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Amazon's Rustic Lighted Farmhouse Vase 'Adds Vintage Charm' to Any Room for $30

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 12:15pm

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It's the little touches that make a house a home. Leaning into the cozy farmhouse aesthetic is an easy way to give your living space that lived-in feeling. The trend's vibe is warm and inviting, drawing on rustic and down-to-earth elements to convey a vibe that's comfortable with a dose of countryside appeal.

A piece like the Fiahosey Lighted Farmhouse Vase effortlessly captures that spirit, casting a soft glow that instantly shifts any room in a more relaxed direction. It's compact, but still noticeable enough to have an impact on the room. Down from $47 to only $30 right now, this distinctive accessory is perfect for elevating any space year-round.

Fiahosey Lighted Farmhouse Vase, $30 (was $47) at Amazon

The best part about this decor is that it's a one-and-done accent that does all of the work for you. It comes with a bundle of four artificial eucalyptus sprigs paired with delicate fairy lights, all nestled in a lantern-inspired glass vase. The dark brown, weathered metal frame adds old-world authenticity to the homey design. The effect is comforting, making this a gorgeous addition anywhere from a bedroom to a living room.

At just under a foot tall, it's also sized just right. While its silhouette is substantial, the vase doesn't steal attention from other features. It fits right into busier rooms, organically blending in with other details to ground the space. On more sparse surfaces, like a kitchen island or an entryway table, it catches the eye just enough to serve as a beautiful focal point.

Related: Amazon's 'Very Soft' $39 Vera Bradley Plaid Throw Is Giving Major Cozy Cabin Vibes

Perfect for winding down after a long day or setting the tone for a relaxed evening, this vase doubles as a very gentle, atmospheric light. It emits subtle illumination and enhances the ambiance, so it can work just as well for mood lighting as it can to give your home that on-trend farmhouse makeover.

It's convenient to position virtually anywhere thanks to its practical features. Powered by replaceable button batteries, it keeps its glow going without the need for unwieldy cords. It's also equipped with three settings, so you can set the lights to flicker based on your preferences. Whether you're after a light twinkle or more radiance, this little light makes any space shine. 

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"It adds vintage charm to any space," said one shopper. Another person agreed, calling it "beautiful rustic decor," adding that the jar is "very sturdy." Don't miss the chance to save on the Fiahosey Lighted Farmhouse Vase and make your aesthetic vision a reality.

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Katie Thurston Shares Major Cancer Update One Year After Diagnosis

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 12:12pm

A former lead of The Bachelorette gave fans a highly-anticipated update on her cancer journey. Katie Thurston was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2025, and as she hit the first anniversary of the diagnosis, she revealed what her latest tests showed.

On February 17, Thurston shared a video on Instagram where she talked about what her test results were. In the caption, she excitedly noted, "One year later and still on my first line of treatment!"

Thurston noted that due to her cancer being diagnosed as metastatic, she expects to be on treatment for the rest of her life. While there are numerous treatment plans her doctors can try with her, the longer one plan is helping, the better.

Related: Bachelor Nation Star's Emotional Cancer Update Moves Fans to Tears

In the video, Thurston shared that her recent scans indicated that her cancer tumor was "stable." It had not grown, but as The Bachelorette alum noted, it also had not shrunk.

While being stable is a good thing, Thurston noted, "It's the first time in the year that my tumor hasn't been shrinking...which had me kind of spiraling a little bit."

Despite her initial spiral, Thurston explained that she'd talked with her oncologist and felt better about the results. She noted she had needed to take a couple of medication breaks, which could play a role in why the tumor hadn't shrunk.

Initially, Thurston thought the results indicated that her treatment plan was no longer effective, which scared her.

However, her doctor has determined that it is still working. A scan showed no new spread of Thurston's cancer, and overall, her tumor has shrunk about 50 percent in the past year.

Related: 'Bachelorette' Star Katie Thurston Shares Tearful Cancer Update: 'It's Very Hard to Be Positive'

In addition, Thurston told fans, she will soon meet with a surgeon to discuss plans for a double mastectomy. She has been planning to have this surgery for quite a while, but she's just now getting to the point where it is realistic to pursue given other aspects of her treatment plan.

Bachelor Nation flooded the comment section of Thurston's Instagram post with love and support.

Former The Bachelor star Susie Evans gushed, "Really proud of you Katie. Sending you so much love always."

Mikey Planeta, who was a contestant on Thurston's season, wrote, "So proud of you and inspired by your strength! Thank you for updating us. Praying for you always!"

A supporter added, "I admire you so much for using your voice and your platform to shine a light on what so many women in this country are facing. Your vulnerability is so beautiful, such a powerful force."

‘When Calls the Heart’ First Look: Rosemary’s Silent Film Changes Hope Valley (Exclusive)

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 12:12pm

With Christopher (James Drew Dean) in the wind, it's time to put the wildfire case on the back burner for a second while we shift our focus on to another aspect of the wildfire. The Coulters not only lost the national park named after their daughter, but Rosemary (Pascale Hutton) lost the playhouse Lee (Kavan Smith) promised to built it so long ago. In this week's episode, Rosemary's feelings of loss finally bubble up to the surface and in true Rosemary fashion she does everything with a bang. This time, she's staging not a play, but her first silent film and she's got everyone in the town involved in it as well.

Read on for more about Season 13, Episode 8 "Take Two" of When Calls the Heartand don't miss Parade's exclusive sneak peek.

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Can Rosemary’s bold new project help Hope Valley heal in the next episode of When Calls the Heart?

In "Take Two," this week's all new episode of When Calls the Heart, Hope Valley is captivated by the filming of a silent movie that sparks the imagination of the entire community.

Feeling the loss of her playhouse, Rosemary decides to direct a silent film and enlists everyone in town to participate in her creative vision. Meanwhile, Nathan makes a candid confession to Elizabeth (Erin Krakow) about the wildfire investigation. Wary of becoming entangled in a love triangle with Edie and Fernando, Lucas finds himself hesitant to open his heart again. 

What happened in last week's episode of When Calls the Heart?

In last week's episode "In a Jam," Nathan (Kevin McGarry) was building the case against Pioneer Electric by going with Christopher (James Drew Dean) to search for evidence, but a perilous incident threatened to put both their lives in jeopardy. Meanwhile, three proves to be a crowd for Lucas (Chris McNally), Edie (Miranda MacDougall) and Fernando (Juan Riedinger) as they wrangle a runaway Palomino.  When Minnie (Natasha Burnett) becomes overwhelmed by a last-minute order for her delicious jam, the Hope Valley community rolls up their sleeves and comes together to help. 

While both Nathan and Christopher survive being nearly run over by a would-be henchmen of Pioneer Electric, Christopher is taking no chances and disappears into the night, leaving Nathan's case without a witness and hanging by a thread without one.

Related: All the Spoilers From ‘When Calls the Heart’ Season 13 Episode 4

When does When Calls the Heart Season 13, Episode 8 stream?

When Calls the Heart's newest episode "Take Two" (Season 13, Episode 8) premieres on Sunday, Feb. 22 at 8 p.m. ET on Hallmark Channel and will be available to stream the next day on Hallmark+.

Related: 3 Babies in 6 Weeks?! A Massive Baby Boom is Blessing the Cast of ‘When Calls the Heart’—See Which Stars are Expecting!

When Calls the Heart Season 13, Episode 8 sneak peek:

In this Parade exclusive sneak peek of this week's episode of When Calls the Heart, Rosemary wants Elizabeth to star in her film. Take a look below.

Related: Who Started the Goldie National Park Fire on When Calls the Heart? All the Top Suspects

PARADE Exclusive - When Calls the Heart - Episode 13007 - Sneak Peek (0:53) Get a first look at images from the next episode of When Calls the Heart:

Take a look at some select images from the next episode of When Calls the Heart in the gallery below and don't forget to check out the Parade exclusive image as well!

When Calls the HeartEpisode 13008 - "Take Two" ©2025 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Jeff Weddell Martin Cummins Credit: ©2025 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Jeff Weddell Jack Wagner Credit: ©2025 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Jeff Weddell Kevin McGarry, Jack Wagner Credit: ©2025 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Jeff Weddell Johannah Newmarch Credit: ©2025 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Jeff Weddell Kevin McGarry, Erin Krakow Credit: ©2025 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Jeff Weddell Miranda MacDougall, Amanda Wong, Andrea Brooks, Juan Riedinger Credit: ©2025 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Jeff Weddell Ava Cooper, Kavan Smith, Ben Rosenbaum, Pascale Hutton, Erin Krakow Credit: ©2025 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Jeff Weddell Ben Rosenbaum, Kavan Smith, Pascale Hutton, Amanda Wong Credit: ©2025 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Jeff Weddell Erin Krakow Credit: ©2025 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Jeff Weddell Ava Cooper, Kavan Smith, Pascale Hutton, Ben Rosenbaum, Amanda Wong Credit: ©2025 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Jeff Weddell

Hallmark Media

Juan Riedinger, Ava Cooper, Kavan Smith Credit: ©2025 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Jeff Weddell Kevin McGarry, Erin Krakow Credit: ©2025 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Jeff Weddell Erin Krakow Credit: ©2025 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Jeff Weddell Pascale Hutton Credit: ©2025 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Jeff Weddell

Related: Hallmark’s 2026 Loveuary Lineup Is Here—With New Movies Starring Sarah Drew & Alison Sweeney

General Hospital Shares First Look at Luke Spencer Tribute

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 12:03pm

The ABC soap opera General Hospital released a first look at its upcoming tribute episode honoring Daytime Emmy winner Anthony Geary, the actor best known for his iconic role as Luke Spencer.

The preview was shared on the official General Hospital Instagram account, which wrote, “Every memory leads back to Luke Spencer.

Join us this Friday, February 20th, for a very special (and emotional) episode honoring his legacy. @ABC@hulu#GH#GeneralHospital

View this post on Instagram

The special was first announced last month by TV Insider's Stephanie Sloan. The special is expected to reflect on Geary's long tenure on the ABC soap opera.

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Fans took to the comment section to share their thoughts and memories for the beloved daytime icon. One user wrote, “Thank You for the LOVE of a lifetime only begins to touch the surface of the authentic and deep impact you had on all of us who were lucky to witness the one in a lifetime you. Will cherish the memories forever Anthony Geary.”

A second viewer wrote, “Get the Kleenex ready ! 😢 Loved Tony Geary he was a phenomenal actor and was a legend on General Hospital. He will be missed greatly.!”

A third fan shared, “Laura and Luke's love story was and is the best ever, and I watched General Hospital since that one....Steve and Jesse”

Following his departure from General Hospital, Geary lived in Amsterdam with his husband, Claudio Gama, and largely remained out of the public eye, Geary died on December 14, 2025 due to complications from a scheduled medical procedure.

Geary first originated the role of Luke Spencer in 1978 and remained on the series until 1984. He returned to General Hospital in 1993 and continued in the role until his retirement in 2015.

In addition to Luke, Geary portrayed Bill Eckert, a cousin of Luke’s, from 1991 to 1993. He also reprised Luke Spencer on the spinoff series Port Charles in 1998 and General Hospital: Night Shift in 2008.

General Hospital  airs weekdays on ABC and streams weeknights on Hulu.

Savannah Guthrie's Mom Update: Sheriff Says Authorities Don't Have any Additional Video Footage From Nancy's Home

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 12:01pm

Savannah Guthrie's mom, Nancy Guthrie, has been missing since Sunday, Feb. 1. Authorities working the case believe that Nancy, 84, may have been abducted from her home in Arizona in the middle of the night.

On Tuesday, Feb. 10, the FBI released footage of a masked subject on Nancy's front stoop the night that she disappeared. The footage was obtained by Google from Nancy's Nest doorbell even though she didn't have a subscription.

As another week has passed without locating Nancy or finding the person or persons responsible for her disappearance, the public has been wondering if and when more footage would be released. Many social media users have been wondering if authorities have obtained footage of Nancy being dropped off at home by her son-in-law Tommaso Cioni, earlier in the night. Others are wondering if there's footage of Nancy being taken out of her home in the early hours of the morning.

In an interview with NewsNation's Brian Entin, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos clearly stated that there isn't anymore footage—at least, not yet.

"We've asked Google," Nanos told Entin. "They said...'Sheriff, we don't think we can get anything. But we'll try.'" Nanos said that he's "hopeful" that Google will be able to get more footage from the cameras at Nancy's home.

Nanos also said that the initial footage that was uncovered was only in police possession for maybe "two hours" before it was released to the public.

Elsewhere in the interview, Nanos called the subject at Nancy's front door a "monster."

READ NEXT:Savannah Guthrie’s Mom: Breaking Update From Sheriff Confirms Information About DNA Test

Katy Perry Is 'Smitten' With Justin Trudeau, Couple Has 'Gotten Much More Serious'

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 11:52am

Singer-songwriter Katy Perryand Former Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau have been officially dating since October 2025 (although the couple was spotted together before that, in both July and September of the same year). Now, several months later, new reports have indicated that the two are closer than ever.

Per Entertainment Tonight, a source has shared that Perry is "smitten" with Trudeau and that Perry and Trudeau "have gotten much more serious." The same source stated that Trudeau is encouraging and supportive of Perry and that Perry feels confident in herself within their relationship. The post by Entertainment Tonight also included a carousel of photos depicting the happy couple in various locations.

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Perry's romantic connection with Trudeau came as a bit of a shock to the public when it was made official, primarily because this relationship is quite different from her previous romantic attachments. Most notably, Perry has had two significant (and very public) relationships. The first was with comedian and actor Russell Brand, to whom Perry was married from 2010 to 2012.

The second was her long-term relationship with actor Orlando Bloom, which spanned 2016 to 2025, although the couple was at times on-again-off-again. Bloom and Perry also share a daughter, Daisy Dove Bloom, who was born in 2020.

Unlike both Brand and Bloom, Trudeau doesn't come from the entertainment industry—unless his 2007 role in the TV movie The Great War counts. Rather, Trudeau has had an extensive political career, most prominently serving as Prime Minister of Canada for just under a decade.

In fact, Trudeau's time in that office came to an end just a few months before he and Perry became official. Two years earlier, Trudeau separated from his wife, Sophie Grégoire Trudeau, after nearly two decades of marriage.

It is in part because of Trudeau's career background that the public was surprised by this romantic pairing. Nevertheless, several months into their relationship, it seems Perry and Trudeau are only getting stronger, which suggests that, despite the surprised reactions, the two make a good match.

'The Nanny' Star Fran Drescher Gives Upsetting Update on Returning to Sitcoms

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 11:46am

Fran Drescher dominated the TV landscape when starring in The Nanny sitcom that lasted from 1993 to 1999. While it has made her an icon, she looks back on the reality of filming and reveals she may not be returning to sitcom roles.

She sat down with Cheers star Ted Danson for an interview on his Where Everybody Knows Your Name podcast and admitted she has no desire to return to TV in the way that made her a household name.

"Well, I don't see myself doing another sitcom," she said, while Danson agreed, having received his own fame from playing sitcom character Sam Malone. Danson added that doing "three-camera live" tapings takes a lot of work and effort.

For Drescher, who recently starred in the Oscar-nominated movie Marty Surpeme, the main reason why she won't pick up another role in sitcoms is because of soundstage recording.

"You know, it's just the idea of going into the soundstage every day," she said. "The last one that I did wasn't my show. I played the mom in it, and I really didn't... I loved the people, but I didn't enjoy the experience that much because we were shooting it over the winter months."

She recalls often entering the soundstage when it was still dark outside and leaving the same way, and feeling like she "just lost the whole day." The Nanny star ultimately asked herself if that's the way she wanted to spend her day if it was her last, "and it wasn't."

Related: Tyra Banks Teases ‘America’s Next Top Model’ Will Return for Cycle 25: ‘My Work is Not Done’

Looking at her filmography, Drescher's last sitcom role was in the 2020 series Indebted. Created by Dan Levy, she played the main role of Debbie Klein, the mother of the main protagonist. The sitcom only lasted one season before cancellation.

While not revealing the name of the sitcom, she revealed, "I think just playing the mom in it, it just wasn't enough for me. And I felt like I could've been doing other things during my day."

Her stance doesn't mean she'll be gone for good, with her open to returning to sitcoms in a more creative capacity. Drescher would return if she wore "all of those hats" like her prior projects, such as writing and executive-producing.


'Wuthering Heights' Library Borrows Jump 241%: Why the 179-Year-Old Classic is 2026’s Most ‘Scandalous’ Digital Hit

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 11:43am

In the landscape of 2026 pop culture, we are witnessing a literary haunting. Emily Brontë’s 1847 work, Wuthering Heights, has surged to become the 8th most borrowed eBook and the 7th most borrowed audiobook for February so far. The numbers, provided by Hoopla Digital, signal a return to the Yorkshire moors: between December 2025 and January 2026 alone, borrows skyrocketed 241% for the eBook and 281% for the audiobook.

The reason for nostalgia is director Emerald Fennell, whose "Wuthering Heights"(stylized with intentional quotation marks) premiered on February 13. Starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, the film has polarized critics and audiences alike, driving readers to the source material to see exactly how much—or how little—of Brontë’s original energy remains. The buzz paid off: the film secured a massive $82 million global opening weekend— and has left audiences sharply divided.

Fennell, never one to shy away from provocation, famously promised a "scandalous and intoxicating" retelling that would strip away the "stuffy" Victorian layers of previous adaptations. Critics have been quick to pick up the mantle, with many noting that the film's departure from the source material, which include anachronistic latex costumes, feels more like a high-fashion fever dream than a period drama. The movie also features a soundtrack curated by Charli XCX.

For many readers, this is a revisitation of a text last seen in a high school classroom. But as the movie dominates social feeds, book clubs and readers who haven’t picked up the title since they were teenagers are returning to the classic novel. They are finding that the toxic allure of Heathcliff and Catherine hasn't aged a day, even if the medium has shifted from paperback to iPhone.

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Fennell has been characteristically transparent about her cinematic liberties. While the director stated this won’t be a typical retelling, but instead a stylized version of Heathcliff and Catherine’s story, fans looking to prepare for deeper discussion can find the eBook and audiobook on Hoopla Digital for free before heading to the theaters. Fennell explained the quotation marks in the title as a nod to the fact that a truly faithful adaptation is impossible. Instead, she has created a "version" of the story shaped by memory and emotion.

For the library-going public, this has turned into a digital scavenger hunt. The surge in Hoopla borrows suggests that while we want the Hollywood glamour of Elordi and Robbie, we still crave the original, unapologetic darkness of the Brontë sisters. Whether you're listening to the audiobook on your morning commute or scrolling the eBook before the trailers start, the moors are officially back.

Punk Rock Band Makes History With First-Ever No. 1 Hit

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 11:38am

Atlanta-based rock band The Paradox made history after notching their first-ever No. 1 hit on the Billboard Alternative chart.

The group's entry, "Get the Message," helped the quartet of musicians—comprising Eric Dangerfield (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Christopher "Xelan" Bernard (lead guitar, backing vocals), Donald Bryant (bass), and Percy "PC3" Crews (drums)—become the very first all-Black band in the genre to land in the top spot. The track first rose as the leader of the Billboard chart on Jan. 24, 2026, the music publication reported. At the time, it also appeared at No. 9 on the all-rock-format, audience-based Rock & Alternative Airplay chart with 3.4 million audience impressions in the week ending Jan. 15.

The Paradox first made a Billboard ranking when a video of them playing their track, “Do Me Like That,” in a backyard went viral on TikTok, racking up nearly 10 million views.

Related: '80s Rock Legend's No. 1 Best-Selling Song of All Time Released 43 Years Ago Today

@theparadoxband

‘Do Me Like That’ out now, link in bio🤟🏽🔥 #theparadox #pop #punk #subaru #domelikethat #band #newsong

♬ original sound - The Paradox

Currently, "Get the Message" is still charting, now holding strong at No. 5 on the Alternative Airplay chart for the week of Feb. 21, 2026. It follows sombr's "12 To 12" at No. 4, Mumford & Sons & Hozier's "Rubber Band Man" in third, Tame Impala's "Dracula," and YUNGBLUD's "Zombie" in the top spot.

In the song, they paid homage to another notable rocker with whom they collaborated on their 2025-released EP, NSFW. "Blink-182 is shouted out in the opening line of 'Get the Message.' The band boasts five Alternative Airplay No. 1s between 1999 and 2024. Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker is featured on one of The Paradox’s releases, 'Bender,' as well, and contributed production to the tune," the outlet points out.

Formed in June 2024, the musical act has already gotten stamps of approval from the likes of Green Day, who they opened for at their Truist Park stadium show, former The White Stripes rocker Jack White, and more.

Related: 1989 Classic Was a No. 1 Hit 36 Years Ago Today

This Simple Lineup Puzzle Is Trickier Than It Looks — Most People Can’t Solve It

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 11:37am

Think you’ve got sharp eyes and solid logic skills?

A deceptively simple lineup puzzle is making the rounds—and it’s frustrating far more people than you’d expect.

The challenge looks easy at first glance. Four people are standing in a straight line, labeled in order: 1, 2, 3, 4.

Your mission: Move just one person to reverse the entire order so it reads 4, 3, 2, 1.

Laser Hair Removalo

That’s it.
Only one move allowed.
No swapping two people.
No rearranging the entire group.

Just one person moves.

It sounds straightforward—but most people either overthink it or assume it’s impossible.

Take a moment to picture it before scrolling.
How would you do it?

Don’t scroll yet if you want to try it yourself.

Here’s the Answer

The trick lies in how you interpret “move.”

Laser Hair Removalo

Instead of swapping positions or shifting everyone around, the solution involves moving one person to a new position that changes the orientation of the lineup.

When the correct individual steps into the right spot, the entire sequence visually reverses without requiring multiple swaps.

It’s a reminder that many puzzles aren’t about complicated math or advanced reasoning — they’re about seeing the setup from a slightly different angle.

That subtle mental shift is what makes this brainteaser so satisfying once you crack it.

If you figured it out quickly, congratulations—your pattern-recognition skills are strong.

“Puzzles like this are a playful reminder that the smartest move is often the smallest one. If you can keep calm, scan the scene, and spot the single switch that flips everything, you’ll breeze through it," said Timca Pruijt, founder of Laser Hair Removalo. "This one feels impossible until it suddenly… doesn’t. When you see it, you can’t unsee it. If you crack it in under 15 seconds, you’ve got exceptional pattern-recognition.”

If not, don’t worry. These kinds of puzzles are designed to make simple instructions feel more complex than they really are.

9 Korean Skincare Staples Professionals Reach for Again and Again

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 11:30am

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Skincare fads come and go all the time, but there are a few tried-and-true routines that have stood the test of time. For instance, Korean skincare may have seemed like a passing trend when it first gained popularity in the U.S., but it has proven itself to have staying power. If you haven't already given it a try and are looking to do something different with your routine this year, Parade consulted Dr Liia Ramachandra, Pharm.D., Ph.D, and Dr. Debra Jaliman, MD to get their picks for the best Korean skincare products out there.

Ramachandra is a skincare expert, former pharma executive and the CEO/founder of the skin care brand Epilynx. Jaliman is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and the author of Skin Rules: Trade Secrets from a Top New York Dermatologist.

Both pros have dabbled in quite a few different routines over the years, including the Korean approach to taking care of your complexion. "Korean skincare isn’t just trendy—it’s effective because it treats the skin like an ecosystem, not just a surface," Ramachandra says.

Here, they break down what makes Korean skincare so beneficial, also sharing their personal favorite Korean skincare brands and products and why they're game-changers.

Related: Does PDRN Skincare *Actually* Have Salmon Sperm In It? Here’s What a K-Beauty Expert Says

Why Is Korean Skincare So Good? 

"Korean skincare has earned its place in beauty routines worldwide because of how it balances science, skin health and texture innovation," Ramachandra tells Parade.

For instance, you may have heard the term "glass skin" associated with Korean beauty in the past. Similar to a piece of glass that's clear and smooth, this term refers to skin that's moisturized and smooth, without noticeable pores.

When asked why Korean skincare is so effective, Jaliman notes that the ingredients are especially powerful. "The products use advanced formulations with high-quality, well-researched ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and fermented extracts," she says.

Ramachandra and Jaliman reveal the following attributes that make Korean skincare products so useful:

  • Multi-step routine: "They usually have a multi-step routine to improve hydration and barrier repair," Jaliman says.
  • Layered skincare approach: "Gentle layering (essence → serum → moisturizer → SPF) builds long-term skin health," Ramachandra says.
  • Cutting-edge ingredients: "Snail mucin, centella, ginseng, PDRN, niacinamide, ceramides and fermented extracts provide efficacy and gentleness," Ramachandra says.
  • Innovation meets tradition: "Formulas blend advanced biotech and centuries-old herbal know-how," Ramachandra says.
  • Customization for all skin types: "There’s a specific K-beauty routine whether you’re oily, dry, sensitive or aging," Ramachandra says.
Top Korean Skincare Products

Related: 7 Anti-Redness Products That Truly Work on Mature Skin, According to Dermatologists

Best Korean Skincare Brands To Look Out For  

There are a plethora of Korean skincare brands on the market, but Ramachandra is quite fond of the following options. "These brands reflect Korea’s commitment to skin health, creativity and ingredient transparency," she says.

  • COSRX: "It's a cult favorite for targeted serums and essences," Ramachandra says, noting that the key ingredients the brand relies on include snail mucin and BHA.
  • Dr. Jart+: The skin care pro is fond of this dermatologist-formulated brand, particularly the Cicapair and Ceramidin lines.
  • Laneige: Ramachandra enjoys this brand's "hydration heroes," like the Lip Sleeping Mask.
  • Beauty of Joseon: The skin care savant appreciates that this brand blends "traditions and modern actives" with ingredients ranging from ginseng to rice.
  • Medicube: Trendy PDRN serums and exfoliating pads are two of the signature products from this brand that Ramachandra recommends.
  • Peach & Lily: This brand's "clean, effective formulations" have won the seal of approval from Ramachandra.
  • Kahi: The skin care expert is a fan of this brand's "multifunction balms with anti-aging, hydrating benefits."

Related: The 12 Best Collagen Masks, According to Dermatologists

9 Best Korean Skincare Products, Tested by a Dermatologist Best Multitasker: COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, $25

Ulta

Ramachandra loves this skin care essence that the brand describes as a "multivitamin for your skin."

"Snail mucin is a powerhouse for skin repair and hydration," she says.

The hypoallergenic essence tackles skin dullness and dryness while easing the look of fine lines and wrinkles and plumping your complexion. It's formulated without parabens or phthalates and is suitable for all skin types.

Jaliman says the ingredients offer multiple benefits. "This product contains snail mucin, which has hyaluronic-like properties to hydrate and plump the skin by drawing moisture into the outer layers," she explains.

Related: Is ‘Skin Flooding’ Legit? A Board-Certified Dermatologist Weighs In

Best Sunscreen: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics (SPF 50+), $22

Amazon

"The biggest hurdle to sun protection is texture. This feels like a lightweight moisturizer, leaves no white cast and contains grain ferment lysate to nourish the skin barrier while protecting it," Ramachandra notes.

Offering SPF 40 protection, this sunscreen is a true multitasker that also hydrates skin. It's available in 12 sheer shades that mop up oil and stay put all day as you go about your business.

Jaliman appreciates the fact that the sunscreen offers broad-spectrum UV protection. "It shields against both UVA and UVB rays, which are the main causes of sunburn, photoaging and long-term skin damage," she says.

While she tends to prefer physical sunscreens over chemical versions, like this product, she notes that this one does contain glycerin, which she describes as "an excellent ingredient for hydration."

Best Lip Product: Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, $24

Amazon

"I suggest this to people with chronically dry lips. Its 'moisture wrap' technology uses hyaluronic acid and minerals to lock in moisture for eight hours while you sleep," Ramachandra says.

If you're dealing with dryness, dullness or loss of firmness/elasticity, this overnight mask is a worthy addition to your nighttime routine.

"This is a good lip mask for hydration. It contains shea butter, coconut oil and murumuru seed butter," Jaliman says.

Since the mask contains fragrance, Jaliman recommends doing a patch test first if you have sensitive skin.

Best Toner: Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner, $33

Amazon

"This toner is a game-changer for those with rosacea or acne-prone skin because it calms irritation immediately," Ramachandra says.

The paraben-free, vegan formula works overtime to tone, soothe, hydrate and balance skin's pH level.

The product's ingredient list is pretty solid, according to Jaliman. "It contains heartleaf, which is known for its anti‑inflammatory effects. It may help reduce visible redness and irritation. It also contains glycerin for hydration," she says. 

Related: 13 Facial Toners That Actually Work, According to Dermatologists

Best for Redness: Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment, $54

Sephora

If you've never used a color-correcting cream before, it's easy to layer it under your foundation or tinted moisturizer. This one works equally well for dry, oily, combination and normal skin, and it can even conceal redness for up to 12 hours. The best part? It offers SPF 30 protection against the sun.

"It’s a favorite because the green-to-beige tint instantly neutralizes redness, often replacing the need for heavy foundation," Ramachandra explains.

Jaliman appreciates the fact that the product "combines skincare with sun protection in one product."

"It contains centella asiatica, which is anti-inflammatory and can help reduce visible redness and irritation. It also has allantoin, which helps the barrier of the skin," she says.

Best Splurge: Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum, $89

Sephora

"This is a luxury staple for a reason. It uses JAUM Activator to improve skin turnover and clarify the complexion," Ramachandra says.

Meant to be used first in your skincare routine, the serum takes on a range of complexion woes, including fine lines, dullness and dryness. It also lays the groundwork for the rest of your routine.

"It preps the skin to better absorb everything that follows," Ramachandra says.

It's ideal if you have normal, oily, dry or combination skin and are dealing with any of the following: redness, oiliness or loss of firmness/elasticity.

From an ingredient perspective, Jaliman tells Parade that the product includes several ingredients that are helpful to skin. "The serum contains betaine, propanediol and honey, which improves hydration," she explains. However, if you have sensitive skin, Jaliman says the built-in linalool (a fragrance) could irritate your complexion.

Best Cleanser: Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm, $23

Ulta

"Double cleansing is a pillar of K-beauty. This balm transforms into an oil to dissolve waterproof makeup and SPF without stripping the skin’s natural oils," Ramachandra says.

The hypoallergenic formula features micro-capture technology to draw dirt and oil from your pores and plenty of antioxidants to hydrate skin. Plus, it comes with a mini spatula to help you get just the right amount of product.

Since it's an oil-based product, Jaliman cautions anyone with acne-prone skin from giving it a try if they're hoping to avoid breakouts.

Related: 16 Best Japanese Beauty Products, According to Board-Certified Dermatologists

Best Mask: Mediheal Tea Tree Essential Mask, $20

Amazon

"For a quick 'skin emergency' fix, these masks are unbeatable. The tea tree oil and willow bark extract work to unclog pores and calm breakouts in just 15 minutes," Ramachandra says.

Whether you have acne-prone skin or simply want to give your skin a deep cleaning, the mask works for all skin types and hydrates as it treats blemishes.

According to Jaliman, "The mask creates a semi‑occlusive layer, which allows the product to absorb better."

Best for Sensitive Skin: Purito SEOUL Wonder Releaf Centella Serum, $23

Amazon

"I love this for people with sensitive skin," Ramachandra says.

Whether you're dealing with acne marks or active breakouts, the serum works quickly to calm skin and reduce redness and irritation. As an added bonus, the fragrance-free formula is made to absorb quickly so it won't leave your skin feeling greasy.

"This is a gentle product that improves hydration. It is good for those with sensitive, reactive or redness‑prone skin. It contains centella asiatica extract, an anti‑inflammatory ingredient that can help calm irritation," Jaliman adds.

Up Next:

Related: 9 Best Milky Toners, According to Dermatologists

Sources:
  • Dr Liia Ramachandra, Pharm.D., Ph.D
  • Dr. Debra Jaliman, board certified dermatologist

1969 No. 1 Hit Ranked Best ‘Romantic Classic Rock Song’ of All Time

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 11:29am

No genre of music knows romance like rock does.

On Valentine's Day, Collider ranked the 10 greatest romantic classic rock songs ever made, organizing a list of the best of the best among rock romance. Beating out both Queen's 1975 hit "Love of My Life" at No. 8 and the Beatles' 1969 song "Something" at No. 6, Chicago took the top spot with their 1969 classic "Beginnings."

Produced by James William Guercio via Columbia Records, the classic song was featured on the band's debut album, Chicago Transit Authority. While now recognized as one of the band's standout hits, it was initially unsuccessful. It wasn't until 1971 when Chicago re-released the track as a single that the song took off. Paired with the bands song "Colour My World," the two tracks made waves as a double-smash hit, reaching the No. 7 spot on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart and the No. 1 spot on the U.S. Easy Listening chart.

Recognizable for its acoustic intro and extended percussion-heavy coda, "Beginnings" became a staple for the band's early jazz-rock sound. Aside from the stunning instrumentation, the track also resonated with audiences due to its lyricism, which highlighted optimism around romantic connections.

Written by Robert Lamm, the song shares the joy of falling in love with every listener, showcasing the hope surrounding fresh relationships. Lamm wrote: "Only the beginning of what I want to feel forever / Only the beginning / Only just the start / I've got to get you into my life."

Chicago in 1971, Robert Lamm, Peter Cetera, James Pankow, Lee Loughnane, Walt Parazaider and Keith Seraphine.

Chris Walter/WireImage

The Legacy of Chicago

Chicago was formed in early 1967 by musicians Walter Parazaider, Terry Kath, Danny Seraphine, Lee Loughnane, James Pankow, Robert Lamm and Peter Cetera. The lineup met at DePaul University and in the Chicago area, wanting to form a rock and roll band that featured a horn section. Between 1969 and 2022, the band has released 38 albums, achieving widespread success from their nearly six-decade-spanning career.

Throughout the band's career, they have sold over 100 million records, securing 21 top-10 hits, 11 No. 1 singles and five consecutive No. 1 albums. In addition to their chart success, they have earned two Grammy Awards (including a Lifetime Achievement Award) and have been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying themselves as one of the greatest American rock bands of all time.

Related: Iconic ’70s Rock Band Announces Update Amid 2026 Tour

Paul McCartney’s Other Band Headed to Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 11:28am

Paul McCartneyhas been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice—as a member of the Beatles in 1988 and 11 years later as a solo artist.

His other band, Wings, has yet to be inducted into the Rock Hall, but the institution will be giving them some love in May.

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McCartney and Wings will be the subject of an exhibition at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum that opens on May 15.

“‘Paul McCartney and Wings’ will trace the arc of Paul McCartney’s post-Beatles reinvention – from his self-titled 1970 debut album through the formation of Wings to the band’s dissolution in 1981,” reads an announcement from the Rock Hall. “The exhibition will feature numerous never-before-displayed artifacts, including instruments played in Wings’ recording sessions and in concert performances, clothing worn by the band, handwritten lyrics, original artwork, tour memorabilia, and previously unseen photography – presented within an immersive experience incorporating archival video, audio and images.”

Related: This ‘60s Rock Icon Had the #1 Top-Grossing Tour for November

The exhibit comes as there is a flurry of activity surrounding McCartney’s post-Beatles career. Paul McCartney: Man on the Run, a new documentary chronicling the rise of Wings, from Oscar, Emmy, and Grammy award-winning director Morgan Neville, will be released on Prime Video on Feb. 27.

Fans can see an early screening of the film at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum on Feb. 21 at the Foster Theater. The film is also being shown in select theaters in special one-night-only screenings on Feb. 19 via Trafalgar Releasing.

“In my film, Man on the Run, I wanted to look at Paul’s impossible run from that long shadow of The Beatles,” Neville said in a statement. “It was a journey full of unlikely choices - a van tour! Bruce McMouse! Nigeria! Thrillington! A Scottish anthem! - but looked at together, the madness of those choices actually started to seem sane. How else could one deal with the weight of such expectations than by doing the unexpected?”

A soundtrack from the film, Man on the Run - Music from the Motion Picture Soundtrack, is due on Feb. 27. Along with such hits as “Band on the Run” and “Coming Up,” the album includes rarities, such as a live version of “Live and Let Die” from the 1980 concert film Rockshow and a demo version of “Silly Love Songs.”

A book documenting the band’s legacy, Wings: The Story of a Band on the Run, written by McCartney and edited by Ted Widmer, was published last year.

Darem Is Kidnapped in ‘Star Trek: Starfleet Academy’ Episode 7 — Watch Our Exclusive Sneak Peek

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 11:18am

Last week's episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy might have been the most intense one yet after our students found themselves literally between life and death after a training exercise goes awry. This week, as they deal with the aftermath, a welcome long weekend doesn't mean rest and relaxation for our cadets. While one is called to fulfill a long-promised obligation, another looks to right a mistake made prior to the beginning of term.

Here’s everything to know about Star Trek: Starfleet Academy Season 1, Episode 7, airing Thursday, Feb. 19 on Paramount+.

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What is Star Trek: Starfleet Academy about?

This new Paramount+ series follows a group of cadets who come together to pursue a common dream of hope and optimism. Under the watchful and demanding eyes of their instructors, they will discover what it takes to become Starfleet officers. But as they navigate blossoming friendships, explosive rivalries and first loves, the cadets must also face a new enemy that threatens both the Academy and the Federation itself.

What happened in last week's episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy? Holly Hunter as Captain Nahla Ake. Credit: John Medland/Paramount+

"Come, Let's Away," last week's episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy was my favorite so far in the series. Our cadets joined their counterparts from the War College on their first training mission, but soon found themselves in mortal danger as they encountered a savage new enemy in the Furies (who reminded me of the Reavers from Serenity).

Credit: Brooke Palmer/Paramount+

The students took a field trip to a ship graveyard to participate in a training exercise on an out-of-commission ship, the U.S.S. Miyazaki. Once aboard though, our cadets are taken hostage by the Furies and their lives threatened and a ransom demanded. Their training instructor Tomov (Jeff Teravainen) is killed trying to get them to safety and the students are alone to fend for themselves. They've barricaded themselves on the bridge, but if they don't get the force field back online, the Furies will get in and it's cadet stew for dinner.

Tomov is shot out of the airlock and Nahla (Holly Hunter) and all those on the bridge of the Athena know the threat is all to real and the clock is ticking on the cadets' lives. Between swallowing her comm badge on her first day to witnessing the death of one of the training officers, I don't think Cadet Pickford (Raffa Virago) will be returning next semester. Cadet Master Thok (Gina Yashere) sends the panicked cadet to the med bay and that's the last we see of her this episode.

Having made a love connection with Caleb (Sandro Rosta) at the beginning of the episode (which begs the question, where were Caleb's roommates?), Tarima (Zoe Steiner) had made a mental connection with him as well. In a moment of fear, Tarima feels Caleb's fear and loss at what to do. With the Furies having blocking all comms and transport between the Athena and the Miyazaki, Tarima is the only way the students can communicate with the Athena.

Sandro Rosta as Caleb. Photo Credit: Brooke Palmer/Paramount+

Vance (Oded Fehr) suggests that Nahla cut a deal with Nus Braka (Paul Giamatti) to get intel on how to stop the Furies. Nahla is reluctant to do it but her cadets lives are at stake. After she negotiates with Braka and learns the Furies are like bats and apparently can't stand high-pitch frequencies, they soon realize the hostage situation was planned by Braka himself and that it was all a ploy to get Starfleet to pull the Sargasso, an Intrepid-class ship away from a starbase for experimental platforms and weapons systems.

Paul Giamatti. Photo Credit: Brooke Palmer/Paramount+

The cadets are able to get the Miyazaki online and the force field back up. B'Avi (Alexander Eling) runs the "Tiny Fireflies" program which gets the singularity drive back up which once crippled the Miyazaki. The Furies get through before the cadets can beam out and as they try to fight back B'Avi saves Caleb from being killed by a Fury by putting himself between them, taking the full brunt of the kill shot. B'Avi died in the melee while SAM (Kerrice Brooks) was injured. We'll see in upcoming episodes if she recovers fully or if even a photonic can suffer PTSD.

L-R: Alexander Eling as B'Avi and Kerrice Brooks as SAM. Photo Credit: Brooke Palmer/Paramount+

It turns out the hostage situation wasn't the endgame. It was the starbase where the Sargasso was. It was ransacked for its top secret tech after the Sargasso left to help Athena and the cadets.

Alexander Eling as B’'Avi and Raoul Bhaneja as Chancellor Kelric. Photo Credit: John Medland/Paramount+

If you're wondering if there's any coincidence between the U.S.S. Miyazaki and the "Tiny Fireflies" program, wonder no more. We asked to see if the writers were fans of Hayao Miyazaki and his film, Grave of Fireflies, and indeed they are! The callouts in the episode were a nod to Miyazaki and the film.

Also, the title of the episode, "Come, Let's Away," is a line from King Lear which is more about Tarima than anything else in the episode. It's about her hyper-betazoid abilities and how she had to find a safe space (the field of flowers) in the chaos to find peace and calm herself and her abilities.

Braka escapes and becomes the most wanted man in Starfleet. Vance orders Nahla and Kelric return with their cadets to Earth where trauma counselors will be awaiting them. There's going to be a lot of therapy sessions for these cadets after what they experienced in their first semester in school!

First off, am I the only one that thought B'Avi's name was Bobby this whole time and wasn't it weird a Vulcan was named "Bobby"? I just assumed it was a nickname and didn't think anything of it. Secondly, did Ocam (Romeo Carere) grow up in Long Island and not on Betazed? Asking for a friend.

Related: Every ‘Star Trek’ Captain, Ranked

What happens in this week's episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy?

In "Ko'Zeine," this week's brand new episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, it's been about a month since the events of the training mission and the cadets head home for a long holiday weekend during where they must choose between family expectations and dreams. Darem (George Hawkins) is called up to fulfill some obligations much sooner than he expected and unexpectedly drags Jay-den (Karim Diane) along for the ride.

When does the next episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy drop?

Season 1, Episode 7 of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy—titled "Ko'Zeine"—premieres on Thursday, Feb. 19 on Paramount+.

Does Parade have a sneak peek of the upcoming episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy?

We do! In this Parade exclusive sneak peek of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, Jay-Den accidentally witnesses Darem being kidnapped and forgoes his holiday to save his friend. Take a look below.

PARADE Exclusive - Star Trek: Starfleet Academy - Episode 107 - Sneak Peek (1:12) How to watch Star Trek: Starfleet Academy

Starfleet Academy streams exclusively on Paramount+.

What time do new episodes of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy come out?

New episodes of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy drop Thursdays on Paramount+. Episodes typically become available on the streamer at 12:00 a.m. PT/3 a.m. ET on Thursday mornings.

Related: Holly Hunter Reveals the Unexpected Challenge of Her New ‘Star Trek’ Role

Check out images from the next episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy

Take a look at some select images from next episode of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy in the gallery below.

Star Trek: Starfleet AcademyParamount+ L-R: Sandro Rosta as Caleb and Bella Shepard as Genesis. Photo Credit: Brooke Palmer/Paramount+ Sandro Rosta as Caleb. Photo Credit: Brooke Palmer/Paramount+ Bella Shepard. Photo Credit: Brooke Palmer/Paramount+ L-R: Sandro Rosta as Caleb and Bella Shepard as Genesis. Photo Credit: Brooke Palmer/Paramount+ Kerrice Brooks as SAM. Credit: Michael Gibson/Paramount+ L-R: Bella Shepard as Genesis and Kerrice Brooks as SAM. Photo Credit: Michael Gibson/Paramount+ L-R: Bella Shepard as Genesis, Holly Hunter as Captain Nahla Ake, and Tig Notaro as Reno. Photo Credit: Michael Gibson/Paramount+ L-R: Tig Notaro as Reno and Bella Shepard as Genesis. Photo Credit: Michael Gibson/Paramount+ L-R: Karim Diané as Jay-Den and George Hawkins as Darem. Photo Credit: Michael Gibson/Paramount+

Paramount+

L-R: Karim Diané as Jay-Den, and Dale Whibley as Kyle. Photo Credit: Michael Gibson/Paramount+

Nancy Guthrie Likely Was Targeted, Sheriff Says

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 11:17am

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos says he believes the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie was a targeted attack.

Nanos shared his belief during an interview with NBC which aired on the Today Show on Wednesday, Feb. 18.

“I think this was an individual who had a target for whatever reason, and he has made it tough, but I’ve got some pretty tough investigators too,” Nanos said.

Between the Pima County Sheriff's Department, the FBI, and other agencies, there are upwards of 400 investigators working on the case. As of Wednesday, the search for Nancy has been going on for 18 days—and counting.

“As long as we have the ability to chase a lead, it’s not cold,” Nanos added. “We’re not going to give up. We’re going to find Nancy, and we’re going to find out who did this.”

RELATED: Sheriff Investigating Nancy Guthrie Case Reveals Why Her Family Was Cleared as Suspects

In another interview with NBC News published on Tuesday, Feb. 17, Nanos confirmed law enforcement are looking to match the gun holder that the alleged suspect had on their belt in a video taken by Nancy's doorbell camera.

“We know he had a gun. We know he had a holster that had some pretty unique characteristics,” Nanos said. “We can’t quite identify it yet, but that’s being worked on. So naturally, we go to our gun shops everywhere and say: ‘Have you seen this guy? Can you help us identify this weapon? Can you help us identify this holster?’”

Police are also looking to identify the backpack the alleged perpetrator is wearing in the doorbell camera video.

“That backpack, we could positively now identify as a backpack that is sold at one place only. That’s Walmart,” he told NBC News. “So we’re working with our Walmart managers all across the state to try to find out how many sales were there of that backpack in the last 20, 30 days, the last 60 days.”

“And can we do something with that? Can we break it — maybe we’ll find a credit card or a bank card. Maybe we’ll find a video of the guy walking in," Nanos added.

The FBI urges anyone with tips or leads to call 1-800-CALL-FBI in addition to the Pima County Sheriff’s Office number, 520-351-4900. An $100,000 reward is currently being offered to anyone with information leading to Nancy or the arrest of her kidnapper.

RELATED: Sheriff Investigating Nancy Guthrie Case Reveals His Brother Died a Day After Her Disappearance

At 90, a Folk Revolutionary Won Her First Grammy — After Decades Away From Music

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 11:08am

While Elizabeth "Libba" Cotten first started playing music in her childhood, it wasn't until decades later that she truly established her prowess as a folk revolutionary.

Born in January 1893, Cotten began working domestically at the age of nine. After leaving school for work and saving a bit of money, by age 12, she purchased her first guitar.

A left-handed individual, Cotten's self-taught method saw her playing the guitar upside down.

While learning dance and ragtime music, Cotten had begun writing her own—"Freight Train," one of her most widely-recognized songs, was written around this time.

"I've heard ‘Freight Train' so much, that's not my favorite any more," said Cotten, during an interview with the San Diego Reader in 1981.

"I've had to play it so much. I wrote that song when I was living in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. I was ten or eleven and I didn't have a guitar yet.

She continued: "There was a place not far from home where we would stand, and when the train would go and come we would wave at the train. There was only but one track. I always liked trains anyway."

As a teenager, she married a man named Frank Cotten. She gave up music to raise a family in the church, and did not touch an instrument for over 20 years.

While working at a department store nearly 30 years later, Cotten helped a lost young girl relocate her mother. They exchanged contacts, and the mother—who just so happened to be Ruth Crawford Seeger—basically hired her as a housekeeper on the spot.

After working for the family—which also included Charles Seeger (father of PeteSeeger), and his and Ruth's children; Mike, Peggy, Barbara and Penelope—for about five years, Cotten began playing the instruments available around the house.

She reportedly "had almost forgotten how to play," but having "all those instruments around reminded her and she just took them down and started to play," according to Mike Seeger. He began recording with Cotten shortly thereafter.

"We recorded her whole album with her on the second floor of her house, with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren all hanging around while we were recording late at night. It was very homey," he said, to the San Diego Reader.

"That got the idea around, the idea that she could play. At that time there was no possibility of playing concerts; people just didn’t do that. A couple of years later, largely as a result of that record, we had a possibility of putting a concert on together and so we did."

Cotten's first live show was at Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania; she later went on to play the major folk festivals, including UCLA, Smithsonian, Philadelphia, Newport, and Chicago.

In 1972, Cotten was awarded the National Folk Burl Ives Award for her contribution to American folk music. She went on to win a Grammy for Best Ethnic or Traditional Folk Recording in 1985, around the age of 90.

In 1987, just a few weeks before she died, Cotten played her final show in New York City. She passed away on June 29, at the age of 94.

Her legacy lives on: covers of her songs include "Oh, Babe, It Ain't No Lie," by the Grateful Dead, "Shake Sugaree" by Bob Dylan, and her classic, "Freight Train" by many—reportedly even The Beatles, according to author Mark Lewisohn'sThe Complete Beatles Chronicles, though a recorded version is yet to be unearthed.

Cotten was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.

'70s Rock Band Shares Update After Announcing Farewell Tour

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 10:55am

Journey has a big show on the horizon—and I'm not talking about their farewell tour.

The rock band took to social media to share the latest update with fans, writing, "Sturgis, we’re headed your way."

The rockers behind some of the biggest hits of the '70s and '80s, like Don't Stop Believin' and Anyway You Want It, will be playing a special standalone show at Full Throttle Saloon on August 11, 2026, as part of the 86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

The post noted that side stage pit passes, VIP & Bridge Access are on sale now. More information will be available here.

View this post on Instagram What is the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally?

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is the largest motorcycle rally in the world, held annually in the Black Hills and in Sturgis, South Dakota. It spans 10 days, from Aug. 7 through Aug. 16 this year, boasting races, rides and many concerts.

It was first started by local Indian dealer Pappy Hoel in 1938, marking its 86th year in 2026.

The 86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Brings Plenty of Big Names in Music

In addition to Journey, the annual motorcycle rally week will see some of the biggest names in rock and country music.

David Lee Roth, rock singer and former frontman of Van Halen, will close out the first official day of the rally on Aug. 7. The rest of the weekend brings greats like Megadeath and Sammy Hagar, along with Jamey Johnson, who has "served as country music’s north star for nearly two decades."

Lynyrd Skynyrd hits the legendary stage at Sturgis Blue Chip on Aug. 11, which is where country darling Lainey Wilson will bring Bell Bottom country for her performance the following day.

Other acts include Rob Zombie, Collective Soul and Jackyl.

Journey's Final Tour

Journey's stop in Strugis will follow the band's 60-city farewell tour, which is set to kick off in Hershey, Penn. on Feb. 28, and wrap up in Laredo, Tx on July 2.

"This tour is our heartfelt thank you to the fans who've been with us every step of the way—through every song, every era, every high and low," founder and guitarist Neal Schon stated in a press release. "We're pulling out all the stops with a brand-new production—the hits, the deep cuts, the energy, the spectacle. It's a full-circle celebration of the music that's brought us all together."

View this post on Instagram

After decades of rock memories, the current lineup stands at Schon, Jonathan Cain (keyboards, backing vocals), Arnel Pineda (lead vocals), Jason Derlatka (keyboards, vocals), Deen Castronovo (drums, vocals) and Todd Jensen (bass).

As for what the setlist may include, fans can expect plenty of timeless anthems and classics, including "Faithfully," "Lights," "Open Arms" and "Separate Ways."

Tickets went on sale shortly after the tour was announced in Nov. 2025, with the tour expected to extend into 2027 as additional legs are added.

Next, ’80s Rock Icon Announces Retirement Plans: ‘I’ll Be Saying Goodbye’

This New Costco Heat-and-Serve Combo Is a Cold-Day Classic

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 10:55am

There are some pairings that instantly bring back memories, and grilled cheese with tomato soup sits near the top of that list. It’s a simple, familiar meal many of us grew up with, and on a cold winter night, it still delivers the same warm, satisfying comfort.

Costco appears to be leaning into that nostalgia with a new heat-and-serve dinner spotted in stores this week: Kirkland Signature Tomato Basil Soup paired with four grilled cheese sandwiches. The ready-to-heat combo was shared in a February 17 Instagram reel from @discovering_costco, giving shoppers a closer look at the latest prepared foods addition.

View this post on Instagram

According to the post, the meal is priced at $4.99 per pound and comes in a container weighing roughly 3½ pounds, bringing the total to just under $18. The package includes four grilled cheese sandwiches and a generous portion of Kirkland Signature Tomato Basil Soup, making it an easy option for feeding a family without turning to takeout.

Related: A Fresh New Bakery Find at Costco Brightens Winter Mornings

The sandwiches are made on brioche bread with cheddar and American Swiss cheeses, along with Kirkland Signature salted butter to help achieve a golden, crisp finish when heated. The tomato basil soup provides the classic dipping companion, balancing the rich, buttery sandwiches with a smooth, savory flavor.

Grilled cheese and tomato soup make a timeless comfort-food pairing.

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Instagram users reacted quickly to the post. @costcofindsnortheast wrote, “Omg this is amazing! Hope to see it at my store soon!” While @lilluvvegas commented, “Super nostalgic combo….But I don’t see how the bread could not be soggy, even if you re-toast it.” That is a fair concern.

Grilled Cheese Can Be Reheated Successfully With the Right Method

For anyone worried about soggy bread, testing shared by Treehugger found that leftover grilled cheese can reheat surprisingly well using a few simple methods. Re-grilling the sandwich in a hot pan with a little butter and a loosely placed lid produced the best results, restoring crisp bread and fully melted cheese while preventing the sandwich from drying out.

A toaster oven also melted the cheese and crisped the bread, though it tended to dry the sandwich slightly. Baking at 350°F created a crisp exterior but left the cheese less evenly melted. The pan method produced the closest texture to a freshly made grilled cheese, while the toaster oven offers a convenient alternative when time is tight.

That means if you have leftovers or want to crisp the sandwiches further, a quick pass in a skillet can help restore the texture we all love.

With familiar flavors, simple preparation, and enough portions to feed a family, this latest Costco prepared meal taps into a timeless comfort pairing while making dinner feel effortless on a cold winter evening.

Jelly Roll Says Reading Wife Bunnie XO's Memoir Was 'Rough'

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 10:52am

Jelly Roll is opening up about his wife's memoir.

On Tuesday, Feb. 17, the country star's wife Bunnie XO released her debut memoir Stripped Down: Unfiltered and Unapologetic.

The book, which was described in a press release as a “modern-day rags-to-riches story,” chronicles her past struggles with drug addiction, mental health challenges, and Jelly Roll’s infidelity, among other hardships that ultimately shaped the person she is today.

While speaking with People at the season 1 finale of Netflix's Star Search reboot on Tuesday, Feb. 17, the country star admitted it was “rough” for him to read the memoir as he was reminded of difficult times they had experienced together.

“It was rough at times just for me to read it. You know what I mean? We went through a lot of pain and having to go through it together, but reading the whole book and seeing where it ended at is really touching,” Jelly Roll said, before praising his wife for being “brave” by sharing her story with the world.

“I'm just proud of her for telling her story so unapologetically,” he continued. “I mean, she talks about everything fearlessly, from domestic assault to sexual assault. I'm just proud of her. She's so brave.”

RELATED: Jelly Roll Allegedly Confronted Reporter Who Asked Him About ICE at the Grammys

Jelly Roll and Bunnie XO first met after she attended one of his concerts at Las Vegas’ Country Saloon in 2015. The couple married on August 31, 2016 in a Las Vegas courthouse after Jelly Roll proposed on stage earlier that night. 

Bunnie XO is the stepmother of Jelly Roll's two children from previous relationships: daughter, Bailee, and son, Noah. The couple also recently shared that they're planning to grow their family by welcoming a child via surrogate.

Stripped Down: Unfiltered and Unapologetic is currently available on Amazon.com or wherever books are sold.

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2021 Tearjerking Book Ranked ‘Most Romantic Novel’ of All Time

Wed, 02/18/2026 - 10:50am

It's no secret that people love to read romance novels. They've taken over BookTok and pop culture as one of the most popular genres right now, and over the years fans have been able to enjoy hundreds of beautifully written romance novels that allow the reader to experience love in ways they might not have ever imagined.

Last week, Cosmopolitan released a list of the top 58 romance novels of all time, pulling the best releases over centuries — from old classics to new works — that resonated the most with romance enjoyers.

"Romance novels take all the steamy sex scenes and heart-melting moments you've seen in your fave rom-coms and turn 'em up to level 1,000—though they tend to have a lil more heart and a lil less bodice ripping than erotic novels," Cosmopolitan writes.

Beating out fan-favorites such as The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo (2017) by Taylor Jenkins Reid and Pride and Prejudice (1813) by Jane Austen, the No. 1 best romance novel of all time, according to Cosmopolitan, is Emily Henry's 2021 release People We Meet On Vacation — a story about two best friends with opposite personalities who have taken yearly summer trips together for a decade try to repair their estranged relationship and explore their unspoken romantic feelings during one last, pivotal vacation.

The story is written from the perspective of Poppy Wright, a travel writer for R+R Magazine and an adventurous spirit. Her best friend, Alex Nilsen, is more on the reserved side, tending to prefer staying home over constant travel. Their love story is a slow-burn, friends-to-lovers tale defined by deep emotional intimacy, years of pining and plenty of miscommunication.

After the book was released in 2021, it received an overwhelming amount of positive reviews, eventually earning the honor of being a No. 1 New York Times bestseller. In 2026, Netflix adapted the novel into a film starring Tom Blyth and Emily Bader, which officially released on Jan. 9.

People We Meet on Vacation took over BookTok as a must-read romance novel and is credited with introducing so many new readers to the genre, making it a modern classic.

Related: 'People We Meet on Vacation' Author Dishes on How Much Say She Had in Choosing Movie Cast

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