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ACTIVATE BRINGS A UNIQUE FUSION OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND DIGITAL GAMING TO AMERICAN DREAM

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BERGEN COUNTY, N.J., July 28, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Continuing its rapid growth across the United States,  Activate–the indoor, interactive gaming experience–is excited to announce the opening of its first location on the East Coast, located within American Dream, expanding the entertainment and retail destination’s lineup of world-class attractions. Activate – New Jersey (American Dream) will celebrate its official grand opening on August 3, 2023, but is now open with limited hours for its soft opening period from July 28 to August 2, with 10 percent of sales during such period being donated to Activate’s national charity of choice, Best Buddies.

Activate New Jersey American Dream opens this summer
Activate New Jersey (American Dream) opens this summer and includes hundreds of way to play with friends and family, including popular game Mega Grid.

Activate offers a fun-filled experience for individuals, families, and groups seeking a new form of entertainment. A range of exciting high-tech activities tests physical and mental agility across a variety of real-life challenges, where gamers put their strategy and teamwork skills to use. Once inside, players have the option to choose from hundreds of combinations of games and difficulty levels, each lasting one to three minutes. Electronic wristbands track scores and progress, making Activate ideal for a casual night out with friends and family, or intense competition.

“Activate is known as a destination for fun and adventure, and we are thrilled to bring this to American Dream,” notes Bryce Anderson, Co-Owner of Activate. “Our new American Dream location is the perfect place for us to open our East Coast flagship. Activate boasts state-of-the-art technology and equipment. Visitors can expect an immersive, thrilling experience that will leave them wanting to return.”

Activate – New Jersey (American Dream) proudly unveils its sixth location in the USA, spanning 5,600 square feet and boasting 9 engaging game rooms. Among the most popular games is Grid, an interactive experience with 256 pressure-sensitive, color-changing tiles that challenge players to step on or avoid specific tiles to complete each round. Mega Grid, double the size of Grid, tests gamers’ quick thinking as they race to the right spot and freeze into statues at the perfect moment. New at the New Jersey location, Activate is introducing the latest game room, Strike, an innovative evolution of the fan-favorite Arena room. During their 50 minutes of playing time, guests enjoy the flexibility to explore all game rooms available during their visit, and are not tied to just one play style.

“We’re thrilled to add Activate to the growing list of unique experiences at American Dream,” said Don Ghermezian, American Dream’s CEO. “American Dream is constantly evolving its entertainment lineup to delight our multi-generational audience. This innovative concept that combines digital and sport-style games is truly the next evolution in attractions and will be an outstanding option for our guests.”

Activate – New Jersey (American Dream) is located in Court A, Level 1 by the Main Stage and will be open Sunday through Thursday from 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m, starting Friday, August 3. Ticket prices are $24.99 each and give access to the full facility for 50 minutes of playing time. Appointments can be booked in advance online at activate.games/newjersey or by calling (201) 636-7588.

Walk-ins are welcome upon availability. Activate requires a ticketed adult accompanying children 10 years old and under. For children between the ages of 11-13, an adult must be present at the facility throughout the gaming experience but does not need to be ticketed.

In addition to American Dream, Activate has five locations in the United States including Gatlinburg, Tennessee; Louisville, Kentucky; Lexington, Kentucky; Plano, Texas; and Oakbrook, IL, with additional locations opening in Houston, Texas, Birmingham, Alabama, and Atlanta, Georgia later this year.

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Activate Games will be the latest addition to American Dream’s world-class lineup of indoor attractions, which include DreamWorks Water Park, Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, SEA LIFE Aquarium, Big SNOW Ski Hill, The Escape Game, Dream Wheel, and exciting attractions coming soon such as The Game Room Powered by Hasbro and Skip Barber Racing Go-Kart Academy.

For more information about Activate and to purchase tickets, please visit www.activate.games/newjersey.

ABOUT ACTIVATE 

Founded in 2019, Activate is a state-of-the-art gaming facility with locations across the United States and Canada. Each Activate location offers a variety of unique gaming rooms for players to compete, earn stars and track achievements. Activate combines physical activity and gaming to create an immersive experience as part of a healthy lifestyle. To learn more about Activate, please visit www.activate.games.

Follow Activate Games on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/activategames/, Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/activategames/ and TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@activategames

ABOUT AMERICAN DREAM

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American Dream, developed by Triple Five Group, is an unparalleled mix of world-class entertainment, retail and dining, comprising more than 3 million square feet just minutes away from New York City in East Rutherford, New Jersey. American Dream is home to leading attractions, including DreamWorks Water Park, Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, SEA LIFE Aquarium, Big SNOW Ski Hill, Dream Wheel – a 300-foot observation wheel overlooking the NYC skyline, as well as attractions debuting soon such as The Game Room Powered by Hasbro and Skip Barber Racing Go-Kart Academy. American Dream’s immersive luxury shopping and dining experience – The Avenue – features Saks Fifth Avenue, Hermès, Saint Laurent, Dolce&Gabbana, Carpaccio, a fine-dining Italian restaurant, and much more. The retail collection is further expanded with flagship locations for Aritzia, H&M, PRIMARK, Uniqlo, Sephora and Zara; as well as the Toys”R”Us global flagship, the only standalone location in the U.S, and the world’s first and only “candy department store,” IT’SUGAR.  

For more information on American Dream, visit www.americandream.com or find us on Instagram @americandream and TikTok @americandream_official.   

SOURCE Activate

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Lucas Museum: Celebrating Narrative Art in LA

“Discover the captivating world of narrative art at the Lucas Museum in LA, founded by George Lucas and Mellody Hobson.”

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The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is a remarkable addition to the vibrant cultural landscape of Los Angeles, California. Established by acclaimed filmmaker George Lucas and his wife Mellody Hobson, the museum is poised to become a pivotal hub for visual storytelling across diverse artistic forms.

Lucas Museum
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art 

Lucas Museum

Nestled in Exposition Park, the museum features an extensive collection encompassing myriad artistic mediums. From striking paintings and evocative photography to intricate sculptures and compelling illustrations, the Lucas Museum is dedicated to celebrating the transformative power of narrative art, engaging audiences, and conveying profound messages through its exhibitions. As the museum evolves, it continues to enrich the conversation around art and storytelling, inviting visitors to experience narratives that resonate on multiple levels.

One of the standout features of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is its unwavering commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The museum aims to celebrate art from a multitude of cultures and backgrounds, giving voice to underrepresented narratives and perspectives. This focus on inclusivity is not only manifested in the museum’s eclectic collection but is also vividly reflected in its thoughtfully crafted programming and community outreach initiatives. By engaging with local communities and diverse artists, the museum fosters a rich dialogue that honors different traditions and storytelling techniques.

Designed by the acclaimed architect Ma Yansong of MAD Architects, the museum’s stunning building is a work of art in itself. Its unique and innovative architecture seamlessly integrates with the surrounding environment, creating a harmonious space that invites visitors to immerse themselves in the diverse world of storytelling. The dynamic design features flowing forms and open spaces, allowing natural light to play a crucial role in enhancing the overall aesthetic experience. This architectural masterpiece not only serves as a physical shelter for art but also symbolizes the fluid nature of narrative.

The museum’s website, lucasmuseum.org, offers a captivating glimpse into its vision and future exhibits, generating palpable excitement among art enthusiasts and fans of George Lucas’s cinematic legacy alike. It serves as a vital platform for engaging with the museum’s mission and provides ongoing updates about various programs and events that aim to foster a sense of community and anticipation leading up to its grand opening.

Lucas Museum of Narrative Art rendering
By Original work: Ma YansongDepiction: Lucas Museum of Narrative Art – http://lucasmuseum.org/media-room, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=56767852

The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art stands as a testament to the profound power of storytelling to inspire, educate, and unite people from all walks of life. It embodies George Lucas’s passion for narrative and creativity, creating a space where art can be experienced, appreciated, and understood in its many forms. The museum will not only display art but also offer educational workshops, lectures, and events that will enrich the visitor experience and promote a deeper understanding of narrative as a vital component of human experience.

As the museum prepares to open its doors, the anticipation continues to build, with Los Angeles eagerly awaiting the opportunity to explore the rich world of narrative art. The Lucas Museum promises to become a cultural landmark—an inspiring venue where imagination and creativity converge. It aims to be a place where the stories that shape our lives are not just preserved, but celebrated and explored, ensuring that the legacy of narrative art endures for generations to come.

The museum is set to open in 2025…

For more information please visit: https://lucasmuseum.org/

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Exploring the Top 10 Essential “Star Trek: The Next Generation” Episodes

Explore the top 10 episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation, featuring powerful stories, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes.

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Star Trek: The Next Generation

Star Trek: The Next Generation

As a lifelong fan of Star Trek: The Next Generation, I’ve journeyed through the stars with Captain Picard and his remarkable crew, absorbing the profound lessons and intricate storytelling that have come to define this iconic series. After watching all the episodes, I’m excited to share my selection of the top ten episodes, chosen for their storytelling quality and their impact on fans over the years.

1. The Best of Both Worlds

This exhilarating two-part episode redefined the stakes in Star Trek lore by introducing the sinister Borg, an alien collective that assimilated cultures into their own. The chilling narrative intensifies as Captain Picard is captured and transformed, culminating in a heart-stopping showdown that forever changed the landscape of the series. It’s a masterclass in tension and character development.

2. Yesterday’s Enterprise

In this gripping journey through time, the Enterprise-D is unexpectedly thrust into a parallel universe where the Federation is embroiled in conflict with the Klingons. The emotional return of Tasha Yar and the poignant sacrifice of the USS Enterprise-C convey deep messages about the costs of war and the weight of choices made. This episode beautifully explores the concept of parallel timelines and what it means to fight for a cause.

3. The Inner Light

Often hailed as one of the show’s finest achievements, this episode sees Captain Picard knocked unconscious and lives an entire lifetime in just a few minutes. It delves into love, loss, and the bittersweet nature of existence, leaving viewers with a profound message about cherishing moments and relationships. The storytelling here is a testament to the art of character-driven narratives.

4. All Good Things…

As the series finale, this two-part episode brings Captain Picard’s journey full circle. The narrative weaves together time travel, existential dilemmas, and the fate of humanity in a thrilling fashion. With beloved characters standing by, it offers poignant reflections on growth, friendship, and the enduring spirit of exploration, all while delivering a satisfying conclusion that fans cherish.

5. Chain of Command

This intense two-part episode confronts the harsh realities of warfare and the ethics surrounding torture. With Patrick Stewart delivering a performance that lingers in memory, Captain Picard’s capture and subsequent torment by the Cardassians elevate the discussion of morality in times of conflict. It poses challenging questions about humanity, resistance, and the choices we make under extreme pressure.

6. The Measure of a Man

This landmark episode scrutinizes the essence of sentience and rights of artificial intelligence as Data finds himself on trial to determine if he is a person or merely a machine. The thought-provoking dialogue and ethical dilemmas resonate deeply, prompting viewers to consider what it truly means to be human. It raises timeless questions that continue to echo in today’s discussions of AI.

7. Darmok

In a remarkable exploration of communication and cultural barriers, the Enterprise encounters an alien race that communicates solely through allegory and metaphor. This captivating episode demonstrates the challenges and triumphs of understanding between disparate civilizations, ultimately illustrating the universal need for connection. It’s an inspiring reminder of the power of language and empathy.

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8. The Offspring

When Data creates a daughter, we’re invited to explore profound themes of parenthood and the definition of humanity. The emotional depth of this episode, combined with Brent Spiner’s standout performance, makes this a heartwarming and impactful story about creation, love, and the responsibilities that come with it.

9. The Wounded

This thought-provoking episode addresses the moral complexities of warfare and the pursuit of vengeance. Captain Sisko’s struggle to stop a rogue Starfleet captain who is targeting Cardassian ships examines the toll that conflict takes on both sides and the lingering scars of resentment. It urges viewers to consider the ramifications of our actions and the possibility of redemption.

10. Cause and Effect

Caught in a gripping time loop, the crew of the Enterprise-D faces the challenge of breaking free from predestined events. This cleverly crafted episode provides thrilling suspense and delves into themes of fate and free will. The intricate storytelling, combined with a clever resolution, makes it a standout installment that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.

Conclusion

Star Trek: The Next Generation – All Good Things Blu-ray Trailer

These ten episodes exemplify the greatness of Star Trek: The Next Generation, showcasing powerful storytelling, richly developed characters, and the thought-provoking themes that inspire generations. Each episode has left lasting impressions and continues to resonate with fans, contributing to the enduring legacy of this beloved series. So, whether you’re a longtime follower or a newcomer, these episodes are a must-watch as they encapsulate the very essence of what makes Star Trek a cultural phenomenon. Boldly go where few have gone before!

Experience the full series on Paramount +.https://www.paramountplus.com/shows/star_trek_the_next_generation/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_Trek:_The_Next_Generation

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US states are finally starting to put in place protections for the kids of family vloggers

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vloggers
Laws protecting child actors were written long before the rise of social media. AzmanJaka/E+ via Getty Images

Jessica Maddox, University of Alabama

Ruby Franke was once one of the most popular YouTube family vloggers, posting videos featuring her husband and six children on her channel, 8 Passengers, that racked up over 1 billion views.

In some, she chronicled their family vacations and family activities, such as painting together. In others, she detailed how she banned her 16-year-old son from sleeping in his bedroom for seven months and threatened to behead a stuffed animal.

In August 2023, Franke was charged with child abuse and pleaded guilty four months later.

While the crimes that led to the charges, such as denying her kids water and handcuffing them for extended periods of time, didn’t appear on 8 Passengers, her children viewed the vlogging as a larger pattern of abuse.

In October 2024, 21-year-old Shari Franke, Ruby’s oldest daughter, testified to Utah lawmakers about what being a child influencer against her will had done to her.

“I come today as a victim of family vlogging,” Shari said, “to shed light on the ethical and monetary issues that come from being a child influencer.” She added, “If I could go back and do it all again, I’d rather have an empty bank account now and not have my childhood plastered all over the internet. No amount of money I received has made what I’ve experienced worth it.”

Her testimony took place just a few weeks after California passed a law mandating that a portion of proceeds from social media content featuring kids must be set aside in a trust for the child when they turn 18.

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I’m a social media researcher who’s spent the past two years advocating for the children of family vloggers. As recently as 18 months ago, I’d written about how there were no legal protections for the children of influencers, even as child actors have robust laws in place to protect their earnings.

Now that’s starting to change – but there’s still more work to be done.

New laws for a new age

Some children featured in their parents’ social media content go viral as toddlers; others have their first menstrual cycles broadcast to the world; and they can be pressured by their parents to be the talent that sustains their family’s financial livelihood.

California has the Coogan Act, which protects the financial interests of entertainers under 18. But this was passed in 1939, long before the rise of social media; until recently, there has been no comparable Coogan Act for the children of family vloggers.

In August 2023, however, Illinois became the first U.S. state to pass a law protecting the financial interests of the children of family vlogging. The bill requires parents to put aside 50% of the earnings for a piece of content featuring their child. The money must go into a trust that the child can access upon turning 18. If there’s no money available for them, they can sue their parents.

Minnesota was the next state to pass this kind of legislation, in May 2024. This one went beyond financial considerations, prohibiting children under 14 from appearing in more than 30% of their parents’ social media content. If children do appear in these videos and the videos are monetized, money must be put into an account, similar to Illinois.

In December 2023, I consulted with legislators on drafts of California’s measure. This bill, which was signed into law in September 2024, is similar to Illinois’ law but has been considered an important step in regulating family vlogging content given the state’s relationship with the entertainment industry.

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Work is work

These laws are not geared toward the casual parent who wants to share a picture of their child on Facebook or Instagram. They’re putting guardrails in place for a form of child labor that, until recently, has gone wildly unchecked.

In the spring of 2024, I provided written testimony to the state of Missouri, which was considering its own law. I pointed out that there are more than 500 hours of video uploaded to YouTube every minute, TikTok boasts more than 150 million active monthly users in the U.S. alone, and Instagram users watch 17.6 million hours of Reels per day. I explained how, over the past decade, I’ve interviewed over 150 content creators and influencers – and I’ll often hear them say they’ve been paid upward of $8,000 per post.

Brand sponsorships remain a gray area in these laws; most of the new legislation encompasses only payments directly from platforms. But I want to emphasize that we’re not talking about a few extra bucks here and there. It can be enough money to raise a family. And it’s work – for everyone involved.

What’s next

Illinois, Minnesota and California may have passed laws, but the issue remains on the table elsewhere.

Washington state has tried to introduce such a bill, and Shari Franke’s testimony came as Utah begins considering its own legislation. https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y2xi4-IMnTc?wmode=transparent&start=0 Ruby Franke’s oldest daughter, Shari, testifies before the Utah Legislature in October 2024.

However, I believe that any work on combating the problem of exploiting children for social media demands a holistic approach.

Importantly, children cannot consent to appearing in their parents’ content. While it may seem fun to appear in mom or dad’s video, young children have no concept of the internet’s dangers. They don’t understand that content can move beyond its intended audience. They don’t understand that the internet is forever – that one day, when they’re applying to college or for jobs, Google search results may yield their baby photos.

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In 2023, Maryland attempted to introduce legislation that would include Right To Be Forgotten provisions – an addendum allowing children to request social media platforms delete content about them when they turn 18. The measure never gained momentum, and the bill stalled. But states can look to the European Union, which has some of the strongest Right to Be Forgotten legislation in the world, for inspiration.

Social media platforms also have a role to play. If they wanted to, they could regulate or ban monetized content centered on children. That being said, family vlogging content is a moneymaker for platforms: It racks up billions of views, which keeps audiences on the hosting site, such as YouTube or Instagram, for longer. So you might assume that platforms would never intervene on their own if it risked hurting their bottom line.

But one thing I’ve learned from studying social media platform governance is that public opinion matters. And in my ongoing research on family vlogging, I’ve witnessed a massive shift in public opinion over the past two years, as the press pays more attention to the phenomenon, content creators and audiences are more critical of it, and former children of family vloggers, like Shari Franke, tell their stories.

If platforms can quickly churn out their own versions of AI chatbots, they can build teams to figure out how to help regulate and enforce family vlogging legislation in the U.S. – and have the opportunity, in my view, to be on the right side of history.

Jessica Maddox, Assistant Professor of Journalism and Creative Media, University of Alabama

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.

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