Hallmark’s 2024 Holiday Ornaments: A Galaxy of Pop Culture Delights

Spring may have sprung, the clocks gone forward, and it might be getting warmer again, but for Hallmark, the holiday season is forever—and never too far away to start advertising their bizarre pop culture tree ornaments. This year, the company has lifted the lid on a bunch of its upcoming 2024 holiday ornaments, and as always, Star Wars and Star Trek dominate the proceedings.

For fans of the galaxy far, far away, there’s plenty to get excited about. Hallmark is offering an artfully-done Grand Admiral Thrawn ornament, inspired by the character’s debut in the animated series Star Wars Rebels. The 25th anniversary of The Phantom Menace also provides an opportunity for Darth Maul to fly his little sith speeder around your branches.

But it’s not all about the Dark Side. On the Trek front, this year’s offerings include Festive Diplomatic Negotiations, a recreation of Data meeting Spock in the TNG episode “Unification II.” And let’s not forget Captain Pike’s eyes – a little plastic man that is shocked to be hanging off of a festive tree.

Other pop culture franchises getting the Hallmark treatment this year include Lord of the Rings, Dune, Avatar: The Way of Water, and Stranger Things. There’s even an ornament featuring the iconic logo from the classic arcade game Pac-Man.

As always, the ornaments are a mix of nostalgia and novelty, with each one capturing a moment or character from your favorite franchise in a unique and festive way. And while you may have to wait until October for them to become available, it’s never too early to start planning your holiday decorations.

So, which ornament will you be hanging on your tree this year? Will it be the elegant Grand Admiral Thrawn or the playful Pac-Man logo? Maybe you’ll opt for something a little more unexpected, like Festive Diplomatic Negotiations. Whatever your choice, Hallmark’s 2024 holiday ornaments are sure to bring a touch of pop culture magic to your festive decorations.

As I sit here typing away on my laptop, I can’t help but feel a sense of unease about the current state of X, a social media platform that was once heralded as a beacon of free speech and creative expression. In recent months, the platform has undergone a series of changes that have left many users feeling frustrated and disillusioned.

One of the most significant changes is the removal of the ability for X Premium users to hide their blue checkmarks. For those who may not be familiar, blue checkmarks were once a symbol of prestige and verification on the platform, but they have since become a source of controversy and shame.

According to a notification sent to users on Thursday, the hide your checkmark feature of X Premium is going away soon. This means that all X Premium users will be forced to display their blue checkmarks, regardless of their feelings about the platform or its owner, Elon Musk.

This change is just the latest in a series of moves by Musk to centralize control on the platform and push his own agenda. In 2022, he reinstated an old Twitter policy that he once called a “lords & peasants system for who has or doesn’t have a blue checkmark.” This move was met with widespread criticism, as many users felt that it was a way for Musk to consolidate power and silence dissenting voices.

Since then, X has undergone a number of changes that have further eroded the platform’s reputation as a champion of free speech. The introduction of boosted content and the ability for popular users to automatically receive blue checkmarks have led to accusations of payola and corruption.

When Musk automatically gifted popular X users with blue checkmarks last week, the backlash was swift and fierce. Users quickly disclosed that they did not, and would never, pay for the feature, and people began searching for ways to hide their blue checks. The feature to hide blue checkmarks was originally introduced in Aug. 2023 as a way to encourage people to buy X Premium without the shame that came with its blue checkmark. However, it is now being removed, presumably less than a year later.

This move by Musk is a typical ultimatum, where he asks people to do things his way or leave. It’s not so different from when he told advertisers to “go f—k themselves” if they didn’t like his “free speech policies,” as he calls them. Or how he told Cybertruck owners he would penalize them if they resold their vehicle in the first year. X is increasingly becoming Elon Musk’s sandbox, where you play by his rules or hit the road.

Many of X’s high-status, blue-check-marked users are now faced with a difficult choice: continue using the platform with their blue checks and face whatever scrutiny comes along with it, or simply stop using the platform altogether. This is a move that could push many of X’s beloved creators to the brink, as they may feel that they cannot continue to use the platform under these conditions.

Many users have already left the platform for Threads or other Twitter competitors. This exodus has led to a decline in the overall quality of content on X, as many of the platform’s most talented and influential users have defected to other platforms.

In conclusion, the removal of the ability for X Premium users to hide their blue checkmarks is just the latest in a series of moves by Elon Musk to consolidate power and push his own agenda on the platform. This move is likely to further alienate many of X’s most loyal and influential users, leading to a decline in the overall quality of content and a loss of faith in the platform’s ability to promote free speech and creative expression.

Captain America: Brave New World Offers More of What Fans Love

Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige has set expectations high for Captain America: Brave New World, comparing it to the fan-favorite Captain America: The Winter Soldier. At CinemaCon 2024, Feige debuted the first footage from the upcoming film, which promises to deliver more of what fans love about the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

The footage begins with an image of the White House set over the classic Captain America theme from previous films. Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie), now the new Captain America, enters the Oval Office and greets the new President of the United States, Thaddeus Ross (Harrison Ford). The scene is filled with humor, as Sam comments on how Ross looks different from his predecessor, William Hurt. Ross explains that he had to lose his mustache or he would lose the election, and he’s also trying to quit smoking, which leads to him being handed a red lollipop.

Ross tells Sam that while he’s not generally a fan of superheroes, what he did in Mexico changed his mind. He wants Sam to help rebuild the Avengers, and he thanks them for securing an important item. However, the President’s speech is interrupted by an old song that triggers one of the original super soldiers, Isaiah Bradley (Carl Lumbly). Bradley goes into full Winter Soldier mode and tries to assassinate the President.

The footage shows Sam getting involved in the action, fighting Isaiah, and chasing him through the White House. The scene transitions into a montage of action sequences, including a moment where Sam uses his shield to stop several bad guys from stunning him with electric prods. The excitement ends with Ross saying to Sam, “You’re not Steve Rogers,” to which he replies, “You’re right, I’m not.” The footage then cuts to Sam in full new Captain America armor, complete with Falcon wings, unfurling amongst the Cherry Blossom trees of Washington D.C.

Directed by Julius Onah and co-starring Tim Blake Nelson and Liv Tyler, Captain America: Brave New World promises to deliver more of what fans love about the MCU. The film is set to release on February 14, 2025, and it’s sure to be a hit with fans.

If you’re looking for more io9 news, be sure to check out our coverage of upcoming Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, as well as everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who. We’ve got you covered on all things geeky and exciting in the world of entertainment!

Based on the data provided, here are the top 5 cities in Texas with the highest take-home pay for a $100,000 salary:

1. San Antonio – Take home pay of $80,124 after taxes and cost-of-living adjustments. Median house price is $360,000.

2. Fort Worth – Take home pay of $79,527 after taxes and cost-of-living adjustments. Median house price is $389,000.

3. Arlington – Take home pay of $79,921 after taxes and cost-of-living adjustments. Median house price is $311,000.

4. Dallas – Take home pay of $83,350 after taxes and cost-of-living adjustments. Median house price is $377,000.

5. Austin – Take home pay of $84,498 after taxes and cost-of-living adjustments. Median house price is $320,000.

It’s important to note that these figures are based on average costs and salaries in each city, and individual experiences may vary. Additionally, other factors such as job opportunities, education, healthcare, and transportation should also be considered when deciding where to live.

The world of horror and comedy is about to get a major shake-up with some exciting new projects in the works! From the reboot of a classic parody franchise to a creepy curse that afflicts a pop star, there’s something for every kind of movie lover. Here’s the latest scoop on what’s coming up:

First up, Variety reports that Paramount has teamed with Fast and the Furious producer Neal H. Moritz on a reboot of the Scary Movie franchise. This feature-length horror movie parody series has been dormant for a while, but now it’s back with a vengeance! The first Scary Movie was released in 2000 and became a hit, poking fun at popular horror movies like Scream and I Know What You Did Last Summer.

Next, we have some exciting news for fans of the 28 Years Later saga. According to Deadline, Nia DaCosta (Candyman) is in talks to direct the second part of the trilogy. The first film, titled 28 Days Later, was released in 2002 and starred Naomie Harris and Cillian Murphy. The sequel, 28 Weeks Later, came out in 2007 and followed a group of survivors as they tried to rebuild their lives in a post-apocalyptic world.

If you’re looking for something new and original, check out the trailer for If, coming to theaters on May 17. This imaginary friend comedy from Paramount promises to be a heartwarming and hilarious adventure that explores the power of imagination and friendship. The film follows a young boy who creates an imaginary friend named “If” to cope with his parents’ divorce, and soon finds himself on a wild journey through the world of fantasy.

But if you’re in the mood for something darker and creepier, get ready for Smile 2! According to Bloody-Disgusting, the sequel to the hit horror movie Smile (2023) will follow a pop star who picks up a malevolent curse after a fan “breaks into her dressing room and smiles creepily at her.” The outlet additionally notes that “a kid with braces” also “flashes her a similar malevolent smile” in the footage screened at CinemaCon 2024. This one looks like it’s going to be a wild ride!

Finally, if you’re a fan of female assassins and action-packed thrillers, check out the trailer for Kitty the Killer, coming to VOD on May 7. This killer comedy follows a group of female assassins called “Kitty” as they turn on their employers in a series of gruesome and hilarious murders. Think Kill Bill meets Pulp Fiction with a dash of Tarantino-esque style and humor.

And if you’re looking for even more excitement, don’t miss the TV spot for next week’s episode of X-Men ’97! The trailer teases an unexpected appearance from Captain America, so get ready for some epic superhero action.

So there you have it, folks! These are just a few of the exciting new projects coming up in the world of horror and comedy. From rebooted classics to original concepts, there’s something for every kind of movie lover. Stay tuned for more updates and get ready to laugh, scream, and be thrilled by these upcoming releases!

Elon Musk is known for his innovative ideas and ambitious predictions about the future. However, many of these predictions have not come to pass, and some have been outright false. Here are some examples:

1. Hyperloop: In 2017, Musk tweeted that a hyperloop system would be built from New York to Los Angeles, with a top speed of 600 miles per hour. However, the only hyperloop project that has been developed is a small-scale test track in Nevada.

2. Autonomous driving: Musk has repeatedly promised that Tesla would have fully autonomous vehicles on the road within two years, but this has not happened yet. In 2018, he claimed that coast-to-coast drive would be possible within six months.

3. AI: Musk has expressed concerns about the dangers of AI, while also trying to develop it himself. He tweeted in 2014 that AI could be more dangerous than nukes and that we need to be super careful with AI. However, his own AI company, Grok, has been criticized for its lack of transparency and potential dangers.

4. Candy Company: In 2018, Musk tweeted that he was starting a candy company and it would be amazing, but this never materialized.

5. Model S distance record: Musk claimed in 2015 that the record for the longest distance driven in a Tesla was 800 kilometers (497 miles), and that they could break 1000 kilometers within a year or two. However, the record for the longest distance driven in a Tesla is only 901 kilometers (560 miles) and under strict conditions.

These examples show that Musk has a history of making bold predictions that do not come to pass and highlights the potential dangers of hyping new technologies without proper research and testing. It’s important to approach these predictions with skepticism and to remember that actual progress and success often takes longer and is more incremental than promised.

Hey there, fellow geeks! Are you ready for the most highly anticipated Marvel movie of the year? Well, get ready because Deadpool & Wolverine is coming to theaters on July 26, and it’s going to be a wild ride!

The first trailer for the movie has already been released, and it promises to deliver all the action, humor, and meta-ness that we’ve come to expect from the Merc with a Mouth. But don’t just take our word for it – let’s dive into some of the new footage that was shown at CinemaCon 2024!

First things first: Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds) is turning 40, and he’s not happy about it. In fact, he’s so unhappy that he decides to throw a surprise party for himself… but things don’t exactly go as planned. As he blows out the candles on his birthday cake, there’s a knock at the door – and it’s not just any old knock, my friends. It’s the TVA (Time Variance Authority) coming to collect our beloved anti-hero!

Now, you may be wondering what the TVA is doing in the Deadpool universe. Well, it turns out that Wade has been a bit of a troublemaker when it comes to messing with the timeline, and the TVA is here to put a stop to his shenanigans. But don’t worry – Wade isn’t going down without a fight!

As he’s being taken away by the TVA, Wade gets into all sorts of mischief, including making some rather… shall we say, “creative” requests for his new costume. And let me tell you, the tailor they find for him is quite the character (pun intended)!

But enough about that – let’s talk about the real star of the show: Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine! Yes, you heard that right – Logan himself is joining the Deadpool universe, and it’s going to be pure magic. We get to see a bit more of their bonding session in the car, and let me tell you, it’s everything we could have hoped for.

Overall, Deadpool & Wolverine looks like a wildly entertaining ride that’s packed with action, humor, and plenty of heart. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love a good team-up movie?

So mark your calendars for July 26, my friends, and get ready to geek out over the Merc with a Mouth and the Adamantium Avenger! Suck it, Fox – Disney’s got this one!

Genosha has played a pivotal role in the history of mutants and has been the site of numerous tragedies. Here is a list of some of the most significant events that have occurred on the island nation:

1. The Genoshan Genocide – Cassandra Nova, a powerful being with the ability to manipulate reality, attempted to wipe out all mutants on the planet by creating a virus that targeted only mutant DNA. The virus was released in Genosha and caused massive destruction, killing 90% of the world’s mutant population.

2. The Decimation – Following the events of the House of M storyline, Wanda Maximoff (the Scarlet Witch) uttered the words “No More Mutants” and reality was altered, depowering nearly all mutants and causing widespread devastation.

3. The Dark Necropolis – Selene, an ancient mutant sorceress, transformed Genosha into a dark Necropolis, resurrecting the dead and using their souls to fuel her attempts at godhood.

4. Resurrection Protocols – At the first Hellfire Gala, Wanda Maximoff performed an elaborate act to secure her own place in the island’s newfound mutant circuit behind the Resurrection Protocols. She killed herself and was resurrected by the Five, allowing her to create a pocket dimension limbo known as “The Waiting Room” where millions of souls could wait for resurrection.

5. Threshold – Genosha also became the seed for the ancient mutant civilization known as Threshold, using genetic material gathered from the dead to send a mysterium lockbox filled with biological data back two billion years, setting the stage for the birth of the first mutant society.

These events have left Genosha in a state of ruin and have had a profound impact on the mutant community as a whole. Despite this, there are efforts being made to rebuild and move forward, and Genosha continues to play a significant role in the history and future of mutants.

Experience the Magic of Disney Imagineering: A Sneak Peek into the Future of Theme Parks

Hidden deep in a California valley near Walt Disney Animation Studios is a top-secret testing ground for all the technology seen at Disney Parks and experiences around the world. Recently, io9 and other members of the press were invited for an up-close look at the animatronics for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and to preview Walt Disney Imagineering’s latest tech that may or may not be coming to a theme park or cruise near you.

Led by National Inventors Hall of Famer Lanny Smoot, WDI hosted a presentation of the immersive HoloTile and demonstrated the capabilities of the “omnidirectional floor.” This groundbreaking technology allows Imagineers to walk through spaces in any direction they want, utilizing AR screens and sensory-tiled floors. Smoot explained that this tool will enable them to design theme park attractions more effectively, allowing them to virtually build what they’re about to build and understand how it will be when it is built in reality.

The HoloTile floor is made up of 19 tiles, each one capable of moving anything on its surface in any direction. The floor uses lidar technology to detect the position of the user’s feet and create a seamless experience. Smoot demonstrated how he could push the tiles together to create a bigger floor, allowing for even more immersive experiences.

Another amazing Star Wars tech moment we got to experience was Smoot’s retractable laser lightsaber. This incredible technology is heavy and requires two hands to wield, just like the real thing. The moment it was handed to me to be the first in our group to test out was seared into my memory as a core experience. It felt like a dream come true to activate it and hear the hum of the lightsaber emitted from the kyber crystal (or tech magic, in this case). The retractable laser lightsaber has only been used by Rey aboard the now-shuttered Galactic Starcruiser, but we hope it finds its way to some sort of presentation at Galaxy’s Edge.

Finally, we got to meet the adorable BD-X droids, which were created specifically for interactive purposes by the Imagineering team behind them. These droids feel so lifelike and curious when you approach them, making them delightful and pet-like. Currently, you can only see this version of the droids during their daily appearances at Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland.

These cutting-edge technologies showcase the incredible innovation and creativity of Walt Disney Imagineering. From the HoloTile floor to the retractable laser lightsaber, these advancements have the potential to revolutionize the theme park experience. Whether you’re a Star Wars fan or just looking for a new adventure, there’s never been a more exciting time to be a part of the Disney universe.

So, what’s next for Disney Imagineering? Only time will tell, but with these incredible technologies and ideas in development, the future is looking brighter than ever. Whether you’re a fan of Star Wars, Marvel, or classic Disney magic, there’s something on the horizon that’s sure to delight. Stay tuned for more updates from io9 and keep exploring the magic of Disney Imagineering!

The use of technology in education has been a topic of debate for years. While some argue that it can enhance the learning experience and provide students with valuable skills, others claim that it can distract from traditional teaching methods and hinder student engagement. However, with the rise of online learning platforms and digital resources, it’s clear that technology is here to stay. So, how can we ensure that technology is used effectively in education?

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that technology should be used to supplement, not replace, traditional teaching methods. While online resources can provide a wealth of information, there is no substitute for the hands-on learning experience that comes from working with a qualified teacher. Instead of replacing teachers, technology should be used to support and enhance their work.

One way to do this is by using digital tools to provide personalized learning experiences for students. For example, online adaptive learning platforms can adjust the difficulty level of course materials based on a student’s progress, providing a tailored learning experience that meets their individual needs. This can be especially useful for students who may need extra support or for those who are advanced and need more challenging material.

Another benefit of technology in education is the ability to provide real-time feedback to students. With digital tools, teachers can track student progress and provide instant feedback on assignments and tests. This can help students identify areas where they need improvement and give them the opportunity to correct their mistakes before moving on to more advanced material.

In addition to these benefits, technology can also make learning more accessible for students who may not have access to traditional educational resources. For example, online courses and digital textbooks can provide students with the same high-quality education as their peers in more affluent areas. This can help level the playing field and provide opportunities for students who may not have had access to these resources otherwise.

However, despite these benefits, there are also potential drawbacks to using technology in education. One concern is that technology can be a distraction from traditional teaching methods, leading to decreased student engagement and attention. In addition, over-reliance on technology can lead to a lack of social interaction and communication skills, which are essential for success in the workforce and in personal relationships.

To address these concerns, it’s important to strike a balance between technology and traditional teaching methods. Teachers should use technology to supplement their teaching, rather than replacing it entirely. This can include using digital tools to provide additional resources and support, while still maintaining face-to-face interaction with students.

In addition, teachers should be trained in the effective use of technology in the classroom. This can include learning how to integrate digital tools into their teaching, as well as understanding how to use these tools to provide personalized learning experiences for students.

Finally, it’s important to recognize that technology is a tool, not an end in itself. While it can provide many benefits for education, it should be used in a way that supports the needs of individual students and promotes their overall well-being. This means balancing technology with other educational methods, such as hands-on learning experiences and social interaction, to create a comprehensive and effective education system.

In conclusion, the use of technology in education is a complex issue with both benefits and drawbacks. However, by striking a balance between technology and traditional teaching methods, providing personalized learning experiences, and training teachers in the effective use of digital tools, we can ensure that technology is used effectively to enhance the learning experience for all students.