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Aldi's Electric Scrub Brush Helps Reach Even the Hardest-to-Clean Areas
Some cleaning tasks always seem to take twice as long as they should, and tackling them becomes a giant chore. Scrubbing shower corners, reaching behind faucets and trying to get grime out of grout can require a lot of bending, stretching and elbow grease, especially when a regular sponge or brush doesn't quite reach the problem spots.
Aldi shoppers looking for an easier way to make those frustrating areas sparkle need this returning favorite cleaning gadget. The retailer's Ambiano White/Black Electric Scrubber is designed to make everyday cleaning less of a workout by helping handle repetitive scrubbing tasks around the home. Sign me up!
The compact electric scrub brush comes with four interchangeable heads, making it useful for a variety of surfaces and cleaning jobs. The different attachments can help with everything from bathroom tile and shower glass to kitchen sinks, backsplashes, grout lines, and other hard-to-reach areas where dirt and buildup tend to collect.
Ambiano White/Black Electric Scrubber, $9.99 at AldiAt $9.99, Aldi's Ambiano Electric Scrubber is an affordable alternative to pricier power scrubbers on the market. It is lightweight and portable, with a non-slip grip for a more secure hold while cleaning.
One of the biggest benefits of an electric scrub brush is that it can help reduce the strain of cleaning. Instead of repeatedly scrubbing the same spot by hand or kneeling to reach low areas, the spinning brush helps take care of some of the repetitive motion for you. This can be especially helpful for routine bathroom maintenance and quick cleaning sessions.
Related: Aldi's Fan-Favorite $15 Kitchen Essential Makes Easy Meals a Total Breeze
The Ambiano Electric Scrubber is best suited for everyday messes like soap scum, light grime and surface-level buildup. While it can make regular upkeep easier, it may not replace heavy-duty cleaning methods for tough stains, deep mineral deposits or years-old grime.
For the best results, avoid pressing down too hard while using the scrubber. Let the motor and brush attachment do the work, as too much pressure can slow it down. Choosing the right brush head for the job also makes a difference: smaller attachments are useful for corners and grout lines, while larger heads work better on wider surfaces.
For shoppers who want to spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying a clean home, Aldi's Ambiano Electric Scrubber is a simple, budget-friendly tool that could make those annoying cleaning jobs a little easier.
Related: Aldi's 5-Compartment Organizer Is a Game Changer for Lego Lovers
Quiet Luxury Is Trending, and Nordstrom Rack Has ‘Beautiful’ $23 Pearl Drop Earrings That Radiate Old-Money Charm
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Accessories can make all the difference in an outfit. The right pieces of jewelry have the power to transform a simple, no-frills ensemble into something that looks refined and intentional. If you want to give your collection a refresh, look for on-trend pieces that toe the line between subtle and eye-catching so you can style them with any kind of attire.
Capturing the essence of the quiet luxury trend, these Adornia Freshwater Pearl Drop Earrings are a fantastic example that's sure to become a regular in your everyday accessory rotation. Right now, you can score them on sale for a whopping 69% off during Nordstrom Rack's annual Clear the Rack Sale. Normally retailing for $75, they’re now marked down to just $23!
Adornia Freshwater Pearl Drop Earrings, $23 (were $75) at Nordstrom Rack Shop at Nordstrom RackGlamorous yet understated, these earrings feature freshwater pearls and cubic zirconia crystals, so they’ll add a luxe touch to your look without feeling ostentatious. Freshwater pearls dangling at the ends of these earrings perfectly encompass the old-money aesthetic. They’re classy and timeless, ensuring that they’ll never go out of style.
Because these freshwater pearls are natural, their size and shape may vary, ranging between 9 millimeters and 10 millimeters. Each pearl has an asymmetrical shape and a unique feel, which only adds to its charm.
Adding some glam and flair, the base of the earrings is adorned with cubic zirconia crystals. The crystals are pavé set, creating continuous rows that help them stand out. While the cubic zirconia crystals may not be real diamonds, they’re a great affordable alternative. They mimic the appearance of the real deal with their brilliance and high clarity. The crystals are also faceted with multiple flat surfaces to catch and reflect light from various angles, emitting a constant sparkle.
Shop More Deals- Adornia Freshwater Pearl Necklace, $25 (was $125) at Nordstrom Rack
- Effy Freshwater Pearl Bracelet, $35 (was $90) at Nordstrom Rack
- Adornia Crystal Toggle Tennis Necklace, $20 (was $95) at Nordstrom Rack
For an additional touch of luxury, these earrings are plated with 14-karat gold for a polished finish. They have a French wire post that’ll sit comfortably on your earlobes. The post threads through the piercing and curves down for a secure hold, eliminating the need for a backing.
These earrings have a 1-inch drop, designed to frame the upper portion of your face and draw attention to your features. The pearl is attached to the post by a delicate chain link and will sway along with your movements. Shoppers said they adore the style of these earrings and described them as “beautiful.”
The versatility of these earrings is unmatched. Dainty in nature, they’ll complement nearly any kind of outfit that you put together. You can pair them with casual attire like streetwear and athleisure, or dressy ensembles like chic office wear and cocktail dresses. However you choose to style these earrings, they’ll elevate your look with elegance and sophistication.
If you want even the simplest of outfits to exude quiet luxury, don’t hesitate to grab the Adornia Freshwater Pearl Drop Earrings at Nordstrom Rack while they're on sale for just $23!
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Chipotle Is Giving Away 80,000 Free Entrées—Here’s How to Claim Yours
Chipotle is giving away 80,000 free entrées between Wednesday, July 8, and Wednesday, July 29!
The chain has partnered with the PGA TOUR 2K25 video game for the Chipotle Hot Streak Quest, giving customers a chance to score codes for free entrées and double protein.
Here's how to earn your free codes before the offer ends.
How to get a free entrée from ChipotleFirst, you'll have to buy the PGA TOUR 2K25 video game, if you don't own it already, and complete the three themed chapters in MyCAREER mode. The chapters include in-game rewards like a taco-head putter and foil-themed golf attire.
The first players to finish the quest can claim one of 80,000 free entrée codes and double protein codes—available while supplies last through July 29.
The promotion is open to U.S. residents aged 18 or older, and winners can redeem their code in the Chipotle app until Sept. 30, 2026.
Chipotle fans can buy PGA TOUR 2K25 digitally on their PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch and more or physically at local retailers.
RELATED: Chipotle Just Started Testing Crispy Chicken—and Fans Already Want It Nationwide
Chipotle Rewards members can also enter the Chipotle Golf Collectible Sweepstakes for a chance to win a pitch mark repair tool—the tool golfers use to fix the small crater a golf ball leaves when it lands on the soft putting green.
The sweepstakes runs from July 8 to Wednesday, July 22, and the 100 winners will be selected randomly.
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How Sepideh Moafi of 'The Pitt' Made Emmy History
The Pitt Season 2 caused a stir with fans. Sepideh Moafi joined the cast and the background of her character was a mystery throughout the episodes. She stuck the landing in the finale with an emotional moment. Moafi, 40, made Emmy history for her portrayal of the new doctor and gave her reaction to the news.
Sepideh Moafi Is Emmy Nominated for Supporting Actress in a Drama Series The emergency room is no place for surgery, and yet...Photograph by Warrick Page/HBO Max
Moafi earned her first Emmy nomination for playing Dr. Baran Al-Hashimi on The Pitt. She is the first Iranian woman and woman from the Middle East to be nominated in the support actress in a drama series category, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
"I can’t imagine a more ideal world, show, character to have this sort of recognition with," Moafi said after the news. "Playing this woman who carries so many worlds, so many of which I can identify with in my own way, and that I’ve heard over the last several months, so many people identify with, whether it’s with her chronic disease, her chronic illness, people with disability, people who are mixed race, people who are from the Middle East or Africa, women in medicine who are in similar positions and have to deal with certain male counterparts."
Al-Hashimi revealed her seizure disorder to Dr. Michael 'Robby' Robinavitch (Noah Wyle) in the finale. He told her she had to reveal it to other people in the hospital because it could be a liability.
The character is also Iranian and Iraqi, which led to an interesting conversation with one of her patients. Moafi will return to the medical show in season 3.
Related: Why Bryan Cranston Says His Daughter’s Acting on ‘The Pitt’ Has Him Beat
'The Pitt' Has the Most Emmy Nominations in 2026The HBO series was nominated 25 times this year, which is the most for any show. The Pitt is nominated for Outstanding drama series.
Four cast members are competing in the same category. Moafi, Taylor Dearden, Fiona Dourif, and Katherine LaNasaare up for supporting actress in a drama series.
Three cast members are in the male version of the category. Patrick Ball, Shawn Hatosy, and Gerran Howell are nominated for their work.
Guest actors Brittany Allen, Tal Anderson, Tina Ivlev, Ernest Harden Jr., and Jeff Kober are nominated in the outstanding guest actor in a drama series categories.
Wyle is nominated for outstanding directing for a drama series for the episode, "12 P.M." The emergency room team loses a beloved patient. Charge Nurse Dana Evans mentors a new nurse for her first day, which gives more insight to their job. He's also nominated for his role in the outstanding lead actor in a drama series.
Writer Valerie Chu is nominated for writing the same episode. Kirsten Pierre-Geyfman and R. Scott Gemmill are nominated in the same category for the episode, "1 P.M."
The 78th annual Primetime Emmy Awards will air live on NBC on Sunday, Sept. 14. Mariska Hargitay of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit is hosting the award show.
Related: ‘The Pitt’ Season 2 Finale Teased Season 3’s Emotional Theme
'Shameless' Star, 39, Reveals the 'Trippy' IVF Result That Left Her Shocked
Emmy Rossum is opening up about the long road that led to motherhood.
On the Wednesday, July 8 episode of the Call Her Daddy podcast, the Shameless alum revealed she conceived her daughter through IVF after years of trying, and the process left her with a number she never saw coming: 72 eggs.
Rossum, 39, said she was diagnosed with PCOS, the hormonal disorder recently renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), and dealt with debilitating ovarian cysts throughout her 20s. She tried to get pregnant naturally, then through IUI, with no luck, before turning to IVF with her husband, Sam Esmail. "It happened in a big way," she said.
A side effect of the condition, she explained, is that some patients become a "super responder." After a single egg retrieval, her doctors woke her up with the news. "They said that I had 72 eggs, which was trippy and bizarre," Rossum said. She and Esmail welcomed their daughter on May 24, 2021, then had a son in April 2023.
A Labor She Was 'in Denial' AboutRossum also got candid about the day she gave birth, admitting she brushed off her early contractions. She gave Esmail a haircut, cleaned the house and ordered Thai food before it clicked. Then she refused to leave for the hospital until after a Knicks game, laboring over an exercise ball while she watched as her mom urged her to just get the epidural. She labored through the night and took an Uber to the hospital the next morning.
The actress, who has starred in projects like the AppleTV+ series The Crowded Room, next appears in Furious, premiering on Hulu July 27.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, text 'HOME' to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741.
1995 No. 1 Hit, Written in 15 Minutes, Reimagined as a Duet With Jason Aldean 30 Years Later
Jason Aldean and David Lee Murphy recently joined forces to deliver an intimate acoustic performance of the latter’s 1995 chart-topper “Dust on the Bottle.”
The all-star duet is one of the song's featured on Aldean’s popular video series known as the Fireside Sessions, which showcases stripped-down versions of songs with some of his favorite bandmates, friends, and collaborators. The rendition of “Dust on the Bottle” gives fans a chance to listen to the song in a whole new way following the recorded version of the pair’s collaboration, which appears on Aldean’s Songs About Us album, released earlier this year.
"Always a blast with @DavidLeeMurphy. 27 years of friendship and still going strong," Aldean captioned a portion of the performance on Instagram on Wednesday, July 8. "Watch our Fireside Session of “Dust on the Bottle,” out now."
View this post on InstagramIn the full-length performance clip, Aldean and Murphy are shown seated in wooden chairs, strumming guitars. The Georgia-born Aldean, 49, takes the first verse, showcasing his smooth signature vocals on the song while tapping his boot. After a harmony-filled chorus, ‘90s country icon Murphy, 67, jumps in to throw his distinctive vocals on the second verse before backing musicians take turns offering up some instrumental breaks.
Written by Murphy, “Dust on the Bottle” is a light-hearted track about making memories with a significant other over an old, homemade bottle of wine that was made from a real-life buddy named Creole Williams. According to a 2020 interview with The Boot, the lyrics of the song didn’t take very long for Murphy to write.
“I started playing the opening chords on my guitar for ‘Dust on the Bottle.’ It just came out of nowhere. The song just fell out in, like, 15 minutes,” he told the outlet. “I called Tony Brown, who was producing my record, and I told him, 'Man, I just wrote this new song!" We had all the songs picked out already for the album. He told me to bring it in and play it for him that day. When he heard the song, he said, "Man, we've got to cut this.”
Released in August of 1995 as the fourth single from Murphy’s Platinum-certified album, Out With a Bang, “Dust on the Bottle” became the singer’s first chart-topper and biggest hit to date, peaking at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
Aldean’s duet version of the track appears on his twelfth studio album, Songs About Us, which also features guest vocals from his wife Brittany Aldean on “Easier Gone” and fellow country star Luke Bryan on the title track.
Related: 1980 No. 1 Hit, Lasting 19 Weeks on the Charts, Ranked ‘Greatest Country Song of All Time’
Margaret Qualley Makes Bold Social Media Move Amid Reported Separation from Jack Antonoff
Margaret Qualley is drawing attention for her recent Instagram activity following reports that she and husband Jack Antonoff have separated.
According to a report from People published Wednesday, July 8, sources say The Substance actress and the Bleachers frontman have decided to separate after nearly three years of marriage. One source described the relationship as "rocky," while another said the pair are trying to "figure things out." No further details about the reported split have been shared.
Qualley, 31, and Antonoff, 42, married on Aug. 19, 2023, after first being romantically linked in 2021.
Even before news of the reported separation surfaced, fans had begun speculating that something was amiss after noticing Qualley quietly removed several Instagram posts featuring her husband. Among the missing photos were pictures from the couple's wedding, fueling rumors that the pair had split.
RELATED: Margaret Qualley and Jack Antonoff Separate After 3 Years of ‘Rocky’ Marriage
The actress also appeared to leave just one photo of Antonoff on her Instagram—a candid photo of the two laughing together shared back in February.
However, shortly after the separation news went public, fans noticed that Qualley had added the previously archived wedding photos back to her profile.
Additionally, fans also pointed out other recent changes on Qualley's social media. In April, she changed her Instagram username from @isimostar—a reference to "Isimo," a song by Antonoff's band Bleachers—to @sarahmargaretqualley23.
Despite the alleged split, the pair still follow each other on Instagram.
Qualley was also noticeably absent when Antonoff attended Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's Madison Square Garden wedding on Friday, July 3. Antonoff has been a longtime collaborator of Swift's, working on everyone one of her studio albums since 1989 in 2014.
Neither Qualley nor Antonoff has publicly commented on their relationships status.
1996 Pop Anthem That Launched a Global Girl Group Phenomenon Turns 30
"Wannabe" by the Spice Girls turns 30 years old today!
On July 8, 1996, the girl group released the debut single from their first album, Spice. The song quickly became a global phenomenon, reaching No. 1 in 22 countries by the end of that year, including on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S.
Its momentum only grew in 1997, when it topped charts in 37 countries, eventually setting the record as the all-time best-selling single by a girl group. In 2014, a study found “Wannabe” to be the most recognizable pop song of the previous 60 years among young English speakers.
To celebrate the track that launched their careers, Spice Girls Victoria Beckham, Emma Bunton, Mel B, Mel C, and Geri Halliwell took to Instagram to mark the occasion.
View this post on Instagram"I can’t believe it’s been 30 years since 'Wannabe' came out! The debut single that forever changed our lives... I’ll always be grateful to have been a part of that journey," Beckham wrote. "Thank you so much to our fans for all their love and support over all these years and to my @spicegirls sisters, I love you all so much!!!"
View this post on Instagram"30 Years of Wannabe … Thank you to my beautiful spice sisters," Halliwell added. "And thank you to the fans for joining us #FriendshipNeverEnds … 💕."
"Happy birthday Wannabe, 30 years! Love you all 💕 thank you!" Bunton said.
"30 years of girl power! Happy Birthday Wannabe🥳," wrote Mel C. "The song that changed our lives forever 🇬🇧✌🏼❤️."
Mel B, for her part, posted her tribute to Instagram on June 26, the anniversary of Wannabe's release in Japan on June 26, 1996 as a maxi CD.
"WOWZAAAA this song changed my life forever… and changed the lives of my 4 spice sisters too… what a journey its been," Mel B captioned her post. "honestly when we recorded it we could never have imagined what was about to happen…every single day im sooo thankful… thankful for my 4 sisters… thankful for every memory… and most of all thankful for our beautiful amazing fans who have been with us from the very beginning…30 yrs later and your still singing dancing laughing and celebrating with us… thank you thank you THANK YOU ❤️."
Walmart's 'Very Sturdy' $14 Covered Shoe Rack Is the 'Perfect Storage Solution'
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If you want to keep shoes by the door without leaving every pair out on display, Walmart has a deal worth seeing. The bestselling Bgtrend 3-Tier Covered Shoe Rack is on a flash deal for just $14 right now, down from $22. It comes in black, and the lowest price is for the three-tier option, but you can also choose from five-, seven-, or nine-tier versions if you need more storage.
The three-tier rack is designed to hold up to 12 pairs of shoes and measures 27.8 by 11.8 by 14.2 inches. It’s made with non-woven fabric, a metal frame, and plastic connectors. The shelves are removable, so you can adjust the storage space for different shoe heights, and the cover can flip up 180 degrees for access. It’s also designed to help keep dust off shoes while hiding the pairs you don’t want sitting out in the open.
Bgtrend 3-Tier Covered Shoe Rack, $14 (was $22) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThe hidden storage is what really sets this rack apart from a basic open shoe shelf. This gives shoes a place to go while the fabric cover keeps the area looking cleaner, which definitely makes a difference in small apartments, narrow hallways, or shared closets where visible clutter can make the entire space feel messier. And since the three-tier size is under 28 inches wide, it fits in tighter spaces without taking up much floor space.
One reviewer called it the “perfect storage solution,” noting it’s “super easy to put together,” while another described it as “very sturdy.” “This saves floor space, and it closes, so my shoes can be hidden,” another person wrote. A third shopper said it’s “great for organizing shoes,” adding that assembly was simple and required no tools.
Related: Walmart's $38 Retro 4-Drawer Floral Dresser Is a 'Pretty' Storage Upgrade for Any Home
While this rack would be especially useful near an entryway, it can also be tucked inside a coat closet or beside a back door where extra shoes tend to pile up. It could even work in a garage for seasonal pairs of boots or in a bedroom closet if shelf space is already maxed out. If you have more shoes to store, the taller versions are worth checking out before you choose.
Shop More Deals- Baokaler 10-Tier Covered Shoe Rack, $21 (was $37) at Walmart
- Sakugi 3-Tier Shoe Rack, $12 (was $25) at Walmart
- Scidweet Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer, $11 (was $18) at Walmart
This Walmart bestseller is a smart grab if your shoes need a better home, but you don’t want to spend much on a storage piece. Since it’s a flash deal and the lowest-priced option is marked down to just $14, now is a great time to add the Bgtrend 3-Tier Covered Shoe Rack to your cart.
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.
Grillo's Brings Its Signature Brine to a Bold New Cracker Collaboration
If there's one thing Grillo's Pickles has mastered — besides making seriously good pickles — it's keeping fans guessing. The cult-favorite brand has become just as well known for its delightfully unexpected collaborations as it has for its fresh, crunchy spears.
Over the past year alone, Grillo's has ventured far beyond the pickle jar, teaming up with Burt's Bees on a dill-inspired lip balm, partnering with Pabst Blue Ribbon for a pickle-flavored beer, and even blending its signature brine into a surprisingly refreshing Smoothie King pickle smoothie.
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Now, Grillo's is adding another unexpected snack to its growing list of quirky collaborations — this time with artisan cracker maker Firehook.
Grillo's Signature Brine Finds a Crunchy New Home in the Snack AisleThe two brands have joined forces to launch Grillo's Pickles Dill Pickle Crackers, a limited-edition Firehook snack that captures the bright, tangy flavor Grillo's fans know and love in an irresistibly crunchy bite. Instead of simply sprinkling on pickle seasoning, Firehook worked to recreate the unmistakable flavor of Grillo's signature pickle brine, delivering a cracker that's equal parts savory, zesty and snackable.
It's a pairing that makes perfect sense. Firehook has built a reputation for premium, artisan-baked crackers made with simple ingredients and bold flavors, while Grillo's has become the unofficial king of pickle-powered collaborations. Together, they've created a snack that's just as at home on a charcuterie board as it is straight out of the bag.
Related: Mug's First Limited-Edition Flavor Is the Nostalgic Dirty Soda You Didn't Know You Needed
Whether you're pairing them with cheese, layering them into lunch, dipping them into your favorite spread or enjoying them solo, these crackers are designed for pickle lovers who believe there's no such thing as too much dill.
The collaboration also continues a growing trend of playful partnerships in the snack aisle. Firehook has previously collaborated with brands like Graza, Fly by Jing and Ithaca Hummus to create limited-edition crackers inspired by fan-favorite flavors, making Grillo's the latest brand to receive the Firehook treatment.
At this point, nothing seems off-limits for Grillo's — and that's exactly why fans keep coming back for more. Whether it's lip balm, beer, smoothies or now crackers, the brand has found a way to transform its signature pickle flavor into products that spark curiosity and plenty of conversation.
One thing's for sure — Grillo's isn't running out of ideas anytime soon, and pickle fans are more than happy to see what the brand dreams up next.
Related: Fans Are Calling Costco's Ready-to-Eat, Protein-Packed Snack 'Unexpectedly Fantastic'
1979 One-Hit Wonder, Inspired by a Shakespeare Quote, Became One of the 'Best Pop Songs of All Time'
If you think pop music and Shakespeare have nothing to do with each other, well, it might be time to think again. The Bard influenced some of the most iconic songs of our time, from Bob Dylan's "Desolation Row," which namechecks Romeo and Ophelia, to Dire Straits' "Romeo and Juliet" and so many, many more. Another irresistibly catchy example? Nick Lowe's smash '70s hit, "Cruel to Be Kind."
Released as a single in 1979, "Cruel to Be Kind" peaked at #12 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it Lowe's biggest success in America. It's been a radio mainstay ever since; with the kind of chorus that makes everybody sing along:
You gotta be
Cruel to be kind in the right measure
Cruel to be kind it's a very good sign
Cruel to be kind means that I love you
Baby, you gotta be cruel to be kind
Taken from Hamlet, the old "cruel to be kind" quote (originally spoken by the Danish prince to his mother, Gertrude) turned out to be just as relevant when applied to a very different type of toxic relationship. But it was really written to get people out on the dance floor, as Lowe told The Guardian in 2021.
"I wrote this song when I was still in the group Brinsley Schwarz," Lowe recalled. "As a '70s pub-rock band, it was kind of taboo for us to admit to liking disco, but we were fans, and I was in love with Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes’ 'The Love I Lost.' So the original version of 'Cruel to Be Kind' was my attempt at a floor-filler for when we played clubs and freshers’ balls."
Brinsley Scwarz recorded "Cruel to Be Kind," but the album it was meant for didn't end up being released until years later. In the meantime, Lowe signed with Columbia A&R man Gregg Geller, who took a liking to the unreleased song.
"Each time he rang me, he’d mention 'Cruel to Be Kind,'" Lowe said. "But by 1979, I was this hip new wave producer who’d worked with Elvis Costello, Graham Parker and the Damned, and the song sounded embarrassingly pre-new wave to me. So I’d respond unenthusiastically. 'Oh yeah, you like that, Gregg? Great. But I’ve got a better song here about a woman who was eaten by her dog.'"
Thankfully, Geller persisted. "Cruel to Be Kind" went on to become a permanent pop culture fixture, thanks in part to a memorable cover of the tune in the similarly Shakespeare-inspired teen blockbuster, 10 Things I Hate About You. Billboard ranked "Cruel to Be Kind" at #152 on a list of the "500 Best Pop Songs of All Time," praising the song as "an ode to tough love and heartache, but with a driving soul-pop rhythm, clever lyrics (yep, he rhymes bona fide with coincide) and pristine harmonies that spell-out 'earworm' in extra bold letters."
Michael Putland / Getty Images
Decades after its release, in 2011, Lowe reflected on the legacy of "Cruel to Be Kind" in an interview with GQ.
"When I had my couple of hits, I sort of felt like I was ticking a box more than, 'Great, I’m off now on a chart-topping career,'" Lowe explained. "I felt that in order to do what I wanted to do, I had to do certain things, and one of them was to have a hit in my own right. At least one. I managed two or three, if you take in Europe."
"But in the United States, where it really matters, I had one hit and people still remember it, and it’s a pretty good little song, you know?" he continued. "And we do it now rather like it was when I first thought it up, which was a copy of 'The Love I Lost' by Harold Melvin the Blue Notes. And I love doing it. I really love it. It cheers people up. How I do it now sounds quite different. In fact, it was on the radio the other day and I was quite amazed how differently I do it now. If they’re good songs, they really will stand the test of time."
Shakespeare would likely agree.
NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Thursday, July 9, 2026
Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can't forget about the NYT's The Mini Crossword, too! Today’s NYT Mini Crossword puzzle features a mix of everyday objects, yummy foods, holiday references and more. There’s even one that refers to a modern internet term involving personal information.
Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.
So, if you're working on today's Mini Crossword on Thursday, July 9, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!
Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Thursday, July 9, 2026Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.
NYT Mini Across Hints1 Across: Something to look for while circling the block — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"
5 Across: Grow weary —HINT: Starts with the letter "T"
6 Across: This clue number x 2 — HINT: Ends with the letter "N"
7 Across: Rice-shaped pasta — HINT: Ends with the letter "O"
8 Across: December 25th, for short — HINT: Starts with the letter "X"
Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours
NYT Mini Down Hints1 Down: Calm before the ___ — HINT: Starts with the letter "S"
2 Down: Favorite food of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles — HINT: Starts with the letter "P"
3 Down: Black-and-white cookies — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"
4 Down: (This clue number x 2) + 2 — HINT: Starts with the letter "T"
6 Down: Release personal information about, informally — HINT: Ends with the letter "X"
Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.
NYT Mini Across Answers1 Across: Something to look for while circling the block — SPOT
5 Across: Grow weary —TIRE
6 Across: This clue number x 2 — DOZEN
7 Across: Rice-shaped pasta — ORZO
8 Across: December 25th, for short — XMAS
1 Down: Calm before the ___ — STORM
2 Down: Favorite food of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles — PIZZA
3 Down: Black-and-white cookies — OREOS
4 Down: (This clue number x 2) + 2 — TEN
6 Down: Release personal information about, informally — DOX
Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Jessica Alba's Loved-Up Beach Pics With Boyfriend Danny Ramirez Have Fans 'Obsessed With This Era'
Jessica Alba is loving life on the beach in Italy with her man.
In two separate Instagram posts shared on Wednesday night, the actress gave her followers a glimpse into her Italian getaway with Danny Ramirez, which was complete with flirty beach pics, images of delicious-looking pasta and desserts, and a sweet selfie video recapping their time together.
View this post on Instagram"La dolce vita with mi amor," she captioned the reel, highlighting their trip which was complete with cuddles and PDA between the two.
Her post also consisted of a photo of a sweet quote that read: "To travel with somebody you love is to see the world through the same eyes and fall in love together."
And fans couldn't get enough.
"Obsessed with this whole era for you!!!!" one wrote.
"Looooking [sic] VERY happy girly!!!" while another agreed, "You look amazing and happy. Enjoy your vacation."
However several followers couldn't help but comment on Alba's youthful look.
"She doesn’t age!! one said, with another adding, "The abs and you are the ultimate goal."
The trip for Alba, 46, and Ramirez, 33, comes after the two attended Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding on July 3.
"We love love," the Honey actress captioned a batch of photos, which featured Ramirez before heading out to the nuptials in New York City. "Congrats to T&T - such a beautiful night celebrating you."
Related: Jessica Alba Wows in Fiery Corset and Daring Sheer Bustier in New Photos
While Alba and Ramirez were first romantically linked in July, following her divorce from Cash Warren, they went Instagram official with a photo from a trip to Australia in October.
Since then she regularly posts with Ramirez, also an actor, whom she often refers to as "Mi Amor" in photo captions.
The actress and Warren were married from 2008 to 2024 and have three kids together.
“It’s now time for us to embark on a new chapter of growth and evolution as individuals," Alba wrote in an Instagram announcement in January of 2025. "We are moving forward with love, kindness and respect for each other and will forever be a family. Our children remain our highest priority and we request privacy at this time.”
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This 1976 Olympic Performance Turned One Skater Into America's Sweetheart—and Still Ranks Among Figure Skating's Greatest
Dorothy Hamill was just 19 years old when she delivered one of the most iconic and beloved performances in Winter Olympics history at the 1976 Games in Innsbruck, Austria. Her legendary gold medal-winning performance made her an overnight sensation, quickly earning her the nickname "America's Sweetheart."
Hamill's Olympic performance inspired generations of young women both on and off the ice, not to mention creating one of the biggest hair trends in modern history. One of the most influential Olympic figure skaters of all time, Hamill's performance at the 1976 Winter Olympics remains one of the greatest ever.
How Dorothy Hamill Captivated the 1976 Winter OlympicsFrom the moment Dorothy Hamill seemingly floated onto the ice at the 1976 Winter Olympic Games in Innsbruck until she took her final bow following her gold medal-winning free skate, few stories captivated the world quite like the rise of the 19-year-old American.
Born in Chicago and raised in Connecticut, Hamill quickly became a fan favorite with her graceful free skate, performed to a medley of music from Errol Flynn films.
Having entered the 1976 Winter Games carrying enormous expectations after appearing on the cover of Time magazine, it was Hamill's grace, poise, and composure under pressure that turned her into an international star. Quickly dubbed a "skater's skater," she delivered a masterful performance that featured her signature "Hamill camel" spin and showcased the athleticism and artistry that defined her career.
The Olympic Performance That Sparked a Cultural PhenomenonHamill's Olympic performance was watched by millions of television viewers, but its influence extended far beyond the rink.
Known for her signature wedge haircut, Dorothy Hamill inspired generations of women and girls to ask for "the Dorothy Hamill" hairstyle—a short, layered cut that was longer in the front and bounced as she skated. The look became one of the defining fashion trends of the late 1970s.
A testament to her lasting influence, Hamill wasn't just a gold medal-winning Olympian. She became a rare athlete whose success transcended sports, shaping popular culture while helping fuel a boom in figure skating's popularity across the United States.
Why Dorothy Hamill Is Still Relevant TodayNow 69, Hamill remains closely connected to the figure skating world. She mentors young skaters, advocates for athlete mental health, and frequently serves as a trusted voice during Winter Olympics coverage, offering perspective on the sport's biggest moments.
Nearly 50 years after winning Olympic gold, Hamill's influence continues to be felt both on and off the ice. Her unforgettable performance remains a benchmark for excellence in figure skating, while her impact on American culture—from inspiring future champions to creating one of the most recognizable hairstyles of the decade—has ensured her legacy endures for new generations discovering her remarkable Olympic moment.
Popular Mobile Game Suddenly Shutting Down After Nearly 7 Years — For Good
One of Nintendo's most-downloaded mobile games is nearing the finish line.
On Tuesday, July 8, Nintendo officially announced that the free-to-play racing game is shutting down for good, ending service on Sept. 30 after nearly seven years.
The servers go dark at 2 a.m. ET on Sept. 30 (11 p.m. PT on Sept. 29), and once they do, there is no way back in. Nintendo confirmed it has no plans for an offline version, so Mario Kart Tour will disappear entirely, including content players paid real money for over the years.
What Happens to Your Rubies and Gold PassNintendo has already started winding things down. It stopped selling the game's in-app currency, rubies, and its paid Gold Pass subscription on July 7. Players who still have an active Gold Pass can keep most of their benefits until service ends, minus the perks tied to an ongoing subscription, and anyone with leftover rubies can spend them right up until the shutdown.
Related: 1988 Arcade Classic, Ranked Among Best Video Games of All Time, Became a Timeless Hit
The End of a Record-Breaking RunMario Kart Tour launched in September 2019 and became Nintendo's biggest mobile launch ever, pulling in about 90 million downloads in its first week and passing 200 million by 2021. It let fans race as Mario, Luigi, Bowser and the rest of the roster on tracks based on real cities around the world. The game stopped getting new content back in October 2023 and had been running on recycled tours since, so the shutdown is not a total shock. Still, the confirmation stung for longtime players.
"Thank you for your support throughout the years," the official message wrote.
For fans who want one last lap, the clock is now ticking toward Sept. 30.
’80s Metal Band Announces New Dates for 2026 Tour in United States
Suicidal Tendencies, the crossover metal band, announced the expansion of its highly anticipated 2026 U.S. tour.
Apart from festival runs, the five-piece band, composed of lead vocalist Mike Muir, lead guitarist Dean Pleasants, rhythm guitarist Ben Weinman, bassist Tye Trujillo and new member Xavier "X" Ware on drums, announced a new run of headlining shows across the U.S.
In an Instagram post, the band updated fans on its upcoming concerts scheduled this year.
Fans will get to see Suicidal Tendencies headline one-night concerts in Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Michigan.
Joining them are pioneering hardcore band Cro-Mags and supergroup New World Man as special guests.
Brandon Pertzborn, Ty Trujillo, Mike Muir and Dean Pleasants of Suicidal Tendencies perform on stage at Wizink Center on May 21, 2022 in Madrid, Spain.Tickets for the upcoming shows will go on sale on July 19 at 10 a.m. local time.
Aug. 30: Worcester, MA - The Palladium
Sept. 1: McKees Rocks, PA - Roxian Theatre
Sept. 2: Detroit, MI - Saint Andrew's Hall
Currently, the band is keeping busy with festival appearances, a brief headlining run and support slots for high-profile rock acts.
Suicidal Tendencies had a successful U.K. and European run this June, performing at Copenhell in Denmark, Tons of Rock in Oslo, Norway, Jera On Air in the Netherlands, Vainstream Rockfest in Münster, Germany and Outbreak Fest in Manchester, United Kingdom.
The five-member band will remain on the road for the rest of the year, with shows scheduled from August through December.
Suicidal Tendencies' 2026 Tour Schedule:
Aug. 28, 2026: Scranton, PA
Aug. 29, 2026: Wantagh, NY
Aug. 30, 2026: Worcester, MA
Sep. 1, 2026: McKees Rocks, PA
Sep. 2, 2026: Detroit, MI
Sep. 4, 2026: Shakopee, MN
Sep. 6, 2026: Pryor, OK
Sep. 17, 2026: Louisville, KY
Oct. 4, 2026: Sacramento, CA
Nov. 19, 2026: Uncasville, CT
Dec. 5, 2026: Denver, CO
Amid its packed 2026 schedule, the band has yet to release a new full-length album.
Muir previously revealed the band has been recording while continuing to work toward a potential new album sometime this year following the release of their 2025 single "Adrenaline Addict," their first in seven years.
During an interview with Australia's Wall of Sound, the frontman revealed that Suicidal Tendencies is seriously considering making a new album, but only when the time and purpose feel right.
“I wanna make a record like that, that someone, wherever they're at, whatever they're doing, when they hear it, they go, 'Whoa. What is this?'' And it sticks out,” Muir said, as translated by Blabbermouth, referring to Weinman's experience of first hearing the band when he was a teenager. “And the same thing with Jay. He's got a different perspective from the SUICIDAL thing and the way that he came into music and being introduced to SUICIDAL and then being in a band and having that understanding. I think it's kind of, like, going, well, if we do a new record, it's gonna be for the right reason. So we're always recording, but whether there will be a new record — I actually, at this point, think there probably will be next year."
While a new album appears to be on the horizon, the band's ongoing tour will keep fans occupied in the meantime.
Related: Iconic ‘80s Band Announced as Performers for Metal Festival 2026
Justin Baldoni Publicly Addresses Blake Lively Lawsuit for 1st Time
Justin Baldoni has finally broken his silence, nearly two years after the release of his film It Ends With Us.
The Colleen Hoover novel-turned-feature film was the center of endless drama and court battles between Baldoni — who directed and starred in the film — and co-star Blake Lively.
"We have not spoken publicly for the better part of the last two years," Baldoni began in a video shared via Instagram on Wednesday, July 8. "And it's not because we haven't had anything to say. Because lord knows we have. But it just felt like every time we went to make a video like this, we wanted to speak, something was telling us not to. It just didn't feel like the right time."
Baldoni's wife, Emily Baldoni, who joined him in the video, went on to discribe the "injustice" and the "pain" they have felt over the last two years.
The Jane the Virgin star continued, "We don't even know if this is the right thing to say. We just know that we need to share something. What I will say is that there have been so many painful things that have been spoken into existence over the last couple of years. And that created so much noise. We didn't want to add to the noise."
"We just wanted to let the justice system run its course," he explained. "
View this post on Instagram"We are healing. And if you've ever been through something traumatic, you know that healing isn't linear. It looks different every day. We have had to rethink for ourselves what is real. And what matters. It's our family. It's our friends. It's our community who have been there for us. It's our faith."
The actor went on to share his gratitude to fans who have publicly voiced their support over the past 18 months.
"We're here, in large part, because of so many of you," he shared.
Baldoni's statement comes just one month after his lengthy lawsuit against the Gossip Girl star came to an end.
Following the film's August 2024 release, rumors began circulating of a rift between the stars. After more than a year of back and forth in court amid allegations of sexual harassment, a smear campaign, defamation and breach of contract, a judge dismissed a majority of the claims in April.
Over the following two months, the legal teams hashed out the final allegations and settled the case. Baldoni was ordered to pay Lively's attorneys' fees.
Former Member of Iconic ’90s Metal Band Returns With Unexpected New Collaboration
Less than two years after departing Slipknot, Jay Weinberg is carving out an entirely different creative path.
Modern Drummer’s three-time Metal Drummer of the Year has just released his latest single, “Drown Fountain,” a hazy, atmospheric track featuring Canadian grunge-gaze duo Softcult. It’s the latest team effort in his series of collaborations, led by the human metronome of mayhem.
Released earlier today, “Drown Fountain” is a departure for the drummer, whose trademark aggressive drumming gives way to distortion-heavy, yet ethereal guitar strums and dreamy, yet haunting vocals. The track also marks Weinberg’s vocal debut, with the multi-instrumentalist whispering lyrics and blending into twins Phoenix and Mercedes Arn-Horn’s ambient harmonies.
“‘Drown Fountain’ is this weird song I started writing back in 2013 that I’d keep revisiting over the years,” Weinberg said, via Blabbermouth, “but I could never figure out how to get it across the finish line.”
After stumbling upon the meditative sound of Softcult, he said the song finally came to fruition. He also admitted that the track is one of the most personal recordings he’s ever released.
“It’s an honor to work with them on this song,” he said, “especially because it feels more vulnerable than anything I've created in the past. I've never sung before; I've always had my loud drums to 'protect me' in a way. … It's all new and exciting territory, and having Mercedes and Phoenix help me bring it to life in this beautiful way has been an artistic dream.”
Along with the song, Weinberg released an official lyric visualizer (see above) featuring shifting artwork by Paul Romano, known for his work with Mastodon, Trivium, and other metal acts.
"I've been an avid fan of Paul's work ever since I was in an Ozzfest mosh pit seeing this insane painting of Moby Dick (Romano's cover for Mastodon's Leviathan) raised up as a stage banner. Ever since then, I've been enamored with the worlds that he creates for the artists he works with."
“Drown Fountain” follows Weinberg’s other collaborations, including “Sandstone,” featuring George Clarke of Deafheaven, and “Drone Operator,” featuring Nowhere2Run, which includes members of Code Orange. Each track, he said, is tied to a color of the rainbow, and a way for him to tap into his roots while also stretching his range with friends in the biz.
"That's pretty much the spirit of this project anyway," he said, "not really starting a full-on new band with different groups of friends, where we all have busy creative lives and responsibilities filling our schedules … but rather a low-pressure, single-song way to make something that's eclectic and exciting, that creates a larger, dynamic picture altogether. I'm so stoked to see where it goes from here."
Beyond his latest collabs, the son of Max Weinberg, legendary longtime drummer for Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band, also performs with Fuming Mouth, whose next album, The Ringing Bell, is set for arrival next week, July 17.
Busy, busy.
Related: ’70s Heavy Metal Legends Debut at No. 1 With New Release
Clarks' ‘Cute’ and 'Cushiony' Sandals Are 50% Off at JCPenney Right Now
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You don't have to break the budget to curate a great wardrobe. In fact, retailers like Walmart, Nordstrom Rack, and JCPenney are amazing options for those looking for dependable clothing and footwear styles at low prices. JCPenney's shoe section is currently booming with highly-rated footwear like the Clarks Cloudsteppers Arla Daisy Wedge Sandals, which are 50% off now.
The sandals originally cost $75, but have been reduced to just $38 during a limited-time sale. The shoes are sold in navy and black colors, which is perfect for those in need of a minimalist hue that they can sport everyday. The available sizes range from 5 to 12, including half sizes, at a standard medium width. The style is marked to run large, so it's worth considering ordering a smaller size for best results.
Clarks Cloudsteppers Arla Daisy Wedge Sandals, $38 (was $75) at JCPenney Shop at JCPenneyThe shoe design features a round toe, hook and loop tape closure that allows you to adjust it accordingly and a 1.5-inch wedge heel. The footwear is made of a fabric upper and lining with a thermoplastic rubber sole that's intended to provide slight traction so that you don't slip. The breathable insole has targeted cushioning that caters to your foot shape, prevents overheating, and provides all day support.
Clarks Cloudsteppers Arla Daisy Wedge Sandals, $38 (was $75) at JCPenney Shop at JCPenneyThese Clarks sandals are great for travel, as one shopper wrote that they're "sturdy but comfy for all day excursions, treacherous roads, and cobblestone streets in need of repair." Other customers described the shoe as "super cute," "extremely comfortable," "very well-made," "excellent," "stylish," and "very cushiony."
"I had back surgery and ankle surgery and need a knee replacement and Clarks are the only brand I find comfort in wearing," another reviewer wrote. Several shoppers additionally said that you can dress the sandals up or down, as you can wear them with casual jeans or fashionable skirts. Plus, since they're "lightweight," they're a great option to put in your suitcase.
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After you purchase these supportive Clarks sandals, you'll have the perfect seasonal shoe collection. You may even want to stock up on both colors while they're on sale. Add the sandals to your JCPenney cart, while they're 50% off!
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George Lucas Just Returned to Movies 14 Years After Selling 'Star Wars' to Disney
Although Star Warswas officially sold to Disney in 2012, the franchise hasn't stopped being synonymous with creator George Lucas, and that's not just because Lucasfilm remains an integral part of Star Wars' present and future.
For decades, Lucas was the guiding force—pun intended—behind Star Wars, and even in the 14 years since he handed the reins over to the House of Mouse, fans have continued to see him as inseparable from the galaxy far, far away that he created.
However, that legacy and lingering presence hasn't directly translated to Lucas actually being involved on the big screen. In fact, the last time Lucas was both a director and a writer on a project was the final installment of the Star Wars prequel trilogy, Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith.
In the time since, in terms of feature films, Lucas has only worked on the animated prequel trilogy era movie Star Wars: The Clone Wars (his final official Star Wars project), as well as Red Tails, Strange Magic and Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, for which he served as executive producer.
This context only makes it all the more shocking and hilarious that Lucas just returned to movies in his first acting role in nearly 20 years in perhaps the most unexpected project imaginable: the brand-new Minions movie, Minions & Monsters.
That's right, the blue overalls-wearing, banana-demanding little yellow Minions are what finally brought the Star Wars creator back to the movie screen—and, surprisingly, the cameo is genuinely charming.
This new Minions movie is set primarily in 1920s Hollywood, and the whole movie centers on the film industry. For that reason, early in the movie, various major touchstones in cinema history are depicted. Among them, along with Keanu Reeves' Neo in The Matrix, was George Lucas. The legendary filmmaker wasn't just shown on screen, though; he also voiced the part.
It's a brief cameo, mainly consisting of a joke about Lucas being trapped in a museum, but notably, it's one that perfectly captures Lucas' appearance in animation. And after such a long hiatus, the return of George Lucas to the big screen was very welcome.