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Chad Powers returned for another touchdown season today, with the South Georgia Catfish playing against different teams in the SEC. But, portraying football programs, like the Florida Gators and star Glen Powell‘s own college team, the Texas Longhorns, on the hit Hulu comedy series is no easy play.

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“Oh no, no. You have to clear this. You have to clear this with every single team,” Powell, the show’s co-creator, tells Parade in an exclusive new interview. “If you notice, [in] the first season we’re playing [Eli Manning‘s] alma mater and [Peyton Manning‘s] alma mater, [showrunner Michael Waldron‘s] alma mater. We have to go to these people individually.”

“It’s not like an easy thing to get clearance on all these things,” he continues. “You’re getting their helmets, you’re getting their jerseys, their actual helmets and jerseys.”

The Catfish play the Florida Gators in the Season 2 premiere

Disney/Daniel Delgado Jr.

And Powell’s beloved Longhorns were no exception.

The actor, who is an Austin native and die-hard Longhorn fan, admits, “I feel like I have the trust of the Longhorns, but it was definitely not easy. Yeah, on every aspect. It’s a big ask to get the real rights to any of these teams.”

Related: Glen Powell Reveals His Kansas City Chiefs Connection in Prepping for ‘Chad Powers’ (Exclusive)

Costar Steve Zahn agrees, explaining that the real college teams want to know what the story is, jokingly wondering, “Are people getting killed?”

Glen admits to Parade that it’s not an “easy thing to get clearance” from real college teams

Disney/Daniel Delgado Jr.

Though it was “a lot easier” to get teams onboard for Season 2.

“Everything across the board was easier in terms of coordinating the football. Now that they know the tone of the show, getting people to participate in it, you have the trust of the teams a lot more,” Powell shares. “They understand what this show is and why people love it, and it’s a celebration of college football.”

Related: Glen Powell Reveals Surprising Role on Glee He Lost to ‘One of My Best Friends’

“There’s nothing to be worried about,” the Top Gun: Maverick actor adds. “No matter if they win or lose, it’s really about the celebration of what college football means to the world.” 

The half-hour comedy “Chad Powers” returned for its second season on Sept. 3

Disney/Daniel Delgado Jr.

Season 2 of Chad Powers, starring Powell, Zahn, Perry Mattfeld, Quentin Plair, Wynn Everett and Frankie Rodriguez, premiered on Sept. 3 and this time around, the cat(fish) is out of the bag. With Ricky now in on quarterback Chad Powers a.k.a. Russ Holliday’s secret, Russ has to rely on her and Danny to keep up the ruse while trying to lead the Catfish to the College Football Playoff.

“It’s not just the attention of the coaches at this point, or the attention of the people around. It’s like the world is now very much paying attention to Chad Powers, and he needs Ricky and Danny to be able to pull this thing off,” Powell says, noting that “the more that people are paying attention to it, the harder it becomes.”

The second season of Hulu’s Chad Powers is just the latest addition to Powell’s growing resume. Behind all his success are two people who have helped him get to where he is today: his mom and dad, Cyndy Powell and Glen Powell Sr., who were present as he chatted with Parade.

“In getting to do this job and getting to do it at this level, it’s a great dream. It’s amazing to dance with the ones who brung you. I’m here because of my parents,” the actor gushes. “I’m here because of my family, and you want to celebrate in all the highs and lows with everybody. That’s why they’re here. Life’s a lot better when they’re around.”

Related: Glen Powell Lands a Career-Defining Role as One of Baseball’s Biggest Icons

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With the temperatures gradually dropping as we transition from summer to fall, the weather is becoming bearable again. From alfresco brunches to intimate gatherings, you can finally enjoy your time outdoors without overheating, profusely sweating, and constantly seeking shade. If you plan on spending all your free time in your backyard from here on out, be sure to have comfortable furniture to elevate your lounging experience. 

There are so many different options to choose from, ranging from sofas to armchairs. One of our favorites is this Nazhura 2-Piece Zero-Gravity Recliner Lounge Chair Set at Amazon, offering luxury comfort at a budget-friendly price. Right now, you can score it on sale for as low as $68 for a limited time. This lounge chair set normally retails between $76 and $90, but most styles are now marked down between $68 and $70, while select styles go up to $81. 

Nazhura 2-Piece Zero-Gravity Recliner Lounge Chair Set, From $68 (was $76) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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This lounge chair set is available in eight solid colors, including black, blue, brown, dark green, gray, khaki, pink, and sky blue. If you want something that feels a bit more playful, you can also choose from four striped styles in black, light blue, navy blue, and yellow. 

Transform your backyard into a relaxing getaway with these chairs. They feature a mesh fabric seat that promotes airflow, which can help prevent you from overheating on warmer days. It’s attached to the frame by small elastic cords, designed to give you a zero-gravity effect. The seat will cradle your body, making you feel like you’re suspended in mid-air. The mesh fabric is weather-resistant, so these chairs should be able to withstand rain and intense sunlight. 

Delivering the utmost comfort, these chairs are equipped with a reclining mechanism, allowing the seat to tilt back up to 160 degrees. Once you find your preferred position, you can lock the seat in place using the levers located on the arms. For additional comfort, these chairs come with a removable headrest so you can prop your head up. 

Nazhura 2-Piece Zero-Gravity Recliner Lounge Chair Set, From $68 (was $76) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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These chairs come with a detachable tray, giving you the ultimate lounging experience. The tray features two cup holders, a phone holder, and a book holder so you can keep all your essentials within arm’s reach and have access to them without having to get up. 

“I love that they’re adjustable, so whether I want to sit up and read or fully recline and unwind, they work perfectly,” one reviewer said. “They’re perfect for the patio, backyard, poolside, or even for bringing to outdoor events.” A second shopper raved that this lounge chair set was “an excellent buy and an excellent product at an excellent price.” They also mentioned that it  “feels like a sophisticated lawn chair that reclines.”

Made of steel, the frame is sturdy and durable with a 300-pound capacity. However, it’s lightweight with a foldable design, so you could easily pack it into the car and bring it along with you to the beach, park, or campgrounds. For size reference, these chairs are 25 inches wide. They’re about 44 inches tall and 33 inches deep when upright, and 34 inches tall and 61 inches deep when fully reclined. 

Shop More Deals 

• Puvasia Oversized Padded Camping Chair, From $90 (was $130) at Amazon
• Coleman Portable Camping Chair, From $40 (was $59) at Amazon
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Related: Wayfair’s 2-Piece Outdoor Dining Chair Set Is 53% Off and Perfect for Fall Patio Nights

From your morning coffee to your evening bonfire, you’ll want to spend all day outdoors lounging on the Nazhura 2-Piece Zero-Gravity Recliner Lounge Chair Set. Head to Amazon and snag it while it’s still on sale starting at just $68 — that’s just $34 per chair! 

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Whether you’re afraid of confrontation or not, it’s never easy to get into it with someone. It doesn’t matter if it’s a heated argument or a slight disagreement; if it’s with someone you know, a conflict can lead to some really harsh things being said. And there are things that, once said, you cannot erase from the other person’s memory, which could spell doom for your friendship, relationship or whatever. And especially in disagreements involving loved ones, you want to really meet them at their level and find empathy to shut down a conflict, rather than just avoiding it or shutting down the conversation without closure.

However, when tensions are high—as they tend to get in an argument—it can be hard to stop talking and think clearly. It can also be tough to even have empathy for the other person, even if you love them. That’s when you want to have some phrases up your sleeve, ready to go, in case you need to employ them on the fly. 

That’s when we turn to experts. In a previous article about phrases to use to shut down arguments, positive psychologist and board-certified behavior analyst Reena B. Patel told Parade several viable options. And one of them is an especially empathetic phrase that will end a conflict while keeping relationships intact. 

Related: Psychologist Says the 1 Phrase That Instantly Shuts Down a Confrontational Person Isn’t What You Might Think

Why It’s Important To Address Conflicts Correctly

Patel shared why disagreements can get so heated and both sides just start saying things they might not mean, or mean to say out loud. And why it’s so important to address conflicts with grace and tact.

“Effective and intentional communication is key,” she previously said. “When you have conflict, and you are ‘word vomiting,’ oftentimes your point is not coming across clearly. Everyone gets on the [defensive] or is even more confused [and] conflicted, [which] creates more conflict.”

There are a lot of times when, as a mature adult, you should just walk away from a disagreement or tussle. Maybe you’re driving and someone made you miss your light, or maybe it’s at a concert and a stranger is being belligerent with you. Or maybe it’s such a trivial issue that you know you’re better off moving along, picking your battles wisely. But especially if your safety is potentially at risk, avoiding a conflict entirely is the best option. 

Related: Psychologist Says if You Go Quiet When You’re Upset, You Likely Have These 7 Traits

But in instances that involve people you know, especially family, friends and significant others, you don’t want to get used to being avoidant regarding hard issues. Patel told Parade that if a conversation needs to be had in scenarios like this one, then it’s better to get it over with. 

“If it’s an important issue to you and is affecting you personally, both your mental health and well-being, then it’s time to talk,” she stated. “Holding it in and letting it go can create the least amount of conflict in the moment, but resentment will build, and it could create a bigger issue and bigger blowup later on.”

The Empathetic Phrase To Use in a Conflict, According to a Psychologist

While there are several things you can say that can end a conflict then and there, one really stood out as highly empathetic: “I understand where you are coming from, but I think differently.”

At first glance, maybe this seems like an “agree to disagree” statement, but it does a bit more than that age-old (and somewhat frustrating) adage.

“You are showing empathy here by saying you understand, but the key part of this statement is that you are not agreeing with them,” Patel said. “You are acknowledging their thoughts and feelings but holding your own line.”

Related: Psychologist Says the 1 Phrase That Instantly Shuts Down a Nosy Person Isn’t What You Might Think

Instead of dismissing them by saying, “Let’s just decide we can’t see eye-to-eye and move along,” this phrase is gentler and finds common ground with the other person. Validating someone’s fears or beliefs, when you’re able to, is always a good place to start, even if you think differently than they do. 

This statement not only validates them, but also shares that you’re not in agreement with them, so that you don’t just bend to their side of things. But it should shut down conflict by letting them know you’re no longer down for a conversation that is turning into a fight. And that you want to respect everyone involved, including yourself and your relationship with this person. It’s rather mature and hopefully is received with courtesy. If not, it’s a good thing to end on as you walk away, squashing the animosity completely. 

Up Next:

Related: We Asked 4 Psychologists the One Phrase That Escalates Every Argument—They All Said the Same Thing

Source:

• Reena B. Patel is a licensed educational psychologist, parenting expert and board-certified behavior analyst.

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Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for an easy way to elevate everyday meals, elegant stoneware dishes can bring a little more style to your table. The right set should look presentable enough for special occasions while still being durable and practical enough for daily use. A square design can also add a modern touch, offering a fresh alternative to traditional round porcelain or ceramic dishes.

The Vesteel 12-Piece Square Stoneware Dish Set is a particularly unique option for adding some unexpected charm to your dining routine. Right now, it’s on sale for 39% off at Walmart, bringing the price down from $90 to just $55. Since the set includes enough dinnerware for four people, that’s a solid value if you’re looking to refresh your tableware without spending a fortune.

Vesteel 12-Piece Square Stoneware Dish Set, $55 (was $90) at Walmart 

Courtesy of Walmart

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Available in forest green, ocean blue, and seashell white, the set features a soft square shape and a double reactive glaze that gives each piece subtle variations in color. The handcrafted rims add a rustic, artisanal feel, while the distinctive finish can make everything from a casual weeknight dinner to a more elaborate meal look a little more special. The 12-piece collection includes four 9.8-inch dinner plates, four 7.2-inch salad plates, and four 5.6-inch cereal bowls.

The stoneware is designed with durability in mind. It’s made from food-grade stoneware that’s fired at temperatures above 2,340 degrees Fahrenheit, a process that helps harden the material and create a chip- and scratch-resistant finish. The double reactive glazing adds a smooth protective coating that helps improve water and corrosion resistance, while the lead-free and odor-free construction makes the set suitable for everyday meals.

It’s also designed to make cleanup and meal prep easier. The smooth, non-absorbent glazed surface doesn’t easily trap food, so the pieces are simple to clean after meals. They’re also safe for use in the microwave, dishwasher, oven, and freezer, giving you plenty of flexibility when reheating leftovers, storing food, or cleaning up after dinner.

Related: Walmart Has a Fluted Nesting Coffee Table Set With ‘Artisanal’ Style and Hidden Storage for Just $96

The square shape isn’t just about looks, either. Each piece has a nesting design that allows the dishes to stack neatly, helping you make better use of cabinet space. Raised edges give food more room and help reduce spills, while the skid-resistant bottoms provide additional stability on shelves.

One shopper said the set is “elegant, durable, and perfect for everyday use.” They shared, “The finish is smooth and scratch-resistant, and the plates are a generous size. It will add a classy, modern look to my dining table.” Another described them as “beautiful,” adding, “I’m very impressed with the food-grade clay and the double glazing.”

Shop More Deals

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For a stoneware set that’s stylish enough for hosting but practical enough for everyday meals, the Vesteel 12-Piece Square Stoneware Dish Set is a fantastic pick. And with Walmart’s current 39% discount, you can save $35 and bring home a complete set for four for just $55.

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Rising utility bills don’t always point to a problem with your HVAC system. Sometimes, inefficient windows are part of the equation, allowing heat to escape during the winter or unwanted solar heat to enter during the summer. For homeowners considering replacement windows, the decision often comes down to one critical question: Which glass configuration offers the best return on energy savings and long-term home value?

Navigating the differences between single, double and triple-pane glass is daunting. From technical metrics like U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) to fluctuating material costs, homeowners need clarity on cost-effective options.

Whether you are dealing with fogged glass, drafty rooms or outside noise, this guide breaks down pane configurations, installation costs and performance ROI to help you choose the right window pane upgrade for your budget and needs.

Not sure which glass option is right for your home? A professional assessment can help you compare your existing windows with today’s energy-efficient options. Schedule a free in-home consultation with Renewal by Andersen to discuss your home’s needs and receive a personalized estimate.

Single Pane vs. Double Pane vs. Triple Pane: Cost & Performance Breakdown

What is the price and efficiency difference between single, double and triple pane replacement windows?

Single-pane windows offer significantly less insulation than modern double- and triple-pane options. Today, double-pane windows are the new modern standard and cost approximately $300-2,100 per unit installed. In contrast, triple-pane windows provide substantially greater insulation than double-pane windows, although the exact improvement depends on the glass, coatings, gas fill and overall window design.

Choosing the ideal glass package requires balancing upfront installation costs against long-term thermal retention and localized climate demands. Here’s a breakdown of the three different options:

Feature / Metric

Single Pane

Double Pane

Triple Pane

Installed Cost Range

$

$$

$$$

Energy Efficiency

Low

Moderate

High

Sound Dampening (STC)

Low

Moderate

High / Highway Grade

Structural Weight

Light

Standard

~50% Heavier (Requires Strong Frame)

Ideal Application

Unheated structures

Moderate climate zones

Severe winters/summers & noisy roads

The Engineering Behind Modern Glass Packages

While comparing pane counts is important, a window’s true thermal performance relies on what’s happening between the layers. Consider how these two engineering components—specialized surface coatings and insulating gas fills—determine your long-term energy savings.

1. Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Coatings

Low-E is a microscopic metallic oxide layer applied directly to the glass. In cold weather, it reflects indoor radiant heat back inside. In summer, it reflects exterior solar energy outward, maintaining stable interior temperatures.

2. Inert Gas Fills (Argon vs. Krypton)

Air sealed between glass panes allows thermal transfer. Replacing air with dense, non-toxic inert gases slows conductive energy loss:

• Argon Gas: The standard insulator for double-pane windows. Argon is denser than air and provides strong performance at a lower price point.
• Krypton Gas: Denser than Argon, Krypton excels in thinner glass gaps, making it the preferred fill for high-performance triple-pane windows.

Selecting the right combination of Low-E coatings and gas fills ensures your new windows deliver optimal energy efficiency tailored to your regional climate.

Does Triple Pane Glass Pay for Itself?

While double-pane windows fulfill minimum energy codes across most of the country, upgrading to triple-pane glass is beneficial under specific conditions:

• Severe Winter Climates: Triple-pane windows can be particularly valuable in colder regions because their additional insulating layer helps reduce heat transfer and can improve indoor comfort.
• Exterior Noise Abatement: Homeowners living near highways, flight paths or busy suburban corridors benefit from the dampening qualities of three glass layers and dual air spaces.

Note: Because triple-pane units add more weight, maximizing your long-term return requires a rigid composite frame (like Renewal by Andersen’s Fibrex®) that won’t warp or break thermal seals over time.

When Should You Replace Your Windows?

Knowing when to replace your windows prevents costly structural damage and energy loss. Before selecting single-, double- or triple-pane glass, you’ll want to consider some key factors—such as glass seal integrity, structural frame materials and installation methods.

Signs you need an upgrade include condensation or fogging between the glass panes (signaling seal collapse), visible frame rot, sticking sashes, noticeable drafts and steep spikes in monthly heating or cooling costs:

• Structural Frame Rot: Soft, discolored wood along exterior sills signals moisture retention that can damage underlying wall framing over time.
• Seal Failure: Trapped moisture between glass layers means insulating gas has escaped, dropping the window’s thermal barrier significantly.
• Air Infiltration: Perform a candle test along window casings on a windy day. Moving flame or smoke indicates failing weatherstripping or frame gaps.

Frame Materials and Hidden Installation Costs

The choice of glass must also match a capable frame material. Total project costs are driven by frame durability, glass specifications and installation methods:

• Vinyl: Low upfront cost, but prone to expansion and contraction in extreme temperature shifts, potentially stressing glass unit seals over time.
• Wood: Offers classic appeal and natural insulation, but requires ongoing painting, staining, and protection from moisture rot.
• Fibrex® Composite: Used in select Renewal by Andersen products, Fibrex® is a composite material made from reclaimed wood fiber and thermoplastic polymer. It combines the strength and durability of wood with the low-maintenance qualities of vinyl.

Is triple-pane worth the extra investment for your home? Get an accurate estimate from Renewal by Andersen today.

Installation Method: Insert vs. Full-Frame

Even the most energy-efficient glass won’t perform as intended if the window is improperly installed. That’s why homeowners should consider both the product and the installation method when comparing replacement options. Depending on the condition of your current window casings, your contractor may recommend one of two primary replacement approaches:

• Insert (Pocket) Installation: Preserves original interior and exterior casing if existing frames are sound, square and free of rot.
• Full-Frame Replacement: Removes the entire unit down to rough opening studs, allowing installers to repair hidden water rot before setting new units.

How Efficient Glass Pays You Back

Heat loss through inefficient windows accounts for 25% to 30% of residential heating and cooling energy use, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Upgrading to ENERGY STAR® double or triple-pane windows provides immediate benefits:

• Utility Savings: Reduces continuous HVAC runtime during peak winter and summer seasons.
• Resale Value Retention: Returns a significant portion of project costs at resale while increasing buyer appeal.
• Home Comfort & Appeal: New windows can improve curb appeal, comfort and the overall condition of the home.
• State/Local Incentives: Depending on where you live, your utility company or state may offer rebates or other incentives for energy-efficient window upgrades.

Questions To Ask Your Installation Contractor Before Upgrading Windows

To safeguard your investment, you’ll want to vet your installation partners thoroughly. Here are some of the most important questions to ask:

1. “What training or certification does your installation team have?” Ask whether the installers have manufacturer-specific training and what that certification covers. Certified installation helps prevent seal damage and protects warranty terms.
2. “Does your warranty cover glass, frame materials and installation labor?” Ensure non-prorated, long-term coverage across all three components.
3. “How are heavy double and triple-pane units supported during installation?” Verify proper structural anchoring, shimming and flashing protocols.

New Windows From Renewal by Andersen

Renewal by Andersen

Professional window replacement from Renewal by Andersen can help you save money on your utility bills.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) How long do double vs. triple pane replacement windows last?

High-quality replacement windows can last for decades when properly manufactured, installed and maintained. Actual lifespan varies based on the window material, glass package, climate, installation and maintenance. Composite frames like Renewal by Andersen’s Fibrex® (paired with modern double or triple-pane glass) resist warping and seal failure significantly longer than low-grade vinyl options.

Will triple-pane glass make my rooms darker?

Modern Low-E coatings allow clear visible light to enter while reflecting heat rays. Triple-pane glass can have a somewhat lower Visible Transmittance (VT) than some double-pane configurations, although the difference may be difficult to notice in many rooms.

How fast can a full home be updated with replacement windows?

From initial consultation to final install, the entire process takes about 6-8 weeks. Once the actual installation begins, a standard 10 to 20-window project from Renewal by Andersen takes about 1-2 days. Units are custom-manufactured prior to delivery. This helps ensure an airtight fit.

Upgrade Your Home’s Windows Today

Not sure which configuration makes sense for your home? Don’t worry! That’s where a professional assessment can help. Eliminate room drafts, lower monthly utility bills and reduce outside street noise with an upgraded glass package built specifically for your home’s needs.

Request your free, no-obligation estimate from Renewal by Andersen and get expert advice on single, double and triple-pane performance.

Amber Glenn is trading her figure skates for dancing shoes.

The Olympic gold medalist is joining Season 35 of Dancing With the Stars, bringing her theatrical performance style from the ice to the ballroom. Glenn will compete alongside professional partner Pasha Pashkov when the new season of DWTS premieres Sept. 15 and 16.

@littlemissskatergirl

And when she wins the Olympics…#figureskating #iceskating #amberglenn #likeaprayermadonna #usnationals

♬ original sound – ⛸️

Longtime skating fans got a taste of the larger-than-life performance style Glenn will bring to the ballroom at the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in January. Glenn delivered one of the most memorable performances of her career, skating to Madonna’s “Like a Prayer.”

Wearing a dark red outfit reminiscent of the color Madonna wore in the legendary 1989 music video for the song, Glenn delivered a routine that felt bigger than a skating program. From the opening seconds, Glenn attacked the choreography, landing a stunning triple Axel before powering through her triple flip-triple toe combination. She also earned Level 4s on her spins and step sequence, finishing with a score of 83.05.

Glenn’s score was historic, setting a U.S. Championships women’s short-program record, the highest score ever recorded by a U.S. woman at the national championships at the time.

Related: Figure Skating Legend, Known as the Sport’s Ultimate Performer, Shares the Ice With a Perfect Partner

Amber Glenn’s “Like a Prayer” Performance Was a Standout

Beyond the numbers, Amber Glenn’s “Like a Prayer” performance stands out because she fully embraced Madonna’s dramatic 1989 anthem, matching its intensity with powerful skating, sharp choreography and the kind of theatricality that sent viewers straight back to 1989.

That’s the kind of theatricality fans can expect from Amber Glenn when she steps into the ballroom for Dancing With the Stars.

Amber Glenn’s talent on the ice is undeniable, but it’s her ability to completely immerse herself in a character that makes her a natural for Dancing With the Stars, where contestants are judged not just on their technique but also on their performance, musicality and ability to tell a story through movement.

But Glenn’s greatest strength has always been her ability to make the performance feel like more than a collection of jumps, spins and technical elements.

Her “Like a Prayer” program was particularly effective because she didn’t simply skate to the music. She performed it.

Amber Glenn Has Already Been Inspired by Dancing With the Stars View this post on Instagram

Amber Glenn is a longtime fan of the show and has watched other Olympians, including Meryl Davis, compete on Dancing With the Stars.

She’s already chased Olympic gold, and now, instead of chasing another medal on the ice, she’ll put on her dancing shoes and take on an entirely different kind of athletic challenge.

If her “Like a Prayer” performance this January is any indication of what’s to come on the dance floor, Amber Glenn just may be adding Mirrorball Trophy winner to her résumé.

Regardless of the outcome, it’s going to be fun to watch Amber Glenn compete this season on Dancing With the Stars.

Related: Olympic Skating Legend, 62, Who Created Magic at the 1988 Winter Games, Can Still Make the Ice Sing

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During the ’70s, Jackson Browne released several soft rock hits like “Doctor My Eyes” (1972), “Late for the Sky” (1974), and “Running on Empty” (1977).

“Running on Empty,” the first track off the 1977 live album, also titled Running on Empty, secured the number 11 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in April 1978, four months after the release of the record.

American Songwriter reported that Browne may have been influenced by the lack of gasoline in his car’s tank when penning the tune. According to the publication, Browne once told Rolling Stone he “was always driving around with no gas” because his recording studio for the 1976 Pretender album was close to his home.

“I just never bothered to fill up the tank because — how far was it anyway? Just a few blocks,” said the singer-songwriter, now 77.

Bassist Leland Sklar Shared Insight Into the Making of the ‘Running on Empty’ Record in a 2024 Interview

Ultimate Classic Rock reported that the Running on Empty album featured songs performed before concert audiences, as well as wherever Browne saw fit. Leland Sklar, a member of Browne’s band for his fifth album, The Section, shared some insight into making the 1977 record in a 2024 interview with Ultimate Classic Rock.

According to the band’s bassist, “It was kind of like guerrilla warfare, doing Running on Empty.”

“Because it was unlike any other project we’d ever been involved with. I’d done live albums and stuff before. But there was something about that [which was different]. First off, it was all new material, so you had audiences that were hearing things for the first time,” explained the musician, now 79, to the publication. “It wasn’t like you were playing your greatest hits for them. You’re taking them on this new journey. The Section got to open every one of those shows, so we were having a ball. We got to play our a—s off for the whole tour.”

Sklar then said that he once decided to get drunk on the tour, despite rarely consuming alcohol. He recalled being rather inebriated when Jackson unexpectedly invited him and his bandmates to record for the Running on Empty record while they “were in a Holiday Inn or something.”

“We get in there and we’re recording and I thought I was playing my a-s off. Man, I was rockin’. The next day, I heard the tape and it sounded like a chimpanzee had found a bass in a room and was beating it up. I thought, ‘I’m never going to drink again. This is the most embarrassing, horrible thing I’ve ever done.’ It was a funny moment,” said Sklar with a laugh.

Harry Nilsson’s “Without You” remains one of the most powerful heartbreak songs decades after its 1971 release. 

The emotional ballad, originally written by Badfinger members Peter Ham and Tom Evans, became a worldwide hit through Nilsson’s soaring performance.

The song was ranked No. 497 on Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” list in the magazine’s 2021 edition, which was updated in 2024. The ranking placed Nilsson’s version among hundreds of songs chosen through votes from artists, musicians, producers, critics and other music industry figures.

Nilsson did not write “Without You.” Badfinger’s Peter Ham and Tom Evans wrote the song, which the group first released on its 1970 album No Dice. The original recording was not released as a single in North America or Europe, so it did not immediately become a major hit.

Unspecified – 1970: Harry Nilsson performing on ‘The Smothers Brothers Summer Show’. (Photo by Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images)

According to Smooth Radio, Nilsson heard Badfinger’s recording at a party in Laurel Canyon in 1971. At first, he thought the song was by The Beatles. After learning that it was not, he decided to record his own version.

The song became part of Nilsson’s album Nilsson Schmilsson, with Richard Perry serving as producer. Nilsson initially had a darker idea for the song, but Perry pushed him toward a much bigger arrangement. The finished recording featured piano, drums, bass, acoustic guitar, strings and French horns.

Rolling Stone quoted Nilsson explaining why he recorded the song: “We did it because my career was on the wane and we wanted something to make a hit.”

The strategy worked.

“Without You” became Nilsson’s only song to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. It spent four weeks at the top of the U.S. chart and also reached No. 1 in the United Kingdom, where it stayed there for five weeks.

The single also topped charts in countries including Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand and the Philippines. The recording earned Nilsson a Grammy nomination for Record of the Year. In 1973, he won the Grammy for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male.

American Songwriter also highlighted “Without You” in a May 2026 list of 1970s rock songs known for their emotional singing. It described Nilsson’s recording as one of the decade’s most emotionally powerful soft-rock songs.

The impact of “Without You” did not end with Nilsson’s chart success.

The song has been recorded by more than 180 artists, with versions by performers such as Air Supply, Shirley Bassey, Glen Campbell, T.G. Sheppard and Mariah Carey.

Carey’s version became another major international success in 1994. Her recording was based on Nilsson’s version rather than Badfinger’s original. It reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and became her first No. 1 single in the United Kingdom.

Badfinger’s Ham and Evans also received recognition for writing “Without You.” In 1972, they received the Ivor Novello Award for Best Song Musically and Lyrically.

Although “Without You” became one of Nilsson’s signature recordings, there was one unusual part of its history: Nilsson almost never performed live.

He was known as a singer who was heard but rarely seen on stage. His career was built largely inside the recording studio, where he could use layered vocals and detailed arrangements.

That changed in September 1992.

Nilsson unexpectedly joined Ringo Starr and his All-Starr Band on stage at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. It became the first and last time he performed “Without You” at a concert.

Todd Rundgren, who was part of the All-Starr Band, remembered the performance as a special moment. Nilsson’s voice was no longer the clear, high voice heard on the 1971 recording, but his delivery still carried the emotion of the song.

The appearance was especially significant because Nilsson died less than two years later. He had suffered a heart attack in 1993 and died from heart failure in January 1994.

Nilsson won two Grammy Awards during his career, including one for “Without You.” Rolling Stone later placed him at No. 62 on its 2015 list of the “100 Greatest Songwriters of All Time.”

More than 50 years after Nilsson recorded “Without You,” the song continues to appear in discussions about great power ballads and emotionally driven 1970s music.

Related: 1981 Soft Rock Song, Used in ‘500 Days of Summer,’ Became an Iconic Hit

Though much has changed since Hallmark Channel officially launched 25 years ago, one thing that hasn’t changed is how loyal the cable channel has always been to its most beloved stars. That’s certainly true for Hollywood icon Jane Seymour, who was the very first actress to appear on the network and continues to appear there periodically in movies and shows.

On August 5, 2001, the Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman star “flicked the switch” as the fledgling Odyssey Network was rebranded as Hallmark Channel, according to a 2011 Ad Age overview of the network’s first decade.

Seymour appeared onscreen that night to usher in a new era, welcoming viewers to a new cable channel devoted to feel-good entertainment. The Ad Age piece said Hallmark execs chose Seymour to start things off because her work had always “embodied family-friendly, high-quality, trusted television.”

For the first several years of Hallmark Channel, reruns of Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman aired during its daily programming, and later appeared on Hallmark Family and the Hallmark+ streaming platform.

Over the years, Seymour has also returned to the network she helped to launch, starring in numerous original Hallmark Channel movies, including 2008’s Dear Prudence and 2014’s A Royal Christmas with Lacey Chabert. Most recently, Seymour appeared in Hallmark Channel’s 2025 six-episode holiday mini-series Twelve Dates ‘Til Christmas, co-starring Mae Whitman and Mary McDonnell.

Appearing on the Today show in December 2025, Seymour said she was drawn to her latest Hallmark project because she’s always looking to star in “something completely original, (where) I’ve never seen that show before. 12 Dates Til Christmas was very original.”

While promoting A Royal Christmas in 2014, Seymour told Parade, “I love working with Hallmark. I always get to have a lot of fun with great characters. And of course they were the host of Dr. Quinn for a very long time too. I think it’s fun to change it up you know. You can do a Wedding Crashers and then you can do a Hallmark.” 

Seymour currently stars in Acorn TV’s Harry Wild, and there’s no word yet on when her next Hallmark Channel project might be.

Some rock stars become legends by carefully building careers. Steve Jones pretty much crashed into his.

The legendary Sex Pistols guitarist turns 71 on Thursday, giving punk fans everywhere an excuse to celebrate one of rock and roll’s great originals.

Born Stephen Philip Jones in West London, in 1955, Jones never knew his father, but had a peaceful early childhood, which turned on a dime when his mother remarried and 10 year old Jones faced abuse at the hands of his stepfather. For years after, Jones escaped reality by surrounding himself with a self-proclaimed “Cloak of Invisibility” which helped him cope with the lingering trauma.

“I used to think I was invisible sometimes,” said Jones in a 2022 Louder interview. Even around people. It was the weirdest thing.”

In the years that followed, Jones lost interest in school and became a compulsive thief in a desperate attempt to regain a sense of control. By his teenage years, he had already had multiple criminal convictions and was ordered to spend a year in a remand center.

Luckily, Jones found salvation through music. Glam rock artists like David Bowie and Roxie Music hinted to young Jones that there might be a way out and eventually inspired him to form a band. This band would eventually become the Sex Pistols.

A self-proclaimed kleptomaniac, Jones continued on with his thieving to support and soothe himself, stealing everything from cars to the very instruments that would get his band up on the stage. This stealing spree included David Bowie’s microphone which he swiped after a Ziggy Stardust performance.

“My thing was if I liked a band I would steal their equipment,” he explained in his 2017 autobiography Lonely Boy: Tales from a Sex Pistol. “It still had his lipstick on it,” he said. “I’m not proud of it but that was my connection to rock and roll,” and at fifteen that’s all he wanted.

Years later, Jones would credit the Sex Pistols with saving him from a life of crime. All of it made for an unlikely beginning for a man who would help change the sound of rock music, but not necessarily for a punk icon.

Jones got his first guitar as a teenager. “I can’t remember where I got it, but it was the Les Paul,” said Jones in a 2022 interview with Louder, “and I gave it to Wally Nightingale who was wanting to put a band together. Me, Cookie and him would sit around his house, and we thought we were the Faces. He’d come up with riffs and I’d try and piddle along – I had no clue. “

But Jones taught himself to play with astonishing speed. By the time the Pistols recorded their landmark 1977 album, Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols, he had only been playing guitar for a relatively short time.

According to Jones, friend and mentor Malcolm McClaren later handed Jones another Les Paul Custom, formerly belonging to Sylvain Sylvain, and said “Here you are, that’s the guitar you’re gonna play,” Because Jones loved the Les Paul sound, especially when plugged through a Marshall amp, he felt lucky. This became the guitar he played throughout the legendary Sex Pistols era and that largely defined their sound.

And what a sound he made.

Jones’ roaring Gibson Les Paul, massive power chords and deceptively tight playing became fundamental to the sound of British punk. Beneath all the outrageous headlines surrounding the Sex Pistols was an extraordinarily powerful rock band, and Jones was a huge reason why. He was the main driving force behind The Sex Pistols. Rolling Stone has recognized him among the greatest guitarists of all time, describing his playing as a standard for generations of punk guitarists who followed. His influence can be heard in players ranging from Slash to Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong.

Jones threw himself into the Sex Pistols with all he had. He helped form the band, co-wrote much of its material and handled bass parts on two tracks from Never Mind the Bollocks. When the Pistols’ infamous 1976 television appearance with Bill Grundy erupted into profanity and national scandal, it was Jones who delivered some of the words that helped propel the band into British cultural history.

The Sex Pistols burned brightly and briefly, breaking up in 1978. But Jones kept going. It was, after all, only a small part of his story.

Jones and Cook soon after formed the Professionals, and Jones went on to work with a staggering collection of musicians including Johnny Thunders, Iggy Pop, Thin Lizzy, Joan Jett, Billy Idol, Bob Dylan and Andy Taylor. He released two solo albums, Mercy and Fire and Gasoline, and later formed Neurotic Outsiders with Guns N’ Roses members Duff McKagan and Matt Sorum and Duran Duran’s John Taylor. He also became a producer, session musician and occasional actor, appearing in everything from Roseanne and Portlandia to Californication.

Then came an unexpected second act.

After settling in Los Angeles, Jones launched Jonesy’s Jukebox on Indie 103.1 in 2004 and became something of a local institution. His loose, funny and gloriously unpolished approach to radio, playing whatever interested him and interviewing musicians and actors as fellow travelers rather than celebrities, won him an entirely new audience. The show caught fire. The Los Angeles Times called Jonesy’s Jukebox a staple of L.A. radio while LA Weekly referred to the show as “one of the oddest additions to the LA airwaves ever”,  praising Jones as an unexpectedly natural broadcaster.

Guests over the years have included an astonishing who’s who of music, among them Brian Wilson, Pete Townshend, Robert Plant, Eddie Vedder, Ozzy Osbourne, Brian May, Slash, Iggy Pop and Jones’ fellow Sex Pistols. His championing of new music also had real consequences: the Los Angeles Times reported that several emerging bands landed major-label deals after Jones played them on the air.

Perhaps that explains some of the enormous affection that surrounds Jones today.

For all his historical importance, there is remarkably little rock-star grandeur about him. Jones has been candid about his troubled childhood, addiction, recovery and the mistakes of his youth, recounting much of it with characteristic humor and unsparing honesty in his memoir. He got sober around 1990 and survived a heart attack in 2019.

More than five decades after he first started a band while skipping school with his mate Paul Cook, Steve Jones remains exactly what rock and roll looks like: funny, irreverent, authentic and utterly himself.

The kid from Shepherd’s Bush who once seemed headed nowhere helped create a sound that went everywhere.

Happy 71st birthday, Jonesy.

Related: 1977 Hit, Covered by Barry White, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Soft Rock Songs of All Time’

A 1981 soft rock classic by Daryl Hall & John Oates found a new generation of fans decades after its release, thanks in part to its memorable appearance in the 2009 romantic comedy-drama 500 Days of Summer.

“You Make My Dreams (Come True)” was released as a single in 1981 and became a major hit on the Billboard Hot 100. The song debuted on the chart on May 2, 1981, before reaching No. 5 on July 4, 1981. It remained on the chart for 21 weeks.

The song’s popularity later grew through movies, television and the streaming era. Its use in 500 Days of Summer, in particular, helped turn the upbeat track into one of Hall & Oates’ most recognizable songs.

Daryl Hall & John Oates live at Tokyo Dome, Tokyo, October 14, 1988.

Photo by Koh Hasebe/Shinko Music/Getty Images

Amazon Music has also ranked “You Make My Dreams (Come True)” at No. 4 on its list of the 100 Greatest Soft Rock Songs.

The song appears in one of the most remembered scenes from 500 Days of Summer, starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel.

In the film, Gordon-Levitt’s character, Tom Hansen, is filled with excitement after believing his romantic hopes are finally coming true. He walks through the city as an energetic dance sequence unfolds around him, with “You Make My Dreams” playing in the background.

The scene helped give the 1981 song a fresh identity for younger audiences. Rather than simply being remembered as an old pop hit, it became closely linked to the feeling of being happy and in love.

According to Paste Magazine, the movie was not the first production to use the song. “You Make My Dreams” has also appeared in The Wedding Singer, Step Brothers and The Office. It was also used by Saturday Night Live in a sketch during the 2008 election season.

Still, the 500 Days of Summer sequence became one of its most notable uses.

John Oates later said he believed 500 Days of Summer was when the song’s renewed popularity became clear to him, per BBC.

“I really believe it was 500 Days of Summer.”

Oates recalled watching the movie in a theater with his wife and son. When the dance scene began, a few teenage girls in the theater started clapping and cheering.

“It was a totally spontaneous, emotional response, and I thought: ‘Wow, this is unusual.’”

For Oates, that moment showed that the song was connecting with listeners who were much younger than the audience that first heard it in 1981.

“You Make My Dreams” was taken from Hall & Oates’ 1980 album Voices. The duo had already established themselves as major hitmakers, but this particular song developed a life of its own over time.

The track is known for its bright piano opening, energetic rhythm and catchy chorus. Daryl Hall explained that the distinctive opening sound came from a Yamaha CP-30, an unusual keyboard that was made for only a short period.

In an interview with BBC, marking the song’s 40th anniversary, Hall said:

“It’s a very unusual edition of a Yamaha called the Yamaha CP-30. There were very few of them made and it wasn’t out for very long.”

Hall also recalled that his original instrument was eventually destroyed. He later searched for another one because he could not fully recreate the sound without the actual instrument.

The song’s creation was also fairly simple. Hall said he began playing the piano riff and started writing the song. The first words that came out were “You make my dreams come true.”

Despite becoming one of the duo’s best-known songs, it was not a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. It peaked at No. 5 in 1981, while the song’s later success came from its continued use in popular culture.

The song has also found a place outside film and television. The Toronto Maple Leafs used it as their goal song from the 2018–19 season through the 2022–23 season, while the Milwaukee Brewers use it as a victory song after winning games.

Related: 1973 Rock Song, Written for James Bond Film, Became a Generational Hit

If there’s anyone who could do justice to Vince Gill‘s emotional ballad “Go Rest High on That Mountain,” it’s Carrie Underwood.

The “Before He Cheats” songstress once lent her powerhouse vocals to Gill’s melancholy track, which he wrote in the midst of dealing with profound loss and grief.

He first began writing the song back in 1989, following the death of his friend and fellow country singer Keith Whitley, but he ended up shelving it due to the heavy subject material. But in 1993, the death of Gill’s older half-brother Bob Coen inspired him to pick the song back up again — and this time he finished it.

What resulted was a deeply moving track about grief and saying goodbye, while Gill leaned on his Christian faith to give the song a comforting message about Heaven and eternal rest.

In 2022, Underwood performed her own rendition of “Go Rest High on That Mountain” as part of a CMT Giants television special celebrating Gill’s iconic country music premiere and his humanitarian legacy.

Gill could be seen watching from the audience with a tear in his eye, before giving Underwood a standing ovation by the time she was finished singing.

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Country music fans were overwhelmingly impressed by Underwood’s rendition of the song, with viewers on YouTube calling the performance “breathtaking” and “angelic.”

“Carrie really did this song justice, and honored Vince with this beautiful performance, in a way few others could. Bravo,” one commenter said, while another user in agreement wrote of Underwood, “She never disappoints, and honestly, next to Vince Gill this is the best vocal rendition of his song.”

“An absolute masterpiece, as always!” another user gushed in the comments. “Carrie and Vince are both an incredible gift to all of us.”

Related: 1949 Country Classic, Covered by Elvis Presley, Is Considered One of the ‘Saddest Songs of All Time’

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The best jewelry pieces are the ones that feel special enough to make a statement but also versatile enough to wear again and again. Macy’s exclusive Birthstone Gemstone & Diamond Accent Heart Pendant Necklace is a stunning piece that delivers just the right amount of subtle sparkle — and it’s on sale for 70% off for a limited time.

Right now, you can snag the elegant necklace for just $99 at Macy’s, down from its original $325 price tag. The heart-shaped pendant features a stunning birthstone gemstone as its centerpiece, finished with delicate diamond accents for an extra hint of shine.

Birthstone Gemstone & Diamond Accent Heart Pendant Necklace, $99 (was $325) at Macy’s 

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

The necklace is available in all 12 birthstone styles, making it a thoughtful gift option for a birthday, anniversary, holiday, or other meaningful occasion. Depending on the stone you choose, it comes in different metal finishes: The aquamarine, freshwater pearl, Swiss blue topaz, and lab-grown blue sapphire versions come in sterling silver, while the other gemstones are set in 14-karat gold-plated sterling silver.

The pendant features a 1-inch drop, while the necklace is approximately 18 inches long, making it just the right length to pair with nearly anything. It features a cable link chain with a spring clasp closure that helps keep it securely in place. 

Related: Macy’s ‘Lightweight’ Floral Comforter Sets Brighten Up Any Bedroom, Now Up to 65% Off

The heart-shaped design gives the necklace a romantic, feminine feel that elevates any outfit. Wear it with a simple sweater and jeans for an everyday look, or pair it with a dress for a special occasion. You can also layer it with other delicate chains when you want to add a little more sparkle to your look. 

Macy’s shoppers called the pendant “beautiful” and “great quality.” One reviewer praised its “feminine and dainty” design, while another said the “gorgeous” piece goes well with anything. A third buyer wrote, “This is the prettiest birthstone necklace I’ve ever seen.”

Shop More Deals

• Macy’s Ruby & Diamond Open Heart Necklace, $131 (was $325) at Macy’s
• Effy Diamond Pave Cluster Pendant Necklace, $175 (was $500) at Macy’s
• The Lovis Lapis Single Heart Necklace, $71 (was $102) at Macy’s

Now on sale for over $200 off, this heart pendant necklace is an incredible steal.  With its gemstone centerpiece, diamond accents, and a range of birthstone options to choose from, it’s an elegant and thoughtful piece, whether you’re buying for a friend or treating yourself. Pick one up while it’s still on sale for under $100 at Macy’s. 

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Ask 10 barbecue aficionados how to cook a perfect brisket, and you’ll probably get 10 different answers. Mention pellet grills, wrapping, or whether to sauce before or after, and there’s a good chance you’ll accidentally start a friendly argument before the coals are even hot.

That’s part of the barbecue charm. It’s rooted in tradition, shaped by geography and fueled by strong opinions. Every pitmaster has a favorite wood, a preferred rub or a technique they’ve spent years perfecting. Some wrap briskets in butcher paper; others swear by foil. Some spritz every hour; others won’t even crack open the smoker until it’s time to pull the meat.

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With the opportunity to speak with several of the country’s top pitmasters during the renowned Carolina BBQ Festival, we realized it was the perfect chance to ask one simple question: What’s the single most important grilling tip every backyard cook should know?

We expected six different answers. Instead, we got six versions of the same one.

You don’t need fancy equipment or expensive meat for better barbecue at home. It all comes down to your technique. Here, learn the most important grilling tip six top pitmasters all swear by, plus other tricks of the trade for the best barbecue you’ve ever eaten.

Our Panel of Experts

courtesy Sam Berger

We spoke with six accomplished barbecue professionals representing restaurants, competition teams and the beef industry. While each person brings a different perspective to the smoker, they all share decades of experience cooking, judging, competing and teaching the craft of barbecue.

• Lewis Donald is the owner of Sweet Lew’s BBQ in Charlotte, North Carolina. Donald is a featured pitmaster and co-founder of the Carolina BBQ Festival, and was recently recognized by Southern Living as one of barbecue’s “Next Legends.” He’s known for his Carolina-style barbecue and thoughtful, technique-first approach to live-fire cooking.
• Ken Hess is the owner of County Smoak in Lynchburg, Virginia. Hess is an award-winning pitmaster and prize winner at this year’s Carolina BBQ Festival. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Hess is known for combining chef-driven precision with old-school barbecue techniques at County Smoak, which is one of Virginia’s top barbecue destinations.
• Michael Letchworth is the co-owner of Sam Jones BBQ in Greenville and Raleigh, North Carolina, and the owner of Fox Hollow Outdoors. A returning pitmaster and award winner at this year’s Carolina BBQ Festival, Letchworth has spent years cooking professionally while sharing his passion for barbecue, hunting and the outdoors through Fox Hollow Outdoors. Letchworth is known for Carolina-style whole hog barbecue.
• Bryan Schaaf is the relationship manager at Certified Angus Beef. A self-described “hamburger historian, meat nerd and occasional cook,” Schaaf works with chefs and consumers across the country to educate them about beef quality, grading and preparation.
• Geoff Noth is pitmaster and “smoke whisperer” for the Big Bad Wolves BBQ team in Chicago. Noth is an award-winning pitmaster who’s earned accolades on the competitive barbecue circuit and believes mastering internal meat temperature is one of the keys to consistently great barbecue.
• Dave Farrell is the captain of the award-winning Big Bad Wolves BBQ team. A longtime barbecue competitor, Farrell is known for his technical approach to smoking meat, emphasizing temperature management, proper resting and consistency. Farrell is an advocate of injecting meat with melted butter or marinade prior to smoking.

The Most Important Grilling Tip, According to Pitmasters

Courtesy Rich Tennent

Not one pitmaster started by talking about a secret rub. Nobody insisted we needed a more expensive smoker. Surprisingly, nobody’s first answer involved premium Wagyu brisket, a particular type of wood or some closely guarded family recipe.

They all came back to one simple piece of advice: Let your meat rest.

What surprised us wasn’t that resting matters. Any experienced pitmaster or barbecue enthusiast knows that. Rather, it was how quickly every conversation circled back to it. Whether we were talking with an award-winning restaurant owner, a championship competition cook or a Certified Angus Beef representative, each treated the rest period after the cook as one of the most important steps in the entire barbecue process.

“It’s the most important disciplined step” of the entire cook, claims Lewis Donald, the owner of Sweet Lew’s BBQ in Charlotte. “If you don’t rest your meats properly and cut into them early, than you lose all your hard work—the juices run [out] and it’s dry.”

Dave Farrell, award-winning pitmaster and captain of the Big Bad Wolves BBQ Team, explains it in practical terms. During the rest, “the meat’s muscle fibers loosen while resting, and the juices redistribute more evenly throughout the meat,” producing a bite that is noticeably juicier and more flavorful.

Exactly how long that rest should last depends on what’s coming off the smoker.

Chicken may only need 10 to 20 minutes to rest. Ribs often benefit from about half an hour. Pork shoulder can happily rest for a couple hours, while brisket is in a league of its own, with many pitmasters letting it rest for several hours to overnight before slicing into it.

We get that it’s hard to wait. After all, you may spend hours waiting for your barbecue to finish, and once it’s finally done, the temptation to dive in is almost irresistible.

Michael Letchworth has watched that mistake play out more times than he can count. According to Letchworth, the owner of Sam Jones BBQ and founder of Fox Hollow Outdoors, the biggest problem isn’t that people don’t know about the rest—it’s that they don’t allow enough time for it.

You may plan dinner for 6 p.m., work backward from there and assume the brisket will cooperate. Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case. Cooks stall. Fires fluctuate. Weather changes. Suddenly, dinner is 45 minutes away, the meat isn’t quite ready and panic starts setting in.

That’s when people crank up the heat, pull the meat too early or skip the resting period entirely. Letchworth’s solution is refreshingly simple: Finish early. “Give yourself plenty of time, and don’t be afraid to get done way ahead of time, and then hold and rest that product until you’re actually ready to serve it.”

Barbecue holds remarkably well when wrapped properly and kept warm. In fact, many pitmasters believe a long, controlled rest actually improves the finished product. “A [barbecue] restaurant isn’t cooking food that comes off the smoker and goes straight to the plate,” Letchworth says. “Our meats at the restaurant get a long rest as part of the process, but cooking at your home is different. You need to intentionally plan for a rest period.”

Ken Hess, owner of County Smoak and another standout at this year’s Carolina BBQ Festival, sees it exactly the same way. When home cooks ask for advice, he encourages them to build the resting period into their timeline instead of treating it as optional. Plan backward from serving time. Expect the unexpected. Give yourself a cushion.

“It’s always better to be waiting on your guests than watching your meat,” Hess says. “We’ll wrap and rest pork butts and brisket for probably 12 hours overnight before we start chopping the next day, and that’s just going to help all that bark soften up and all of the juices redistribute throughout the meat.”

Every pitmaster we spoke with essentially said the same thing: Resting isn’t something you do after the cook. It’s part of the cook.

Related: The Brazilian Way To Make Steak 10x Better

More Grilling Tips for the Best Barbecue

courtesy Rich Tennent and Let's Meet CLT

While resting meat was the clear consensus, unsurprisingly every pitmaster had more tricks up their sleeve. Each shared techniques, habits and lessons earned over years behind the smoker. Some reinforced practical ideas, while others were totally surprising.

1. Trust your thermometer—not your clock.

courtesy Rich Tennent and Let's Meet CLT

If resting meat was the biggest consensus, internal temperature wasn’t far behind.

Geoff Noth doesn’t mince words on the subject. The award-winning smoke master with team Big Bad Wolves BBQ believes internal meat temperature is every bit as important as the rest itself. After all, if the meat isn’t cooked properly in the first place, no amount of resting is going to save it. Not going by the thermometer “was probably my biggest mistake in my younger days,” he says.

Each pitmaster echoed the same advice: stop cooking by the clock. Every brisket is different. Every pork shoulder has its own timetable. Weather changes. Smokers fluctuate. That’s why the number that matters most isn’t the one on your watch—it’s the one on your thermometer.

Hess even recommends skipping expensive gadgets in favor of a dependable instant-read thermometer. In his experience, a reasonably priced model in the hands of someone who knows how to use it is far more valuable than a drawer full of fancy gear.

2. Master the cook before buying better meat.

One of the few topics that produced slightly different answers was the age-old question of whether better barbecue starts with better meat.

Bryan Schaaf, relationship manager at Certified Angus Beef, which was one of the sponsors at this year’s Carolina BBQ Festival, believes quality ingredients give every pitmaster a head start. According to Schaaf, “start with a higher marbled raw product for the best results.”

While Schaaf isn’t wrong, Michael Letchworth offers an important reality check for backyard cooks. Before dropping serious money on Prime or Wagyu brisket, he recommends mastering the fundamentals. Learn how your smoker behaves. Understand how long different cuts actually take. Invest in a quality instant-read thermometer. Once you can consistently turn out a great product, then reward yourself with premium beef.

In other words, don’t use a $200 brisket as your practice run.

Lewis Donald agrees. People buy an expensive cut for a birthday party or family gathering, then attempt their first overnight brisket cook with a backyard full of hungry guests waiting. His advice? Practice first. A few inexpensive cooks spent getting to know your equipment and “learning fire management; learning personal threshold…will be better money spent,” he says.

3. Borrow a trick from Texas.

Trevor Srednick / Getty Images

Ken Hess shared a tip he learned from Texas’s legendary pitmaster, Wayne Mueller of James Beard-recognized Louis Mueller Barbecue, that he still uses today, and it involves cardboard.

Before placing meat on the smoker, especially brisket, Mueller sets it on a piece of clean, unprinted cardboard.

While this may sound ridiculous, the science makes perfect sense. The cardboard acts as a temporary heat shield beneath, particularly under the thinner flat portion of the brisket, helping to prevent it from cooking faster than the thicker point. As the brisket slowly shrinks during the cook, air begins circulating around the meat, allowing smoke to reach every surface while still reducing direct heat from below.

Hess says it’s one of those old-school tricks that’s easy to dismiss—right up until you see it work.

One important caveat: this technique should only be done with clean, unprinted, unwaxed cardboard that’s safe for food contact.

4. Skip the overnight rib seasoning.

Philippe Gerber / Getty Images

Another unexpected tip was to avoid applying your rub the night before the cook—particularly with ribs. While this advice is at odds with a lot of advice you’ll find on social media, Hess says ribs are the exception to the dry brine process.

According to Hess, leaving a salty, sugary seasoning on ribs overnight, especially the amounts contained in many commercial rubs, can begin curing the meat rather than simply seasoning it. “Because [of] the thinness of ribs, the sugar and salt left on overnight will penetrate that inch, inch and a half of meat,” he says. The result is a change in both texture and the finished flavor. “You [may] end up having a rib that tastes more like a cured piece of ham,” Hess jokes.

Instead, he recommends applying the rub no more than a couple of hours before the ribs go on the smoker, allowing the seasoning to do its job without giving it the time to cure. It’s a small adjustment, but exactly the kind of insider advice you only pick up after years of experimentation.

The Final Takeaway for Making Better Barbecue at Home

courtesy Sam Berger and Let's Meet CLT

Great barbecue rewards patience. Many backyard cooks get into trouble when they try to make barbecue fit their schedule instead of letting the barbecue dictate its own.

Maybe that’s what separates good barbecue from great barbecue. Not a secret rub. Not a six-figure smoker. Not even a championship recipe.

Have the patience to trust the process. Because when it comes to barbecue, you can always wait a little longer to eat, but you can’t uncut a brisket.

Related: We Asked 5 Chefs Their Favorite One-Pan Meals—and They’re Anything but Basic

There are signs and artwork you can order online that read, “I love you more than bacon.”

Some of the top-selling menu options at U.S. restaurants featured the fan-favorite pork product. And now, Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers has launched four new bacon-forward items:

• Smoky Bacon Cheddar Stack
• Smoky Bacon Steakburger Taco
• Bacon Loaded Tots
• Maple Pecan Concrete

The popular fast-casual chain took to social media on Wednesday, September 2 to promote its new bacon-tastic lineup of items. The reel features a fictional “band” manager plugging his group of bacon items reuniting for a so-called Bacon Fest.

“‘Our biggest tour yet.’ — Barry ‘The Baconator’ Stackhouse, manager of Bacon & The Hits,” reads the playful caption of Freddy’s recent Instagram post. “After years of anticipation, Bacon Fest is officially on. Get the full lineup for a limited time at Freddy’s.”

See the festive reel below.

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Fans have since commented on the post to show their support for the chain and its new offerings. “Baconcè the queen,” one Instagram user clever commented, while another person wrote, “I love you sm Freddy’s.”

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers was co-founded in 2002 by brothers Bill Simon and Randy Simon with their friend and business partner, Scott Redler, according to the company website. It was named in honor of Bill and Randy’s father. In the years since, it’s grown from a single restaurant in Wichita, Kansas and now has more than 500 locations.

Another Fast-Casual Chain Debuts New Flavor

Meanwhile, the similarly fast-casual chain known as Culver’s also just unveiled its own unique offering: the Oreo Reese’s Cheesecake Concrete Mixer, which blends the beloved sandwich cookies and peanut butter cups into its frozen custard base as part of a broader fall dessert rollout.

The restaurant also took to Instagram to unveil its new desset, and fans have since commented on the reel to voice their excitement for the new release. “You’re the best to ever do it Culver’s,” wrote one Instagram user, while another person commented, “The big C always delivers.” Find out more here.

There’s nothing like a little greenery to breathe fresh life into your space. But when your household includes a cat who thinks every dangling leaf is a toy or a dog who’s willing to taste-test just about anything, finding a pet safe plant is essential.

That’s because plenty of popular houseplants contain naturally occurring compounds that can make pets sick if they’re ingested, explains horticulturalist Justin Hancock of Costa Farms and author of The New Complete Guide to Houseplants: Expert Houseplant Growing Advice. According to Hancock, plants developed these compounds as natural defenses to discourage animals from eating them in the wild—and some found in their leaves, stems or roots can be harmful when consumed.

Of course, even pet safe plants aren’t guaranteed to be harmless—since individual animals can have sensitivities, and fertilizers, pesticides or other products used on a plant can present additional concerns. If your pet eats a plant or starts showing unusual symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Ready to grow your indoor jungle? These 20 pet safe plants are a good place to start. 

20 Pet Safe Plants for Dogs & Cats 1. Peperomia Peperomia

Juan Camilo Trujillo Botero

New to the houseplant world? Start here. According to Hancock, Peperomia is particularly beginner-friendly because many commonly available varieties can handle lower-light conditions and won’t necessarily throw a fit if you occasionally forget to water them.

2. African Violet African Violets

Anna Bondarenko

If you’re looking for pet safe plants that actually flower, African violets are an adorable option. Their fuzzy green leaves are topped with clusters of colorful blooms, giving you plenty to look at even though the plants themselves remain relatively petite.

3. Majesty Palm Majesty Palm

Sigrid Abalos

Have an empty corner that’s begging for something big and green? A majesty palm brings instant tropical vibes thanks to its long, feathery fronds. Unlike many of the petite options on this list, this is a plant that can command some serious visual real estate. Place it in a pretty floor planter and let it become part of the room’s decor.

4. Spider Plant Spider Plant

Mathias Reding

Spider plants have been popular pet safe plants for generations, and it’s easy to see why. Their long, striped leaves spill beautifully over the sides of a pot, while mature plants can produce little plantlets that dangle from long stems.

5. Money Tree Money Tree

Daan Rink

A money tree gives you good looks, an interesting braided trunk and, according to tradition, perhaps a little good fortune, too. Hancock notes that money trees don’t contain the naturally occurring compounds that make some other houseplants problematic for pets and that a well-cared-for money tree can eventually grow taller than 6 feet indoors—although getting there can take years.

6. Boston Fern Boston Fern

Joshua Mcknight

For a big dose of lush greenery, it’s hard to beat a Boston fern. Its masses of arching fronds look especially gorgeous spilling out of a hanging basket or elevated planter. Keeping its environment sufficiently humid can help those pretty fronds continue looking their best.

7. Prayer Plant Prayer Plant

Jardín De Neko

Prayer plants are proof that a pet safe plant doesn’t need flowers to put on a show. Depending on the variety, their leaves can feature eye-catching patterns and combinations of green, red and cream. Their coolest trick happens after the sun goes down: The leaves move in response to the daily light cycle and often lift upward at night, creating the praying-hands effect that inspired the plant’s name.

8. Areca Palm Areca Palm

Furknsaglam

Areca palms have an especially light and airy look, thanks to their multiple slender stems topped with feathery, arching fronds. As the plant fills out, all that wispy foliage can create an almost living-screen effect, making it a pretty way to soften a room or add a little privacy.

9. Christmas Cactus Christmas Cactus

Muecke

A Christmas cactus earns its spot on the list thanks to the colorful flowers it can produce during the cooler months. Depending on the type, yours may bloom around Thanksgiving or Christmas, giving you a living decoration just when outdoor gardens are looking decidedly less colorful.

10. Friendship Plant

With its deeply textured leaves, a friendship plant packs a surprising amount of personality into a small package. Its compact size makes it an easy pick for shelves and tabletops where a floor-sized plant simply wouldn’t work. And, as its sweet common name suggests, it’s the kind of plant that looks pretty enough to propagate and pass along to a friend.

11. Ponytail Palm Ponytail Palm

Hanna Pad

Forget to water? The ponytail palm doesn’t mind. This pet safe plant is built to withstand some neglect thanks to the thickened base of its trunk, which stores water. Hancock considers it an especially drought-tolerant houseplant and notes that its extremely slow growth means you shouldn’t have to constantly repot or prune it.

12. Cast Iron Plant

Cast iron plants have a reputation for being tough and resilient—making them a great candidate if you want plenty of glossy green foliage without choosing an especially fussy houseplant. Their broad, upright leaves have a simple, classic look that works particularly well with most decorating styles.

13. Moth Orchid Moth Orchid

Amelia Cui

Turns out, those gorgeous grocery-store orchids are pet-friendly, too. Moth orchids come in a variety of shades ranging from crisp white to pink, purple and yellow. Their long-lasting blooms also make them an easy way to add a splash of color to your space without constantly replacing fresh flowers.

14. Parlor Palm

If you love palms but don’t necessarily have room for a giant one, consider the parlor palm. Its delicate green fronds deliver the tropical look in a more manageable package. It’s also a slow grower, so you don’t have to worry about bringing home a cute little plant only to have it suddenly overwhelm your space in a few months.

15. Calathea Calathea

Jardín De Neko

Calatheas might be some of the prettiest pet safe plants you can buy. Their foliage comes in an impressive assortment of patterns, with leaves featuring stripes, brushstroke-like markings and contrasting shades of green, cream, pink and purple.

16. Polka Dot Plant Polka Dot Plant

Tara Winstead

The polka dot plant’s foliage looks like someone took a paintbrush and splattered it with color, with varieties commonly featuring pink, red or white against green. Its relatively small size also makes it an easy way to add a pop of color to a desk, shelf or collection of other houseplants.

17. Birds’ Nest Fern Bird’s Nest Fern

terimakasih0

Not all ferns have delicate, feathery foliage. The bird’s nest fern produces long, broad fronds that emerge from the center of the plant and often develop gorgeous wavy edges. The result is lush and almost sculptural, making it a particularly good option if you like the look of ferns but want something a little different from the traditional Boston variety.

18. Blue Echeveria Blue Echeveria Succulent

Maureen Bekker

Prefer succulents? Blue echeveria grows in compact rosettes of fleshy leaves, so it’s an easy way to add a completely different shape and texture to your collection.

19. Pilea Pilea

Kulbir

Pilea includes a variety of houseplants, but one of the best-known is the Chinese money plant, with its unmistakable round leaves. It’s a great pet safe plant option if you want something compact and eye-catching that won’t take up a ton of space.

20. Burro’s Tail Burro’s Tail

Orhan Akbaba

Burro’s tail is a succulent with long stems densely covered in plump leaves, creating a cascading effect that’s especially pretty in a hanging planter. Just be gentle when handling it: Those fleshy little leaves can detach fairly easily.

Massachusetts mom Lindsay Clancy could face another murder trial if the jury weighing her fate remains deadlocked. But after weeks of testimony and days of deliberations, another possibility is emerging: could the case end with a plea deal instead?

Lindsay Clancy, 36, is charged with killing her three children, Cora, 5, Dawson, 3, and Callan, 8 months, inside the family’s Duxbury, Massachusetts, home in January 2023. She has pleaded not guilty by reason of lack of criminal responsibility. 

Her defense says postpartum psychosis drove her actions, while prosecutors argue she knew what she was doing. Jurors began a sixth day of deliberations Thursday, September 3, after twice telling Judge William Sullivan they could not reach a unanimous verdict.

Could Lindsay Clancy Be Offered a Plea Deal? Plymouth, MA – August 18: Lindsay Clancy and defense attorney Kevin Reddington listen to testimony at Plymouth Superior Court on August 18, 2026. (Photo by Jonathan Wiggs/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

(Photo by Jonathan Wiggs/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

If Sullivan declares a mistrial, prosecutors could retry Clancy, drop the charges or seek a plea deal, according to the Associated Press. 

Trial attorney, victims’ rights advocate, and legal analyst Shari Karney spoke to Parade and shared that a negotiated resolution should be seriously considered if the case ends with a hung jury. “A negotiated settlement deserves serious consideration,” Karney says.

She added, “This is the best outcome and solution. That the Commonwealth and the Defense reach a settlement that neither side is happy with but gives both some of what they hoped to establish with this trial.”

Would a Mistrial Mean Lindsay Clancy Is Cleared? A makeshift memorial continues to grow on January 31, 2023 in Duxbury, Massachusetts in front of the home of Lindsay Clancy who strangled her three children last week and then tried to take her own life.

Matt Stone/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald via Getty Images

Karney stresses that a mistrial would not amount to an acquittal or a finding of innocence. “If this jury remains hopelessly deadlocked, the judge can declare a mistrial,” she says. “But a mistrial caused by a hung jury is not an acquittal.”

Clancy would remain under the court’s authority while prosecutors decide what comes next. A hung jury generally would not prevent the Commonwealth from prosecuting Clancy again. But Karney says another trial should not be automatic. “That’s why I don’t think the Commonwealth should automatically retry this case simply because it legally can,” she says.

Is Lindsay Clancy Competent to Stand Trial Again?

Karney also raises a question she believes has received too little attention: whether Clancy would be mentally competent to endure another trial.

Clancy jumped from a second-story window after the killings and has remained paralyzed from the waist down ever since. Her mental health has become central to the case, with her defense arguing postpartum psychosis drove her actions. Karney believes Clancy’s condition should be viewed in the context of what she describes as a severe postpartum psychiatric crisis.

“Instead, Lindsay was experiencing what I would describe as a mental-health stroke—severe depression, anxiety, suicidal thinking, devastating sleep deprivation and, ultimately, postpartum psychosis,” Karney says.

She also points to Clancy’s extensive psychiatric treatment before the killings, including reports that she had been prescribed 13 psychotropic medications.

“That should make every one of us stop and ask: Who was connecting the dots? Who was looking at the whole patient?” Karney adds.

For Karney, the case also raises a broader concern about how seriously postpartum and women’s mental-health emergencies are treated. “Women’s mental health has historically been treated as the stepchild of health care,” she says.

Those questions could take on new significance if prosecutors seek another trial following a mistrial. “A second trial would not be emotionally or psychologically cost-free,” Karney says.

If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or a suicidal crisis, you can reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. You can also chat with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline here.

According to expert astrologers, Virgos born in September share distinct personality traits that set them apart.

People born under Virgo, the mutable earth sign symbolized by the Maiden, have a reputation for being the perfectionists and neat freaks of the zodiac. Those who don’t understand the messenger Mercury-ruled sign fully might describe Virgos as fastidious, worrisome, and critical.

The truth is that the sixth sign of the zodiac is deeply intuitive, service-oriented, pragmatic, and a supremely talented communicator. Their attention to detail and work ethic is potentially unparalleled, which means whether they’re showing up at work or in an intimate bond, Virgos are paying attention and putting their nose to the grindstone to ensure a winning result.

But what sets Virgos born in September apart from Virgos born in August? Read on for the defining traits of September Virgos.

What Makes September Virgos Unique

If you’ve ever felt like August Virgos are a whole different kind of Virgo than September Virgos, that’s likely because Virgo’s decans are coming into play. Decans break sun sign seasons into three unique time periods. Each of these timeframes has its own luminary or planetary ruler. For example, Virgos born in August and up until the first day or two of September might feel like they’re especially in sync with the analytical, mindful, cerebral—yes, stereotypical—archetype of Virgo, because Mercury rules sign as well as their decan. 

But Virgos born from approximately September 2 and on look to Saturn and Venus as their decan rulers, making them more industrious, ambitious, beauty-loving, social, and balance-seeking than their August counterparts.

5 Traits of a September Virgo

Whether you yourself are a Virgo born in September, or someone you love was born under the earth sign during the ninth month of the year, here’s what you need to know about their can’t-miss characteristics.

They’re Especially Industrious

While August Virgos might be more prone to second-guessing their loftiest goals, given the mercurial nature of their rulership, September Virgos are more comfortable with setting bold intentions and then putting in the work to achieve them. If they were born between the 2nd and 11th, they might go about this in a slow, steady, deliberate, and unrelentingly committed Saturnian way. And if they were born between September 12 and 21, they’ll do it by leaning on their social circle and networking their way to success.

They’re Financially Savvy

With either taskmaster Saturn or values-oriented Venus at the helm as a subruler, these Virgos are money-wise, capable of pinpointing interesting and rewarding strategies to save, invest, and earn. They might also be particularly adept at bringing their communication skills, desire to be of service, and high mental energy to the table for a well-deserved pay day.

They Have a Distinct Sense of Humor 

September Virgos aren’t just gifted communicators. They’re also pros at getting people to laugh until their sides hurt. That’s because they either have a dry sense of humor, if they answer to Saturn as their subruler, or are especially charming, witty, and alluring when entertaining others, if they were born with a Venus influence. 

They Are Driven to Broaden Their Horizons

With Mercury as their ruler, all Virgos find travel and learning to be fulfilling and a fast track to personal growth. But September Virgos are particularly drawn to pushing past their comfort zones for the sake of experience and ultimately wisdom. Saturn encourages Virgos born between the 2nd and 11th to put themselves out there and take on new responsibilities that might be initially challenging but ultimately enriching. And the latest-born Virgos, subruled by Venus, adore exploration alongside loved ones, friends, or their significant other.

They’re Dedicated to Showing Up for Their Nearest and Dearest 

All Virgos want to help their circle by gathering the most useful information or paying close attention to details that will save the day, but September Virgos are especially eager to help the ones they love in practical ways. Whether they’re researching the best airfares for an upcoming romantic getaway or prepping healthy meals for their family, these Virgos are dutiful and emotionally invested in their bonds.  

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It’s rare for a mug to be considered iconic, but the thousands of people who collect Anthropologie’s Icon glassware know it’s not just hype. These eye-catching pieces stand out with their subtle motifs, adding a little touch of whimsy and seasonal charm to the kitchen. The Icon Glass Mug is a beautiful example of the collection’s appeal — and right now it’s also marked down from its usual $16 to just $9 in your choice of colors.

Both the cherry and lemon versions on sale are absolutely vibrant, adding an immediate pop of visual interest to the glass. You can also find heart and bow variations for the original price. Each one exemplifies what makes the Icon range so popular. The subtle glass beads are meticulously hand-pressed to the glass, lending the mugs a playful quality.

Icon Glass Mug, from $9 (was $16) at Anthropologie

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Shop at Anthropologie

And that’s only part of the reason they’ve become such social media favorites. The viral mugs are everywhere, adding a little dose of color and character to ordinary everyday moments. Morning coffees feel a lot more interesting when the mug is as sweet as this, and they add a fun pop to afternoon tea breaks, too. The aesthetic value is undeniable, whether you’re a collector or just discovering the line for the first time.

Because many are limited-edition, there’s an added incentive to pick them up. Some people even prefer to put them on display instead of using them as drinking vessels — and that’s understandable, since the eye-catching icons lend them such a joyful vibe. Seasonal varieties can make a cute addition to a tablescape, for example, and they can even be used as little candy dishes on a desktop or side table.

While they are indeed cute, the Icon mugs are also designed to stand the test of time. The borosilicate glass is hand blown, so no two are alike, and they boast an artisanal feel that sets them apart from ordinary drinkware. They stand 4.5 inches tall and have a 14.2-ounce capacity, so they’re large enough to accommodate your favorite frothy coffee or rich, marshmallow-topped hot cocoa.

They’re also double-walled, yet despite their structural integrity they’re lightweight enough to feel comfortable nestled in your hand. A shopper described the look as “adorable,” adding that their drinks stay hotter for longer periods thanks to the thick construction. Another reviewer agreed that they’re “super cute and delicate.” 

Because they’re so exquisite and carefully designed, proper care will ensure they continue to look as good as new for a lifetime. Although it isn’t safe to put in the dishwasher or microwave, simple hand-washing will preserve the integrity of the glass and beads. 

Shop More Deals

• Das Rotes Rabbit Italian Earthenware Pasta Bowl, $15 (was $20) at Anthropologie
• Icon Juice Glass, $13 (was $16) at Anthropologie
• Confetti Icon Juice Glass Tumbler With Lid, $19 (was $24) at Anthropologie

Related: Anthropologie’s ‘Adorable’ $48 Ghost Cheese Board Makes Halloween Hosting Frightfully Cute

If you’re looking for something new to brighten up your day, a little treasure like this can have such a big impact. Don’t miss the Anthropologie Icon Glass Mug with your preferred motif while it’s on sale for a limited time.

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.

In 1960, Rosie Hamlin was a 15-year-old high school student when she and her teenage bandmates headed to a small California town to record a song she had written herself.

The makeshift session produced “Angel Baby,” the tender ballad that transformed Rosie and the Originals into an almost overnight success. Recorded in San Marcos, California, the song climbed into the Top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and gave Hamlin a remarkable breakthrough while she was still a teenager.

Hamlin had written “Angel Baby” even earlier.

“When I was around 13, my mother bought me an old, used piano and I started trying to copy by ear, the sounds I was hearing,” Hamlin told Classic Bands. “I had an old record player and a few 45s and I listened to that four chord progression. Then, when I was 14, I wrote ‘Angel Baby’ as a poem. Then I set it to that four chord progression that I’d learned.”

By the following year, she was singing with a group of young musicians who would become known as Rosie and the Originals.

They didn’t have access to a major recording studio.

Instead, the group recorded “Angel Baby” at a small studio in San Marcos located inside an old airplane hangar. The primitive setup contributed to the record’s raw sound, with Hamlin’s delicate vocal floating above the simple instrumental backing.

Getting the finished recording released presented another challenge.

After taking the song to a local department store and convincing a manager to play it in a listening booth, the group attracted enough attention to get “Angel Baby” onto a small label. Highland Records subsequently picked it up for wider distribution, and the song began spreading far beyond Southern California.

By early 1961, “Angel Baby” had climbed to No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Its success made Hamlin a teenage star, but it also created complications. The original record label initially credited another member of the group as the songwriter, and Hamlin later fought to establish her authorship of the song she had written as a young teenager.

“My music has been a labor of love,” Hamlin wrote on her website. “When I first started recording, it was another way of expressing myself. I was infatuated with art but when I started singing and recording, music became my favorite expression.”

“Angel Baby” ultimately outlasted the group’s brief run of chart success. Among its most famous admirers was John Lennon, who called it one of his favorite songs and recorded his own version during the 1970s.

His cover, which begins with him saying, “This is one of my all-time favorite songs. My love to Rosie wherever she may be,” was eventually released after his death.

More than six decades after that modest San Marcos recording session, “Angel Baby” remains a beloved piece of early-60s pop. Its homemade quality is part of its charm, and the voice at its center still captures the extraordinary moment when a song written by a teenager turned 15-year-old Rosie Hamlin into a major star.

Related: 1969 Folk Rock Song, Recorded in a New York City Chapel, Is Still a Powerful Hit 57 Years Later