Michaels and Primary Boost Sales by Catering to DIY Halloween Costume Trends

DIY Halloween Costumes Drive Sales Growth

Michaels and Primary have experienced a significant sales increase by tapping into a growing trend: customers making their own Halloween costumes. A recent survey of 1,000 Michaels shoppers revealed that 60% of people plan to create DIY costumes this year, reflecting a notable rise from 53% just last year. This shift underscores how more shoppers are opting for creativity and cost savings as they prepare for Halloween.

DIY Halloween costumes at Michaels and Primary

Retailers Tap into the DIY Spirit

Both Michaels and Primary have responded by expanding their offerings for DIY enthusiasts. They provide materials, inspiration, and easy-to-follow guides for creating unique costumes at home. By aligning their marketing and product selection with this consumer demand, these retailers not only boost sales but also build stronger connections with creative shoppers. As families look for budget-friendly and personalized costume options, retailers that cater to the DIY trend are poised for continued success.

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Emirates Cargo Plane Accident in Hong Kong Claims Two Lives

A tragic incident struck Hong Kong International Airport as an Emirates cargo plane arriving from Dubai skidded off the runway and plunged into the sea. The accident happened shortly after landing, resulting in the loss of two ground crew members’ lives. Authorities responded swiftly to the scene, launching a rescue and investigation operation.

Emirates cargo plane accident at Hong Kong International Airport

Details of the Emirates Cargo Plane Crash

The aircraft had just completed its journey from Dubai when it veered off the runway under unclear circumstances. Eyewitnesses reported a loud crash as the plane’s landing gear failed to hold, sending the aircraft off course and into the nearby waters. Emergency crews rushed to extract the crew and assess the damage.

Impact and Ongoing Investigation

The tragic loss of ground crew members has shocked the aviation community. Hong Kong officials have launched a thorough investigation into what caused the plane to lose control. Emirates has expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims and is cooperating with authorities. The incident highlights the importance of stringent safety protocols at busy international airports.

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Should King Charles Decide on Prince Andrew’s Dukedom? Government Weighs In

The debate over Prince Andrew’s dukedom has intensified as calls mount for changes to the rules that could allow for the removal of his royal title.

Government Defers to Royal Family

In a recent statement, Bridget Phillipson, a government minister, emphasized that the decision should be led by the royal family. She stated that the government will be ‘guided by the royal family’ regarding any legislative moves to strip Prince Andrew of his titles. This comes after growing public and political pressure for rule changes in light of ongoing controversies surrounding the prince.
Prince Andrew government royal family news

What’s Next for Prince Andrew?

The question of whether to remove Andrew’s dukedom has sparked a wider conversation about the monarchy’s role and the process for managing royal titles. The government’s current position is to respect the monarchy’s internal decisions before considering legislative action. Any potential law changes would, therefore, likely follow direct guidance from King Charles and senior royals.

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X Updates Link Previews to Keep Users Engaged in the Feed

X (formerly Twitter) has introduced a new feature for iOS users that changes how links open within the app. Instead of letting linked webpages take over the whole screen, X now keeps the like, reply, and repost buttons visible when users tap a link. This update aims to boost engagement by allowing users to interact with posts even while viewing external content.

X changes how links work to keep engagement high

What’s Changing on X?

Previously, when you clicked on a link in X, the app would open the webpage in full screen, blocking out all interaction options. Now, you can still see and use the like, reply, and repost buttons at the bottom of your screen while browsing external links. This new approach keeps the core X features accessible and encourages users to stay active on the platform.

Why This Matters

By keeping engagement tools visible, X hopes users will interact more with content, rather than just clicking away. This experiment is currently rolling out on iOS and could expand to other platforms soon. If successful, this change might become a permanent feature, reshaping how users experience external links on X.

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Top Six Halloween Live Music Events in Portland, Arundel, Kittery, and Bath

Halloween is fast approaching, and Maine is buzzing with excitement! Six unforgettable Halloween live shows will light up Portland, Arundel, Kittery, and Bath this season. Music lovers and thrill-seekers can look forward to a variety of performances, from classic rock covers to spooky-themed original tunes.

Experience Portland’s Spooky Vibes

Portland’s iconic Space venue will host its annual Halloween party on October 31. This year, the event brings together four dynamic bands, promising a night full of music, dance, and eerie fun. The atmosphere will be electric, with costumes, themed drinks, and spooky decorations making it a must-attend event for locals and visitors alike.

Halloween Live Music Show in Portland

Meanwhile, Arundel, Kittery, and Bath are not far behind. Each town will showcase live performances at celebrated venues, ensuring everyone can find a show that fits their Halloween spirit. Whether you enjoy haunting melodies or lively party anthems, these events offer something for everyone.

Get Ready for a Haunting Good Time

Dress up, gather your friends, and prepare for a night filled with music, laughter, and a touch of fright. Don’t miss out on these top Halloween live shows in Maine—they’re guaranteed to make your spooky season memorable!

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Why Black Watches Are the Hottest Trend in 2024

Black watches are dominating the style scene in 2024, and enthusiasts everywhere can’t get enough of their sleek, stealthy look. These timepieces offer a modern edge that blends perfectly with both casual outfits and formal attire.

The Rise of Stealth Mode Watches

Watch collectors and fashion-forward individuals are gravitating towards all-black designs for their minimalist, bold statements. Brands are rolling out new models that prioritize aesthetics, sometimes even over readability, making a clear statement that style comes first. Black watches trending 2024

Versatility Meets Attitude

Whether you prefer a matte finish, a gloss shine, or a mix of textures, there’s a black watch to suit every preference. These watches are not just about telling time—they’re about making an impression. The stealthy colorway offers a sense of mystery and sophistication that’s hard to beat in today’s fashion landscape.

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Top Gear: Stealth mode black watches are trending

How to Use WhatsApp’s New AI Image Generation for Status Updates

WhatsApp has introduced an exciting new AI-powered tool that lets users generate unique images for their status updates. This feature, currently available to a limited group of users on both iOS and Android, aims to make sharing on WhatsApp more creative and personalized.

WhatsApp AI Image Generation Tool Interface

What is AI Image Generation for WhatsApp Status?

AI image generation allows users to create visuals by simply describing what they want. You can type a prompt such as ‘sunset over mountains’ and the AI will create a customized image for your status update.

How to Create and Share AI-Made Visuals on WhatsApp

To use this feature, open WhatsApp and go to the status section. Look for the new ‘AI image’ option. Enter your description and let the AI generate a visual for you. You can then edit, preview, and share it directly with your contacts. This tool is rolling out gradually, so if you don’t see it yet, stay tuned for future updates.

AI-generated images add a fresh and fun way to express yourself on WhatsApp. As the feature expands, expect more creative possibilities for your status updates.

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Celebrate Halloween at Farm Wisconsin: Fun Events, Treats & Corn Maze in Manitowoc

Looking for a unique way to celebrate Halloween in Wisconsin? Head over to Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center in Manitowoc for two days of festive fun on October 25 and 31. The center transforms into a hub of Halloween excitement, offering an unforgettable experience for families and kids of all ages.

Halloween at Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center in Manitowoc

Halloween Activities for Everyone

Farm Wisconsin brings Halloween to life with costumed animals, fun games, and a corn maze adventure. You can meet adorable farm animals dressed up for the season, enjoy a wide range of local treats, and join in interactive games perfect for kids and families.

The best part? All of these activities come included with regular admission! Whether you want to conquer the corn maze, sample delicious snacks, or just soak up the festive atmosphere, Farm Wisconsin offers it all in a safe, welcoming environment.

Plan Your Visit

Mark your calendars for October 25 and 31, and get ready for a Halloween celebration with a Wisconsin twist. Grab your tickets early and bring the whole family to enjoy this memorable event at the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center.

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Apple Unveils New iPad Pro and MacBook Pro: Key Updates and Insights

Apple Launches Updated iPad Pro and MacBook Pro

Apple has just announced significant updates to its iPad Pro and MacBook Pro lineups, signaling a fresh wave of innovation for 2025. On Wednesday, Apple rolled out enhancements not only for its widely popular iPad and MacBook lines but also touched on advancements in its Vision category. These changes aim to keep Apple’s products at the forefront of technology and user experience.

Apple Unveils New iPad Pro and MacBook Pro

The Current State of iPad and MacBook Pro

The new iPad Pro brings advanced features designed for professionals and creatives, reinforcing Apple’s commitment to providing high-performance tools for its users. The company continues to refine the iPad lineup, ensuring it meets the needs of both casual users and those seeking powerful computing on the go.

Meanwhile, the updated MacBook Pro models offer improved performance and enhanced display technology, making them ideal for content creators and professionals. These updates reflect Apple’s strategy to maintain its leadership in the tech industry by focusing on innovation and user-centric design.

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Vintage Cleveland Halloween Postcards: A Nostalgic Look Back

Discover Cleveland’s Halloween History Through Vintage Postcards

Step back in time and experience Halloween in Cleveland like never before! The first edition of Postcards From the Ledge dives into the city’s rich past, featuring charming vintage postcards that highlight how residents once celebrated this spooky season. These classic images capture the imagination, costumes, and community spirit from Halloweens gone by.

Vintage Halloween postcard from Cleveland

Social Media Before the Internet: Postcards as Time Capsules

Before Instagram and Facebook, postcards served as the social media of their day. Clevelanders used them to share festive greetings, spooky artwork, and personal messages. The collection featured in this series offers a unique window into the city’s celebrations and shows how traditions have evolved while the spirit of Halloween remains strong.

Relive the magic of old-school Halloween and see how Clevelanders of the past marked the occasion. For more vintage postcards and a deeper dive into Cleveland’s Halloween history, visit the full feature.

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