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Whitney Houston's rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" has long been regarded as one of the greatest national anthem performances ever recorded. Now, one country music star is making the case that it's not just one of the best—it's the greatest of all time.

On July 4, John Rich, who is a member of the country music duo Big & Rich, took to X to share his thoughts on Houston's rendition of the song after it was shared by Congressman Wesley Hunt.

"Good God Almighty… Whitney Houston might have given the greatest performance of our National Anthem of ALL TIME! Take three minutes and watch this today. My goodness…Makes me wanna cry," Rich said.

The performance occurred at Super Bowl XXV back in 1991 in Tampa, Fla.

"I think it was a time when Americans needed to believe in our country," Houston said after the performance, according to People magazine. "I remember standing there and looking at all those people, and it was like I could see in their faces, the hopes and prayers and fears of the entire country."

Many fans agree with Rich's statement and find Houston's performance of the National Anthem extremely moving.

"Her gift was phenomenal! She makes you tear up. But it’s not just from singing… it’s from the happiness and being proud to be an American that you can see on her face as she’s singing.. that was her gift to us," one person replied in the comments section of Rich's post.

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"I remember watching it live. Still gives me goosebumps every time I watch. Best rendition ever," someone else said.

This marked the only time that Houston performed "The Star-Spangled Banner." She died in Feb. 2012 a the age of 48.

READ NEXT: Toby Keith’s Unwavering Motto Still Resonates on America’s 250th Birthday

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Spring and summer easily qualify as “grab-and-go” seasons, with calendars that fill up quickly with beach days, picnics in the park, weekend trips, and last-minute plans. There are neighborhood walks that turn into long hikes, festivals and farmers markets that pop up, and travel days where you end up packing everything from sunscreen and snacks to a folding chair or a small cooler just in case. With that much movement between plans, the one thing that makes it all easier is a function-first bag.

If you’re in the market for that kind of everyday carry, REI currently has an adorable retro style of the Patagonia Terravia Sacoche Crossbody Bag marked down by 41%. Normally $49, you can snag it now for just $29. Designed to hold daily essentials — phone, keys, wallet, sunglasses, lip balm, and a few extras — it keeps items secure and your hands free, so you can actually enjoy the day instead of digging through your bag.

Courtesy of REI

Built to withstand daily wear and tear, this crossbody is made from recycled ripstop nylon that’s both weather-resistant and highly packable, making it easy to stash in a larger bag or clip onto gear when not in use. The compact 3-liter capacity (183 cubic inches) keeps the profile slim, while still offering a main compartment plus two exterior stretch-mesh drop-in pockets for organizing small essentials. A durable polyurethane coating on both the body and lining materials adds extra protection from light moisture, dirt, and stains.

The adjustable strap allows it to be carried comfortably as either a crossbody or shoulder bag, depending on preference. It can also be worn in front for easy access or secured to a larger pack or duffel for extra storage, and even doubles as a packing cube when the shoulder strap is removed. When not in use, it stuffs into its own main pocket for compact storage. 

The bag's construction is finished in a Fair Trade Certified factory, meaning the people who made it earned a premium for their labor, and the fabric is bluesign approved, meeting environmental and chemical safety standards for more responsible production.

Outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and regular users alike praised this “small but mighty” bag. One reviewer wrote, “This is really a great everyday bag. [It’s] comfortable and small, but fits more than you'd expect.”

Another shopper highlighted its slim profile, noting that it’s “larger than a passport pouch and flatter than a crossbody bag,” meaning it “fits comfortably under a light jacket, loose-fitting shirt, or windbreaker,” making it a secure option for protection from the weather or potential pickpockets.

Related: REI’s Retro Cooling Neck Wrap Offers 'Relief in Extreme Heat' for Under $10

At $29, the Patagonia Terravia Sacoche Crossbody Bag is a busy day essential. Snag this deal at REI before it's gone!

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Netflixconfirmed three new additions to "Wednesday" Season 3 this week: Lena Headey, Andrew McCarthy and James Lance are all joining the cast.

The trio arrives as production continues on what's shaping up to be the show's most star-studded season yet. Headey, known to most audiences as Cersei Lannister on "Game of Thrones," joins fellow newcomers Winona Ryder, Eva Green, Chris Sarandon, Noah Taylor, Oscar Morgan and Kennedy Moyer, alongside returning cast membersJenna Ortega, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Luis Guzmán and Fred Armisen. McCarthy, best remembered for "St. Elmo's Fire," and Lance, familiar to "Ted Lasso" fans, round out the new wave, though none of their roles have been disclosed.

Plot specifics for Season 3 remain tightly under wraps, though the season is expected to lean further into the Addams family's buried history. Season 2 ended with the reveal that Morticia's estranged sister, Ophelia, played by Green, is alive and had scrawled "Wednesday must die" on a wall.

Showrunners Alfred Gough and Miles Millar have promised the new season goes deeper into family secrets than either of its predecessors. "This season, we welcome new students, new teachers, and excavate some long-rotting Addams Family secrets," the pair said in a statement when production began. "Don't say you weren't warned."

Related: 'Klara and the Sun' Trailer: Jenna Ortega Is a Robot Who Just Wants a Home

Production has taken the show overseas for the first time. Filming ran in Paris from April 18 through April 20, with Ortega, Armisen and director Tim Burton spotted shooting scenes along the Seine, a notable departure for a series that has stayed rooted in the United States through its first two seasons. Netflix teased the trip with a first-look photo of Ortega beneath the Eiffel Tower, captioned "From Paris, with dread."

The additions build on a run of high-profile casting news for the series. Ryder's arrival, confirmed in February, marked a reunion with both Ortega and Burton, her collaborators on 2024's "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice." "When it comes to Outcasts, Winona Ryder is the GOAT," Gough and Millar said in a statement at the time.

"Wednesday" enters its third season as one of Netflix's biggest franchises. Season 1 remains the platform's most-watched English-language series ever, streamed for more than 1.7 billion hours, while Season 2 currently ranks fifth on that all-time list with 119.3 million views. That success and scale is helping to drive attention with each new casting announcement as a show already involving Burton, Ortega, Zeta-Jones, Green and Ryder now adds a "Game of Thrones" icon to the mix, with more names likely before filming wraps.

No release date has been set. Given the roughly three-year gap between Seasons 1 and 2, expectations have settled around a 2027 premiere, though Netflix hasn't confirmed a timeline.

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When Taylor Swift first debuted “All Too Well” back in 2012, it became a fan favourite for its tale of young love and broken hearts. When she re-released the song in November 2021, the song had transformed into a 10-minute epic.

Many Swifties believe the song is about her three-month romance with Oscar-nominated actor Jake Gyllenhaal in 2010. The song does identify an age-gap romance, which matches their romance, which took place when Swift was 21 and Gyllenhaal 30. "You said if we had been closer in age maybe it would have been fine / and that made me want to die," she sings.

Across the lengthy pop ballad, Swift recalls how their relationship fell apart. She berated her love for missing her birthday, took a dig at his preference for dating younger women, and wondered if she had ever met anything to the man.

Swift calls the track a "10-minute catharsis of intense emotion", according to People. "There are some really angry, scathing parts that I was like kinda gonna have to make it into something a little more palatable because I already felt so, like, raw putting that song out as detailed as it was," Swift recalled, earlier this year.

The Independent broke down how certain lyrics could connect to the Brokeback Mountain actor: “From when your Brooklyn broke my skin and bones. I’m a soldier who’s returning half her weight. And did the twin flame bruise paint you blue?” Gyllenhaal played a soldier in both Source Code and Brothers. Twin flames could refer to

By 2011, the Brooklyn-based Gyllenhaal had starred as a soldier in two different films: Source Code, and 2009’s Brothers. The "twin flame" lyric likely references that the former couple are both Sagittarius, a fire sign.

Jake Gyllenhaal has always denied the track is about him. In an Esquire profile, he shot down the popular fan theory. "It has nothing to do with me," he said.

He added: "It's about her relationship with her fans. It is her expression. Artists tap into personal experiences for inspiration, and I don't begrudge anyone that."

"At some point, I think it's important when supporters get unruly that we feel a responsibility to have them be civil and not allow for cyberbullying in one's name," Gyllenhaal explained. "That begs for a deeper philosophical question. Not about any individual, per se, but a conversation that allows us to examine how we can — or should, even — take responsibility for what we put into the world, our contributions into the world. How do we provoke a conversation?"

Stiffness in the hips is a common complaint among many regular runners, cyclists and even those with sedentary lifestyles. Active individuals might develop tight hips from not doing enough mobility work, while those who work at a desk for long periods may experience tight hip flexors, ultimately causing discomfort and stiffness.

“Sitting for too long causes the hip flexor muscles to shorten and tighten up, due to a lack of blood flow and circulation to those muscles. In addition, the glute and core muscles can become inactive and weak during this time, which can impact your posture while sitting, causing even more strain on the hips,” explains Reena Vokoun, licensed Pilates instructor and founder and CEO of Passion Fit.

Tight hips can also feel as though your range of motion in front of your thighs, hips and groin is limited. As time passes, this can totally compromise daily movement. Simple things like walking, climbing stairs, bending down to pick something up, getting up from the couch or playing a round of pickleball can feel much more challenging. In fact, every single step or move might activate pain.

Incorporating the right exercises in your workout routine is crucial to help tackle tight hips. Of course, if your pain becomes persistent and intense, it’s always a wise move to check in with your healthcare provider.

To get you started on the right approach to working out, we spoke with a Pilates instructor who suggests one key exercise she teaches every client with tight hips. Pilates is an excellent training method for boosting hip strength and mobility, as it involves slow, controlled movements that activate the deep stabilizing muscles. So, if you’re ready to get started, let’s dive in!

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Vokoun says that many of her clients experience hip tightness at some point or another. In fact, a study published in the International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research discovered that 94.3% of the 385 young adult participants exhibited tight hip flexors. Reduced physical activity was among the potential culprits contributing to this tightness.

“[Hip tightness] is a common complaint due to being sedentary and sitting for too long, overworking hip flexor muscles from activities like running or cycling or having a weak core or glutes,” she adds.

Related:  The Exact 15-Minute Pilates Routine Instructors Recommend for Beginners

Maintaining strong, mobile hips is a key part of leading an active, independent lifestyle well into your golden years.

“Movement quality often stems from the hips, as well as the core. Therefore, improving hip mobility can open up the hips and allow for a full range of motion, stronger and larger strides, less overcompensation in the lower back and a neutral pelvic tilt to create good posture,” Vokoun tells Paradei.

Related: The #1 Pilates Workout Sequence That Builds Strength Beyond the Mat

If you’re ready to get started, Vokoun recommends the frog squat to boost hip mobility while engaging the core. Here’s how to do it:

1. Begin standing tall with your hips, knees and toes slightly turned out—and feet planted just outside shoulder-width.
2. Lower down into a frog squat position.
3. Make sure to keep your core tucked in, your back straight, your glutes pointing back.
4. Bring your palms together at your heart’s center.
5. Then, lift your hips and buttocks with your knees slightly bent.
6. Perform this exercise for two to three sets of 12 to 15 reps.

Related: This Is the Safest Way To Start Pilates After 60, According to Instructors

By doing frog squats with proper form, you’re incorporating dynamic stretching and repetitive movement all in one. According to Vokoun, these two factors can enhance flexibility, mobility and strength versus simply increasing flexibility with a classic stretch.

“The frog squat targets the core, hips, inner thighs, groin, quadriceps, glutes and hamstrings. All of these muscle groups are important for hip mobility because they’re all interconnected and help create a safe and effective movement pattern for the hips,” she shares.

Tight hips can impact your overall quality of life. In addition to checking in with a physical therapist or healthcare professional, it’s essential to optimize your workout routine to support strong, mobile, healthy hips.

Up Next:

• Hackensack Meridian Health. (2023, January 9). How to test if you have tight hips and what to do about it.
• Frank, C. (2024, December 18). Do you spend most of your day sitting? These hip flexor stretches are for you. Harvard Health Publishing.
• Reena Vokoun, licensed pilates instructor and founder and CEO of Passion Fit.
• Kadam, T. R., Sony, R., & Anand, P. A. (2023). Prevalence of hip flexor tightness in young adults. International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research, 5(5).

Toby Keith’s message about America is being shared once again on a symbolic day for the country he often celebrated in his music. On America’s 250th birthday, the late country star’s team resurfaced one of his most recognizable sentiments—a simple but powerful reminder of how deeply he felt about the United States.

"Here’s to 250 years of freedom. Happy Birthday America," read the caption of a post shared on Keith's official social media accounts on Saturday, July 4. The caption accompanied a throwback photo of Keith raising a red solo cup with the American flag as his backdrop. His patriotic motto, "Never apologize for being patriotic," was written in large white letters. It's something that Keith routinely said at the end of each show that he performed.

Here’s to 250 years of freedom. Happy Birthday America. pic.twitter.com/390Dg9vunV

Fans loved the tribute and many took to the comments section to remember the country music icon, who died in February 2024 after being diagnosed with stomach cancer.

"Toby should be here. I sure miss him," one fan wrote.

"RIP Toby. Man was a huge part of my childhood. He would love what's happening now. God Bless the US and Toby Keith," someone else said.

"Miss you, Toby. Thanks for all you did for patriotism. RIP," a third comment read.

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"My one wish would have been that Toby Keith would have lived to see today. He is the ultimate Patriot," a fourth X user added.

Keith was a longtime supporter of the U.S. military, completing 11 USO tours over his career. He also recorded several patriotic anthems, including “American Soldier” and “Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue."

READ NEXT: A Country Music Farewell Tour Is Having an Unexpected Impact Beyond the Stage

Author Suzanne Collins dove into Haymitch Abernathy's journey in the Quarter Quell in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping. One of the heartbreaking details she revealed is Haymitch's birthday is July 4, which is also reaping day.

The movie adaptation will be released on November 20. However, there is a new video that was released on July 4 to tease more of Joseph Zada's portrayal of 16-year-old Haymitch.

A "Meet Haymitch" video was released, and it starts with the character's little brother, Sid (Smylie Bradwell), jumping on him in bed. "Happy Birthday, Haymitch!" he said to wake him up.

"Can you imagine the sun rising on a world without a reaping?" Lenore Dove Baird (Whitney Peak) asked Haymitch.

"Not on my birthday," he answered. "Never had one that came without a reaping."

Director Francis Lawrence explained that the Quarter Quell will have twice the number of tributes, which is 50 kids. The Capitol will take four kids, two boys and two girls, from each district.

Producer Nina Jacobson explained that Haymitch was reaped as punishment. "Woody Harrelson as Haymitch has a mischief to him," Jacobson, 60.

Related: ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’ Trailer: How To Find Young Mags of ‘The Hunger Games’

Valerie Terranova/Getty Images for Prime Video

Zada, 20, is from Australia, but you can hear that he changed his accent to sound like Harrelson, 64. "Such a fan of his work," the actor said in the featurette. "It's been intense being like Woody's Haymitch." He later said it was "special" to share the role with him.

Elle Fanning, Jesse Plemons, McKenna Grace and Ben Wang speak about the upcoming movie's story in the new video. Fanning, 28, plays a young Effie Trinket. The District 12 escort for Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson).

Effie and Haymitch's relationship started with bickering in the franchise. Effie cared about putting on a good public image for their district. Haymitch refused to do so and was often drunk. But their goals aligned by the last Mockingjay movie, and they worked together.

"Elizabeth [Banks] and Woody, their dynamic is so fantastic," Fanning said. "Joe and I have tried to incorporate that." There is a scene in which her version of Effie encourages Haymitch to make the audience remember him before his interview with Caesar Flickerman (Kieran Culkin).

Related: ‘Hunger Games’ Star Drops ‘Killer Song’ That Has Fans Demanding an Album

A character that wasn't shown in the first trailer was Louella McCoy (Molly McCann). Haymitch has his arm around Louella in one scene. "You and me 'til the end, right, Hay?" she asked him in another. He agreed.

"Haymitch wants to care for these other tributes in the game," Grace, 20, said. The featurette cleverly cuts to Haymitch's scenes in the original movie where he cared for Katniss and Peeta.

There will be parallels of his relationships with the Quarter Quell tribute and his future ones. The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping will be released in theaters on November 20.

Prince William is proving he's the coolest royal around by making a surprise appearance on Travis and Jason Kelce's New Heights podcast.

In a wide-ranging 30-minute interview that dropped on the same day as Travis's highly anticipated wedding to Taylor Swift, the Prince of Wales chatted with the Kelce brothers about soccer, the World Cup, and, of course, the Eras Tour.

When Jason asked Prince William whether it was his father, King Charles, who sparked his love of soccer and Aston Villa FC, William didn't hold back. "My father hates football," he said flatly, which seems sacrilegious for a British monarch - especially during the World Cup.

William, who has been involved with the Football Association for two decades, also shared his hopes for England there. "As each World Cup goes on and the results don't quite go your way, a little bit of hope gets chipped away each time," he said. "I am quietly confident," adding diplomatically, "If we lose, we lose playing the way we want to play."

But the real highlight? When Jason asked William to weigh in on Travis's most iconic Wembley Stadium moment: scoring a touchdown in 2015 or dancing onstage as Taylor Swift's backup dancer during the Eras Tour. Prince William didn't hesitate. "Travis as a backup dancer," he said. Travis, for his part, called it "a definitely very proud moment" of his life, and confirmed he'd do it again if Swift announces another tour.

Travis also reflected on meeting William and his children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, at the London Eras Tour stops. "We were so nervous to meet you guys and the royal family," Travis said. "It was one of the coolest moments ever," Jason added that Princess Charlotte was the highlight for him, as a fellow girl dad of four daughters. (*I’m not crying, you’re crying.)

As for whether William will be attending the Travis and Taylor wedding later today at Madison Square Garden? Peopleconfirms he and The Princess of Wales won't be making the trip. Looks like the podcast appearance will have to do, but to paraphrase: we’re “addicted to the ‘if only.'”

A love story, a mystery and a courtroom drama have come together to make Broken Country one of the books readers can't stop finishing.

Clare Leslie Hall's hit novel is currently ranked among Goodreads' most-read books in the United States this week, a list that reflects the books most often marked as finished by Goodreads users during that period. The milestone comes after the novel received a major boost from Reese's Book Club, which selected Broken Country as one of its picks and helped introduce the sweeping story to an even wider audience.

The novel follows Beth, a woman living on a sheep farm whose life is thrown into turmoil when her first love, Gabriel, returns years after their relationship ended. Set across the 1950s and 1960s, the story blends romance, suspense and courtroom drama as long-buried secrets resurface and force Beth to confront the choices that shaped her life.

"My family and I live in a very old 16th century farmhouse, which is surrounded by farmland," Hall shared in an interview with Barnes & Noble. "When I was researching the novel, I spent a lot of time with farmers. I learned how to milk cows; I went harvesting and lambing. Every single time, I was so struck by how the farmers would stop in the moment of their day’s toil, and they would point out a moment of real stark beauty. To me, it might be a skylark soaring or just seeing a newborn calf. It opened my eyes to the beauty and the brutality of pastoral life. I really wanted to capture that. Researching the novel actually enabled me to connect to the landscape around me in a way that I hadn't before."

Hall's attention to detail combined with the novel's genre-crossing appeal has been central to its success.

Published in 2025, Broken Country has been embraced by readers who enjoy emotionally layered novels with mystery at the center. Its mix of forbidden love, rural drama and high-stakes consequences has drawn comparisons to books like Where the Crawdads Sing and The Paper Palace, while its structure gives readers both an intimate character story and a page-turning mystery.

The Reese's Book Club selection helped turn that momentum into a larger cultural moment. Reese Witherspoon has long used the club to spotlight women-centered stories, and her endorsement of Broken Country placed Hall's novel in front of a devoted community of readers known for turning picks into bestsellers.

The Goodreads ranking underscores how strongly that enthusiasm has carried over. Rather than simply sitting on readers' shelves, Broken Country is among the titles users are actively finishing this week, suggesting that the novel's word-of-mouth momentum remains strong well after its release.

For Hall, the success marks a major breakthrough. With Broken Country, she has delivered a novel that combines the sweep of historical fiction with the emotional pull of romance and the suspense of a thriller, giving readers the kind of immersive story that continues to spread through book clubs, social media and online reading communities.

"Connecting with readers and hearing what they took from the novel is something I truly treasure," Hall told Goldsboro Books. "It was important to me to write a story that was as emotionally true as possible."

As new readers continue discovering it, Broken Country is proving that its popularity is more than a fleeting moment. Its place among Goodreads' most-read books in the United States this week reflects a novel that has not only captured attention, but kept readers turning pages until the very end.

Related: Best-Selling Author's Novel Ranked Among ‘Best Books Ever’ on Goodreads

Every family has an uncle that the kids seem to flock to. Maybe he's the one who lets them stay up a little later, starts an impromptu game in the backyard, or somehow makes a trip to the hardware store feel like an adventure. He doesn't have to try very hard. The kids enjoy being around him. While every month has its share of great uncles, uncles born in March, June, September, and December seem to have a little extra love to give.

A favorite uncle usually isn't the one with the biggest personality or the most money. He's the one who makes time. He comes to the birthday parties, cheers from the sidelines, takes the kids fishing, or hangs around talking after a family cookout. He remembers what they're interested in and follows through when he says he'll do something. Those are the moments that stick with people long after they're grown. Maybe that's why so many families have a March, June, September, or December uncle that everyone smiles about.

Check for your birth month below.

March-born men are usually easy to be around. They don't talk down to kids or brush them off when they're asking a million questions. Instead, they join in. One minute they're helping build a LEGO city, and the next they're outside looking for frogs or skipping rocks at the lake. They have a calm way about them that makes kids feel comfortable, and that connection often lasts long after childhood. Either a creative Pisces or a bold Aries, these uncles usually make you feel relaxed in their company.

MORE: 4 Zodiac Signs Feeling a "Fireworks-Level" Shift This July 4, Thanks to Mars–Uranus Energy

If every family has an uncle who can make you laugh, there's a good chance he was born in June. They rarely need much of a reason to start telling stories or joking around. This uncle can turn an ordinary cookout into one of the best memories. Kids like them for being fun, but adults appreciate them for keeping things light without trying to be the center of attention. Whether a talkative Gemini or a caring Cancer, family has a way of bringing out the best in June-borns.

September uncles are usually the ones everyone can depend on. If they promise they'll be at a birthday party, a school play, or a Saturday soccer game, they show up. They don't make a big deal about it either—they just do what they said they were going to do. Either a practical Virgo or an easygoing Libra, this birth month often brings a special someone your family can count on. Above all, they're patient when it comes to teaching kids something new. Whether it's helping fix a flat bike tire, showing them how to cast a fishing line, or explaining homework, they never seem annoyed by it. Those everyday moments are often the ones nieces and nephews remember most as they get older.

RELATE?: These 4 Birth Months Are Known for Being Deeply Nostalgic

There's rarely a dull moment with a December-born uncle around. He might decide everyone needs to go fishing before breakfast or pile the kids into the truck for ice cream after dinner just because it sounds like fun. He understands that childhood goes by in the blink of an eye, so he's happy to make the most of it. Ask most nieces and nephews what they remember years later, and it usually isn't the gifts. It's the afternoons that turned into adventures without anyone planning them. Whether they're an adventurous Sagittarius or a determined Capricorn, the uncle born in December makes fun memories come naturally.

UP NEXT:

Adam Sandler is one of the most talked-about guests at the July 2026 wedding of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce where he officiated the couple's nuptials, according to a press release that was sent to People magazine. The actor and comedian worked with Kelce on Happy Gilmore 2 and played a key role in the celebration, according to reports.

On Saturday, July 4, less than 24 hours after the celebrity wedding of the century, Sandler was back on social media, taking to X to wish his fans a happy 4th of July.

"Happy 250th America!!!!!" Sandler captioned a post. He included a picture of the American flag, but many were quick to notice that the flag looked different from today's flag. Sandler posted the 20-star American flag, which became official on July 4, 1818.

While Swifties might have been expected to flood the comments with wedding chatter, the post instead sparked confusion over the flag choice.

Happy 250th America!!!!!
🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/fEy7todMtU

"Here’s a real one, idk wtf you just posted," one person wrote, adding a photo of the current flag with all 50 stars.

"Which 20 states get to celebrate?" someone else asked.

"What's up with your flag, dude?" a third comment read.

Sandler has not shared why he decided to post the American flag from 1818.

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While Sandler’s flag post quickly became the unexpected talking point of Independence Day, it also added an oddly fitting postscript to an already headline-making 24 hours. From officiating one of the most talked-about celebrity weddings in recent memory to sparking confusion online just a day later, the actor is once again the center of pop culture conversation.

Sandler has not said anything about Swift and Kelce's wedding, which is likely by design. Aside from being a good friend of the couple, it's possible that he also signed an NDA to keep wedding details private.

READ NEXT: A Country Music Farewell Tour Is Having an Unexpected Impact Beyond the Stage

"Waiting on a Friend" by the Rolling Stones was the second single from their 1981 Tattoo You album. But, it was actually first recorded in late 1972.

The track started life as part of their Goats Head Soup sessions, and according to Rolling Stones data, it remained musically the same throughout its evolution.

In the liner notes to 1993's compilation album Jump Back, Mick Jagger explained why the song didn't see the light of day for a decade, "We all liked it at the time but it didn't have any lyrics, so there we were...The lyric I added is very gentle and loving, about friendships in the band."

"Waiting on a Friend" shows a more mature, softer side to The Rolling Stones. The track sees serial playboy Mick putting aside women to seek a deeper relationship with friends.

The frontman insists that, "I’m not waiting on a lady. I’m just waiting on a friend", and he fortifies that message by adding that a "smile relieves a heart that grieves."

"But I need someone I can cry to. I need someone to protect," Jagger sings. "Making love and breaking hearts. It is a game for youth."

 Jagger defended the song in a 1983 interview: “Just let me be cynical for a moment. First of all, it’s really not about waiting on a woman friend. It’s just about a friend; it doesn’t matter if it’s a man or a woman. I can see people saying, ‘Oh, we’re all much older now, Mick’s writing this much more compassionate stuff, must be about a real person. But that’s only in their perception of it.”

Released as the second single after "Start Me Up", "Waiting on a Friend" became a radio hit in the US, where it reached No. 13 on the singles chart in early 1982.

By now it’s no secret that Taylor Swiftand Travis Kelce tied the knot on July 3 at Madison Square Garden. And while there were some reports that guests had to sign NDAs before the wedding, it looks like a few insider photos of the event have already hit social media. 

There’s no official word on whether Taylor and Travis actually had NDAs for their celebrity guest list. But based on what Maren Morris just shared, they probably didn’t (at least, not for everyone or about everything).

The country superstar posted a carousel of photos (on Instagram) Saturday morning featuring herself and pal Kelsa Ballerini. Along with her gorgeously glam black gown, Morris treated fans to a photo featuring a delicate lace handkerchief embroidered with the lyrics, “so it’s gonna be forever” from ‘Blank Space,’ the wedding date, ‘July 3, 2026,’ the wedding city (New York City), and a ‘T’ with two hearts at the center.

Morris aptly captioned her post, “baby just say yes.” And it wasn’t just Taylor and Travis who said yes. Fans and a few famous faces are also saying yes to Marin’s (and Kelsea’s) look. Jonathan Van Ness gave a shout-out to “The glam,” and Heather McMahan wrote, “My girls! Stunning!” Others added, “NYC looks good on the Nashville girlies” and “Best dressed of the night goes to MM by a landslide.”

Of course, the lacey hankie isn't the only party favor guests got. On Friday,Page Six reported that close friends and family who attended Swift and Kelce’s rehearsal dinner (on Thursday evening) took home a luxe gift. 

After guests were spotted leaving the pre-wedding party with mysterious black velvet boxes, a source told Page Six that each one contained a swanky diamond-adorned champagne flute. Photos taken of the boxes feature the same heart-in-heart letter ‘T’ design seen on the handkerchiefs. 

As of now, Morris is the only guest who has posted a pic of the favor. But plenty of other attendees have already shared photos of their own looks. Even though Kelsea Ballerini is in her friend’s wedding night carousel, she also posted a few shots of her own. Likewise, fellow country star Miranda Lambert also gave her fans a glimpse of the glamorous night.

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Halloween lovers aren't waiting until October anymore. Thanks to the rise of Summerween, autumn has officially crept into the middle of summer, with themed movie nights, backyard parties, neon pink and orange-and-black decor, and early shopping hauls taking over social media months ahead of fall. If you're looking to give your outdoor space a subtle spooky touch without covering your lawn in pumpkins, Amazon has an adorable find that's right on theme. 

The Bshine Cat Solar Light Yard Stake is currently 33% off, dropping from $30 to just $20. Equal parts whimsical and functional, it's an understated way to embrace the Summerween trend while adding a decorative accent to flower beds, walkways, and planters that can be left out year-round.

Courtesy of Amazon

Dubbed as “sturdy” and “adorable” by shoppers, this whimsical black cat brings personality to your outdoor space during the day and a “bright” glow after dark. Measuring 20.8 inches tall and 12 inches wide, the silhouette features a curious cat sitting upright with one paw extended, holding a hanging lantern that measures 4.7 inches high by 3 inches wide. 

Instead of a solid silhouette, the cat's body is decorated with intricate floral and leafy cutout details that resemble delicate paper-cut artwork, giving the design a lighter, more decorative feel. The lantern hangs from a short chain beneath the raised paw, moving when the breeze picks up, while the sturdy ground stake makes it easy to nestle into flower beds, planters, pathways, or landscaped borders.

The built-in solar panel charges throughout the day, then automatically turns the LED lantern on at dusk and off at sunrise with no outlets, batteries, or wiring required. Once fully charged, the light provides 8 to 10 hours of illumination, casting a warm glow that's perfect for welcoming guests or adding ambiance to al fresco dinners. 

Made with weather-resistant materials that can withstand “pouring rain and windy conditions” as well as snow and heat according to shoppers, it's designed to stay outdoors season after season. Whether you pair it with colorful blooms in the spring, lush greenery in the summer, pumpkins and mums in the fall, or leave it on display year-round, this charming cat adds a playful finishing touch that's sure to delight gardeners, cat lovers, and anyone who appreciates a little whimsy in their life. 

• Paxato Cat Solar Lantern Garden Statue, from $17 (was $20) at Amazon
• Nacome Cat Outdoor Statue With Light-Up Butterfly, from $20 (was $27) at Amazon
• Twinbling Black Cat Yard Solar Lantern Stake, $16 (was $20) at Amazon

Related: Walmart’s 'Colorful' $16 Mosaic Solar Lanterns Are the Prettiest Way to Light Up Your Yard This Summer

If you're already counting down to spooky season, the $20 Bshine Cat Solar Light Yard Stake is an easy way to hint at Halloween without going full-on haunt. Shop it while it's still 33% off at Amazon!

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Krispy Kreme is celebrating the Fourth of July with free donuts!

On Friday, July 4, customers can score a free Original Glazed Donut for one day only.

Here's how to claim yours before the offer ends.

Customers who wear red, white and blue to a participating Krispy Kreme location on July 4 can receive one free Original Glazed Donut while supplies last.

No purchase is necessary, and the offer is limited to one donut per person.

RELATED: Taco Bell Is Giving Away Free Tacos to World Cup Fans Through July 13—Here’s How to Claim Yours

The chain is also offering even more ways to celebrate Independence Day!

Krispy Kreme's limited-time Fourth of July Donut Collection is available through July 4 in store, for pickup and delivery, and at select retailers. The patriotic lineup includes the USA donut, firework donut, freedom ring donut, and chocolate iced with patriotic sprinkles.

From July 2 through Saturday, July 5, customers who purchase any regular-priced dozen or 16-count minis can also add an Original Glazed Dozen for just $2.50.

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Whether you have a garage that needs organizing, an office that stores small-business supplies or a workshop that's been begging for a little order, creative storage solutions can help maximize space and effectively cut down on clutter.

While not every space needs a full-blown industrial storage setup, a heavy-duty rack can be a game changer for storing extra-heavy items. That's where Costco comes in with Gorilla Rack Industrial Shelving, a 4-tier storage essential that's perfect for home offices, workshops, garages and beyond. With a hefty in-store discount compared to its online price, it's worth racing to your local warehouse now to snag one before it's gone.

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Spotted by @costcowonders, who wasted no time sharing the news online, Costco's Gorilla Rack Industrial Shelving is currently priced at $180 in store, a steep discount from its online price. And while you can save $20 by snagging it online, buying it in store knocks a whopping $100 off the original retail price. Considering Fourth of July weekend is typically known for deals on everything from grills to barbecue supplies, this special holiday price is too good to ignore and is only available through July 6.

Designed to bring order to compact and sprawling spaces alike, the Gorilla Rack Industrial Shelving unit offers extra strength and stability for all your storage needs, complete with four adjustable shelves that each hold up to 2,000 pounds of evenly distributed weight. Built to last, it features welded end frames with a powder-coated finish to resist scrapes and dents, plus an easy, tool-free assembly that goes up in minutes.

Related: Shoppers Are Racing to IKEA for This 'Solid and Beautiful' $25 Countertop Upgrade

Adding to the convenience, these racks are also expandable, allowing you to connect multiple units side by side, depending on what your space allows. Standing 72 inches tall, 77 inches wide and 24 inches deep, just one rack offers plenty of space for storing items like power tools, large bins, gardening supplies, holiday decorations, camping gear and more. Even better, the wire shelves can be upgraded by adding a piece of plywood cut to size and laid on top for extra support when storing heavier loads.

"These racks are great," one shopper who works at a food pantry wrote in a review. "Because of the volume we stock, we added 1/2-inch plywood on each shelf, which only improved the structure and sturdiness."

Other shoppers echoed similar sentiments, with one calling the rack "worth every penny" and "bombproof," adding that, unlike plastic shelves, the unit allows them to use the full width of their storage totes. They also noted the adjustable shelf heights make it easy to store larger items like a "shop vac and coolers."

"It's everything I ever wanted," another fan raved. "I own three similar storage racks made by another brand and I think I prefer these Gorilla racks more!"

If you're already picturing the perfect place to set one up, we suggest heading to your local warehouse this weekend, as the sale price will only last through July 6. And once you've secured one (or two) for your space, don't forget to take advantage of the included limited manufacturer's warranty to get the most out of your purchase. While you're at it, take a peek at Costco's new portable reading desk and stylish area rugs for even more must-have home and office upgrades.

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

Serena Williams' historic comeback has come to a premature end. On Saturday, the tennis phenom announced that she has withdrawn from Wimbledon’s doubles tournament. 

The 44-year-old athlete was set to play alongside her superstar sisterVenus Williamson July 4th. But during her first-round singles match at Wimbledon against Maya Joint, Serena suffered a devastating knee injury. 

Per ESPN, her agent, Jill Smoller, issued a statement last Wednesday, sharing that the player has “tweaked her right knee at the end of the first set.” Smoller added, “She left that night unaided and is doing everything she can to be ready for her doubles match later this week.” 

Serena also spoke out about the injury, writing on Instagram, “It felt so good to be back on the grass at @wimbledon. I’m incredibly thankful for the wild card, and even more grateful my daughters got to see that it’s never too late to chase something you love. I tweaked my knee late in the first set, but I’ll be doing everything I can to be ready for doubles with @venuswilliams.”

As of Friday, sources close to Serena believed she would play in the doubles match with Venus on Saturday. But early on the 4th, she posted a gut-wrenching Instagram statement, “I’m heartbroken to have to withdraw from doubles. Coming back to compete again has been a gift, and the opportunity to play alongside @venuswilliams once more meant the world to me. I did everything I could to be ready, but unfortunately my knee just isn’t ready to compete.”

And based on her post, Serena certainly tried everything. The series of snapshorts includes pics of four syringes filled with yellow fluid that Williams explains is “the fluid they drained from my knee after my singles match…yikes!” She also included a photo of her knee covered in kinesiology tape and one with a physical therapist or athletic trainer. 

Along with the photos, Williams posted a video of herself (and one of her daughters) hobbling down a hallway, her entire right leg covered in bandages. The tennis star also added a few special thank-yous. “I’m especially grateful to tournament director Jamie Baker and the entire tournament team for giving me the opportunity to play here. Thank you to the fans for your incredible support and for making this comeback so meaningful.” 

If you’re wondering whether this is the first and last comeback tournament for Williams, she revealed in a cryptic message, “All I can say is stay tuned to a city near you.”

Malia Obama just turned 28, and her proud parents are showing off how much she's grown up.

Malia, the eldest daughter of Former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama, celebrates her 28th birthday on July 4th. Feeling nostalgia for her days as a baby, Malia's dad took to social media to share an adorable photo of himself reading Goodnight Moon to his infant daughter. In the second slide, an adult Malia leans on her dad and looks more stunning than ever.

"Happy Birthday, Malia! Don’t know where the time goes – but the joy of having you as a daughter never gets old," Barack Obama captioned his sweet photo set.

Check out the shots below, which shocked followers who couldn't believe how much Malia has matured since her days in the White House.

Malia's mom also took to social media to share about her daughter's birthday. In a short video showing Malia posing alongside her mom and sister, Sasha, 25, the beauty made it clear that she's no longer a little girl.

"Happy birthday, Malia!" Michelle Obama wrote in a touching post, which showed Malia wearing baggy jeans and a white crop top. "You bring so much light and energy into the world with everything you do. Your dad and I are so proud of the woman you’ve become. ❤️."

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Last month, Malia stunned alongside her sister at the opening of the Barack Obama Presidential Center in Chicago, Illinois. Boasting a unique style, Malia, who currently works in the film industry, wore a gray blazer with a plunging neckline. Sasha wore a cream-colored outfit with an oversized leather belt. Check out the ladies' looks below:

Taylor Hill / Getty Images

Taylor Hill / Getty Images

Over Thanksgiving, Sasha and Malia made a cameo on their parents’ social media accounts. The family beamed in the wholesome shot.

“During this season of giving, let’s do what we can to give back to the communities that have given us so much,” the Obamas captioned the family shot. “From our family to yours, have a wonderful Thanksgiving!”

Related: Sasha, 25, and Malia Obama, 27, Are All Grown up and Beautiful at the Barack Obama Presidential Center

John Waite, the beloved rock star who was among the defining voices of the late-1970s and 1980s classic rock era, is celebrating his 74th birthday.

From cementing his name as the iconic frontman of The Babys, the supergroup Bad English and enjoying a chart-topping solo career, the Lancaster native is marking another milestone.

Born on July 4, 1952, he grew up in a working-class environment, but that didn't stop him from pursuing his love for music.

After high school, Waite attended Lancaster Art College, where he developed a deeper passion for music and began playing in bands.

“When I was at art school, I started to play in a band and we actually played a few art school dances,” he toldSongwriting Magazine. “The next thing I knew, at the end of the four years, I got a diploma and it was like, ‘Now what do you do?’ There are no jobs for painters. I realized I was never going to set the world on fire by painting and drawing and I had this thing for music and I thought, ‘Even if I’m not great, it’s going to be more original if I pursue music.’ And so I turned my attention to that.”

He has since built a lasting legacy through a decades-long career and timeless songs.

Waite first gained prominence as the vocalist and bassist of The Babys, delivering a distinctive blend of hard rock, soul and melodic power pop.

Maureen Donaldson/Getty Images

Joined by Tony Brock on drums and backing vocals, Wally Stocker on lead guitar and Michael Corby on keyboards and rhythm guitar, the band scored signature hits including "Isn't It Time" and "Every Time I Think of You."

Formed in 1975, The Babys released five studio albums with Waite as lead vocalist.

He left the band in 1980 due to internal conflict.

During the band's tour supporting Broken Heart, tensions rose between him and Corby.

Brock recalled that Corby's behavior frequently caused problems within the band.

“Michael was prone to bad behaviour; he was a funny guy, but sometimes his sense of humour got him into trouble,” the drummer shared, as mentioned byLouder Sound.

Waite revealed that this was something he had “never spoken about before,” calling it the “beginning of the end of The Babys.”

“It began on the night that Michael came at me with a broken bottle,” he told the outlet. “On the way home from a gig, we got into a fight on the bus. Tony Brock and Ron Stone, our [new] manager, wrestled Michael to the ground and calmed him down, but the record company got wind of what had happened and then the situation was out of my hands. That’s the truth… I’d swear it on a whole stack of Bibles.”

Following the band's breakup, Waite launched a solo career and released the hit "Missing You" from his 1984 album No Brakes.

He later co-founded the supergroup Bad English with Jonathan Cain, Neal Schon, Ricky Phillips and Deen Castronovo.

Although the band lasted only four years, Bad English has been recognized as one of rock's greatest supergroups, further cementing Waite's legacy.

Despite his success, Waite has always valued his personal life over fame.

“My life matters more to me than my career,” the musician toldSt. Pete Catalyst. “And that’s, I think, why the music has remained intense, because I put one thing before the other. And I’m really not very good, or interested, in the music business. It is what it is. If it’s being a musician and a songwriter, I am. I just go my own way.”

He also said his goal has always been to create meaningful music that genuinely connects with listeners.

Related: '80s Rock Band, With No. 1 Hit Song, Ranked Among 'Best Supergroups' of All Time

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If you want to take your hosting game to the next level this summer, your serveware is equally as important as the food. From casual dinners to extravagant garden parties, the proper platters, bowls, and trays can instantly elevate your table setting. Racking up nearly 400 five-star ratings, this Better Homes & Gardens Large Acacia Wood Serving Bowl at Walmart is a great choice for all your entertaining needs. 

Right now, you can score this wooden serving bowl on sale for less than $25. Normally retailing for $28, it’s now marked down to just $20. While stunning on its own, you can also snag a matching serving tray on sale for $20 or a matching serving board on sale for $16 if you want to create a cohesive look.  

Courtesy of Walmart

Made of acacia wood, this serving bowl will elevate your hosting game. Measuring 4 inches tall with a 12-inch diameter, it has a generous capacity, making it ideal for small and large gatherings alike. Whether you’re hosting a World Cup watch party, backyard barbecue, or a casual hangout with friends, this serving bowl is a stylish and convenient way to provide your guests with some delicious food. 

You can use this bowl to serve snacks like chips and pretzels, dishes like salads and pastas, and anything in between. Acacia wood is naturally moisture-resistant, preventing liquids from seeping through and absorbing into the material. It’ll give you peace of mind, knowing that your bowl will remain free of stains and odors.

This serving bowl is also incredibly durable and can withstand drops without chipping or denting. It’s a safer alternative compared to glass or ceramic, especially if you use it outside and have children playing around in the yard. Many reviewers noted that the bowl is heavy, which attests to its high-quality, sturdiness, and durability. 

Featuring an exposed woodgrain finish, this bowl exudes rustic charm and lends itself to the farmhouse aesthetic. When you aren’t using it for hosting, it doubles as a piece of decor that’ll add a cozy and warm accent to your space. This bowl has earned compliments from several reviewers, describing it as "beautiful" and “absolutely gorgeous.” One shopper mentioned that it “feels and looks expensive” and said that it’s akin to something you’d find at a high-end home goods store.  

With a sleek and streamlined silhouette that tapers down, it’ll complement the rest of your furniture and decor instead of clashing. You can place it on your dining table or kitchen counter and either leave it empty or fill it with fruits, potpourri, or natural fillers. Multiple reviewers noted that they also used this bowl to proof bread dough. 

• Tinana 6-Piece Acacia Wood Spoons, $18 (was $35) at Walmart
• Better Homes & Gardens Tomato Serve Bowl, From $2 (was $10) at Walmart
• Better Homes & Gardens Acacia Wood Tray, $20 (was $28) at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s $4 Cotton-Linen Top Is a 'Lightweight,' Budget-Friendly Basic for Scorching Summer Days

Add style and convenience to all your summer gatherings with the Better Homes & Gardens Large Acacia Wood Serving Bowl at Walmart. Don’t hesitate to snag it while it’s still on sale for just $20 — and be sure to hurry because it’s already flying off the shelves! 

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