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https://nerdist.com/article/pokemon-world-championships-2025-annoucements-updates/

This year’s Pokémon World Championships was one for the books with lots of announcements. The heart of the event centered around Mega Evolution. With the return of the battle gimmick coming later this year in Pokémon Legends: ZA, many of the various arms of the Pokémon franchise are pivoting to bring in Mega Evolution in some way. Several of the closing ceremony announcements involved Mega Evolution in some way. This included a new game mode in Pokémon Legends: ZA, new cards for Pokémon TCG Pocket, and a brand-new card rarity for the physical Pokémon Trading Card Game. But the biggest announcement was the “mega evolution” of the Pokémon World Championships itself, with a full-fledged fan event coming to San Francisco next year. (More on that later.)

Mega Evolution’s Place in Pokémon Games

Mega Evolution was first introduced in Pokémon X & Y and marked the first of the franchise’s “battle gimmicks,” which super-charge Pokémon battles in some way. These are temporary transformations to certain Pokémon that grant those Pokémon new forms, new powers, and enhanced stats. While Mega Evolution cycled out several games ago, the franchise is returning to Mega Evolution in Pokémon Legends: ZA.

The Z-A Battle Club: A Multiplayer Mode

Although the last Pokémon Legends game was a purely single-player experience, the Pokémon World Championships featured the reveal of a new multiplayer mode called the Z-A Battle Club. This new game mode is a four player battle royale mode that utilizes the game’s new real-time battle system, allowing players to attack and dodge instantly. The Z-A Battle Club mode will pit players against each other in three minute battles, with players also able to Mega Evolve to up their ante. If a Pokémon is knocked out, players return to the edge of the field with their Pokémon fully healed and able to either return to battle or be swapped out for another Pokémon on a player’s team.

New Card Game Updates Elevate Games to Another Level

Pokémon’s two card games both received significant updates tied to Mega Evolution. The physical Pokémon TCG previously announced that Mega Evolution was returning to the game via Mega Pokémon ex cards, but Pokémon World revealed that these cards would also have a new kind of alternate art cards. Mega Attack Rare cards feature fresh comic book-inspired illustration. This includes Japanese text meant to hearken back to old Mega Evolution cards from the XY era. Of course, one highlight of the upcoming era of Pokémon cards are new Mega Charizard cards. These will almost certainly be chase cards for collectors.

Mega Evolved Pokémon Are Coming to TCG Pocket

Additionally, Pokémon TCG Pocket announced that they would be introducing Mega Evolved Pokémon to the game, mirroring the physical card game. These new cards will be released around Pokémon Legends: ZA as part of a new “season.” Similar to their physical counterparts, these Mega Evolved Pokémon ex cards cost three points when they’re defeated, meaning that defeating one of these cards results in an automatic victory. Based on the brief glimpse we got of the cards in a trailer, these Mega Evolved Pokémon cards appear to be the strongest cards we’ve seen for the game so far.

Pokémon Champions Game Is in for VGC Competitions in 2026

For fans of competitive Pokémon video game play, next year will mark a brand new era. The Pokémon Company confirmed that VGC competitions at next year’s World Championships will use Pokémon Champions instead of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. This new game will allow players to use Mega Evolution via the new Omni Band, an item that can also be used to Terastallize and Dynamax Pokémon or let them use a Z-Move. Basically, the Omni Band means that all battle gimmicks will be in play in future VGC competitions, which could open the chess-like competitions to even more strategies in future years.

Additional Note: The only non-Mega Evolution-related announcement came from the smaller Pokémon Unite game, which is boosting its lineup of Pokémon with three new Water-type Pokémon. Fan-favorite Vaporeon is coming to the game along with Empoleon and Dhelmise. While Dhelmise (a ghostly anchor) is a bit of a surprise, it’s in keeping with Pokémon Unite’s tendency to feature less-heralded Pokémon in some way.

Pokémon World Championships Will Add Fan Event in 2026

The biggest but most vague announcement was that next year’s Pokémon World Championships in San Francisco will be accompanied by a new PokémonXP fan event. As one of the biggest franchises in the world, it’s always seemed odd how muted Pokémon is when it comes to fan events, with few places for Pokémon fans to gather outside of the competitively-minded Pokémon World Championships. Cognizant of this, the Pokémon World Championships have had a steadily growing number of pure fan events, ranging from small arts and crafts tents to massive drone shows held at night.

This new PokémonXP event looks to be the biggest Pokémon event of all time, with panels, workshops and the all-important “fan experiences” available for attendees to attend. Details about PokémonXP are vague, but this marks a big step for the Pokémon franchise as they’ve never had a place for fans of the franchise to gather in one space. In many ways, PokémonXP looks to be a Mega Evolution for the Pokémon fan experiences at the Pokémon World Championships, transforming fun moments for attendees into a full-blown fan experience that can be enjoyed over days instead of a couple of hours.

Although no new Pokémon or Mega Evolutions were revealed at this year’s Pokémon World Championships, it’s hard not to be excited about the state of the Pokémon franchise. Mega Evolution fans are especially feasting, but it seems like the Pokémon franchise is especially bustling with a new game coming out this year. The only real question is whether Mega Evolution is poised for another multi-year run at the heart of the franchise, or whether this is just a passing fad meant to help get fans by until the next games are released around the franchise’s 30^th anniversary.

The post Catch Every Pokémon World Championships 2025 Announcement Here appeared first on Nerdist.

https://www.blackenterprise.com/7-differences-between-millennials-boomers-home/

Boomers and millennials often hunt for homes in the same neighborhoods, but they are looking for very different things, NewHomeSource reports.

Why it matters: Understanding the generational divides between the two largest homebuying demographics can help to better understand and navigate today’s housing landscape. ​​

See More: Top 5 Places Millennials Want to Live in 2025

1. Size philosophy

Boomers: Downsizing but not downgrading. They want smaller footprints with nicer finishes.
Millennials: Compact but efficient spaces that maximize every square foot.

Read Next: The Gen Z + Millennial Dream Home: 5 Things Younger Homebuyers Want

“Boomers are usually drawn to single-story homes, or at least ones with a main-floor bedroom,” said Miko Pasanen, a licensed general contractor in Phoenix and Owner of Miko LLC. Having built homes and spaces for clients across generations, Pasanen has been able to see firsthand the distinct differences in how each group approaches housing priorities.

“Millennials are more likely to be okay with less square footage if the layout is open and the space is used efficiently,” Pasanen said.

Bottom line: Both generations are moving away from huge homes, but for different reasons. Boomers don’t want the upkeep. Millennials want to keep costs down.

2. Layout preferences

Boomers: Traditional layouts with separate rooms are still popular.
Millennials: Open floor plans and multi-use spaces top wish lists.

“Boomers generally know exactly what they want, and it’s low-maintenance, single-level homes with classic design choices that won’t feel dated in five years,” said Anna Tatsioni, Lead Interior Designer at Decorilla.

While Boomers want defined spaces, millennials gravitate toward flexibility. Many work remotely, making a good home office setup as important as the kitchen.

3. Location priorities

Boomers: Quiet neighborhoods, sometimes rural or suburban areas, where they can enjoy peace and space.
Millennials: Walkable areas with access to restaurants, parks, and public transit.

Learn More: Top 5 Priorities for Millennials When Picking a Place to Live in 2025

“Boomers are gravitating toward the tried-and-tested quiet streets, familiar neighborhoods, and sometimes even resort-style communities with all the amenities baked in,” Tatsioni said.

“Millennials are after the in-between spaces. Not quite downtown, not quite the suburbs.”

The sweet spot for millennials: Neighborhoods where they can walk to a coffee shop but still have space for a backyard.

4. Technology integration

Boomers: Warming up to tech that makes life easier, like voice assistants or video doorbells.
Millennials: Beginning to expect smart features as standard.

“Millennials lean toward a futuristic vision of efficiency. Smart thermostats,app-controlled lighting, and voice-activated appliances,” Tatsioni said. “Their version of efficiency is rooted in convenience and control. They want their homes to feel like an extension of their phones.”

The technology gap is narrowing. Many new construction communities now include technology bundles that appeal to both groups.

5. Home as investment vs. lifestyle

Boomers: View homes primarily as long-term investments, prioritizing resale value and proven features that hold their worth.
Millennials: Treat homes as lifestyle statements, willing to sacrifice some resale potential for features that match their current needs.

Boomers typically choose neutral colors, classic layouts, and established neighborhoods because they know these elements appeal to future buyers. They’re thinking about the next sale even as they move in.

Millennials are more likely to personalize a space, with resale considerations taking a back seat. They’ll paint accent walls, install unique fixtures, or choose quirky neighborhoods because the home needs to work for their life right now.

6. Space functionality

Boomers: Want enough room for guests and hobbies, plus storage solutions.
Millennials: Need flexible spaces that can evolve. Home offices that can into nurseries, guest rooms that double as gyms.

“Millennials are often balancing multi-generational living with younger children in the home and aging parents who may need additional care,” said Nicole Willits, Product and Sustainability Manager at Pella Corporation. “General household size, flex space, and maximizing the floor plans of homes matter quite a bit to the average millennial family.”

7. Maintenance expectations

Boomers: Want low-maintenance features and quality construction. Being able to age in place is a high priority. Many buy new homes to avoid renovation headaches.
Millennials: Willing to take on previously owned homes and tackle improvements themselves.

“Boomers have higher percentages buying new homes to avoid renovations and maintenance issues,” Willits said.

Millennials often compete for fixer-uppers while Boomers gravitate toward move-in-ready properties.

Where they surprisingly agree

Despite their differences, both generations share some common ground.

• Simplicity matters: Both are moving away from clutter. “They want their homes to feel calm, considered, and curated,” Tatsioni said.
• Community counts: Both value neighborhood connections, though they define community differently.
• Outdoor space: Boomers and Millennials value having an outdoor living area.
• Natural materials: Warm neutral palettes and organic textures appeal to both groups.

The bottom line: These two powerful demographics continue shaping housing demand in overlapping markets, and understanding these generational preferences can help explain why some homes fly off the market while others sit for months.

NewHomeSource is a website for homebuyers searching for new construction homes and communities.

This story was produced by NewHomeSource and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.

RELATED CONTENT: Dream of Homeownership But Afraid Of The Credit Check? These Mortgage Lenders Can Handle Bad Scores.

https://www.blackenterprise.com/black-owned-childrens-clothing-brands/

The start of a new school year is just around the corner, and back-to-school shopping is in full effect. These Black-owned brands are your go-to for children’s wear needs. These designers showcase trendy and stylish clothing options for a range of age groups. They cover the bases for essential school attire. BLACK ENTERPRISE did the research—each brand is highly regarded in both parenting and fashion circles for its products and influence.

Candid Art

Candid Art was established in 2011 in Oakland, California, by Candice Cox. Candid Art is a brand that specializes in lifestyle products featuring Afro-modern designs and hand-drawn patterns. The brand offers a range of quilted jackets and jumpsuits, alongside various accessories and more offerings for customers to enjoy. The creation of Candid Art Kids represents a celebration of creativity, providing children with a means to express their cultural identity through fashion choices. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/DFTStGCTtKH/?igsh=MXhyNms4NnNmeDg2aA==

Kamso

Seyi Sokoya heads Kamso, a UK-based company established in 2019. Kamso specializes in children’s clothing for ages 0 to 12 years old. Clothing is crafted from sourced Ankara and organic cotton materials in Nigeria. Their product line features a range of tunics, jumpsuits, and outerwear. Kamso incorporates responsible manufacturing practices and gender-neutral African-inspired designs.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DFnn1RXo-Cs/?igsh=MThxc3N6NHI3YTd4MA==

Kido Chicago

Founded in 2016 in Chicago by Keewa Nurullah and Doug Freitag, Kido Chicago is a brand that spreads positivity with its clothing. Kido carries a range of items, including tees and accessories featuring messages such as “Future Leader” and “Put on the Positive!” The core mission of Kido Chicago is to inspire children and the local community through their apparel collection inspired by the history of Black Wall Street.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C_YZP-LAsOd/?igsh=MTVvZTd4MXR4dWFkYQ==

Ade + Ayo

A company called Ade + Ayo was established in 2020 in Oakland, California, by Temidayo Odusolu, who later welcomed Ezi Jemie on board. Ade + Ayo specializes in creating children’s clothing with designs inspired by Nigerian and West African influences. Their collection features onesies, tops, and bottoms. A key goal of Ade + Ayo is to address the lack of diversity in mainstream children’s apparel by encouraging families to embrace their cultural identity and share their unique stories with others.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DD-ModmyBDI/?igsh=bGF2OWo0cmJpbmd5

Cozy N Cute Kids Boutique

Cozy N Cute Kids Boutique was established in 2019 by Priscilla Wesson. The brand features a collection of graphic sets and dresses, along with accessories that cater to babies up to tweens. Its goal is to celebrate individuality and style while championing Black women in the fashion industry and to ensure that each child’s ensemble reflects their personality.

https://cozyncutekidsboutique.com/pages/about-us

Miles and Milan

Shennel Fuller started Miles and Milan as a brand that focuses on basic essentials such as t-shirts and joggers for children in a color scheme and style that is minimalistic. Oprah recognized Miles and Milan for providing modern parents with fashionable, yet timeless options, free from the typical stereotypes often associated with kids’ clothing.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cur3mU5R2Z5/?igsh=ZmFxdmVqNTdocG81

Le Petit Organic

Le Petit Organic, originally known as Le Petit Elle, was founded in 2016 by Sanjay in New York City. The brand provides a variety of vintage-inspired clothing, such as dresses, rompers, and tees that are made from eco-friendly materials. The distinct combination of designs with a commitment to the environment makes Le Petit Organic an ideal option for families looking for both fashion and sustainability initiatives.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CKsPTj_n6DB/?igsh=MWFtbGV2cm9rZWpxcw==

RELATED CONTENT: ‘Married to Medicine’ Star Dr. Jackie Makes Medical Wear Fashionable With New Collection

https://www.blackenterprise.com/8-black-owned-tea-brands/

There’s really never a wrong time to enjoy a good cup of Black-branded tea. From eye-opening bold flavors to those gentle herbal concoctions that help you drift off at night, these creative entrepreneurs have truly mastered the art of tea. Take a peek at these awesome tea brands that definitely deserve a spot in your kitchen cabinet. Your taste buds will thank you! BLACK ENTERPRISE put together a fantastic list of eight Black-owned tea companies, featuring some seriously delicious blends that are perfect for those moments when you need to unwind. 

BLK & Bold

BLK & Bold Founders Pernell Cezar and Rod Johnson launched their tea biz in 2018. One of their signature teas, Chamomile CitrusSuper, is relaxing with just enough citrus zing to brighten your day. This tea brand is worth sipping because they’re not just selling amazing beverages — they’re actually making a difference! They donate 5% of their sales to support young people through various programs and job training initiatives. So, when you’re sipping on their premium teas, you can feel good knowing your purchase is helping build stronger communities.

https://www.instagram.com/blkandbold?igsh=MTY0NWM1YWdweHkxaw==

Moy Bien Tea

Moy Bien Tea was founded in 2020 by the mother-daughter team of Faybein Moy and Jasmin-Ayana Moy. They’ve created some truly delightful signature blends, such as their refreshing Deshe (Green) Tea and the bold, flavorful Black Hebrew Blend herbal infusion. What makes their tea extra special? Beyond just tasting great, they’re pouring back into the community by donating 5% of every purchase to support at-risk youth. Each carefully crafted blend isn’t just about taste, it’s about inspiring people and boosting wellness in your daily cup!

https://www.instagram.com/moybientea?igsh=cWJoZzB0dHltamx4

Good Thoughts Tea Company

Good Thoughts Tea Co. was born in 2014 when Founder Ebone’ McCloud decided to share her passion for healing herbs. Her signature blends include the mesmerizing Holy Wata — a soothing blue tea created to honor ancestors and open spiritual spaces. She also crafted a tea, Open Space, an energizing herbal blend that kick-starts your system while promoting whole-body wellness. Why sip on these special brews? Well, Good Thoughts isn’t just about tasty teas — they’re deeply focused on the natural healing power of herbs, helping you heal from your core. 

https://www.instagram.com/goodthoughtsteaco?igsh=Zjc5MHAxd3I3N250

Just Add Honey Tea Company

Founded in 2006 by Brandi Shelton, Just Add Honey Tea Company serves up some truly mouth-watering blends. Ever tried their “Berries on the BeltLine?” It’s this amazing mix of spicy and sweet that’ll wake up your taste buds! Their Cacao tea is another knockout — so refreshing and invigorating with a rich chocolate flavor. What makes their teas special? Brandi draws inspiration from her travels and family traditions to create these fun, imaginative blends. You can really taste the love in every cup — each sip feels like a little moment of joy in your day. Trust me, these aren’t your average boring teas!

https://www.instagram.com/justaddhoney?igsh=MWRvbTloNndkem9ibA==

Hella Tea

Hella Tea Oakland isn’t your average tea shop — it’s a loose-leaf tea company with serious hip-hop vibes. Founded in 2017 by Chantrelle Edwards, they’ve got some pretty unique signature blends. Its 93 ‘Til InfiniTEA is this amazing fruity mix that pays homage to Souls Of Mischief, while their E-4TEA will straight up wake you up with its Hella high caffeine content. What makes them special? They perfectly capture that Bay Area energy and blend it with old school hip-hop culture. It’s like sipping on nostalgia with a fresh Oakland twist!

https://www.instagram.com/hellateaoakland?igsh=d2JsMmY2dnY5NHgw

Brooklyn Tea

Brooklyn Tea was born in 2017 when Alfonso “Ali” Wright and Jamila McGill decided to turn their passion for tea into something special. If you stop by their charming Bed-Stuy teahouse, you’ve got to try their signature blends! Well-kanda is incredibly refreshing with its smooth, sweet flavor that’ll have you coming back for more. Feeling stressed? Their All A Dream tea might be just what you need, with its lovely blend of ashwagandha and valerian root that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day. What makes the Brooklyn Tea brand truly unique is how they’ve created this warm community space. More than just serving great tea, they’ve created a place where people connect by steaming cups.

https://www.instagram.com/brooklyntea?igsh=OWR4ZXRxMG1kMWE5

Calabash Tea + Tonic 

Calabash Tea + Tonic was brought to life by Sunyatta Amen in 2008. They’re known for the “Sunyatta Amen Supreme Teas” collection. These handcrafted herbal blends draw from the rich heritage of Africa, the Caribbean, and Latin America, creating teas that do more than just taste good; they’re made to nurture your whole self: body, mind, and spirit.

https://www.instagram.com/calabashtea?igsh=a2UybGlqcXY4NTFs

Teatopia

Reginald Quarles kicked off Teatopia in 2017, and it’s been a hit ever since. Their famous Golden Chai is bold and spicy — definitely worth trying if you’re into that kind of thing. They’ve got an amazing variety of teas, and they live by the motto: “Brewing better lives one leaf at a time.” It’s not just about the tea for them, you know?

https://www.instagram.com/teatopiastl?igsh=MWprMXdyc25mZjRhag==

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