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Spider-Man has been a beloved Marvel character since he first appeared in the 1960s, and on July 31, the fan-favorite web-slinger will be swinging back into theaters once again for the fourth installment in Tom Holland's MCU Spider-Man movies, Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Ahead of that thrilling new release, prebiotic soda brand Poppi has launched a collaboration that Marvel fans aren't going to want to miss.

In celebration of the upcoming superhero flick, Poppi has partnered with Sony Pictures' Spider-Man: Brand New Day to create limited-edition soda packs featuring unique webbed designs. The collectible 4-packs include the flavors Cherry Limeade and Wild Berry, as well as Poppi's new flavor, Lemonade.

In addition to the mix of flavors and the Spider-Man-themed design, this collaboration between Poppi and Spider-Man: Brand New Day comes with a perk for fans who want to catch the movie in theaters. Specifically, with the purchase of four participating 4-packs of Poppi in one transaction, guests will be eligible for a $15 Fandango movie ticket reward.

These limited-edition 4-packs are available at Walmart, Target, Kroger and elsewhere.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day is an especially exciting addition to the MCU's Spider-Man story, as this narrative will pick up right where the most recent Spider-Man movie, Spider-Man: No Way Home, left off—with Peter Parker on his own, having been forgotten by the entire world. That includes his girlfriend, MJ (Zendaya), and best friend, Ned (Jacob Batalon).

However, this sad situation might not stick around for long, as Brand New Day trailers have already revealed that Peter Parker has become the literal "friendly neighbor" to MJ and Ned, having moved into their apartment complex and, seemingly, taken steps towards reconnecting with them.

Also exciting is the addition of Sadie Sink to the cast, in a role that remains mysterious for now (although many fans suspect that Sink may be playing the iconic X-Men hero Jean Grey).

For a sci-fi show, there wasn't a whole lot of high tech in The X-Files. But one of the tech trends that did make it's way into the show was cell phones. When Mulder and Scully starting using them, it let the characters connect across autopsy bays, motel rooms and weird crime scenes. At FAN EXPO Denver, David Duchovny let fans in on a secret about his end of those calls. He used them to remember his lines.

The fun confession came during the reunion panel at the Colorado Convention Center, where Duchovny and Gillian Andersonappeared together for the first time in almost a decade, with the click making the rounds on TikTok. They were joined by Mitch Pileggi, Robert Patrick, Annabeth Gish, Nicholas Lea and William B. Davis in what organizers billed as the biggest X-Files cast gathering ever, a centerpiece of the four-day convention that ran May 28 to 31.

"Thank God for cell phones," Duchovny said during the panel, recalling that the technology arrived around the show's third season and finally let the two leads film separate scenes. Then he turned to Anderson. "Did I ever tell you my cell phone trick? It's what the kids call a hack." On a normal phone scene, the script supervisor would read the absent actor's lines off camera. Duchovny asked for the opposite. "I would say, just do my lines, and then I would just repeat," he explained. Anderson, who spent nine seasons on the receiving end of those calls, seemed genuinely delighted. "It's pretty brilliant," she said. "I can't believe I've never thought about that before. That's such a good idea."

@fanexpohq

And the Emmy goes to.... the script supervisor #TheXFiles #acting #bts #lifehack #thetruthisoutthere

♬ original sound - FAN EXPO - FAN EXPO

The reunion arrived at a busy moment for the franchise. Hulu has greenlit a pilot for a new X-Files series written and directed by Sinners filmmaker Ryan Coogler, with Danielle Deadwyler and Himesh Patel starring as two new FBI agents and creator Chris Carter serving as executive producer. The pilot shot in Vancouver, the same city that housed the original show's first five seasons, and Patel has confirmed that filming is complete while Hulu weighs a full series order. Anderson has already praised the script, and Coogler has spoken with her about a possible return.

Related: X-Files Fans Have Spoken on the Best Episodes — and Two Are Tied at the Top

Whatever the revival becomes, the Denver panel showed why the original endures. Thirty-three years after the premiere, a story about getting lines fed to you via a fake phone call still creates smiles between costars and fans alike.

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A perfect Rotten Tomatoes score wasn't enough to save Scott Foley's latest series—and fans are just as baffled as he is.

After Prime Video canceled It's Not Like That following just one season, Foley thanked viewers in a heartfelt Instagram video and admitted he was "disappointed" to see the well-reviewed drama come to an end. His comments quickly filled with fans calling the decision "heartbreaking," asking, "What else do they want?" and pleading with Netflix, Hulu, and other streamers to give the show a second chance.

“After six or so weeks in Prime Video’s Top 10, I think getting as high as like three or four, really great reviews — I think we have like 100 percent on Rotten Tomatoes — our little show called It’s Not Like That has been canceled at Amazon Prime,” Foley shared in a video on Instagram.

He continued by adding, “I think I’m just ... I’m disappointed, obviously, but I’m so grateful for the chance. I get to make — I got to make a show I’m so proud of with people I grew to like a lot, and now we don’t get to make it anymore, and you don’t get to watch it.”

View this post on Instagram

Foley thanked those who watched the series, too. “If you watched it, thank you. I appreciate it. If you didn’t, it’s still on Amazon Prime. It’s not going to change the cancellation, but I wanted to thank everybody who took the time to check it out. Whether it was you found it on your own, whether it was a recommendation you saw on social media, it’s appreciated. So thank you.”

Fans wasted no time flooding the comments with messages of confusion and frustration. Many also noted the unfortunate timing, coming just two months after Foley spoke out about his Will Trentcharacter's heartbreaking death in the season 4 finale.

"Why does this always happening to you?! What a bummer, it was such a cute show, I really enjoyed it," one person pointed out with another expressing frustration with streaming services. "The economics of streaming video can be a bit baffling. You had viewers, what else do they want?" they wrote.

Many others just expressed sadness and disappointment, also hoping the series could find a home on a new streaming service. "Legit do not know what they want?!? This show is not only so good you could actually watch with YOUR FAMILY… Love to all the cast and crew - You made something Beautiful and Entertaining too bad this industry is," one person shared.

Cody Johnson is one of the most successful singers in modern country music, but the Texas native paved his way to success as a professional bull rider and later as a prison supervisor. Unlike many modern country stars, Johnson became the ultimate word-of-mouth sensation, using very little social media to promote himself. Instead, he became one of country music’s most important stars by self-releasing albums and relentlessly touring before signing a major-label record deal. A new ranking naming the most important modern country artists puts Cody Johnson at the top of the list, an accolade that comes as no surprise to his fans.

In a new ranking by Taste of Country, Johnson bests country music darlings like Luke Combsand Lainey Wilson. The outlet cites Johnson’s old-fashioned rags-to-riches road to success as a testament to the singer’s enduring talent, writing, “Cody Johnson isn't the flashiest personality in country music today, but he's arguably the most consistent. That's the biggest reason why he clocks in at the top of our list of Country Music's 25 Most Important Modern Artists.”

@kendranicole911

@Cody Johnson on repeat 💛 @Ariel🖤 #COJO #codyjohnson #concert #fyp

♬ original sound - Kendra Nicole📚💛🖤

Related: 1970 Blues-Rock Album Born From a Band's Breakup Named an Underrated Gem

How Cody Johnson Built His Country Music Career

Cody Johnson may be country music’s newly anointed most important artist, but the 39-year-old Texas native’s road to success didn’t come easily. A well-known independent country artist known for his old-school grit, he didn’t have his breakthrough into mainstream country until 2021 with his inspirational anthem "’Til You Can’t." The song became his first No. 1 country radio hit and earned him a Grammy Award for Best Country Song, establishing him as one of the genre’s leading voices.

Why Cody Johnson's Independent Success Matters @kendranicole911

@Cody Johnson on repeat 💛 @Ariel🖤 #COJO #codyjohnson #concert #fyp

♬ original sound - Kendra Nicole📚💛🖤

While many of country music’s biggest stars found success through television singing competitions or viral social media clips, Cody Johnson built his audience over more than a decade, selling out dance halls across Texas before signing with Warner Music Nashville in 2019. By then, he had already established himself as an independent artist with a devoted following.

Why Cody Johnson Is One of Country Music’s Most Important Artists

One of modern country music’s biggest stars, Cody Johnson has become a leading voice for traditional country music at a time when the genre continues to evolve and many artists blur the lines between country and pop. Johnson’s songs embrace classic country themes like faith, family, and small-town life, proving that commercial success doesn’t have to come at the expense of authenticity.

Related: Taste of Country Names the Best Song on Luke Combs' New Album 'The Way I Am'

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Béla Fleck, the Grammy-winning musician whose innovative career has earned him the title of "The World's Best Banjoist," turns 68 today, July 10. Over a career spanning more than four decades, Fleck has transformed perceptions of the banjo, blending bluegrass, jazz, classical, folk and world music while becoming one of the instrument's most celebrated ambassadors.

In a 2018 profile, The Forward described Fleck as "the world's best banjojist," highlighting a career that has taken him far beyond traditional bluegrass. The publication noted that he has collaborated with everyone from jazz legend Chick Corea to the Dave Matthews Bandwhile earning Grammy recognition across an astonishing range of musical genres.

Fleck's musical journey began with an unlikely source of inspiration. As a young boy growing up in New York City, he became captivated after hearing Earl Scruggs' banjo playing on the theme from The Beverly Hillbillies. Years later, his grandfather found a banjo at a garage sale and gave it to the teenager, setting him on a path that would change his life. On the train ride home, a stranger tuned the instrument for him and recommended Pete Seeger's instructional book "How to Play the Five String Banjo," advice Fleck eagerly followed.

That early passion soon paid off. After studying with acclaimed banjo players Erik Darling, Marc Horowitz and Tony Trischka, Fleck joined the progressive bluegrass band New Grass Revival before launching Béla Fleck and the Flecktones, whose adventurous blend of jazz, bluegrass and funk earned widespread acclaim. Along the way, he also collaborated with artists including Jerry Garcia, Edgar Meyer, Zakir Hussain and Dave Matthews, continually expanding the possibilities of his instrument.

Fleck told The Forward he still remembers exactly why the banjo captured his imagination.

"That Earl Scruggs three-finger picking, that whole style of bluegrass, had nothing to do with me culturally. But the sound of that banjo just grabbed my ear. I felt intoxicated," said Fleck.

His curiosity eventually led him far beyond American roots music. In 2008, Fleck released the acclaimed documentary Throw Down Your Heart, traveling across Africa to explore the banjo's musical ancestry while collaborating with local musicians. The project reflected the same musical openness that has defined his entire career.

Today, Fleck has won 18 Grammy Awards and has been nominated dozens of times across genres ranging from country and bluegrass to jazz, classical, folk, pop and spoken word. More than half a century after first hearing a banjo on television, he remains one of music's most inventive and influential instrumentalists.

Related: Dave Matthews Band Fans Just Got Some Huge News

There's a very specific kind of magic to Celebrity Cruises’ Solstice-class ships. For many longtime cruisers, this is the fleet that made them fall in love with the brand in the first place—balancing a classic, premium cruise feel with spacious, breezy decks that let the ocean do the talking.

But even the most beloved classics deserve a little rejuvenation.

Celebrity has officially announced that Celebrity Reflection is getting a top-to-bottom transformation. When the ship heads back out to sea in March 2027, it will be sporting 13 brand-new spaces. The line is essentially taking the absolute best, blending modern design hits from its cutting-edge Edge Series with brand-new concepts freshly introduced on Celebrity Solstice, all seamlessly woven into the classic layout we know and love.

According to Celebrity Cruises President Laura Hodges Bethge, this fleetwide project is way more than just a quick cosmetic refresh. “With Celebrity Reflection, we’re evolving the guest experience in meaningful ways,” Hodges Bethge shared, “introducing 13 new spaces designed to help guests relax, explore, and connect in ways that feel effortless and unforgettable.”

Whether you're planning a quick long-weekend escape or a week-long island-hopping adventure, here is a look at the most exciting new spots to put on your radar:

Related: Celebrity Cruises Just Relaunched Its Most Iconic Ship—and It's Heading to Alaska This Summer

The Redesigned Outdoor Decks

Celebrity Cruises

If your favorite part of a cruise is spending the afternoon with your feet up, drink in hand, listening to the water, you are going to love the new top-deck setup. The heart of the outdoor space is being transformed into the Celebrity Pool Club, which is getting a lush, tropical makeover complete with plush daybeds, extra shade and two brand-new poolside dining spots:

• Orange Peel Bar & Grille: A casual, sunny spot serving up premium smashburgers and grilled classics alongside frozen cocktails.
• Tacos del Sol: A laid-back, open-air taco bar where you can build your own custom plates with fresh toppings right by the pool.

If you head further up to the top deck, you’ll find Sunset Park—a half-acre green oasis designed to feel like a real park at sea. It’s the perfect, relaxed spot for morning meditation, afternoon lawn games, or catching an open-air concert or movie under the stars. You can even rent private cabanas with dedicated attendants, grab a light bite at the Sunset Park Café, or enjoy a cocktail at the expanded Sunset Bar.

I experienced the new Sunset Park firsthand on Celebrity Solstice this spring. As we sailed past icy glaciers and the brilliant Alaskan wilderness, the open-air deck offered a perfect connection to the sea—and a fantastic backdrop for catching up with friends and family. Bringing this space to Celebrity Reflection makes perfect sense; it's bound to become a Solstice-class staple.

Related: The Most Popular Alaska Cruise for Families Is This 2008 Classic

Sophisticated Indoor Hangouts

Celebrity Cruises

On the inside, Celebrity is introducing some of its most popular modern signature spaces. The center of the ship will now feature a dramatic, three-story Grand Plaza—an open-air hub anchored by a spectacular new Martini Bar underneath a giant, show-stopping suspended chandelier, reminiscent of the Edge Series.

For evening entertainment, you can also drop by The Boulevard Lounge, a cabaret-inspired space that will host everything from daytime game shows to intimate, candlelit dueling piano performances at night. Right next door, you can grab a pre-show drink at the new Boulevard Bar, or head over to The Parlor—an elevated sports and gaming lounge packed with classic board games, billiards, craft whiskies, and over-the-top gourmet milkshakes. Both spaces have already proved instantly popular on Celebrity Solstice.

Related: 8 Best Refurbished Cruise Ships to Experience Luxury for Less This Spring

Exciting New Dining Spots

Celebrity Cruises

The ship's restaurant lineup is also getting a massive upgrade, pulling in a few fan-favorite concepts from Celebrity’s newest vessels:

• Bora:Bora: First introduced on Celebrity Xcel, this gorgeous Mediterranean-inspired rooftop venue shifts from a breezy, customizable brunch by day to chef-led, shareable plates at night. It instantly became one of my favorite all-time cruise spaces.
• Trattoria Rossa: A cozy Italian eatery serving Roman classics and fresh, house-made pastas prepared tableside. The atmosphere is incredibly warm and homey—you truly feel transported the moment you walk through the door.
• Fine Cut Steakhouse: Celebrity's award-winning signature steakhouse, widely celebrated for its premium 30-day dry-aged steaks, upscale seafood, and panoramic sea views.

The Travel Details

The newly modernized Celebrity Reflection will begin sailing year-round out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida in March 2027.

If you want a quick taste of the new amenities, you can book one of her short three- and four-night escapes down to Key West and The Bahamas. If you want a longer, slow-paced vacation, she will also be running six- and eight-night journeys down to the southern Caribbean, stopping in sun-soaked ports like Aruba, Curaçao and Bonaire. (And if you are a loyalist of the brand, you can also look out for the highly anticipated 2027 President’s Cruise, sailing on the renewed ship from May 10–14, 2027).

What Cruise Fans Are Already Saying

As soon as the news broke, the Cruise Critic forums were abuzz with excitement. Celebrity Reflection has long been a fan-favorite, a sentiment echoed by Colleen McDaniel, Editor-in-Chief of Cruise Critic: "Celebrity Reflection is consistently one of the most popular ships on Cruise Critic, coming in as the most-searched cruise ship on the site for the past two years. So it's really exciting to hear of the upcoming updates to such a beloved ship—especially as many of them have already been rolled out on sister-ship, Celebrity Solstice, and have been getting a really positive response from cruisers. If what we're hearing from cruisers is any indication, this is sure to be another huge win for Celebrity and travelers, alike." Everyday cruisers wasted no time sharing their thoughts on the massive redesign—especially those who have already experienced the layout updates firsthand:

• A Massive Entertainment Upgrade: Cruisers are already praising the new layout choices over older setups. Cruise Critic member Ship Traveler, who sailed the newly updated Solstice in Alaska, noted: "We did like the Boulevard Lounge so much better for game show events than the middle of hall Celebrity entertainment court. The Parlor was also a very popular new venue." They added that while their chilly Alaska itinerary kept them from fully testing the new top-deck features, they "look forward to seeing the changes on the Reflection" for sunny Caribbean sailings.
• A Welcomed Fleet Investment: For longtime loyalists, seeing love given to existing ships is a huge win. Member Stem to Stern summed it up perfectly, sharing: "It is great to know [Celebrity] is investing in their aging hardware."
• Hopes for the Itineraries: With a ship this thoroughly modernized, some fans are already crossing their fingers for more diverse sailing options down the road. Member foodsvcmgr commented: "It would be nice to see such a thoroughly renovated ship be assigned to some longer, more interesting Caribbean sailings, not just the constant 3-4 night rotation."

By listening to passenger feedback and investing heavily in the venues travelers already love, Celebrity Cruises is proving that a ship doesn't have to be brand new to offer a world-class, state-of-the-art vacation.

Related: Celebrity Unveils the Newly Reimagined Solstice in Alaska and It’s a Super-Chic Way to See the Last Frontier

Although summer is a time for vacations, pool days, and backyard gatherings, it can also be one of the busiest seasons of the year. Between camps, travel, and packed schedules, finding an easy meal isn't always simple. Fortunately, Costco's deli department has two new prepared-food options that can help take some of the stress out of lunch or dinner.

Spotted in stores this week, the warehouse giant is now offering Italian Sausage Pasta and Mango Salmon Ceviche, two very different options depending on what you're craving.

Check them out in this July 8 Instagram from @discovering_costco:

View this post on Instagram Costco's Deli Has Two New Finds for Easy Summer Meals

The Italian Sausage Pasta features orecchiette pasta tossed with roasted garlic wine sauce, fresh spinach, tomatoes, Italian sausage, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Priced at $5.49 per pound, most containers cost about $22, making it an easy option for feeding a family or for leftovers the next day.

Related: Costco's New Honey-Sweetened Ice Cream Cups Are a Feel-Good Summer Find

If you're looking for something lighter, Costco is also offering Mango Salmon Ceviche. Made with salmon, mango, serrano peppers, and cilantro, the colorful prepared dish is priced at $18.99 per pound, with most containers costing about $16.

Both items recently appeared on Instagram, where Costco fans were quick to share their thoughts. One commenter wrote, "The sausage pasta looks like the bomb!" while another enthusiastically celebrated the second option with a simple "Mango ceviche!"

Classic Ceviche with Mango in a martini glass.

Douglas Miles / Getty Images

The two new deli additions showcase the variety Costco has become known for in its prepared foods department. The Italian Sausage Pasta can easily become a complete meal with a simple green salad and a side of garlic bread. Meanwhile, the Mango Salmon Ceviche works equally well as a light meal or an appetizer. Serve it with tortilla chips or crackers for easy entertaining, or spoon it into martini glasses with tostadas on the side for a presentation that feels a little more dinner-party worthy.

Whether you're looking for a hearty family dinner, a quick weeknight meal, or an easy dish to share with guests, these Costco deli finds can help get a flavorful dinner on the table with very little effort.

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If a stand mixer has been sitting on your kitchen wish list, Amazon is making it easier than ever to bring one home. The retailer just slashed the price on Martha Stewart’s 5.3-Quart Stand Mixer, dropping it from $150 to just $105. Whether you’re whipping up cookies for the family, or experimenting with new recipes, this stylish kitchen essential is a budget-friendly way to upgrade your baking setup. 

With 12 speed settings, a spacious 5.3-quart bowl, and five stylish colors to choose from, the stand mixer is designed to handle everything from fluffy whipped cream to thick bread dough. Reviewers have praised the mixer, describing it as “sleek and powerful.” One home baker even shared that it has quickly become their “new baking must-have.” That’s high praise for an appliance that just debuted on Amazon in April.

Martha Stewart 5.3-Quart Stand Mixer, $105 (was $150) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

The Martha Stewart 5.3-Qt Stand Mixer is designed to fit comfortably in smaller kitchens.  Its generous 5.3 quart stainless steel bowl has enough capacity for larger batches, including bread dough, cake batter, and up to nine dozen cookies. According to some reviewers, the motor is also quiet. One shopper said, “I love that it’s not noisy, so you can be in the room with it while it’s doing the work for you.” 

The tilt-head design makes it simple to add ingredients, scrape down the sides, and change attachments while you work. Cleanup is easy, too, thanks to a “genius” removable splash guard and pour chute that prevent messy splatters. The mixer includes three attachments: a wire whisk, a dough hook, and a flat beater with a silicone edge that reaches the sides of the bowl while mixing. All accessories are dishwasher safe. 

Shoppers are loving this mixer for its mix of performance and style. "Great mixer with high speed mixing and easy clean up!" one said. Another said, "It's so much more affordable than other stand mixers, but the mixing power is just as solid, and it feels well-made." A third liked how user-friendly it was, and wrote "It is easy to use and comes with everything I need." 

The mixer is available in five colorways: gray, blue, sky blue, green and cream.

Shop More Deals

• Martha Stewart Succulents Oven Mitt Set, $12 (was $20) at Amazon
• Martha Stewart Lots of Lemons Kitchen Set, $20 (was $34) at Amazon
• Martha Stewart Kitchen Towel 2-Pack Set, $11 (was $15) at Amazon

Related: Martha Stewart's 100% Cotton Mushroom Towel Set Adds Cozy Cottagecore Charm to Kitchens for Just $12

For home bakers, the Martha Stewart 5.3-Quart Stand Mixer is a great buy at just $105. The price doesn't dip this low often, so it's worth grabbing before the price goes back up!

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.

If you woke up early enough today to catch Carnival Cruise Line’s live early-morning broadcast straight from Italy, you were treated to a massive, deeply emotional slice of maritime history.

Since the order was first announced in 2024, the travel industry has been whispering about Project Ace—the highly classified code name for Carnival’s upcoming class of absolute mega-ships. But during a live-streamed event at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, Carnival President Christine Duffy officially stepped up to push the button on the plasma cutter, initiating construction on the grandest build in the line's history.

And she started by dropping a total blockbuster of a name reveal.

The first of these groundbreaking, 230,000-gross-ton ships arriving in 2029 will officially be named Carnival Destiny.

Related: Carnival Finally Reveals Details About Its Mysterious Next Ship Project

A Full-Circle Moment for a Cruise Legend View this post on Instagram

To understand why this launch is such a massive deal, you have to look back to the ship that originally changed the entire layout of modern cruising.

When the original Carnival Destiny launched out of this exact Italian shipyard three decades ago, it broke the Guinness World Record as the largest passenger ship in the world. It didn't just break records for its size; it fundamentally altered how travelers interacted with the water, introducing the industry’s first two-deck main dining room, a multi-tiered Lido deck, and a staggering 480 balcony cabins that multiplied Carnival's previous fleet offerings nearly tenfold.

"In 1996, Fincantieri built Carnival Destiny, which as you heard, was the first cruise ship to exceed 100,000 tons," Duffy shared from the stage. "And to put that in perspective, that was 30 percent larger than any cruise ship that the world had ever seen... So she revolutionized entertainment spaces on cruise ships. And of course, features like balcony cabins became far more available."

The decades since have proven just how deep those roots run. Duffy noted that 65 of the original 1996 crew members are still working for Carnival today—including beloved brand ambassador John Heald, who served as the original Carnival Destiny cruise director—with many having risen from entry-level galley positions to become fleet captains and chief engineers. She emphasized that this partnership with Fincantieri has always been about complete reinvention, pointing to the massive 2013 dry dock that successfully transformed that original vessel into Carnival Sunshine.

"That project also demonstrated and reinforced the partnership and what we can do together with Fincantieri. Not just building new ships, but transforming—reimagining the existing ships to create something completely new," she said. "So now, on to our new baby."

Related: Carnival Announces a Massive Overhaul to Onboard Dining—Here's What's Changing

Introducing the Ace Class: "More Sea to See"

With a quick smile, Duffy officially transitioned into the future, announcing the official name for the 230,000-gross-ton mega-ships that will soon dominate the global cruise landscape.

"Today does mark another important step forward because with this steel cutting, we begin construction on a new class of ships for Carnival Cruise Line, which we are officially calling Ace class," Duffy declared. "The three Ace-class ships coming in 2029, '31, and '33 are designed to change how guests will experience the sea while on their cruise. We like to say that they will have more sea to see."

And to the absolute delight of longtime brand loyalists tracking the live stream online, Duffy revealed that the flagship vessel of this new era will be reviving that historic moniker.

"And the name of the first ship in this new class will carry a name that I think will bring meaning for all of us, because we are building on our history while we move forward with the new Carnival Destiny," Duffy announced.

While specific interior deck plans are being kept under lock and key until a secondary reveal event scheduled for this fall, Duffy dropped the physical specifications that will make this 2029 "jumbo" vessel a total game-changer.

"She is a big step forward. Not only for Carnival, but we believe for the industry. She will be the most outward-facing ship in our fleet. With more ocean views across more spaces," Duffy revealed. "She will feature reimagined lanai decks, more than four and a half acres of glass, the most balcony cabins with ocean views at sea, and more than 70 of our dining, entertainment, and signature guest experiences will be delivered brand new."

As the plasma cutter officially roared to life to slice the very first piece of hull plating, Duffy closed out the historic morning by looking ahead to the long road of innovation still to come.

"We are focused together on innovating for the future. Building upon what we know our guests already love in the same way that the original Carnival Destiny did that 30 years ago," Duffy concluded. "So today, as we cut the steel on our next generation ship, it is fitting that we are here together again with Fincantieri to begin the next chapter... Now, let's go build that ship."

Related: Carnival's Next Ship is Getting a First-of-Its-Kind Coffee Hub That Completely Transforms at 3 P.M.

Even though we're in the heat of summer, Hallmark Channel is sending viewers chill vibes with their Christmas in July programming event. The network will feature holiday movies everyday throughout the month of July as well as premiering four new original movies. On top of that, Season 2 of Christmas at Sea, the network's reality series following Uber-Hallmark fans on the network's Christmas cruise premieres on their streaming platform, Hallmark+.

Let's take a look at all the new Christmas movies coming in July as well as some sneak peeks of upcoming Christmas movies that will premiere later this year on the network.

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What are the new Christmas movies premiering this month? Jessica Lowndes, Daniel Lissing Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy MPCA

Hallmark Media

Christmas Under Construction

Starring Jessica Lowndes, Daniel Lissing
Premiered on July 4

Chelsea (Lowndes) and Jake (Adam Hurtig)are America’s sweethearts and the stars of a hit reality show, Renovation Romance, where they help couples transform their homes and relationships. For a live Christmas special, they’re tasked with renovating a cozy New Hampshire cabin alongside a new duo, Cooper (Lissing) and Janice (Samantha Kendrick).  But behind the festive cheer, Chelsea and Jake’s relationship is fading. As their latest project progresses, it becomes clear to Chelsea that she and Jake have different priorities in life and must decide if their relationship can be salvaged or if it’s time for a fresh start.

Related: Daniel Lissing Returns to Hallmark in New Christmas Movie—See the Exclusive Sneak Peek

Stephen Huszar, Katherine Barrell Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Vortex Media

Hallmark Media

O Little Christmas Market

Starring Katherine Barrell, Stephen Huszar
Premieres on July 11

Olivia (Barrell) is a gifted miniature artist who has devoted her heart to the town’s Christmas market, a tradition started by her late father.  When a corporate developer plans to tear it down, she risks losing the legacy she holds dear.  A chance meeting at a train station with Grayson (Huszar), a talented yet unfulfilled architect, sparks an unexpected connection.  Their bond is tested when Olivia learns his firm is behind the buyout.  As Christmas draws near Olivia rallies the community to save the market after securing a delay to the final decision.  Amid the holiday magic, Grayson and Olivia’s romance blossoms despite being on seemingly opposite sides of the deal. Together, they must find a way to merge their dreams and save the market, discovering that in order to endure love – like art – requires taking a leap of faith. 

Related: Exclusive Sneak Peek! ‘Wynonna Earp’ Star Katherine Barrell Fights to Save Christmas in Hallmark’s ‘O Little Christmas Market’

Nick Bateman, Jen Lilley

Hallmark Media

Snowbound for the Holidays

Starring Vanessa Lengies, Marcus Rosner
Premieres on July 18

Hotel manager Cassidy Evergreen (Lengies) evaluates a cozy ski lodge, but Christmas magic and its charming owner, Trey Sanderson (Rosner), turn a simple assignment into a heartfelt choice between duty and love.

Marcus Rosner, Vanessa Lengies Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Vortex Media

Hallmark Media

Love Under the Mistletoe

Starring Jen Lilley, Nick Bateman
Premieres July 25

Grace (Lilley) and her former high school crush, Ryan (Bateman), work together to revive the beloved charity fundraiser and seem to constantly find themselves under strategically placed mistletoe.

Jonathan Bennett, Tyler Hynes, Paul Campbell Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer:  Kim Nunneley

Hallmark Media

Christmas at Sea (Season 2)

Premieres July 1 on Hallmark+

Get ready for another adventure on the high seas as Hallmark superfans meet their favorite stars on a Christmas cruise to Cozumel, Mexico. With holiday cheer, unforgettable moments, and celebrity surprises, this cruise is one to remember. Features Hallmark Stars: Benjamin Ayres, Jonathan Bennett, Rachel Boston, B.J. Britt, Wes Brown, Erin Cahill, Paul Campbell, Taylor Cole, Nikki DeLoach, Heather Hemmens, Tyler Hynes, Ginna Claire Maso, Brendan Penny, Kimberley Sustad, Andrew Walker, and Ashley Williams.

When does Countdown to Christmas begin this year?

While an exact date has yet to be announced, in recent years Countdown to Christmas has begun in late October. Take a look at a sneak peek of what's coming this year.

Will there be another Christmas collaboration with the NFL this season?

Yes! Hallmark Media recently announced a third collaboration with the NFL. The Chicago Bears joins the Kansas City Chiefs and the Buffalo Bills for their own Hallmark Christmas movie in Holiday Touchdown: A Bears Love Story. Cast has yet to be revealed, but check out the short video featuring Bears Head Coach Ben Johnson and Tight End Colston Loveland announcing the project below.

Does Parade have any sneak peeks of other upcoming Hallmark Christmas movies?

Yes! Filming has completed on Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True starring Lacey Chabert, Travis Van Winkle, Christy Carlson Romano, and Richard Kind. The film shot on location at Disney World and Hollywood Studios in Orlando, Florida during the Christmas season late last year and earlier this year. Check out the first look below.

Next, Lacey Chabert Is Bringing Hallmark Christmas Magic to Disney World Later This Year—See the First Look

In 1981, Judas Priest took fans on the ultimate road trip with “Heading Out to the Highway.”

The lead single from the album Point of Entry featured a hard rock intro, dual guitar solos, and frontman Rob Halford’s arena-ready vocals about taking control.

Written by Halford, K.K. Downing and Glenn Tipton, "Heading Out to the Highway” soared to No. 10 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Chart in April 1981. It remains one of the legendary British metal band’s most memorable radio-ready hits more than 45 years later—and an absolute anthem for the open road.

Halford once told Songfacts the song was about “freedom.”

“You've got the wheel, and you're not going to let anybody else take your life away from you,” he shared. “You're out there into the great, vast landscape of life, and life is a highway. That's just a correlation between the two sets of things.”

“I think everybody feels like that when they get into a car, especially when they make a journey,” Halford continued. “It's like you're in some kind of control because ‘you're in the driver's seat,’ which is also another expression of being assertive. So, it's just a fun song of freedom and determination.”

Guitarist Glenn Tipton noted that “Heading Out to the Highway” was also an ode to American highways.

"That was a very American-sounding track,” he told Guitar World of the song. “Priest always remained a very British-sounding metal band, which I think was our appeal to American audiences. But ‘Heading Out to the Highway’ was one point where we crossed over.“

"I mean, in England, you wouldn't say you went down the highway; you'd say you went down the road!” he explained. “It speaks of the freedom of the American highways – that Harley-Davidson approach."

RELATED:  1979 Rock Classic Featuring Three-Minute Twin Guitar Solos Became a Road Trip Anthem

Judas Priest’s music video became a classic

“Heading Out to the Highway” was one of Judas Priest’s earliest songs to get the MTV treatment. The accompanying Julien Temple-directed music video featured the band performing the song on a desert highway set amid footage of a classic car race.

Despite its low-budget look, Billboard ranked “Heading Out to the Highway” among the greatest car-themed videos of all time. The outlet noted that the video for the “fist-raising anthem” starts out “on a set painted to look like a two-lane desert road at dusk before singer Rob Halford sprints out to the middle of a rural road to shout encouragement at his bandmates as they check their hair one last time before peeling out in their vintage hot rods.”

Slashgear also gave “Heading Out to the Highway” a shout-out on its list of “coolest cars in 1980s music videos,” pointing to the video's footage of “a drag race between a 1956 Ford Thunderbird and an all-time classic GM vehicle in the 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air.”

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In the late fall of 1995, an unassuming folk-rock track hit the radio airwaves and completely changed the way music listeners imagined what God would be like as a regular person.

One of Us was written by Eric Bazilian of The Hooters and delivered with raw, captivating sincerity by Joan Osborne. The song bypassed traditional religious beliefs to connect directly with the hearts of millions of everyday listeners.

The song asked, "What if God was one of us? Just a slob like one of us? Just a stranger on the bus, trying to make his way home." This unique perspective allowed listeners, no matter what their religious affiliation, to see themselves in the religious figure.

It was a massive gamble that paid off almost instantly. By grounding God as a person doing something as mundane as commuting around a city on a bus, the track didn't just play on the radio; it sparked a conversation.

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Osborne was thrust right into the center of the whirlwind. As the track steadily climbed its way up the Billboard charts, it became clear that "One of Us" wasn’t just going to be another fleeting 90s radio hit.

The musician told The Guardian in 2024, "The chorus reminded me of the sort of question a kid might ask a parent: 'What if God was one of us?' So when I sang it, I played up that kind of innocence."

Osborne continued, "I didn’t even dream of the song becoming a sensation, but a radio station in Atlanta started playing it, and people wanted to hear it again and again. Other stations followed suit."

"The lyrics play with deeper concepts like the good Samaritan or the Buddhist view that God is in all of us, but conservative religious groups took great exception because it flew in the face of their view that humans are inherently sinful and nothing like God. I was getting death threats and people were picketing my concerts. Thankfully that was a fleeting thing," she concluded.

The song's writer, Bazilian, added, "The key line is: 'What would you ask if you just had one question?' But my first impression was that it wasn’t about God. It was about what would happen if you saw something that blew your worldview out of the water."

He concluded, "I’ve had to explain many times that I’m not calling God a slob, and that it’s really a song about human beings. Her delivery was perfect because [Joan] asks the question in such a wide-eyed way but has the voice of experience. So it’s a grown-up voice with a child’s imagination."

"One of Us" was released in December 1995. It reached No. 4 on the Billboard charts, peaking in February 1996, and hails from her debut LP, Relish.

Although "One of Us" was technically a one-hit-wonder for Joan Osborne, her career continued to flourish after its success. For over thirty years, she has been performing in clubs, theaters, arenas, and stadiums, with her own band and as a featured vocalist.

According to her official website, she duetted with Luciano Pavarotti, Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder, Patti Smith, Emmylou Harris, Mavis Staples, and Isaac Hayes. Osborne later co-headlined Lilith Fair, launched a career as a producer, and continues to tour throughout 2026.

Related: 1986 Retro Rock Hit Marked a Major Turning Point for a Beloved Philadelphia Band

No matter how old you are, a good game of trivia never goes out of style. But for seniors, it can be even more fun if it brings back memories of classic TV shows, chart-topping songs, blockbuster movies, legendary sports moments and unforgettable pop culture, especially when it includes questions centered around the mid-20th century. So, if you're searching for nostalgicfun facts, you've hit the jackpot as we've rounded up the 75 besttrivia questions for seniors that might just shake up game night. After all, one query can quickly turn into a spirited debate over who remembers it best!

This collection is packed with quiz questions that celebrate the decades many retirees know best, covering everything from the 1950s and 1960s to beloved celebrities, history, food, toys, slang, music and more. Whether you're playing with friends, family or a senior group, these questions are designed to get everyone talking, laughing and saying, "I remember that!"

Best of all, this list includes trivia for seniors with answers, so there's no need to guess who's right. Are you ready to put your memory to the test? See how many of these Q's you can get right! You can keep score, crown a trivia champion or simply enjoy reminiscing together and play for fun.

Related: Psychologist Says if You Were Born in the 1950s, You Likely Have These 7 Traits

75 Best Trivia Questions for Seniors

1. Question: What TV show featured Ricky, Lucy, Fred and Ethel?
   Answer: I Love Lucy
2. Question: What famous toy was introduced in 1959 and became a cultural icon?Answer: Barbie
3. Question: What movie features the line, “Here’s looking at you, kid”?
   Answer: Casablanca
4. Question: What U.S. state was added as the 50th state in 1959?
   Answer: Hawaii
5. Question: What fast-food chain opened its first franchise in 1955?
   Answer: McDonald’s
6. Question: What 1964 Disney film features a magical nanny?
   Answer: Mary Poppins
7. Question: What year did the Berlin Wall go up?
   Answer: 1961
8. Question: What type of skirt is known for being short and often worn with go-go boots?
   Answer: Mini skirt
9. Question: What famous space agency was founded in 1958?
   Answer: NASA
10. Question: Who gave the “I Have a Dream” speech?
    Answer: Martin Luther King Jr.
11. Question: What famous explorer first climbed Mount Everest in 1953?
    Answer: Sir Edmund Hillary
12. Question: What U.S. president was assassinated in 1963?
    Answer: John F. Kennedy
13. Question: Wendy's was founded in 1962 in what Ohio city?
    Answer: Columbus
14. Question: How many kids were in the main cast of the 1969 show The Brady Bunch
    Answer: Six

Funny Trivia for Seniors

1. Question: What Beatles song made “yeah, yeah, yeah” culturally iconic?
   Answer: "She Loves You"
2. Question: Finish this 1950s phrase: “That’s cool,......”
   Answer: “That’s cool, Daddy-o”
3. Question: What show made Ricky Ricardo famous for saying “You’ve got some ‘splaining to do”?
   Answer: I Love Lucy
4. Question: What series made “Bam! Pow!” a household sound effect?
   Answer: Batman
5. Question: What phrase meant a dance party in the 1950s?
   Answer: Sock hop
6. Question: Words like "bread" meant what in the 1950s?
   Answer: Money
7. Question: What Elvis Presley song mentioned a pet in it?
   Answer: "Hound Dog"
8. Question: What 1960s slang meant something was amazing or impressive?
   Answer: Groovy
9. Question: What NBA legend was known as “Wilt the Stilt”?
   Answer: Wilt Chamberlain
10. Question: Which 1960s show featured a talking horse?
    Answer: Mister Ed

Related: 75 Best 1970s Trivia Questions To Stump Your Friends and Family

Music Trivia for Seniors

1. Question: Who first sang the song “Stand By Me,” in 1961?
   Answer: Ben E. King
2. Question: Who was the lead singer of The Rolling Stones?
   Answer: Mick Jagger
3. Question: What year did the song "Tutti Frutti” by Little Richard come out?
   Answer: 1955
4. Question: What was Elvis Presley’s first number-one hit single?
   Answer: "Heartbreak Hotel"
5. Question: "Help Me Rhonda" and "Good Vibrations" were sung by who?
   Answer: The Beach Boys
6. Question: Who sang “My Girl” with The Temptations?
   Answer: David Ruffin
7. Question: Which singer was known as the “Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll”?
   Answer: Tina Turner
8. Question: What band was John, Paul, George and Ringo?
   Answer: The Beatles
9. Question: Who was the lead singer of the band The Supremes?
   Answer: Diana Ross
10. Question: “I Got You Babe” was sung by what classic duo?
    Answer: Sonny & Cher
11. Question: Who was the youngest member of The Beatles?
    Answer: George Harrison
12. Question: What singer was known as the “King of Rock ’n’ Roll”?
    Answer: Elvis Presley
13. Question: Who recorded the 1967 song “Respect”?
    Answer: Aretha Franklin
14. Question: Who sang “Peggy Sue”?
    Answer: Buddy Holly
15. Question: "Hit the Road Jack" was originally sung by which artist?
    Answer: Ray Charles
16. Question: Who sang “My Guy”?
    Answer: Mary Wells

Related: 185 Trivia Questions for Teens To Get the Party Started (And Test Your Smarts)

'50s and '60s Pop Culture Trivia for Seniors

1. Question: What legendary Yankee hit 60 home runs in 1961?
   Answer: Roger Maris
2. Question: What boxer became “The Greatest” in the 1960s?
   Answer: Muhammad Ali
3. Question: What comic strip dog was Charlie Brown's best friend?
   Answer: Snoopy
4. Question: What 1961 Disney movie introduced audiences to Pongo and Perdita?
   Answer: One Hundred and One Dalmatians (or 101 Dalmatians)
5. Question: Name the six kids from the 1969 show The Brady Bunch.
   Answer: Greg, Peter, Bobby, Marcia, Jan and Cindy
6. Question: What TV show had a family that lived on Mayberry Street in North Carolina?
   Answer: The Andy Griffith Show
7. Question: What dance craze became popular in the early 1960s and involved twisting your hips?
   Answer: The Twist
8. Question: What's the name of the show from the 1960s that was about a family of animated stone-age characters?
   Answer: The Flintstones
9. Question: What New York team moved to California in 1958, shocking fans?
   Answer: Brooklyn Dodgers (now the Los Angeles Dodgers)
10. Question: What 1960s sitcom featured Samantha The Witch?
    Answer: Bewitched
11. Question: Who starred as James Bond in Dr. No?
    Answer: Sean Connery
12. Question: What 1960s musical featured Maria and the Von Trapp family?
    Answer: The Sound of Music
13. Question: What fast-food chain known for roast beef sandwiches was founded in 1964?
    Answer: Arby’s
14. Question: What teen dance show debuted in 1957?
    Answer: American Bandstand
15. Question: The 1960 book, To Kill a Mockingbird, was written by who?
    Answer: Harper Lee
16. Question: Who won an Academy Award for a lead role in the movie Roman Holiday?
    Answer: Audrey Hepburn
17. Question: What NFL team won the first Super Bowl in 1967?
    Answer: Green Bay Packers
18. Question: In the show Gilligan’s Island, what was the name of the boat?
    Answer: The S.S. Minnow
19. Question: Who won the World Series in 1960?
    Answer: The Pittsburgh Pirates
20. Question: What film features Marilyn Monroe standing over a subway grate?
    Answer: The Seven Year Itch
21. Question: What famous comedian starred in the show I Love Lucy?
    Answer: Lucille Ball
22. Question: What Japanese monster film became iconic worldwide in 1954?
    Answer: Godzilla
23. Question: Who wrote the 1957 book The Cat in the Hat?
    Answer: Dr. Seuss
24. Question: What Western featured the Cartwright family?
    Answer: Bonanza
25. Question: What animated sitcom featured a futuristic robot maid named Rosie?
    Answer: The Jetsons
26. Question: What show featured a wealthy oil family moving to California?
    Answer: The Beverly Hillbillies
27. Question: What show featured a farmhand named Eb Dawson?
    Answer: Green Acres
28. Question: What year was Disney's Cinderella released?
    Answer: 1950
29. Question: What 1961 movie features two gangs called the Sharks and the Jets?
    Answer: West Side Story
30. Question: What decade saw the rise of drive-in theaters?
    Answer: The 1950s
31. Question: What film features Audrey Hepburn in New York City as Holly Golightly?
    Answer: Breakfast at Tiffany’s
32. Question: What famous baseball player married Marilyn Monroe in 1954?
    Answer: Joe DiMaggio
33. Question: The book The Catcher in the Rye came out in what year?
    Answer: 1951
34. Question: What was the doll's name who was introduced as Barbie’s boyfriend in 1961?
    Answer: Ken
35. Question: What toy launched in 1956 that featured a miniature plastic ant habitat?
    Answer: Ant Farm toy

Up Next:

Related: 25 Popular Toys Every Kid Wanted in the 1960s

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Decluttering your kitchen, office, or bathroom doesn't have to be costly or complicated. Walmart's top-rated Sixwipe Lazy Susan 4-Pack Set is a smart and affordable solution that's currently on sale for over 40% off. The handy set is now available for just $21, down from $39, and it comes with four handy turntables to help you organize cluttered cabinets, counters, shelves, and desks. 

At 10 inches in diameter, the sturdy organizers are just the right size to fit effortlessly in small spaces, including cupboards, pantries, and under sinks. Despite their compact build, they offer ample space for storing a variety of items, including spices, snacks, toiletries, office supplies, and more. 

Sixwipe Lazy Susan 5-Pack Set, $21 (was $39) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Each lazy Susan is made of durable, food-safe plastic with sturdy stainless steel bearings that are designed for everyday use. The convenient, 360-degree rotating design turns smoothly, allowing you to easily access your items no matter where you place them. They also feature built-in non-skid liners, raised edges, and anti-slip feet on the base, keeping everything firmly in place and preventing jars, boxes, and other items from sliding or tipping while rotating. 

Related: Walmart's $60 8-Tier Cabinet Offers 'Amazing Storage' for Books, DVDs, and Collectibles

The top-rated set has earned over 120 five-star ratings from Amazon shoppers, who praised its functionality and "sturdy" construction. Several called it "useful" for decluttering small spaces, with one buyer noting that it's "great for organizing" their kitchen. Another said the turntables are the "perfect size" for cabinets and countertops. 

Shop More Deals

• Lamu Lazy Susan Organizer 3-Pack, $20 (was $26) at Walmart
• Goxteam Acacia Wood Lazy Susan, $18 (was $20) at Walmart
• Zhinenie Smooth Rotation Lazy Susan Turntable, $16 (was $22) at Walmart

This four-pack of lazy Susans is an easy way to help tame clutter all around your home. It's sturdy, compact, and a great value at over 40% off. Snag a set while it's still on sale for just $21 at Walmart. 

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

I only pack with a carry-on when I'm traveling for under two-weeks.

Many people think that is practically impossible, but I've traveled to practically every continent doing just that. When people try to pack like this and fail, I notice one common mistake: they forget to utilize their personal item. When I pack, I consider my personal item as an extremely important part of my Tetris-like packing equation. Of course, before you head to the airport, check your airline's size requirements for the personal item.

Recently, I've been using the Antler Tote Bag, which has worked as a great size for a personal item. It fits a ton of items, keeps everything organized, fits under the seat in front of me and looks incredibly chic while I go throughout my travels. Now, I'll take you through every single item that I pack in my personal item.

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Related: How I Pack for a 7-Day Trip With a Single Shoulder Bag

Inside The Personal Item The anatomy of a five-year global nomad's personal item. From tech cord management to the ultimate in-flight comfort kit, every single item has an exact, non-negotiable purpose.

Melissa Cabey

One major thing to ask yourself when packing your personal item is "what do I want easy access to while I'm traveling?" This will make a lot of decisions nice and easy for you. I always start with electronics here. I know that I always want my phone charger, headphones, external charger, and laptop in arm's reach. I put all of the corded items in a small bag, that way they stay organized. My bag has a laptop sleeve that keeps it safe and in place.

After that, I think about my health necessities. Water is the most important, so I slide that right into the side of the tote bag. In the Antler brand bag, there is a little section that holds your water bottle in place inside the bag. After that, I place my medications in a zipper inside the bag. You never know if you will need easy access to your medications, so it's better to have them as close to you as possible. I always throw in a pair of compression socks for a long flight, and I put them on right before I board the plane. Lastly, I pack a snack, that way my blood sugar doesn't get low on a long travel day.

For comfort, I bring a head and neck support that ties around the airplane seat. It's compact, so it fits nicely in my personal item, and it helps me get rest on long haul flights. I also put my makeup bag in the personal item instead of my carry-on, that way I can touch up my makeup before we land. Lastly, I throw in a pair of sunglasses, my camera and a good book.

Related: The Carry-On Hack That Never Fails Me After 5 Years of Travel

How I Pack The Personal Item Differently For Short Flights

If I'm packing for a short flight, my personal item tends to get packed a bit differently. I usually don't bring the compression socks, neck support or bag of snacks. I also pack my makeup bag inside my carry-on instead. This leaves a lot of room in my carry-on for other items. In this case, I'll often place an outfit in the personal item to change into once I land. Especially if I'm heading somewhere like a cruise or resort, I can have an outfit easily accessible incase my room isn't ready yet.

Another item that you could place inside your personal item is a pair of shoes. Sometimes, you really want to bring an extra pair of shoes for a trip. Instead of forcing it to fit inside your carry-on, designate the bottom area of your personal item for the pair of shoes. I always wrap mine in a shower cap, that way they don't get anything else in my bag dirty.

Related: I Traveled for a Year in One Suitcase—Thanks to These Ultra-Comfy Sneakers

3 Things a Travel Pro Never Packs in a Personal Item

While it’s tempting to maximize every inch of your under-seat bag, overloading it can backfire at the gate or mid-flight. You might want to avoid packing these three things:

• Bulky Outerwear: Never try to stuff heavy jackets or thick sweatshirts into your secondary bag. Wear them onto the plane instead to save precious volume.
• Full-Sized Liquids: Keep your toiletries strictly to TSA-approved travel sizes, and leave heavy, full-sized bottles at home or pack them in your main carry-on if necessary.
• Hardcover Books: They add unnecessary weight and awkward bulk. Stick to a lightweight e-reader or a single paperback to keep your bag flexible. (Editor's note: Unless it’s the biggest bestseller of the year, in which case, we fully support pulling a muscle for a good plot twist.)

How to Pack Your Personal Item for a Fast Security Line

A truly efficient packing system means you can breeze through airport security without holding up the line. Arrange your personal item with TSA checkpoints in mind:

• The Top Layer: Always place your liquid pouch and your laptop or tablet at the very top of your bag or in an easily accessible exterior pocket.
• The Tech Bundle: Keep your loose cords and chargers zipped away in a dedicated pouch so they don't tangle with other items when you pull your electronics out for screening.
• The Document Pocket: Designate a secure, zippered pocket on the outside of your bag specifically for your passport and boarding pass so you never have to fumble through your main compartments.

One Final Tip

Lastly, no matter your packing situation, always make sure that if you're also carrying a purse, it needs to fit in the personal item as well. I always bring a small purse or fanny pack with me, which holds my wallet and passport. That way I can easily access it while moving through the airport, then I can place the purse inside my personal item once I'm boarding the flight.

Related: A Flight Attendant Taught Me This Secret Carry-On Hack

Some people are content to keep their hobbies as just pastimes, while others can’t help but dream bigger. Whether they’re launching a business, sharing their creativity with the world, or refining a skill until it becomes their profession, there's no denying that some people possess a certain je ne sais quoi that makes turning a passion into a job feel like a natural next step. 

According to numerology and astrology, your birth date can reveal your natural strengths - including how you pursue your goals and develop your innate talents. While anyone can build a successful career doing what they love, these four birth dates possess qualities that make them especially likely to transform their favorite passion projects into a paycheck.

View this post on Instagram Which Birth Dates Are Most Likely to Turn Hobbies Into Career Success?

Check for your birth date. Disregard birth months.

The 1st - Natural Entrepreneurs Who Turn Ideas Into Income

People born on the 1st of any month are pioneers who trust their instincts and take the initiative, making them more likely to take risks and turn something they already love into a money-making endeavor. In numerology, the number 1 is associated with leadership, independence, and innovation, inspiring an ambitious desire to forge one’s own path fearlessly rather than simply wait for opportunities to appear.  Entrepreneurship appeals to this group because they are autonomous self-starters who like being their own bosses and have an innate trailblazing mindset that enables them to launch a business and pursue their passions with confidence. 

READ: Stevie Nicks and the Astrology of Becoming a Legend

The 3rd - Creative Souls Who Thrive Doing What They Love

Creativity is one of the greatest strengths embodied by those born on the 3rd of any month. Ruled by Jupiter, people born on the 3rd are naturally gifted communicators and have a predilection for artistic pursuits. Self-expression is incredibly important to them as they don’t want to keep their talents to themselves; their imagination is how they connect with others. This is the group that naturally has an affinity for turning a creative practice into a career because, for people born on the 3rd, a job that lacks a creative spark is a slow drain on their soul. Since they value their personal pleasure over a strict routine, monetizing a beloved hobby feels more like self-actualization than actual work. 

RELATE?: 3 Birth Months Walk Away From What No Longer Serves Them Beginning 7/9

The 5th - Curious Risk-Takers Who Discover Profitable Passions

Individuals born on the 5th of any month appreciate variety and are willing to explore opportunities that others might initially overlook. They appreciate their freedom and are curious and adaptable, so if anything goes awry, they are quick to try something new and embrace change rather than get stuck in the rut of doing something that no longer works. Rather than feeling tied to one lifelong pursuit, people born on the 5th enjoy experimenting and discovering unexpected talents. They’re quick to recognize emerging trends, pivot when new opportunities arise, and trust themselves enough to try something else. That openness leads them to discover a passion that not only brings them joy, but also has the potential to become a rewarding career.

EXPLORE: The Theme Song to Your Summer, Based on Your Birth Date

The 17th - Masters of Their Craft Who Turn Skill Into Success

A commitment to mastering one’s craft comes naturally to people born on the 17th of any month. Good things built to last take time, and the 17th combines the initiative of the number 1 with the introspective wisdom of the number 7, fostering an energetic understanding that true success is earned through dedication and commitment over time rather than by taking shortcuts. Their devotion to learning, refining their skills, and continually improving what they are already doing makes them especially well-equipped to transform a favorite hobby into a fulfilling career. Rather than rushing the process, those born on the 17th are willing to invest the time and effort needed to become experts in what they love.

UP NEXT:

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Once upon a time, I was really scared to mix patterns in a room. Like, if I had a space covered in a William Morris & Co-inspired wallpaper, I went solid with everything else in the space. The idea of unintentionally clashing with a different pattern had me paralyzed with fear. It felt like a next-level design move that I dare not even try to touch.

What I began to come to terms with is that not every pattern has to match perfectly. In reality, the most inviting rooms often look like they've evolved over time, with patterns that complement each other rather than coordinate exactly. So I started out by adding just one patterned pillow or throw blanket at a time. I'd live with it for a week, then build from there. You quickly get a feel for what works in your space without feeling like you've committed to a major makeover.

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If you're after a small lamp that delivers a surprisingly big style moment, this Tortoise Brown Glass Table Lamp from Target is it. The glass base and matching empire shade give it a rich, vintage-inspired look that feels far more expensive than its $20 price tag, making it an easy way to warm up a nightstand, bookshelf or entry table. It isn't cordless, but the sleek design more than makes up for having to plug it in. It comes with an LED bulb included, and its compact footprint means you can tuck it just about anywhere that could use a little extra glow and a whole lot of personality.

Room Essentials Trend Glass Table Lamp Tortoise Brown, $20 at Target Room Essentials Trend Glass Table Lamp

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Related: Aldi’s Colorful 8-Piece Mix and Prep Set Is a Cheerful Way to Streamline Weeknight Meals

Wondering what exactly an empire shade is? It's just the classic shape most people picture when they think of a table lamp. It's narrower at the top and gradually flares out toward the bottom, creating a gentle cone shape with slightly sloped sides. The wider bottom helps spread light downward while giving the lamp a timeless, balanced look that works with everything.

Target is well-stocked with all kinds of pretty patterns at the moment, not just this tortoise brown lamp. There's a gorgeous floral quilt set that complements so many different decor styles, and a toile dinnerware set made out of sturdy stoneware. Now, it's your chance to embrace patterns—as many as you like.

Related: Marshalls' Stunning Stoneware Casserole Dish Comes From a Beloved Brand and It's Only $25

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With this summer's record-breaking heat wave, staying cool outdoors is more important than ever. If you enjoy sunbathing, you know how quickly a towel or lounge chair can become uncomfortably hot. That's where tanning pool loungers come in. Videos showcasing these summery inflatables have been garnering millions of views on social media, and it's not hard to see why. These shallow inflatable pools are designed to let you relax in a thin layer of water while enjoying the sunshine, making them one of summer's most popular outdoor accessories.

@sam.shan.shops

best find of the summer ☀️ I love that this outdoor tanning pool has a built in cooler and pocket for all your tanning needs 👙🌴💦 #tanningpool #outdoortanningbed #amazonsummerfinds #tanningtime #summeressentials tips to get the best tan

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One highly rated option is the Voice Tank Inflatable Tanning Pool Lounger. Right now, it's on sale for 43% off at Amazon, bringing the price down from $50 to just $28. At that price, it's an affordable way to make hot summer days much more comfortable. With over 700 five-star reviews and over 10,000 sold in the past month, this is clearly a fan-favorite.

Voice Tank Inflatable Tanning Pool Lounger, From $28 (was $50) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The lounger comes in multiple sizes, but the extra large version offers the biggest discount. Measuring 77 inches long by 47.5 inches wide, it's spacious enough for up to two people. It also includes a built-in cup holder, so your favorite drink is always within easy reach.

You can choose between pink and blue color options to suit your style. Despite its generous size, the lounger weighs only about 5 pounds, making it easy to move around the yard or pack for trips. It's constructed from durable 0.3-millimeter-thick material and is designed to support up to 350 pounds while resisting UV-related fading.

One of the biggest advantages of a tanning pool lounger is the ability to stay cool while sunbathing. Instead of overheating on a hot surface, you simply fill the base with a few inches of water and relax. The water helps keep your body refreshed while still allowing you to enjoy the sun, making long afternoons outdoors much more comfortable.

A standout feature is the built-in sprinkler system. Simply connect a garden hose and enjoy a light spray of water overhead. You can adjust the height and strength of the spray to your liking, creating an extra layer of cooling relief on especially hot days. 

Comfort was clearly a priority in the design. It features a detachable headrest and a ribbed inflatable base that provides support similar to an air mattress. Whether you're reading, listening to music, or simply relaxing, it's designed to stay comfortable for hours at a time.

It's also incredibly practical for smaller outdoor spaces. Unlike a permanent pool, this lounger inflates in minutes and takes up very little room. When the season ends, it deflates down for easy storage in a closet, garage, or car trunk.

One reviewer described it as a “great way to beat the heat,” writing, “This lounger inflated quickly using my air pump and is very sturdy. It includes an inflatable pillow and a cupholder, so it is nice to lay back with a drink and book while my legs are cooled by the sprinklers.” Another shared, “No pool, no problem! This thing is awesome — it keeps you cool, is super comfy, and seems well made!”

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• Sloosh Inflatable Tanning Pool Lounger, $28 (was $40) at Amazon
• PanAdventure Inflatable Tanning Pool Lounger, $30 (was $46) at Amazon
• Famstar Oversized Beach Blanket, From $15 (was $22) at Amazon

Related: Target's Highly Rated Backyard Essential Is Sturdy, Versatile and More Useful Than You Think

For a smart and versatile way to stay cool while enjoying the sunshine, the Voice Tank Inflatable Tanning Pool Lounger is a standout option. With Amazon's current 43% discount, you can save over $20 and get plenty of use out of it before summer is over.

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If you grew up anywhere near Southern California's Inland Empire, odds are high that some of your absolute favorite childhood memories are permanently tied to a vibrant little stretch of asphalt right off the 215 Freeway.

Whether it was the thrill of spinning around the go-kart track, celebrating a milestone birthday party or surviving your very first roller coaster drop, local family fun centers have a way of cementing themselves directly into the heart of a community.

That's why a massive piece of bittersweet news out of Colton, California, is causing a major wave of neighborhood nostalgia this week. After more than half a century of continuous operation, Fiesta Village Family Fun Park has officially announced that it is closing its gates for good.

Related: This Lakeside New England Hidden Gem Was Just Named the Most Affordable Theme Park in America

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For those who want to experience the retro magic one last time, buy a final round of batting cage tokens, or squeeze in one last game of miniature golf with friends, the clock is ticking incredibly fast. The park's final days of public operation are locked in for Friday, July 10 and Saturday, July 11, 2026.

The announcement marks the incredibly emotional end of an era for a homegrown destination that first opened its doors back in 1974. Operated by Michelle and Patrick O’Brien since 2002, the couple worked tirelessly over the last 24 years to expand the park's offerings—preserving classic staples like the waterslides (which were actually the very first waterslides in the state of California!) while adding modern amenities like laser tag, carnival rides and a roller skating rink.

Unfortunately, the post-pandemic economic squeeze and a rising cost of living have made running an independent, regional family park a massive uphill battle. Co-owner Michelle O’Brien candidly detailed the financial realities to SFGATE, explaining, “The economics of the amusement park industry and what we’re doing have changed dramatically. We’ve just reached a point where continuing simply wasn't sustainable.”

The shift in consumer habits has been stark. The owners shared that group revenue streams like school field trips, company picnics and traditional Saturday birthday parties have plummeted over recent seasons. "We used to do 22 [birthday parties] on a Saturday, and now we do nine," Patrick O'Brien told SFGATE. Before making the tough choice to halt operations, the family even aggressively searched for an outside investor to keep the property alive, but Patrick noted, "There was just no interest."

Related: The No. 1 Ranked Tourist Attraction in the U.S. Is Not the Statue of Liberty or the Grand Canyon

Before breaking the heavy news to the public in a July 3 social media post, the O’Briens gathered their tightly knit crew of 25 employees for a farewell lunch to celebrate their history. In a beautiful, final tribute to the park's legacy, the staff wrote down their favorite personal memories, collected classic park memorabilia, and sealed them into a secret time capsule buried somewhere on the property.

“Your dedication, loyalty and shared experiences transformed Fiesta Village into something far greater than a park—it became a part of the community’s story,” the O’Brien family shared in their official statement.

If there is one tiny silver lining for local foodies, Nickelodeon Pizza, the independently operated restaurant located right on the property, has confirmed it will remain open for business with its normal operating hours.

As the gates prepare to swing shut this Saturday night, the owners are doing everything they can to let the park's spirit live on—even answering inquiries from nostalgic locals who want to purchase old park signs or structural memorabilia for their own backyards. If you are anywhere near the San Bernardino area this weekend, consider stopping by to log one final lap around the track and say a proper goodbye to a real piece of SoCal history.

Related: Inside the Legendary Disney Studio No Theme Park Ticket Will Get You Into

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If you're looking for a wardrobe staple that's both stylish and affordable, Walmart's Free Assembly Cap Sleeve Tee, designed by none other than Project Runway's Brandon Maxwell, is a must-have. Priced at just $4 and available in an impressive 10 colors, this is the type of tee that makes a great addition to any summer closet.

Walmart made a splash in 2021 when Brandon Maxwell (the celebrity designer behind Lady Gaga's iconic Met Gala looks) signed on to be the creative director for Walmart's private fashion labels, which include Free Assembly. His designer touches coupled with affordable price points have shoppers coming back again and again for pieces under his tutelage. 

Free Assembly Cap Sleeve Tee, From $4 (was $10) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Shoppers have fallen in love with these “cute” classic tees, awarding them over 1,300 five-star reviews."These t-shirts are among my favorites," one shopper wrote. "Last year, I bought a few and fell in love with them. "

"I love the texture," another shopper stated. "I am going to reorder immediately."Others praised the "quality and construction" of this tee, calling it a staple that's "perfect for all occasions."

Free Assembly Cap Sleeve Tee, From $4 (was $10) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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This Free Assembly Cap Sleeve Tee's versatility is unmatched. Whether you're pairing it with jean shorts for a casual day at the pool, tucking it into a skirt for work, or layering it under a blazer for a more polished look, this tee can do it all. The color selection includes blue, pink, green, classic black, white, and other hues, though certain hue and size combinations are selling fast.

The fit is great, although some shoppers suggested sizing up for a more relaxed fit. The cap sleeves add a subtle stylish touch, while the soft, stretchy blend of 87% cotton and 13% spandex ensures all-day comfort.

The tee is machine washable, making it easy to care for, and comes in sizes extra-small through 3XL, so there's an option for every body. With no fussy pockets or embellishments, the design remains classic, simple, and endlessly wearable.

With tons of colors to choose from (think hot pink, classic white, and even vivid stripes), shoppers said it’s smart to pick up a few before they’re gone. This tee is such a great find you’ll want to grab more than one. 

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• Free Assembly Women's Mary Jane Espadrilles, $20 (were $44) at Walmart
• Free Assembly Cotton Cropped Boxy Tee , $5 (was $10) at Walmart
• Free Assembly Women's Allegra Faux Leather Cut Out Tote, $24 (was $30) at Walmart

Related: Walmart Has a 'Dainty' $15 Birthstone Bracelet That Adds a Personalized Touch to Any Look

For a top that works as hard as you do, the Brandon Maxwell-approved $4 cap sleeve tee is the ultimate steal for summer and beyond. The top is selling fast, so don't wait too long if you'd like to add it to your wardrobe.

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