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If the thought of putting your dog in an airplane cargo hold makes your heart sink, you are definitely not alone. Between restrictive airline weight limits, unpredictable tarmac delays, and ever-changing pet policies, taking your four-legged best friend on a major international trip can feel like a logistical nightmare.

Turns out, there is a far grander—and vastly more comfortable—way to cross the pond together.

In honor of National Dog Day on August 26, Cunard is highlighting one of the cruise industry’s best-kept secrets: its flagship ocean liner, the Queen Mary 2, is the only commercial passenger ship in the world with dedicated, full-service pet kennels for Transatlantic Crossings between New York, Southampton, and Hamburg.

Related: The Most Over-the-Top Hotel Experiences for Pampered Pets Around the World

Cunard

Rather than being tucked away in a dark corner, the ship's 24 pet kennels sit high up on Deck 12, complete with a private, dedicated outdoor sun deck where dogs (and cats!) can stretch their paws in the fresh ocean air. To make four-legged guests feel right at home on either side of the Atlantic, the deck is even equipped with an authentic New York fire hydrant and a classic Liverpool lamp post for bathroom breaks.

The VIP treatment starts before you even step foot on board. Pets receive a personal escort during embarkation and spend the voyage under the care of a dedicated Kennel Master.

Related: BARK Air Launches First-Ever 'Dog-First' Hawaii Retreat With Bone Broth Flights and Sensory 'Wonder Walks'

Here is a peek at how the Queen Mary 2 treats its canine passengers:

• Custom Pooch Portraits: Every pet guest receives a complimentary photo session with the ship’s photographer and the Kennel Master, who poses in Cunard’s iconic red bellhop uniform alongside fun props—including a miniature bellhop hat, a Cunard pet jacket, and a Queen Mary 2 life ring.
• Gourmet Dining: Forget standard kibble. Cunard reaches out to owners before the voyage to stock preferred pet food brands, or owners can opt for freshly prepared meals of cooked chicken, vegetables, and broth.
• Cruisewear Souvenirs: Along with cozy fleecy blankets and air-conditioned kennels, every four-legged traveler is gifted a fitted Cunard coat to keep as a memento of their transatlantic journey.

While pet spots on the Queen Mary 2 are notoriously popular and often book out a year or more in advance, it remains the undisputed gold standard for travelers who want to move across the Atlantic with their pets without ever stepping foot on a plane.

Related: Yes, You Can Stay at Disney World With Your Dog—Here's Exactly How It Works

Linda Ronstadt recorded "Long Long Time" in 1970 when she was just 23 years old. The song was written by Gary White and peaked at No. 25 on the Billboard Hot 100. For 53 years, it was largely forgotten. Then in January 2023, HBO's The Last of Usused it three times in a single episode, and Spotify reported a 4,900% increase in streams within one hour. Ronstadt can no longer sing. She sold the masters two years before the boom and received none of the windfall. She said she was glad for Gary.

The song didn't start with Ronstadt. It started backstage at a Greenwich Village coffeehouse. Guitarist David Bromberg brought Ronstadt to the Café Au Go Go to see Gary White perform alongside singer-songwriter Paul Siebel. After the show, Ronstadt went backstage to meet White. He'd already packed up his guitar. He took it back out of its case, sat down and played "Long Long Time" for her on the spot. "I told Gary I wanted to record it immediately," she later recalled.

Released in June 1970 on Silk Purse, the song spent 12 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned Ronstadt a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Female Vocal Performance in 1971. Then, it waited. For more than 50 years it waited.

Craig Mazin, executive producer of The Last of Us, spent hours looking for the right song for Episode 3. He texted Seth Rudetsky, a Broadway music expert on SiriusXM. Rudetsky responded in two seconds: "Linda Ronstadt, Long Long Time." Mazin said: "I was like, there it is. That's it."

Related: Linda Ronstadt Hired Two Unknowns for 1971 Disneyland Concert — Accidentally Assembling One of Rock's Greatest Bands

The episode used the song three times. Bill and Frank discover a Linda Ronstadt songbook at an old piano. Nick Offerman sings the opening lines to the song: "Love will abide, take things in stride, sounds like good advice but there's no one at my side." In a story about surviving the end of the world, those words hit differently than they did in 1970. Within one hour of the episode airing, Spotify reported a 4,900% increase in US streams.

The Song About Enduring Love Endured Longer Than Anyone Expected

Ronstadt is no longer able to sing. She got none of the money. And she said she was glad.

In 2011 she was diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy, a rare brain disorder similar to Parkinson's with no known cure. She retired from performing. In March 2021, she sold her master recordings to Irving Azoff's Iconic Artist Group. When the streaming boom happened two years later, she received none of it. In a 2022 interview with Maria Shriver, she said she could "sing in my brain" but not aloud.

When asked about the resurgence, her response said everything. "My first reaction was that I was really glad for Gary White, who will get a windfall from this."

The Last of Us did for "Long Long Time" what Stranger Things did for Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill" in 2022: it gave a forgotten classic to millions of listeners who'd never heard of it. But the Ronstadt story has something the Bush story doesn't. Ronstadt can't sing anymore. She got nothing. She said she was glad.

The song about enduring love found its largest audience when its singer could only hear it in her head.

Gary White wrote "Long Long Time." Linda Ronstadt heard it played from an unpacked guitar case backstage in Greenwich Village and immediately wanted to record it. She was 23. It peaked at No. 25 and waited 53 years.

One TV episode gave it 4,900% more streams in an hour.

Ronstadt said she was glad for Gary.

The song about enduring love endured.

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It's early in the morning and you can't sleep. So, what do you do? Decide that it's time for an interior design change — we've all been there. If you find yourself surfing the internet for top home deals, turn to Macy's. The retailer has been our go-to for everything from home decor to summer footwear. The Cottage Floral 8-Piece Comforter Set, which is currently 67% off during Macy's Black Friday in July sale, is the latest on our shopping wishlist. 

The set costs $100, but is now marked down to $33 in every size (yes, every size!). The current available sizes include twin, full, queen, and king. The full, queen, and king set includes one comforter, two standard shams, one bed skirt, one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, and two standard pillowcases. Note that the twin size only consists of one sham and one pillowcase, making it a six-piece set.  

Cottage Floral 8-Piece Comforter Set, $33 (was $100) at Macy's 

Courtesy

Shop at Macy's

The comforter set consists of a 100% polyester shell and 100% polyester fill, with 100% polyester sheets. All of the pieces are machine washable, according to the care instruction label provided. This design features a gorgeous floral pattern that displays colors of green, beige, and brown. So, basically, it's a dream for those looking for pieces in the cottagecore aesthetic.  

The "cozy" and "absolutely beautiful" comforter has a medium weight to it, with one shopper saying that it doesn't feel heavy, and, in fact, "feels very soft." Other reviewers described the bedding as "very pretty," "super cute," and "eye-catching." Another said that it's "definitely worth it" for the affordable price. 

Multiple reviewers said that it held up well through washing cycles, with no signs of drying, shrinking, or fading. Plus, the floral pattern is perfect for the warm season, making it a great bedroom upgrade for summer.

Related: Macy's Reversible Quilt Set Is 'Elegant' and Super Soft' With 'Gorgeous' Scalloped Edges

Your home is calling — and it's asking you to upgrade your bedding with this stunning floral comforter set while it's still 67% off during the Macy's Black Friday in July sale! 

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

When it comes to thrillers, there is one author the world turns to. It’s all about the “Queen of Twists,” Freida McFadden, and it’s not surprising that she has not one but two books on Goodreads’ “Best Books of 2026” list.

The Divorce was the second of the two books to make it to the list — Dear Debbie was the first. The May 2026 release ranks at No. 10 on the list, just behind Anatomy of an Alibi by Ashley Elston and just ahead of It’s Not Her by Mary Kubica. It was the first novel to be released after McFadden revealed her real name, after years of people wondering, knowing that she wrote under a pen name.

As soon as The Divorce was released, it became a No. 1 hit on the New York Times bestsellers list. That wasn’t a surprise considering how much hype there was for the novel. McFadden fans love the outlandish twists and reveals that come throughout, and The Divorce was a lot of fun.

Amazon

The novel picks up with Naomi returning home with her son to find that she’s locked out of the house. The door lock has been changed, and her garage door doesn’t seem to open. It takes some time for her to realize that her husband wants a divorce, and it looks like she could be left penniless due to their prenup.

As she finds out that her husband already has a new girlfriend, Naomi decides that it’s time to go digging. Who is this woman, and what can she do to get rid of her? After all, remove the girlfriend, Naomi can get her life back, right?

Of course, there are always two sides to a story. What is the girlfriend’s side, and what exactly did Naomi do in the past that would make us not quite root for her anymore?

Ahead of the release, The Divorce was quickly optioned, with a potential movie in the works. It is still early days right now, but all eyes are on casting and other announcements. 

Eyes are also on McFadden’s next novel, The Witch, which is slated to be published on Oct. 6, 2026. It will mark the fourth new novel in the year, with Dear Debbie and The Dinner Party coming out earlier in 2026.

Sandra Bullock has spent more than three decades winning audiences over with her warmth, wit and remarkable versatility. Whether she's making us laugh in Miss Congenialityand The Proposal, keeping us on the edge of our seats in Speed and Gravity, or delivering an Oscar-winning performance in The Blind Side, Bullock has built one of Hollywood's most beloved careers. Her willingness to take creative risks and continually reinvent herself has made her one of the industry's most respected actresses.

Born on July 26, 1964, Bullock celebrates her birthday today, making her the ideal choice for our Quote of the Day. Beyond her impressive filmography, she has earned admiration for her resilience, generosity and refreshingly down-to-earth outlook on life. From supporting schools in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina to becoming a devoted mother to her two children, Bullock has consistently focused on what matters most: kindness, family and finding joy.

That commitment to family even led her to step away from acting at the height of her career. In 2022, Bullock announced a hiatus from Hollywood so she could be fully present with her children. As she explained, "Right now I don't want to create anything that takes me away from just being present. I don't want to be doing a lot of things at one time that don't service the one thing that I want to be around—my family." It's a reminder that success isn't measured only by career achievements, but also by making time for the people who matter most.

Some of Bullock's most memorable wisdom came during a surprise commencement speech she delivered in 2014 to the graduating class at Warren Easton Charter High School in New Orleans. Bullock began supporting the school after it was devastated by Hurricane Katrina.

Speaking to the graduates, she shared the same life lessons she was teaching her young son. The heartfelt address combined humor with timeless advice about living a fuller life. She encouraged the students to stop fearing the future, embrace setbacks as opportunities, dance before leaving the house because "it changes the way you walk," hug loved ones with both arms and, above all, "go find your joy."

Looking ahead, Bullock is expanding her work as an actor and producer. This September, she stars with Nicole Kidman in Practical Magic 2. She is working on an untitled romantic thriller with Keanu Reevesand developing a new Sony feature with her Lost City collaborator, writer Dana Fox.

Quote of the Day by Sandra Bullock

"Stop worrying so much. Stop being scared of the unknown, because anything I worried about didn't happen. Other stuff happened, but not what I worried about. We can't do anything about the unknown. And I don't remember any of the moments in my life where I worried. So there was a lot of time I couldn't get back."

Bullock shared this inspiring quote during that surprise commencement address at Warren Easton Charter High School, a New Orleans school she has championed and supported since Hurricane Katrina. Addressing the graduating seniors, she reflected on the lessons she wished someone had shared with her when she was their age, urging them to spend less time fearing the unknown and more time embracing the present.

Related: Quote of the Day: Stoic Philosopher Marcus Aurelius on Having ‘Power Over Your Mind—Not Outside Events’

Deeper Meaning of Sandra Bullock's Quote

Sandra Bullock isn't suggesting that life will always go according to plan. In fact, she openly acknowledges that difficult things happen. Her insight is that the hardships we imagine are rarely the ones we actually face. And much of our anxiety is spent preparing for events that never arrive.

This lesson is rooted in acceptance rather than wishful thinking. Since we cannot predict the future, Bullock says that our energy is better spent living fully in the present instead of rehearsing worst-case scenarios. The only thing worry truly accomplishes is taking away time that we will never recover.

That philosophy brings home the larger themes of her commencement speech. Bullock encouraged graduates to raise the bar higher instead of fearing failure because "nothing is a failure; it's just not supposed to work out that way because something better is supposed to come along." She urged the students to seek joy every day and even dance before walking out the door because it changes how they enter the world.

As Bullock celebrates another birthday, her words serve as a reminder that our most precious resource is time. We can't control the unknown, but we can choose not to let fear keep us from the moments that make life meaningful.

Related: Quote of the Day: Stoic Philosopher Seneca on ‘The Power of the Mind:’ ‘To Be Unconquerable’

More Quotes from Sandra Bullock

"I think everyone should work as a waiter or waitress for at least a year. It teaches you patience, it teaches you how to look at people, and it teaches you never to judge anyone based on what they are doing to get by."

"I don't want to rely on work to fill me."

"I feel a huge responsibility to anyone who's younger than me, in [helping them] take the road less traveled, or finding no road at all and blazing a new trail."

"There's no race, no religion, no class system, no color—nothing—no sexual orientation—that makes us better than anyone else. We are all deserving of love."

"Someone gave me the advice: 'Not everyone who hurts you cares. Forgiveness lets you off the hook. Why would you carry that with you if the person doesn't care? Why are you tainting and infecting all the amazing moments that could happen in your life with someone that doesn't care how they hurt you.' So how do you figure out how to let that go? And that takes work."

Next, 225 of the best life quotes.

Marvel revealed its new Black Panther during Comic-Con's Hall H panel this weekend, and the announcement has split fans into a few very distinct camps online.

Director Ryan Coogler confirmed that David Jonsson, known for The Long Walk and Alien: Romulus, will star in the third Black Panther film, releasing December 15, 2028. Jonsson will play T'Challa's son, the character introduced as a child at the end of Wakanda Forever, now grown up and stepping into the mantle. Letitia Wright and Winston Duke are also confirmed to return.

Camp one: Team Jonsson.

For many fans, the reaction was straightforward excitement once the news set in. "David Jonsson as T'Challa Jr is such great news, absolutely amazing actor already. Another called it "inspired casting," with several fans specifically pointing to his performance in The Long Walk as proof he was ready for a role this big.

Camp two: Team Damson Idris.

A large portion of the conversation centered on a different actor entirely, Damson Idris, who many fans had long assumed would land the role. "I thought it was going to be Damson Idris," one commenter wrote, a sentiment echoed throughout the thread. Another admitted, "I wanted Damson Idris as T'Challa, but David Jonsson will be really good too."

Camp three: Just recast T'Challa.

A smaller but vocal group pushed back on the entire premise of a new character taking on the mantle, arguing Marvel should have simply recast T'Challa directly instead of moving forward with his son. "Just give me T'Challa... there is 0 reason to not recast at this point. No actor is bigger than the role," one person wrote. Another added bluntly, "Bring back T'Challa or no dice."

Others raised logistical questions about the timeline, wondering how a child introduced just a few years ago in Wakanda Forever could believably be portrayed as a full-grown adult already.

More than 50 years later, Gordon Lightfoot's haunting account of a devastating shipwreck remains one of the most unforgettable songs in folk-rock history.

Released in 1976, "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" is one of Lightfoot's signature hits and among the most recognizable songs in his catalog. It was inspired by the real-life tragedy of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, which sank in Lake Superior in November 1975, taking all 29 crew members with it.

Lightfoot penned the enduring folk epic after reading a news article about the wreck, which he felt didn't honor the scale of the tragedy. He told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that he found the article "too short, too brief," inspiring him to give the song a new narrative. "I wasn’t forgetting about it," he said at the time. "I knew everyone had forgotten about it, but I knew I hadn't."

The enduring folk epic ended up becoming a massive commercial success for Lightfoot, despite its nearly six-minute run time. It reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, and earned Lightfoot two Grammy nominations at the 1977 ceremony, for both Best Male Pop Vocal Performance and Song of the Year.

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It took five decades, but "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" eventually made it to No. 1 on a Billboard chart for the first time in November 2025, when it had a major resurgence as a result of the 50th anniversary of the ship's sinking.

According to Billboard, the Lightfoot track drew 3.7 official U.S. streams and sold 5,000 downloads for the week ending Nov. 13, 2025. The following week, it returned to the Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart at No. 15, while reaching the summit of the Rock Digital Song Sales chart, marking its firs-ever Billboard No. 1.

Related: 1977 Soft-Rock Staple, Written in Just 10 Minutes, Became a Timeless Heartbreak Anthem

Nearly five decades after its release, The Knack’s “My Sharona” remains one of the most recognizable rock songs of the late 1970s. 

The 1979 power-pop hit became the band’s only No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot 100, staying at the top for six weeks and finishing as Billboard’s No. 1 Top Pop Single of the year, according to Billboard Database.

Released as the lead single from The Knack’s debut album, Get the Knack, “My Sharona” helped turn the Los Angeles band into one of the biggest new acts of 1979. The song’s sharp guitar riff, driving drums and repeated vocal hook quickly made it a radio favorite.

The Knack’s success was not limited to the single. Get the Knack reached No. 1 on the Billboard album chart on August 11, 1979. “My Sharona” followed by reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on August 25, 1979.

Portrait of The Knack at the International Ampitheter in Chicago, Illinois, November 28, 1981.

Photo by Paul Natkin/Getty Images

The song’s success was also a major commercial milestone. It was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America, representing one million copies sold. It became Capitol Records’ fastest gold-status debut single since The Beatles’ “I Want to Hold Your Hand” in 1964.

The Knack was formed in Los Angeles in 1978, with Doug Fieger on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Berton Averre on lead guitar and backing vocals, Prescott Niles on bass, and Bruce Gary on drums. The group quickly built a following in the Sunset Strip club scene before landing a record deal and releasing its debut album.

The Story Behind The Knack’s ‘My Sharona’

The song was written by Fieger and Averre, with Fieger drawing inspiration from Sharona Alperin, a real person he met when he was 25. Alperin was 17 at the time and later became Fieger’s girlfriend.

Fieger described the experience as immediate and powerful. “It was like getting hit in the head with a baseball bat; I fell in love with her instantly. And when that happened, it sparked something and I started writing a lot of songs feverishly in a short amount of time.”

The relationship became the source of several songs, but “My Sharona” became the one that changed The Knack’s career.

Fieger claimed the song was written in 15 minutes. He and Averre developed the structure and melody, while Averre initially did not want to use Alperin’s name in the song. Fieger wanted the title to directly express his feelings, and Averre eventually agreed.

The song was produced by Mike Chapman, who helped shape its clean, energetic sound. The recording also drew on the feel of 1960s rock and the British Invasion, an influence that was central to The Knack’s image and musical style.

“My Sharona” spent six weeks at No. 1 in the United States and became a major hit in other countries. It reached No. 1 in Australia, Canada and Italy, while also making the Top 10 in France, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

Its success helped define the summer of 1979, when the song was heard constantly on radio stations and became a staple for live cover bands.

Internal tensions and changing public opinion eventually led to The Knack’s initial breakup in 1982. The band later reunited several times and continued to perform and record in different forms.

According to Louder Sound, “My Sharona” inspired “My Bologna,” the parody that helped launch “Weird Al” Yankovic’s career. The song has also been linked to the creative direction behind Michael Jackson’s “Beat It,” while Devo’s “Girl U Want” has been described as influenced by the track, though Devo’s Gerald Casale denied that connection.

The song’s guitar work has also received lasting recognition. Rolling Stone ranked “My Sharona” No. 72 on its list of the greatest guitar solos of all time, praising Berton Averre’s extended performance in the full version.

The song has continued to appear in films, television and advertising, showing how deeply it remains connected to popular culture. In 2025, a French-language advertising campaign in Canada used a rewritten version of the song called “Mike chez Rona,” helping introduce its familiar musical hook to another generation.

Fieger and Alperin eventually became a couple and were engaged before ending their relationship. They remained friends, and Alperin visited Fieger during the final months of his life. Fieger died from brain cancer in 2010.

The Knack’s career lasted far beyond its first massive hit, but “My Sharona” remains the band's lasting musical signature.

Related: 1973 Rock Song, Lasting Nearly 21 Minutes, Remains a Classic 53 Years Later

After teasing the song and playing it at recent shows, Morgan Wallen has at last dropped a new single for fans to enjoy at home.

"Been By Now" marks a new chapter for the 33-year-old singer, Country Now reports, as he prepares to wrap up his 23-stadium Still The Problem Tour. There are just two weekends and four shows left across Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Philadelphia.

The headline-making Grammy nominee, who has also been mired in controversy over the years, has continued to churn out country hits so catchy they often bleed into the pop music scene. So, when he had announced the above-mentioned single, fans were simply counting the days until it dropped on streaming platforms and more.

On Friday, July 24, an audio-only YouTube upload became available, and it's only a matter of time until a music video comes to fruition, we're guessing. In the meantime, take a listen below.

Fans have since flooded the post's comments section to show their appreciation for the new track, whose lyrics tell the story of a failing relationship. "Sweet heartache song. Just lost a long time love. He captured the feeling," wrote one YouTube user, while another person commented, "Did you write this for me?…feels like he looked right into my life and BAM A HIT was made! ❤"

A Rare Place in Billboard History

Meanwhile, Wallen reached another major career milestone as another song of his, “Don’t We,” rose to No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart dated Aug. 1. The single gives the country star his 21st chart-topper on the Billboard Country Airplay chart and his 22nd overall No. 1 at country radio.

The song moved up one spot to the top of the Country Airplay chart after earning 33.6 million audience impressions, a 5% increase, during the July 17-23 tracking period, according to Billboard. The extra overall count includes his featured credit on Thomas Rhett’s “Mamaw’s House,” which also reached No. 1 at country radio.

When Mick Jaggercelebrates his 83rd birthday on July 26, he's marking another milestone in one of the most extraordinary careers in rock history.

In 2023, Billboard ranked Jagger No. 1 on its list of the 50 Greatest Rock Lead Singers of All Time, praising not only his unmistakable voice but also the charisma and stage presence that have defined generations of rock music.

The publication wrote, "No one has moves like Jagger, nor the voice, the image, the fashion sense, or the remarkably enduring charisma," adding that after more than six decades, he "continues to personify not only the Rolling Stones but rock'n'roll itself."

It's difficult to argue with that assessment. Since helping found the Rolling Stones in 1962, Jagger has become one of the most recognizable performers in popular music. His partnership with Keith Richards produced classics including "Paint It, Black," "Jumpin' Jack Flash," "Gimme Shelter," "Brown Sugar," "Start Me Up" and "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction," helping turn the band into one of the most successful acts in recording history.

While Billboard placed him at the very top of its rock frontmen ranking, Rolling Stone also honored Jagger on its list of the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time. Musician Lenny Kravitz, who wrote Jagger's entry, praised the singer's often-overlooked technical ability.

"I sometimes talk to people who sing perfectly in a technical sense who don't understand Mick Jagger," Kravitz wrote. "But what he does is so complex: His sense of pitch and melody is really sophisticated. His vocals are stunning, flawless in their own kind of perfection."

Kravitz also revealed that Jagger's legendary stamina isn't simply natural talent. He recalled vacationing with the singer during a break in a Rolling Stones tour and watching him rehearse every evening to stay in shape.

"Your voice is like a muscle," Kravitz explained, noting that Jagger would spend each night singing along to Rolling Stones soundcheck tapes so he wouldn't lose his edge. "As a result, at 65 years of age, he's stronger than ever."

Jagger himself has expressed a similar philosophy. In a 1987 interview with Rolling Stone, he said rock music loses something when it becomes too comfortable.

"The best rock & roll music encapsulates a certain high energy–an angriness–whether on record or onstage. That is, rock & roll is only rock & roll if it's not safe," said Jagger at the time. "You know, one of the things I hate is what rock & roll has become in a lot of people's hands: a safe, viable vehicle for pop. Oh, it's inevitable, I suppose, but I don't like that sort of music. It's like, rock & roll–the best kind, that is, the real thing–is always brash."

More than three decades later, that relentless energy is still on display. Whether sprinting across stadium stages, recording new music or leading marathon concerts with the Rolling Stones, Jagger has continued to perform with the same commitment that helped earn him Billboard's title of the greatest rock lead singer of all time.

Related: One of Rock's Most Famous Muses Turns 70 Today

Elvis Presley is one of the most recognizable names in music history.

But for years, even his own middle name wasn't as straightforward as fans might think.   

When Elvis was born in Tupelo, Miss., on Jan. 8, 1935, his middle name appeared as Aron on his birth certificate.

Not the more familiar biblical spelling, Aaron, that many fans know today.

The unusual spelling has fascinated Elvis enthusiasts for generations, with multiple explanations emerging over the years.

According to Elvis' estate, his parents chose "Aron" because they wanted it to resemble the middle name of Elvis' stillborn identical twin, Jesse Garon Presley. At the same time, Elvis was also named after Vernon Presley's close friend, Aaron Kennedy, adding another layer to the story behind the name.

Later in life, however, Elvis reportedly preferred the traditional spelling, "Aaron."

As he looked into officially changing it, he learned that some official state records had already listed his middle name as "Aaron," creating years of confusion over which spelling was technically correct.

After Elvis died in 1977, his father, Vernon Presley, chose to engrave "Aaron" on the singer's gravestone at Graceland. The decision reflected Elvis' reported wishes and is the spelling his estate continues to use today.

The conflicting spellings have fueled endless conversations among Elvis fans over the decades, with "Aron" appearing on many documents created during his lifetime while "Aaron" has become the version most commonly associated with the music icon today.

RELATED: Elvis Presley’s First National Chart Hit, ‘Baby Let’s Play House,’ Turns 71 Today

What's your favorite book by Stephen King?

The list of bestselling novels seems to be endless, but if we rewind to the beginning, his career seemingly launched with none other than Carrie.

There have been multiple film adaptations over the years, with Brian De Palma's 1976 version arguably taking the cake. And now, the source material has been making headlines ever since a series adaptation started taking shape.

On Saturday, July 25, Prime Video announced that all eight episodes of the highly anticipated show Carrie will premiere on the streamer October 7 worldwide.

Kicking off a packed San Diego Comic-Con panel, Prime Video debuted an official teaser trailer, giving audiences a first look at acclaimed showrunner Mike Flanagan's bold adaptation — a fresh, contemporary reimagining of King's classic story.

The footage also dropped on YouTube on Saturday. Check out the terrifying trailer below.

Fans have since flooded the post's comments section to express their excitement. "I'm seated. "The amazon employees are scared and asking me to leave because it’s 'not October yet' but I’m simply too seated," wrote one YouTube user, while another person commented, "OH MY GOD I AM SO EXCITED."

Others, however, expressed their reservations, given that the 1976 film adaptation was so critically acclaimed. "Brave of you to take on a horror classic that was done beautifully the first time," wrote one fan, while another user commented, "why? just why? they already did it perfectly."

Here's some of the sneak-peek synopsis offered by Prime Video on Saturday: "Carrie is a bold, timely, and surprising reinvention of the classic coming‑of‑age story... The series follows misfit high‑schooler Carrie White (Summer H. Howell) who has spent her life hidden away inside the walls of her home with her fiercely protective mother, Margaret (Samantha Sloyan).

The synopsis continues, "The series expands King’s cultural landmark, deepening its characters and tensions while following the small, everyday choices that build toward a single, shattering night in a gripping, deeply human story about kindness versus cruelty."

If you were a kid in the '90s or a parent trying to track down the hottest holiday gift of the decade, you remember the sound that started a frenzy: Elmo's uncontrollable giggle.

Thirty years after Tickle Me Elmo became one of the most unforgettable toys of the 1990s, the beloved Sesame Street character is returning with a supersized update designed to bring that same nostalgic magic to a new generation.

JustPlay

The new Tickle Me Elmo Giggle Max is the biggest version of the iconic toy yet, standing 18 inches tall and bringing back the interactive laughter that made the original a must-have holiday gift in 1996.

Like the original, the fun starts with a tickle.

But this time, Elmo has more ways to react, with a ticklish belly, feet that trigger different giggles, animated movements and a whole-body shaking laugh that gets bigger the more he plays.

For longtime fans, the appeal is the chance to revisit one of the biggest toy moments of their childhood.

When the original Tickle Me Elmo launched in 1996, it quickly became one of the most sought-after toys of the decade. Stores struggled to keep shelves stocked, shoppers lined up during the holiday season, and the toy became a pop culture phenomenon that was nearly impossible to find.

The craze surrounding Tickle Me Elmo was unlike anything many parents had seen before. The little red monster with the unforgettable laugh became a symbol of '90s holiday shopping, joining the ranks of other nostalgic must-have toys that defined the era.

The Tickle Me Elmo Giggle Max is available for pre-sale at Amazon and Walmart.com, with a wider retail launch beginning in mid-July. The updated toy is designed for a new generation of kids while giving parents and collectors a nostalgic reminder of the toy that once dominated wish lists everywhere.

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Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition covers a wide range of topics, including a beloved leisurely activity and an aggressive icy game. 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 Sunday, July 26, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Sunday, July 26, 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 26, 2026

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

• Yellow: Buckeye state orgs.
• Green: Seen on a boat.
• Blue: America's pastime identifiers.
• Purple: Hockey orgs.

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: OHIO TEAMS
• Green: FISHING GEAR
• Blue: FOUND IN MLB TEAM LOGOS
• Purple: ENDS IN AN NHL TEAM

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 #671 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• OHIO TEAMS: BROWNS, BUCKEYES, CAVALIERS, CREW
• FISHING GEAR: HOOK, SINKER, SPOON, TACKLE BOX
• FOUND IN MLB TEAM LOGOS: BASEBALL GLOVE, BRIDGE, CROWN, SOCKS
• ENDS IN AN NHL TEAM: BLUE DEVILS, BOILERS, PF FLYERS, STOCKINGS

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.

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You have a lot of occasions this summer that call for a pretty dress, spanning from birthday parties to weddings. That's why we've been on the lookout for amazing seasonal clothing deals that will become your new go-to, without having to break the bank. Thanks to Macy's, you can shop for the White Mark V-Neck Floral Print Maxi Dress at 60% off, which gives designer vibes for so much less.

The dress originally cost $74, but has been reduced to just $30 during the retailer's limited-time Black Friday in July deals event. The piece is being sold in three colors: cream, orange, and black. All of the available colors feature a similar floral print pattern, the palette just varies a bit. For example, the cream base is decorated with red, orange, and green flowers and leaves, while the orange features yellow and purple. 

White Mark V-Neck Floral Print Maxi Dress, $30 (was $74) at Macy's

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

The sizes range from small to XXL, with the product description noting that the dress runs true to size. The piece is made of 100% rayon so it's machine washable according to the care instruction label. The design features a classic V-neck, spaghetti straps, side pockets (which is already a win in itself), and tiered ruffles in the skirt. The piece is slightly form-fitting in the top, then flows out as a traditional maxi skirt does.

White Mark V-Neck Floral Print Maxi Dress, $30 (was $74) at Macy's

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

The dress even has buttons below the neckline that you can adjust accordingly. The beauty of this style is that you can dress it up or down. Pair it with chic heeled sandals for an elevated look, or make it look sporty with fashionable sneakers. The latter choice is especially helpful for those who want to look stylish on summer vacations but are walking long distances. 

Related: Macy’s ‘Dainty’ Freshwater Pearl Jewelry Set Nails the Coastal Grandmother Aesthetic and Radiates Quiet Luxury

Shoppers described the piece as "amazing," "soft," "so comfortable," "easy to wear," and "perfect for any occasion." Other customers love that the dress falls right around the ankles because you don't have to worry about it touching the ground. One reviewer did say that it can wrinkle easily, so ironing it before you wear it is wise.   

Shop More Deals 

• Clarks Breeze Cove Flip Flop Flats, $25 (was $60) at Macy's
• Easy Spirit Briana Mary Jane Mesh Walking Shoes, $62 (was $89) Macy's
• Clarks Fenner Nerice Flip Flops, $25 (was $60) at Macy's

This gorgeous floral dress can easily be confused with designer offerings, but for a fraction of the price. Plus, it's the kind of piece that everyone will be asking about. Add the dress to your online Macy's cart while it's 60% 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.

Kacey Musgraves has just become the latest artist to abruptly cancel upcoming tour dates.

The Grammy Award winner, 37, axed three shows from her upcoming Middle of Nowheretour, including the opening night in Chicago on August 20. Her previously scheduled shows in Boston on August 29, and Brooklyn, New York, on September 2, were also cut, according to the Daily Mail.

"Please be advised that that Kacey Musgraves concert scheduled for Saturday, August 29, 2026 at TD Garden has been canceled. We apologize for any inconvenience," an email sent to ticket holders, which was later shared via Reddit, read. "All tickets will be automatically refunded to fans at their original point of purchase."

While no explanation was given for the cancellations, fans in Chicago, Boston, and Brooklyn can still catch the "Slow Burn" artist in each city, as other dates were unaffected.

Musgraves is the latest in a list of artists who have pulled the plug or downscaled their 2026 tours, including Post Malone, Meghan Trainor, the Pussycat Dolls, and Zayn Malik.

The "Follow Your Arrow" singer has yet to address the canceled shows.

Solving today's NYT Strands puzzle should come with an honorary pocket protector and glasses. 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 #875 on Sunday, July 26.

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: "All-knowing"

A hint for today's Strands game: Like Steve Urkel.

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:

• AU
• PU
• MA
• SP
• GU
• EX
• BI (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

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

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for July 26

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Sunday, July 26, 2026, isBIGBRAIN.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Sunday, July 26?

• AUTHORITY
• PUNDIT
• MAVEN
• SPECIALIST
• GURU
• EXPERT
• SPANGRAM: BIGBRAIN

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Today’s New York Times Connections puzzle includes references to notable moments with your mini me, gadgets from the past, umbrella weather, and a common beach find. 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 #1141 onSunday, July 26, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Sunday, July 26, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Sunday'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 Sunday, July 26

1. Little one's memorable moments.
2. Now considered obsolete.
3. Perfect atmosphere for staying in.
4. They're sold down by the seashore.

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 Sunday, July 26:

1. BABY MILESTONES: CRAWLING, FIRST WORDS, ROLLING OVER, SOLID FOOD
2. OUTMODED CONSUMER TECH: BLACKBERRY, DISCMAN, DVD PLAYER, PLASMA TV
3. EXPRESSIONS FOR RAIN: APRIL SHOWERS, LIQUID SUNSHINE, SCOTCH MIST, WET WEATHER
4. WHAT "SHELL" MIGHT REFER TO: CARAPACE, GAS STATION, PASTRY CRUST, ROWING BOAT

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: I Tried Reese Witherspoon's Grandma's Corn Salad and It's the Refreshing Ode to Summer That I'll Be Making on Repeat

Written between 1948 and 1953, Vladimir Nabokovwrote his novelLolita while traveling across the United States with his wife. Nabokov did not write the controversial story linearly, instead jotting things down as they came to him onto notecards. Lolita took Nabokov the entirety of those five years to complete

Because of the subject matter of the novel, Nabokov originally intended to publish it under a pseudonym. Due to that and fears of censorship, the manuscript was turned down by Viking, Simon & Schuster, New Directions, Farrar, Straus, and Doubleday. Subsequently, Nabokov opted to initially publish the book with Olympia Press in France under his own name. While the first run of 5,000 books did sell out, it did not receive any reviews until the Sunday Times called it "one of the best books of 1955."

Lolita has been met with controversy for the whole of its lifespan since being published in 1955. Despite this, it has been ranked among the best books of all time by numerous critical publications, including Time, The Guardian, Modern Library, and even most recently, Collider.

Lolitais narrated by Humbert Humbert, a literature professor who becomes obsessed with a 12-year-old girl named Dolores Haze, but he nicknames her "Lolita." Humbert marries Dolores's mother, Charlotte, in order to get closer to her, and he romanticizes his perverse fixation with the child. When Charlotte discovers Humbert's obsession, she runs into the street and is fatally hit by a car, making Humbert Dolores's legal guardian. This leads to him sexually abusing her over the course of their cross-country travels.

Because of the subject matter, Lolita continues to generate controversy and pushback well into today. The novel has been banned in parts of the United States, Austria, Belgium, Australia, Argentina, and Myanmar. It has even inspired other works purely published to discuss the novel and the different interpretations that exist.

Lolita and other publications discussing the novel are available wherever books are sold.

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Related: Best-Selling Classic Novel, Written By a 21-Year-Old, Became a ‘Most Loved Book’