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The backyard is officially set for summer. The grill is going, birds are circling the feeder, flowers are blooming in their planters, and everything feels exactly how it should this time of year. You’re stretched out in a lounge chair, drink in hand, soaking up the sun you waited all winter for. But even with everything in place, it can feel like something is missing. Or more accurately, someone. 

If your cat has been parked by the window, watching it all happen from the other side of the glass — tail flicking, ears perked, clearly wishing they were part of it — it might be time to bring them into the setup, too. Enter the Specstar 2-in-1 Outdoor Cat Enclosure at Walmart. Normally $60, it is now marked down 37% to just $38, making it an easy, budget-friendly way for feline friends to safely explore your yard, deck, or patio.

Specstar 2-in-1 Outdoor Cat Enclosure, $38 (was $60) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

With a camping tent-like look, this enclosure combines a cozy hexagonal room with an extended tunnel to create a connected space for lounging and exercise. The tent measures about 25.2 by 17.7 inches, giving cats a shaded, enclosed spot to relax, while the long tunnel stretches over 10 feet, offering room to roam, stretch, and stay active. 

This enclosure's layout is spacious enough for multiple cats or small pets, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, or ferrets. Secure zippers and reinforced panels keep pets safely inside, while multiple access points make it easy to interact, feed, or let pets in and out. Thoughtful extras like a mint batting ball give cats something to chase and swat while they’re inside, adding a built-in layer of play, while the included leash offers an extra level of security for supervised outdoor time, helping keep curious explorers safely within reach.

Made from dense mesh fabric and reinforced Oxford cloth, the materials resist scratching while maintaining airflow, helping keep pets cool and comfortable outside. The pop-up design allows for quick setup, and six included ground stakes help anchor it in place for added stability. Weighing just under three pounds, it folds down into a compact carrying bag, making it simple to store or take along for use in the backyard, at the park, or on trips.

Pet parents shared their thoughts on this “durable” enclosure that gives felines a chance to “enjoy life outside,” with many noting their cats are completely “enamored with it.” One shopper wrote, “For the price, this is amazing. It has plenty of room for two cats, three if they all behave and like each other.”

Shop More Deals

• Kitty City Outdoor Cat Enclosure, $66 (was $100) at Walmart
• Bifanuo Outdoor Cat House, $44 (was $75) at Walmart
• Aimuun Portable Pet Playpen, $20 (was $22) at Walmart

Related: Walmart Has a 'Purrfect Catio' on Sale for $155 That Lets Indoor Cats 'Enjoy the Sunshine and Breeze'

For curious kitties and sunny days, the $38 Specstar 2-in-1 Outdoor Cat Enclosure just makes sense. Add it to your Walmart cart meow, before this 37% off deal ends!

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Today's NYT Strands puzzle should not be a struggle, and with a little bit of luck, you won't get stuck. 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 #831 on Friday, June 11.

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: "Something to talk about."

A hint for today's Strands game: Students may wrangle with these when writing assignments.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

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

• HO
• BO
• PO
• TO
• PR
• CO
• PA (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

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

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for June 12

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Friday, June 12, 2026, isPARTSOFSPEECH.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Friday, June 12?

• HOOK
• BODY
• POINT
• TOPIC
• PROBLEM
• CONCLUSION
• SPANGRAM: PARTSOFSPEECH

Related: Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Thursday, June 11, 2026

For fans of 2000s alt-rock darlings Weezer, it's nearly impossible to imagine the band's 2001 self-titled record, commonly known as Weezer (Green Album), without the hit "Island in the Sun." Yet the track nearly didn't make the cut.

Thanks to former The Cars frontman Ric Ocasek, who produced the album, "Island in the Sun" was saved from the cutting-room floor and went on to become one of the band's most enduring songs.

Ric Ocasek Fought to Keep "Island in the Sun" on the Album @umgcatalog

@weezer didn't want “Island in the Sun” on the album. The Cars’ Ric Ocasek and Spike Jonze had other plans.

♬ Island In The Sun - Weezer

When Weezer were finishing the record, the band reportedly viewed "Island in the Sun" as less representative of its sound, instead favoring songs like "Hash Pipe." Ocasek, however, strongly believed in the song and pushed for it to be included on the album.

Ocasek, best known as the leader of The Cars, was a longtime collaborator with Weezer and recognized something special about "Island in the Sun." When the band didn't share his vision of the song's potential, he fought for its inclusion on the album.

His instincts proved correct. "Island in the Sun" became one of Weezer's most successful tracks and remains one of the band's defining recordings.

The song went on to become one of Weezer's biggest international hits, a staple of radio and streaming playlists, and the most licensed song in the band's catalog, appearing regularly in commercials, films, and television shows.

Related: John Fogerty, 81, Leaves Taylor Swift Beaming During a Performance of 'Proud Mary'

How Spike Jonze Helped Turn the Song Into a Cultural Phenomenon

"Island in the Sun" also became part of the cultural zeitgeist thanks to filmmaker Spike Jonze.

The song's first music video was directed by Marcos Siega and featured the band performing at a Mexican wedding celebration. However, a second video was later created, this time directed by Jonze, who had previously helmed videos for Weezer, the Beastie Boys, and R.E.M. before moving into filmmaking with projects such as Being John Malkovich.

The Animal-Filled Music Video Fans Still Remember

The Spike Jonze-directed video for "Island in the Sun" became nearly as famous as the song itself. Instead of the wedding setting featured in the original version, the band was shown interacting with various animals on a hillside near Los Angeles.

The animal-themed video became one of the most recognizable music videos of the era and perfectly captured the song's laid-back, sunny atmosphere.

"Island in the Sun" Became One of Weezer's Signature Songs

"Island in the Sun" went on to become one of the defining songs of the early 2000s and remains the track most closely associated with Weezer for many fans.

Had it not been for Ric Ocasek's belief in the song and Spike Jonze's memorable visual treatment, "Island in the Sun" might never have reached audiences at all. Instead, it became one of Weezer's most beloved hits and a lasting staple of alternative rock.

Related: 1966 Hit Album, Recorded Totally in Secret, Became One of the Most Influential in Music History

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Some of Today's NYT Connections puzzle deals directly with a specific class of vehicle. 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 #1097 onFriday, June 12, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Friday, June 12, 2026 / New York Times

New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Friday'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 Friday, June 12

1. Magic phrases.
2. A colony of ants is one.
3. Say it again.
4. The Mississippi or the Amazon.

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 Friday, June 12:

1. STARTING WITH INCANTATIONS: CHARM BRACELET, CURSE WORD, HEX KEY, SPELL CHECKER
2. STARTING WITH ANIMAL GROUP NAMES: MURDER MYSTERY, PACK RAT, PRIDE ROCK, SCHOOL DAYS
3. STARTING WITH SYNONYMS FOR "REPEAT": COPY EDITOR, ECHO PARK, MIRROR SELFIE, QUOTE UNQUOTE
4. STARTING WITH PARTS OFA RIVER: BANK TELLER, BED HEAD, DELTA AIRLINES, MOUTH GAURD

How'd you do?

Up Next:

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

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

Related: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Thursday, June 11, 2026

Burnt by the Sun, the heavy metal and mathcore band, is making a long-awaited return.

Resurrecting from a 15-year-long hiatus, the band fronted by Mike Olender is making a major comeback with exciting news.

After months of speculation, the band, composed of guitarist John Adubato, bassist Ted Patterson, drummer Dave Witte and Olender, announced plans for upcoming reunion performances with a special surprise.

In an exclusive interview with Decibel magazine, Burnt by the Sun revealed that a heartbreaking loss ultimately led them to a long-awaited reunion.

The band reconnected following the passing of Ted Patterson’s father in late 2025.

“Talking over text and everything is great, but all of us sitting down, talking, rehashing old memories when the Old Man was out with Burnt really moved it forward for us,” as mentioned by Patterson.

Not only did the band confirm a reunion, but also expanded their lineup with one additional member.

Burnt by the Sun has officially welcomed Mastodon co-founder Bill Kelliher as their second guitarist.

William Kelliher of Mastodon at Alcatraz Metal Fest on Aug. 8, 2025, in Kortrijk, Belgium.

Elsie Roymans/Getty Images

“The icing on the cake for us is bringing Bill into the fold,” the lead vocalist shared. “Bill is a longtime friend and our early years mirrored Mastodon’s, having shared the stage many times in the early 2000s. Bill was actually part of that initial creative spark that led to BBTS getting formed. Back in the late ’90s, Bill and John were writing together, some of which became BBTS’s first recorded material, and so for him to be part of this new chapter of the band is a reconnection to our roots and love for this kind of creative expression.”

With all the major changes and the second wind brought on by the reunion, Patterson expressed his excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead.

“I’m getting another chance to make some noise with some of the best people in my life,” he said, adding, “I love these guys.”

Although there is no solid lineup yet for upcoming performances following their reunion, they are planning to focus on writing new music and creating new material for fans.

Formed in 1999 in New Jersey, Witte and Adubato decided to launch a band that would focus on the underground music scene.

The lineup was filled when Olender officially joined as the vocalist, while Patterson secured the spot as the band’s bassist.

Years later, Burnt by the Sun found its footing in the music scene, with its breakthrough being the release of their full-length album, Soundtrack to the Personal Revolution.

In 2002, "Dracula With Glasses," "Boston Tea-Bag Party," and "Shooter McGavin" and more solidified the band as pioneers of the early 2000s metallic hardcore scene.

It was in 2009 that the rock metal band released their final album Heart of Darkness, before officially disbanding due to personal issues, priorities and the heavy demands of touring.

Related: ’90s Heavy Metal Band Releases Dates for 2026 Tour

Today's NYT Wordle answer will have you feeling a little on edge. 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 #1819 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 no double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle?

Synonyms for today's Wordle include 'shatter' and 'fracture'.

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 #1819 on Friday, June 12, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Friday, June 12, 2026, is BREAK.

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

Related: Today’s Wordle Hint, Answers for #1818 on Thursday, June 11, 2026

More than five decades after launching one of music's most celebrated careers, Carly Simon is returning with her first new studio album of original material in nearly two decades.

In a statement, the singer-songwriter, 82, announced that Comes In Waves will be released on Aug. 14, marking her first album of newly written songs since 2008.

The 12-track collection was written and recorded primarily at Simon's studio on Martha's Vineyard and features a mix of brand-new compositions and revisited works from earlier in her career.

To accompany the announcement, Simon released the album's lead single, "Howl," a deeply personal song that explores anger, betrayal, forgiveness and emotional healing.

"'Howl' lives in that space between betrayal and forgiveness, where anger has to be voiced before it can be released," Simon said in the statement.

"It's about letting the frustration out so it doesn't sit and simmer. The song begins in anger, but it moves toward forgiveness, and speaks to any situation where trust has been broken."

The new project finds Simon revisiting many of the themes that have defined her songwriting throughout her career, including love, family, memory, self-reflection and resilience. According to the singer, the album's title was inspired by the song "Slowly," which uses the rhythm of ocean tides as a metaphor for life's emotional highs and lows.

"Love, grief, anger, memory, creativity and healing all arrive in waves," Simon explained through the album's concept.

The record also includes contributions from several longtime collaborators and family members. Simon's son, Ben Taylor, appears throughout the project as a singer, songwriter, producer and musician, while her daughter, Sally Taylor, contributed vocals and created the artwork for the lead single.

Among the album's collaborators is John Forté, whose appearance on the project comes following his death earlier this year. Legendary producer Paul Samwell-Smith also returned to revisit and rework "Share The End," a song he originally produced for Simon's landmark 1971 album Anticipation.

Comes In Waves arrives Aug. 14.

Carly Simon's 'Comes In Waves' Track List

1. "Howl"
2. "Maybe I Never Loved You"
3. "Peaches"
4. "Love Has No Ending"
5. "Mother Of Pearl"
6. "Slowly"
7. "Four In The Morning"
8. "The More I Look For You"
9. "Love The Way I Do"
10. "The Father Daughter Dance"
11. "Share the End"
12. "Do It Anyway"

Related: Three Months After Her Death, This Country Compilation Touched Millions

Former Dancing With the Stars host Tom Bergeron is sharing a behind-the-scenes secret from his years on the hit competition series.

Ironically, the most anticipated events of the season weren't happening on the ballroom floor.

During a recent appearance on Danielle Fishel'spodcast, Bergeron, 71, recalled a tradition he started while hosting the long-running ABC show. Each season, he would throw a party for the cast, crew, and staff, giving everyone involved in the production a chance to unwind and connect outside of work.

But there was one important rule.

"No plus-ones allowed," Bergeron explained.

The television personality said the gatherings were designed specifically for the people working on the show. With so many departments involved in putting together a live television production, he wanted to create an opportunity for team members who might not normally interact to spend time together.

"I would throw a party—which I think they still do—mid-season for the staff, cast and crew," Bergeron said. "So it would just be different departments that might not otherwise mingle during the course of the season, because it's a big machine to put that show on the air."

The strategy apparently worked.

According to Bergeron, the parties became memorable enough that he would spend the following days hearing stories about what happened after everyone let loose.

"They would all get to mingle," he recalled. "And later in the week, I would get the benefit of hearing about hangovers and hookups."

Bergeron added that the gatherings were worth every penny.

"It was great, money well spent," he joked.

The revelation offers a rare glimpse into the off-camera culture of Dancing With the Stars, which has been a television staple since 2005. While viewers see the glamour, rehearsals and live performances each week, Bergeron's story highlights the massive team working behind the scenes to make the show happen.

Bergeron served as host of Dancing With the Stars for 28 seasons, becoming one of the most recognizable faces associated with the franchise. During that time, he developed a reputation for his quick wit, easy rapport with contestants, and ability to keep the often-chaotic live broadcasts moving smoothly.

Though he's no longer at the helm of the ballroom competition, stories like this continue to give fans a peek behind the curtain and suggest that some of the most entertaining drama may have taken place long after the cameras stopped rolling.

Related: 'DWTS' EP Responds to Tom Bergeron’s Big On-Air Request Ahead of Finale

Timothée Chalamet has once again become the internet’s topic of discussion.

From his 18-minute satirical Zoom call promoting Marty Supreme to his not-so-positive comments on ballet and opera, Chalamet has been the center of Instagram’s attention for a while. Now, the internet is in an uproar over his new ad campaign with Kalshi.

Chalamet’s ad was posted on Instagram today, simply captioned, “KALSHI.” The ad shows him at a dentist’s office, a music store, and in a gaming room, jumping up and down and hitting his head on the ceiling.

View this post on Instagram

Kalshi is a federally regulated prediction market, and according to The New York Times, it’s legal nationwide “because it’s classified as a financial trading platform, not a gambling service.” However, with some still viewing it as gambling, many commenters on Chalamet’s post condemned him for promoting the service.

“Gambling is a poison,” one user commented. “Way to add to the problem.”

“Cmon bruh not kalshi this ain’t you big bro,” one comment said.

Another pointed back to Chalamet’s 2017 film, asking, “How do we go from Call Me By Your Nameto this bro?”

However, others didn’t mind Chalamet promoting the trading platform. One user said, “Not sure what everyone is going on about. Lots of people advertise alcohol so what's the difference with this? Nobody is forcing anyone to become addicted to betting or alcohol!!”

While this is the first time Chalamet has publicly promoted a trading service, it’s not the first time he’s been part of an ad campaign. Last year, Chalamet starred in a commercial for Cash App, which gained over 14 million views on YouTube. It gained positive fan reactions, with many applauding Chalamet for the commercial’s creativity.

Watch Chalamet’s Kalshi ad here.

Aerosmithis still having a moment on the Billboard music charts.

Even several decades after putting out some of their most recognizable songs, the legendary rock band continues to rise on the charts, and they're even moving their way up the Top 10 on the Top Hard Rock Albums chart.

According to new standings released by Billboard for the week of June 13, Aerosmith's Greatest Hits album has now reached the No. 8 spot on the Top Hard Rock Albums chart, moving up from last week's position at No. 9.

The Greatest Hits album was initially released in August 2023. It's a deluxe version of the band's 1980 compilation album Aerosmith's Greatest Hits, which featured 10 tracks in total, including the group's signature hits from the '70s, like "Dream On" and "Walk This Way."

View this post on Instagram

But the 2023 compilation features even more songs, including a number of hits released during Aerosmith's historic comeback in the '80s, like "Dude (Looks Like a Lady)" and "Angel." It also features later career hits for the band like "I Don't Want To Miss a Thing," which came out in 1998 as the theme for the film Armageddon.

2023's Greatest Hits has spent a total of 146 weeks on the chart, peaking at No. 1 shortly after its release. It also reached No. 4 on the Top Rock Albums chart and debuted on the Billboard 200 at No. 36.

As for the group's 1980 compilation album, that record didn't reach its peak position on the Billboard 200 until 2013 when it landed it at No. 43. In 2012, it was also certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), signifying 1 million units sold.

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Related: Rock Legend Just Made a Surprise Announcement About a Classic 1986 Hit

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If your dream backyard includes raised garden beds, stacked firewood, and a little farmhouse-style shed tucked off to the side, Amazon has a deal worth seeing. The Aoxun Outdoor Storage Shed is on sale right now with the best deal on the 6-by-10-foot version with storage side space, marked down to $330 from $500. There’s also a larger 8-by-12-foot version for $400, down from $550, along with other styles available if you want a different setup.

It has a two-in-one design with an enclosed shed on one side and an open covered bay on the other, which gives you separate spots for lawn equipment, firewood, bikes, and garden gear. The shed also has a versatile brown metal design, convenient lockable doors, a sloped roof, windows, and two built-in vents. 

Aoxun Outdoor Storage Shed, $330 (was $500) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

The brown-and-cream color palette, barn-style double doors, and covered side bay give the shed more of a garden-style look than something used solely for storage. The enclosed section can hold bulkier items like a lawnmower, power tools, patio cushions, and seasonal bins, while the open-side bay keeps the items you grab most often covered but easy to reach. 

One person called the integrated firewood storage design “an absolute game-changer,” noting that the material is “incredibly durable” and the windows are “a great touch for letting in natural light.” Another said it offers “great storage space” and is “sturdy enough for everyday use,” while a different shopper called the shed “an absolute steal.”

Related: Walmart’s 'Sturdy and Secure' $159 Outdoor Storage Shed Has 'Plenty of Room' for Tools, Bikes, and More

There are so many ways to use the extra storage space. The side bay could hold stacked firewood or even a grill, while the enclosed section can handle larger items you don’t want sitting out in the yard. You could also turn part of the inside into a small gardening station with shelves for gloves, seed packets, planters, and tools, so it feels more like a hidden cottage garden than a cluttered shed.

Shop More Deals

• Keter Manor Resin Outdoor Storage Shed, $430 (was $599) at Amazon
• Dwvo Metal Outdoor Storage Shed, $97 (was $130) at Amazon
• Patiomore Vented Backyard Garden Storage Shed, $200 (was $260) at Amazon

If your outdoor space needs more storage but you don’t want to add an eyesore to your backyard, the Aoxun Outdoor Storage Shed is a great find. At under $350, the two-in-one design gives you enclosed storage and a covered side bay, which you don’t see often. Be sure to snag yours on Amazon before the sale price goes back up and summer is in full swing.

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John Fogerty, 81, has a fan in Taylor Swift.

The '70s folk-rock legend was one of the celebrated honorees at the 2026 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala on Thursday, June 11, in New York City. The Creedence Clearwater Revival frontman was honored with the Johnny Mercer Award for his lasting impact on American music and songwriting.

John Fogerty Performs "Proud Mary" With His Sons @people

Dance partners for life. 💃🕺 #TaylorSwift #TravisKelce

♬ original sound - People Magazine

Fogerty took the stage, accompanied by his musician sons, Shane Fogerty and Tyler Fogerty, for a performance of his classic 1969 hit "Proud Mary," a song that has remained one of the most enduring and recognizable anthems in rock history since its release with CCR.

While Fogerty's performance was a highlight of the gala, it was pop star Taylor Swift and fiancé Travis Kelce's reaction from the audience that ultimately stole the show.

John Fogerty is one of the most prolific and celebrated songwriters of the 1960s and 1970s, known for legendary anthems including "Proud Mary," "Fortunate Son," and "Have You Ever Seen the Rain."

While Fogerty performed "Proud Mary," which was originally recorded by CCR and later made famous by Tina Turner, the energized crowd rose to its feet, led by Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, dancing and singing along to the timeless hit.

Related: 1969 Hit Just Named John Fogerty’s Best Song of All Time

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's Reaction Steals the Show

Swift could be seen enthusiastically dancing and singing along as Fogerty performed and treating him to a rousing ovation as he accepted his award.

Fogerty's appearance underscored his enduring popularity and influence on generations of artists. His extensive songwriting catalog has left an indelible mark on popular music, making him a revered figure for songwriters like Swift.

Swift herself, who received the Hal David Starlight Award in 2010, was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame this year, making her the first Starlight Award recipient to advance to full membership status in the organization.

Steven Spielberg Captures a Memorable Moment @amberg4207

“I had a plan, and that plan was - I outlived all those sons of bitches, and I got my music back!!!” - John Fogerty in his Songwriters Hall of Fame Speech *Taylor and Travis cheer* ❤️

♬ original sound - Amber(Taylor’s Version)🫶🏻

In addition to Swift and Fogerty, musicians Brandi Carlile, Steve Miller, and the Goo Goo Dolls' Johnny Rzeznik were also on hand for the evening's festivities.

Despite all the star power in the room, it was Swift's joyful reaction to John Fogerty's performance that captured the evening's spirit. Her unfiltered enthusiasm for another music icon was so sweet, it even caught film director Steven Spielberg's attention.

The legendary filmmaker was seated next to Swift and broke out his iPhone to film her reaction to Fogerty's "Proud Mary" performance.

That's definitely a Steven Spielberg movie every Swiftie would like to see.

Related: '70s Rock Legend Shares Haunting Meaning Behind 'Have You Ever Seen the Rain?'

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Joanna Gaines is bringing a sweet new treat to grocery store freezers.

The Magnolia founder has expanded her popular food line with a collection of frozen desserts now arriving at H-E-B stores across Texas. The new offerings give fans another way to bring a taste of Gaines' signature style home, this time in the form of indulgent frozen treats perfect for summer.

View this post on Instagram

"Exciting news from the freezer aisle, Texans! @magnoliatable frozen baked goods are now @heb—available in-store, curbside or delivery," the former HGTV star announced via Instagram, calling it a "dream come true."

The baked goods — including Silo Cookies, Classic Cinnamon Rolls, Jo's Buttermilk Biscuits, Chocolate Chip Cookies, Classic Sugar Cookies, and Banana Bread — are available in the freezer section at over 250 H-E-B and Central Market locations.

Fans flocked to the comments section to share in Joanna's excitement.

"This is perfect timing. I’m about to put a curbside order in tomorrow," one follower wrote.

"Going to HEB for the chocolate chip," another Texas shared.

"I bought the frozen chocolate chip cookies…..Omg! So much deliciousness! The vanilla and sea salt really stand out! A lil pricey but omg! Girl you nailed it!!" a third noted.

While H-E-B is exclusive to Texas, Gaines fans across the country can pick up the frozen treats at Target.

The Fixer Upper alum announced the expansion of her collaboration with Target in October 2025.

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I just moved into a bigger apartment, which means I'm in need of a lot more furniture on a tight budget. That's why I've been turning to retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart. The online stores offer incredible discounts on highly-rated items, including exclusives that you legitimately can't get anywhere else. Walmart holds Drew Barrymore's collection, and the Beautiful Drew Bar Cabinet happens to be 54% off right now.

The piece originally cost $247, but has been reduced to just $114 during a limited-time rollback deal. The cabinet is available in two colors: black and thyme (which is essentially a blue-green hue). It's 18 inches long, 38 inches wide, and 46.25 inches tall, so make sure to keep those measurements in mind as you plan out your home layout. It can support up to 100 pounds and weighs 139.3 pounds, so you'll definitely need some help maneuvering it. 

Beautiful Drew Bar Cabinet by Drew Barrymore, $114 (was $247) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The design features two lower cabinet doors and a drawer tucked in the bottom portion of the space for ample storage. The X-shaped partition in the lower half is for bottles, and there's an adjustable shelf separating the compartment next to it so that you can organize your items accordingly. There's even an integrated wine glass rack that allows you to store your stemware in an area that's easy to reach. 

The upper cabinet has sliding doors that you can store items like cocktail shakers or more wine bottles in. It's made with solid wood (a mix of medium density fiberboard and particle board) and finished with gold handles that will add some elegance to your space. The Scandinavian decor style has fluted fronts to incorporate texture. Over 25 shoppers already have this cabinet in their carts, with several describing it as "fantastic," "gorgeous," "perfect," "absolutely beautiful," and "high-quality."

Related: Walmart's 'Wonderfully Made' $18 Maxi Skirt Is 'Stylish,' 'Lightweight,' and So 'Versatile' for Summer

You will have to assemble the piece upon arrival, but shoppers said that it wasn't difficult to put together. Customers love that it even comes with a touch up pen if any unwanted scuffs arise throughout use, which is particularly helpful if you order the green color, since it's not as common. You can easily create a sleek little bar area in your home with this cabinet! 

Shop More Deals

• Yokila Wood Grain Rustic Table Lamp Set, $56 (was $66) at Walmart 
• UVN Summer Dress, $15 (was $30) at Walmart
• TLSunny Outdoor Patio Dining Set, $266 (was $410) at Walmart 

Whether you just moved or are looking for a furniture upgrade, this bar cabinet is the answer. It's the ideal place to store all of your favorite beer, wines, liquors, and glassware, at a fraction of the cost. Shop this stunning bar cabinet now at Walmart for 54% off! 

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.

Summer just got a nostalgic twist.

Mini Melts introduced a new beaded ice cream on Thursday built around the sweet milk left at the bottom of a cereal bowl. The flavor, called Fruity Cereal Crunch, is the brand's first cereal milk creation. It pairs creamy frozen beads with crunchy fruity cereal flakes, chasing that last colorful spoonful most people grew up with. Mini Melts says the launch taps into one of food's biggest nostalgia trends.

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A Flavor Built on Childhood Memory

Mini Melts CEO Ilana Fischer said in a statement that cereal milk "instantly connects people to childhood memories." It is the brand's first time building a flavor around it, pulling the comfort of a Saturday morning into a frozen treat.

For anyone new to the format, Mini Melts are tiny, colorful beads of ice cream served in a cup rather than a scoop, a novelty the company has built its name on since 2004. The beads are flash-frozen at 40 degrees below zero and made with a 14 percent butterfat recipe.

Related: Blue Bunny Announces Major Changes to 2 of Its Most Popular Ice Cream Treats

Where To Find It

Fruity Cereal Crunch is rolling out to more than 35,000 locations nationwide, including 7-Eleven, CVS and Walgreens, plus family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums, go-kart tracks and travel centers. The push follows a recent partnership with The Magnum Ice Cream Company to widen distribution, and it lands amid a summer full of new ice cream flavors.

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Mini Melts is also running a sweepstakes tied to the launch through July 18, giving fans a window to track down a cup before summer ends.

Next: Nothing Bundt Cakes Gets Patriotic With Summer Desserts Featuring Its No. 1-Selling Flavor

For decades, Phil Ehart has been the stabilizing force in the band Kansas.

A co-founder and the band’s manager, he’s as engrained in the progressive rock outfit as “Dust in the Wind” is in our collective memory. But it’s taken more than 50 years to really learn about the man behind the drum kit. 

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Released this year, I Am Phil explores Ehart’s life in full, from his family and faith, to his 50 years touring the world with one of the greatest rock bands of all time. And like every brilliant memoir, it’s full of revelations, with visceral stories of The Doors, Janis Joplin, and Jerry Garcia filling the pages. The most shocking, however, might be Ehart’s brush with death in February 2024. 

In an interview with Ultimate Classic Rock, the drummer shared that writing about his health scare was particularly difficult for his wife, Laurie. 

“I almost died right in front of her,” he shared. “It wasn’t anything we expected. It wasn’t like I was showing any symptoms. I’d always been in such good shape, I’d played my drums earlier that day, had exercised by walking the golf course, and the band had been playing 50th Anniversary Tour shows two days before.”

He added that he hadn’t experienced any chest pains, but “when I felt like I’d been shot in the back and my back muscles and shoulder hurt, luckily, Laurie called the ambulance immediately. … I was fortunate to survive.”

Beyond the health revelation, Ehart shared that the early incarnation of Kansas was part of The Doors’ final concert, Janis Joplin told him to never give up, and an encounter with Jerry Garcia was recounted in The Grateful Dead’s “Truckin’.”

When asked what prompted him to share his story now, Ehart said the driving force was a desire to leave a record of his life for his children, which ultimately pushed him to begin writing.

"Being on the road, playing in the band, and managing the band, I never had the time to sit down and look back on my life," he said. "In doing this, I realized it can be difficult to reflect on one’s life, especially when you are starting from the beginning."

Per the outlet, Ehart’s memoir is “the kind of insider’s account that will be illuminating for fans, and for any wayward sons (and daughters) who have carried on with Kansas for its 50-plus years.”

I Am Phil is available at philehart.net.

Related: ’70s Folk Rock Legend Stuns With Moving Performance of 1966 Timeless Ode to Home

A new footwear drop at Costco is catching the attention of shoppers who care about comfort as much as they do about style. The retailer has added a pair of max-cushion sneakers designed to support long days on your feet, whether you are running errands, walking for exercise, or just looking for a more comfortable everyday shoe.

Costco is now carrying Saucony Women's Hurricane 25, a cushioned running shoe that focuses on softness, stability and all-day wear. Costco is offering the shoes online only in green or white shoe colors for $119.99, which is significantly lower than the roughly $170 price tag at many other retailers. Sizes range from 6 to 10, and the listing notes that availability may vary.

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Built for Comfort From the Ground Up

Costco

At first glance, the Hurricane 25 looks like a typical modern running sneaker, but its design is centered around cushioning and support. The shoe features a mesh upper that keeps things lightweight and breathable, while a heavily cushioned midsole provides a soft, springy feel underfoot.

Saucony designed this model with maximum cushioning in mind, prioritizing comfort over speed. The midsole uses a dual-density foam system that combines a soft, responsive layer with a more supportive base. This setup helps reduce foot fatigue during long periods of walking or running.

Related: Shoppers Are Reliving the '80s With Costco's Retro Party Essential

A Costco Deal on a High-End Running Favorite

Outside of Costco, the Hurricane 25 has earned a strong reputation among runners and everyday wearers. Many users praise it as a reliable daily shoe that works well for long walks, recovery days and anyone who spends hours on their feet. Some also say it helps reduce foot fatigue thanks to its thick cushioning and stable platform.

The shoe is considered a "max-cushion" trainer, meaning it has a thicker stack of foam underfoot than traditional sneakers. That extra cushioning can feel soft and bouncy, though some runners note that it may feel heavier or less agile than lighter performance models.

Even with those trade-offs, it remains a popular choice for people who prioritize comfort and support. Reviews often mention its stability, plush feel and ability to work well with orthotics.

For Costco shoppers, the appeal is simple. The retailer is offering a well-known premium running shoe at a lower-than-usual price point, making it an attractive option for anyone looking to upgrade their everyday sneakers before summer travel, walks, or workouts ramp up.

Related: Costco Is Selling Classic Organic Cotton Tees for Just $11

With their gripping storylines and usually action-packed sequences, it's unsurprising that the thriller genre tends to produce widely popular films. The publication Collider recently highlighted some of the top-grossing and acclaimed movies from the stress-inducing genre by releasing a list of "the 5 most perfect blockbuster thriller movies."

The ranking featured films like 1993's The Fugitive and Die Hard, released in 1988, with the 1975 movie Jaws coming in at the top spot. According to Collider, Jaws, which grossed $261,300,121 worldwide per Box Office Mojo, not only tells a compelling, intense story involving a deadly shark and a terrorized beach town, but is also an extremely influential film.

Steven Spielberg Shared Details About Filming 'Jaws'

The director of Jaws,Steven Spielberg, shared some details about shooting the movie, based on Peter Benchley's 1974 book, in Martha's Vineyard in 1974 while filming the introduction for the 2025 documentaryJaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story. The famed director noted that making the movie wasn't exactly smooth sailing. He said that the film's cast and crew were only supposed to be out in Martha's Vineyard for a few weeks in May and June. However, they "did not wrap on Martha's Vineyard until the end of September." In addition, he said the film was "over budget and over schedule," causing Spielberg, who was 27 during the making of Jaws, to feel "over [his] head."

"That summer of 1974 was a bad dream before it ever became the dream of a lifetime," said Spielberg.

He said that he "truly believed that Jaws would be the last movie [he] would ever be given to direct" because of the issues that arose while shooting, specifically involving the famously temperamental mechanical shark. He said, however, that the success of the film allowed him to continue his career.

"Thankfully, a life preserver was thrown to me, and that preserver was thrown to me by audiences all over the world, beginning right here, with the very first audience who saw Jaws in Martha's Vineyard," said Spielberg.

Today's NYT Mini Crossword puzzle answers are a little all over the place, but one of them will definitely activate your sweet tooth while another will remind you of grade school. 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 on for Today's Mini Crossword on Friday, June 12, 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 Friday, June 12, 2026

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

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: Vertical post in a doorframe — HINT: Ends with the letter "B"

5 Across: What "E" stands for in the musical mnemonic EGBDF —HINT: Ends with the letter "Y"

7 Across: 6:7, e.g. — HINT: Starts with the letter "R"

8 Across: Rap or tap — HINT: Ends with the letter "K"

9 Across: Quick puff on a joint — HINT: Starts with the letter "T"

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

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Kind of seasoning for Jamaican-style chicken — HINT: Starts with the letter "J"

2 Down: ___-garde — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

3 Down: That makes two of us — HINT: Starts with the letter "M"

4 Down: Badly missed jump shot, in hoops slang — HINT: Ends with the letter "K"

6 Down: Oxen's harness — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Friday, June 12, 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: Vertical post in a doorframe — JAMB

5 Across: What "E" stands for in the musical mnemonic EGBDF —EVERY

7 Across: 6:7, e.g. — RATIO

8 Across: Rap or tap — KNOCK

9 Across: Quick puff on a joint — TOKE

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Kind of seasoning for Jamaican-style chicken — JERK

2 Down: ___-garde — AVANT

3 Down: That makes two of us — METOO

4 Down: Badly missed jump shot, in hoops slang — BRICK

6 Down: Oxen's harness — YOKE

Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Today, Thursday, June 11, 2026

Shinedown, the chart-topping rock band, secured another milestone on Billboard.

The quartet, fronted by Brent Smith with drummer Barry Kerch, Zach Myers on lead guitar and Eric Bass on bass, added another first to its long list of achievements following the release of its album EI8HT on May 29.

The "Second Chance" hitmaker showed no signs of slowing down after scoring its first No. 1 on Billboard's Hot Hard Rock Songs chart with the track "Young Again."

Shinedown garnered more than 1.3 million streams and attracted more than 183,000 listeners on the radio following its debut.

Written by Smith and Bass, the song showcases a different musical direction, captivating listeners with its summer-jam nostalgia and pop-rock anthem sound while delivering emotional depth and compelling storytelling through its lyrics.

The frontman described the track as a reflection on living in a simpler era before technology and being present in the moment.

"When we wrote it, the entire embodiment of the song is about nostalgia," he told Jesse Modz of HeartRadio Canada. "That song is such a reflection of simpler times."

Brent Smith and Zach Myers of Shinedown perform onstage at Bunnie XO- Stripped Down: Unfiltered and Unapologetic Tour in Nashville.

John Shearer/Getty Images

Smith also spoke about the influence of The Goonies and Stranger Things on their songwriting, particularly with "Young Again."

Shinedown currently holds the record for the most No. 1 songs in the history of Billboard's Mainstream Rock Airplay chart.

Over more than two decades in their music career, the band has earned 23 No. 1 singles.

1. "Save Me" (2005)
2. "Devour" (2008)
3. "Second Chance" (2009)
4. "Sound of Madness" (2009)
5. "The Crow & the Butterfly" (2010)
6. "Diamond Eyes (Boom-Lay Boom-Lay Boom)" (2011)
7. "Bully" (2012)
8. "Unity" (2012)
9. "Cut the Cord" (2015)
10. "State of My Head" (2016)
11. "How Did You Love" (2017)
12. "Devil" (2018)
13. "Get Up" (2018)
14. "Monsters" (2019)
15. "Attention Attention" (2020)
16. "Atlas Falls" (2020)
17. "Planet Zero" (2022)
18. "Daylight" (2023)
19. "A Symptom of Being Human" (2023)
20. "Dance, Kid, Dance" (2025)
21. "Killing Fields" (2025)
22. "Searchlight" (2026)
23. "Safe and Sound" (2026)

Shinedown’s Dance, Kid, Dance Act II Tour

Apart from achieving chart-topping hits, Shinedown has embarked on tours across 11 countries.

The Dance, Kid, Dance Act II Tour, which kicked off in May, is scheduled to visit major cities in Europe, North America, the United Kingdom and more before concluding in November.

Joining them are Coheed and Cambria, Black Stone Cherry, From Ashes To New, Those Damn Crows and DJ Rockfeed as special guests on selected dates.

Related: Legendary ’60s Rock Band Announces Exclusive Collaboration