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Ever since Matt Groening's animated series, The Simpsons, debuted on Fox in 1989, our favorite dysfunctional family and their chaotic town of Springfield have been making fans and critics laugh, cry, and cringe. There's a reason that the show, which has continued to air while others have come and gone, has been nominated for 104 Emmy Awards and won 37 of them. But on this particular Fourth of July, there's one episode that strikes a chord with everyone.

The Ultimate Coming-of-Age Story in Springfield

Season 7's "Summer of 4 Ft. 2" premiered 30 years ago, yet it still resonates with fans just as loudly as it did in 1996. The title is a play on the title of the 1971 coming-of-age film, Summer of '42.

The episode focuses on Lisa, who is distraught after no one signs her yearbook on the last day of school. Feeling alone and friendless, a family trip to Ned Flanders' beach house gives her an opportunity to reinvent herself. First step: Lisa "forgets" to pack, leading to a shopping trip with Marge for new, cool clothes.

Lisa struggles to avoid her favorite places, such as the library. After spotting a group of kids, she acts aloof and pretends the big words she knows are from watching Baywatch. After she pretends to know how to skateboard, the kids accept her. Erin (voiced by Christina Ricci) even makes her a friendship bracelet. At the same time, her new friends make fun of Bart, mocking him for trying too hard.

Bart decides to get revenge, showing the kids Lisa's yearbook. As they see that she was the teacher's pet, had perfect attendance, and other not-so-cool things, Lisa runs away in tears. In the end, Lisa's friends reveal that they like her for who she is, and Bart's apology includes getting them to sign Lisa's yearbook.

Why Lisa’s Quest for 'Cool' Still Resonates 30 Years Later

Thanks to its nostalgic and relatable plot, the episode is consistently ranked not just as one of the greatest Fourth of July episodes in TV history, but as one of the best episodes of The Simpsons overall. "It has so many jokes and hilarious moments, also balanced with the tender moments," one fan wrote on the show's Reddit page. "Also each main character gets a funny moment."

Three decades later, "Summer of 4 Ft. 2" still shines as the ultimate Fourth of July classic. By beautifully balancing Springfield's trademark cynicism with a deeply relatable coming-of-age story, it remains a powerful reminder that the coolest thing you can ever be is yourself.

Today's NYT Strands puzzle might remind you of Katy Perry's hit 2010 single by the same name. Move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times' recent game, "Strands," is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.

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

We'll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today's Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #853 on Saturday, July 4.

How to Play Strands

The New York Times

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

Find theme words to fill the board.

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

Find the “spangram.”

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

Need a hint?

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

What Is Today's Strands Hint for the Theme: "Ooh!"

A hint for today's Strands game: Best done in the dark.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

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

• BR
• EX
• CO
• DA
• SP
• FI (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

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

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for July 4

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Saturday, July 4, 2026, isFIREWORKS.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Saturday, July 4?

• BRIGHT
• EXCITING
• COLORFUL
• DAZZLING
• SPARKLING
• SPANGRAM: FIREWORKS

Related: Here's When You Can Shop at Aldi on Fourth of July This Year

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There's something irresistible about a kitchen filled with color, whimsy, and a hint of nostalgia. The Pioneer Woman's rustic floral kitchenware finds at Walmart, curated by Food Network star and author Ree Drummond, brings all that farmhouse charm home. Starting at just $19, this collection will make your space feel cozy and inviting without stretching your budget. 

Whether you're hosting a family dinner, prepping summer salads, or searching for the perfect cottagecore gift, these vintage-inspired pieces add a cozy touch to every corner of your kitchen. They're selling fast at Walmart, so don't wait too long to add any that catch your eye to your cart.

The Pioneer Woman Agatha 12-Piece Stoneware Dinnerware Set, $56 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The heart of the collection is the Agatha 12-Piece Stoneware Dinnerware Set, available in vibrant green, classic blue, and earthy brown with cheerful floral designs. Crafted from durable stoneware, it's microwave- and dishwasher-safe, making it both beautiful and practical for everyday use.

This "beautiful set of dishes" reminds shoppers of "French dishes in Paris" because they have "the same pretty pattern." This all-in-one collection includes four 10.5-inch dinner plates, four 8.5-inch salad plates, and four 6-inch bowls, providing a full place setting for four.

The Pioneer Woman 10-Piece Melamine Mixing Bowl Set, From $30 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Baking and meal prep become a delight with The Pioneer Woman's 10-Piece Melamine Mixing Bowl Set. Each bowl boasts Ree's signature floral farmhouse flair, and the snap-on lids make food storage a breeze. Lightweight yet sturdy, these bowls are perfect for everything from mixing pancake batter with the kids to stashing leftovers after a backyard barbecue. They're shatter-resistant and totally ready for real life.

With over 6,600 five-star ratings, shoppers know these bowls are "great to store leftovers or to take to a potluck." You get a range of sizes too, from a roomy 10.5 inches down to a handy 6 inches. And they stack right inside each other, so they won’t crowd your cabinets. 

The Pioneer Woman Agatha Stoneware 16-Inch Serving Platter, From $22 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Upgrade your next dinner party with the Agatha Stoneware 16-inch Serving Platter, which steals the spotlight with its intricate floral detailing and vintage-inspired shape. It's generously sized for roasts, appetizers, or a dazzling dessert spread. Plus, it's just as happy going from oven to table as it is brightening up a shelf when not in use.

Its spacious 16-inch size is perfect for serving everything from appetizers to main dishes, making it a versatile addition for family dinners or gatherings. This durable platter is both microwave- and dishwasher-safe for easy use and post-party cleanup.

The Pioneer Woman Agatha Stoneware Cow Food Storage Jar, $19 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Storage meets style with the Agatha Stoneware Cow Food Storage Jar. This playful, floral-trimmed cow jar with its bird-topped lid is a conversation starter and a practical solution for cookies, coffee, or flour. It's the kind of piece that draws smiles every time you reach for a treat.

It's a perfectly affordable treat for your kitchen for daily use or entertaining, and pairs beautifully with other pieces from the collection for a personalized farmhouse look.

The Pioneer Woman Agatha Stoneware Pitcher, $22 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Even the little details feel special with the Agatha Stoneware Pitcher. Decorated with a butterfly and vintage florals, this two-quart pitcher makes pouring lemonade or sweet tea feel like a delightful occasion. Like the rest of the collection, it's dishwasher- and microwave-safe, ensuring practicality meets beauty in your everyday routines.

Over 500 shoppers gave this "stunningly beautiful" pitcher a five-star rating, and loved how they can build "an entire set of this pattern."

Shop More Deals

• Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Dome Crossbody Bag, $60 (was $289) at Walmart
• Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 6-Quart Slow Cooker, $42 (was $64) at Walmart
• Crock-Pot Manual 7-Quart Premium Slow Cooker, $41 at Walmart

Related: Anthropologie Is Selling ‘Super Smooth’ $5 Glazed Stoneware Mugs That Look Like ‘Statement’ Decor

Why wait for a farmhouse escape when you can create that cozy, collected look right at home? The Pioneer Woman's Rustic Floral Kitchenware Collection turns every meal into a celebration. Starting at just $19, it's the sweetest way to make your kitchen bloom.

Stay updated on the latest offers by signing up for Parade Picks and receive curated discounts and sales twice a week to enhance your shopping experience.

By the summer of 1956, Elvis Presley had become one of the biggest names in music. But despite his meteoric rise to fame, the King of Rock 'n' Roll never forgot where he came from.

On July 4, 1956, Presley returned to his hometown of Memphis, Tennessee, to headline a charity concert at Russwood Park, the city's longtime baseball stadium. The event, organized to benefit local charities, drew thousands of eager fans hoping to catch a glimpse of the singer whose career had exploded seemingly overnight.

It wasn't just another stop on his tour.

For Memphis residents, the concert marked a triumphant homecoming for the young musician who had grown up in the city after moving there from Tupelo, Mississippi, as a teenager. Just months earlier, Presley had scored his first No. 1 hit with "Heartbreak Hotel" and was quickly becoming a national phenomenon thanks to his electrifying television appearances and energetic live performances.

The excitement surrounding the concert was unlike anything Memphis had experienced before.

Fans packed Russwood Park hours before showtime, with many screaming so loudly that reports from the evening noted it was often difficult to hear the music. Presley performed many of the songs that had launched him to stardom, including "Heartbreak Hotel," "Blue Suede Shoes" and "Hound Dog," sending the crowd into a frenzy.

The charity concert also reflected a side of Presley that was often overshadowed by his fame. While his performances regularly made headlines for their energy and controversy, he frequently donated his time to benefit causes close to home, especially during the early years of his career.

Today, the Russwood Park concert is remembered as one of the defining moments of Elvis' breakthrough year. It captured a unique point in his journey when the hometown kid who had dreamed of making it big returned as America's newest superstar.

RELATED: Willie Nelson Fans Will Want to Act Fast—This Limited-Edition Flannel Is Still Available

In order to solve today's NYT Connections puzzle, you'll need to be steadfast. There's nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, Strands, Mini Crossword and Connections Sports Edition word games in one fell swoop. But sometimes that can be easier said than done. If you need help with today's Connections puzzle, keep reading.

Spoilers ahead! We've warned you. We mean it. Read no further until you really want some clues or you've completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today's NYT 'Connections’ hints and answers for #1119 onSaturday, July 4, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Saturday, July 4, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

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

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

Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Saturday, July 4

1. To be determined.
2. Like Homer's The Odyssey.
3. Often served with an umbrella.
4. Sugary terms of endearment.

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

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

iStock

Today's Connections Game Answers for Saturday, July 4:

1. PERSIST: CONTINUE, LAST, LINGER, STAY
2. KINDS OF POEMS: BALLAD, EPIC, ODE, VILLANELLE
3. TROPICAL DRINKS: HURRICANE, PAINKILLER, SCORPION, ZOMBIE
4. SWEET ___: DREAMS, NOTHINGS, PEA, SPOT

How'd you do?

Up Next:

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

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

Related: What Are Target's 2026 Fourth of July Hours?

Today's NYT Wordle might just make you crave a dollar slice. But the day just isn't complete until I've solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword. And, of course, I can’t forget about Wordle, too! If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1841 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

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

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

Today's Wordle begins with a consonant.

Are there any double letters?

There are double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle

A hint for today's Wordle is: Make mine with extra cheese!

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

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

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

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

The New York Times

Today's Wordle Answer for #1841 on Saturday, July 4, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Saturday, July 4, 2026, is PIZZA.

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

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

Gary Numan, the iconic rock star who pioneered electronic music, has announced an exciting addition to his highly anticipated 2026 North American Tour.

Following the success of his spring tour, the 68-year-old musician took to social media to reveal the special guest joining him for his string of shows this fall.

In an Instagram update, the "Are 'Friends' Electric?" hitmaker proudly introduced the acclaimed duo Ｔ Ｒ Ｅ Ｍ Ｏ Ｕ Ｒ Ｓ as his supporting act for his North American mini tour.

In addition, Numan is giving fans a behind-the-scenes experience by offering Soundcheck Passes for attendees on his North American tour, allowing them to watch part of the pre-show soundcheck before each concert.

Gary Numan performs onstage during a concert at O2 Academy Bournemouth on November 19, 2025 in Bournemouth, England.

Mark Holloway/Redferns

The upcoming fall tour is set to kick off on Nov. 12 in Chandler, Arizona, followed by one-night shows in Nevada, California, Washington and more before concluding the 11-date tour on Nov. 25 in San Diego, California.

View this post on Instagram

Back in April, Numan initially announced a short North American tour after being invited to perform at the Darker Waves Festival in California.

The tour was expanded with several additional dates, turning the festival appearance into a short regional run.

Since last year, the new-wave and synth-pop musician has been touring extensively across multiple cities.

He began the tour in October 2025 in Georgia, followed by a few shows in the U.S. before heading to the U.K. in November for a series of shows.

Currently, he is in the middle of his UK and European Summer Tour, covering cities including Glasgow, Norwich, Bournemouth, Buckley, Northampton, London, Amsterdam and more.

Gary Numan Tour 2026

Jul. 17: Glasgow, UK - Queens Park Arena
Jul. 20: Norwich, UK - Adrian Flux Waterfront
Jul. 21: Norwich, UK - Adrian Flux Waterfront
Jul. 23: Bournemouth, UK - Old Fire Station
Jul. 24: Bournemouth, UK - Old Fire Station
Jul. 27: Buckley, UK - The Tivoli
Jul. 29: Buckley - The Tivoli
Aug. 2: Lokeren - Lokerse Feesten
Aug. 3: Amsterdam - Paradiso
Aug. 4: Northampton - Roadmender
Aug. 5: Northampton - Roadmender
Aug. 6: London - Crystal Palace Bowl (with Marc Almond & Ladytron)
Nov. 12: Chandler, AZ - Gila River Resorts & Casinos
Nov. 13: Las Vegas, NV - House of Blues
Nov. 14: Huntington Beach, CA - Darker Waves Festival
Nov. 16: Los Angeles, CA - The Fonda
Nov. 17: Sacramento, CA - Ace of Spades
Nov. 19: Seattle, WA - Neptune Theatre
Nov. 20: Portland, OR - Revolution Hall
Nov. 21: Vancouver, BC - Vogue Theatre
Nov. 23: San Francisco, CA - The Regency Ballroom
Nov. 24: Monterey, CA - Golden State Theatre
Nov. 25: San Diego, CA - Observatory North Park

Related: ’90s Metal Band, Once Split for Nearly 10 Years, Announces 2026 Tour Update

Sometimes, or even oftentimes, a musician's biggest hit isn't one of their personal favorites, or even a tune they expected to have any potential for success. Such is the case with acclaimed singer-songwriter Loudon Wainwright III's only song ever to hit the charts: "Dead Skunk."

Released as a single in 1972, "Dead Skunk" didn't catch on right away, but by the end of March in 1973, the track made it all the way to #16 on the Billboard Hot 100. Pretty impressive, especially considering the song was inspired by roadkill and written in mere minutes.

As Wainwright told A.V. Club in 2012, "Dead Skunk" is "a perfect example of how ridiculous show business is."

"I wrote that song in 12 minutes or something," Wainwright explained, adding, "I ran over a skunk that had already been run over."

Though fans and music critics at the time wondered if perhaps the lyrics had a deeper meaning behind them, the story is apparently as straightforward as it sounds:

Crossing the highway late last night
He shoulda looked left and he shoulda looked right
He didn't see the station wagon car
The skunk got squashed and there you are

You got your dead skunk in the middle of the road
Dead skunk in the middle of the road
Dead skunk in the middle of the road
Stinking to high heaven

"Some of my songs are very nonsensical, and that was one of them," Wainwright said. "I went in and started to perform it, and I realized people loved it...So I became the 'funny-animal-guy songwriter.' Which got to be a drag after a while. But I certainly made a lot of money that year."

Even if it was kind of a drag, Wainwright went on to admit that it's "fun to have a hit."

"It’s really fun to be driving around and listen to yourself on the radio, and boy, that record got a lot of airplay at that time. So I’ve enjoyed that, but I don’t think it’s one of my best songs," he said.

As for why the "silly and goofy" song resonated with listeners, Wainwright said he didn't know, though he recognized it was "something everybody can relate to."

Ian Dickson / Getty Images

Indeed. Over 50 years since "Dead Skunk" was a radio hit, the song still brings up fond memories for fans, many of whom heard it for the first time during childhood road trips. As the comments on the above YouTube video of the song prove, it's become a kind of family tradition for some:

"My dad just passed away and he was the one who instilled the love of this song in me," one person wrote. "So darn catchy!"

"Sang it to my kids EVERY TIME we drove past the scent. They thought dad made it up until one day one of them found it online," a second commenter quipped.

"My dad always sang the chorus of this song growing up when we passed a dead skunk. This is the first time I've actually heard it," someone else commented, with another adding, "My dad used to sing this chorus on every single road trip...50 years ago. I looked up this artist I heard on a podcast. And there it was. I thought my dad made it up!"

"I remember playing at my cousin’s house in the early 80’s and my Mom and her sister thought it would be fun to call the radio station and request this song," yet another fan recalled. "I never heard it before and when they played it, we were all just laughing until we were crying. Such good memories!"

When asked if funny songs get taken less seriously, Wainwright was quick to point out the value of humor in music.

"If you think about it, to get a group of people to laugh all at the same time — I mean, this is if you’re performing a song live, and mostly when I write my songs, I think about how they’re going to work in a live performance setting — it’s a tricky little thing to actually grab people and make them laugh," he said. "Some of my absolute favorite songwriters are so-called 'novelty-song writers.' People like Tom Lehrer, Allan Sherman, Ray Stevens. I love to laugh, and it’s a wonderful feeling to make an audience laugh. I think of myself as a switch-hitter. I can go both ways. I can make people laugh, and then I can be rather serious. And in some cases, I can do it in the same song."

Now, like Wainwright sings...come on, stink!

Related: 1966 Classic Rock Anthem, Written in 10 Minutes, Was Sung by an 18-Year-Old

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Summer is made for being outside, and the right pair of sandals can keep up with all of it — hikes, bike rides, and long walks included. Many flip-flops are comfortable for quick errands or the pool, but they often fall short when it comes to walking, traveling, or spending hours outdoors. 

For shoppers who want a sandal that can handle the activity but still slips on easily, the Skechers’ Reggae Trailway Flip-Flop Sandals are currently on sale at Amazon for as low as $42, down from $62. The sandals have a contoured footbed and arch support, making them a solid pick for outdoor adventures or everyday wear. One reviewer called them "super comfortable," adding you "can walk all day in them and your feet don't hurt." 

Skechers’ Reggae Trailway Flip-Flop Sandals, $42 (was $62) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The biggest difference between these and your average flip-flops is the level of support. They have a contoured footbed with built-in arch support, making them a comfortable option for sightseeing, vacations, neighborhood walks, and everyday wear.

That extra comfort has earned plenty of praise from reviewers. Shoppers have described them as having “great arch support,” with one calling them the "perfect summer sandals." Another mentioned that they were a "great choice” for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis. 

An adjustable hook-and-loop strap lets you customize the fit, while the toe-loop cross-strap design helps keep your foot securely in place. The sandals have a durable rubber outsole with a one-inch heel that provides stable footing on a variety of surfaces. One happy shopper wrote, "I walk three miles in them three to four times per week, and they just keep going with no problems." When you need to clean them, you can just throw them in the wash.

These “sporty and cute” sandals are available in black and natural colorways. Sizing runs from 5 through 12, including half sizes. Prices vary by color, with styles starting at $42. The natural colorway is currently $51, which is still a nice savings off the regular price. 

Shop More Deals

• Skechers’ Ultra Flex 3.0 Sandals, $55 (was $75) at Amazon
• Cushionaire Leeds Sandals, $40 (was $60) at Amazon
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Related: Skechers' Strappy Sandals With ‘Good Arch Support' Are $36 at Amazon, and They’re 'Perfect for Wide Feet'

If you're looking for a supportive sandal that can handle all your summer adventures, the Skechers’ Reggae Trailway Flip-Flop Sandals at Amazon are worth adding to your cart while they're in stock and on sale!

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.

Narcotic Wasteland is gearing up for another busy stretch on the road.

The extreme metal band, led by former Nile guitarist and vocalist Dallas Toler-Wade, has announced a new North American headlining tour for summer 2026. The run will feature Visitant as the primary special guest, with Monochromatic Black, IATT and Yotuma appearing on select dates throughout the trek.

The tour kicks off Aug. 10 in Pensacola, Florida, before making stops across the Midwest, Northeast and Southeast. Highlights include performances in Chicago, Minneapolis, Scranton, Wallingford, Lowell, Atlanta, Nashville and Raleigh, wrapping up Aug. 30 in Charleston, West Virginia. Tickets are available through the band's official website.

The newly announced dates continue a productive period for Narcotic Wasteland. Fronted by Toler-Wade following his longtime tenure with technical death metal pioneers Nile, the band has earned a devoted following through its blend of aggressive riffing, technical precision and socially conscious songwriting.

"The energy we felt from fans in both North America and Europe has been incredible," Toler-Wade said in a statement. "We're coming back harder than ever in 2026. Expect a setlist that spans our catalog, new material, and the kind of intensity that defines Narcotic Wasteland."

The group has remained especially active in recent years, building momentum through extensive touring and a series of high-profile support slots. Earlier this year, Narcotic Wasteland toured North America with Belphegor, Incantation and Hate before expanding its live schedule once again with the newly announced headlining run. Audiences have even had the chance to hear some of their favorite Nile songs, too.

"I'm really happy with the way the Nile songs are sounding on the Narcotic set, and it blends pretty seamlessly over because even though Narcotic Wasteland is musically different from Nile, it's still me, and you can tell it’s still me," Toler-Wade told New Noise Magazine. "So it works."

Fans have also continued to embrace the band's latest music. Narcotic Wasteland most recently released a four-song split EP with Visitant in late 2024. The collaborative project featured each band covering songs from the other's catalog, alongside the previously unreleased Visitant track "Supercollider" and Narcotic Wasteland's "Undertow," which originated during the Brian McTernan-produced Vows sessions.

With another month-long tour now on the calendar, Narcotic Wasteland shows no signs of slowing down. The upcoming run gives fans across North America another opportunity to catch one of modern metal’s hardest-working bands alongside Visitant and a rotating lineup of rising heavy acts.

Related: '90s Rocker Announces New Album 37 Years After Beginning Career

You might find today's NYT Mini Crossword puzzle easy if you've ever spent time on the West coast. Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can't forget about the NYT's The Mini Crossword, too!

Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.

So, if you're working on today's Mini Crossword on Saturday, July 4, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Saturday, July 4, 2026

Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: Strike-breaking workers — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

6 Across: Really overdo for the camera —HINT: Starts with the letter "H"

7 Across: Fly into ___ (become furious) — HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

8 Across: Sunniest state in the U.S. — HINT: Ends with the letter "A"

10 Across: Glues back together again — HINT: Starts with the letter "R"

11 Across: Friends of corrupt politicians — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

12 Across: What cotton candy is made of — HINT: Ends with the letter "R"

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

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Ones who don't hog — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

2 Down: Deer in the Arctic tundra — HINT: Starts with the letter "C"

3 Down: "Incredible!!" ... as suggested by the double exclamation mark black squares — HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

4 Down: 2025 film starring Emma Stone as an undercover extraterrestrial — HINT: Ends with the letter "A"

5 Down: Big ___ (person throwing cash around) — HINT: Starts with the letter "S"

8 Down: Curved path — HINT: Ends with the letter "C"

9 Down: Donkey, by another name — HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Saturday, July 4, 2026

Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Answers

1 Across: Strike-breaking workers — SCABS

6 Across: Really overdo for the camera —HAMUP

7 Across: Fly into ___ (become furious) — ARAGE

8 Across: Sunniest state in the U.S. — ARIZONA

10 Across: Glues back together again — REBINDS

11 Across: Friends of corrupt politicians — CRONIES

12 Across: What cotton candy is made of — SUGAR

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Ones who don't hog — SHARERS

2 Down: Deer in the Arctic tundra — CARIBOU

3 Down: "Incredible!!" ... as suggested by the double exclamation mark black squares — AMAZING

4 Down: 2025 film starring Emma Stone as an undercover extraterrestrial — BUGONIA

5 Down: Big ___ (person throwing cash around) — SPENDER

8 Down: Curved path — ARC

9 Down: Donkey, by another name — ASS

Related: Fans Say Logan's Roadhouse's Unexpected New Menu Item 'Low Key Sounds Yum'—and You Won't Believe What It Is

If you don't know the history of Deep Purple's first big hit, "Hush," it might surprise you to learn that the classic rock anthem is actually a cover of a country song. Even more surprising: That country song was inspired by a traditional hymn. So how did a bunch of English hard rockers end up turning "Hush" into a timeless Top 5 sensation?

In 1968, Deep Purple consisted of keyboard player Jon Lord, guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, bassist Nick Simper, singer Rod Evans and drummer Ian Paice (Evans and Simper would later be replaced by Ian Gillan and Roger Glover). As Blackmore explained later, he was introduced to the original "Hush," performed by country singer Billy Joe Royal and based on a time-honored African American spiritual, while spending time in Hamburg.

"I heard 'Hush,' by Billy Joe Royal, when I was living in Germany, and I thought it was a great song," Blackmore told Vintage Guitar. "I also thought it would be a good song to add to our act, if we could come up with a different arrangement."

As Lord recalled in a 2009 interview with Mojo, per Far Out, "Initially we thought it’s a bit too disco, or whatever the word was then. But Ritchie said it would work if we toughened it up a bit.”

At the time, Deep Purple was getting ready to record their debut album, Shades of Deep Purple, and they were inspired by a recent successful cover by another band.

“Vanilla Fudge had covered a Supremes hit ['You Keep Me Hangin’ On'] and turned it into something else,” Glover told Classic Rock. “And that was such an inspiration. That’s what the band tried to do with 'Hush,' put their own spin on it.”

Along with the rest of the songs for Shades of Deep Purple, "Hush" was recorded at London’s Pye studio in the spring of 1968.

Deep Purple

Chris Walter / Getty Images

"We did the whole song in two takes, and we did the whole album in 48 hours," Blackmore said. "We had a total of two tries at everything. Sometimes I like working under pressure like that, because I can really 'flow,' whereas a lot of times I get into a studio situation where I have to go over something too many times, and I get bored stiff, and I lose the spontaneity."

Even after recording "Hush," the band wasn't sure about its potential to be a hit. They wanted to release their cover of The Beatles’ "Help" as a debut single, but the record label insisted on "Hush." Of course, this ended up being the right decision: The song was a big success, peaking at #4 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, and establishing Deep Purple as a major rock and roll presence.

Over 50 years later, Deep Purple's first hit remains one of their most beloved songs — and though the cover has inspired many other covers, including versions by Thin Lizzy and Kula Shaker, Deep Purple's "Hush" is still the most famous.

Related: 1971 Rock Ballad, Inspired by a Mysterious Vision, Was Rejected by Lead Singer Before Becoming a Timeless Classic

It turns out Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce were not already married — after rumors swirled that the ceremony may have happened earlier this week.

Friday, July 3 was wedding day, with Adam Sandlerserving as the celebrity couple's officiant.

The iconic comedian, 59, wasn't the one big name in attendance, of course. Fans of Kelce's know he's an athlete by trade, and there were plenty of other sports stars gracing Madison Square Garden on the federal holiday.

If you're from Los Angeles, chances are you know of Matthew Stafford, for instance, the Rams' star quarterback. Though he and Kelce, 36, have never played together, USA Today reports that Stafford, 38, was spotted at the grand event with his wife.

Fun fact: In 2024, the Stafford family dressed up as Kelce and Swift, 36, for Halloween. Check out their hilarious getups in Kelly Stafford's Instagram post below, captioned, "Six Swifties & a stubborn stache."

View this post on Instagram

Then there's former New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman, who recently posted a photo of himself all suited up to his Instagram Stories with the caption, "Wedding SZN."

Plus, Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield posed in a selfie with former football player Beau Allen, a reported friend of the Kelces who posted the two-shot photo to his X account earlier on Friday.

God forbid a white boy get a little motion @bakermayfield pic.twitter.com/hTxrrpyu95

— Beau Allen (@Beau_Allen) July 3, 2026

And then there's Sandler, a comedian and actor by trade — but who also has some serious sports skills, if anyone knows about his pickup basketball history. Fans will recall he acted alongside Kelce in Happy Gilmore 2 and has been called a friend of the couple. Not only that, but his family is big fans of Swift. In an interview with Billboard that same year, Sandler admitted that his daughters are huge Swifties.

“Everything [my two daughters] throw on I love, but one of the first ones they threw on when they were young was ‘The Best Day,’” Sandler said. “We connected with that when the kids were young. Every album, we listen the first day it comes out. There’s not a song they don’t know every word to.”

After a stressful week following Casa Amor, our favorite Islanders navigated their relationships in the storm that was Movie Night, but with only a little over a week to go before the Season 8 finale, a recoupling ceremony took place and host Ariana Madix announced that the Islanders would have to decide which couple has the weakest chemistry, and as a result two couples went home and America's fourth vote opened up.

Check out spoilers about tonight’s episode below and find out who was dumped from Love Island USA Season 8 in 2026.

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Who went home on Love Island USA Season 8 in 2026 Last Night?Jen TerryGal TshniederAmora “Amora Cachee” RobinsonJaiden BaccioccoCaleb McDaniel

After a massive recoupling Jen was left single as her Casa Amor pairing with Gal came to an end with Gal choosing to couple up with Amora. Following the initial recoupling, the Islanders had to decide who they felt like were the weakest pairing and as a result, Amora and Gal, and Caleb and Jaiden were sent home.

What are we voting for on Love Island USA Season 8 tonight?

Viewers are voting for who they feel are the most compatible couple of Love Island USA Season 8 as of tonight, with the results of the vote being revealed on Sunday night's episode.

What are the new couples on Love Island USA Season 8 after last night?Aniya Harvey & Carl Schmidt Kenzie Annis & Dylan Wrona Corbin Mimis & Parmida KeshaniKayda Bosse & Zach GeorgiouMelanie Moreno & Sincere RheaTrinity Tatum & Bryce DettloffKC Chandler & Tierra DavisWho is left in the game on Love Island USA Season 8 in 2026?Kenzie AnnisDylan Wrona Corbin MimisParmida KeshaniKayda BosseZach GeorgiouMelanie MorenoSincere RheaTrinity Tatum Bryce DettloffAniya HarveyKC ChandlerTierra DavisCarl Schmidt When is the next episode of Love IslandUSA Season 8 in 2026?

The next episode of Love Island USA will air on Sunday at 9 PM ET as the results of America's vote are revealed.

Love Island After Sun airs Saturday at 9 PM ET as viewers see the moment the recently dumped Islanders get their devices back and the first conversations post villa.

Related: 'Married at First Sight' Season 20 Trailer Reveals Brand-New Expert Panel

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce kicked off America's 250th birthday weekend by tying the knot — and it's no coincidence the couple chose this special weekend for their star-studded nuptials.

For Taylor and Travis, 36, who married at Madison Square Garden in New York City on Friday, July 3, the holiday holds special significance. While the "All Too Well" singer has become known for her love of the Fourth of July, typically marked by a party at her Rhode Island mansion, July is actually a monumental month for the couple.

It was July 7, 2023, when the Grammy winner, who'd split from Matty Healy a month prior, celebrated her single era alongside pals Selena Gomez, Este Haim, Danielle Haim, Alana Haim, and Ashley Avignone.

"Happy belated Independence Day," Swift captioned Instagram photos from her annual coastal bash, "from your local neighborhood independent girlies."

Little did Swift know that the same day would become a turning point in her love story. As she prepared to head to Kansas City for two shows at Arrowhead Stadium, Kelce was getting ready to shoot his shot, friendship bracelet in hand.

And though things didn't go as planned for Kelce that day, the viral moment ended up making it onto Swift's radar, thanks in part to the singer's mom, Andrea Swift, who encouraged her daughter to give the football player a chance. The couple's love story kicked off not long after, unfolding in the public eye before culminating with an epic engagement that nearly broke the internet.

As for the couple's unusual wedding venue, while to some getting married inside Madison Square Garden seemed like an odd choice, for Taylor and Travis, it helped them achieve the level of privacy they sought throughout their high-profile relationship.

In addition to allowing the bride and groom to enter discreetly, MSG provided their A-list attendees access to a private loading area, away from the crowded streets of NYC, where they could be photographed. MSG's roof also protected the couple from any helicopters or drones trying to sneak a peek at their nuptials.

In addition to privacy, the venue can accommodate over 20,000 people, allowing Swift and Kelce to invite a practically unlimited guest list. And they put it to good use, with some of the star-studded attendees including the likes of Bradley Cooper, Gigi Hadid, Lena Dunham, Dakota Johnson, Ellie Goulding, Jenny Han, Ed Sheeran, Hugh Grant, Karlie Kloss, Kelsea Ballerini, and more, with friend, Adam Sandler, serving as the couple's officiant.

Still, the affair remained deeply personal, with both Taylor and Travis opting to forgo the traditional wedding party and have just their brothers by their side, with Austin Swift acting as Taylor's "Man of Honor" and Jason Kelce serving as Travis' Best Man.

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There's no better feeling than jumping into a pool on a hot summer day. If you plan on hosting some outdoor pool parties this season, Walmart's latest decor find is an easy way to brighten up your yard, so you can extend the fun well into the evening. The Tanbaby Solar Pool Lights are a smart and practical way to add some ambient lighting to your pool, and they're currently on sale for 50% off.  

For a limited time, you can snag a one-piece set at $20, down from $40, or a two-piece set at $30, down from $60. Each light comes with a solar panel that charges up via sunlight during the day and turns on automatically after dark, giving off a gorgeous soft glow that looks stunning at night. Once fully charged, they'll provide eight to 12 hours of illumination.  

Tanbaby Solar Pool Lights, $20 (was $40) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Designed to create a warm, cozy atmosphere, these solar lights will help illuminate your outdoor space for all your summer hangouts. Each round light features 16 LED beads, providing ample lighting underwater without flickering or glaring. Choose between 16 different red, green, or blue color options, 10 brightness settings, and four dynamic modes using the included remote. You can also set a timer at two-, four-, and six-hour intervals.    

Featuring an IP68 waterproof rating and an integrated seal design, the Tanbaby solar pool lights are designed to remain fully immersed in water without staining or corrosion. Installation is also super simple. The lights stick securely to all pool walls and surfaces — no drilling or wiring required. You can use them in medium and large inground pools, above-ground pools, ponds, fountains, and more.  

Multiple Walmart shoppers praised these solar pool lights for their overall look. One reviewer said they're " bright" and "easy to set up," while another said they' "look amazing at night." Others highlighted their superior quality, calling them durable and "long-lasting." 

Related: Walmart's $80 Portable Misting Fan Is 'Strong,' Powerful, and 'Fantastic for Hot Summer Days'

Parade commerce writer Ashley Jones, who has been shopping for pool lights for her home for several months, agreed on the value of this solar option, calling them a "viable" and "cost-effective" lighting solution — especially when compared to the thousands of dollars she was quoted for a professional installation of electric lights.  

Shop More Deals

• Egeh Solar Outdoor Lights, $26 (was $100) at Walmart
• Beatineon Outdoor String Lights, $21 (was $25) at Walmart
• Szrsth Outdoor Solar Light, $21 (was $66) at Walmart

If you want a pretty and functional way to brighten up your summer nights that won't break the bank, these highly rated solar pool lights are a great option that require minimal setup. Grab them for 50% off before this flash deal ends at Walmart.  

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.

Down, the heavy metal band fronted by iconic vocalist Phil Anselmo, has further solidified its status in the industry after being recognized among the best supergroups of all time.

One of the defining acts of the '90s music scene, the band helped shape the signature "NOLA" metal sound. It was named by Revolver Magazine as one of the 12 greatest supergroups in heavy music history.

Joining fellow heavy hitters Audioslave, Temple of the Dog, Velvet Revolver, Them Crooked Vultures and others, Down was described as the "masters of Southern-fried riffage and swinging grooves."

Formed in the early '90s, the band featured established musicians from Pantera, Corrosion of Conformity, Crowbar and Eyehategod: Pepper Keenan, Kirk Windstein, Jimmy Bower, Pat Bruders and Anselmo, the iconic frontman, widely regarded as one of the most recognizable voices in heavy metal, helped create a different kind of music that blends stoner rock, doom metal and sludge metal while retaining the traditional Southern rock sound.

In 1995, the supergroup released its debut album, NOLA, a major nod to its hometown.

The debut album was a commercial success, peaking at No. 57 on the Billboard 200 and remaining on the chart for six consecutive weeks.

Phil Anselmo and guitarist and Pepper Keenan of Down perform on stage during the Hellfest Open Air Festival in 2022.

Aldara Zarraoa/Redferns

The 13-track album includes the breakthrough single "Stone the Crow" and songs the band wrote when it was starting out as a supergroup.

“We all got together in 1991 in our friends’ garage, and the first day we wrote ‘Temptation’s Wings,’ ‘Losing All’ and Bury Me In Smoke,’” drummer Jimmy Bower shared, as cited by Louder Sound.

Behind the huge success of the album, it appears that not everyone was happy about it, especially the band's management.

“I actually got a lot of flak from our management,” Anselmo mentioned, adding, “Like, ‘Why are you saving all these good songs for Down when you could save them for Pantera?’ Because Pantera didn’t write those songs! I didn’t even come up with the title Bury Me In Smoke! And if I’d written those songs for Pantera, they’d have been laughed out of the room! I never even presented them to Pantera.”

Despite this, the album was met with a mostly positive response, with many fans pleasantly surprised by the band's first project.

With a total of four full-length studio albums, Down is now gearing up for its Strap It Down North American Tour with Helmet and Spirit In The Room.

The upcoming tour will run from August to September, featuring 14 shows.

Related: '60s Rock Band, Disbanded After One Year, Ranked Among 'Best Supergroups' of All Time

Beth Dutton and Rip Wheeler may have survived Yellowstone, but Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser know the real challenge is just beginning.

During a press conference ahead of the Dutton Ranch season finale, the longtime co-stars reflected on carrying the weight of the franchise, why Beth and Rip's relationship continues to resonate with fans, and what excites them most about Season 2.

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What does it mean for you now to carry the weight of the Duttonverse, which has become such a force in television popular culture? 
Cole Hauser: I know the characters so well. I feel very confident in his skin. But there were challenges. You know, not having Taylor [Sheridan] there. For us to really kind of be able to work with these new writers, these new directors, these people. You know, everything had changed. The only kind of normality that we had whatsoever was Carter, Christina Voros, Kelly, and myself. So I enjoy a challenge. It certainly was a challenge. We worked our asses off this year. 

Kelly Reilly: I do feel the weight of it. I feel so proud of what we've accomplished on Yellowstone. And because there are so many fans of the show who really are invested over all these years, there is a responsibility to, you know, you don't want to get it this far and then mess it up. I didn't want to drop the ball. I really wanted to honor the world. I wanted to honor the soul of it and I feel it's a responsibility. Which I don't mind, as long as I'm shouldering it with Cole. We're such a team, him and I. We lean on each other. We ask each other advice. We're not doing this on our own. 

I think the first season will probably, I mean, touch wood, was the hardest one to get us out the gate. Then the second season, I know we already have ideas about where we want to take this, and know what we've got in our hands. But truly, the real word that came into my mind when you asked that question was, it's an honor. It's an honor to be working. It's an honor to be an actor in a show that people have such true love and investment in. I'm very proud of it. 

What's the secret to the Beth and Rip relationship?
Reilly: They're each other's only love. They loved each other when they were 15. They've never loved another person. They are each other's other half and so, in a strange way, it almost feels like it's a love story, like, out of another time and there's a romance about them. He is one side of the coin and she is the other.

Cole and I love one another, you know. We were given six years, seasons, of Yellowstone written by Taylor Sheridan, and he loved writing for Beth and Rip.  And he created such a love story from these fierce characters. But when they're with one another, you get to see their heart. So, that was the gift, and we're just trying to protect it now and expand on it. We know what they're capable of together and individually, and we've just got to remember that sweetness. She's so vulnerable with him and he's vulnerable with her. I think people love to see that.

Hauser: I can't put it any better, to be honest. The only thing I would say is that there's this really beautiful thing that I always tell myself. It's just love, honor and friendship. If you can have those three things, and I think that they have always done that for each other. They've always been there for each other in that way, and it's such a beautiful simplicity with a lot of complex things going on around them.

Related: Taylor Sheridan Reveals How Kevin Costner’s Character Was Originally Meant to Exit ‘Yellowstone’

Would either of you like to have a ranch of your own?  If so, where and what type of ranch would it be?
Reilly: I have a little bit of land in England and one day in my future when I'm not busy leaving it all the time and I can be there to really look after it, I want to have a place with animals where I'm not handing it over to somebody else to look after. I want to do it myself.  So, my dream in a little while is to fill that with some horses and a little vineyard. But it's certainly not a ranch. It's a field with some horses and donkeys in it and maybe some goats. The idea of taking on a huge amount of land and that being alive is a full commitment. I don't have that desire for it, and I don't have that capacity for it. But, yes, we'll cut my field and mate my horses and sit in the stables with them and, yeah, grow my wine. That sounds perfect.

Hauser: It's Montana. I've had family there since the 1880s. I think it feels like home. I was fortunate enough, obviously, to work there and have an office in the most beautiful place in the Bitterroot Valley. I won't say exactly where in Montana but I got my eye on a place up there and I'm just an animal freak too, and my daughter is. We talk about having all kinds of different animals, you know, and 10 dogs. It just becomes about feeding them every day and walking around and just having a simple life. I think, as far as America's concerned, the most beautiful, heavenly place is Montana.

How did you welcome Annette Bening to the Dutton universe? Is there an initiation tradition?
Reilly: God no. I mean, it's Annette Bening. She is the initiation. She's a powerhouse, a force. One of the most beautiful actresses I've ever gotten to work with. Such a kind, fun, warm person. I think Cole and I really lucked out with having some heavyweights come join us in our little spin-off show. They made it legit, quite honestly and her and Ed Harris, especially going into Season 2, it's the four of us. We share our show with them and we're in their world.

Annette Bening is so playful. She is constantly just coming up with new things.  She's an acting animal in the best way possible and you gotta be on your toes. You gotta be prepared and ready, and it's exciting and thrilling. In my very first scene with her, I was nervous and I fluffed my lines and my first take. And I was like, aw, man, I've dropped the ball. You know, I need to hold my own. But she was nervous too. So, once we'd gotten the first few takes out of the way, we went at it and it was like, ugh, I can't wait to work with her again.

Related: ‘Dutton Ranch’ Season 1 Finale Ending Explained: That Brutal Death and Shocking Kidnapping

Given the events of the first season, what do you hope to see for your characters in Season 2?
Hauser: Well, we have some work to do, you know and I think we all know what that is: getting our child back is key in the beginning. I'm really excited about this new kind of adventure with Ben (Cavell, Dutton Ranch's new showrunner). I love what Chad (Feehan, Season 1 showrunner) did and he brought a different kind of game to this year. With Ben, I'm looking forward to getting to know him. For him getting to know me, the character. To spend some time with him and really just pick his brain, you know and not come in with any ideas of what I want. I want to hear what he thinks, you know.

We've had an amazing conversation, Kelly and I, with him, and he's a lovely human being. I have friends that have worked with him for six, seven years at a time for S.E.A.L Team. So, I got to know a little bit of how he communicates, how he works. It's just gonna be refreshing for Kelly and I, I hope. I look forward to it, and I don't want to put any preconceived notions of what I want. I want him to be able to speak his truth, his mind, and go from there.

Reilly: I think Cole and I both have a competitive spirit. We want to deliver real high-quality entertainment. I think Season 2, it's almost like right now, let's go.  Now we've done the hard job of Season 1 of beginning it and getting through that, sort of, birth moment of the show. Now, we can really get in there and get into some character work. That's what I'm interested in, is like, getting back to the characters and exploring something and blowing it up even more. And let's make it even better.

I think we've all got some ideas about how we want to do that, because the passion we have for the show and what it could be and what it means to us. This is not just a job. We really have cared about it, and why would we stop now? So, it's a privilege and it's exciting.  So, yeah, Season 2, can't wait.

Related: 'Dutton Ranch' Season 2 Is Officially Happening: What's Next for Beth and Rip on Paramount+

An Atlantis cruise sailing across the Mediterranean was denied entry to Turkey by the Erdogan regime on the grounds that the majority of the passengers are LGBTQIA+. Broadway icon Pattie LuPone, one of the star performers booked for the cruise, broke the news in an enraged Instagram post on July 2, a few days ahead of the ship’s departure. 

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“The Atlantis cruise I am performing on next week has been banned from entering Turkey. A ship—a magnificent ship full of gay men. And me. Denied entry to Turkey simply because of who is on board. I am furious, but I am sailing, as the ship will make other ports of call.”

The cruise, which departs from Athens on July 5, originally promised stops in Mykonos and Santorini in Greece, Kuşadası and Istanbul in Turkey, Dubrovnik and Zadar in Croatia, and finally Venice, Italy. Rich Campbell, the long-time president and CEO of Atlantis Events, told CNN that the cruise will replace the Turkish ports with stops in Cairo, Egypt and Crete, Greece.

Campbell also told CNN that this is the first time in the company’s history that it was “actively told we may not berth here because of who we are.” Atlantis Events was founded in 1991 as a charter company that contracts the use of ships and resorts owned by other operators for cruises and other vacation offerings catering to the LGBTQIA+ community.

BASIN AÇIKLAMASI

Basın yayın organları ve sosyal medya platformlarında gündeme gelen, toplumumuzun yapısıyla ve ahlaki değerlerimizle örtüşmeyen davranışlarıyla bilinen gruplarca kiralanan bir kruvaziyer gemisinin 7 Temmuz 2026 tarihinde Aydın Kuşadası Limanınına planlamış… pic.twitter.com/MHqN0NoXHI

— T.C. Aydın Valiliği (@AydinValiligi) June 28, 2026

The Governorship Of Aydın, Turkey posted to its X account that “The planned cruise ship event scheduled for July 7, 2026, at the Aydın Kuşadası Port, organized by groups known for their behavior that is incompatible with the structure and moral values ​​of our society and which has caused great unease among various segments of our society, has been cancelled.”

One passenger sailing with Virgin on a similar itinerary through the Greek isles with stops in Kuşadası and Istanbul posted on Reddit to share CNN’s coverage of the incident, writing, “The irony is that I’m currently on Scarlet Lady now and we just visited these [cities in Turkey]. And there’s a sizable gay contingent on this boat (including me). I guess we slipped under the radar. This, my friends, is why we still need a Pride month.”

Related: Everything You Need To Know About Pride 2026 To Celebrate the LGBTQ+ Communities

Indeed, President Errdogan’s government has recently cracked down on the queer community through digital bans and possible renewal of criminal and civil penalties. In June, a Turkish court banned nine queer dating apps in the country. That same month, dozens of X accounts belonging to LGBTQIA+ advocacy organizations were blocked by the Turkish government. In October, 2025 legislation was introduced that would recriminalize not only homosexuality and gender-affirming health care, but also LGBTQIA+ advocacy organizations and even the coverage of queer and trans stories by journalists.

Turkish officials were careful to stay cordial with the broader cruise industry in their press release on X, writing, “Cruise tourism, which holds a significant place in our city's tourism and in which Kuşadası district holds a leading position in our country, continues as the residents and tourism businesses of our city have been accustomed to for years.”

Related: Your Dream Cruise Vacation, Based on Your Birth Month

That may not be enough to keep tourists flowing into Turkish ports of call, however. Although Kuşadası was one of the country’s busiest destinations for cruise ships in 2025. That was before the Iran war disrupted global travel, particularly in the Southwest Asia and North Africa (SWANA) region and the Mediterranean. In May, Princess Cruises announced it would remove Istanbul from its Mediterranean itineraries for 2027, swapping Turkey for Trieste. 

The U.S. State Department currently has a Level 2 travel advisory posted for Turkey, recommending travelers “exercise increased caution,” indicating the country “contains areas with higher security risk”—namely Turkey’s shared borders with Syria and Iraq.

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Patti LuPone isn’t the only one who’s outraged by Turkey’s refusal to welcome the Scarlet Lady and her passengers, of course. The Kaos Gay and Lesbian Cultural Research and Solidarity Association (KaosGL), active since 1994, posted a statement to Instagram, “We've been here for centuries. And we are the citizens of this country. You can stop a ship. You can ban an event. You can block a walk. But you can't ban people from existing.”

Related: MSC Cruises Just Banned a Major Hidden Travel Surcharge for Summer 2026

It was around 76℉ the afternoon of July 4, 1776, after the Continental Congress officially adopted the Declaration of Independence. 250 years later, the temperature was hovering around 98.1℉ when the Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C.paused its celebration of the country’s semiquincentennial anniversary mid-afternoon due to record-breaking, life-threatening heat indexes.

⚠️ Due to the heat, and in coordination with public safety officials, the Great American State Fair will be temporarily closed until 5:00 p.m. today.

The safety and well-being of our guests, volunteers, performers, vendors, and staff is our highest priority. Conditions are… pic.twitter.com/HV12RiMbu9

— Freedom 250 (@Freedom250) July 3, 2026

“Due to the heat, and in coordination with public safety officials, the Great American State Fair will be temporarily closed until 5:00 p.m. today,” read an announcement posted to the official organizer Freedom 250’s X account. “The safety and well-being of our guests, volunteers, performers, vendors, and staff is our highest priority. Conditions are expected to improve later this afternoon, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back at 5:00 p.m. as preparations continue for this evening’s festivities.”

Related: This Powerful $15 Portable Fan Is My Top Must-Have for Surviving Summer Heat Waves

An intense, persistent heat dome broke numerous records on the East Coast this week, with new highs set in New Jersey, New York, Maryland, Delaware, Massachusetts, and Washington, D.C. Temperatures fell to just 84℉ overnight in the District, offering little relief ahead of the festivities on the National Mall. 

Members of a CNN news crew told viewers it was too hot for some of their equipment to operate correctly. Meteorologists measured a 20-degree difference between sun and shade and ground temperatures equivalent to the internal heat of a medium-rare steak. Over two dozen fairgoers were treated for heat-related ailments by D.C. Fire and EMS, including several reports of people passing out due to heat stroke. By 5 p.m., when the Fair was due to reopen, temperatures still hovered over 100℉.

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The crowd-dampening conditions are just the latest in a string of setbacks for the Great American State Fair. Private sponsors were criticized for including images of the Confederate flag in the official North Carolina state booth. Numerous musicians originally billed for the event declined to perform. Dancers were nearly hit by a falling piece of scenery on one of the stages during a rehearsal. One man was arrested and charged with “lewd, indecent, or obscene acts” after making female acrobats feel unsafe and uncomfortable during a performance. 

Related: Why Did Young MC, Morris Day, and C+C Music Factory Back Out of the Freedom 250 Great American State Fair?

All those incidents are on top of reportedly big upcharges for concessions and small crowds that were just a fraction of the attendance President Trump claimed– and a far cry from the millions who attended Bicentennial events in New York and D.C. in 1976.

Tonight, President Trump is scheduled to speak in Keystone, South Dakotaat Mount Rushmore before returning to Washington D.C. on July 4. He will deliver a speech ahead of a multi-million-dollar fireworks show featuring 850,000 sparklers launched from the Lincoln Memorial, where the flawed renovation of the reflecting pool has been causing its own problems. The record-breaking fireworks display is so large that some experts say it could impact air quality in the District. 

Programming at the Great American State Fair continues beyond the Fourth of July, continuing through Friday, July 10. It remains to be seen how many spectators will brave the predicted evening temperatures in the upper 90’s for the Presidential address and festivities, or ongoing heat indices that will push near triple digits for the next 10 days at least.