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Weezer is turning their upcoming tour into a fun and immersive experience with exciting surprises for fans.

After announcing the highly anticipated The Gathering touron Thursday, the ’90s rock band is gearing up for a series of fan-focused events as part of the promotion for their 2026 run.

Two years after their Voyage to the Blue Planet tour, the “Island in the Sun” hitmaker is launching Initiation Week.

In an Instagram post announcing the tour, Weezer also revealed they are hosting special fan events for several days leading up to the release of the single from their 20th studio album, Shine Again, scheduled on April 1.

The special event awards prizes to winners, but attendance is limited to those who RSVP.

“BEFORE THE GATHERING SPREADS, IT IS BORN IN LOS ANGELES. INITIATION WEEK BEGINS TONIGHT,” the post reads, outlining the date, location and type of the event.

Patrick Wilson, Brian Bell, Rivers Cuomo and Scott Shriner of Weezer perform during the 2025 When We Were Young Music Festival at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds on October 18, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Bryan Steffy/Getty Images

The event, which started on March 26, featured a trivia night that centered on how well fans know the band, as well as the so-called “Sunset Ceremony”, an exclusive secret-location event.

In addition, Weezer’s Initiation Week also included a pinball competition where participants interacted with band members Scott Shriner and Rivers Cuomo.

As for the upcoming event scheduled on March 30, the special event wraps up with a mini pickleball tournament with Scott Shriner, Rivers Cuomo and Patrick Wilson as the "council."

The band is tapping into the popularity of these activities to engage with fans on a personal level while inviting them to their upcoming concert.

“Weezer has always been a band of the people,” according to Cleveland.com, adding “These days, many of the people are playing pickleball, so Weezer’s just meeting their fans where they are ... on the pickleball court in hopes of enticing them into the venue.”

The second half of the year will be busy for the award-winning band as Weezer: The Gathering tour kicks off on Sept. 8 in Sacramento, California, covering major cities in North America like Chicago, Toronto, New York, Ohio and more before wrapping up on Oct. 24 in Los Angeles.

The Grammy-winning band also invited The Shins and Silversun Pickups as their special guests.

Related: 1971 Career-Defining Classic Was a No. 1 Hit Song 55 Years Ago Today

A massive 1977 Yacht Rock hit by Stephen Bishop just missed the Top 10, but “On and On” quickly became a smooth, irresistible classic that still defines the era.

Its smooth, easygoing melody and relatable lyrics made the song an instant favorite with fans. Listeners were drawn into its tale of love, life, and the little moments that stick with you.

In an interview with Songfacts, Bishop explained his inspiration for the song. He described the bittersweet feeling of realizing that life and relationships keep moving forward on and on.

"I write from titles usually. I was walking down to the corner grocery store in Silverlake, California where I was living at the time and I came up with the idea of 'On and On,'" Bishop began. My landlady had a lot of exotic flowers all around the house, and I wanted to write something from somewhere else, like Jamaica."

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The reference to the tropical island hits listeners in the first verse, "Down in Jamaica, they've got lots of pretty women. Steal your money then they'll break your heart."

RELATED: 1970s Country Classic Earns Spot Among the Best Songs of the Decade

Bishop then tells the story of "Lonesome Sue" and "Ol Sam" as well as "Ol Jimmy" who face heartbreak in their romantic lives. The song weaves these stories together, capturing the universal struggles of love and longing.

The singer and songwriter claimed that he was looking to carve out a career in the 1970s similar to a hugely successful contemporary. “James Taylor’s Sweet Baby James album came out during that time, and I was envious of him. I had an incredible amount of drive, and all I could think about was writing a hit for myself.”

RELATED: 49 Years Ago, a Single-Word Country Hit Broke Hearts and Conquered the Charts

"On and On" would land at No. 11 on the Billboard charts in October 1977. It would linger on the charts for an incredible 28 weeks.

Stephen Bishop is hitting the road again, Parade reported. “After seven years away from the road, I’m returning to the stage this September,” he posted online. “It all begins with two nights at the Wheeler Opera House in Aspen, Colorado, on September 12 and 13, 2026.” 

NEXT: 1974 Tragedy-Inspired Pop Song Beat a Rival Band to No. 1

A new wildfire situation is unfolding in one of America’s most beloved landscapes, and it’s raising concerns for both travelers and conservationists. As firefighters continue battling active blazes inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the situation is a reminder that even the most visited national parks are not immune to growing wildfire risks.

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@smokymountainfamily

Conditions becoming serious inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park as firefighters work to to suppress two active wildfires. The Fox Pen and Rabbit Creek fires, 111/ 0% contained and 48 acres 75% contained respectively, are being fueled by dry conditions and gusty winds. gatlinburg gsmnp wildfire

♬ original sound - TheSmokyMountainFamily - TheSmokyMountainFamily A Developing Situation in the Smokies

As of late March 2026, two active wildfires, known as the Rabbit Creek Fire and the Fox Gap Fire, are burning within the park. These fires, though relatively small compared to massive western blazes, are still significant due to their location in steep, remote terrain that makes containment difficult. 

The Fox Gap Fire has reached over 100 acres and remains only partially contained, while the Rabbit Creek Fire, though smaller, is still actively being managed by crews. Firefighters from multiple agencies, including the U.S. Forest Service, have joined efforts to control the spread, highlighting how seriously officials are taking the threat.

To support these operations and keep visitors safe, several trails, campsites, and roads in the affected areas have been temporarily closed.

Related: A National Park Was Evacuated Over a Massive Volcanic Eruption

Why Wildfires Are Happening Here

Wildfires in the Southeast may seem unusual compared to those in California or the Southwest, but they’re becoming increasingly common and more dangerous. Dry conditions, fluctuating weather patterns, and an accumulation of forest fuel (like dead leaves and fallen trees) all contribute to fire risk.

In fact, wildfire activity in the southeastern United States has been rising in recent years, with the region accounting for a significant portion of fires nationwide. 

In the case of the Smokies, the terrain itself plays a role. The park’s dense forests and mountainous landscape can trap heat and wind, allowing fires to spread unpredictably. When combined with dry spells or gusty conditions, even a relatively small ignition can grow quickly.

This isn’t the park’s first encounter with fire, either. The devastating 2016 Great Smoky Mountains wildfires showed just how dangerous conditions can become, with thousands of acres burned and widespread destruction in nearby communities. 

@devindenault0

Crews continue working to contain the Rabbit Creek Fire along with other active wildfires in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Dry conditions and high winds have made firefighting efforts challenging, with smoke visible across parts of East Tennessee and Western North Carolina. Officials are urging visitors and locals to stay alert, follow park closures, and avoid restricted areas as crews work to protect the land and nearby communities.#SmokyMountains #WildfireUpdate #GSMNP #EastTennessee #StaySafe

♬ original sound - DevinMDenault - DevinMDenault What This Means for Visitors

With more than 11 million visitors each year, the Smokies are the most visited national park in the United States. That means even smaller-scale wildfires can have a major impact on travel plans.

If you’re planning a trip this spring or summer, flexibility is key. Trail closures, limited access to campgrounds, and sudden changes in park conditions are all possible while firefighting efforts continue. Even areas far from active flames may be affected by smoke, reduced visibility, or safety restrictions.

It’s also important to understand that wildfires can evolve quickly. While these current fires are being actively managed, shifting weather conditions, especially wind, can change their behavior in a matter of hours.

Related: Most Visited National Park Shockingly Isn't Yellowstone or the Grand Canyon

How to Travel Smart During Wildfire Season

If you still plan to visit the Smokies or other national parks this year, a few precautions can make a big difference:

• Check park alerts regularly: The National Park Service provides real-time updates on closures and fire activity.
• Have backup plans: Choose alternative trails or nearby attractions in case your original itinerary is affected.
• Be prepared for air quality issues: Smoke can travel far beyond the fire zone, especially in mountainous regions.
• Follow all fire restrictions: Even small campfires or discarded cigarettes can spark new blazes in dry conditions.

Related: Years-Long Closures Are Coming to Popular Parts of Beloved U.S. National Park

A Growing Reality for U.S. Parks

Wildfires are no longer just a western U.S. issue. From the Southeast to the Northeast, changing climate patterns and environmental conditions are expanding fire risk into new areas.

The situation in the Great Smoky Mountains is still evolving, but it underscores a larger trend: natural spaces are becoming more vulnerable, and visitors must adapt alongside them.

If you’re heading into the mountains this year, stay informed, stay flexible, and respect the conditions on the ground. Because even in one of America’s most peaceful and picturesque parks, things can change fast.

Joan Nathan is synonymous with Jewish cooking. The award-winning food writer and cookbook author has written for a range of publications, including The New York Times, hosted her own PBS cooking show and written a dozen cookbooks, including My Life in Recipes, a collection of recipes and personal stories. 

When she was writing the book, she looked back through her life—and also went back through generations of family members—to tell her story and theirs through food. One of the most personal recipes in the book is a classic Jewish dish, matzo ball soup. 

"From the time I was a little kid, the aroma of matzo ball soup meant it's a holiday or it's Friday night or it's something special," says Nathan. "And it's also very comforting and satisfying." Her go-to recipe pulls inspiration from her mother's recipe and also includes flavors that reflect her German-Jewish ancestors.

In her collection of old handwritten cookbooks, she found that many German-Jewish matzo balls included dried ginger and nutmeg. She kept the nutmeg and swapped in fresh ginger for dried, adding her influence to the recipe. 

The matzo balls themselves are also very specific to Nathan. Matzo balls are typically either "sinkers" or "floaters," but Nathan prefers a dumpling that's somewhere in between those two extremes—what she calls "al dente" matzo balls.

"The sinkers are very heavy and often are not cooked long enough, which is why they're heavy," she says. "The very light ones, they sometimes put baking soda in the mix, or they use soda water. To me, those are too light. I don't like that light. And again, you cook them a longer time to make them lighter. I just like exactly al dente."

All of Nathan's careful thought and attention to detail create a next-level matzo ball soup. To help you dial in your recipe, we quizzed her a little bit more to get the tips you need to upgrade the dish in your kitchen. 

Related: 8 Easy Passover Recipes

How to Make the Best-Ever Matzo Ball Soup, According to Joan Nathan

Photo by Anchiy on Getty Images

Start with these tips and tricks for matzo ball soup perfection. 

Skip the mix.

Nathan's mother-in-law used matzo ball mix, but Nathan prefers to use matzo meal so she can dial in exactly the flavors she wants.

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Schmaltz it up.

To really amp up the chicken flavor in the dish, Nathan likes to use chicken fat (aka schmaltz) in her matzo balls. "Chicken fat's the easiest thing in the world," she says. "You can either buy it or when you're making your next chicken, or you're making your chicken soup for the matzo balls, just refrigerate cooked soup overnight and take the chicken fat off the soup from the top and you just need a tablespoon or two." If you don't want to use chicken fat, you can also sub in vegetable oil or vegan butter. 

Add some spice.

Nathan loves to use grated nutmeg and fresh ginger ("a lot of it," she says) when making her matzo balls. The spices pair beautifully with the chicken broth. She sometimes adds chopped dill or parsely to the mix for a hit of freshness.

Related: Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Spicy Food Every Day

Let it rest.

Nathan makes and chills her matzo ball mix at least three hours ahead, but prefers to make it the night before. The extra time helps the flavors mix, mingle and mellow and ensures that the matzo meal is hydrated. 

Cook them in water.

Nathan makes her own chicken soup or broth for serving the matzo balls, but she prefers to cook them in boiling water first, then add them to the soup. Why? On the off chance that some of the matzo balls don't hold together, you're only making a pot of water murky, instead of your precious chicken broth. 

Check the size.

Nathan is pretty specific about her preferred size of matzo ball. "I form balls that are bigger than a walnut, but smaller than a golf ball," she says.

Related: 7 Passover Desserts to Give Your Seder a Sweet Ending

Don't get stuck.

To prevent the matzo ball mixture from sticking to her hands, Nathan dips her hands in cold water before shaping them. As she rolls them, they go right into the boiling salted water.

Cook them to 'al dente.'

To get the Goldilocks texture that's somewhere between a "floater" and a "sinker," add the matzo balls to the boiling water cover the pot and wait about 20 minutes. "When they're done, the mazto balls should pop to the top of the water," says Nathan. "And I can sort of tell if they're almost done, but take one out and open it and see if it's cooked all the way through. And taste it. If it tastes okay, then it's done."

Plan ahead.

Matzo balls freeze well, which makes it easy to have the classic soup anytime the craving hits. "I sometimes freeze them in the soup, so the dish is totally done," says Nathan. "Or you can freeze them on a cookie sheet and then just throw them in a freezer bag. But, in a way, it's better to do it in the soup, if you can."

Related: Latke Lessons From Ina Garten, Andrew Zimmern and Melissa Clark

Michael Landon was one of the “bosses” on Little House on the Prairie. Not only did he play main character Charles Ingalls on the beloved NBC drama series, but he also served as an executive producer on the show from 1974 to 1983.

While he was notorious for his strong work ethic, it wasn’t always all business for Landon. Fellow cast member Patrick Labyorteaux (Andy Garvey on the series) recently revealed that the Little House patriarch was a wild prankster—and once scared the heck out of a script supervisor.

In a video posted to his Patrick Labyorsheaux YouTube page in March 2026, Labyorteaux recalled a crazy stunt Landon pulled on Mary Yerke, who was the script supervisor on the show from 1974 to 1978.

Labyorteaux noted that Landon, aka “Pa” Ingalls, “was always telling jokes, doing these crazy things” on set.

“And one of his favorite targets was our script supervisor, Mary,” he revealed. “And Mary was this delightful woman who stood about two feet tall, and she had this huge script.”

Landon would jokingly put rocks in Mary’s director’s chair to make it heavy for her to carry— unbeknownst to her, who just thought the chair itself weighed a ton.

"She’s dragging her chairs. She's got about 10 pounds of rocks in her chair with her scripts, which are like really heavy,” Labyorteaux recalled. “And I remember her saying, ‘Man, I must be getting old. These chairs are getting so heavy.’ And Michael would just laugh and laugh and laugh.”

Landon also pulled another prank that was even more devious.

“Michael is the director, writer, producer, star,” Labyorteaux shared. “He was the boss, and he was a great boss because he was always so fun. But Michael this time had a real stern look on his face, and he looked over at Mary, and he called her over. He wasn't saying anything. Mary goes over with her script, and she goes, ‘Yeah, boss.’ And he looks at her, and he leans in, and he opens his mouth and out flies this tiny frog. Because we had thousands of them up in Simi Valley, where [we shot the show]. They're tiny little frogs. He had put it in his mouth, just about scared the life out of her.”

“It was like the best kids' joke ever,” Labyorteaux added. “Frogs jumping out of Michael Landon's mouth. Yes, please. I'll have some more.”

RELATED: ‘Little House in the Prairie’ Star Had Michael Landon in Stitches During Audition

Landon didn’t just prank the script supervisor with frogs

Landon apparently used frogs to scare others on the Little House set.

In a February 2025 interview with Edify Films, series star Melissa Gilbert shared that Landon would routinely ask her to get him the frogs. “He’d lean over and say, ‘Half Pint, get me [a frog],” the Laura Ingalls actress recalled. “So I would go down to the pond and get a couple frogs, and he would put them in his mouth.”

Gilbert explained that Landon usually pulled the stunt “when there were women on the set who were "kind of just standing there, ogling.”

“Because he’s walking around with no shirt on and Pa pants and his boots and his suspenders,” she explained. “And they’re all swooning in the corner. And he’d go ‘Hi!’ And a frog would jump out [of his mouth].”

Landon pranked Johnny Carson big time

Landon’s pranks also weren’t limited to the Little House set. The actor, who died in 1991, once tricked late-night legend Johnny Carson by falsely telling him he’d run over a cat in a restaurant parking lot, per Remind magazine. Carson agreed to return to the Beaurivage Restaurant in Malibu after Landon fessed up, but he played his own joke by having a server bring out a covered tray with a flattened toy cat on it.

Landon got the last laugh, though. The forward-thinking star already had fake menus made up with entrees that included “Tureen of Tabby with scallions, tomatoes, cucumber in 30-weight motor oil,” and “Pussy mousse à la Mercedes, prepared right on the property.” When Carson saw the phony food items listed, the two pals enjoyed another laugh.

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For the first time in nine years, there are no new Star Trek shows or movies in active production. With Starfleet Academy canceled and Strange New Worlds wrapping with its upcoming fifth season, Paramount+ has 26 episodes of Star Trek left in the bank, and nothing behind them. For a franchise that once had five shows running simultaneously, that's pretty thin.

Starfleet Academy premiered January 15, earned strong critical reviews, and concluded its 10-episode first season on March 12, only to be canceled 11 days later. The ratings simply weren't there. The show earned an enthusiastic critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes but never charted among Nielsen's weekly top-10 streaming lists. Alex Kurtzman, who has overseen Star Trek on Paramount+ since 2017, has a contract reportedly ending in 2026, adding another layer of uncertainty to the franchise's future.

Fans haven't gone quietly. A Change.org petition calling on Paramount+ to renew Starfleet Academy for a third season crossed 10,000 signatures within days of the cancellation announcement, and new names are still being added. The fan response has been passionate and divided. Separate petitions have emerged on both sides, with some fans urging Paramount to bring the show back and others arguing the franchise needs a clean break. Whatever your position, the level of engagement speaks to how deeply people still care about Star Trek.

Related: 'Star Trek' Turns 60 With a Packed Year: Here's Everything You Need to Know

So what does the timeline actually look like? Strange New Worlds Season 4, consisting of 10 episodes, is targeted to premiere on Paramount+ in summer 2026, the traditional window for the series. Season 5, a shorter six-episode final run, is expected in 2027. Starfleet Academy Season 2 is also expected to air in 2027, giving fans a proper sendoff for the cadets. After that, the screen goes dark, unless something new gets greenlit.

That something may be a movie. Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley, the filmmaking duo behind Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, have been set to write, produce, and direct an entirely original Star Trek film for Paramount, one unconnected to any previous series. No production start date has been confirmed, but a theatrical Star Trek could provide the reset the franchise needs.

The last time Star Trek went dark on TV was when Enterprisewas canceled in 2005, and the franchise was off the air for 12 years before returning with Discovery in 2017. Nobody expects a gap that long this time. Paramount Skydance has signaled it wants to triple its feature film output, and multiple Star Trek movies are reportedly in development as part of that push.

This is also Star Trek's 60th anniversary year. September 8 (Star Trek Day) could bring a major announcement, The franchise has always found a way to beam back onto our screens. It's very likely to continue to live long and prosper.

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Wendy's is revamping a few recipes this spring, but don't worry, the changes are all said to be for the better.

On Monday, the beloved fast-food chain revealed it had reworked its signature Spicy Chicken Sandwich (as well as its less bold counterpart, the Chicken Sandwich) to make it "even better."

"The Wendy’s Spicy Chicken Sandwich is iconic, and we saw an opportunity to make the best spicy chicken sandwich in the category even better," Lindsay Radkoski, U.S. chief marketing officer at The Wendy’s Company, explained in a March 30 statement. "After more than a year of testing and listening to consumer feedback, one thing was clear: guests wanted everything they already love, just elevated."

"This refresh honors the sandwich’s legacy while delivering the bold, modern flavor our fans crave," Radkoski added.

But that's not the only change in store for Wendy's customers this spring. In fact, it's probably easier to name the recipes that haven't been touched: its fries, Frostys (though it did recently revamp its Thin Mints-inspired Frosty), and world-famous chili.

Wendy's Refreshes Its Spicy Chicken Sandwich With A New Recipe

According to the burger joint, behind all the changes is a comprehensive, consumer-driven development process.

"From ingredient selection to cooking techniques, each element was evaluated through the lens of what fans told us they wanted most. After dozens of samples, extensive consumer focus groups, and meticulous in-restaurant testing, Wendy’s put fans at the center of the innovation process to ensure the new sandwiches deliver superior taste and uphold Wendy’s high-quality promise," the company said, noting this is it "doubling down on what matters: freshly made, crispy, juicy premium sandwiches that our fans crave."

"We're listening, we're innovating and we're committed to raising the bar on quality in everything we do."

Related: Wendy’s to Revive This Popular Sauce in 2026: ‘Not a Drill’

Wendy's new Spicy Chicken Sandwich.

Wendy's

As for what that means for Wendy's new Spicy Chicken Sandwich, here's what we know: The recipe features a new marinade that Wendy's said offers a "juicier bite," as well as crispy panko-style breading infused with nine spices for "a heat that hits." The reimagined Spicy Chicken sandwich now also includes pickles for "extra crunch and balance" and is layered with a rich, homestyle mayo inspired by classic Southern recipes.

Wendy's 'Upgrades' Several Other Popular Menu Items—Including the Dave's Single

Its non-spicy version, as well as all other Wendy's sandwiches (the Dave's Single, Dave’s Double, Dave’s Triple, Baconator, Son of Baconator, Big Bacon Classic, Asiago Ranch Chicken Club, Spicy Asiago Ranch Chicken Club, and the Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich) will be revamped with a new potato bun.

Although Wendy's didn't explicitly say it, we believe the new potato bun is the same one fans got a first bite of when the company dropped the new Cheesy Bacon Cheesburger last month. It's soft, slightly sweet, and capable of holding together even the messiest, cheesiest concoctions—it's a real upgrade if you ask us.

Wendy's rolls out new potato buns for burgers and sandwiches. When Will Wendy's Recipe Changes Go Into Effect?

Wendy's reimagined Spicy Chicken Sandwich recipe, along with its new buns, is expected to roll out at all U.S. locations beginning today (Monday, March 30)—coinciding with the recent release of its new DC Comics Kids Meal toys.

Next: McDonald’s Launches New ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ McFlurry and 2 Combo Meals

Long before squishies and slime, there was a stretchy, corn-syrup-filled action figure that took the toy world completely by storm—and this year, it turns 50.

Kenner introduced the iconic 10-inch latex Stretch Armstrong doll in 1976, and from day one, toy store owners couldn't keep him on shelves. At $11 a pop, the toy generated over $50 million in revenue for the company, and the secret behind his signature stretchability was about as unglamorous as it gets; he was packed with corn syrup.

The idea originated in 1974 when Kenner design director Jesse Horowitz sketched out what he called "Stretch Man"—a figure kids could contort with limbs that snapped back into place. Early prototypes used coiled springs for a skeleton, but safety concerns over sharp metal sent the team back to the drawing board. The solution came from Kenner's vice president of research and development, James "Jeep" Kuhn, a chemical engineer who had a more unconventional fix in mind. 

What followed was a surprisingly lo-fi development process. Creators boiled down the corn syrup, filled latex molds, and presented the result to Kenner president Bernie Loomis, who immediately gave it the green light. For mass production, Kenner fine-tuned the corn syrup formula, cutting it with micron-sized bits of glass and wood particles to achieve just the right consistency—stretchy enough to reach an impressive four feet in length, but resilient enough to bounce back without tearing. And in case of mishaps and small nicks, he even came with ten bandages.

Stretch hit shelves in time for the 1976 holiday season, landing alongside Pong consoles and Kenner's Bionic Woman figure as one of the biggest retail hits of the year. And at four feet fully extended, he may well have been the largest action figure ever made.

Five decades later, original Stretch Armstrong dolls in good condition can fetch over $1,000 at auction. Not bad for a sack of syrup.

Starting March 30, KitchenAid is rolling out the Artisan Plus Stand Mixer, the most significant update to its iconic tilt-head mixer in more than 70 years. And this isn’t just a cosmetic refresh.

The new model introduces several first-of-its-kind features designed to make baking easier, cleaner and more precise, whether you’re whipping cream or tackling a batch of homemade dough.

One of the biggest upgrades is the precision speed control. Instead of jumping between fixed speeds, users can now smoothly adjust settings to get the exact texture they want.

If you prefer the old ways, there are also preset speeds for consistency, including a new ½ fold speed that gently mixes delicate ingredients like berries or egg whites without overworking them.

The mixer also features an expanded 11-speed range and a soft-start function that gradually ramps up power, helping keep ingredients in the bowl and minimizing splatter.

Another standout addition is the built-in LED bowl light, a first for the brand, which makes it easier to see exactly what’s happening as you mix (no more guessing if everything is fully incorporated).

And if you’ve ever stopped mid-recipe to scrape the bowl, you’ll appreciate the new double flex edge beater, designed to continuously scrape the sides so you don’t have to.

Beyond performance, the Artisan Plus still delivers on the durability KitchenAid is known for, with premium stainless steel, dishwasher-safe accessories and compatibility with its popular hub-powered attachments—from pasta makers to ice cream makers.

The mixer launches in four new colors—including Sundried Tomato and Wild Blueberry—alongside fan-favorite shades.

The KitchenAid Artisan Plus Stand Mixer will be available nationwide starting March 30 for $600.

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Spring calls for clothing that moves with you, offers breathable coverage, and looks effortlessly put-together, whether you're curled up at home or stepping out for errands. The key is finding pieces that are comfy and stylish, and we found the perfect solution at Walmart. Right now, the retailer has its bestselling Mintreus Lounge Set marked down to as low as $18, a solid savings from its original $31 price tag. 

This set is a relaxed short-sleeved combo that you can wear in and out of the house all year-round. It has a top with a crew neckline and side slits, and is paired with comfortable long pants complete with an elastic waistband and handy side pockets.

Mintreus Lounge Set, From $18 (was $31) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Made from soft, lightweight rayon fabric, this set is the perfect balance between pajama comfort and street-ready style. The oversized fit and side slit details look great on all body types, while the high-stretch material ensures you can move freely without feeling restricted. Choose from an impressive 32 colors and prints, with sizes ranging from small to 2XL.

The Walmart find has racked up over 3,700 glowing five-star reviews, so it's obvious that shoppers adore this set. One customer raved that while it's great for relaxing at home, the "absolutely amazing" set can also be worn out with some smart styling. "Dress them up with a little bit of jewelry and a cute sandal, and I'm ready to go. I actually just ordered two more pairs in different colors. They're so buttery soft and cool."

This shopper isn't the only one who loved the set so much that they stocked up on multiple pairs: "The fabric is stretchy but not clingy. Very flattering as it does not show bumps or any imperfections. I get so many compliments on it. I have it in four colors."

Related: Walmart’s 'Sturdy' $33 Rolling Clothes Rack Is a 'Great Option for Small Spaces'

The rayon fabric gets particularly praise from customers for its subtle cooling effect, which is great for those who tend to run hot at times. As a bonus, the set is machine washable, so it'll be easy to maintain throughout countless wears in the years ahead.

For as low as $18, the Mintreus Lounge Set delivers serious value for a piece that can easily transition from bedtime to coffee runs. Grab your favorite color combination while it's marked down at Walmart. This can't-miss deal will only last for a limited time, and the loungewear duo may sell fast at this price!

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Beloved global music icon Celine Dion is celebrating a major birthday milestone on March 30, 2026.

Dion turns 58 today, marking another incredible year in a career that has spanned decades and cemented her status as one of the most powerful and recognizable voices in music. Born in Quebec, Canada in 1968, she rose from humble beginnings to become an international superstar.

Renowned for her soaring vocals and emotional performances, Dion has sold more than 200 million records worldwide, making her the best-selling Canadian recording artist and one of the best-selling artists of all time. Her ability to connect with audiences across generations has made her a defining figure in pop music.

Disney fans will recognize her unforgettable duet "Beauty and the Beast" with Peabo Bryson, which won both a Grammy Award and an Academy Award. She later recorded "How Does a Moment Last Forever" for the live-action Beauty and the Beast, further cementing her connection to the beloved classic. Dion has also appeared in Muppets Most Wanted and performed during Disney’s holiday celebrations at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Throughout her career, Dion has earned countless accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and global recognition for her vocal power and technical precision. Her influence extends far beyond chart-topping hits, as she has helped shape the landscape of modern pop ballads.

In recent years, Dion has continued to inspire fans around the world with her resilience, artistry and enduring passion for music.

On Dion's 58th birthday, her legacy remains as one of the greatest voices of all time continues to shine, proving her music and impact are truly timeless.

RELATED: ’90s Model Goes Makeup-Free—and Looks Absolutely Stunning in New Ad

Today in 1964, a game show premiered that would forever raise the bar for fast-paced fun and audience excitement.

Jeopardy! debuted on March 30, 1964. The series quickly set a new standard for smart, fast-paced competition that continues to define game shows today.

According to the Museum of Play, the series was developed by talk show host Merv Griffin. He reportedly shared his dismay with his wife, Julann, about the lack of game shows that had question and answer responses.

Networks had moved away from that format after the 1950s, after many shows were accused of giving contestants the answers before the show. According to PBS, "The scandal did trigger amendments passed to the Communications Act in 1960. One amendment made it illegal for the outcomes of any contests of skill or knowledge, including quiz shows, to be put forward in any way that was pre-arranged. Another amendment required stations to make it clear on the air when money or other consideration has been received for broadcast material."

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Julann had an idea for a new type of quiz show that gave contestants the answers, and they had to respond with the question. This element put a spin on the format and made it difficult for any type of cheating.

Griffin then took that idea and created a gameboard with 10 categories. The original name was What’s the Question?

RELATED: ‘Jeopardy!’ Fans Cringe After Contestants Can’t Name Legendary Actor’s Cameo on Children’s Show: ‘Millennials’

However, NBC executives were reportedly not enthused. According to the Museum of Play, Ed Vane told Griffin, “The game needs more jeopardies.” Thus, the series' current name was born.

Hosts of Jeopardy! included Art Fleming, Alex Trebek, Mike Richards, Mayim Bialik, and the series current host, Ken Jennings.

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RELATED: ‘Jeopardy!’ Star Ken Jennings Stumped by Unexpected Question

According to the official Jeopardy! Leaderboard, Jennings is the leader in consecutive game wins with 74. He is also at the top when it comes to highest winnings for regular season play at $2,520,700.

Jeopardy! airs weeknights in syndication.

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The Mary Jane style has made a comeback the last few years, and we're pretty confident it's here to stay. The footwear ditches the heel for comfortability, while also being remarkably fashionable in the most simple way. Thanks to Amazon's Big Spring Sale, you can now shop incredible shoe styles like sneakers, sandals, and, most importantly, Mary Jane flats, at unbelievable prices

The Cushionaire Windsor Woven Flats are up to 56% off right now, marking them as the lowest price in 90 days. The shoe initially cost $80, but has been reduced to as low as $35 in the burgundy colorway. You can shop the style in five other hues: black, brown, cognac, navy, and cream. The cognac color is just $40, making it the second highest discount offer, while the rest of the colors are still on sale, but being sold for $48. 

Cushionaire Windsor Woven Flats, From $35 (was $80) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The available sizes range from 6 to 11, including half and wide sizes. Several shoppers feel that the shoes are true to size, but others insist that they run small. Therefore, we recommend utilizing the size chart in the product description to aid you in the buying decision. The shoe design features a round toe, flat heel, and geometric pattern that's both unique and adds texture to any outfit. The strap on the top of the foot can be adjusted for your comfort.

Cushionaire Windsor Woven Flats, From $35 (was $80) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

The flats consist of a leather outer with a cotton insole and synthetic rubber sole. Shoppers say that they're "very comfortable" and "perfect" for any work setting where you're walking often (one elementary school teacher loves them). Plus, another reviewer said that there were no signs of blisters, even on the first wear. 

Related: Amazon Has a 'Stylish' Side Table With Extra Storage on Sale for $31, and It's 'Perfect' for Small Spaces

Other customers described the style as "super cute," adding that they're the "best summer shoe." They're particularly loved because they're "extremely versatile," "go with anything," and can be used for any and every occasion. Sport them with everything from your favorite trousers to your new flowy dress. 

Shop More Deals

• Dream Pairs Foldable Ballet Flats, $27 (was $35) at Amazon
• Steve Madden Possession Sneaker, $60 (was $100) at Amazon
• Toms Valencia Espadrille, $58 (was $85) at Amazon

This is one of those styles that you'll put a lot of use into for years to come. This 56% off Amazon deal won't last long though — add these adorable Mary Jane flats to your cart while you can! 

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.

After almost a decade away, the beloved music group The Band Perry is back and welcoming a new era of sound. The band returned with their latest single titled “Psychological,” which came out on Feb. 13.

It's The Band Perry's first new song since 2019's "Nite Swim," and it heralds what lead singer Kimberly Perry calls “Season Two” of the group’s career. In a big change from the original lineup consisting of the Perry siblings, the group now includes Kimberly and her husband, Johnny Costello.

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The band originally broke onto the country scene in the late 2000s with a string of hits, including the No. 1 classic “If I Die Young,” that made them one of the genre’s most popular acts. They earned multiple hit singles and other accolades, including a Grammy Award and several Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music Awards.

After The Band Perry's initial success, they experimented with pop music in the mid‑2010s and eventually went on hiatus in 2023 as the members decided to pursue solo projects and other endeavors. Kimberly released her own EP, Bloom, and her first solo album, Superbloom, in 2023.

One of Kimberly's brothers, Neil Perry, decided not to return with The Band Perry in 2025, and while her other brother, Reid, initially came back to the group, he announced his official departure in October 2025.

Related: 1986 Rock Classic Was a Legendary Band’s First No. 1 40 Years Ago Today

In an interview with People, Kimberly addressed the new era for The Band Perry, saying, "There's a lot of changes that our band has had over the years... but one thing that's always remained the same, [is] this has been a family band rooted in the Appalachian Mountains in East Tennessee."

She also shared that Reid is currently working in artist management, while Neil is working on "solo work," as Kimberly described it, sharing no other details.

As for what fans of The Band Perry can expect from the new iteration of the group, Kimberly told the publication that the band's new music is "something that feels relevant and cool and perfectly seated in 2026 in country music."

Related: ‘If I Die Young’ Band Announces New Tour After Years Away

In the mid- 1970s, novelty hits ruled the radio. Oddball hits such as “The Streak,” “Convoy,” and “Disco Duck” topped the charts. There was even a hit that paid homage to the top movie of 1975 during its iconic run. Dickie Goodman’s“Mr. Jaws” was radio’s answer to the summertime blockbuster, Jaws.

The radio hit, which featured clips from popular songs to answer questions about the year’s top movie, soared to No. 4 on Billboard’s Hot 100 in October 1975, four months after the Steven Spielberg classic was released. “Mr. Jaws” ranked just under David Bowie’s “Fame” on the Billboard chart that fall.

Many songs were sampled in ‘Mr. Jaws’

“Mr. Jaws" parodied Jaws with interviews conducted by “reporter” Goodman that were answered with musical clips taken from popular songs of the time. The music producer “interviewed” the famous movie shark, along with main characters, Police Chief Martin Brody, marine biologist Matt Hooper, and ship captain Quint.

In one snippet, Goodman asks oceanographer Matt Hooper (played by Richard Dreyfuss in the film), “Sir, if someone is attacked by a shark, what should they do?” The response: The “Do the hustle” lyric from Van McCoy’s 1975 disco hit.

Other song clips included in “Mr. Jaws” included “Love Will Keep Us Together" by the Captain & Tennille, "Rhinestone Cowboy" by Glen Campbell, "One Of These Nights" by the Eagles, "Jive Talkin'" by the Bee Gees, and "Why Can't We Be Friends" by War.

RELATED: The Wild Story About “Convoy,’ The Novelty Song That Hit No. 1 in 1976

Goodman explained how he pulled off his parodies

“Mr. Jaws” came nearly 20 years after Goodman released his first novelty parody, "The Flying Saucer Part I” with partner Bill Buchanan. He went on to parody King Kong, Star Wars, Superman, E.T., and more.

In a radio interview posted by the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association, Goodman looked back on his career.

“I had a thing back in ’56 called 'The Flying Saucer,'” he said of his start. “I forget exactly how it came about, ...All of a sudden, we think wouldn't it be funny if something started to be interrupted by reports of a flying saucer, and then a record came in, doing the lines and back in forth. I was with this other fella at the time, we start to put it together, and it sounded a little bit funny. Did it actually work? Sure. And every big company in the business turned us down, so we had to put it out ourselves.”

Goodman was sued for copyright infringement a few times, but the lawsuits never went anywhere.

“A couple of people that started to sue, and then they found out that well, just doesn't make any sense,” he said. “Because we’re really allowed to do it. Now we make sure that we do is very, very little [sampling]. As long as it’s short enough where nobody confuses it with the original record nobody, could say, ‘Hey, isn't that that record?’ This way it goes by so quick that everybody, they know it’s something different.”

Goodman shared that he would go through all of the popular songs at the time and pick samples that would fit the theme. “Before you know it you have a story around it,” he said.

The producer said he spent eight to 10 hours in the studio with one engineer to create his records.

Following the massive success of “Mr. Jaws,” Goodman released a follow-up titled “Mrs. Jaws,” which came out when the Jaws 2 sequel was released in 1978.

Goodman recorded so many novelty hits that his official website features a photo of an official Guinness World Record declaration that he holds the most Billboard chart entries for novelty/comedy records, with 17 total since 1956.

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For decades, Kenny Rogers had a rare gift for turning life’s quietest moments into unforgettable stories that stayed with listeners long after the music stopped. One of his greatest hits, a 1981 tearjerker, did just that.

"Through the Years" was a different type of love song. It didn't speak of a new love, but rather, one that had moved through time.

Instead of focusing on love’s giddy highs, it reflected on what life would feel like without a longtime partner. It also captured the quiet, powerful choice to stay together through it all.

Marty Panzer and Steve Dorff wrote “Through the Years.” Panzer explained his inspiration for the Rogers smash hit to American Songwriter.

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“I realized that there were a hundred (if not a thousand) songs about falling in love, memorable affairs, losing love, regrets, and the pain of lost love,” Panzer said. “But I couldn’t think of a song that spoke about the great joys and benefits of long-term relationships."

He continued, "The only relationships I knew and valued. That’s why I wrote the lyric to ‘Through The Years.’”

RELATED: 1980 Doomed Country Duet Turned Into a Big Hit For Kenny Rogers

Dorff added, “’Through The Years’ holds a very dear place in the scope of my songwriting career. It’s one of two of my songs that have eclipsed 5 million broadcast performances."

"Having the great Kenny Rogers be the one who made the song a standard is so special to me. It’s been recorded now over 50 times in seven different languages by artists throughout the world.”

"Through The Years" was reportedly first pitched to Lionel Richie and initially passed on by Rogers. During a meeting at the country superstars' home, Richie, who had already scored a 1980 hit with Rogers, "Lady," played him the song.

“Lionel said, ‘Let me play something that I’m gonna record, and if you like it, at least I’ll have a better direction of where to go,’” Dorff told American Songwriter. “He started to play my demo, ‘Through the Years.’"

RELATED: 49 Years Ago, a Single-Word Country Hit Broke Hearts and Conquered the Charts

He concluded, "Kenny’s wife at the time was coming through the room at Kenny’s house. She heard the chorus and walked over to Kenny and said, ‘You’re recording that one.’”

"Through The Years" would chart at No. 13 on the Billboard Top 100 and No. 5 on the Hot Country Chart.

Kenny Rogers died in March 2020 at 81.

NEXT: 47 Years Ago, a Gritty Love Song Hit No. 1—And Became an Instant Classic

I am currently sailing Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Norwegian Luna. I’ve sailed on NCL multiple times, on various types of ships from the smallest in the fleet to the largest in the fleet. On this sailing, however, I’ve gotten to experience something incredibly special–staying in The Haven. The Haven is a luxury-option onboard, where it’s almost treated as an entirely separate area of the ship. If you book a Haven room, you receive access to special Haven areas of the ship, concierge and butler service, and the rooms are much more upscale than the other options onboard.

Now, since I usually don’t stay in The Haven, I will say that I’ve truly always enjoyed my rooms onboard NCL, all the way from an interior studio cabin to a regular-sized balcony cabin. However, cruising in The Haven was like an entirely different experience. It was like I had the option of sailing on two different ships all at one time–a small, luxury vessel and a large, bustling, young and lively mega-ship. In this article, I’m going to dive into 5 big reasons why you should book The Haven on NCL.

Related: Norwegian Luna Welcomes First Guests Ahead of Miami Debut

View this post on Instagram 1. You Get Private Elevators The Haven elevators onboard the NCL Luna

Melissa Cabey

This may sound completely arbitrary, but trust me–it’s not. The Haven has its own private elevator shaft that goes up to all of The Haven level decks as well as the three decks that span the atrium. You have to scan your key card to get the lift, that way only people staying in The Haven even have access to calling an elevator. On a larger ship like the Norwegian Luna, this was a game-changer. The regular elevator areas tend to get quite packed, and stop at nearly every floor to accommodate all of the people calling the elevator. This happens often during high-traffic times, like the dinner or showtime rush. Having The Haven elevators, however, completely allows you to skip any of that aggravation. 

These elevators are located far aft, making it incredibly convenient to have an elevator closer to the Haven rooms, which are aft as well. This location worked perfectly, as I was able to pop down to the main dining room, the Indulge Food Hall, and the shopping deck within less than a minute. Overall, I found that navigating around the ship was a much smoother experience when staying in The Haven.

Related: 3 Cool Things Everyone Misses on a Norwegian Cruise, According to a Former Crew Member

2. Private Dining and Bars

Melissa Cabey

While I absolutely love eating in the main food areas and hanging out in the busy, lively bars onboard–sometimes you want the option of a different experience. On the Luna, if you go up The Haven elevators to deck 16, you will find yourself in The Haven Lounge. This area is absolutely stunning–it’s very similar to the Observation Lounge that’s at the front of the ship. It has tons of different types of seating arrangements, where you could work, cozy up and read a book, have a business meeting, or enjoy a drink. It’s a large space, allowing you to decompress. 

Inside this area, there is a beautiful indoor bar where you can get craft cocktails created for you. You also never have to scan your card when you’re up there, because the staff knows you’re in The Haven, and your drinks are covered.

Private bar onboard the NCL Luna in The Haven

Melissa Cabey

There is also an entire restaurant that is dedicated to people staying in The Haven. Dining here feels very similar to dining onboard a luxury cruise line–like Regent Seven Seas, which I’ve been on. The service is very thoughtful, intricate, and elevated. Plus, the food offerings are absolutely delicious. I went for breakfast one morning, and had some of the best eggs Benedict I’ve had on a ship. 

They were also to accommodate my gluten allergy very easily, and all of the waiters knew before I even sat down–so I didn’t have to ask to get dishes made gluten-free, they just did it immediately! I decided to try out The Haven restaurant for dinner as well, and it was just as lovely. I was able to order a ton of appetizers, a delicious main, and they even brought a gluten-free cheesecake at the end.

3. Special Accommodations For Shows And Other Things Onboard

When you’re a Haven guest onboard NCL, you are almost treated like royalty. I went off of the ship to explore a port, and when I came back, there was a concierge holding up a sign that said “Haven guests here”. I told him I was Haven, and he escorted me to completely bypass the line of passengers waiting to take the elevator up into the main area of the ship. He led me to another elevator, where another concierge was waiting, and he took me directly to my stateroom. It somewhat felt like I was a celebrity onboard–and hey, I’m not complaining!

For the shows that are performed in the main theatre onboard, the entertainment staff will block off a section that is specifically for The Haven guests. You can access the area early by letting the concierge in The Haven lounge know, and you will get to secure up-close seats for the shows. The wait staff will also pay extra attention to you if you’re seated in The Haven section, making sure you have what you need before the show starts.

4. Luxurious Amenities in Staterooms View this post on Instagram

It almost goes without saying, but the staterooms in The Haven are absolutely next-level. I stayed in the lowest tier Haven suite, and still, it was incredible. First and foremost, it’s incredibly spacious. There were two different sitting areas to relax, work, read or lay out your choices of outfits for dinner like I did (haha!). The amount of storage feels almost illegal for a cruise ship room. Under the bed, there are special doors that open for you to slide your suitcase in, keeping it out of sight while you’re on vacation. There are endless amounts of drawers and shelves to put all of your things as well, keeping you nice and organized for your trip.

One of my favorite things in my Haven suite was the bathroom. It is large, with two sinks, a separate area for the toilet, and a stunning shower. Showering here felt like a spa-like experience. There is a waterfall shower head that can be adjusted to just the right temperature, a seat to sit on, and also a handheld shower head as well. You can use L’Occitane products that are provided in the shower, and let me tell you, they smell absolutely amazing.

Related: How I Pack for a 7-Day Cruise With a Single Carry-On

5. Private Pool Deck Infinity pool on the NCL Luna in The Haven

What really sealed the deal here for me was the private pool deck in The Haven. It’s right outside the lounge, and has its own bar, showers, sauna, ice room, hot tubs, infinity pool, and various loungers to relax on. It spans two stories, and there is relaxing music that plays, giving you an upscale resort-like experience when relaxing on the deck.

The infinity pool was my absolute favorite. There were both shallow and deep areas to relax in, allowing you to keep cool while laying out in the sun. If you swim all the way to the edge, you can peer over the back of the ship, and see down to Ocean Boulevard, one of the gorgeous areas on Norwegian Luna’s deck 8. After swimming in the pool, you can take a rest on padded lounge chairs that look right out onto the sea. These chairs are adjustable, so you can lay completely flat, or sit up to read a book. Plus, while you’re relaxing, the wait staff will bring you anything you’d like.

So, Is the Haven on Norwegian Cruise Line Really Worth It?

Of course, the "Haven life" comes with a price tag that can often double or triple the cost of a standard balcony cabin. If your cruise style is all about being in the thick of the action—think poolside belly-flop contests and late-night buffet runs with the masses—spending the extra thousands to stay in a quiet enclave might actually feel a little too removed from the energy of the ship.

The Haven is a spectacular specialized alchemy of privacy and service, but it’s an investment in a specific kind of peace. If you’re celebrating a milestone or simply value your sanity over a crowded elevator, the math usually checks out. But if you'd rather spend that "splurge" money on five more cruises in a standard room? That’s a choice only you can make for your own bucket list.

Related: I Got a First Look at the New Norwegian Luna–Here’s What Impressed Me Most

Ever notice someone who looks much older than their years and wonder what happened? It might not be polite to say that out loud, but we’ve all likely thought it. And maybe we’ve thought it about ourselves sometimes, too? (Raises somewhat wrinkly hand!)

Well, it's usually not genetics or bad luck—it's often one daily habit they've been doing for decades without realizing the cumulative damage. The tricky part is that this habit doesn't show consequences immediately. You don't wake up one day with wrinkles after doing it once. Instead, the effects compound silently over years, breaking down your skin's structure bit by bit until one day you look in the mirror and suddenly look ten years older than you feel.

What makes this particularly frustrating is how preventable it is. We're not talking about expensive treatments, complicated routines or genetic factors you can't control. This is something entirely within your power to change today that will determine how your skin looks a decade from now. The dermatologists we consulted see this pattern constantly in their practices—patients who've invested in every serum and treatment but completely neglected the one thing that would have made the biggest difference.

We asked board-certified dermatologists to identify the single habit that ages skin faster than anything else. Their answer was unanimous.

Related:11 Best Skin-Tightening Moisturizers, According to Celebrity Derms

The #1 Habit That Makes Skin Look Older, According to 4 Dermatologists

Out of four dermatologists we consulted, all identified the same culprit without hesitation: skipping sunscreen.

Dr. Whitney Hovenic, double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, declares that it's hands-down "the number one habit I see that ages my patients' skin faster than anything else."

UV radiation breaks down elements of the skin, contributes to hyperpigmentation and creates the fine lines and leathery texture that make skin look years older than it actually is. What surprises most people is that "even on cloudy days or when you're mostly indoors, UVA rays can penetrate windows and contribute to cumulative skin damage over time," Hovenic explains.

"UV exposure breaks down collagen and elastin, the structural proteins that keep skin firm and smooth," Dr. Brendan Camp adds, leading to premature wrinkles, fine lines, discoloration and loss of elasticity. The truly insidious part? "Even short daily exposures without protection can accumulate and lead to skin that appears older than a person's chronological age."

Dr. Nicole Lee, board-certified dermatologist and owner of Epoch Dermatology, agrees that the damage is sneaky. It's not dramatic beach vacations that do the most harm—it's "the incidental daily exposure (like commuting, walking outside or sitting near windows)" that accumulates and majorly accelerates skin aging. And if you think you can just head to a tanning bed instead, Dr. Chang Son added that artificial tanning "only multiplies these same risks."

Related: The 10 Best Makeup and Skincare Gifts for Women Over 50 From Our 49-Year-Old Beauty Editor

What Other Habits Make Skin Look Older?

Getty Images

Beyond sun exposure, several lifestyle factors accelerate visible aging—and some might surprise you.

Smoking appears on every expert's list as a major accelerator. Camp explains it "restricts blood flow to the skin and introduces oxidative stress that damages collagen and elastin," while Hovenic notes that not getting enough sleep shows up as "dullness, puffiness and accelerated breakdown of collagen" since your body doesn't have time to repair itself overnight.

Lee introduces a concept most people haven't heard of: inflammaging. "Over-exfoliating, smoking, poor sleep and diet all contribute to the concept known as inflammaging, which is when low-grade chronic inflammation contributes to the accelerated aging of the skin," she explains. Camp adds that diet plays a bigger role than people realize—high consumption of processed foods and sugar promotes glycation, "a process that weakens collagen fibers."

In addition, untreated skin conditions like rosacea contribute to premature aging, as does "repetitive use of certain facial muscles—like frequent frowning—which can deepen expression lines and lead to the formation of wrinkles over time." Hovenic emphasizes that "not moisturizing consistently is also underrated; dehydrated skin emphasizes fine lines and loses the plump, healthy look that keeps skin appearing fresh and youthful."

Related: 16 Best Wrinkle Creams, Tested by Celebrity Dermatologists

What Causes Skin Aging?

There's aging you can control and aging you can't. All four dermatologists describe skin aging as falling into two categories: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic aging is the genetically programmed process where skin gradually produces less collagen and elastin, cell turnover slows and we lose volume in the face. "Not much can be done to directly address intrinsic factors," Dr. Son says.

Extrinsic aging is where you have power. This is damage driven by environmental and lifestyle factors like UV exposure, pollution, smoking and diet. Photoaging accounts for a large proportion of the visible changes people associate with aging skin. The result, as Dr. Son describes it, is volume loss, elastosis (sagging) and superficial pigmentary and vascular changes in the skin.

The combination of both intrinsic and extrinsic factors ultimately determines how our skin ages, Hovenic says, but addressing extrinsic factors can make a meaningful difference in how skin looks and feels over time.

Related:A Celebrity Makeup Artist Reveals if You Should Use Concealer or Foundation First (You Might Be Surprised!)

How To Prevent Aging Skin

Prevention combines daily protection with strategic active ingredients and lifestyle choices.

The foundation is consistent across all experts: daily sunscreen, a gentle cleanser and moisturizer. From there, Hovenic strongly recommends "incorporating a retinoid, which is one of the most well-studied ingredients for stimulating collagen production and supporting healthy cell turnover." Camp also suggests adding "antioxidants such as vitamin C to help neutralize free radical damage."

Of course, professional treatments can amplify results. Hovenic mentions fractionated laser treatments that "create controlled microthermal zones within the skin" to stimulate collagen production, while Lee says that "lasers, radiofrequency and ultrasound can further stimulate collagen, but they work best when combined with good daily skincare habits."

Lifestyle factors matter just as much as products. The experts say things like staying well hydrated, eating antioxidant-rich foods, managing stress and getting quality sleep all play an important role in maintaining healthy, resilient skin over the long term.

Up Next:

Related: 'SPF Excellence Awards': The 33 Best Sun-Protection Products for 2026

Sources:

• Dr. Whitney Hovenic, double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon, co-founder of SPOOGE sunscreen
• Dr. Brendan Camp, board-certified dermatologist
• Dr. Nicole Lee, board-certified dermatologist and owner of Epoch Dermatology
• Dr. Chang Son, board-certified dermatologist

These days, getting COVID certainly isn’t as fear-inducing as it was in the dark days of 2020. We’re living in a post-vaccine world, and the vast majority of people who contract the virus recover just fine. Despite this, it would be a mistake to think that getting COVID is no big deal.

“The COVID virus is still circulating. It’s still causing hospitalizations and, sadly, deaths,” says Dr. Eric Yager, PhD, an infectious disease expert and associate professor of microbiology at Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. To his point, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, COVID was associated with an estimated 290,000 to 450,000 hospitalizations and between 34,000 and 53,000 deaths between July 2024 and July 2025, the most recent year that data is available.

Related: Doctors Are Seeing a Bizarre New COVID Symptom Right Now

Dr. Yager says that people 65 and older often tend to be hit harder by the COVID virus than younger populations and are at a higher risk for experiencing complications or taking longer to recover. 

Certainly, no one likes being sick, but it’s important to take COVID prevention and recovery seriously no matter how old you are. With this in mind, there’s one common mistake people make when recovering from COVID that prolongs sickness.

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Olha Danylenko

The Common Mistake People Make When Recovering From COVID

Since complications from COVID have become less common, many people think that contracting the virus doesn’t have to mean taking it easy at home anymore. But according to the infectious disease doctors we talked to, attempting to push through COVID sickness can lead to taking longer to recover.

“Our bodies need time to recover from infections like COVID. Trying to ‘power through’ during an infection may make it harder for us to recover. In addition, if you are out in public or at work, you are at risk of actively spreading infection. So it is best to stay home and rest,” says Dr. Wesley Long, MD, Ph.D., the medical director of diagnostic microbiology at Houston Methodist. 

Related: 8 Sneaky Symptoms That You Might Not Realize Are Signs of Long COVID

Dr. Yager explains that COVID causes fatigue because the immune system spends a lot of energy fighting off the virus. This leads to feeling run-down. Both doctors say that people whose immune systems are already compromised due to underlying health conditions tend to feel the most run-down because their immune systems are working extra hard to fight off the virus.

How To Recover From COVID as Quickly as Possible

Both Dr. Yager and Dr. Long say that staying vaccinated for COVID is the best way to hasten recovery if or when you do get COVID. Dr. Yager explains that the vaccine is continually updated based on the virus. Getting the vaccine once a year is a good way to stay vaccinated for the newest mutation of the virus.

“The COVID vaccine doesn’t prevent you from getting COVID, but it is very good at preventing severe outcomes,” Dr. Yager tells Parade.

“The COVID vaccine is still the best way to protect yourself and your friends, family and loved ones from COVID-19. People who are at high risk of severe outcomes from COVID infections are most likely to benefit from vaccination for COVID,” Dr. Long adds.

Related: The #1 Early COVID Sign Most People Miss, According to an Infectious Disease Expert

If you do get COVID, both doctors emphasize the importance of getting adequate rest and staying hydrated, which will help the body fight off the virus more effectively. Dr. Long says that there are also antiviral medications that can shorten the course of the illness. These medications are especially beneficial for people who are immunocompromised or older than 65, both populations that are at increased risk for severe complications from COVID.

Though it may be tempting to power through illness, it’s important to give your body the rest it needs when you’re sick. Otherwise, you’ll end up feeling run-down for longer. The fear-filled pandemic days may be behind us, but it’s still important to take COVID seriously so that you—and others—stay safe.

Up Next:

Related: 5 Traits of Parents Whose Kids Rarely Get Sick, Psychologist Shares

Sources:

• Dr. Eric Yager, PhD, infectious disease expert and associate professor of microbiology at Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
• Respiratory Virus Activity — United States, July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Dr. Wesley Long, MD, PhD, medical director of diagnostic microbiology at Houston Methodist

Audrey Hepburnmay be a Hollywood legend, but her childhood was anything but glamorous. The actress grew up in Nazi-occupied Holland, survived the brutal Hunger Winter of 1944-45 and had to give up the ballet training she loved due to malnutrition. While she dreamed of becoming a professional ballerina someday, she was told it would never happen due to her 5'7" height.

So Hepburn pivoted to acting and starred in some of the most iconic films in history—including Roman Holiday, Sabrina, Breakfast at Tiffany's and My Fair Lady. At just 24 years old, she won an Oscar and is one of only 22 people in history to have reached EGOT status. (She won all four major awards: an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar and a Tony.) But what makes Audrey Hepburn truly extraordinary is what she did next: She walked away from Hollywood to dedicate her life to helping children through UNICEF. She wasn't just a celebrity lending her name to a cause—she was a survivor giving back. And that's why Audrey Hepburn is today's quote of the day.

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Quote of the Day by Audrey Hepburn

"I decided, very early on, just to accept life unconditionally; I never expected it to do anything special for me, yet I seemed to accomplish far more than I had ever hoped. Most of the time it just happened to me without my ever seeking it."

Those words—captured in the 2007 book Audrey Hepburn: A Life in Pictures—reveal a lot about the woman behind the legendary icon. In a world that tells us to hustle hard and meticulously plan our futures, Audrey Hepburn quietly did the opposite. She accepted life as it came, stayed open to whatever was next and the universe took care of the rest.

Related: Quote of the Day: Michael J. Fox on Acceptance

Deeper Meaning of Audrey Hepburn's Quote—Grace

What makes this quote even more powerful is the fact that Hepburn did not have an easy childhood. She was only six years old when her father abandoned their family. As a teenager, she survived Nazi-occupied Holland and saw her brother deported to a labor camp. She almost starved to death during the Hunger Winter of 1944. But somehow, she still chose to meet life with open arms. Talk about resilience.

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When Hepburn said she "never expected life to do anything special," she wasn't being falsely modest—she was being honest. Hepburn never chased fame. In fact, she was discovered after French author Colette spotted her in a Monaco hotel and insisted she play the lead in the Broadway production of Gigi. After that, Hepburn's career exploded: Roman Holiday came next and she won an Oscar at just 24. Suddenly, she was one of the biggest movie stars in the world.

But at the peak of her stardom, she chose a different path and stepped away from Hollywood in order to raise her sons. She became a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador—traveling to Ethiopia, Sudan, Bangladesh and Vietnam to advocate for children living in poverty. She once said, "I auditioned for this job for 45 years and I finally got it."

Audrey Hepburn carries an Ethiopian girl while on her first UNICEF field mission in 1988.

Photo by Derek Hudson on Getty Images

That's the deeper meaning of this quote. Instead of getting stuck in the past or becoming obsessed with her future, Audrey Hepburn accepted life as it happened—the beauty and heartbreak, the wins and losses. She was more than just a movie star; she became a timeless symbol of grace, compassion and quiet strength.

On January 20, 1993, Hepburn passed from cancer at the age of 63. Just weeks before her death, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. And while she may have died more than 30 years ago, her legacy has only grown over time. As she once put it: "If my world were to cave in tomorrow, I would look back on all the pleasures, excitements and worthwhilenesses I have been lucky enough to have had. Not the sadness, not my miscarriages or my father leaving home, but the joy of everything else. It will have been enough."

Audrey Hepburn wasn't just an international movie star—she was also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador who worked tirelessly to advocate for children around the world.

Photo by Ron Galella on Getty Images

More Quotes From Audrey Hepburn

• "Nothing is more important than empathy for another human being's suffering. Nothing. Not a career, not wealth, not intelligence, certainly not status. We have to feel for one another if we're going to survive with dignity."
• "I love people who make me laugh. I honestly think it's the thing I like most, to laugh. It cures a multitude of ills. It's probably the most important thing in a person."
• "Pick the day. Enjoy it—to the hilt. The day as it comes. People as they come. The past, I think, has helped me appreciate the present, and I don't want to spoil any of it by fretting about the future."
• "I never think of myself as an icon. What is in other people's minds is not in my mind. I just do my thing."
• "I was born with an enormous need for affection and a terrible need to give it."

Next, 40 Best Audrey Hepburn Quotes on Love, Life, Beauty and More!