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Thirty years after Hey Arnold! debuted, its original voice actor is getting a whole new kind of attention.

Lane Toran, who voiced Arnold during the show’s first season, recently shared a video celebrating the animated series’ 30th anniversary.

“So it’s been brought to my attention that today is the 30th anniversary of Hey Arnold, which is absolutely insane,” Toran began the Instagram video, which was shared on October 7. While the actor was busy reminiscing about his time on the show, some viewers were apparently more distracted by how handsome he looks today.

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A post shared by Lane Toran (@lane_toran)

“Bro you are too fine🔥 Amazing. And congratulations 😭,” one person replied.

“arnold, you’re all grown up 🥹 bout to pull a helga and put a picture of you in a locket,” another joked.

A third said, “I just KNEW the voice of Arnold was a cute a** boy lol my fav show.”

Others reminisced on how much the show impacted them growing up.

“I am almost 39 and Hey Arnold is still so monumental to me,” one shared.

“37 and the impact Hey Arnold had is something I’ll carry forever,” another replied.

READ MORE: ‘Parent Trap’ Star Elaine Hendrix Hilariously Defends Meredith Blake in Viral Instagram Trend

He then revealed a special package he’d received from series creator Craig Bartlett. Inside was an original animation cel from the show, something Toran previously owned as a child before it was destroyed in a flood. “I’m really, really happy to have one again,” he said, showing off the keepsake.

Bartlett also included a handwritten note referencing an upcoming 25-city tour and plans to reunite with Toran in New York. For the actor, the anniversary was an opportunity to thank the fans who’ve kept the series alive. “It’s been a real honor for me to have been Arnold for season one,” he said, adding that meeting viewers at conventions over the years has been particularly rewarding.

Hey Arnold! premiered on Nickelodeon in 1996 and followed Arnold, a fourth grader living with his grandparents in a boarding house in the fictional city of Hillwood. The series became a childhood staple thanks to its memorable characters, including Arnold’s best friend Gerald and his secret admirer, Helga Pataki. It ran for five seasons before ending in 2004.

Toran provided Arnold’s voice during the first season before other actors took over the role.

Janis Joplin never did anything halfway. The queen of blues-rock had a powerhouse of a voice and a gift for turning the ordinary into something extraordinary. As she once said, her mantra was “to be true to myself, to be the person that I…was on the inside and not play games.” So, when she bought a used Porsche in 1968, it was only a matter of time before the car became as unforgettable as the woman behind the wheel. And talk about a transformation!

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A Porsche with a Cosmic Makeover

In 1968, Joplin bought a used 1964 Porsche 356C 1600 SC Cabriolet for $3,500. The sleek German sports car was already a beauty, but Janis wasn’t interested in driving around in something that looked like everybody else’s ride.

She wanted something with soul. Something wild. Something unmistakably Janis. So she turned to her roadie, Dave Richards, an artist who would soon receive one of the most unusual commissions in rock ’n’ roll history. Janis reportedly paid him $500 and gave him little direction. According to accounts of the project, her instructions were delightfully simple:

“Paint it.”

She offered no elaborate sketches. No color charts. No committee meetings about artistic direction. Just a Porsche, a paintbrush, and the creative freedom to go gloriously overboard.

Richards rose to the occasion, transforming the car into a rolling psychedelic masterpiece titled The History of the Universe. Its body became a riot of vivid colors and fantastical imagery: landscapes, mysterious eyes, mushrooms, skulls, birds, and Janis’s Capricorn astrological sign.

The finished car looked like a psychedelic dream had collided with a rock concert and decided to take a road trip. It was a kaleidoscope of color that captured the freewheeling spirit of the 1960s. Imagine Joplin cruising through the streets in a Porsche that seemed to contain an entire universe on its bodywork. The singer was driving a moving work of counterculture art.

Related: 56 Years Ago Today, a ’60s Legend Recorded the Iconic Song She Helped Write at a New York Bar. She Died 3 Days Later

Janis Joplin and her famous Porsche Janis Joplin Loved Her Porsche and Said So

Joplin wasn’t just happy with the car’s outrageous appearance. She was excited about the Porsche itself, too. In a letter home dated September 28, 1968, she described her new purchase as “very fancy, high class and a great car too.”

Her enthusiasm was understandable. She had bought a stylish European sports car, then transformed it into a rolling expression of her own imagination. It was luxury while also being a rebel.

The Porsche and the Mercedes-Benz Irony

But wait. There’s another delightful Porsche connection in Janis’s musical legacy. In October 1970, she recorded “Mercedes Benz,” a playful, a Capella song that pokes fun at consumerism and the desire to keep up with the Joneses. Its opening line became one of her most recognizable:

“Oh Lord, won’t you buy me a Mercedes-Benz?” she sings. And she follows it with a memorable reference to her friends driving Porsches. “My friends all drive Porsches, I must make amends. Worked hard all my lifetime, no help from my friends. So,
oh, Lord, won’t you buy me a Mercedes Benz?”

But here’s the irony: Janis herself owned a Porsche! The woman who drove a wildly customized German sports car could also poke fun at the social status and materialism associated with expensive automobiles. Joplin’s Porsche wasn’t just a badge of wealth. Its psychedelic paint job made it a statement of individuality. She didn’t just want a fancy car. She wanted a car that expressed who she was.

Related: 1960s Rock Legend Quietly Bought a Headstone for Blues Icon Bessie Smith Decades After Her Tragic Death

The Enduring Legacy

Sadly, Janis’s life was cut short in 1970, when she died at just 27 years old from an accidental heroin overdose. But her music endured, and so did the colorful Porsche that had become part of her story.

The car went on to spend approximately 20 years on display at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, where visitors could admire its extraordinary artwork and connect with the era and the artist it represented.

The $1.76 Million Auction Surprise

Then came December 10, 2015.

At an RM Sotheby’s auction, Joplin’s Porsche went under the hammer with an estimated value of $600,000. That was already a remarkable figure, but collectors clearly understood that they weren’t bidding on an ordinary vintage convertible.

When the auction ended, the final price reached an astonishing $1.76 million. If you do the math, Joplin paid $3,500 for the Porsche and another $500 for the paint job. The total original outlay was $4,000. The 2015 auction price was 440 times that original amount, before accounting for inflation, maintenance, or other expenses.

Of course, the car’s value wasn’t simply about its age, engineering, or rarity. The fact that it belonged to Janis Joplin made it uniquely desirable. The mural was inseparable from the woman who commissioned it, the music she created, and the cultural revolution she helped soundtrack.

Janis Joplin’s psychedelic Porsche is a symbol of the uniquely talented woman who drove it. It’s bold and unconventional. She bought a used car, handed an artist $500, and gave him the freedom to turn it into something extraordinary. She didn’t follow the rules of automotive style or much of anything else. She made her own.

Joplin marched to the beat of her own drum, living loudly, loving fiercely, and expressing herself without apology. Her music was raw and soulful. Her style was unmistakable, and her personality was entirely her own. At a time when the world often expected women to fit neatly into prescribed roles, Janis refused to be put in a box. She was gloriously imperfect, fiercely independent, and utterly unique.

That Porsche is a reminder of a woman who dared to be different and left an indelible mark on music and culture. Perhaps the best way to understand Janis Joplin, her music, and that unforgettable psychedelic Porsche is through the words often attributed to her: “Don’t compromise yourself. You’re all you’ve got.”

Next, 1971 Hit Reached No. 1 55 Years Ago Today — Five Months After Singer’s Death

Kelly Clarkson is being accused of taking a private shopping dispute too far after publicly criticizing a Brooklyn store over a $15,000 mechanical bird.

Art of Play co-owner Adam Rubin says the fallout from Clarkson’s social media posts has gone far beyond an unhappy customer airing a complaint.

“Kelly Clarkson has put us in danger,” Rubin told New York magazine’s Curbed in an interview published Tuesday, October 13, claiming the store has received threats, negative reviews and harassment since the singer criticized her experience there.

Why Is Adam Rubin Criticizing Kelly Clarkson? THE VOICE — “The Battles Premiere” Episode 2904 — Pictured: Kelly Clarkson

(Photo by: Ashley Osborn/NBC)

Rubin separately told Page Six that the response directed at his business has been overwhelming. “It’s a pop star, a mechanical bird, it’s surreal. When this thing first started, everybody wanted us to die,” he said.

“And as the truth has come to light, thinking people realize this is reprehensible abuse of power,” Rubin continued. 

“We have to reconsider the place we give celebrities in our society.” The shop owner said employees, neighbors, and people who defended the business online have also been targeted.

What Did Kelly Clarkson Say About Art of Play?

Clarkson, 44, first criticized Art of Play after visiting the Brooklyn Heights store and asking about Molly, a mechanical singing bird.

Just drove all the way to Brooklyn to check out this store I thought looked really rad and had a few things in mind to buy and literally was looked at as if I couldn’t afford it and was told he could find something comparable for me. Wow, dude. You’re an idiot and just lost a…

— Kelly Clarkson (@kellyclarkson) October 10, 2026

The “Since U Been Gone” singer said an employee looked her over as if she couldn’t afford the $15,000 item and offered to find her something “comparable.”

She compared the encounter to Julia Roberts’ famous shopping scene in Pretty Woman and called the employee an “idiot.”

What Does Art of Play Say Happened? View this post on Instagram

The store disputes Clarkson’s description. Rubin said Molly is used in the shop’s magic shows and could not simply be taken off the wall and sold.

He said another automaton could potentially have been specially ordered from its creator.

“Regardless of what happened in the shop, a misunderstanding in a crowded shop – everybody that comes into the store is treated the same, like a normal person. That’s what pissed her off,” Rubin told Page Six.

Has the Kelly Clarkson Feud Been Resolved? View this post on Instagram

Not yet.

Rubin said Clarkson would still be welcome in the store, but argued that the larger issue is how celebrities use enormous social media platforms against smaller businesses.

Clarkson has stood by her account of what happened inside the shop. A source close to the singer previously told Page Six, “You know something must have really bothered her because that’s just not who she is.”

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For now, neither side appears ready to concede that the bizarre dispute over Molly was simply a misunderstanding.

The Battles continued in earnest tonight for Season 30 of The Voice with coaches Kelly Clarkson, Queen Latifah, Adam Levine and Riley Green pairing two of their teammates in a duet for which they chose the song and which determines who will be moving on to Cut Week.

But before the new Battles began Kaleigh Matthews, who was on Team Queen, but lost her Battle, had the choice of joining either Team Kelly or Team Riley, both of whom wanted to use their Steal to get the four-chair-turn artist on their team. Kaleigh chose to join Team Riley.

The Battles also saw the return of celebrity advisors. Kelly Clarkson will work with Ariana DeBose, Queen Latifah will work with Patti LaBelle, Adam Levine will work with Alex Warren and Riley Green will work with Carley Pearce.

Here’s a spoiler-filled recap of how the night played out and who went home on The Voice tonight.

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Who went home on The Voice Season 30 tonight? Brendan Coulter
Johnnie Kaprua
Hazel Gerson
Luke Cope
Luke Curran Advancing Artists Tonight on The Voice Season 30 Battles Night 2 Anna McElroy
BigCountry
Chari (4-chair turn)
Evan James
Keiyana Osmond
Marcus Ladden Jr.
Nina Howland (4-chair turn)

Related: The Teams Are Full! Meet The Voice Season 30 Rosters for Kelly, Adam, Latifah, and Riley

Battle Round 1: Luke Cope vs BigCountry from Team Queen

Song: “Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton

Winner: Big Country

Queen said: “Luke improved by leaps and bounds but BigCountry is a presence, a force to be reckoned with. So comfortable, so confident, full of energy, life and voice and ability. He is somebody everybody loved from the beginning.”

Battle Round 2: Anna McElroy vs Johnnie Kaprua from Team Kelly

Song: “”Some Things I’ll Never Know” by Teddy Swims and Maren Morris

Winner: Anna McElroy

Kelly said: “Anna and Johnnie that was hard. Anna’s voice is special. The fact that she can sound pure and raw at the same time is very unique. I think Anna has a solid shot at winning The Voice.”

Battle Round 3: Brendan Coulter vs Keiyana Osmond from Team Riley

Song: “She Will Be Loved” by Maroon 5

Winner: Keiyana Osmond

Riley said: “Brendan vs Keiyana was an extremely difficult decision, and I had to go with my gut. I love that Keiyana has an R&B kind of thing that draws you in. There’s no one like Keiyana on the show.”

Related: The Voice Season 30: Who Went Home and Who Made It Through the Battles Last Night?

Battle Round 4: Evan James vs Luke Curran from Team Adam

Song: “Wind Up Missin’ You” by Tucker Wetmore

Winner: Evan James

Adam said: “Evan edged him out a little bit. He has a big, powerful voice that fills a room and whenever that happens, it is incredibly hard not to stay with someone like that. He could surprise us all and absolutely smash Cut Week.”

Battle Round 5: Hazel Gerson vs Nina Howland from Team Kelly

Song: “Breathe Me” by Sia

Winner: Nina Howland

Riley said: “Hazel and Nina were one of my hardest pairings because I felt both of them did equally well on that song. They bring something out in each other. I went with Nina because Nina’s voice is incredible to me. I think she’s going to be a dark horse in this competition.”

Battle Round 6: Marcus Ladden Jr. vs Chari from Team Queen

Song: “On My Own” by Patti LaBelle and Michael MacDonald

Winner: Chari

Queen said: “Chari and Marcus were wonderful together. I had to pick Chari because she’s just so special. Her control of her voice is so deft. I just enjoy watching her, so I want to see her more.”

Steal: Marcus Ladden Jr.

Kelly said: “I kind of had to use my Steal on Marcus. He’s the whole package. He has range, he has tone, he has the emotionality you want from a singer. With Marcus, Cut Week is going to be hard.”

The Voice airs Monday night at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC. Streams next day on Peacock.

Next, The Voice Returns for a Milestone 30th Season with Stunning New Format Twists

The quickest way to refresh an entryway for a new season is often to start at ground level. A seasonal doormat can set the mood before guests step inside, especially when it adds color, texture and a little fun to an otherwise simple front step.

While a classic rectangular mat is always useful, a decorative shape offers more visual impact. It can make a small porch feel intentionally styled even if the only other additions are a couple of pumpkins and a plant near the door.

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Pumpkin Coir Doormat, $8.99 at Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby’s Orange Pumpkin Coir Doormat brings that idea to life with a rounded pumpkin silhouette in vivid autumn orange. A green stem at the top completes the look, giving the mat a playful design that can brighten up a covered doorstep throughout the season.

The mat works especially well as the starting point for a traditional fall arrangement. Surround it with a mix of orange, cream and sage-green pumpkins, then add a small pot of golden mums for extra color. A lantern with an LED candle can cast a soft glow after dark.

For a more layered look, position the pumpkin mat on top of a larger outdoor rug. A muted stripe or neutral woven pattern can help the orange shape stand out, while a black-and-cream check design creates a more graphic, farmhouse-inspired effect.

Related: Hobby Lobby’s Festive $15 Fall Doormat Will Deliver a Gorgeous Refresh to Your Entryway

Care Tips for Coir Doormats

Because it is made from coir, the mat has a naturally bristled surface that can help remove loose dirt from shoes before they enter the house. Coir works best in a dry, sheltered space, so a porch with an overhang or a covered front entry is ideal.

Hobby Lobby has offered pumpkin-themed fall mats for $14.99 before discounts, and the retailer often includes fall merchandise in seasonal promotions. Final cost and availability can vary, particularly as fall stock sells through.

Whether paired with a full display of mums and pumpkins or used alone for a smaller seasonal update, this bold doormat makes a friendly first impression for fall.

Related: Target’s $80 Textured Blanket Could Give Your Bedroom a Cozy, Designer-Inspired Look

Some of the biggest rock songs ever started with a simple, passing remark that seemed inconsequential at the time. This was the case with the English rock band Procol Harum’s debut single, “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” which became part of the signature sound during 1967’s Summer of Love.

Band member and main songwriter Keith Reid got the spark for the song while at a party where Guy Stevens of Island Records was there with his wife, Diane Cox. He allegedly said to her in passing, “You’ve turned a whiter shade of pale,” and Reid overheard, with the phrase sticking in his mind.

He then went home and wrote the lyrics, with the composition coming from fellow band members Gary Brooker and Matthew Fisher, who brought in the iconic organ part.

Reid described writing the song as a sort of jigsaw puzzle, telling Songfacts, “I feel with songs that you’re given a piece of the puzzle, the inspiration or whatever. In this case, I had that title, ‘Whiter Shade of Pale,’ and I thought, ‘There’s a song here.’ And it’s making up the puzzle that fits the piece you’ve got. You fill out the picture, you find the rest of the picture that that piece fits into.”

Thankfully, it all came together, and the band’s recording of the track was even better, making “A White Shade of Pale” the main contender for the lead single. It was released in May 1967 as Procol Harum’s lead single, with “Lime Street Blues” as the B-side.

The song was an immediate success, becoming one of the anthems of the Summer of Love. It quickly topped music charts in the U.K. and held the No. 1 spot for six weeks. It reached No. 1 in many more countries as well, including Canada, Switzerland, Spain, Ireland, Brazil, and more, while it peaked at No. 5 in the U.S.

Related: 1967 Psychedelic Rock Song, Ranked Among The “Greatest Songs of All Time,” Is Still A Classic Rock Anthem 59 Years Later

These days, it’s a rock classic, and Paste magazine even ranked it at No. 48 on its list of the “100 Greatest Songs of the 1960s.” The publication praised the track, calling it “the rare song that feels less like listening than remembering.” It also spotlighted the organ in the song, adding, “It’s also probably as close to an objectively beautiful song as one could get: that hymnal organ, Gary Brooker’s soulful rasp, the slow churn of the drums.”

Over the years, “A Whiter Shade of Pale” has gone on to sell more than 10 million copies worldwide, and it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998.

Related: 1968 Soft-Rock Hit Written in 5 Minutes in a Bathroom Featuring Violins Named One of the Greatest Songs of the 1960s

It’s unusual for a novel to receive overwhelmingly positive reviews even if the prose is objectively perfect, as critics have their own tastes and preferences. However, the publication Collider recently spotlighted several classic pieces of literature that have been showered with accolades since publication.

The ranking, titled “The 20 Most Universally Acclaimed Books of All Time,” included beloved novels like 1965’s Dune by Frank Herbert, The Shining by Stephen King, released in 1977, and J.R.R. Tolkien‘s The Lord of the Rings series, published between 1954 and 1955. According to Collider, 1869’s War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy is the “most universally acclaimed book of all time.”

The over 1,000-page novel, which looks at the impact of the Napoleonic Wars, has a score of 4.17 out of 5 from 379,400 readers on Goodreads.

Tolstoy’s epic tale has had several adaptations on the screen and stage. Most recently, the BBC released a six-episode series in 2016. The writer behind the 2016 War and Peace adaptation, Andrew Davies, discussed making Tolstoy’s grand novel suitable for television audiences during an interview with the BBC.

Davies admitted that he hadn’t read the novel “before the BBC suggested” that he should write episodes for the adaptation. He said upon reading Tolstoy’s work, he “was absolutely surprised to find out how fresh and lively and modern it felt.”

“I thought it was going to be this great solemn tome. But there’s a lot of humour and affection in it. Once you’ve cut out the bits where Tolstoy is arguing with himself about theories of history, it’s such a vibrant, fun and very moving story with really, really interesting characters. He’s just so good on different sorts of family dynamics. I just fell in love with it,” said Davies during the 2016 BBC interview.

Davies also said he stayed true to Tolstoy’s structure and storylines.

“I haven’t felt any need to change War & Peace. Occasionally I have written one or two things that Tolstoy forgot to write!” said the screenwriter, now 90.

Leslie Van Houten, a former follower of cult leader Charles Manson, was released on parole in July 2023 after spending more than 52 years in prison for her role in the 1969 LaBianca murders.

Two years later, the California native reached another major milestone after marking the end of her court-ordered supervision.

“Leslie is very pleased that her hard work in reforming herself in prison over the past five decades has been recognized by the parole board and appellate court,” Van Houten’s attorney, Nancy Tetreault, told NPR, adding that she would be transferred to a transitional living facility.

In August 2025, Van Houten reportedly ended her court-ordered supervision after completing the requirements for her parole discharge.

Sheron Lawin, a member of the Board of Prison Terms commissioners, listens to Leslie Van Houten, after her parole was denied 28 June 2002 at the California Institution for Women in Corona, California.

DAMIAN DOVARGANES/AFP via Getty Images

Leslie Van Houten’s Involvement with the LaBianca Murders

Van Houten was 19 years old when she participated in the murders of supermarket executive Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary, inside their Los Angeles home. She was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder and one count of conspiracy.

According to court documents cited by the outlet, Manson promoted the idea of “an impending bloody, civilization-ending, worldwide race war between Blacks and Whites” and used this ideology to influence his followers and justify violence.

In August 1969, Manson and members of his group began carrying out a series of gruesome murders.

In testimony and interviews, Van Houten described how she was taken to the LaBiancas’ residence with fellow Manson Family members Patricia Krenwinkel and Charles “Tex” Watson.

She held Rosemary LaBianca down while the others stabbed her, then stabbed the victim more than a dozen times, according to NPR.

Manson family members and murder suspects Susan Atkins, Patricia Krenwinkel, and Leslie Van Houten.

Getty Images

“The next morning, Mrs. LaBianca’s teenaged son discovered Mr. LaBianca’s body with a knife stuck in his neck, a carving fork protruding from his stomach, and the word ‘war’ carved into his skin,” California Governor Gavin Newsom noted in his reversal.

Van Houten was arrested in November 1969. After her original conviction and death sentence were overturned and subsequent court proceedings followed, she was convicted again in 1978 and eventually sentenced to seven years to life in prison after years of court proceedings and reversals.

Now 77, Van Houten is free from parole supervision for the first time since her release from prison after more than five decades behind bars.

While Van Houten was the first woman from the Manson Family to be released on parole, Steven “Clem” Grogan, who participated in the 1969 murder of Donald “Shorty” Shea, was the first Manson Family member convicted of murder to be freed.

Related: Mark David Chapman has been denied parole 14 times since killing John Lennon in 1980; he is still at New York’s Green Haven prison and is eligible again in February 2027

One of rock music’s most legendary songs has just crossed a line its creators long resisted. After rarely granting permission to use “Stairway to Heaven” in movies, Led Zeppelin has made an exception for a highly anticipated new fantasy film.

The reason comes down to a story that has captivated generations.

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Greta Gerwig’s New ‘Narnia’ Movie Features the Rock Classic

After reimagining Mattel’s Barbie for modern audiences and adapting Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women for the big screen, Greta Gerwig is now tackling C.S. Lewis’ world of Narnia. Her latest project, Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew, adapts Lewis’ 1955 prequel, which explores the creation of Narnia.

The first trailer debuted on Oct. 13, 2026, featuring Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” during a sweeping, fantastical sequence. The film stars newcomers David McKenna and Beatrice Campbell, alongside Daniel Craig, Emma Mackey, Carey Mulligan, and Meryl Streep, who voices Aslan.

The movie is scheduled for a theatrical release on Feb. 12, 2027, followed by its Netflix debut on April 2. But its use of the rock classic may be just as noteworthy as the fantasy world it brings to life.

Why Led Zeppelin Finally Said Yes to ‘Narnia’

Jimmy Page and Robert Plant have rarely granted permission to license “Stairway to Heaven” for films. Gerwig, however, personally appealed to the musicians, meeting with both to discuss the movie and its themes.

Gerwig said the song’s spiritual journey made it a natural fit for a story about creating a fantastical world. She said the musicians’ appreciation for Lewis’ work also helped secure their approval.

“They did it because they saw the heart in the story,” Gerwig said. “And they, too, love C.S. Lewis.”

The director’s connection to Lewis’ books runs deep. Speaking about their influence on her life, Gerwig said, “I would not be who I am without these books. They created me.”

For a song that filmmakers have long struggled to secure, their shared appreciation for Lewis offered a meaningful reason to make an exception.

A Brief History of Led Zeppelin’s ‘Stairway to Heaven’

Released in 1971 on the band’s untitled fourth album, commonly known as Led Zeppelin IV, “Stairway to Heaven” became one of Led Zeppelin’s defining songs. Written by Page and Plant, the track is known for its gradual build, starting with acoustic guitar and recorder before building to an electric-guitar solo and an explosive finale.

Although it was never released as a commercial single in the United Kingdom, the song became a staple of classic-rock radio and one of the most celebrated tracks in the band’s catalog. It is frequently included in discussions and rankings of the greatest rock songs ever written.

Its legacy has also made its licensing history particularly notable. Despite its enduring popularity, the song has remained an elusive choice for filmmakers hoping to use it in their movies.

‘Narnia’ Gets What ‘Almost Famous’ Couldn’t

Cameron Crowe learned just how difficult it could be to secure the song for a movie. For his 2000 film Almost Famous, which follows a young journalist touring with a fictional rock band, Crowe filmed a scene built around “Stairway to Heaven.” Led Zeppelin, however, ultimately refused permission to use it.

In a later interview with Vanity Fair, Crowe recalled that the band considered the song too iconic to commercialize further. However, Page offered an alternative, telling Crowe he could use another Led Zeppelin song, “Bron-Y-Aur-Stomp,” for free.

The scene featuring “Stairway to Heaven” was left out of the theatrical version, although it was made available as an interactive feature on the film’s DVD release.

More than two decades later, Gerwig has secured permission to use the song in Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew. For fans of both the band and the fantasy series, the pairing marks a rare moment when one of rock’s most celebrated songs meets a story about the birth of an entirely new world.

Related: Bono’s Oldest Daughter Undergoes Major Transformation, Reveals Heartbreak Behind It All

Disney is bringing fresh new advent calendar options to your holiday wish lists with its collaboration with PopSockets. This season, the brands have joined forces to launch an adorable collection of phone accessories, charms, and trinkets to sprinkle a little pixie dust wherever you go.

The PopSockets Disney Advent Calendar includes “12 days of holiday magic” and a surprise behind every door—from phone grips and charms to wristlets and wallets galore. With pieces made to mix and match, the brand invites fans to “style it your way, change it every day, and keep the Disney magic going—from park days to movie nights.”

For those unfamiliar with the brand, PopSockets fuses convenience and functionality with style, offering a variety of magnetic, expandable grips for your cell phone to fit any personality. The accessories connect to the back of your phone case, acting as both a grip and phone stand, making it easier to hold (particularly while on the go) and reducing the risk of dropping it. Overall, it’s designed to improve how you hold and use your device.

The box is perfectly giftable, featuring an adorable wintry scene as iconic pals Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Pluto, Donald Duck, and his triplet nephews, Huey, Dewey, and Louie Duck, take to the slopes all bundled up in ski gear. A sneak preview of what’s inside displays a bright red, plush Mickey ears-shaped pop grip, an elegant white-and-gold Mickey ears-embossed pop grip, a beaded wristlet, a green-and-red Christmas-themed Fair Isle-print magnetic wallet, and more.

Retailing for $128, the set is a special-edition item and likely won’t last long (Disney fans, move quickly!) It officially releases online at PopSockets.com on Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026.

For true Disney lovers, PopSockets’ new advent calendar should be a welcome addition to its ever-expanding lineup. One Disney World park-goer took to social media last year to plead, “Disney needs to release more of these MagSafe popsockets,” after finding a plaid Mickey Santa wreath PopSocket at Animal Kingdom.

Well, there are plenty of new options now!

Related: J.Crew’s New Special-Edition Collection Brings Playful Energy to Holiday Traditions

Priscilla Presley has just introduced her fans to a new member of the family, and he’s absolutely adorable!

“Meet Toby,” Priscilla wrote in the caption of an Instagram post that she shared on Tuesday, October 13. In an accompanying video, the businesswoman, actress, and writer can be seen with a fluffy white dog sitting on her lap.

Explaining that Toby is a rescue pet, she tells those who are watching, “He was on the streets, and somebody told me about him, and this person knows that I’m an animal lover and a dog lover, so she told me about Toby here.”

Mentioning that “everyone loves” Toby, and that he even sleeps with her now that he’s been adopted by the star, Priscilla piled on praise for the pup, saying, “He is adjusted. He is a gem. He has been so good. He’s so loving and listens…”

The former wife of the late Elvis Presley continued, “We had a lot of patience with him because he is a rescue and he was rescued from the street, and he is 10 years old — which he doesn’t act like a 10-year-old.”

That patience, along with some love and attention, has resulted in quite a transformation.

“As you see him now, he was not like this,” Priscilla pointed out. “He was not taken care of. He was starving. And I could not believe… I don’t know how this dog got there. I don’t know if he ran away or not. I don’t know the background.”

While Toby has obviously found himself in a better situation now that he’s living with Priscilla, she’s also thrilled with how things have worked out when it comes to the sweet canine companion she’s gained. She told her social media followers, “All I know is I’m able to take care of him, and that he’s turned out to be the best little friend and dog.”

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If you run hot like a furnace at night and also have back problems, a cooling mattress topper might be a worthwhile investment. Plenty of mattress toppers are available on the market, but this option from Kohl’s might be the best choice. It is affordable, high-quality and durable, and it’s made from cooling gel foam that helps you sleep soundly and stay cool all night long.

Serta’s Soothing Cool 3-Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper is designed for a more supported, cooler sleep. Available in twin, twin XL, full, queen, king and California king sizes, this mattress topper is made from three-inch cooling gel memory foam that helps regulate body temperature. This is an especially great choice for hot sleepers. The cover holds the mattress topper in place and stretches to fit mattresses up to 17 inches deep.

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Serta Soothing Cool 3-Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress Topper, Queen, $153.59 at Kohl’s

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This mattress topper stays fresh and clean thanks to its antimicrobial product protection. Plus, the cover is removable and machine washable for easy cleaning and maintenance. This mattress topper also comes with a 10-year limited warranty for added peace of mind.

Related: World Market’s 3-Drawer Hand-Carved Elephant Console Table Is a Piece of Art

What Reviewers Say About This Memory Foam Mattress Topper

Shoppers are loving this memory foam mattress topper, giving it an average rating of 4.4 stars on Kohls.com, with 80 percent of reviewers saying they would recommend it to others. Reviewers on Kohl’s website rate this mattress topper highly for its quality, durability, value and style.

“Great for cooling and achy backs. 10/10 comfort,” wrote one happy Kohl’s shopper in a five-star review on Kohls.com.

“Comfort like a cloud,” wrote another fan in a five-star review on Kohls.com. “This is a favorite foam pad for every bed in my house. So comfortable. It’s like sleeping on a cloud.”

You can order this memory foam mattress topper on Kohls.com. Prices vary by size.

Related: Aldi’s New 3-Piece Comforter Set Is a Charming Bedroom Refresh for Autumn

After three years, another Love Is Blind: UK couple has called it quits. Nicole and Benaiah Grunewald have decided it’s time to separate.

The two were one of the success stories on Love Is Blind: UK Season 1. Jasmine and Bobby are now the only couple still together from that first season, and they welcomed their first child in December 2025.

For the longest time, Nicole and Benaiah seemed to be a success story for the reality series, with the two of them appearing in the casting call promotion for Love Is Blind: UK Season 3. However, when the two didn’t appear at the premiere event, questions arose.

Nicole made the announcement on her Instagram Story, with Benaiah not being open and vocal about it just yet. In the post, Nicole asked for privacy, as she shared, “I feel devastated that we’ve reached this point.”

The last post from Benaiah was in September, when he shared a set of photos with a new puppy. While many assumed at the time that he shared the pup with Nicole, now there are questions over the timing of their decision to split.

Those who followed the two on social media saw red flags in 2025. The two had a YouTube channel together, and it was there that fans commented on some questionable behavior from Benaiah. Their video was taken down shortly after that, and they showed less of their lives together.

Other fans have questioned whether it was a case of their incompatible lifestyles. Benaiah was very much a free spirit, preferring to live a nomad lifestyle, while Nicole wanted a life in the UK. However, those who followed them closely have ruled that out, saying that Benaiah changed his lifestyle over the last three years.

Love Is Blind: UK Season 3 just finished airing in September 2026, and Netflix has already renewed it for a fourth season. There is currently no update on when the season will air.

Eyes are currently on Love Is Blind Season 11, which premieres with a block of five episodes on Wednesday, Oct. 14.

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Living in a condo or townhome changes the way you think about home security. Shared walls mean neighbors may be close by, while attached buildings can have common entrances, garages, hallways or parking areas that individual residents do not control.

That does not eliminate the need for security. It changes where a system should focus.

For many attached homes, the most useful protection starts at the doors and windows that lead directly into your unit, then expands to vulnerable areas such as balconies, patios and private garages.

If you are unsure where your property needs protection, ADT offers home security consultations and free quotes to help identify appropriate equipment.

Are home security systems worth it for condos and townhomes?

A home security system can be useful in a condo or townhome because residents still have private doors, windows and other potential entry points even when the building shares walls. A properly configured system can provide intrusion alerts, remote access to security devices and professional monitoring.

The goal is not to duplicate security measures already provided by a building or homeowners’ association. It is to cover the areas under your control.

Start With the Doors and Windows That Belong to Your Unit

A shared wall may reduce the number of exterior walls, but it does not protect your front door or accessible windows.

ADT’s current security equipment includes door/window sensors designed to monitor entry points. Its Premium Door/Window Sensor also includes wireless installation and instant mobile alerts.

For a condo or townhome, prioritize:

• Front and rear doors
• Accessible first-floor windows
• Sliding glass doors
• Private garage doors
• Windows near balconies, decks or exterior stairs

A security assessment should focus on how someone could actually reach your unit rather than simply counting every window.

Related: Can You Use a DIY Security System Without Monthly Fees?

Do condos need motion sensors if they already have door sensors?

Motion sensors provide another layer of interior detection after someone has entered the home. They are especially useful in open floor plans, hallways and rooms with multiple windows where installing individual sensors on every opening may be impractical.

ADT says its motion sensors can cover rooms, hallways and other open spaces, with customizable settings and mobile alerts.

In a townhome, placement can be particularly useful around:

1. Stairways connecting floors
2. Large rooms with several potential entry points
3. Hallways leading toward bedrooms
4. Areas connecting an attached garage to the living space

Pet owners should select equipment and sensitivity settings appropriate for their animals. ADT’s current motion sensor is designed to accommodate pets under 85 pounds.

What about balconies and upper-floor windows?

A second-floor window is not automatically inaccessible. A balcony, attached roof, exterior staircase or neighboring structure can provide a route that is easy to overlook during a security assessment.

Balcony doors and windows should be treated as potential entry points when they are reachable from the ground or another structure.

Exterior cameras can provide additional information about activity around balconies, patios and private entrances. But cameras should supplement physical entry sensors rather than replace them.

Research on CCTV also shows why placement and implementation matter. A College of Policing evidence review found that CCTV was associated with a 12% reduction in overall crime in residential areas across 16 studies. The review also found that effectiveness varied by context and that CCTV worked better when combined with complementary measures.

If you have an overlooked balcony, garage or accessible window, an ADT security specialist can help identify which entry points should be covered during a free consultation.

How do shared walls affect home security?

Shared walls do not create a direct security vulnerability by themselves. They can, however, create unusual layouts in which a unit’s most important entry points are concentrated along one side of the property.

A condo might have a single exterior door and several windows facing a courtyard. A townhome might have a front entrance, garage and rear patio. Those layouts require different sensor placements.

Residents should also distinguish between unit security and building security. A professionally managed condominium may already have cameras or access controls covering:

• Main lobby doors
• Parking garages
• Common hallways
• Building entrances
• Shared amenities

Those measures generally do not replace sensors protecting the door or windows of your individual unit.

Can security cameras help in a condo or townhome?

Cameras can provide visual information that door and window sensors cannot. An entry sensor can tell you that a door opened; a camera can show what happened around the entrance.

ADT’s current systems include cameras alongside intrusion and motion detection, with the ADT+ app providing mobile control and notifications.

For attached homes, useful camera locations may include:

Location

What it can show

Front door

Visitors and activity around the main entrance

Private garage

Activity near a garage entry

Rear patio

Movement around a less-visible entrance

Balcony

Activity around an elevated exterior area

Side passage

Movement near an accessible side entrance

Before installing an exterior camera, check condominium bylaws, HOA rules and applicable privacy requirements. A camera aimed directly at a neighbor’s private living space can create problems even when the camera is installed on property you control.

Do townhomes and condos need professional monitoring?

Professional monitoring is not required for every homeowner, but it changes who is responsible for responding to an alarm. With self-monitoring, the homeowner receives the alert and decides what to do. With professional monitoring, a monitoring team can receive qualifying alarm signals and follow the response procedures associated with the service.

ADT currently offers professional monitoring for its security systems, while its product lineup also includes self-setup options. Its ADT Blu Security Starter Kit, for example, includes three door/window sensors, a motion sensor and a base, with an optional Pro-Protect professional monitoring plan.

For condo and townhome residents, that distinction can be useful when they are away from home, traveling or unable to respond immediately to an alert.

Related: 7 DIY Home Security Mistakes That Could Leave Your House Vulnerable

What should you check before installing a security system?

Attached housing often comes with restrictions that do not apply to detached houses.

Before purchasing equipment, check:

• HOA or condominium rules governing exterior cameras and equipment
• Lease requirements if the property is rented
• Building access policies for professional installers
• Existing building security, including cameras and controlled entrances
• Internet and power availability near planned devices
• Emergency access procedures for your building

If you are installing sensors inside your unit, these restrictions may be limited. Exterior cameras, however, can involve shared spaces and neighboring properties, so reviewing the rules first can prevent an expensive installation problem.

Are home security systems worth it for attached homes?

For many condo and townhome owners, the value of a security system comes from protecting the specific entry points that building-wide security cannot cover. Door and window sensors, interior motion detection and strategically placed cameras can complement shared building security without duplicating it.

The right system depends on the property’s layout, accessibility and existing protections. ADT can provide a free quote and security consultation to help determine which equipment fits your condo or townhome.

Some or all of this content may have been generated by AI. While we strive for accuracy, AI can occasionally produce incorrect information. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

It was a major surprise when former very Special Agent Tony DiNozzo (Michael Weatherly) was named the new director of NCIS, replacing the late Director Leon Vance (Rocky Carroll) on the Season 24 premiere episode, and on tonight’s second NCIS episode of the season, we are discovering what type of director DiNozzo plans to be. After all, Tony was considered the class clown when he served as a member of Gibbs’ team, albeit an excellent agent.

“Sure, he has to be more serious as the director, but he’s also a different person than Leon Vance,” Steven D. Binder told Parade in an exclusive interview. “So, he’s going to do the directorship in a way that’s true to his nature. The movie references are still going to be there. His nature is to be a funny guy and be the comic relief. That’s his nature. But he’s had a lot of nurture since he left. He’s had a kid. He’s a parent. That’s a maturing thing. I think you’re going to see a combination of a wiser more mature Tony who is still 100 percent Tony as well.”

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That new Tony showed up tonight but the fact that he can’t stay in his own lane like Vance did, but rather got involved in solving the case of the week was very annoying to the team, so Alden Parker (Gary Cole), Nick Torres (Wilmer Valderrama) and Jessica Knight (Katrina Law) assigned Tim McGee (Sean Muray) to address the issue.

“This job is like the drummer from Spinal Tap,” DiNozzo told McGee. “It kills people, but it will kill your soul first unless you find a way to let off steam. Vance boxed, Jenny [Shepard, (Lauren Holly)] lit up the town, and I like to bust bad guys, so I am going to do my job as director and when I need to take a little break and blow off a little steam, I’m going to go bust some bad guys with you. It’s the only way I know how to survive this job. Can you live with that?”

McGee said he could, but then Tony dropped a bombshell on him. Earlier in the show, Jessica Knight had indicated that she thought that the director’s job should have gone to McGee, and she most likely wasn’t the only one. In fact, McGee had previously served as acting director, so he had more experience than Tony. And Tony realized that was also probably on McGee’s mind.

So, in the very last scene DiNozzo told McGee, “Don’t get too comfortable. The only reason you’re not doing this job is the Secretary of the Navy has another one planned for you.”

When McGee inquired which job, DiNozzo said, “Hers.” The look on McGee’s face was worth 1,000 words. There was the shock of it, but it would also have meant so much to McGee’s late father who was a four-star Admiral in the Navy. It would finally have been something his father would have been proud of.

That said, McGee confided to Torres that he felt that while DiNozzo would succeed as the director, he felt there might be problems and it wouldn’t be smooth sailing.

“I watched three directors do that job and there is a lot of delicate politics involved,” McGee explained to Torres. “With Tony, it’s like going back to high school and the kid who pulled the fire alarm is now the principal. He’s going to do great but I’m worried he’s going to make enemies on the hill.”

And Torres said, “That’s what friends are for. Worry all you want. Just watch his back.”

Also in the episode, it was clear that DiNozzo was already putting his imprint on his new office with the removal of Vance’s boxing photos and gear and the addition of lots of murder movie posters and a popcorn maker, but we also learned that DiNozzo wasn’t planning to evict McGee from his apartment, which is actually Tony’s.

Related: NCIS Boss Breaks Down That Massive Season 24 Premiere Twist — And the Brand-New Director (Exclusive)

We learned that Tony had already spoken to Delilah (Margo Harshman) about it without Tim’s being aware of it, which made Tim happy because Delilah had recently redecorated, and we also found out where DiNozzo is staying temporarily: On Jimmy Palmer’s (Brian Dietzen) couch. But it sounded as if the two were about as comfortable doing that as Oscar and Felix from The Odd Couple.

In order to be welcome, Tony had to promise to not call Palmer “autopsy gremlin” any longer.

“That’s the only reason I let you crash on my couch,” Palmer told him. “Now, I need to get you to stop setting the thermostat to the ice age.”

“As soon as you stop throwing away my eggs two days after they reached the expiration date,” DiNozzo responded.

That living arrangement is only an interim measure, according to Binder, who told us,  “It’s also still a temporary place. And it will provide some of that comic relief I was talking about – whose couch he ends up sleeping on, let’s put it that way.”

NCIS airs Tuesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CBS. Streams next day on Paramount+.

Next, NCIS Showrunner Teases Major ‘Resets’ and Surprises for Season 24 (Exclusive)

The best fall decorating ideas don’t require clearing every shelf or buying enough faux leaves to fill a wheelbarrow. Sometimes, one thoughtfully chosen accent is enough to make a familiar room feel different. Think warm colors, inviting textures, and a little atmosphere for evenings spent catching up over dinner or settling into a favorite show.

The trick is choosing something that earns its place rather than simply adding another object to store in November. For shoppers watching both their budgets and their available space, a seasonal purchase feels more worthwhile when it serves a purpose. That approach lets you add autumn charm without turning a quick home refresh into a full decorating project.

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Threshold 3-Wick Medium Rustic Ceramic Pumpkin Vanilla Pumpkin Fall Candle, $15 at Target

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Target’s Threshold 3-Wick Medium Rustic Ceramic Pumpkin Vanilla Pumpkin Fall Candle combines two seasonal purchases in one: a decorative pumpkin and a scented candle. Listed at $15, it offers a straightforward option for shoppers who want fragrance and fall style without assembling a display from several separate pieces.

Its appeal comes from that combination. Instead of choosing between an ornamental accent and something to light during a quiet evening, you get both in a single ceramic vessel.

The three-wick format is a distinguishing feature, while the rustic ceramic pumpkin gives the candle a seasonal identity even when it isn’t lit. Target identifies the fragrance as Vanilla Pumpkin, making this a specific scent choice rather than a neutral decorating purchase.

Related: Lego’s 124-Piece ‘Harry Potter’ Set Is Selling for an Unbeatable Price at Five Below

What to Know Before Adding It to Your Cart

Consider your fragrance preferences before adding it to your cart. Someone who loves pumpkin decor but dislikes scented candles may get more use from an unlit decorative piece.

This is most useful for shoppers with a specific spot and occasion in mind, for example, an evening reading corner, rather than another item bought without a plan.

Treat the $15 price as the cost of the complete decorative candle, not proof that it offers the best fragrance value. The vessel matters, too.

Related: Hobby Lobby’s Tufted-Style Pumpkin Pillow Is the Cozy Fall Find Your Sofa Needs

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Fall is finally here, which means that we can say good riddance to those unbearably hot summer nights. If you’ve been beating the summer heat with a throw or quilt, it’s about time to swap it out for a thicker blanket. Instead of cranking up the heater to stay warm during the colder months and running up your electricity bill, an insulating comforter can be a better solution. While you’re at it, you might as well get a comforter set to give your bed a cohesive look to tie your room together. Walmart carries a ton of budget-friendly options, and this Regency Heights 8-Piece Paisley Comforter Set is one of our favorite finds. 

Right now, you can snag this set on sale for a whopping 71% off. Normally retailing for $140, the queen-size comforter set is now marked down to just $40 in five colors, including black, coastal blue, green, plum pink, and red. This comforter set is also available in king and California king sizes, which normally retail for $160 and $180, but are now on sale for $45 and $46, respectively. 

Regency Heights 8-Piece Paisley Queen Comforter Set, $40 (was $140) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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This comforter set comes with everything you need for an effortlessly put-together look. It includes a comforter, a bed skirt, two standard pillow shams, two Euro pillow shams, and two decorative pillows. The bed skirt goes in between the mattress and box spring, draping down with a 15-inch drop to conceal the frame and give you a matching look from top to bottom. 

Featuring a stunning paisley pattern, this comforter set brings major vintage charm to the bedroom. The pattern is filled with teardrop-shaped swirls and dainty florals, giving it a shabby-chic aesthetic and romantic touch that’ll instantly elevate your bedroom’s vibes. Shoppers loved the design of this comforter set, describing it as “beautiful.” 

Creating visual interest, one of the throw pillows is square while the other is rectangular. The pillow shams boast a paisley print while the Euro shams sport a solid color. The comforter and pillow shams have a reversible design, so if you ever want to switch things up, you can flip them over to reveal a solid color for more of a minimalist look. 

Regency Heights 8-Piece Paisley Queen Comforter Set, $40 (was $140) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Crafted with microfiber fabric, this comforter set is soft and smooth to the touch. Ensuring that it’s safe and skin-friendly, the fabric is Oeko-Tex certified. It has been tested for and is free of over 1,000 harmful substances. The comforter is also filled with microfiber, making it a great, affordable alternative to down-filled comforters, as it mimics the same plush and fluffy feel. Microfiber is also hypoallergenic, which is ideal for those with sensitive skin and allergies. 

Ideal for all-season use, the comforter delivers warmth yet has a lightweight and breathable feel. It keeps you snug and toasty during the cold nights while promoting airflow to keep you from overheating and sweating. 

Several Walmart shoppers raved about how “soft and comfortable” this comforter set was. One reviewer noted that “the quality is amazing.” A second customer commented that “it feels amazing getting into bed.” 

Thanks to the microfiber material, this comforter set is also easy to care for. Whenever it needs a refresh, you can just toss it in the washing machine and put it in the dryer afterward. The comforter has subtle stitches throughout the fabric, which prevents the filling from clumping up. 

Shop More Comforter Sets 

• Regency Heights 3-Piece Coastal Full/Queen Comforter Set, From $37 (was $69) at Walmart
• Regency Heights 3-Piece Plaid Full/Queen Comforter Set, From $47 (was $80) at Walmart
• Vccoem 7-Piece Seersucker Queen Comforter Set, From $36 (was $66) at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s ‘Fluffy’ and ‘Luxurious’ $20 Shag Rug Is a Cozy Upgrade for Bedrooms and Living Rooms

If you want to stay toasty all fall and winter long while bringing some vintage charm to your bedroom, don’t hesitate to snag the Regency Heights 8-Piece Paisley Comforter Set at Walmart while it’s still on sale between $40 and $46! 

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.

The best thing about fall, aside from the cozy, crisp weather, is all the tasty seasonal treats. And whether you prefer something freshly baked and straight out of the oven or frozen and topped with decadent ingredients, there’s a world of delicious options to explore at your local Costco.

The new fall snack taking over our explore feeds right now? A brand-new Vanilla Apple Pie Sundae that has shoppers officially saying “never mind the churros.” Retailing for a cool $2.99 and still making its way into warehouse locations, this rich and creamy dessert perfectly captures the essence of fall.

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Vanilla Apple Pie Sundae, $2.99 at Costco View this post on Instagram

Spotted by @costcotv who showcased a showstopping serving that would stop any food court patron in their tracks. Calling it “so soft and creamy” and a “little bit tart,” Toshie wasted no time convincing viewers they needed to race to their local warehouse to try it. 

“If you love apple anything,” Toshie shared, “you’ll LOVE this one!”

Starting with a base of apple chunks and apple pie filling at the bottom of the cup, the sundae features Costco’s signature vanilla soft serve, followed by another layer of apple chunks and pie filling on top, plus pieces of pie crust scattered throughout for extra scrumptious texture. At $2.99 a pop, this tasty dessert promises classic fall flavors that you can only hope remain a permanent fixture on the menu.

Related: Shoppers Are Racing to Try Costco’s New $10 Pantry Staple: ‘It’s Like Healthy Reese’s Puffs’

Fans Can’t Wait to Get Their Hands on This Sundae

Any time a new food court menu item makes its debut, you can count on a slew of fans taking to the internet to express their opinions. And while Costco’s famed food court churros have finally made their long-awaited return, it’s nice to see a worthy opponent taking up space on the menu, too.

“Never mind the churro,” one fan raved in response to Toshie’s post. “I hope the apple pie sundae is really good after I eat the hot dog or pizza.”

“My eyes say yes but my GLP-1 is holding me back,” another fan joked, while a third added, “That’s it. I’m going tomorrow.”

But the excitement didn’t stop there. Another viewer noted the irony of having just been craving a Costco sundae, saying, “I’m glad I held out and didn’t get one, this looks phenomenal!”

If you’re curious about how it tastes, be sure to head to your local Costco sooner rather than later to try it out. This seasonal arrival will only be around for a limited time, and the last thing you want is to miss out. While you’re at it, keep your eyes peeled for one of these five Costco bakery finds that are only around for October.

Related: Trader Joe’s Freezer Aisle Is Packed With Fall Favorites—But These 5 Limited-Time Finds Could Disappear Before You Know It

In 1977, Atlanta Rhythm Section scored its breakthrough with a sultry song about the kind of attraction that makes everyone else in the room disappear.

“So Into You,” released on the Southern rock band’s sixth studio album A Rock and Roll Alternative, finds lead singer Ronnie Hammond captivated by a mysterious woman from the moment she walks into the room. He’s immediately drawn to the stranger and tries to catch her attention, hoping the unmistakable attraction he’s feeling might be mutual.

Hammond was just 25 when Atlanta Rhythm Section recorded the song, but the band’s journey to its first major hit had already been years in the making.

Atlanta Rhythm Section grew out of the session musicians at Studio One in Doraville, Ga. Several members had previously played in the Candymen and the Classics IV, while drummer Robert Nix had toured with Roy Orbison before helping form ARS.

Despite the musicians’ considerable experience, major success as Atlanta Rhythm Section proved elusive.

The band’s first album arrived in 1972, followed by a string of releases throughout the first half of the decade. “Doraville” gave ARS its first taste of Top 40 success in 1974, but the group was still opening shows for other Southern rock acts.

By the time Atlanta Rhythm Section began working on A Rock and Roll Alternative, Nix said the musicians had had enough of being the opening act.

“We got tired of being The Atlanta Rhythm Section opening for Marshall Tucker or Charlie Daniels or whoever,” Nix recalled years later in an essay about his career. “We loved them but we were ready to headline.”

So they came up with a remarkably straightforward plan: Write a hit.

“We decided to do what we knew best: record a hit single to be culled from an album,” Nix explained. “This would obviously up our chart status, our record sales and popularity on the radio.”

Nix, keyboardist Dean Daughtry and the band’s manager and producer Buddy Buie headed to a cabin on Lake Eufaula, Ala., where the three men wrote “So Into You.”

Their plan worked.

Related: 1979 Rock Hit, About a Mysterious Woman, Became an Unlikely Halloween Favorite

“It was an overnight smash,” Nix recalled. “Our record sales soared.”

“So Into You” climbed to No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100, spending three weeks at its peak. It performed even better in Canada, where the song reached No. 2 and was kept out of the top spot by another monster hit of 1977, the Eagles’ “Hotel California.”

A Rock and Roll Alternative also became Atlanta Rhythm Section’s first gold album.

But perhaps the most dramatic measure of just how much “So Into You” changed the band’s fortunes was what happened to its concert fees.

According to Nix, Atlanta Rhythm Section went from earning about $3,500 per show to $35,000 plus a percentage—a tenfold increase.

“It was definitely what the doctor ordered,” he wrote.

The success finally turned Atlanta Rhythm Section into the headlining act its members wanted to be. The following year brought the band’s platinum-selling Champagne Jam and another No. 7 hit, “Imaginary Lover.”

As for the irresistible stranger at the center of “So Into You,” her identity remains a mystery.

An unconfirmed story has circulated among fans that the woman may have been Leslie Hawkins, one of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s backing singers, the Honkettes, and that Nix was smitten with her. However, Nix’s own account of writing “So Into You” does not identify a real-life inspiration behind the song.

What Nix did make clear was just how consequential the song became for Atlanta Rhythm Section: Three musicians went to a cabin determined to write the hit that could turn their band into a headliner.

They came back with exactly that.

Related: 1975 No. 1 Hit, By a 25-Year-Old Singer, Is Still a ‘Low-Rent Rendezvous’ 51 Years Later

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A $3,000 emergency vet bill creates two separate problems. First, there is the size of the bill itself. Second, there is the question of how to pay it right away.

Pet insurance and veterinary payment plans address those problems differently. The first can reimburse part of an eligible veterinary expense under the policy terms. In contrast, a payment plan, financing account or veterinary credit product does not reduce the bill—it just gives you more time to pay it, often subject to interest, promotional terms or credit approval.

That distinction matters when deciding which option offers the right protection for your financial situation. While pet insurance aims to reduce your total financial exposure, a payment plan simply restructures how you pay what you owe. Here’s how insurance and payment plans compare when an unexpected vet bill arrives.

If a large emergency bill would be difficult to absorb on your own, Lemonade lets dog and cat owners customize accident-and-illness coverage with different deductibles, reimbursement rates and annual limits.

What Does Pet Insurance Do With a Large Vet Bill?

Pet insurance is designed to transfer part of the financial risk of eligible accidents and illnesses to the insurer.

Companies like Lemonade use a reimbursement model. You generally pay the veterinarian first, submit the claim and receive reimbursement for eligible costs based on the deductible, reimbursement percentage and annual limit you selected.

Lemonade currently offers annual deductibles of $100, $250, $500 or $750 and reimbursement rates of 70%, 80% or 90%. The important point is that an approved claim can reduce the amount of the eligible expense you ultimately bear.

How Does a Vet Payment Plan Work?

A payment plan solves a different problem. Instead of reducing the eligible cost through insurance reimbursement, financing lets you divide the amount owed into payments over time. Options can include an in-house payment arrangement offered by the veterinary practice, a credit card or a third-party financing product.

CareCredit, for example, offers promotional financing for veterinary expenses at participating providers. Some promotions use deferred interest, meaning interest accrues from the purchase date but is not charged if the promotional balance is paid in full by the deadline. If any balance remains, accrued interest can be added.

Note: Availability, rates and approval requirements differ by financing product and veterinary practice.

Related: Is Pet Insurance Worth It in 2026? What Dog and Cat Owners Should Know

Pet Insurance vs. Vet Payment Plan: What’s the Main Difference?

The easiest way to compare them is to ask what happens to the bill.

Feature

Pet Insurance

Vet Payment Plan/Financing

Can reduce eligible cost

Yes, through reimbursement

No

Spreads payment over time

Not usually

Yes

Monthly premium

Yes

No ongoing insurance premium

Credit approval

Not generally for policy purchase

May be required

Interest charges

No borrowing interest

Possible

Pre-existing conditions

Commonly excluded

Financing can generally pay regardless of diagnosis

Must already be in place

Yes, before the covered condition occurs

May be arranged when treatment is needed

In general, though, insurance reduces eligible financial exposure, while financing changes the payment schedule.

If your goal is to reduce how much of a major eligible veterinary expense ultimately comes out of your pocket, Lemonade lets you choose reimbursement levels and deductibles based on your budget.

Can a Vet Payment Plan Help With Expenses Pet Insurance Excludes?

Yes, and this is one of the biggest advantages of financing.

A lender or payment arrangement is generally concerned with whether you qualify to borrow and can repay the balance—not whether the veterinary condition satisfies an insurance policy. That means financing may be usable for expenses that pet insurance does not cover.

Pre-existing conditions are an important example. NAIC identifies pre-existing conditions as a major area pet owners should review because insurers commonly exclude them, subject to each policy’s definition.

If insurance excludes the treatment, a payment plan could still help you spread that bill over time if financing is available.

Can Pet Insurance Help if You Don’t Have Cash Upfront?

This is where the reimbursement model can create a challenge.

Lemonade says policyholders pay treatment costs upfront and then submit a claim for reimbursement. That means you may still need access to cash, a credit card or another payment method at the veterinary clinic.

Financing can potentially bridge that timing gap. A pet owner could, for example, use an approved financing option to pay the veterinarian and then use an insurance reimbursement to reduce the financed balance after the claim is approved.

The exact approach depends on the lender’s terms and the insurance claim.

How Much Could Insurance Reimburse?

It depends on the policy you selected.

Lemonade calculates reimbursement using the eligible claim amount, selected reimbursement percentage and remaining annual deductible. It also applies the policy’s annual limit.

For example, a $2,000 emergency bill could result in a $1,100 reimbursement with an 80% reimbursement rate and a $500 remaining deductible. The owner would ultimately be responsible for $900 in that example.

Without insurance, financing the same $2,000 bill still leaves you responsible for the full $2,000, plus any applicable borrowing costs.

What Are the Risks of Vet Financing?

Financing can make urgent care more accessible, but borrowing terms deserve careful attention. For this reason, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has warned consumers about deferred-interest financing because a promotional balance that is not fully repaid by the deadline can trigger interest dating back to the original purchase.

Minimum payments may not necessarily pay off a deferred-interest promotional balance before its deadline. Before financing, check the APR, promotional expiration date, required payments and what happens if the balance remains.

Which Is Better for a $5,000 Emergency Vet Bill?

The answer depends largely on whether insurance is already in place.

If a $5,000 expense is eligible under a pet insurance policy, reimbursement could substantially reduce the owner’s ultimate cost, subject to the deductible, reimbursement percentage and annual limit. If insurance was never purchased—or the condition is excluded—a financing arrangement may help make the same bill payable over time, but it does not make the treatment cheaper.

That is the key difference. Pet insurance generally must be purchased before the accident or illness develops. Financing can often be sought when the bill already exists.

Related: Pet Insurance vs. Wellness Plans: Which Type of Coverage Do You Need?

Do You Need Both Pet Insurance and a Payment Plan?

Both can complement each other because they solve different problems. Insurance helps reduce eligible expenses, while financing can provide a way to cover the upfront bill or spread deductibles, coinsurance and excluded costs over time.

Savings can provide a third layer by reducing the amount that needs to be borrowed at all.

For a household concerned about major veterinary emergencies, the strongest financial preparation may include insurance for eligible major expenses, plus sufficient available cash or credit to cover the portion due before reimbursement.

Pet Insurance vs. Vet Payment Plans: Which Helps More?

If the goal is reducing the financial impact of an unexpected illness or injury, pet insurance provides the more direct protection because it can reimburse part of the covered expense. If the problem is simply that you cannot pay a veterinary bill all at once, a payment plan can make the expense more manageable—but you remain responsible for repaying the balance.

Neither option eliminates every out-of-pocket cost.

Insurance comes with premiums, deductibles, coinsurance and exclusions. Financing can bring interest charges and credit obligations. The best time to think about those differences is before an emergency happens.

Don’t wait until you’re standing at the emergency vet counter to decide how you’d handle a major bill. Visit Lemonade to see how customizable pet insurance coverage could reduce eligible costs before an unexpected accident or illness occurs.

Some or all of this content may have been generated by AI. While we strive for accuracy, AI can occasionally produce incorrect information. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.