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Ditch the stress of having to match your outfits by opting for seasonal one-pieces. Some of our favorite styles, that are both easy to wear and fashionable, are jumpsuits, dresses, and rompers. Thanks to Walmart, you can shop all three for considerably less than highly-priced designer pieces. This Anygrew Romper is the latest find on our shopping wishlist, and it's currently 33% off at the retailer.

The romper originally cost $15, but has been reduced to as low as $10 in beige, and the leaf green, black rectangle, and stars patterns. The piece is being sold in 20 total hues and patterns, spanning from a bright yellow for a bold pop of color to a classic black that's perfectly minimalist for everyday wear. Prices range from $10 up to $14, but only during a limited-time flash deal, so you'll want to act fast. 

Anygrew Romper, From $10 (was $15) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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It comes in sizes S to 2XL. It's advised in the product description to choose one size smaller if you'd like it to be more form-fitting. If you rather the "super stretchy" romper offer more of a relaxed fit, then opt for your usual size. The design features short sleeves, a traditional crew neck, and two deep pockets for your phone and other small accessories. 

Anygrew Romper, From $10 (was $15) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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There's a V-neck at the back, which makes the romper unique, with the shorts falling in the mid-upper thigh. The most exciting part of this piece is that it's reversible, which shoppers say is "like getting two looks in one." Another customer wrote that it's an ideal clothing item for a busy mom, because it's "easy," "comfortable," and still makes you "look put together." 

The shopper added that "it's truly a morning-to-night staple." Other reviewers described the piece as "effortlessly flattering," "pretty," "trendy," and "chic." The fabric, which consists of 95% polyester and 5% spandex, is "super soft" and "lightweight," making it the perfect summer staple. The romper is machine washable, just make sure to do so according to the care instruction label. 

Shop More Deals 

• Apsvo Silver-Plated Tennis Bracelet, $13 (was $110) at Walmart
• Fantaslook Capri Pants, $15 (was $28) at Walmart
• Fossil Raquel Two-Tone Stainless Steel Watch, $107 (was $195) at Walmart

One shopper said that they will "definitely be living" in this romper all summer long, and we're pretty certain you will too. Some even added multiple colors into their cart while this Walmart deal is still hot. Treat yourself to this adorable $10 romper before the price goes back up! 

Related: Walmart’s ‘Super Cute’ Raffia Mary Jane Flats Are a Budget-Friendly Coastal Grandmother Staple

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Few songs in rock history have sparked as much debate as Starship's 1985 hit "We Built This City." 

The track reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, topped charts in several countries, and helped launch Starship into a new era. Yet decades later, it also earned an entirely different reputation after being labeled the "worst song of all time" by major publications and readers' polls.

Released on Aug. 26, 1985, as the lead single from Starship's debut album Knee Deep in the Hoopla, "We Built This City" became an instant commercial success. It climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for two weeks and later reached the top spot in Australia and Canada while landing inside the Top 10 in several European countries.

American hard rock band Starship posed for a group portrait in Los Angeles, California, in February 1980.

Photo by Bonnie Schiffman/Getty Images

The song also marked one of Starship's biggest career milestones. The band, which emerged from the legal and musical transition of Jefferson Starship, would later score two more Billboard No. 1 hits with "Sara" and "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now."

Despite its chart dominance, the song's legacy has remained deeply divided.

"We Built This City" was written by Martin Page and Bernie Taupin, with Dennis Lambert and Peter Wolf also receiving songwriting credits. According to Taupin and Page, the original version was written as a response to the decline of live music clubs in Los Angeles during the early 1980s.

Taupin later explained that the original demo had a much darker tone before producer Peter Wolf reshaped it into the polished pop-rock version that audiences came to know.

Although inspired by Los Angeles, the final recording shifted its focus to San Francisco, the hometown closely linked to Starship and its predecessors, Jefferson Airplane and Jefferson Starship. During the bridge, former MTV executive and DJ Les Garland provided the radio-style voiceover that became one of the song's signature moments.

When it debuted, industry publications welcomed the single.

Billboard described it as an "unusual rock 'n' roll anthem" that was "as wise as it is rebellious."

Cash Box praised it as "an ear-catching tune" with "dance rock with sharp hooks."

The song also earned a Grammy Award nomination for Best Rock Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group in 1986, further highlighting its early industry recognition.

Starship's album Knee Deep in the Hoopla went platinum and produced another Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 with "Sara," making it one of the band's most commercially successful releases.

As the years passed, public opinion shifted.

In 2004, Blender magazine ranked "We Built This City" No. 1 on its list of the "50 Worst Songs Ever." Editor Craig Marks explained the decision by saying, "It purports to be anti-commercial but reeks of '80s corporate-rock commercialism. It's a real reflection of what practically killed rock music in the '80s."

The criticism continued in 2011, when a Rolling Stone readers poll voted "We Built This City" the worst song of the 1980s by a wide margin.

In 2016, GQ went even further, calling it the "worst song of all time" and publishing an oral history that explored the song's success and the backlash surrounding it.

Despite those criticisms, "We Built This City" has never disappeared from popular culture.

The song continues to receive radio airplay, appears in commercials, and remains one of the most recognizable rock singles of the 1980s. In 2018, British creator LadBaby even adapted it into the charity single "We Built This City on Sausage Rolls," which reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart.

More than four decades after its release, "We Built This City" remains one of rock music's biggest contradictions.

Related: 1983 Rock Song, Lasting Nearly 12 Minutes, Is Still a Powerful Hit 43 Years Later

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Sometimes the best home upgrades are the ones that require almost zero effort. Whether it’s an affordable price point, a piece with minimal assembly required or something that instantly elevates your space, it’s always satisfying when you can bring a simple idea to life.

That’s where Marshalls comes in, with plenty of affordable finds that can transform your home with minimal effort. Our favorite pick this week? The Karma Home 2-Pack Rope Table Lamps Set, a charming home accent that brings a splash of coastal charm to any room. At just $35, it’s an easy way to refresh your space with a stylish yet practical upgrade, without the hassle of heavy lifting or spending hours putting furniture together.

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Karma Home 2-Pack Rope Table Lamps Set, $34.99 at Marshalls Karma Home 2-Pack Rope Table Lamps Set

Marshalls

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With summer in full swing, you might have already started your seasonal refresh, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for another addition. And if you haven’t committed to a specific theme just yet, let the Karma Home 2-Pack Rope Table Lamps Set lead you in a dreamy, coastal direction.

Featuring a cool blue hue paired with white accents to form a floral-like lampshade and a textured rope base, each lamp fits seamlessly with a coastal-inspired aesthetic, bringing a breezy, beachside feel to your bedroom, living room, nightstand or entryway. Best of all, the $35 price tag is about $15 cheaper than what you’ll find at other stores, making snatching them up at Marshalls now an absolute no-brainer.

Related: Target's Sleek New $10 Organizer Is a Dorm Room Must-Have

Lamp set, lights on

Marshalls

Endless Styling Potential

As for their overall footprint, each lamp stands 12 inches tall with a 6-inch diameter lampshade, making them fairly compact while still large enough to make a statement. They’re also ETL listed, meaning they’ve been tested to meet strict safety standards for everyday use, and support bulbs up to 40 watts. Plus, with a 5-foot cord attached, you have plenty of flexibility when placing them around the house.

Whether you’re pulling together a whimsical lighthouse theme, adding a cool coastal feel to a reading nook or simply adding an stylish accent to your home office, these lamps make it easy to bring your visions to life. Just make sure you snag a set sooner than later, so you don’t risk missing out when they sell out. 

While you’re at it, keep an eye out for Marshalls’ 3-Tier Foldable Cart With Drawer and 4-Drawer Accent Chest for even more home upgrade inspiration.

Related: Aldi's $20 Cottagecore Comforter Adds Cozy Vibes to Any Bedroom

The fidget craze has introduced shoppers to countless oddly satisfying toys over the years, but NeeDoh has quickly become one of the biggest names in the space. What started as a simple squishy sensory toy quickly turned into a viral sensation, one that kids and adults alike have turned to for its unique texture, vibrant colors and satisfyingly squeezable design.

Unfortunately for fans, NeeDoh products can sometimes be hard to come by, with limited availability at select retailers and inventory often selling out before shoppers can get their hands on one. That’s why fans should make plans to visit their local Lidl store on Monday, Aug. 3, when fresh stock of the NeeDoh Color Changing Cube will be hitting shelves for a limited time only.

NeeDoh Color Changing Cube, $4.99 at Lidl NeeDoh Color Changing Cube

Lidl

Retailing for just $4.99 and available from Aug. 3 through 27, the NeeDoh Color Changing Cube comes from Schylling, the creators behind the popular lineup of satisfying sensory toys. This groovy glob also happens to be the original color-changing NeeDoh, transforming a 2.5 inch colorful cube into a fidget toy you can squish, pull, squeeze and smush to your heart’s content.

What sets the NeeDoh Color Changing Cube apart from the rest of the lineup is its unique color-changing design. Unlike traditional NeeDoh toys, this version adds a visual twist by revealing a vibrant blend of colors with every squish and squeeze, creating a new fidget experience each time you play.

Related: Sam’s Club Is Selling an 825-Piece Lego Build Inspired by a Hit Animated Movie

Squishing a Needoh cube

Lidl

What to Expect From the NeeDoh Color Changing Cube

As for the colors arriving at Lidl come Aug. 3, combinations typically include pink to purple, yellow to orange and blue to pink, but it’s not clear yet if new variations will be part of this drop. You can, however, expect the same design as previous releases, with each NeeDoh cube filled with a non-toxic, dough-like compound that’s durable and designed to return to its original shape after every squeeze.

Meant to help satisfy and soothe those with anxious tendencies, it also helps promote focus, attention and centering of the mind whether you’re at school, at home, in the office or on the road. Ideal for ages 3 and up, it’s the perfect $5 gift for the kids in your family, as well as a fun pocket-sized accessory to help keep your hands busy throughout the day.

Don’t miss out on this limited release, and if you can, grab a couple so you’re prepared the next time they sell out. While you’re at it, check out the new Lego Ideas The X-Files Set for even more interactive ways to keep yourself entertained.

Related: Aldi’s Stylish $15 Gadget Looks Just Like a Popular Apple Device Nearly 37x the Price

When Steve Harley wrote "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)," he wasn't trying to craft a hit single.

Instead, the 1975 song was born out of frustration following the dramatic breakup of Cockney Rebel's original lineup. What began as Harley's response to one of the most turbulent moments of his career ultimately became the band's signature song and a chart-topping classic.

The inspiration came after the group's internal collapse.

Tensions within the band came to a head following the success of The Psychomodo. By early 1974, Harley had parted ways with the other original members of Cockney Rebel and assembled an entirely new lineup. Rather than dwell on the split privately, he channeled his emotions into "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)," writing lyrics that addressed betrayal, disappointment, and moving on with unmistakable confidence.

"We split up because they wanted to to take my leadership away," Harley explained years later. "They wanted to dilute it and 'Make Me Smile' is saying 'Come back one day and I'll laugh.' It was arrogant but I knew they were wrong - they didn't understand the group like I did."

Although the words carried a sharp edge, the music told a different story.

Built around an upbeat acoustic guitar rhythm, soaring violin, and an unforgettable chorus, the song masked its pointed lyrics beneath one of the most joyful melodies of the decade. That contrast helped make it instantly memorable, allowing listeners to embrace it as both a breakup anthem and an infectious singalong.

"One good thing came out of [the split] – 'Make Me Smile,'" Harley told Louder. "It's a good song. It's my pension – it's the truth, and I don’t mind owning up these days. So, 'Make Me Smile' came out of it, and it isn’t the sweet pop song everyone thinks it is, it's quite dark actually."

Released in February 1975, Harley's vulnerability paid off.

"Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)" climbed to No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart, where it spent two weeks at the top, becoming Harley's biggest commercial success. It remains his only chart-topping single and has continued to rank among the most enduring British hits of the 1970s.

"When we played the finished track to the boss of EMI, he said: 'F***. No 1!'" Harley told The Guardian. "In the third week after release, it topped the charts. We were in Los Angeles when we got the news and we all jumped in the hotel swimming pool – fully clothed."

The song's popularity has never faded.

Over the decades, it has appeared in films, television shows, commercials, and sporting events, introducing new generations to Harley's unmistakable voice and songwriting. It has also become a staple of classic rock radio, with its instantly recognizable opening guitar figure remaining one of the era's most familiar hooks.

More than 50 years after its release, "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)" continues to stand as Steve Harley's defining achievement. What he wrote in the aftermath of a painful band split became a No. 1 hit and one of Britain's most beloved classic rock songs, a reminder that sometimes the best response to adversity is simply to write a great song.

Related: 1970 Classic Rock Song, Written by an 18-Year-Old, Became an International Hit

Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle involves team identifiers, basketball shorthand, hockey moves and a the seventh letter of the alphabet. Get excited—there's another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you're looking for some hints and answers for today's Connections Sports Edition on Thursday, July 30, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Thursday, July 30, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

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

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

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

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

Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on July 30, 2026

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

• Yellow: Associated with a sports team.
• Green: Think NBA shorthand.
• Blue: Slap shot.
• Purple: Think about the seventh letter.

Here Are Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories

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

• Yellow: A TEAM'S SYMBOL
• Green: NBA TEAMS, INFORMALLY
• Blue: HOCKEY STICK MANUFACTURERS
• Purple: WHAT "G" MIGHT MEAN

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

The answers to today's Connections Sports Edition #675 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• A TEAM'S SYMBOL: BADGE, CREST, EMBLEM, LOGO
• NBA TEAMS, INFORMALLY: CLIPS, GRIZZ, MAVS, WOLVES
• HOCKEY STICK MANUFACTURERS: BAUER, CCM, SHER-WOOD, WARRIOR
• WHAT "G" MIGHT MEAN: GAMES, GATORADE, GOALTENDER, GUARD

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

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

Related: NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Wednesday, July 29, 2026

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There's one shoe that has remained tried and true, and that's a pair of Crocs. Whether you're wearing them in sport mode or just out on the town, they're an extremely convenient style for those who are constantly on-the-go. If you're an avid Crocs fan, then you should know that we're currently adding the Crocs Saturday Sandal to our online cart, while they're 25% off. But wait — that's not even where the sale ends. 

Crocs is offering an exclusive flash sale that allows customers to buy two pairs of crocs, and take 40% off. All you have to do is use the promotional code CROCSBTS through July 31 to participate. This additional discount brings the original price of $40 down to just $18 in the light blue colorway. The other four available hues — black, white, tan, and off-white — will cost $24 each with the sale price. 

Crocs Saturday Sandal, From $18 (was $40) at Crocs

Courtesy of Crocs

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Should you choose not to purchase two pairs of the style, you will still be able to purchase these sandals for the discounted $30 price. The sizes range from 4 to 11, with shoppers saying that they feel slightly wide. Therefore, we recommend utilizing the available size chart in the product description to aid you in the buying process. Several colors and sizes are already out of stock, so you'll want to add them to your cart sooner rather than later. 

Crocs Saturday Sandal, From $18 (was $40) at Crocs

Courtesy of Crocs

Shop at Crocs

The footwear design features two-straps with adjustable buckles for your ultimate comfort. They're intended to be lightweight, easy to clean (you just have to wipe them with a soft damp cloth), and supportive for lasting wear. The insole consists of a foam footbed that encourages comfort around the entirety of the foot. 

Shoppers described the shoe as a "great everyday sandal" because they're "comfortable," "perfect for summer," and "super cute." Several reviewers even came back to the website to purchase multiple colors, which pairs perfectly with the exclusive discount. Wear the breathable style with everything from jeans to dresses for the ideal seasonal outfit. 

Shop More Deals 

• Classic Floral Cut-Out Clog, $40 (was $55) at Crocs
• Classic Retro Summer Clog, $40 (was $55) at Crocs
• Classic Crafted Vegan Suede Clog, $50 (was $70) at Crocs

If you want to personalize your Crocs, you can even add several Jibbitz Charms to the sandal straps. Or, you can keep them as is and they'll look just as stylish. Shop this epic footwear deal now, for as low as $18! 

Related: Crocs' 'Bouncy and Durable' Flip-Flops Massage Your Feet as You Walk, and They're Now $30

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Martika, whose real name is Marta Marrera, released many notable songs throughout her career. Take, for example, “Love… Thy Will Be Done” and “More Than You Know.” But perhaps no song left a bigger mark than “Toy Soldiers,” her signature anti-drug anthem.

“Toy Soldiers” is the second single from Martika’s self-titled debut album and features backing vocals from Stacy Ferguson, best known as Fergie of the Black Eyed Peas. Martika’s only U.S. chart-topper, the song climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in July of 1989.

RELATED: 1970 Classic, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Country Songs of All Time,’ Was Originally Rejected Before Becoming a Decade-Defining Hit

Famously sampled by Eminem for his 2004 hit, “Like Toy Soldiers,” Martika’s original remained at the top spot for two weeks before being replaced by Prince’s “Batdance” from the Batman soundtrack. 

Written by the singer alongside co-writer and producer Michael Jay, “Toy Soldiers” has long been mistaken for being a song about a breakup or a relationship. However, that is untrue, as Martika drew from real life, writing about a close friend’s battle with a cocaine addiction.

In an interview with Classic Pop, Martika, who began her career as an actress, starring in a show called Kids Incorporated, said the song struck a deeply personal chord with many of her listeners, who wrote to her about some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

“Suddenly, I was getting letters from mothers whose children had either committed suicide, had an overdose, or were in rehab,” Martika said. “Letters from people who played my song at their kid’s funeral. All about how it had impacted their lives and relationships.”

RELATED: 1970 Folk Rock Ballad, Never a No. 1 Hit, Remains a Timeless Classic 56 Years Later

Though Martika’s debut album and its No. 1 hit catapulted her to superstardom, she released one follow-up album, Martika’s Kitchen, before stepping away from the spotlight due to the pressures of fame.

“When Martika’s Kitchen came out, I had to do a whole tour of Europe and just couldn’t stomach doing two years of it,”  she said about stepping back from the musical spotlight at age 22 (though not permanently). “...There are certain artists that just have the key to their kingdom – they’re wired a different way – but I didn’t really understand what I was getting myself into and how to handle it. For me, it was just survival instincts. You either fight, or you run. I guess I just wasn’t trained to go in the ring and do the rounds.”

Related: 1988 No. 1 Hit, Written by a 17-Year-Old Singer, Became a Timeless Heartbreak Anthem

Folk legend Linda Perhacs has been found alive after being reported missing by close friends.

"She was found today. She's safe. We can't share where as it involves her HIPAA," the LAPD Missing Persons Unit told the Daily Mail on Wednesday, July 29.

The hopeful news comes just two days after her former manager Laurel Stearns, along with music video director Jessica Hundley, as well as musicians Julia Holter and Mark McNeill, pleaded with the public for help locating the artist.

"Linda Perhacs our dear friend and legendary singer-songwriter was discharged from a residential care facility approximately eight months ago under the supervision of her legal guardian," the group shared in a joint Instagram post on Monday. "Since then, friends and longtime collaborators have been unable to reach her and repeated attempts to contact her guardian have reportedly gone unanswered. Please help us locate Linda to ensure her wellbeing."

View this post on Instagram

The friends filed an official report with Adult Protective Services in Los Angeles County, according to a former co-producer, Fernando Perdomo.

Perhacs had not been seen in eight months, despite numerous attempts from friends to "establish direct contact," Daily Mail reported.

"Repeated attempts to communicate with her guardian have also, they say, gone unanswered," a statement shared with Entertainment Weekly read.

Perhacs' storied career began after she was discovered while working as a dental hygienist in Los Angeles. She released her first album, Parallelograms, in 1970. However, it failed to garner attention.

Nearly three decades later, and under a new record label, she reimagined and re-released the album in 1998. Her second album, The Soul of All Natural Things, followed in 2014, and her third, I'm in Harmony, was released in 2017.

Ella Langley, the country star behind the smash hit “You Look Like You Love Me,” continues her remarkable rise in the music industry with another significant achievement.

Along with other notable artists, the 27-year-old musician secured a major nod at the 57th Annual Dove Awards.

In celebration of the best in Christian and Gospel music, the Gospel Music Association (GMA) will host the annual event on Oct. 6 at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, where this year’s biggest artists will be recognized for their achievements.

Returning for his fourth consecutive year as host, eight-time Dove Award winner Tauren Wells will oversee the ceremony honoring excellence among top artists, songs and performances.

Langley, who has been dominating the charts and breaking records with her hits, was among the nominees for Country/Roots Song of the Year for her song “Speaking Terms” further cementing her status among the genre’s biggest rising stars.

Ella Langley at the Billboard Women in Music 2026.

Christopher Polk/Billboard via Getty Images

Joining the Alabama native in the category are “Black Sheep” by Ben Fuller, “Broken Man Can” by Scotty Inman, “Still Do” by Anne Wilson and Cole Swindell and “The Jesus I Know Now” by Brandon Lake and Lainey Wilson.

Released as part of her sophomore album, Dandelion, the song focuses on her relationship with God as she explores the challenges of faith, including feeling distant from God and moments of uncertainty.

View this post on Instagram

In a TikTok Live, Langley also revealed the reason she decided to record “Speaking Terms.”

According to her, it felt like God gave her a sign during an Uber ride that influenced her decision to record the song because it was originally on hold for another artist.

“Speaking Terms’ is the only song I’ve ever put out that is an outside cut,” she said, adding “I never felt worthy of that song. I thought it was a special one. My relationship with my faith was very different from what it looks like now.

Following the official release, the song made a successful debut on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 63 and reaching No. 22 on the Hot Country Songs chart.

As for her album, Dandelion, it is currently in the top four of the Billboard 200, with 15 tracks from the record appearing on the Billboard Hot 100.

On the other hand, the latest achievement came amid Langley’s The Dandelion Tour.

The massive headlining tour kicked off on May 7 in Toledo, Ohio and will conclude on Oct. 31 in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

Remaining Dates for Ella Langley’s The Dandelion Tour

July 30 — Gilford, N.H. @ BankNH Pavilion
July 31 — Canandaigua, N.Y. @ CMAC
Aug. 13 — Austin, Texas @ Moody Center
Aug. 14 — Corpus Christi, Texas @ Hilliard Center
Aug. 15 — Fort Worth, Texas @ Dickies Arena
Aug. 20 — Green Bay, WI @ The Resch Center
Aug. 21 — Springfield, IL @ Illinois State Fairgrounds
Aug. 22 — North Little Rock, AR @ Simmons Bank Arena
Aug. 28 — Auburn, AL @ Neville Arena
Aug. 29 — Auburn, AL @ Neville Arena
Sept. 10 — Newark, NJ @ Prudential Center
Sept. 11 — University Park, PA @ Bryce Jordan Center
Sept. 12 — Charleston, WV @ Charleston Coliseum
Sept. 17 — Oxford, MS @ SJB Pavilion
Sept. 18 — Athens, GA @ Akins Ford Arena
Sept. 19 — Jacksonville, FL @ Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena
Sept. 24 — Knoxville, TN @ Food City Center
Sept. 25 — Columbus, OH @ Schottenstein Center
Sept. 26 — Moline, IL @ Vibrant Arena at the Mark
Oct. 7 — Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Oct. 9 — Tulsa, OK @ BOK Center
Oct. 10 — Lubbock, TX @ United Supermarkets Arena
Oct. 13 — Los Angeles, CA @ Greek Theatre
Oct. 14 — Los Angeles, CA @ Greek Theatre
Oct. 29 — Des Moines, IA @ Casey’s Center
Oct. 30 — Lincoln, NE @ Pinnacle Bank Arena
Oct. 31 — Saint Paul, MN @ Grand Casino Arena

Related: Country Star, With No. 1 Hit Song, Surges on Billboard Chart

John Denver was known for songs about sunshine, mountains and the simple pleasures of life.

But in 1986, the singer-songwriter released one of his most politically pointed songs and soon found himself without a record deal.

The song was "Let Us Begin (What Are We Making Weapons For?)," an anti-war plea that questioned the cost of the arms race. It appeared on Denver’s 1986 album One World, his final studio album for RCA Records.

On July 30, 1986, RCA reportedly released Denver from his contract. The timing immediately raised eyebrows because RCA had recently been acquired by General Electric, a company with major military contracts.

That led to a question that has followed the song for decades: Did Denver lose his record deal because he released an anti-war song after RCA came under the ownership of a major defense contractor?

Denver's song was certainly controversial in its subject matter. In it, he asked why society continued to spend money on weapons while people went without basic necessities.

"Let Us Begin" had been inspired in part by Denver's experiences in the Soviet Union during the Cold War. He had been invited by the Soviet Union of Composers to perform there, and the trip prompted him to think about the possibility of improving relations between the United States and the Soviet Union.

Denver recorded the song with Soviet singer and songwriter Alexander Gradsky. The two also appeared together in the song's music video, which Denver's official website describes as the first time an American and Soviet artist performed together in a music video.

But the song wasn't simply about the Cold War.

Denver also connected the arms race to the struggles facing American farmers. The lyrics move between the perspective of an Oklahoma farmer, memories of war and a broader plea for peace.

The timing of the song's release made the situation especially interesting.

General Electric's purchase of RCA was completed in 1986, and GE had extensive military business. Contemporary reporting and later accounts connected that corporate change with Denver's departure from RCA, helping fuel speculation that the label didn't want to be associated with his anti-war message.

But there were other reasons for the split.

Denver and RCA had reportedly been experiencing problems before the label dropped him. His album One World also wasn't a commercial success. AllMusic notes that the album failed to make the charts, and RCA dropped Denver after 17 years with the label.

So while the sequence of events made the anti-war song look like an obvious culprit, there is no public record proving that GE ordered RCA to drop Denver because of "Let Us Begin."

The song nevertheless became an unusual footnote in Denver's career.

After leaving RCA, Denver continued releasing music through Windsong, the label he had founded. His next studio album, Higher Ground, arrived in 1988.

RELATED: The Gift Elvis Presley Gave to a 5-Year-Old Fan in 1974 Was Auctioned 15 Years Later

Today's NYT Strands puzzle explores professions known for making things by hand. 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 #879 on Thursday, July 30.

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: "Trade names"

If that doesn't help, here's a hint for today's Strands game: Skilled workers.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

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

• MA
• SM
• CO
• JO
• TA
• PO
• WE
• AR (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

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

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for July 30

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Thursday, July 30, 2026, isARTISANS.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Thursday, July 30?

• MASON
• SMITH
• COOPER
• JOINER
• TANNER
• POTTER
• WEAVER
• SPANGRAM: ARTISANS

Related: Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Wednesday, July 29, 2026

When Jen Hamilton first announced the end of her nearly 14-year marriage, she tearfully wished the future version of herself could tell her everything would be OK.

Now, six weeks later, the influencer is doing exactly that in a heartfelt new TikTok.

"I know that I'm doing the right thing, but it hurts so bad. I just want the healed version of myself to come and tell me that it's going to be OK," she said through tears in a video originally shared on June 15. "I need me in a year. I need me in five years [to tell me] that I made the right choice."

The Hamilton of today is in a very different place after learning that her ex, Brian Hamilton, was living a "double life."

@_jen_hamilton_

Talking to myself ❤️

♬ originalljud - Real Speak

"I'm not the one-year version of you. I'm not the five-year version of you, but I the six and a half week version of you," she told her previous self in a video shared via TikTok on Wednesday, July 18. "I'm here to tell you that you won't be feeling that forever. I do have some bad news though—I don't know if I should tell you this or not. It's about to get...like, whatever you're feeling right now in this moment, it's about to get so much worse than that."

She continued, "And I know that you are big sad girl right now, and that is very important to our process. What is about to happen is going to take you from big sad girl to 'what the f---' girl. And we do need some of that. You have no freaking clue what's about to happen to you."

The labor and delivery nurse previously spilled the traumatic details of her divorce, saying she's done "being people’s PR manager."

"I didn’t know about the affair before we signed papers. That came literally that night after signing papers," Hamilton explained, adding that she's dealing with the split as "a death."

“That’s what it feels like in my soul, because all the memories, all the tender moments—poof. I do not know this person. Truly," she said.

In a follow-up video, Jen hinted that Brian's "double life" was not his first slip up.

"I feel like I need to get out ahead of something. If anything ever comes out about other things this guy has done in my marriage," she chuckled. "Me now, my big strong girl. Me independent girl. Me back then? Me insecure girl. Me desperate girl. Me 'love me,' girl. Me purity culture girl. Me 'you're the only one I've ever been with,' girl. Me 'I forgive you,' girl. Me marriage is most important thing, girl. Me, I said vow for forever, girl. Me limitless forgiveness girl. I needed me now, back then."

The New York Times bestseller claimed she likely doesn't know everything Brian did throughout their marriage.

"It does not get better, you hear me? Them get sneakier," she warned others in her position. "I wish to God that I was strong enough to leave at the first situation. But looking back, I don't regret loving him as much as I did because I love really hard. I don't want that to change about me."

In the last few years, romantasy — the genre combining romance and fantasy — has absolutely exploded in popularity. Author Callie Hart has experienced this boom like no other with her Fae & Alchemy series, the sequel of which, Brimstone, was released in November of 2025. After the success of the first book, Quicksilver, it was no surprise when Brimstone was also a massive hit in the romantasy reader space.

Upon its release, Brimstone became an instant No. 1New York Times bestseller and sold an estimated 300,000 copies of its deluxe edition. Brimstone and Quicksilver combined have sold approximately three million copies worldwide.

Brimstone has remained extremely popular amongst readers and was ranked among the "Most Read Books of 2026" by the reader community platform, Goodreads. Ranked No. 25 on the list, Brimstone has been shelved by over 390,000 readers on the platform.

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Readers on Goodreads have praised Brimstone in reviews for being able to "fully suck them in" and having "the characters, the plot, the world, the romance EVERYTHING JUST LEVELED UP!!!!" which clearly has kept them hooked on the series.

In Brimstone, Saeris Fane has become the queen of the Blood Court and is now a Fae-vampire hybrid. Because of her transformation, Saeris is unable to return to her homeland, Zilvaren, which is now filled with the desert sun, uninhabitable to her. When her brother and ward need help in the desert realm, she sends Kingfisher and Carrion Swift in her place. Meanwhile in Yvelia, a magic-eating blight is spreading and threatening everyone around it. Saeris and Kingfisher must continue to work together to travel through the portals and find a cure while facing the gods.

Hart has stated that the Fae & Alchemy series will conclude with one final book in the trilogy. The book, whose title has yet to be revealed, is expected sometime next year in 2027.

Both Brimstone and its predecessor, Quicksilver, are out now and available wherever books are sold.

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Related: Best-Selling Romantasy Sequel Ranked No. 2 ‘Most Popular Romance Reads of 2026’ on Goodreads

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A stylish rug makes a pretty finishing touch for living rooms, kitchens, dining rooms, and entryways. If you've been looking for a gorgeous, soft option to help complete your space, Walmart has a new home decor find that you won't want to miss out on. The top-rated Safavieh Martha Stewart Vermont Floral Area Rug has an elegant floral design that adds a pop of personality to any space, and it's on sale for up to 71% off right now. 

Originally $142, the ivory and green rectangular style is now available for just $39 in the standard 4-by-6-foot size. Several other colors, including ivory-black, ivory-red, and ivory-navy, are available at varying prices. You can also shop it in four other sizes and two other shapes in select colors. 

Safavieh Martha Stewart Vermont Floral Area Rug, $39 (was $142) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Handcrafted with sturdy polyester yarn, this rug features a pretty floral pattern that catches the eye and adds a summery touch to any space. It has a shaggy 0.38-inch pile that's designed to feel soft and plush underfoot, with a rubber backing that helps keep the rug in place while also protecting floors from scratches or other damage.   

Related: Walmart's Beautiful Antique-Style 5-Drawer Dresser Adds Vintage Charm to Any Room

Made exclusively for indoor use, the rug can be used as an accent piece under a dining room table, in a living room, or even as hallway runner. It can also be layered on top of carpet with a rug pad in between. To keep it looking like new, the brand recommends vacuuming it regularly, spot cleaning it when needed, and rotating it every six months to avoid uneven wear-and-tear.  

Shop More Deals

• Newburos Area Rug, $40 (was $70) at Walmart
• Rugking Area Rug, $31 (was $43) at Walmart
• Sixhome Reversible Boho Outdoor Rug, $42 (was $96) at Walmart

If you've been looking for an easy way to spruce your space without breaking the bank, this Martha Stewart floral area rug is an excellent buy. The floral pattern looks charming in any home, and it comes in a variety of colors and sizes to best fit your needs. Grab one before this sale 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.

Today's New York Times Connections puzzle includes everything from admirable qualities and popular pastimes to familiar sayings and well-known ships.

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 #1145 onThursday, July 30, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Thursday, July 30, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Thursday'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 Thursday, July 30

1. Truthful and dependable.
2. Related to athletic gear.
3. A big ship
4. Spot on.

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 Thursday, July 30:

1. VIRTUOUS: FAIR, GOOD, JUST, RIGHT
2. ACTIVITIES WITH MULTIPLE BALLS: BEER PONG, BINGO, JUGGLING, POOL
3. CRUISE LINES: CARNIVAL, CELEBRITY, PRINCESS, VIKING
4. ON THE ___, TO MEAN "PRECISE": DOT, MARK, MONEY, NOSE

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, Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Today's NYT Wordle answer is the word for water flowing downhill through a channel or chute. But the day just isn't complete until I've solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword. If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1867 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

A hint for today's Wordle is: Theme park water ride.

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 #1867 on Thursday, July 30, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Thursday, July 30, 2026, is FLUME.

-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)

Nancy Guthrie's home remains vacant nearly six months after her disappearance. But subtle changes to the Tucson, Arizona, estate hint that neighbors are hoping to return to normalcy.

"This is what the house looks like now. This sort of wire chain in the front is relatively new. You can see there's a private property sign. No trespassing, no deliveries," reporter Brian Entin revealed in a video shared via YouTube on Thursday, July 29. "There's definitely a sense that the neighbors in the neighborhood don't really want people out here anymore. Sort of want everybody to move on."

He added that large rocks have been added to the area where reporters used to congregate.

"You can see they've still got cones out here blocking these rocks. That's kind of where we used to set up, actually where all those rocks are. They've put all those rocks there now. Those weren't there. So, you know, there's an effort to keep people kind of, uh away from the area," Entin shared.

One thing missing from outside Guthrie's home is the memorial that was once flooded with cards, flowers, and gifts.

"Remember where the memorial was, by the way. You guys remember when I was out here, there was like there was always flowers and candles and cards," he continued. "This whole area was full of stuff. It's all now been removed. Again, the neighbors, people in the neighborhood, have removed it. There's definitely a feeling here that they just kind of want to move on in the neighborhood."

Guthrie's Tucson home was once an active crime scene after the 84-year-old was reported missing on February 1. Today host Savannah Guthrie's mother was last seen on January 31 at a family dinner hosted by her daughter, Annie.

The Pima County Sheriff's Department, along with the FBI's Phoenix Division, uncovered previously lost footage from Nancy's front door camera in the days following her disappearance. Investigators are still searching for the masked, armed man seen tampering with the camera in the early morning hours of her abduction.

"Our family is in agony. We are in a nightmare that will not end," Savannah shared with her two million Instagram followers on Monday, July 27. "Nothing about our situation has changed...We have done our part. And we will never stop looking for her. We will always ache for her and feel that hole in our hearts."

Heavy metal fans continue to celebrate "Satan's Fall," the ambitious 11-minute-and-23-second track by Danish band Mercyful Fate, more than four decades after its debut on the band's 1983 album Melissa. 

Released at a time when radio-friendly songs dominated rock music, the epic composition has remained one of the most respected long-form tracks in heavy metal history because of its complex songwriting, relentless pace and lasting influence on future generations of metal musicians.

Clocking in at 11:23, "Satan's Fall" ranks among the notable rock and metal songs lasting more than 10 minute. Rather than relying on repeated sections, the song constantly introduces new musical ideas, making it stand out as one of the most challenging compositions from Mercyful Fate's early years.

King Diamond and members of Mercyful Fate join Metallica at day two of the bands' 30th Anniversary shows at the Fillmore on Dec. 7, 2011 in San Francisco, California.

Photo by Tim Mosenfelder/WireImage

Featured on Melissa, the band's debut studio album released in October 1983 through Roadrunner Records, "Satan's Fall" helped establish Mercyful Fate as one of the defining acts of the early extreme metal movement. 

Despite its lengthy runtime, "Satan's Fall" never loses momentum. Music critics have highlighted the song's unique structure, noting that the band deliberately avoided repeating musical sections throughout the composition.

Goldmine’s ranking of the Top 20 songs longer than 10 minutes described the track as an example of Mercyful Fate's remarkable songwriting at the very beginning of its career.

"Melissa is relentless, and 'Satan's Fall' keeps up that work ethic despite its length, with King Diamond and the guys taking up the challenge of writing a song where no parts repeat, with Michael Denner and Hank Shermann unfurling killer riff after killer riff, arriving at the extreme end of action-packed."

The song's complexity was no accident.

According to guitarist Michael Denner, learning the finished composition "took ages" because of its constantly evolving structure. Guitarist Hank Shermann composed the music over many sleepless nights while playing an unplugged guitar in his living room.

Shermann continued adding new musical ideas during rehearsals, resulting in a song that featured about 16 different riffs, according to Denner. At the time of its release, "Satan's Fall" became Mercyful Fate's longest studio recording. It held that distinction until the band later released the 13-minute title track from Dead Again.

Released in October 1983, Melissa marked Mercyful Fate's first full-length album and became Roadrunner Records' first album release. The record was recorded at Easy Sounds Studios in Copenhagen with producer Henrik Lund, with the band completing recording and mixing in just 12 days after extensively rehearsing the material.

Although Mercyful Fate is frequently associated with the first wave of black metal, Melissa is widely recognized for combining the sound of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal with musical ideas that helped influence the future development of extreme metal.

The album has since been recognized as one of the earliest and most influential extreme metal releases. Artists across thrash, death, and black metal have cited Mercyful Fate as an inspiration, including members of Metallica, Slayer, Exodus and other major bands.

Mercyful Fate developed a long friendship with Metallica after the two bands met in 1984 while Metallica was recording in Copenhagen. Metallica later recorded a medley of Mercyful Fate songs for its 1998 covers album Garage Inc.

More than four decades after its original release, Melissa continues to receive recognition. The album ranked No. 17 on Rolling Stone's list of the 100 Greatest Metal Albums of All Time, while a 2005 remastered edition was later made available digitally as part of the album's 40th anniversary celebration.

As "Satan's Fall" reaches 43 years since its debut, the song remains one of heavy metal's most ambitious compositions.

Related: 1971 Rock Song, Once Banned by Radio Stations, Became a Breakthrough Smash Without Ever Hitting No. 1