Entertainment
Unlikely Collaborators Hosts Dr. Lisa Kaltenegger for Spark Salon on Life Beyond Earth
Unlikely Collaborators is bringing astrophysicist Dr. Lisa Kaltenegger to Santa Monica for a conversation centered on one of science’s most enduring questions: Are we alone in the universe? The event, part of the organization’s Spark Salon series, took place on March 17 at 7:00 p.m. PT and was offered both in person and via livestream.
Kaltenegger, founding director of the Carl Sagan Institute at Cornell University and a professor of astronomy, is widely recognized for her work on habitable exoplanets and the search for detectable signs of life beyond Earth. Her talk focused not only on the science of planet hunting, but also on the assumptions people bring to questions about life, habitability, and reality itself.
According to the event announcement, the discussion examined how scientists interpret data from distant worlds and asked broader questions about what counts as life, what makes a planet habitable, and how human perspective can shape discovery. The program also highlighted how the search for life beyond Earth can challenge long-held ideas about what is normal, possible, and even alive.
The evening included a reception, the main program, and a book signing. In-person guests also received a complimentary copy of Kaltenegger’s book, Alien Earths: The New Science for Planet Hunting in the Cosmos.
Unlikely Collaborators, founded by Elizabeth R. Koch, describes itself as a nonprofit focused on helping people better understand themselves and the world through its Perception Box framework. The Spark Salon series regularly brings together researchers, artists, and thought leaders for conversations designed to challenge perspective and encourage reflection.
Related Links
- Unlikely Collaborators official website
- Event details: Are We Alone in the Universe?
- Dr. Lisa Kaltenegger’s book: Alien Earths: The New Science for Planet Hunting in the Cosmos
- Cornell profile: Dr. Lisa Kaltenegger
Source
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The Earth
Vancouver Aquarium and Aquarium du Québec Team Up to Expand Care for Rescued Sea Otters
Vancouver Aquarium will transfer rescued sea otters Hardy, Mak, Quatse and Taz to Aquarium du Québec in June, expanding Canada’s capacity for care.
A new partnership between two of Canada’s best-known aquariums is about to change what sea otter rescue and long-term care can look like nationwide.
On May 7, the Vancouver Aquarium announced it will transfer four rescued sea otters—Hardy, Mak, Quatse, and Taz—to the Aquarium du Québec in early June. The move supports the opening of Aquarium du Québec’s new sea otter habitat and creates much-needed capacity at the Vancouver Aquarium for future rescue cases.
Why this transfer matters
The Vancouver Aquarium works alongside the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society (VAMMR) to rescue and rehabilitate hundreds of marine animals each year across the Pacific Northwest. The goal for every patient is release back into the ocean—but not every animal can return to the wild.
In this case, the aquarium says its sea otters were rescued as orphaned pups and later deemed non-releasable by Canadian and U.S. government agencies. Without the chance to develop key survival skills, many orphaned otters can’t safely hunt, avoid predators, or navigate the risks of coastal life on their own.
By expanding sea otter care to Eastern Canada, the collaboration increases the country’s overall ability to provide specialized, long-term support for rescued otters—especially those that cannot be released.
Creating space for the next rescue
The Vancouver Aquarium notes it is currently the only aquarium in Canada with a sea otter habitat, which means its capacity is limited even as rescue needs continue.
“Our aquarium’s otter habitat provides a safe and enriching home—but it also has limits,” said Mackenzie Neale, Animal Care Director at the Vancouver Aquarium. “This transfer creates much-needed space for when the next otter needs our help.”
That “next otter” is not hypothetical. VAMMR responds to more than 300 marine animal emergencies each year, including rescues of sick, injured, or orphaned animals and the disentanglement of sea lions trapped by marine debris.
A new educational opportunity in Québec
For the Aquarium du Québec, welcoming sea otters is both a conservation milestone and a major visitor experience upgrade—especially for families and students in Eastern Canada who may never have seen sea otters up close.
“The Aquarium du Quebec is thrilled to introduce sea otters to visitors in Eastern Canada,” said Nathalie Julien Boucher, director of Aquarium du Québec. She added that because the animals were rescued from the wild, the habitat will offer “a fantastic educational opportunity while continuing our conservation mission,” as part of the aquarium’s Louphoque project.
Catch them before they head east
The Vancouver Aquarium is inviting guests to visit Hardy, Mak, Quatse, and Taz before May 31. Throughout May, the four otters will be on public display during weekend (Saturday and Sunday) operating hours.
If you can’t make it to Stanley Park, the aquarium says viewers can still follow their journey on the Sea Otter Cam.
What to watch for
- Early June transfer: Four otters move from Vancouver to Québec City.
- Expanded national capacity: More space in Vancouver for future rescues; new habitat in Québec for long-term care.
- Conservation storytelling: Two aquariums amplifying public education about sea otters and coastal ecosystems.
About the rescue work behind the scenes
The Vancouver Aquarium opened in 1956 and has connected more than 50 million people to ocean life. It is accredited by major animal care and conservation organizations, and it’s also Humane Conservation Certified by American Humane.
The Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society (VAMMR) operates Canada’s only dedicated marine mammal rescue facility. It is an independent registered charity that works in partnership with the Vancouver Aquarium, and donations support rescue, rehabilitation, and release efforts. Learn more at www.vammr.org.
Source: Vancouver Aquarium press release via CNW (May 7, 2026).
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Entertainment
Sharpie and Elmer’s Go “To Infinity and Beyond” With a Limited-Edition Toy Story 5 Collection
Sharpie and Elmer’s unveil a limited-edition Toy Story 5 collection—markers, S-Note highlighters, glue sticks, and slime kits—ahead of the film’s June 19 debut.
Sharpie and Elmer’s Launch Limited-Edition Toy Story 5 Collection
If your summer plans include crafts at the kitchen table, labeling school supplies before the first bell, or simply chasing a hit of nostalgia, Sharpie® and Elmer’s® just dropped something that checks every box. Ahead of Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5 theatrical debut on June 19, 2026, the Newell Brands staples are launching a limited-edition lineup inspired by the film’s iconic characters, colors, and “let’s make something” energy.
The idea is simple: take the everyday tools people already trust—markers, highlighters, glue sticks, and slime kits—and give them a Toy Story glow-up that feels equally giftable and useful. It’s designed for kids discovering the franchise for the first time and adults who grew up with Woody, Buzz, and Jessie.
What’s in the limited-edition collection?
The collection is rolling out nationwide at major retailers including Amazon, Walmart, and Target, timed for peak summer crafting and back-to-school shopping.
The Sharpie side
- Sharpie Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5 Permanent Markers Collectible packs featuring Toy Story 5character artwork and limited-edition barrel designs with the official film logo printed on each marker. The set leans into bold, film-inspired colors—think Buzz Lightyear greens and purples—built for everything from labeling supplies to character-inspired doodles.
- Sharpie Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5 S-Note Creative Highlighters A vivid, high-contrast set with a versatile chisel tip for both highlighting and creative lettering. It’s the kind of tool that makes note-taking feel less like a chore and more like a mini design project.
The Elmer’s side
- Elmer’s Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5 Glue Sticks The classic disappearing purple formula—teacher-trusted, kid-safe, and now wrapped in Toy Story 5 character designs for a little extra fun in the supply bin.
- Elmer’s Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5 Slime Kits DIY slime kits with themed glue colors, activators, and “out-of-this-world” textures and scents. Each kit is built to be an all-in-one experience: mix, customize, and take your slime creations “to infinity and beyond.”
Why this collab makes sense (and why it’ll sell)
Sharpie and Elmer’s are already part of the creative routine for a lot of households—school projects, office organization, crafts, and rainy-day activities. Newell Brands’ Kris Malkoski framed the partnership as a way to celebrate creativity in a moment that feels “nostalgic and fresh,” especially as families shift into summer mode and start prepping for the school year.
Disney echoed that creative angle too, with Lylle Breier (EVP, Partnerships Promotions and Special Events) calling Toy Story 5 a celebration of storytelling—and positioning the collection as a way for fans to express their imagination through hands-on making.
A :30 spot ties it into the movie’s marketing push
This isn’t just packaging and product placement. Sharpie and Elmer’s also collaborated with Disney and Pixar on a bespoke 30-second ad showing the collection in use, created to support the film’s theatrical marketing campaign. Translation: expect to see this collaboration show up where Toy Story 5 hype already lives.
Availability and pricing snapshot
The collection will be available in multiple pack sizes for different needs in and out of the classroom:
- Sharpie Toy Story 5 Fine Permanent Markers: 5ct (coming soon to Target.com); 12ct (coming soon to Walmart); 24ct (available now on Amazon) — MSRP: $4.99–$19.99
- Sharpie Toy Story 5 S-Note Highlighters: 12ct, 24ct — MSRP: $9.99–$19.99
- Elmer’s Toy Story 5 Glue Sticks: 4ct, 12ct — MSRP: $3.47–$7.49
- Elmer’s Toy Story 5 Slime Kits: 4pc, 10pc — MSRP: $19.99–$29.99
For shoppers, the timing is the point: the products are positioned as easy add-ons for summer gifting, creative downtime, and back-to-school lists—right before the movie hits theaters.
Quick Toy Story 5 refresher: “Toy meets Tech”
Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5 brings the gang back with a new twist: “Toy meets Tech.” Woody (Tom Hanks), Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen), Jessie (Joan Cusack), and friends face a new challenge when Bonnie gets Lilypad, a tablet device voiced by Greta Lee, with her own ideas about what playtime should look like.
The film is directed by Andrew Stanton, co-directed by Kenna Harris, produced by Lindsey Collins, and written by Stanton and Harris. Randy Newman returns with an original score—his fifth Toy Story feature.
The takeaway
Whether you’re a parent building a summer activity stash, a teacher restocking for fall, or a longtime fan who wants a small collectible piece of the franchise, the Sharpie and Elmer’s Toy Story 5 collection is built to be both practical and fun. It’s a smart, seasonal collaboration that turns routine supplies into something you’ll actually want to pick up—and maybe even keep.
If you’re shopping, look for the limited-edition collection at Amazon, Walmart, and Target ahead of Toy Story 5’s June 19, 2026 release.
Related Links
- Amazon (search/product landing for the collection): https://www.amazon.com
- Walmart (search/product landing for the collection): https://www.walmart.com
- Target (search/product landing for the collection): https://www.target.com
Brand / official info links
- Newell Brands (company info / press): https://www.newellbrands.com
- Elmer’s official site: https://www.elmers.com
About the Movie
- Disney (official studio hub): https://www.disney.com
- Pixar (official studio hub): https://www.pixar.com
STM Daily News’ Entertainment section delivers the latest on movies, television, music, pop culture, events, and industry buzz. From breaking news and trending stories to feature coverage and community-centered entertainment reporting, it keeps readers connected to what’s happening on screen, on stage, and beyond.
family fun
Sky Zone® Brings High-Flying Fun to Vallejo — Here’s What to Know About the May 9 Grand Opening
Vallejo families have a new way to burn off energy (and kick off summer) without relying on perfect weather. Sky Zone®, the indoor active entertainment brand known for trampoline-based attractions and all-ages play, is officially opening its newest park in Vallejo, California.
The new location at 105 Plaza Drive, Vallejo, CA 94591 opens to the public on Saturday, May 9, 2026, with an all-day grand opening celebration running 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST.
Grand opening perks: 50% off jump time, free SkySocks®, and prizes every hour
Sky Zone Vallejo is leaning into “show up and jump” energy for opening day, with multiple offers designed to make it easy for families and groups to try the park.
Here’s what’s on tap for May 9:
- 50% off play: Walk-in guests can get 50% off 120-minute jump tickets all day.
- Free SkySocks®: The first 1,000 guests receive complimentary SkySocks® (limit one per guest).
- Hourly grand prize giveaways:Eight total grand prizes will be awarded via random drawing (terms and conditions apply), including:
- Mega Party Packages (two-hour package for up to 10 jumpers)
- Extra Play Annual Memberships (daily jump time plus perks for a full year)
For parents looking for a low-lift outing, the combination of discounted jump time and hourly giveaways makes the grand opening a solid “try it once” moment.
A new indoor option for active play in the Bay Area
Sky Zone says the Vallejo opening is about more than adding another entertainment option—it’s about creating a place for families to connect and stay active together.
“Opening Sky Zone in Vallejo is about more than a new park, it’s about creating a space where families can connect, celebrate, and stay active together,” said Mike Revak, COO of Sky Zone. “As we head into summer, we’re proud to open our doors and welcome the Bay Area community to play, have fun, and create lasting memories.”
What you can expect inside Sky Zone Vallejo
The Vallejo park is built to serve a range of ages and comfort levels, with attractions that mix open jump space and structured challenges. Sky Zone highlights several experiences available at the new location, including:
- Freestyle Jump
- Ultimate Dodgeball
- Air Court
- Warrior Course
Whether you’re planning a family outing, a weekend activity with friends, or something to keep kids moving during summer break, an indoor park can be an easy go-to—especially when you want an option that works year-round.
Birthday parties and “Mega Party” packages
Sky Zone is also positioning the Vallejo location as a birthday-party destination, offering party packages that aim to reduce the planning burden for families. The park’s “Mega Party” packages are designed to cover the essentials—from setup to cleanup—so hosts can focus on the celebration.
Membership deal: Founder’s Annual Membership for $99 (limited-time)
For locals who expect to visit more than once, Sky Zone Vallejo is offering a Founder’s Annual Membership for $99, which includes a year of play and member perks. The park is also advertising limited-time birthday incentives, including $100 off a Mega Party.
To view current promotions, visit: skyzon e.com/vallejo-ca/#promos.
Event details: Sky Zone Vallejo grand opening
- What: Sky Zone Vallejo Grand Opening
- When: Saturday, May 9, 2026, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM PST
- Where: 105 Plaza Drive, Vallejo, CA 94591
For more information, visit skyzone.com/vallejo-ca.
About Sky Zone
Founded in 2004, Sky Zone began as Sky Zone Trampoline Park and has grown into a global indoor active entertainment brand. The company offers attractions, memberships, and group experiences designed for everyday play, birthdays, team gatherings, and after-school activities. Sky Zone has also been recognized in franchise rankings including Franchise Times lists and Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500.
For more information, visit skyzone.com or follow @skyzone on social media.
Related Links
- Sky Zone Vallejo location page: https://skyzone.com/vallejo-ca
- Sky Zone Vallejo promos (Founder’s membership / party discount info): https://skyzone.com/vallejo-ca/#promos
- Sky Zone main site (brand overview / find a park): https://skyzone.com
- Sky Zone on Instagram (social proof / updates): https://www.instagram.com/skyzone/
- Sky Zone on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialSkyZone/
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