retroactively to distort or destroy a filmmaker's artistic work.' 'The DGA strongly opposes the use of AI or any other technology to mutilate a film or to alter a director's vision,' the DGA said in a statement. 'The Guild has a longstanding history of opposing such alterations on issues like colorization or sanitization of films to eliminate so-called 'objectionable content', or other changes that fundamentally alter a film's original style, meaning, and substance.' The project highlights widely divergent views on AI's potential to reshape entertainment as the two countries compete for dominance in the highly competitive AI space. In the U.S., much of the traditional entertainment industry has taken a tepid view of generative AI, due to concerns over protecting intellectual property and labor relations. While some Hollywood studios such as Lionsgate and Blumhouse have collaborated with AI companies, others have been reluctant to announce partnerships at the risk of offending talent that have voiced concerns over how AI could be used to alter their digital likeness without adequate compensation. But other countries like China have fewer guardrails, which has led to more experimentation of the technology by entertainment companies. Many people in China embrace AI, with 83% feeling confident that AI systems are designed to act in the best interest of society, much higher than the U.S. where it's 37%, according to a survey from the United Nations Development Program. The foundation's announcement came as a surprise to Bruce Lee Enterprises, which oversees legal usage of Lee's likeness in creative works. Bruce Lee's family was 'previously unaware of this development and is currently gathering information,' a spokesperson said. Woo, in a written statement, said he hadn't heard from the foundation about the AI remake, noting that the rights to 'A Better Tomorrow' have changed hands several times. 'I wasn't really involved in the project because I'm not very familiar with AI technology,' Woo said in a statement to The Times. 'However, I'm very curious about the outcome and the effect it might have on my original film.' David Chi, who represents the China Film Foundation's Special Fund for Film and Urban Development, said in an interview that Chan is aware of the project and he has plans to talk with Chan's team. A representative of Chan's did not respond to a request for comment. 'We do need to talk ... very specifically how we're using animated or AI existing technology, and how that would combine with his image rights and business rights,' Chi said. Chi did not have an immediate response to the DGA, Bruce Lee Enterprises and Woo's statements. AI is already used in China for script development, content moderation and recommendations and translation. In postproduction, AI has reduced the time to complete visual effects work from days to hours, said He Tao, an official with the National Radio and Television Administration's research center, during remarks at the festival. 'Across government agencies, content platforms, and production institutions, the enthusiasm to adopt and integrate AI has never been stronger,' He said. During the project's announcement, supporters touted the opportunity AI will bring to China to further its cultural message globally and generate new work for creatives. At the same time, they touted AI's disruption of the filmmaking process, saying the 'A Better Tomorrow' remake was completed with just 30 people, significantly fewer than a typical animated project. China is a 'more brutal society in that sense,' said Eric Harwit, professor of Asian studies at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. 'If somebody loses their job because artificial intelligence is taking over, well, that's just the cost of China's moving forward. They don't have that kind of regret about people losing jobs and there are less opportunities for organized protest against the Chinese government.' Hollywood guilds such as SAG-AFTRA have been outspoken about the harm AI could have on jobs and have fought for protections against AI in contracts in TV shows, films and video games. The unions have also pushed state and federal legislators to create laws that would give people more protections against deep fakes, or videos manipulated to show a person endorsing an idea or product that they don't actually support. There is no equivalent of that in China. 'You don't have those freestanding labor organizations, so they don't have that kind of clout to protest against the Chinese using artificial intelligence in a way that might reduce their job opportunities or lead to layoffs in the sector,' Harwit added. U.S. studios are also going to court to challenge the ways AI companies train their models on copyrighted materials. Earlier this month, Walt Disney Co. and Universal Pictures sued AI startup Midjourney, alleging it uses technology to generate images that copy the studios' famous characters, including Yoda and Shrek. In China, officials involved in the project to remaster kung fu films said they were eager to work with AI companies. They said that AI will be used to add 'stunning realism' to the movies. They are planning to build 'immersive viewing experiences' such as walking into a bamboo forest duel and 'feeling the philosophy of movement and stillness.' In areas such as animation, new environments could be created with AI, Chi said. 'We are offering full access to our IP, platform, and adaptation rights to partners worldwide — with the goal of delivering richer, more diverse, and high-quality AI enhanced film works to global audiences,' said Tian Ming, chairman of Shanghai Canxing Culture & Media Co. in his remarks earlier this month. Tian said there is no revenue-sharing cap and it is allocating about $14 million to co-invest in selected projects and share in the returns. The kung fu revitalization efforts will extend into other areas, including the creation of a martial arts video game. Industry observers said China is wise to go back to its well of popular martial arts classics out of Hong Kong, which have inspired U.S. action movies for decades. There's also not as much risk involved for China, said Simon Pulman, a partner at law firm Pryor Cashman. 'They've got very little to lose by doing this,' Pulman said. 'If it can potentially enhance the value of those movies, there's very little downside for them.' China's film industry has grown significantly compared to decades ago, boosted by the proliferation of movie theaters, including Imax screens, in the country. In the past, China's box office relied heavily on U.S. productions like movies from the 'Fast & Furious' and Marvel franchises, but now local movies dominate the market. The Chinese animated movie 'Ne Zha 2' grossed $2.2 billion at the box office globally. But those Chinese productions generally don't draw large U.S. audiences when they're released in the States. The classic martial arts movies, however, have a global following and enduring legacy. 'People love martial arts movies, because action travels,' said Paul Dergarabedian, senior media analyst at Comscore. 'It doesn't matter what language it's in, if you have a great action sequence and great fighting sequences.'
Time Business News
a day ago
- Time Business News
The Social and Cultural Impact of Live Draw Taiwan
What comes to mind when you think about moments that unite people? Between family dinners, holiday parties, or cheering for your sports team? Now add another to that cohort: Live Draw Taiwan. It is not just a lottery event; it is a cultural phenomenon that unites friends, families, and communities while celebrating tradition. In the years since, live draw Taiwan has evolved into more than just a game of random chance; it has become an integral part of the country's cultural tapestry, blending entertainment, tradition, and technology. This paper will examine the influence of Live Draw Taiwan on the community, focusing on its social value, cultural significance, and its ability to bring people together and share collective experiences. The live draw in Taiwan is beloved because it is an inclusive endeavor, which is in part why it holds such significance for local people. It brings together everyone from casual viewers to serious competitors. Here's how: It's no secret that watching live draws is a national pastime for many in Taiwan. Families, friends, and sometimes even colleagues will make an event out of it, huddling around screens or heading to an in-person event to watch the excitement unfold. The thrill of guessing the next numbers has a way of uniting people around the room and leading to impromptu conversations, raucous cheers, and even good-humored disagreements. You're another, at least in the eyes of older generations, to those early days in which lottery draws took place in the intimate setting of a communal locality. Residents would gather to witness the draw – a manual process which encouraged local resolve and unity. Today, the setting and technology are different, but the feeling remains unchanged. The draw of the live broadcast in Taiwan isn't confined to the island's waters. As the competition is now in its digital age, so too can Taiwanese diaspora communities. Watching live streams makes people thousands of miles away from home feel connected, allowing them to share a moment with family back home. It's not just about the numbers in the lottery; it's about maintaining connections with culture and community. Although the primary aim of participation may be to try your luck for the jackpot, live draw Taiwan friends do play against each other, often with small stakes of money or goods. Who knew the best numbers to play? Who Came Closest to the Final Result? When watched together, it fosters silly jokes and adorable memories, all for a good laugh. The live draw in Taiwan is about more than entertainment; it's a celebration of Taiwanese culture and values. These glimpses into its past and present explore some of the aspects that set Taiwan apart. EvergreenTradition. Tradition: The history of 'tea culture' in Taiwan dates back generations. The idea of Taiwan lotteries originated from Chinese traditions, in which games of numbers played a crucial role in celebrations and festivals. Having started as a typical village event, it has adapted and continued as a fully inclusive event while still maintaining some traditional values. Many live drawing shows also continue to incorporate traditional design features, such as the inclusion of auspicious symbols and structural forms adorned with festive decorations, suggesting a blend of past and future. For example, during Lunar New Year, live draws often feature special themes, with bright red and gold designs that evoke prosperity and good fortune. It's the act of participating and watching it roll that becomes part of the celebration, just as giving or receiving red envelopes or eating traditional foods is part of the celebration. Luck is a big deal in Taiwanese culture, and life feeds into this narrative perfectly. Many people are very selective about their numbers and base their choices on superstitions or personal significance. The lucky numbers corresponding to birthdays, anniversaries, or even meaningful dreams are part of this sense of expectation and excitement. It extends beyond mere culture to influence even the timing of draws. A few may even be timed to coincide with important dates, making it that much luckier for the attendees. Festivals : Occasional live draw events have a festival-like nature. Markets or plazas in your area may host outdoor viewing parties with food vendors, music, and other festivities to keep the occasion festive. Larger festive celebrations, such as these, are a perfect portrayal of the vibrancy of Taiwanese culture, creating an opportunity for people to participate in the enthusiasm and revelry of their community. There's something elemental about a suspense-filled event unfolding in real time. All the guests are in on the shared fun and excitement of watching to see which number will be selected next. Live draw Taiwan does this very well; everyone will feel a sense of awe. In between numbers, the heart-pounding moments keep everyone on tenterhooks. There are quiet gasps, cheers, and even groans as each result is announced. Whether you're sitting alone on your couch, surrounded by people, or at a watering hole for the match, the emotional highs and lows create a memory that people hold on to long after the draw is over. Participants may be holding a variety of tickets, but together they are having the experience. This common spirit unites and enhances the joy of the event. Chatter about tactics, lucky numbers, and even what might have been (or an 'almost win') can linger long after the numbers are drawn, furthering connections among community members. The event may take place in Taiwan, but Taiwan's live draw has no borders. Thanks to advances in technology, people from all around the world can still be part of the action. This cross-cultural success not only promotes Taiwan as a pioneering country in the development of entertainment culture, but also as a goodwill ambassador, introducing its culture to the world. Although the live draw in Taiwan presents a festive mood, it is also conducted responsibly. 'Under the current system, candidates often talk about setting a limit,' Blea said, 'and both the candidates and the public seem to understand, the public talks about it as entertainment rather than an income saver.' This aligns with the broader cultural value of balance, where the lottery is about bringing joy, not just bad luck. Thus, the live draw in Taiwan is more than just a lottery; it is a shared experience that embodies and reflects the diversity of Taiwanese culture. From the sense of pulling people together under one roof (or on one screen) to the jubilant nods to tradition, Live Draw Taiwan is a lively demonstration of how simple games of chance can transcend mere numbers to become a force for community and connection. If you haven't tried Live Draw Taiwan yet, now is your chance to see what you've been missing. Whether for the rush, camaraderie, or merely the opportunity to share in a cultural phenomenon that draws countless people together, one thing's for sure: Live Draw Taiwan does not bring only numbers together. It brings people. So why not just get a ticket, tune in, and join the party? TIME BUSINESS NEWS
