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As a woman, I always feel a little torn "celebrating" woman-specific accolades and honors. I'm not always convinced that we need to put the "woman" qualifier in front of the honor, but at the same time, I also feel it is important to make space for more marginalized groups. Whatever way you slice it, doling out any of those honors doesn't negate the accomplishment itself. And when it comes to author Harper Lee, who penned the true literary classic To Kill a Mockingbird, she deserves all the flowers given to her.

On Goodreads, Lee's classic tale earned the title of the "Best Woman-Authored Book" ever, and for what it has done not just for literature but for culture as a whole, it couldn't be more deserving.

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Lee's 1960 novel—which told the story of a lawyer father defending a Black man falsely accused of raping a white woman through the eyes of his children, Scout and Jem—touched on so many different polarizing themes. Race, women's rights, deep Southern culture, and morality all swirled heavily throughout the text in a way that felt manageable to tackle through Lee's wit and humor. Just one year later, the novel earned a Pulitzer Prize and was eventually made into an Academy Award-winning film starring Hollywood great Gregory Peck.

Related: Pulitzer Prize Winner Who Surprisingly Only Published Two Novels Would Have Turned 100 Today

The History Behind 'To Kill a Mockingbird'

Lee's own life growing up in rural Alabama was the inspiration for her tale. A similar situation unfolded in a nearby town in 1936, and her story was fashioned from the way the adults in her hometown reacted to the news. While the setting may feel like a whole different world, the truth is, in today's society, we are still grappling with the racism and discrimination Tom Robinson faced. Perhaps that's why it continues to inspire readers over 66 years later.

"I cannot say enough good things about this book," wrote one reviewer in part of their praise for the timeless classic. "It is beautiful, it is devastating, and it is essential."

That isn't to say the novel is without criticism. Some feel it heavily plays up the "white savior" complex and reads like a "not all white people" placating text.

"This book was written by a white woman, from a white perspective, about white characters, for a white audience," emphasized one reader on the platform. "This book is a pat on the back for the white middle class. This book gives comfort to the white middle class. Comfort that they, especially back in the 1960s, didn't need, and—allow me to be so bold—didn't deserve."

Ultimately, though, her work is revered as some of the most prolific of our time. Lee published only one other novel, 2015's Go Set a Watchman, which served as a controversial sequel/rough draft to her iconic book and did not receive nearly as many accolades. However, her love of writing was palpable, and the fact that we are still passionately discussing her work six decades later is a testament to her lasting legacy as an author.

When the Grateful Dead were first celebrated with the Forever Grateful exhibition this summer, organizers promised a much larger companion experience would arrive later in the year. Now fans know exactly what that second chapter will include, and it's shaping up to be one of the biggest Grateful Dead tributes ever assembled.

San Francisco officials announced Thursday, July 9 that Forever Grateful, Golden Gate Park will open Sept. 5 inside the County Fair Building (Hall of Flowers), transforming the historic venue into an immersive celebration of the band's music, artwork and enduring cultural legacy.

The opening weekend will culminate Sept. 7 with a free concert by Grahame Lesh & Friends, led by the son of Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh, in Robin Williams Meadow from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

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Unlike the original exhibition, which focuses on more than 400 pieces of artwork, instruments, posters and memorabilia chronicling the band's history from 1965 through 1995, the new experience will feature immersive multimedia installations, live performers, large-scale projections and interactive storytelling designed to place visitors inside the Grateful Dead's world.

Among the centerpiece attractions will be Ken Kesey and the Merry Pranksters' legendary "Furthur" bus, one of the defining symbols of 1960s counterculture, along with Jerry Garcia's BMW, original artwork and rare memorabilia connected to the band's history.

'The Magic Bus,' also known as 'Further' as it was called by Ken Kesey, American novelist and counterculture figure. The bus was used to carry Kesey and his Merry Band of Pranksters.

Joe McNally/Getty Images

"The Grateful Dead's story is inseparable from Golden Gate Park and San Francisco," San Francisco Recreation and Park Department General Manager Sarah Madland said in a statement. "Bringing this immersive experience to the County Fair Building invites visitors to step inside that history while creating new memories in one of the world's great urban parks."

The announcement builds on an already busy year for Grateful Dead fans. Earlier this year, the band also launched Play Dead, an official streaming platform giving listeners access to decades of restored live recordings from its legendary vault, with new archival releases continuing through "Dead Drop Tuesdays."

Together, the streaming archive and the two Forever Grateful exhibitions offer fans new ways to experience the music, artwork and community that have kept the Grateful Dead's legacy thriving more than six decades after the band first formed.

Kelly Harris, executive director of the Haight Street Art Center, called the new exhibition "a homecoming for this story."

"Anchored by Ken Kesey and the Merry Pranksters' iconic 'Furthur' bus and Jerry Garcia's BMW, the exhibition brings visitors to where so much of the Grateful Dead's history actually happened," Harris said.

What to Know About 'Forever Grateful, Golden Gate Park'

• Opens Sept. 5, 2026
• Runs through Oct. 25
• Location: County Fair Building (Hall of Flowers), Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
• Opening weekend includes a free Grahame Lesh & Friends concert on Sept. 7
• Features the legendary Furthur bus, Jerry Garcia's BMW, immersive installations, performers and rare Grateful Dead artifacts

Related: Last Surviving Original Member of Legendary '70s Rock Band Turns 82

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Finding one backpack that can handle your morning commute, a weekend getaway and everything else on your schedule isn't always easy. Some bags are great for the office, but too bulky for everyday use, while others leave you digging around for your keys, laptop or water bottle when you're in a hurry.

If you've been looking for a bag that keeps up with busy days without sacrificing organization, Yeti has a new option that aims to do just that.

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The brand just launched the Palo Backpack, a lightweight everyday carry bag designed to transition from work and workouts to travel. It joins Yeti's growing lineup of gear with a focus on durability, smart organization and all-day comfort.

Palo Everyday Backpack, $175 at Yeti Grasshopper green backpack

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The bag features Yeti's RipZip opening, which lets you pull the main compartment open wide for a clear view of everything inside. Instead of digging through a deep backpack to find your headphones, charger or notebook, you can quickly spot exactly what you're looking for in one quick glance.

The backpack also includes thoughtful storage throughout. A dedicated rear compartment keeps laptops protected and interior mesh pockets help organize smaller essentials.

Built with lightweight weather- and abrasion-resistant nylon, the Palo backpack is designed to handle everyday wear without feeling too heavy. It also features Yeti's water-resistant GroundControl Base, which helps the backpack stand upright on the floor instead of tipping over every time you set it down.

Related: Amazon's $24 6-Pack of 'Durable' Zippered Storage Bags Is 'Useful for Dorm Moving Days'

Comfort is clearly part of the design too. Padded shoulder straps and a compression-molded back panel help make the bag comfortable to carry throughout the day, whether you're heading to work, walking through the airport or spending the afternoon exploring a new city.

Travelers will appreciate that the bags are carry-on friendly for most airlines. The larger backpacks also offer extra room for longer trips.

The Palo Active Backpack comes in three sizes: 20 liter, 26 liter and 32 liter. It's available in Black, Royal Blue and a seasonal Grasshopper green colorway, and the price starts at $175.

Whether you're commuting to the office, packing for a weekend trip or heading straight from work to the gym, Yeti's newest backpack is designed to make carrying your daily essentials a little easier while keeping everything organized and within easy reach.

Related: Patagonia’s 'Small but Mighty' Crossbody Bag Is $29 at REI Right Now

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If you’re searching for summer sandals that can keep up with long walks, busy days, and warm weather adventures, this Nordstrom Rack deal is worth a look. The retailer is offering a popular Skechers style at a major discount, giving shoppers the chance to score a comfortable, supportive pair without spending a lot.

Right now, the Skechers Arch Fit Grandola Sandals are marked down to as little as $19 during Nordstrom Rack’s Clear the Rack event. The sale ends today, so shoppers have limited time to grab this fan-favorite style at its lowest price. Available in classic brown and black, prices vary slightly by color, but the most you’ll pay is just $21 — making these sandals an affordable addition to your summer wardrobe. 

Skechers Arch Fit Grandola Sandals, From $19 (was $80) at Nordstrom Rack

Courtesy of Nordstrom Rack

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The Skechers Arch Fit Grandola Sandals feature a lightweight strappy design and a contoured Arch Fit insole that cushions every step. The insole also acts as a shock-absorber and spreads pressure evenly, so your feet don't get sore even after hours of wear. 

The shoes come in sizes six through ten. Reviewers said that the sandals’ supportive feel are what sets them apart. One reviewer called them “very comfortable sandals,” noting that “the arch support is great.”

The sandals have an adjustable buckle strap that allows you to customize the fit. The slight 1.5-inch heel adds a little lift while keeping the design comfortable for everyday wear. Shoppers also appreciated the value and “good all-around design” that makes them easy to wear all summer long. 

The versatile style makes these sandals easy to pair with nearly any warm weather outfit, from casual shorts and tees to breezy dresses and linen pants. Just keep in mind that Nordstrom Rack’s Clear the Rack purchases are final sale, so returns and exchanges are not available.

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Related: Skechers' Pain-Free $42 Flip-Flops Feel Like 'Pillows,' and They’re Great for Summer Walks and Errands

For shoppers looking for a comfortable, supportive sandal this summer, the Skechers Arch Fit Grandola Sandals are a standout find. At as little as $19, it’s a deal worth grabbing before the sale is over!

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Memorabilia that some may describe as "finger-lickin' good" is going up for sale later this month.

The late, great Harland Sanders — otherwise known as Colonel Sanders — founded KFC nearly 100 years ago, and his wife helped build the iconic business up. Now, Claudia Sanders Dinner House in Kentucky is holding a public auction on July 28 that will feature "one of the most comprehensive collections" of the Colonel's personal memorabilia.

"For the first time in more than fifty years, the personal collection preserved by the Settle family, together with the historic Claudia Sanders Dinner House and Blackwood Hall, will be offered to the public," according to the auction's website.

That means that the first-ever headquarters for KFC will soon be up for sale, with the historic property going to the highest bidder. Any interest?

"These are not items assembled by a collector," said Bill Menish, auctioneer for the sale, in a statement shared with media. "They are artifacts preserved by the family who were hand selected to purchase the Colonel's home and business directly from Colonel and Claudia Sanders more than fifty years ago. Together they tell a story few people have ever had the opportunity to see."

(Claudia Sanders Dinner House)

The collection documents Sanders' personal life, business career and public legacy, offering insight into both the man and the cultural phenomenon he became, according to a recent press release. The collection is expected to attract interest from museums, private collectors, franchise operators, food historians and Americana enthusiasts across the U.S. and internationally.

Auction organizers boast that one of the collection's most significant artifacts is Sanders' personal working planner, which gained additional historical significance when one of its pages later attracted significant international media attention and became the subject of litigation (since resolved).

Additional highlights from the collection include:

• Handwritten recipes and cooking notes
• Personal clothing and accessories
• Letters and correspondence from U.S. Presidents
• Colonel Sanders' engraved pressure cooker
• Personal kitchen and cooking artifacts

“If you're new in town/ then you'll wanna look around / but you don't know where to begin / Well, there's bubble gum alley / and the local car rally / Not to mention the toilets at the Madonna Inn.” So goes a lesser-known 1978 country song by Alfred Yankovic, who would go on to build a career as parody rocker Weird Al. His first commercial release is an ode to San Luis Obispo, and Yankovic celebrates many of the town’s best attractions including Hearst Castle, Pismo Beach and Morro Rock.

Yankovic released “Take Me Down” a year before he recorded his first hit song “My Bologna," while the singer-songwriter was attending California Polytechnic and working as a college DJ. In the late 1970's San Luis Obispo was a quiet tourist destination on the central coast, halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco. By the time Yankovic matriculated, the Madonna Inn had been welcoming travelers for 20 years, and was well established as an unmistakable landmark on the storied Highway 101. 

Named for its owner and creator, the late Alex Madonna, the eponymous Inn has been beloved by travelers for almost seven decades. The maximalist destination is part fairytale—with a midcentury Alpine style that makes frequent use of massive natural stone and leaded glass—and part fantasia of bold rose carpeting, gilt bar stools, fuchsia banquets, and kitschy vintage wallpaper.

The Yahoo Room at the Madonna Inn features a bed made out of a vintage wagon.

Tom Meinhold / Getty Images

Much of the decor is unabashedly feminine, with pink tennis courts and pool umbrellas that would make Barbie blush. But many of the rooms, like the Caveman, lean into a bold, natural look with animal prints and rock-lined walls and ceiling. Others, like the Irish Springs room, are decked out in plush emerald hues that feel straight out of The Wizard of Oz's technicolor dreamscape.

Some of the distinctive designs, as well as the inn’s famously bold carpeting, came from the imagination of Alice Turney Williams, a San Bernardino native and one of the first women to draw for Walt Disney. She contributed key character designs and background art to Bambi, Lady and the Tramp, and other features. In the 1980s, Phyllis Madonna redesigned the Inn’s whimsical goblets, which come in a range of iridescent iMac hues, to better pair with Williams’ 1970s carpet design.

Related: The Charming Midwest Town That Inspired Walt Disney’s Main Street, U.S.A.

Other features at the Inn are drawn directly from prominent local landmarks, namely the marble balustrade in the Inn’s dining room, originally part of Hearst Castle, a sprawling Gilded Age retreat in San Simeon built in 1919 by newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst with architect Julia Morgan.

The Caveman Room at the Madonna Inn evokes media from Tarzan to Hanna-Barbera

Getty Images / Getty Images

Built by the son of a local rancher whose ventures included road construction, shopping center development, and even a business partnership with John Wayne, the Madonna Inn was meant to be a romantic destination for left-coast lovebirds. It’s exactly that, an ode to his own romance with Phyllis, which started in a diner and eventually took them down the aisle in Las Vegas.

But the Inn also became a popular roadside attraction thanks to the women and men’s restrooms that Yankovich references in his song. The former features holographic wallpaper that shimmers in the soft lighting of candle-shaped bulbs in floral chandeliers that would make Louis the XIV envious. The latter has a motion-activated waterfall you can wiz into, thanks to a creative take on a urinal made from natural boulders. 

Celebrities including Paul Newman, Dustin Hoffman, Sam Elliot, Clint Eastwood, Davey Jones, and Debbie Harry have all dined at Alex Madonna’s Gold Rush Steak House or booked rooms with names like the “Daisy Mae,” the “Jungle Room,” and “Bridal Falls.” John Wayne was a regular through the 1960s and '70s, thanks to his long-standing friendship with the Madonnas. And actor Benedict Cumberbatch has apparently joined in salsa and line dancing at the Madonna Inn on more than one occasion over the years.

The Madonna Inn in the 1970s, when Weird Al Yankovic was attending Cal Poly

HUM Images / Getty Images

Weird Al Yankovic isn’t the only musician with history at San Luis Obispo’s pinkest attraction, either. Graham Nash of Crosby, Stills, and Nash threw his 60th birthday party here, featuring David Crosby in a pink bunny suit. Folk singer Kacey Musgraves paid tribute to the Madonna Inn’s famous pink champagne cake in her 2024 song “Dinner With Friends.” And country icon Dolly Parton frequented the Madonna Inn during the decade she quietly owned a similarly kitschy property in nearby Solvang, California, which features a miniature windmill with light-up stained glass windows. 

Related:10 Years Before Route 66, This Highway Crossed the U.S

Even more anonymous fans can't get enough of the Inn's signature aesthetic. Pranksters have gone so far as to swipe the Madonna Inn’s distinctive custom welcome mat, emblazoned with a large pink letter M, no fewer than five times, and returned the mat by mail just once. What started as the quirky dream of a local couple has turned into a cult-classic hotel. Much like Al Yankovich himself, the Madonna Inn proves that sometimes a little weird can go a long way.

Related: You Have to See Dolly Parton's Dazzling New Truck Stop

The most famous crowd anthem in rock history wasn't even written for a crowd.

It was mandated by one.

Not with words. Not with a request. Just with the sound of tens of thousands of strangers singing together without being asked. Freddie Mercury was there to experience it; he heard it, and he knew exactly what that meant.

It was May 1977. Queen was playing Bingley Hall in Stafford, England. Between songs, with no cue, no announcement, and no prompting, the crowd just started singing "You'll Never Walk Alone." It's the song Liverpool FC fans have been singing at soccer matches for decades.

Mercury stood there and watched as tens of thousands of people joined together around something that had nothing at all to do with him or his band. He felt exactly what that kind of power that singing could do to a room.

@rockmusic.live

#Queen #FredieMercury #wearethechampion (1977)

♬ We Are The Champions - Remastered 2011 - Queen

He went home and wrote, "We Are the Champions."

"I wanted a participation song, something the fans could latch on to," Mercury said later. "It was aimed at the masses. I thought we'd see how they took it. It worked like a treat."

One decision changed everything. Mercury could have written "I am the champion," something that belonged to him alone. He considered it. "I suppose it could also be construed as my version of 'I Did It My Way,'" he said. But "My Way" belongs to Sinatra. Mercury wrote "We." Just one small word, but it changed everything about how the song was perceived. He said later that the "We" refers to everyone singing it, not just the band performing it. The victory was never theirs to keep. It was always meant to be passed to the crowd the moment they opened their mouths.

For a split second, the line between the stage and the front row disappeared completely.

Brian May knew what Mercury was going for. "We wanted to get the crowds waving and singing," he said. " 'We Are the Champions’ is very unifying and positive. People love it because it's so uplifting."

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

The song got its first live outing at a special fan club concert at the New London Theatre in London on October 6, 1977. The video was filmed that same night. Everything Mercury had designed it to do, it did immediately. May described what it felt like to hear an audience sing it back to the band for the very first time.

"When we did that special concert when the song was first performed, the fans were wonderful," he said. "They understood it so well. I know it sounds corny, but it brought tears to my eyes."

It worked the first night, and it’s worked every night since.

In 1992, a high school principal in New Jersey tried to ban the song from graduation because of its association with Freddie Mercury, who had died of AIDS just one year previously. The students weren't having it. They flooded a New York radio station with repeated requests until it relented and started playing the song in solidarity. The principal backed down, and the music won. It always does.

The Song That Still Works 49 Years Later

The song has been the go-to anthem for soccer wins since the 1994 FIFA World Cup. Right now, in July 2026, the FIFA World Cup is happening across the US, Canada, and Mexico, and "We Are the Champions" is playing in stadiums every time a team wins. Forty-nine years after Mercury wrote it, it's still doing exactly what he designed it to do—bringing people together.

Queen put out Episode 11 of their official YouTube series "Queen: The Greatest Live," which included rare footage of the song's first-ever US live performance from the 1977 end-of-year tour.

The song keeps finding new moments. In 2020, during the pandemic, Brian May, Roger Taylor and Adam Lambert swapped "We" for "You" and recorded "You Are the Champions" as a thank-you to our frontline workers, with all proceeds going to the WHO.

Every night, we ended the show with "We Are the Champions." May has explained why it's always the last song.

Every night it still works.

In May 1977, a crowd in Stafford sang together without being asked and accidentally gave Freddie Mercury one of the greatest ideas of his career. Forty-nine years later, crowds across North America are still doing the same thing at the World Cup. 

Mercury heard what people needed and immediately gave it back to them.

They've been singing it ever since.

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Prime Video's steamy fake dating rom-com show Off Campus was a smash hit when it dropped on the streaming platform on May 13, and obsession with the series hasn't died down. If anything, particularly following the confirmation that Off Campus season 2 is officially in the works, interest in the show has only grown.

That makes the brand-new merch drop from Funko so much better. Just launched today, and available for pre-order now, the new Off Campus Funko Pops! are must-have collectibles for fans of the show.

The available Pops! include fan-favorite characters Allie Hayes, Dean Di Laurentis, Garrett Graham and Hannah Wells. The figures of Allie, Dean and Hannah come in right at 4 inches tall, and the Garrett Funk Pop! is (rightly) a bit taller at 4.2 inches.

The Pop! figures also come with unique costumes, with Allie donning a stunning green dress perfect for any party scene and Dean sporting a stylish aviator outfit. Garrett is wearing his iconic hockey uniform from the show, and Hannah's Pop! figure shows off an adorable polo shirt and a colorful boa.

Each Pop! comes in right at $14.99, and the estimated shipping date is December 15. The Off Campus Funko Pops! aren't the only ones romance lovers should keep an eye on, though. In fact, on the same Funko website page, beloved characters Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov from yet another spicy hockey romance show, Heated Rivalry, are also available.

Like their Off Campus counterparts, the Shane and Ilya Funko Pops! are each $14.99 and have an estimated shipping date of December 15. However, as should certainly be the case for this adorable couple, Ilya and Shane can also be purchased as a two-pack, coming in at $29.99. These Pops!, like Garrett, are wearing their hockey uniforms, and they are likewise available for pre-order now.

Daytime Emmy winner Jade Harlow is returning to the world of daytime television as the former Passions star makes her debut on ‘The Young and the Restless’ later this year.

Harlow will portray the recurring role of Marie Kirkland on the CBS soap opera and is described as someone with a complicated past looking to make a fresh start in Genoa City.

The actress will make her debut on the number 1-rated soap on Monday, August 10, 2026.

Harlow previously portrayed Jessica Bennett on the NBC supernatural soap opera Passions from 2000 to 2003.

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She also starred as Lianna Ramos on The Bay: The Series, for which she took home Daytime Emmy wins in 2018 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Digital Daytime Drama Series and in 2020 for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Digital Drama Series.

Speaking to Daytime Confidential about the impact Passions had on the television landscape, Harlow shared, “ I think Passions was groundbreaking in a lot of ways! It was a fearless show with no safety net.”

The supernatural soap opera was a hit with viewers in the 12-17 age group, often ranking number 1 in that demographic. However, the series never found real success in the larger ratings.

Harlow shared that the series tapped into that demographic because “It had been overlooked at that time, especially for the time slot it was in.”

The actress compared it to the former supernatural soap, Dark Shadows, sharing, “If you look back at Dark Shadows, for example. It wasn’t primarily a hit with housewives; it was a hit for those same ages racing home from school to be there at 4 o’clock, to see what happens next with the Collins! I think that is why that particular show appealed to so many people for so many years. It grew with their audience, spanned a variety of ages.”

Since leaving Passions, she has made appearances on Days of Our Lives, the Netflix series Cowboy Bebop, and, most recently, Second Chances.

The Young and the Restless airs weekdays on CBS and streams weeknights on Paramount+.

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Hot summer days call for tops that feel light, breathable, and easy to wear, and if your wardrobe could use some new pieces that won’t break the bank, you’re in luck. The Zunfeo Cotton-Linen Babydoll Blouse is on sale at Walmart for just $10 right now, down from $15. It comes in nine colors, including beige, black, navy, and more, with sizes ranging from small to 5XL.

The blouse is made with a soft cotton-linen blend that’s breezy and gentle on the skin. It features a V-neckline, button-front detail, and empire waist, giving it more shape than a standard summer shirt. It’s also machine washable, which is a must once the weather gets hot and your favorite pieces start getting worn more often.

Zunfeo Cotton-Linen Babydoll Blouse, $10 (was $15) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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At just $10, this blouse is an easy way to try the linen-blend look without spending much on a single top. The fabric has a slightly textured finish, and the seam under the bust adds some structure to the flowy cut. The extra arm coverage also makes it more practical for days when you want a breezy top that still covers more than a tank.

It’s surprisingly less seasonal than some other summer tops, too. The cotton-linen blend helps keep it light enough for warm weather, while the sleeves make it easier to wear into the hottest weeks of the year. It’s a piece you could keep reaching for into early fall, or even later if layered, instead of storing it away as soon as August ends.

Related: Amazon's 'Flowy' $20 Cotton-Linen Pants Are 'Summer Perfection,' and They Come in 7 Colors

The neutral shades are the easiest to style if you want the most wear out of one color. The beige, black, and navy options would all work well with shorts, jeans, or a flowy skirt, while the red or yellow styles would add a brighter touch to simple summer outfits. Its curved hem also lets you wear it untucked while still having enough coverage in the front and back.

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This Walmart find checks a lot of boxes for a budget-friendly summer top. It’s breathable, flowy, machine washable, and easy to wear with pieces you likely already own. Be sure to add the Zunfeo Cotton-Linen Babydoll Blouse to your cart while it’s still marked down to just $10 in every color. 

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In September 1978, Nicolette Larson released her self-titled debut solo album. Five months later, she had one of the hottest singles in the country with “Lotta Love.”

The song peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, making the former backup singer a bona fide pop star.

The song itself was written by music legend Neil Young, who graciously gifted it to Larson after he hired her to sing backup on one of his most iconic albums.

"I got that song off a tape I found lying on the floor of Neil's car," Larson once said of “Lotta Love” in an interview. "I popped it in the tape player and commented on what a great song it was. Neil said, 'You want it? It's yours.'"

Nicolette Larson met Neil Young through mutual friend Linda Ronstadt

Larson first met Young after mutual pal Linda Ronstadt introduced them during sessions for Young’s iconic American Stars ‘n Bars album in 1977. Larson was brought in after Young’s original choice, Emmylou Harris, was unavailable.

“Neil kind of functions on cosmic operations,you know, and that was cosmic enough for him,” Larson shared in an interview published by Ear of Newt. “If everyone had recommended me, then I was supposed to work with him. So Linda and I went up to his ranch and sang backups on that album, and then when he did Comes a Time, he called me again to come and sing on it.”

RELATED: 1977 No. 1 Soft Rock Hit Became a Career-Defining Classic

Larson admitted that she didn’t know a lot about Young’s music when she first met him.  

“I didn’t know much about Neil Young,” she told Rolling Stone in December 1978. “But we went over and sat by the fireplace, and Neil ran down all the songs he had just written, about twenty of them. We sang harmonies with him, and he was jazzed.”

She also revealed that unbeknownst to her, the practice sessions were recorded.

“We [Neil and Crazy Horse] worked out the songs in a room of his house,” she added. “And just when we had the songs down, Neil said, ‘Thanks a lot… we’ve got the album.’ He was recording all the rehearsals secretly in another room.”

Larson also sang backup on Young’s follow-up to American Stars ‘n Bars, 1978’s Comes a Time. That led to a contract with Warner Bros. and her hit debut solo album.

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Neil Young released his own version of ‘Lotta Love’

While Young gave her “Lotta Love,” Larson noted that the rock legend released his own version of the song for his Comes a Time album, but she did not perform on that track.

“He recorded it first, and I heard it and said, ‘Gee that’s great. How come you don’t put that song out?’” she recalled per Ear of Newt. “It was kind of like, ‘Don’t ask me why I don’t put this out. You want to put it out, you put it out.’ So I recorded it, and got it all ready to put out, then at the very last minute he changed his mind on Comes a Time and put it on that. So we both released it the very same day, actually.”

Larson noted that her version was quite different from Young’s.

Follwing hwer pop success, Larson went on to focus on country music in the mid-1980s. She died in 1997 at age 45.

Related: 1977 Live Rock Classic, Lasting Over 8 Minutes, Was Reimagined From Blues Legend's 1954 Hit

Joanna Pettet, a beloved actress who appeared in hit films including Sidney Lumet’s The Group and in Casino Royale, has died at the age of 83.

Her friend and former manager Pam DuBois told The Hollywood Reporter that Pettet died on Tuesday, July 7, at Temecula Valley Hospital in California.

She began his career on Broadway, but quickly switched to television, where she was on Night Gallery in the early 1970s as well as Knots Landing in 1983. However, The Group remains one of her most notable roles, where she portrayed Kay Strong, one of the eight Vassar graduates who marries an alcoholic, abusive, and philandering playwright. The movie also starred Candice Bergen, Joan Hackett, Elizabeth Hartman, Shirley Knight, Jessica Walter, Kathleen Widdoes, and Mary-Robin Redd as her classmates.

In 1967's Casino Royale, she played Mata Bond, who is the daughter of James Bond and a spy.

Pettet is also one of the last people to see actress Sharon Tate alive, as she and actress Barbara Lewis had lunch at her home hours before she was murdered by followers of Charles Manson. That was recreated in Quentin Tarantino’s 2019 film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, with Rumer Willis playing the role of Pettet.

Pettet's death also comes on the 31st anniversary of her son Damien Cord’s death after he passed away at the age of 26 in 1995 of a heroin overdose.

Fans paid tribute to the actress following news of her passing.

"A career that spanned decades and left its mark across film and television. Rest in peace to a true Hollywood veteran," one person wrote.

"RIP the great Joanna Pettet" another person commented.

"Joanna Pettet (1942-2026): The lovely actress has died at the age of 83. I fondly remember her from so many of those shows I loved in the 1960s and 1970s," a fan expressed.

After more than 50 years on the road, Lou Gramm says the time has finally come to step away.

The original Foreigner frontman has announced that he plans to retire from touring following the conclusion of his 2026 North American tour. The run supports his recently released solo album, Released, and will serve as a farewell to fans after a career that helped define arena rock.

Gramm admitted the decision has been years in the making.

"I'm very fortunate that at my age I can still sing and hit the notes and everything, but I don't wanna get to the point where I'm faking it or lowering the key two steps to do the song. I think this is, for me, a high point, this tour," Gramm told TalkShopLive. "And finally getting into the Rock Hall Of Fame and all the good things, I wanna go out with a bang, and I think that this summer tour is it."

Although he has announced retirement plans before, Gramm said this time is different.

"I've been doing this over 54 years, [including] Black Sheep," he explained. "I just feel like there's some other things that I want to do. I want to spend more time with my children — my older children and my younger child — and spend more time playing with my cars while I'm still capable of driving."

The singer added that he's looking forward to enjoying life away from constant travel.

"[I'd like to] just stay off the road and enjoy my home, the surroundings and my family and friends, something that I've had to sacrifice for over 50 years."

Gramm first rose to fame after co-founding Foreigner with guitarist Mick Jones in 1976. As the band's unmistakable voice, he helped create a string of rock staples including "Feels Like the First Time," "Cold as Ice," "Hot Blooded," "Double Vision," "Urgent," "Juke Box Hero" and the chart-topping ballad "I Want to Know What Love Is." Alongside Jones, Gramm also co-wrote many of the band's biggest hits, making him one of the defining vocalists of the late 1970s and 1980s.

His farewell tour comes during a busy period that has also seen the release of Released, a collection of songs originally written during the 1980s and recently completed for official release. Gramm has continued performing solo shows while also making guest appearances with Foreigner during the band's ongoing 50th anniversary celebrations.

"They're fun to hang out with," Gramm told Ultimate Classic Rock about the current Foreigner lineup. "Their musical expertise is very apparent when you hear them play and they're a pretty loose bunch of guys. We have fun on stage and offstage. There's a lot of camaraderie there that is a different brand from the original Foreigner, but nonetheless, it's very appreciated."

While Gramm says he still enjoys performing, he believes ending his touring career on his own terms is the right decision. If all goes according to plan, the 2026 North American tour will mark the final chapter for one of classic rock's most recognizable voices, bringing to a close a remarkable run that has spanned more than five decades.

Related: '90s Rocker Announces New Album 37 Years After Beginning Career

Pop-synth legend Marc Almond is celebrating his 69th birthday today.

Peter Mark Almond — known professionally as Marc Almond — was born on July 9, 1957, in the seaside town of Southport, in Northwest England. He is one of the original founding members of Soft Cell, alongside the late Dave Ball. The duo rose to fame in the early '80s following the release of the massive debut single, a version of Motown artistGloria Jones' "Tainted Love," which defined a new era of music and became one of the most beloved tracks of the decade.

"Tainted Love" shot to the top of the charts in numerous countries, including the Official UK Singles Chart and the Australian Kent Music Report chart. The song also bagged the prestigious Single of the Year award at the 1982 BRIT Awards. However, Almond wasn't the track's biggest fan upon its initial release.

"It fills me with humility I suppose," the singer explained to Virgin Radio in 2023. “I didn’t like the song for a while as in some ways, I thought Soft Cell were more than just that one song, and of course we are. Over time, I came to realize that one song has made so much possible for us both — it changed everything irreversibly and for that I will always be grateful and lucky. I was lucky — never underestimate luck."

In June 2026, Almond announced Soft Cell's sixth and final studio album, Danceteria, which wrapped up recording just two days before Ball's death. The 12-track record is set for release on Sept. 25, 2026.

“Danceteria is a love letter to New York in the early ’80s. The time we spent in New York — where we recorded our first three albums — shaped us both as artists and people,” the singer explained in a statement. “To celebrate this period is a fitting farewell to Dave Ball and the final Soft Cell studio album.”

Related: Legendary '80s Pop-Synth Duo Announces Final Album Following Founding Member's Death

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Vintage is very much on trend right now. However, authentic antique pieces can definitely run a pretty penny. Luckily, you can still achieve that coveted vintage look without breaking the bank, especially with the right home decor. Area rugs are a great anchor piece to start with when it comes to designing a room, and Rugs Direct has you covered in that department. Take, for example, this vintage-style area rug that's on sale on Rugs Direct right now.

Jaipur Living's Boheme Printed Zelara Blue/Grey (BOH-34) Cotton Area Rug brings the most charming boho vibes to any space. Boasting a beautiful color combination of grey, blue, taupe and green, this pretty area rug features a pretty classic botanical pattern created using a timeworn effect. This gives it a vintage-style look (but without the higher antique price tag). To finish everything off, each end of the rug has a short fringe, giving major artisanal energy to the piece.

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Jaipur Living Boheme Printed Zelara Blue/Grey (BOH-34) Cotton Area Rug, 4 feet by 6 feet, $268 (Regular $376) at Rugs Direct

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This stunning area rug is part of Jaipur Living's Boheme Printed blended rugs, a collection made out of 78 percent cotton and 22 percent polyester. This makes this rug ideal for high-traffic areas of the home, including living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms and more. This also makes it a great option for homes with pets and children (or both). And despite its very durable construction, this rug still feels soft to walk on, making things feel cozy and homey.

Related: Aldi's Vibrant New Kitchen Rug Is Giving Rifle Paper Co. Vibes for Less

Caring for this rug is also easy. All you need to do is vacuum using a brushless setting whenever it's time to do so. When it comes to spills, blot them up using a dry white cloth. When vacuuming, remember to make sure to avoid the slightly frayed ends!

You can order this whimsical area rug on RugsDirect.com. Price will vary based on the size chosen. Right now, Rugs Direct has a fantastic sale going on, where you can save up to 29 percent on this rug. For example, the 4 feet by 6 feet size, which usually retails for $376, is currently on sale for $268. Even better, Rugs Direct offers free shipping. And, if you're not satisfied with your purchase for whatever reason, you can return it within 30 days using its Simple Returns process.

If you've been looking to refresh a room in your home, a new rug can add a much-needed new element to the space without spending serious money on a renovation or lifting a paintbrush. Snag this rug while it's still on sale for a quick room upgrade.

Related: Target's Sleek Outdoor Misting Fan Has Shoppers Running Back to Buy More

Now that she has a gold medal, Amber Glenn may have her sights on a Dancing With the Stars Mirrorball.

Speaking on the latest podcast episode of House of Maher, hosted byDWTS alum and fellow Olympian Ilona Maher, and her sisters, the group got to chatting about appearing reality TV shows.

"I would love to do Dancing With the Stars. Oh my God, it's been a dream of mine since I saw Meryl do it in 2014," the Olympic skater said, referring to Olympic champion Meryl Davis who took home the Mirrorball for Season 18.

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"I could talk to you all day about what your experience was, but like about the sets, the music, the makeup, the costumes," she said to Maher, who competed on DWTS in 2024.

"I just have so much respect for it, and it's so beautiful," she continued. "I'll listen to songs, and I'll just see it in my head. Like 'This would be perfect for that,' and 'This would be perfect for this.'"

Glenn, 26, took home a gold medal with Team USA at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympic Games this year. Her routine to Madonna's "Like a Prayer" particularly made waves as the Queen of Pop herself reached out to the skater to praise her performance.

Related: Val Chmerkovskiy Shares the Olympian He Would ‘Love To See’ on ‘DWTS'

If she were to trade her skates in for dance shoes, she said she'd "possibly" like to be paired with Alan Bersten, Maher's former partner, or "maybe Ezra [Sosa]."

"You'd have a lot of fun with Ezra, Pasha [Pashkov]'s also, like hilarious," Maher added.

Glenn also wasn't opposed to being partnered with a female pro, like how Jojo Siwa was paired with Jenna Johnsonin 2021.

"On the ice, I lift the other girls all the time," she said. "It's a lot of fun. Usually when I do paired up things, I am the lead partner."

Along with Davis and Maher, the skating star would be among many Olympians, including gymnasts Simone Biles, Laurie Hernandez, and Shawn Johnson, to participate in the ballroom dance competition show.

Most recently Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles competed on Season 35. She was partnered with Sosa, and the two made it to the finals.

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The reason beloved actor John Goodman no longer fires up his grill may be a bit of a surprise. However, it's integral to his health and well-being.

Goodman, 74, is best known for her role as Dan Conner in the legendary ABCsitcomRoseanne, in which he played a working-class dad opposite Roseanne Barr. He also left his mark on the film world in several Coen Brothers productions, including Raising Arizona, The Big Lebowski, and O Brother, Where Art Thou?. In recent years, he reprised his role as Conner in The Conners, but the series failed to find the same following that Roseanne did. However, he did find an entirely new generation of followers thanks to his hilarious performance on The Righteous Gemstones.

But the talented star, who recently dropped 200 pounds, revealed in a new video that he quit his hobby of grilling because it contributed to his issues with alcohol.

“I don’t grill anymore because I don’t drink anymore, and that was a good excuse to get drunk and stand in front of something hot,” Goodman shared in a July 8 Instagram video for Simpson’s in the Strand, a London restaurant that's owned by his friend Jeremy King.

Showing off his tremendous weight loss, Goodman looks healthier than ever in the video below.

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What Kicked Off John Goodman’s Weight Loss Journey?

While Goodman’s weight loss may feel sudden, his journey actually began back in 2007. In fact, AARP pointed out that the beloved actor has dropped a total of 200 pounds. So what kicked off his decision to make some serious changes to his health?

“I just got tired, sick and tired of looking at myself,” Goodman told ABC News in 2016. “You’re shaving in the mirror, and you don’t want to look at yourself. It gets dangerous.”

When it comes to his favorite methods of working out, Goodman told AARP that he enjoys “getting out and walking the dogs” and “boxing.”

“Nobody’s going to get hurt, but it’s just hitting the mitts and trying to learn,” Goodman said in 2023.

Related: John Goodman, 73, Looks Svelte on the Red Carpet After Revealing His Weight Loss Totaled 200 Pounds

For 50 years, Family Feudhas brought families together for laughs and unforgettable moments as five members of one family are pitted against five members of another family with the goal of guessing the results of audience survey questions for the win. And Parade can exclusively reveal that the half-century mark will feature some brand-new twists and turns for the iconic game show.

Emmy Award-winning TV personality Steve Harvey, who took over hosting duties in 2010, will return to helm Family Feud as the game show begins celebrating its 50th anniversary on Sept. 28. And Parade has an exclusive first look at the momentous occasion.

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Originally premiering in July 1976, Family Feud became one of the highest-rated game shows on daytime television. Five decades later, it remains a powerhouse in syndication, averaging 7.5 million daily viewers during the 2025–2026 season.

“Fifty years of Family Feud is an extraordinary milestone, and a true testament to the joy, laughter, and connection the show has brought to generations of fans. From its very first episode to today, Family Feud has remained a beloved part of the cultural conversation, and we’re thrilled to celebrate this moment in such a big way,” says Jennifer Mullin, CEO Fremantle. “With Steve Harvey at the helm and exciting new elements this season, we can’t wait for audiences to join us in honoring the past while enjoying everything still to come.”

Related: Steve Harvey Wins the Game! Check Out the Comedian’s Net Worth in 2026

To mark its 50th anniversary, the new season of Family Feud will feature special celebratory elements throughout, including:

• BetMGM is raising the stakes by increasing the Fast Money jackpot to $50,000, giving families the chance to win even bigger prizes across 10 special episodes this season. 
• The show will welcome back “legacy families,” fan-favorite contestants from past seasons returning to compete once again on the Family Feud stage.
• To help celebrate Family Feud’s milestone season, Carvel is bringing the party on stage with a custom Family Feud 50th ice cream cake during the premiere episode, alongside the launch of a Family Feud Birthday Cake Carvelanche hitting participating Carvel stores on Sept. 1.

• Starting in September, for a limited time, TGI Fridays will offer fans nationwide the opportunity to play the official 50th anniversary Family Feud board game inside the restaurants, either physically at their table or digitally on their phones via a special QR code found on the table tent. "TGI Fridays and Family Feud both bring people together to create memorable moments with family and friends," said Ray Blanchette, CEO, TGI Fridays®. "We're excited to partner with such an iconic brand as it celebrates its 50th anniversary and look forward to welcoming Family Feud fans into our restaurants."

• Gameloft launched "Family Feud Pocket," available now on Apple Arcade, where players can experience the gameplay with Steve Harvey as if they were on stage.
• Arkadium, a leading destination for casual games, offers the official browser-based version of Family Feud on Arkadium.com, where millions of players have enjoyed this classic game. This summer, Arkadium will debut a new version of Family Feud with Steve Harvey, giving fans a brand new and updated way to enjoy playing this beloved game show online. 
• Starting August 6, 2026, Family Feud partners with Gaggl to launch a special 50th Anniversary clip show on Twitch, giving creators the opportunity to celebrate some of the most memorable moments from host Steve Harvey's tenure on the series. The activation will also enable creators to award cash prizes to viewers during their streams, creating an interactive fan experience that commemorates 50 years of Family Feud and extends the celebration to new audiences.

The celebration continues across the two dedicated Family Feud free streaming channels, featuring themed episode blocks, and special anniversary content.

Family Feud is a 24/7 free streaming channel, featuring the most popular clips and episodes from host Steve Harvey, alongside Family Feud Classic, which also offers a continuous lineup of classic episodes from across the show’s decades-long successful history.

New episodes of Family Feud begin September 28, 2026. Check local listings or visit https://www.familyfeud.com/ for station information.

Related: ABC Announces Summer 2026 Premiere Dates, Including New 'Dancing with the Stars' Spinoff

In-N-Out may constantly have lines out the door and cars wrapped around the block, but one rival burger chain is Double-Double-ing down on their chances to win you over. It may not offer a "secret menu," but with a hefty selection of cheesy, flavor-bomb burgers and sweet tooth monstrosities, there's no need to learn any new lingo.

Slated to open dozens of new locations totaling about 600 restaurants nationwide, don't tell China, but 2026 may turn out to be the Year of the Burger.

It may not quite be a household name — yet — but Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is on the rise and likely coming to a town near you.

Where New Freddy's Are Popping Up Soon

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It seems Freddy's is leaving no stone unturned, with expansion plans stretching across the following U.S. regions:

• Northeast
• Midwest
• Rust Belt
• Northern California
• Pacific Northwest
• Florida

Additionally, this growing burger chain has shifted its approach. If you've visited a Freddy's before, you likely parked at or drove through a standalone building, but that may not be the case any longer, as future stores will seek out "endcap and in-line locations."

Drive-thrus may be a thing of the past at new spots, but hey, that just means you can burn a few extra calories if you're ordering fan favorites such as the Grilled Cheese Steakburger Combo.

If you're trying to keep things a little lighter, Freddy's recently rolled out healthier options like Steakburger and Chicken Bowls.

How Freddy's Fares Against In-N-Out

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We all know any ol' burger won't cut it. In-N-Out has long been famed for its seemingly identical bite no matter which location you visit, whether it's a Double-Double or a secret menu hack.

Freddy's, on the other hand, has more in common with Steak 'n Shake, serving thin-smashed steakburger patties, classic diner-style frozen custard, and an array of salty sides instead of the one thing In-N-Outers most often complain about: stale fries.

While In-N-Out's pink lemonade has become something of a legend, Freddy's is giving customers another reason to skip the soda fountain with the recent launch of Bevies — 5 Custard Cream Soda flavors, each topped with Freddy's signature custard cream.

While Peter Gabriel is known as the lead singer of Genesis, he also released his own tracks like "Don't Give Up" that would become a classic duet featuring pop icon Kate Bush.

"Don't Give Up" wasn't a chart-topper by any means, as it landed at No. 72 on the Billboard Hot 100. It had a better run in the UK, where it landed at No. 9 on the singles chart. What captured interest about the track was its overall message of hope and the combination of Gabriel's "mournful" vocals with Bush's breaking through the gloom. Elton John would even credit the track in a 2014 interview as having helped with his journey to sobriety, and it was played at Matthew Perry's funeral in 2023.

It's no surprise that "Don't Give Up" has emotional weight behind its lyrics due to the multiple sources of inspiration. In an interview with Reverb, Gabriel explained having seen Depression-era photos by photographer Dorothea Lange. The photos impacted the singer as they showed a poverty-stricken America.

"I was looking at some photos by Dorothea Lange—she's a great photographer. She had these classic pictures from the dust bowl Depression in America, and there was one called In This Proud Land, although I haven't been able to find it since. [He may have seen the '70s book titled In This Proud Land that includes Lange photos.] I used that for the first line in the song," said Gabriel.

The lyrics to "Don't Give Up" tell an emotional story of a man whose unemployment causes him stress in his relationship. The man feels isolation, loneliness, and despair, while the woman offers him encouragement and a sense of hope.

"I'd also seen a TV programme about the effect of unemployment on family life, so that played into my own problems at that time. I think a combination of that and domestic difficulties," he explained.

Gabriel's former wife, Jill, would also explain that the singer would get into "very deep depressions," and the song's title is something she'd always tell him. When it comes to the track's response among fans, Gabriel says that many have told him it came at a "very good time in their life." He even brings up a certain Friends star and its impact.

"It's fantastic that, a great feeling. This person, let's say, "a well-known American comedian," was very depressed. I was a great admirer of his, and he said, "This song saved my life." Totally unexpected," he said.

When it comes to the song as a duet, it was originally intended as a solo, but realized that the dynamic would work better between a man and a woman. Bush's part was meant for Dolly Parton, but she turned it down and was happy she did. Gabriel admits that "obviously a lot of the power of the song came from the way that Kate sings it."

Related: 1978 Rock Ballad, Written as an Apology to a Bandmate, Remains a Classic Soft Rock Anthem