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When you think of psychology or psychotherapy, you might think of an exaggerated session where someone is trying to understand the meaning of life. While that isn’t always the case, a form of that can be a subcategory called existential psychotherapy, which focuses on someone's lived experience and their own reality. And Rollo May is known as the “father of Existential Psychotherapy in the United States.”

Per EBSCO, he “focused on the profound dimensions of human existence” and his early works explored “the themes of anxiety, alienation and the quest for self-understanding in a fragmented cultural landscape.” On that note, our quote of the dayhighlights one of May’s insights into how communication and community are so closely connected. 

Born in 1909 in a small town in Ohio, Rollo May grew up as the second-oldest of six children, per the official Rollo May website. His family moved to Michigan when he was still young, and he attended Oberlin College in 1930, per EBSCO. He then taught in Greece for a few years before becoming a counselor at Michigan State University. He went on to study theology after reading lots of Søren Kierkegaard while in a sanatorium for three years due to tuberculosis, and then earned the first PhD in clinical psychology that Columbia University ever awarded in 1949.

As EBSCO reported, May was also influenced by European existential thinkers such as Ludwig Binswanger and Medard Boss. He ultimately believed that those who suffered psychologically were “disconnected from one’s true self, leading to widespread anxiety.” He thought that this kind of anxiety was an epidemic by the 1950s, and can be “fixed” by finding your true self by “attuning oneself authentically (within not without) via courage and creativity.”

May’s work and research are still influential, and today’s quote shares his thoughts surrounding how powerful communication is and how it can create community, something that’s necessary to help people develop and thrive.

Related: Quote of the Day: Philosopher Simone de Beauvoir on Life Gaining Value Through Love, Friendship and Compassion for Others

Quote of the Day by Rollo May

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"Communication leads to community — that is, to understanding, intimacy, and the mutual valuing that was previously lacking."

This quote appears in Chapter 12 titled “Toward New Community” in May’s 1972 book, Power and Innocence: A Search for the Source of Violence. The main thesis of this work is to explain the “creative aspects of power and innocence” and “offers a way of thinking about the problems of contemporary society."

Before this quote, he writes that “power is required for communication,” saying that whether you have to go before a “hostile” group or be honest with a friend, speaking up and communicating requires “self-affirmation, self-assertion and even at times aggression.” 

And then in the paragraph this line appears: he writes that humans “would not communicate unless we valued the other, considered him worth talking to, worth the effort to make our ideas clear.” Something that Alfred Adler calls “social interest,” he notes. Then he says the line, followed by the larger quote:

“Communication leads to community — that is, to understanding, intimacy, and the mutual valuing that was previously lacking. Community can be defined simply as a group in which free conversation can take place. Community is where I can share my innermost thoughts, bring out the depths of my own feelings, and know they will be understood.”

Related: Quote of the Day: Psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross on Inner Light and Resilience Being 'Like Stained-Glass Windows’

Deeper Meaning of Rollo May’s Quote—Communication and Community

In the context of trying to understand the concepts of power and innocence in our modern world (of the 1970s), May is saying that power is needed to communicate. As he says, this “power” is referring to the effort and vulnerability needed to share your thoughts. And doing so can bring you together with your community. In fact, it can create community. 

In the most barebones view of this quote, when you talk to someone and find common ground, you can create a friendship, a bond and maybe even a community if it’s long-lasting. If you speak with your next-door neighbor often and create a good rapport, you now have a buddy you can ask to borrow sugar from when needed. If you make conversation with the person who always sits next to you in your big lecture hall class, you now have someone to go to lunch with if you have enough in common. 

If you close yourself off and never speak with others or try to build bonds, then you won’t have that place where you can “share [your] innermost thoughts, bring out the depths of [your] own feelings and know they will be understood” as May says. It can be lonely to not have a community, which is why people strive for it so much. 

Many psychologists share that “micro-interactions” are the best way to start to beat loneliness. These include little actions that bring social synergies into your life and start to cure stagnant feelings of isolation, even if the interactions are small and not long-lasting bonds. In the same vein, as May states here, just striking up conversations can lead to kinship. 

And even further, once you have community, speaking about your feelings, sharing your problems and more can deepen that sense of belonging. Communication really is the first thing you can do to bridge a gap with other people, sometimes even before seeing someone face-to-face, especially now in the digital age. But even back then, a letter or phone call went a long way. And that’s still the case today. 

Related: Quote of the Day: Psychologist Jean Piaget on Personal Growth and Embracing Your Inner Child

More Quotes from Rollo May

• "Life comes from physical survival; but the good life comes from what we care about."
• "The relationship between commitment and doubt is by no means an antagonistic one. Commitment is healthiest when it is not without doubt but in spite of doubt."
• “Many people feel they are powerless to do anything effective with their lives. It takes courage to break out of the settled mold, but most find conformity more comfortable. This is why the opposite of courage in our society is not cowardice, it's conformity.”
• “A person can meet anxiety to the extent that his values are stronger than the threat.”
• “Intimacy requires courage because risk is inescapable. We cannot know at the outset how the relationship will affect us.”

Up Next:

Related: Quote of the Day: Psychologist B.F. Skinner on Ingenuity and the Importance of Human Intelligence

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If you're someone who starts counting down to Halloween months in advance, the Summerween trend is right up your alley. This growing trend brings spooky season fun into the middle of summer, letting fans enjoy Halloween-inspired decorations, treats, and activities long before October arrives.

Whether you're decorating with watermelon jack-o'-lanterns, spooky pool floats, or playful outdoor displays, it doesn't take much to embrace the trend. One affordable option is the Ayieyill Skeleton Decoration Set. Right now, the five-piece set is on sale for 50% off, dropping the price from $40 to just $20.

Ayieyill Skeleton Decoration Set, From $20 (was $40) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The five-piece set currently offers the biggest discount, though there's also a three-piece version and an option that comes with both a skeleton and a skeleton dog. Each skeleton measures 16 inches tall and 4.7 inches wide, making them large enough to stand out without overwhelming your space.

Made from lightweight yet durable plastic, the skeletons are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Hang them from trees, place them on a porch, decorate a garage door, or incorporate them into a larger Halloween display.

Related: Amazon’s 'Adorable' $20 Cat-Shaped Solar Lantern Stake Brings the Summerween Trend to Your Yard

One of the best things about these decorations is how customizable they are. Each skeleton is fully posable, making it easy to create playful scenes that fit the Summerween vibe. Dress them in Hawaiian shirts, add sunglasses or pool floaties, or pose them around inflatable palm trees and kiddie pools for a fun summer-inspired twist on classic Halloween decor.

One reviewer described it as “really cool,” noting that it “looks and feels solid.” They added, “All joints are attached with screws, making them highly posable! It was displayed as a group of skeletons sitting, kneeling, waving, running, and smiling.” 

Another shared, “This is fun! I love it and it's perfect for the front porch. I'm putting mine in the front door area so the kids will see and enjoy it.”

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For anyone looking to add a little spooky fun to summer, the Ayieyill Skeleton Decoration Set makes it easy. With Walmart's current 50% discount, you can pick up the five-piece set for just $20 and bring a touch of Summerween to your home.

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If you're in need of a home refresh but don't want to spend a ton of cash, you should turn to budget-friendly retailers like Walmart. The retailer's sale section, the clearance rack, and flash deals — especially on home decor — are nearly  too good to pass up. This Yaheetech Upholstered Boucle Accent Chair is the latest gorgeous piece to come across our desk, and it's up to 45% off right now.

The chair initially cost $200, but has been marked down to as low as $103 in the blue colorway during a limited-time sale. You can purchase the furniture in eight additional colors: beige, black, red, dark grey, dark green, ivory, light grey, and yellow. Prices range up to $110, and you can even add a two–pack version of the detail, which includes two of the same chairs on sale for up to $220. 

Yaheetech Upholstered Boucle Accent Chair, From $103 (was $200) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The chair is 27 inches wide, 25 inches long, and 28.5 inches tall, so ensure that it fits in your space before adding it to the cart. The furniture is on the smaller side, so it's perfect for small spaces and narrow areas. The design features a rounded back and armrests, with four legs that will have to be assembled upon delivery (not to worry though, because shoppers say that the legs "easily" screw on). 

The piece is made with a manufactured wood frame and padded elastic foam in the seat. It's then upholstered with a polyester boucle that leaves a unique and soft texture. The chair can support up to 300 pounds, and is intended to be comfortable for long hours. Shoppers said that the chair is an "excellent value," adding that it's "very durable," "perfect for small spaces," "beautiful," and "comfortable." 

Related: Walmart’s ‘Rustic’ Farmhouse End Table Has ‘Incredibly Convenient’ Built-In Outlets for Easy Charging

The seat is also "lightweight" so you can easily maneuver wherever you'd like. "These chairs are very attractive," one reviewer added. "They add a touch of class to any small space." Another customer said that the chairs "transformed the plain living room," as the design is modern but muted enough that they're not overwhelming. 

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Your home upgrade doesn't have to cost you a pretty penny. You can shop for this pretty chair as a solo accent piece or as a duo to update your room. This 45% off flash deal won't last for long though, so shop it at Walmart while you can!  

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Iconic actor, singer, producer, and centerfold of the idea of the "Six Degrees" theory in Hollywood, Kevin Bacon turned 68-years-old on July 8th, 2026. Bacon has become widely known, respected, and beloved for his tenure as a staple in the entertainment industry.

Kevin Norwood Bacon was born and raised by a very close-knit family of six children in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The youngest child in his family, Bacon went on to win a full state-funded scholarship to the Pennsylvania Governor's School for the Arts at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, which fully solidified his love of performing at a young age.

At the age of 17, Bacon left home to pursue an entertainment career, moving to New York City. He waited tables while taking small roles in soap operas as well as in films like National Lampoon's Animal House and Friday the 13th.

In 1984, Bacon landed the role of Ren McCormack in the musical film Footloose.Footloose became one of the highest-grossing films of the year and solidified Bacon as a dreamboat, leading-man type. His performance was compared to that of James Dean, with critics saying he was "cocky but likable."

Bacon was resistant to being typecast after the success of Footloose and purposefully chose roles that went against that heartthrob type, even to the detriment of his own career. He took roles in comedy horror films like Tremors, political thrillers like JFK, and dramas like A Few Good Men. Bacon earned a Golden Globe nomination for his work in The River Wild in 1994, and eventually won a Globe and a SAG Award for his work in the HBO mini-series Taking Chance.

Bacon joined the cast of the X-Men franchise in 2010 as villain Sebastian Shaw, the same year he acted in the rom-com success, Crazy, Stupid, Love.

Bacon's prolific and wide-spreading career has made him the subject of the game/theory of "Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon." The premise is relatively simple: Due to his diverse range of roles, genres, castmates, and touch points in the industry, any Hollywood actor or person in Hollywood can be linked to another based on their association with Bacon. The theory derives its name from the idea of "six degrees of separation." Bacon initially wasn't in love with the notion, but has since warmed to it and even created a charitable initiative around it with SixDegrees.org.

Taylor Hill / Getty Images

Bacon met actressKyra Sedgwick on the set of the PBS adaptation of Lemon Sky in 1987. The pair have been married since the following year in 1988 and have two children together. Bacon has said of Kyra: "The time I was hitting what I considered to be bottom was also the time I met my wife, our kids were born, good things were happening. And I was able to keep supporting myself; that always gave me strength."

Bacon will star alongside his family and wife in the horror-comedy Family Movie, which premiered at SXSW. He was also just announced to be a part of the Emily Henry film adaptation, Beach Read.

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Related: Kevin Bacon and Andie MacDowell Join Cast of Beloved Bestselling Romance Film Adaptation

Possibly the most enigmatic band of the '60s was the legendary Los Angeles band The Doors. They are easily one of the most mythologized groups in rock history, between their dark sound, poetic lyrics, and the complicated maelstrom that was Jim Morrison, there was a nature to the band that was impossible to look away from.

One of the most important parts of that sound is guitarist Robby Krieger, who through simplicity and tight rhythms created some of the most iconic rock riffs of all time. His playing fits the style of the band perfectly. It's punchy, smooth, mysterious, and psychedelic. Take a song like "The End." The guitar work on that song is so simple yet so atmospheric, haunting, and instantly iconic. The second it starts I'm plunged into a world of darkness that absorbs the whole soundscape.

Another iconic song from the band is "L.A. Woman," which Krieger recently performed within the hallowed walls of the Whisky A Go Go in LA.

@officialrobbykrieger

Here’s Part 1 of “L.A. Woman” from the other night at @WhiskyaGoGo_Official. 🎸 🎥 @Shane_Greavette on IG #robbykrieger #whiskyagogo #thedoors

♬ original sound - Robby Krieger

Krieger still has such a powerful command over the song, with the small simple subtlety working so well. The video showcases a masterful ability to keep things simple and serving the song.

Fans were absolutely loving the video, taking the comments to show their support for legend that is still performing for us today.

"Awesome playing. Love this song! 😎"

"Robby is a living legend."

"Absolute king on stage. 😎"

The fact that we can still hear these songs from the source in 2026 is remarkable. The Doors' self titled debut is going to be sixty years old next year, marking six decades of one of music's most enduring acts. With musicians like Robby still around, the wonder and mystery of sixties continue to live on with the incredible music produced back then.

Related: Bob Dylan, 85, Shocks Fans with Out of Character Behavior at Concert - 'This Is Such a Rare Capture on Video'

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I know firsthand that small spaces can be tricky to decorate. You want a room to feel cozy, but not cramped, and sometimes the right piece can make a bigger difference than a major makeover. IKEA may have just the thing for shoppers looking to make their home feel a little more open without knocking down a wall.

The new LINDBYN mirror from IKEA is a stylish arched mirror that adds a soft, airy look to bedrooms, entryways, living rooms and more. Priced at $69.99, the mirror features a slim frame and a curved top that gives it a timeless feel while helping create the illusion of more space.

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Available with either a gold or black frame, the LINDBYN mirror features a simple design that makes it easy to blend into different decorating styles, whether your home leans modern, classic or somewhere in between.

LINDBYN Mirror, black, $69.99 at IKEA

IKEA

The reason mirrors are such a popular decorating trick is pretty simple: they reflect light and create more visual depth. When placed strategically, a mirror can make a room appear larger and brighter. Try hanging one across from a window to bounce natural light around the room or place it in a darker hallway to make the area feel more open.

The arched shape gives this IKEA mirror an extra design boost. Curved furniture and decor have become increasingly popular because they add softer lines to rooms that are often filled with straight edges from tables, cabinets and shelving. An arched mirror can act as a focal point while making a blank wall feel more intentional.

Related: Costco Just Dropped a Sleek Home Accent That Will Elevate Your Living Room

Hang the LINDBYN mirror from IKEA on the wall or place it on a mantel, dresser or chest of drawers. IKEA also notes that it can be leaned against a wall when properly anchored and tilted, giving shoppers a few different styling options.

While larger floor mirrors are often used to visually expand bedrooms and entryways, a smaller arched mirror like this one can work well in apartments, offices or smaller rooms where floor space is limited.

For shoppers looking for an affordable home refresh, IKEA's new LINDBYN mirror offers a simple upgrade without breaking the bank. Upgrade your space today!

Related: IKEA Is Selling a $25 2-Tier Kitchen Upgrade That Declutters Messy Counters

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Starting a garden is exciting, but before you start picking out tomato plants and readying the backyard, there are a few essentials to check off your list. You'll need quality soil, gardening gloves, a watering can or hose, sunlight, seeds or starter plants — and perhaps most importantly, a setup where everything can grow.

If you're still missing this crucial piece of the puzzle, Walmart has a flash deal worth digging into. The Tramull Galvanized Metal Garden Bed Set is currently marked down 52%, dropping from $160 to just $77. Whether you're growing fresh vegetables, colorful flowers, fragrant herbs, or a little bit of everything, this elevated setup creates a dedicated growing space while giving your yard a clean, organized look.

Tramull Galvanized Metal Garden Bed Set, $77 (was $160) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Each set includes two generously sized beds measuring 94.5 inches long, 35 inches wide, and 12 inches deep, giving you plenty of dedicated space to separate vegetables, herbs, flowers, or even different crops. The clean rectangular shape also creates a more organized, polished look than traditional in-ground plots, making your growing space easier to keep track of and maintain.

The open-bottom design is another major advantage over traditional planters, allowing excess water to drain naturally so roots aren't sitting in soggy soil while still giving plants unrestricted access to nutrients, earthworms, and healthy microorganisms beneath the bed. The result is healthier root development, improved drainage, and stronger plant growth from the ground up.

Built to handle years of growing seasons, these raised beds are made from weather-resistant galvanized steel with a corrugated wave design that adds strength while helping the panels withstand pressure without bending or loosening over time. A protective powder-coated finish helps resist rust and corrosion through changing weather, while remaining eco-friendly and safe for both plants and people by preventing potentially harmful contaminants from leaching into the soil. 

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These beds use an overlapping steel plate design, reinforced corner protectors, strengthening crossbars, and heavy-duty hardware to keep the structure rigid even after repeated watering, changing temperatures, and heavy soil loads. Each piece arrives with pre-drilled holes, all necessary screws, and straightforward instructions, making setup simple. Two additional metal ground stakes provide extra stability once installed, helping keep everything firmly anchored throughout the season.

Whether planting their very first vegetable patch or expanding an established backyard setup, shoppers have had plenty of praise for these “sturdy” and “spacious” raised beds, with many calling them a “great size and quality for cost.” One reviewer described them as “lightweight and so easy to maneuver,” adding that their plants “are already growing and happy in their new home.”

Long-term durability has also impressed buyers. One shopper, who has been using the beds in their garden for more than a year, reported that “they have not rusted and show no signs of wear.”

Related: Walmart's 'Well-Made' and 'Durable' $27 Raised Garden Bed Will Be a 'Real Showpiece' in Your Yard

If this is the year you're finally starting that vegetable garden, don't overlook the foundation. Shop the $77 Tramull Galvanized Metal Garden Bed Set while it’s 52% off at Walmart!

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Matt Damon is still in awe of Robin Williams' brilliance nearly three decades after their 1997 film, Good Will Hunting.

Speaking on Amy Poehler's Good Hang podcast, Damon reflected on working with the late Oscar winner, recalling the improvised line from the film's final scene that he says fell from "heaven."

"[He was] just like overflowing with generosity," Damon recalled.

Damon remembered Williams for his meticulous nature when it came to filming his scenes, explaining that he would do "a lot of takes" at his own request.

"He was a ruminator. There were things we went back and did another pickup of a thing, and we [had] shot it 15 times already. Ben and I knew we had it. Gus [Van Sant, the director] knew we had it. I think that might be the comedy background where it's like I'm going to refine this joke."

The Bourne Identity actor remembered Williams for his "infatigable" energy.

While the beloved comedic actor was meticulous about getting his scenes to his level of perfection, Damon recalled one improvised scene that changed everything.

"He must have done 15 takes [of the final scene]," Damon began. "Then he just started improvising lines, and on like the ninth line he opened the door, and he looked, and he read the letter and he said, 'Son of a bitch, he stole my line.'"

Damon remembers grabbing Van Zant in joy, immediately recognizing the line's perfection.

"It's like you know when a piece of dialogue falls from heaven, and you just know, but Robin went back in, and he did it five, six more times," he continued.

Robin Williams tragically took his own life in August 2014 at age 63.

Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle brings together mystery, sports, surprises and some familiar faces. Get excited—there's another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you're looking for some hints and answers for today's Connections Sports Edition on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Wednesday, July 8, 2026 / New York Times

New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it's a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It's up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.

This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.

As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you "group sports terms that share a common thread."

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on July 8, 2026

Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.

• Yellow: Pickle
• Green: Chop
• Blue: Orange
• Purple: Burger

Here Are Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories

OK, time for a second hint…we'll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!

• Yellow: BASERUNNING OUTCOMES
• Green: CAN PRECEDE "BLOCK" IN FOOTBALL
• Blue: CFB BOWL GAMES IN FLORIDA
• Purple: MEMBERS OF TEXAS RANGERS

If you're looking for the answers, no worries—we've got them below. So, don't scroll any further if you don't want to see the solutions!

The answers to today's Connections Sports Edition #653 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• BASERUNNING OUTCOMES: PICKLE, PICKOFF, STEAL, TAG
• CAN PRECEDE "BLOCK" IN FOOTBALL: CHOP, CRACKBACK, PANCAKE, PASS
• CFB BOWL GAMES IN FLORIDA: CITRUS, GASPARILLA, ORNAGE, POP-TARTS
• MEMBERS OF TEXAS RANGERS: BURGER, DEGROM, GORE, ROCKER

Don't worry if you didn't get them this time—we've all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

Related: NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Tuesday, July 7, 2026

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When the summer heat turns your home into a sauna, having a portable air conditioner that's actually easy to use and effectively cools your space is a total game-changer. Amazon's Garvee Portable Air Conditioner is a great option for anyone looking to fend off the summer heat, and it’s currently on sale for just $160 (down from $230). 

With a 4.8-star rating and more than 300 sold in the past month, this unit is clearly gaining popularity among Amazon shoppers. A major part of the appeal is the practical design. The Garvee is a feature-packed three-in-one unit that serves as a powerful air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan all at once. 

Garvee Portable Air Conditioner, From $160 (was $230) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Whether you need to blast cool air (it can dip down to a frosty 61 degrees Fahrenheit) or simply keep the air moving on milder days, you're covered. The 8,000 BTUs of cooling power make it ideal for rooms up to 350 square feet, so it's perfect for bedrooms, home offices, or even a stuffy garage.

Installation is refreshingly simple. Just attach the exhaust hose and use the adjustable window kit. It fits windows from 15.5 to 47 inches wide. The portable design means you can move it wherever you need relief, from the living room during the day to your bedroom at night.

Shoppers raved about the Garvee's "easy to use" controls and thoughtful, sleep-friendly features. The included remote means you can adjust settings from bed or the couch, and the 24-hour programmable timer makes it a dream for uninterrupted rest. Reaching only 50 decibels, it’s also quiet enough to let you enjoy the cool in peace.

Shoppers said this "powerful" unit delivers “icy cold” air, with one shopper noting it's the "best” air conditioning unit they've ever used.

"[The] setup is super simple," one shopper stated. "The controls are straightforward, and it has all the features you'd want in a portable system. I'm really impressed with how well this performs and expect to use it a lot."

With a sleek white body, a modern black panel, and a compact footprint, this air conditioner blends seamlessly into any decor. Maintenance is a breeze, too. The self-evaporating system reduces the need to empty water trays, while the washable filter slides out for quick cleanings. This keeps your air fresher and your air conditioner running at peak efficiency.

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Related: Martha Stewart's 'Beautiful' $13 Stainless Steel Kitchen Essential Is ‘Great for Everyday Baking’

If you've been sweating through sleepless nights or sticky afternoons, the $160 Garvee Portable AC is the cool, quiet solution you've been waiting for. With the limited-time deal, It's a small price for a seriously big upgrade in home comfort, just in time for the hottest days of summer.

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If you have the space for it, gardening on any level can be a very rewarding experience. And if you are looking for ways to upgrade your outdoor space going into the summer season, Costco has the perfect thing to take your gardening journey to the next level.

Spotted in store by @costconewdeals and available in assorted sizes for just $72.99, Costco’s crape myrtle trees are making their way to warehouses in select regions, ready to transform your front yard or backyard for years to come. Considered to be the ultimate summer bloom, this vibrant new arrival brings a burst of long-lasting color to outdoor spaces with gorgeous flower clusters and stunning appearance.

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Crape Myrtle Trees, $72.99 at Costco View this post on Instagram

Officially known as Lagerstroemia, the crape myrtle is a popular ornamental deciduous tree that’s native to Asia. Commonly planted throughout Southern U.S. states due to its vibrant, long-lasting summer blooms and exceptional heat tolerance, the tree is prized for its ability to transform outdoor spaces with colorful flowers and year-round visual appeal.

Beyond the blooms, its exfoliating bark peels away to reveal a smooth, colorful trunk underneath, adding extra character when the tree is leafless during winter.

At $72.99 a pop, Costco is offering assorted varieties in a ready-to-plant 9.9-gallon container complete with an established root structure to help it start out strong in your garden. Known to produce large, showy flower clusters in shades of pink, purple, red and white, crape myrtle blooms can last up to 120 days through summer, making them a rewarding pick to add to your garden today.

Shoppers Are Thrilled

“Omg I spotted these new giant crape myrtle trees and I’m in love,” Laura captioned her post on Instagram. “It’s been years since I’ve seen these at Costco.”

In the comment section, fans immediately chimed in to share their excitement over the new garden find. “I have 13 crape myrtle trees and 3 crape myrtle shrubs in my yard,” one fan boasted, encouraging others to “Buy one, they’re beautiful!”

Many more agreed, with another fan calling them “gorgeous” and praising the “beautiful flowers” that turned light pink, along with leaves that changed color in the fall. “They handle our Texas weather quite well,” a third fan wrote, adding that “it’s a lovely time of year for their blooms right now.”

Related: Hobby Lobby's 'Beautiful' Boho Side Table Is So Charming, Shoppers Keep Snatching It Up

What to Know Before Planting a Crape Myrtle

Crape myrtles are a practical choice for almost any outdoor space. And depending on the variety, they can grow anywhere from 6 to 30 feet tall, making them a creative option for adding shade, privacy, color or a standout feature to your yard.

If you bring one (or a handful) home, be sure to plant it in full sun with well-draining soil and water regularly during the first growing season to help establish its roots. And if you’re planting multiple crape myrtles, give them enough room to grow, spacing smaller varieties about 4 to 8 feet apart for a privacy hedge and keeping larger trees several feet away from your home, driveway or fence.

Once established, crape myrtles are impressively drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, requiring only light pruning in late winter to help encourage an abundance of summer blooms. Best of all, they are pet-safe, further solidifying them as a must-have garden upgrade.

Keep your eyes peeled for their arrival at your local warehouse in the coming weeks, and while you’re there, check out Costco’s Ion Audio Glowtive Lantern Speaker to set the mood while planting and Vita Coco Treats Frosted Lemonade to keep you refreshed afterward.

Related: Costco's 'Bombproof' 4-Tier Storage Rack Is a Heavy-Duty Fix for Garage Clutter

During the peak of progressive rock in the '70s, the British band National Health assembled some of the most accomplished musicians in the genre and is now recognized among the greatest supergroups of all time.

In a list released by BBC Music Magazine, which ranked the 23 greatest all-star lineups in history, National Health joined some of the most legendary names in music.

While iconic bands like Emerson, Lake & Palmer, Cream, Bad Company and others dominated the mainstream, the group, spearheaded by Dave Stewart and Alan Gowen, carved out a devoted following in the underground music scene.

Formed in 1975, the band, which got its name from Stewart's government-issued National Health glasses, was composed of musicians from Hatfield and the North and Gilgamesh, two of the prominent bands from Canterbury, England.

The founding lineup featured  Stewart and Gowen with guitarists Phil Miller and Phil Lee, bassist Mont Campbell and drummer Bill Bruford.

Dave Stewart and Allan Holdsworth's former band Bruford with members Jeff Berlin at the Venue, London, UK in 1979.

atal Asanuma/Shinko Music/Getty Images

However, the supergroup's lineup was anything but stable.

Even before releasing its debut album, the band experienced several lineup changes after Bruford left in 1976 and was replaced by Pip Pyle.

Campbell also departed, making way first for Neil Murray before John Greaves eventually took over on bass.

After a series of major shakeups and years of preparation, National Health officially released its self-titled debut album in 1978 through Affinity Records.

Blending progressive rock with jazz and classical influences, the album featured compositions by the band's members.

"Tenemos Roads" and "Borogoves (Excerpt from Part Two)" were composed by Stewart, "Brujo" was written by Gowen, while "Elephants" was co-written by Stewart and Gowen.

In the same year, they released their sophomore album, Of Queues and Cures. The album also introduced cellist Georgie Born.

Despite continuing to make music and perform live, National Health officially disbanded in 1980.

Constant shifts in musical direction, coupled with personal issues, ultimately brought the five-year-old band to an end.

However, the following year, they reunited to perform at a memorial concert following the death of one of the band's founding members, Alan Gowen.

In 1982, they released Coda, a posthumous tribute featuring Gowen's unreleased compositions and recordings.

Related: '80s Rock Band, Formed by Accident, Ranked Among 'Best Supergroups' of All Time

Nearly 50 years after turning a sci-fi funk fantasy into one of music's most unforgettable stage moments, George Clinton has brought the Mothership back to life.

The 84-year-old music icon unveiled a newly rebuilt version of the legendary spacecraft during Essence Music Festival in New Orleans on Sunday night, marking the third version of the famous stage prop that helped define the visual identity of Parliament-Funkadelic.

The dramatic return came roughly an hour into the band's performance as they played "Mothership Connection (Star Child)." Bright lights, fog effects and extraterrestrial sounds filled the arena before the metallic craft slowly descended from above the stage. 

George Clinton and the Parliament Funkadelic perform onstage on Night 3 during the 2026 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture at Caesars Superdome on July 05, 2026 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Photo by Paras Griffin/WireImage

Moments later, Clinton emerged from the ship dressed in his trademark intergalactic style before launching into Parliament's 1978 No. 1 hit, "Flash Light."

The appearance marked a rare revival of one of the most famous stage productions in funk history and arrived almost five decades after "Flash Light" topped the charts.

Before the show, Clinton confirmed the updated Mothership closely follows the design of the original.

"It’s made from the same blueprint," Clinton told Vibe. "It’s actually the same ship, made from the same blueprint as the first one."

The funk legend said the new version was built in Nashville using lighter materials and modern technology while preserving the look that fans remember from the 1970s.

"It’s probably up to date with the lights for this era, but other than that, the ship looks the same," he said, according to VIBE.

When asked about the original 1,200-pound structure, Clinton added: "It probably don’t, but it look like it do ‘cause they can do that with this technology now."

The original Mothership first landed in 1976 during the P-Funk Earth Tour, shortly after Parliament released the groundbreaking album Mothership Connection in 1975.

Created with theatrical stage designer Jules Fisher and set designer Peter Larkin, the massive prop served as transportation for Clinton's alter ego, Dr. Funkenstein, who would emerge from the spacecraft during performances surrounded by lights, smoke and pyrotechnics.

At the time, the production stood apart from nearly everything in popular music.

"Back in those days, in the early ‘70s, the only big, big, big prop was Pink Floyd," Clinton said. "I always thought that’s where P-Funk should go. I wanted to have a 'funk opera.'"

The original prop was eventually retired as transportation and maintenance costs increased. Clinton later revealed the first Mothership was sold and scrapped during the 1980s as he dealt with financial struggles and debt.

A second version arrived during the 1990s and was later placed on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.

The latest version represents the third generation of the spacecraft and arrives as the original Mothership approaches its 50th anniversary. The funk pioneer added that the band had spent the last several years performing successfully without it.

For a performer whose influence stretches from funk and rock to hip-hop and G-funk, the return of the Mothership is another chapter in a career that continues to evolve decades after its biggest hits first reached listeners.

Related: ’70s Rock Legend Dismisses Farewell Tour 64 Years After Beginning Career

Garth Brooks is hitting the road!

The "Friends In Low Places" artist shocked lifelong fans when he announced his upcoming arena tour. Country music fans were equally shocked to learn that the Grammy Award winner has set a flat-rate ticket price for every seat in the house.

The Blame It All on My Roots Tour will kick off in Indianapolis on August 21 and 22, with tickets going on sale on July 17.

The back-to-back nights at Gainbridge Fieldhouse — which are the only dates announced so far — will serve as the basis for a new live album. All tickets will be $154 (plus applicable fees), regardless of the section, giving concertgoers a break from the dreaded dynamic pricing that has become the norm.

"Going back into the arenas is about putting the stadium show in a box," Brooks said in a press release shared on Tuesday, July 7. "The excitement gets multiplied by the intimacy. Every seat is a great seat. This is personal."

Garth shared the exciting news of his upcoming tour via Instagram with a nod to his iconic 1996 tour.

View this post on Instagram

"How long has it been, old girl?" the "Much Too Young" artist said, referring to his spinning gyroscopic drum cage used during his 1996 World Tour. "30 years, a little dusty. Maybe it’s time we could put you back to work."

The clip read, "The retro arena tour is coming. 1996 to 2026."

Today's NYT Strands Puzzle answer refer to someone who'm always into something bad, and it’s all about staying on the move. Speaking of, move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times' recent game, "Strands," is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.

With daily themes and "spangrams" to discover, this is the latest addictive game to cross off your to-do list before a new one pops up 24 hours later.

We'll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today's Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #857 on Wednesday, July 8.

How to Play Strands

The New York Times

According to the New York Times, here's exactly how to play Strands:

Find theme words to fill the board.

• Theme words stay highlighted in blue when found.
• Drag or tap letters to create words. If tapping, double-tap the last letter to submit.
• Theme words fill the board entirely. No theme words overlap.

Find the “spangram.”

• The spangram describes the puzzle's theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words.
• The spangram highlights in yellow when found.
• An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR, FRUIT, BANANA, APPLE, etc.

Need a hint?

• Find non-theme words to get hints.
• For every three non-theme words you find, you earn a hint.
• Hints show the letters of a theme word. If there is already an active hint on the board, a hint will show that word's letter order.

What Is Today's Strands Hint for the Theme: "Here comes trouble"

A hint for today's Strands game: Naughty!

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

In today's puzzle, there are five theme words to find (including the spangram). Here are the first two letters for each word:

• SC
• HE
• RA
• WH
• (SPANGRAM) LI

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

Today's Spangram is a mix of vertical and horizontal.

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for July 8

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Wednesday, July 8, 2026, isLITTLEDEVIL.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Wednesday, July 8?

• SCAMP
• HELLION
• RAPSCALLION
• WHIPPERSNAPPER
• SPANGRAM: LITTLEDEVIL

Related: Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Tuesday, July 7, 2026

Today’s New York Times Connections puzzle takes you to be musical or skilled in cooking or woodworking. There's nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, Strands, Mini Crossword and Connections Sports Edition word games in one fell swoop. But sometimes that can be easier said than done. If you need help with today's Connections puzzle, keep reading.

Spoilers ahead! We've warned you. We mean it. Read no further until you really want some clues or you've completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today's NYT 'Connections’ hints and answers for #1123 onWednesday, July 8, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Wednesday, July 8, 2026 / New York Times

NEW YORK TIMES

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Wednesday's puzzle, you're not alone, and these hints should definitely help you out. Plus, I'll reveal the answers further down.

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Wednesday, July 8

1. Chefs are good at this.
2. Recurring subject.
3. Grab your six-string.
4. Home, sweet home.

Related: 300 Trivia Questions and Answers to Jumpstart Your Fun Game Night

Ready for the answers? Scroll below this image (the image that represents your very appreciated patience!).

iStock

Today's Connections Game Answers for Wednesday, July 8:

1. CUT INTO THIN PIECES: GRATE, PLANE, SHAVE, SILVER
2. MOTIF: DRIFT, PLOT, THEME, THREAD
3. GUITAR-PLAYING TECHNIQUES: PICK, PLUCK, STRUM, TAP
4. HOUSE OF ____: CARDS, LORDS, WAX, WORSHIP

How'd you do?

Up Next:

- 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
- Hints, Clues and Answers to the NYT's 'Mini Crossword' Puzzle

Did You Miss a Few Days? Let's Catch You Up With Recent Connections Answers

Related: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Tuesday, July 7, 2026

Who ever said that in-store shopping was dead?

Among the stops during your visits to the mall back in the day might have been Spencer's — and the popular retailer is still going strong with a recent expansion.

Out of the major project came the reopening of the chain's 60-year-old flagship store in New Jersey, Patch.com reports. It now has a larger sales floor and a new, revamped look for shoppers who are still grasping at that nostalgic thrill of browsing in person. C'mon, online shopping just isn't the same, is it?

Spencer’s held the grand reopening event at Cherry Hill Mall earlier this month, where the chain had opened its first-ever brick-and-mortar store in 1963.

The retailer, known for pop culture gifts, gag items, T-shirts, lava lamps and risqué merchandise, has been part of the mall for more than 60 years, the U.S. Sun reports. Its new location in the mall’s JCPenney wing includes around 2,700 square feet of sales space — reportedly up from about 1,750 square feet at its previous spot.

A plaque outside the store identifies the site as Store #001, honoring Cherry Hill as Spencer’s first retail location. And a faux cornerstone near the entrance also features the year 1947, when the company began as a mail-order catalog business.

The company started as Spencer Gifts in Pennsylvania before taking its current name in 2003. It has since grown to more than 680 stores, as well as an online marketplace.

The chain still sells nostalgic favorites such as whoopee cushions and lava lamps, but its product range has also expanded heavily over the generations, the U.S. Sun also noted.

"Spencer's is about self-expression and discovering something unexpected," Lori Tesoro, Spencer's director of public relations, recently told Patch. "We want customers to leave having had fun and feeling like Spencer's is a place they can always be themselves, no matter who that is."

On what would have been Toby Keith's 65th birthday, fans are remembering the country icon through the song that started it all.

Long before hits like "Courtesy of the Red, White & Blue," "Beer for My Horses" and "As Good as I Once Was," Keith introduced himself to country music with "Should've Been a Cowboy." Released in 1993 as his debut single, the song quickly climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, launching a career that would span more than three decades.

But its success didn't end there.

"Should've Been a Cowboy" went on to become the most-played country song of the 1990s on radio, racking up more than three million spins and cementing its place as one of the defining songs of the decade. More than 30 years after its release, the track remains one of Keith's signature songs and continues to find new audiences.

Fans are still celebrating the song online.

On Reddit, fans are calling the Keith tune "one of many of his best songs!"

"The older I get the more I appreciate his older music and purposefully try to forget his newer stuff," another added.

"I'll always love this one," another fan chimed in. "One of the few songs I can recite nearly every word without hearing a lick of it."

Others called the song their "go-to" for karaoke.

Keith once revealed the inspiration for the song came after watching an older man get turned down for a dance at a bar, only to see a younger cowboy arrive moments later and win the woman's attention. The moment sparked the now-famous title and eventually became one of country music's biggest crossover hits.

Keith died on Feb. 5, 2024, at age 62 after battling stomach cancer. However, his music continues to resonate with fans old and new.

Following his death, "Should've Been a Cowboy" returned to the country charts, a testament to the enduring popularity of the song that introduced the world to one of country music's biggest stars.

RELATED: In 1976, Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings Came Together for Two Outlaw Country Classics

Today's NYT Wordle can refer to a evil spirit. But the day just isn't complete until I've solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword. If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1845 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

There are two vowels in today's five-letter word.

What kind of letter does today's Wordle start with?

Today's Wordle begins with a consonant.

Are there any double letters?

There are no double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle

A hint for today's Wordle is: It refers to an evil, malevolent supernatural entity.

OK, that's it for hints—I don't want to totally give it away before revealing the answer!

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

We'll have the answer below this friendly reminder of how to play the game.

SPOILERS BELOW—do not scroll any further if you don't want the answer revealed.

The New York Times

Today's Wordle Answer for #1845 on Wednesday, July 8, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, is DEMON.

-If you missed it, catch up with the answer to yesterday’s Wordle.

Related: Every 5 Letter Word Wordle Hasn't Used Yet (Updated Daily)