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For decades, travelers going up and down highways and byways in the U.S. have had a few dominant brands to choose from when it’s time to fuel up or take a rest. Love’s Travel Stops, Pilot Flying J, and TravelCenters of America are the three dominant chains coast to coast. For most, they’re a place to fill up the tank, grab your favorite roadie soda, take a break in a (hopefully clean!) bathroom, and stretch your legs a bit before you try to catch up to all those cars you passed earlier. 

There are a few truck stops, however, that stand out as more than just rural highway scenery. These travel plazas are destinations in their own right, whether you’re a pro trucker trying to liven up the routes or a road tripper with a little time for the scenic route. From Oregon to Iowa, these seven stopovers range from slick new corporate behemoths with celebrity styling to mom-and-pop mainstays that have been on the map for 70 years. 

World’s Largest Truckstop in Walcott, Iowa

Since 1964, the Iowa 80 has claimed the world title for Largest Truckstop with whole city’s worth of services, with a convenience store, barber shop, embroidery shop, interstate dental practice, chiropractor, pet wash and dog park, drivers’ lounge, laundromat, a gym and a movie theater. There are six restaurants to choose from, from the Iowa 80’s own kitchen to a Wendy’s, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, Dairy Queen, and a Blimpie. The Iowa 80 even includes a truck showroom in addition to fleet services.

If there’s one time to visit, it’s the Truckers Jamboree, which begins this year on July 9. Started in 1979, the “Best Trucker Party in the Country” is a family-friendly affair featuring a “Super Truck Beauty Contest” for the prettiest rigs, an Iowa Pork Chop Cook-Out, an antique truck show, fireworks, and country bands. Don’t miss the Trucker Olympics, including a tire rolling contest, strap winding speed runs, and a truck pull that pits a strong man and a strong woman against a 12,000-pound antique cement truck. Admission to the Jamboree is free.

Buc-ees in Luling, Texas

What’s the big deal about Buc-ees? Buc-ees was founded in 1982 in Lake Jackson, Texas, and its reputation for scale matches that of the nearby Houston metro area. The first-ever Buc-ees is more of a standard convenience store size, but the biggest is outside of Austin in Luling. Clocking in at 75,000 square feet, the Luling location beat out the previous Buc-ees record-holder in Dolly Parton’s hometown of Sevierville, Tennessee. But Luling won’t hold the title for much longer: a new 76,245 square foot facility will be opening in Fort Pierece, Florida in 2027.

It’s the details that fill all the square footage that have made Buc-ees something of a national phenomenon. Case in point, indie musician Phoebe Bridgers recently posted a photo of herself cradled in the arms of the Buc-ees beaver in Loxley, Alabama (the first location to open outside Texas) as she launches her first tour in several years. 

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Buc-ees boasts its own brand of snacks, including Beaver Nuggets (named for the chain’s mascot) that are big puffed corn pieces glazed in crunchy caramel. For bigger appetites, Buc-ee’s brisket sandwiches, barbecue offerings, and kolaches give visitors a taste of Texas. There’s also a vast assortment of merchandise to be had, from Buc-ees merch to cast iron cookware, outdoor grills, and an entire wall of beef jerky. One thing that makes Buc-ees unique? It’s not a truck stop. The hundreds of gas pumps and record-length car wash at this travel plaza are just that, for cars.

Dolly’s Tennesseean Travel Stop in Cornersville, Tennessee

“When I sit back in my rocker, I want to have done it all,” Dolly Parton told Time magazine in 1977. Nearly fifty years later, she’s stuck to that cup of ambition, adding “truck stop proprietress” to her long and illustrious resume. The country star just cut the ribbon at Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop, halfway between Nashville and Birmingham at Exit 22 off Interstate 65. 

Emblazoned with a cheeky logo that reimagines the classic “mudflap girl” silhouette with Dolly’s famous bouffant and a microphone, Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop is hard to miss. The destination includes all the amenities and Southern hospitality you could expect, including an event space, a fully stocked general store, a dog park, a trucker’s lounge, hot showers, laundry facilities, and the singer’s own coffee brand.

Related: Dolly Parton's Newest Venture Is Aimed at Travelers — Here’s What She’s Building

The full-service restaurant features down-home fare like breakfast biscuits, barbecue sandwiches, and brisket, with the singer’s signature butterfly icon noting which recipes were developed from her Good Lookin’ Cookin’ book with Rachel Parton George. 

Given how often the singer must have driven past the Buc-ees Sevierville, near her Dollywood theme park, it’s not surprising she had a quip for her competitor: “I’m sure some of you want to know why I wanted a truck stop. Well, I couldn’t leave it to beavers.”

Russell’s Travel Center in Glenrio, New Mexico

Route 66 ran from Chicago to Santa Monica through the Texas panhandle up until 1985, when the “Mother Road” made famous by John Steinbeck was replaced by the newer, faster I-40 route. But you can still get your kicks on the Texas / New Mexico border at Russell’s Travel Center in Glenrio. Russel’s is packed to the gills with midcentury kitsch, including a classic car museum worthy of American Graffiti, a mid-century style diner, and more prints of Elvis and Marilyn Monroe than you can shake a stick at. 

Russel’s was founded in 1995 by Mark Russel, a New Mexican entrepreneur who grew up in a family where trucking and diners were a way of life. In addition to the chapel, car wash, convenience store, and gas pumps, Russel showcased a selection of the vintage cars he began collecting in 1977. In 2023, TravelCenters of America purchased Russel’s Truck & Travel, but has maintained the car museum and diner that have made this a throwback favorite for over thirty years.  

Related: The Ultimate Under-the-Radar Summer Road Trip Guide for the 250th Anniversary

Jubitz Truck Stop & Travel Center in Portland, Oregon

Truckers forums and Reddit threads continue to hail Jubitz as one of the best truck stops in the country, with amenities you don’t usually find but feel very Oregonian, like the Jubitz Cinema. No one loves a movie theater quite like Portlanders (there’s also a short-film cinema at the PDX airport), and the 52-seat theater at Jubitz offers $6 tickets that’s hard to beat.

For livelier fare, The Ponderosa Lounge regularly features country bands, line dancing, and events like the Rose City Round Up Car Show. The Portlander Inn offers travelers a clean, convenient place to stay near Portland International Raceway. There are also two restaurants on site, including the Jake Brake Deli and the home-style Cascade Grill, which serves all-day breakfast. It’s been known as “the world’s classiest truck stop” since 1952, and was dubbed “Disneyland for Truckers” by Willamette Week.

The Lincoln Highway Tavern in Evanston, Wyoming

What it lacks in size, scale, or star power, Highway 30 makes up for in history and authenticity. It’s named for the first coast-to-coast highway in the United States, which preceded the more famous Route 66 by about a decade and was later replaced by Highway 30. Founded in 2015 by local Michael Kindler, this is less a travel plaza than a local bar and restaurant in a former gas station, with outstanding bison sloppy joes, tamarind-chile tacos, and spicy wings. That said, the Lincoln Highway Tavern is tucked right next to a Flying J truck stop if you need to get some gas and put some groceries down your neck, as they say in the 1977 trucker classic Smokey and the Bandit. 

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“Good food, real rest, a little music, and people who are genuinely glad you stopped in.… That’s what the road has always deserved,” said Dolly Parton at the June 24 ribbon cutting in Cornersville, Tennessee. Whether you stop at Dolly’s or another travel plaza on this list, there’s some real hospitality to be found coast to coast at travel plazas new and old. 

Nearly 20 years after it became the romantic soundtrack to a generation of weddings, anniversaries, first dances, and countless love stories, the Goo Goo Dolls are celebrating the song's enduring legacy with a new live version of "Stay With You." For millions of listeners, the song remains a reminder of first dances, lifelong promises, and the people who stood beside them through life's biggest moments.

Goo Goo Dolls Release a New Live Version of "Stay With You" @googoodollsofficial

“Stay With You (Live and Intimate)” is dropping tonight at midnight EST on all streaming platforms! #GooGooDolls #StayWithYou #NewMusicFriday #NewMusic #Rock

♬ Stay with You - Goo Goo Dolls

As the Goo Goo Dolls, including original members John Rzeznik and Robby Takac, embark on a massive summer 2026 headlining tour, the band has released a special treat for fans: a live and intimate version of "Stay With You."

For longtime fans, the live version feels like reopening a cherished photo album filled with life's biggest moments.

In a social media post announcing the 2026 live version, one fan wrote, "This song means so much to me! I heard it live this year and was in tears. My husband and I got married at 19, and everyone said we wouldn't make it. We chose this song as a promise to each other that we'd have each other regardless if no one else had us. We are in our 19th year of marriage, and I still come back to this song as a reminder of the promise we made to one another."

"My ringtone all of 2007," added another.

Another shared, "My wedding song."

Related: Gin Blossoms Frontman, 60, 'Sounds Amazing' Singing Iconic Breakup Anthem 30 Years Later

Why "Stay With You" Still Resonates With Fans

For Goo Goo Dolls fans, "Stay With You" isn’t just a song—it’s a personal snapshot of life’s biggest moments.

Originally recorded in 2006, "Stay With You" was the second single from the band’s eighth studio album, Let Love In. Written by Rzeznik and songwriting legend Glen Ballard, the heartfelt ballad became one of the band’s signature songs. Known for some of the most iconic love songs of the '90s and 2000s, including "Iris," "Slide," and "Better Days," the Goo Goo Dolls became one of the most emotionally resonant bands of the early digital music era.

The Enduring Legacy of the Goo Goo Dolls

The enduring themes found in songs like "Stay With You" are a reminder that the Goo Goo Dolls have always had a gift for turning life's biggest moments into unforgettable songs. Nearly two decades later, that emotional connection remains as timeless as ever.

Related: 1993 Love Song Called 'The Dreamiest Single of the '90s' Is Finding New Fans Thanks to a 20-Year-Old Music Phenomenon

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Keeping up with everything on Netflix is almost like fighting the mythical Hydra. Every time you finish a show, three more seem to pop up in its place. But it's that seemingly unlimited well of content that has made it the most popular streamer today, even amidst the numerous amount of competition. And so, at the end of every week, we kick up our feet, grab the remote, and listen for that classic "tudum" sound as we dive into Netflix's voluminous library.

Luckily for you, Parade has flagged three new shows coming to Netflix this week that can become your new binge obsession! Here's what you need to check out this weekend (June 26-28, 2026).

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New on Netflix (June 26-28, 2026)The Last Ship Eric Dane in 'The Last Ship'

Courtesy of Netflix

Let's start with a series that's not necessarily new, but new to Netflix. Running from 2014 to 2018, The Last Ship takes place in a world ravaged by a pandemic (perhaps wouldn't have made the best binge watch in 2020). With 80% of the world's population wiped out, a 218-person crew aboard a U.S. Navy vessel is one of the last bastions left. The military men and women are suddenly protectors of humanity at large, searching in desperation for a cure to the mysterious virus. Despite airing a decade ago, the first three seasons of the TNT series arrive with fortuitous timing, as it stars the late Eric Dane in arguably the biggest role of his career.

Related: Who Was Eric Dane’s Wife? Inside His Decades-Long Relationship With Rebecca Gayheart

The American Experiment Mike Pence in 'The American Experiment'

Courtesy of Netflix

In case you somehow haven't heard, 2026 marks 250 years of American independence. When it comes to the holiday weekend proper, you have your pick of the litter when it comes to fireworks and other televised specials. But Netflix is getting an early jump on the celebration with the five-episode docuseries The American Experiment. The show takes a page out of Ken Burns' book, telling the story of how the thirteen colonies united against the British, overthrew the Redcoats, and emerged on the other side with both independence and their own system of government.

To tell the story of the past, though, The American Experiment uses the voices of the present. The series features numerous talking heads from prominent political figures, from Hillary Clinton to Mike Pence to Ted Cruz. But Netflix also highlights numerous notable individuals, from a NASA astronaut to a TikTok educator to the youngest woman mayor in American history. It's an effort to show how the values fostered by the Founding Fathers still resonate a quarter of a millennium later — and what needs to be done to ensure the experiment continues for another 250 years.

Related: Andy Cohen and Anderson Cooper's CNN July 4 Special Will Feature a Historic Times Square Ball Drop

Avatar: The Last Airbender Season 2 (L to R) Kiawentiio Tarbell as Katara, Gordon Cormier as Aang in 'Avatar: The Last Airbender'

Katie Yu/Netflix

In 2024, Netflix brought together its own form of elements to create their version of Avatar: The Last Airbender. The series is not to be confused with the hit James Cameron mythical film franchise, nor the critically-panned movie adaptation from M. Night Shyamalan. Instead, the show takes the acclaimed Nickelodeon series and brings it into the third dimension, bringing us a brand-new version of the characters we know and love.

In the wake of its debut, Netflix renewed Avatar for both Seasons 2 and 3, which are set to end the series. So, with an endpoint already in mind, what's in store for Aang (Gordon Cormier), Katara (Kiawentiio) and Sokka (Ian Ousley) this time around? After staving away the Fire Nation and protecting the Water Tribe, the motley trio is off to the Earth Kingdom, in the hopes of convincing its ruler to aid in the battle against Fire Lord Ozai (Daniel Dae Kim). And fans of the original series know that a visit there comes with the introduction of a fan-favorite character: Toph. Played by Miyako, our heroes will attempt to get the blind warrior to teach Aang earthbending, in the hopes of adding more powers to his repertoire. While there is no war in Ba Sing Se, hopefully there isn't one over the remote to make sure you binge all seven episodes this weekend!

Related: Troph's Earthbending Abilities Are in Full Swing in 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' Season 2 Teaser

During retirement, staying mentally active should be on a retiree's priority list. But experts say keeping your brain engaged doesn't have to involve complicated memory exercises or expensive programs. According to mental health professionals, classic word games like Scrabble and crossword puzzles can be an entertaining way for older adults to exercise important cognitive skills.

What the Research Actually Says About Word Games and Brain Health

A Columbia University and Duke University study found that older adults with mild cognitive impairment who regularly completed crossword puzzles experienced slower memory decline and less brain shrinkage over 18 months than those who played computer-based cognitive training games.

Photo by SimpleImages on Getty Images

"Scrabble and crosswords stimulate language-based networks within the brain, including retrieving words and processing speed," Dr. Lauren Grawert, MD, FASAM, Clinical Advisor at The Garden Recovery & Wellness, told Parade. "I like that these types of activities provide mental stimulation without being perceived as 'cognitive training.'"

Rather than committing to structured programs that engage multiple systems in the brain, taking on these hobbies makes it easier for many retirees to do something they already enjoy.

It's About More Than Memory

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Word games also offer benefits beyond mental exercise, problem-solving, and increased processing speed. Retirees who regularly participate in mentally engaging activities can reinforce a sense of accomplishment. Licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Nina Bakoyiannis, PhD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist at SelfWorks, told Parade games like Scrabble do much more than test vocabulary.

Photo by Rena-Marie on Getty Images

"Because one of the most challenging parts of old age is noticing your body and your mind change, functioning is changing, and having regularly structured activities where you are able to accomplish these sorts of tasks, explore what it is like to challenge ourselves cognitively, helps maintain the confidence in ourselves that's so important," she explains.

Related: Retirees Who Shop at Costco Are Missing the Best Part — and It Has Nothing to Do With Food

The Social Benefits Matter, Too

Experts say one of the biggest—and often overlooked—benefits of word games is the opportunity for connection. Whether you're competing with a spouse over a Scrabble board or tackling the Sunday crossword with friends, these activities can help reduce feelings of isolation.

"Being able to keep that play is not only important for our emotional well-being," Dr. Bakoyiannis says, "but I think keeps alive a core part of ourselves and our youth that's meaningful to tap into."

While experts agree that there's no single game or activity that guarantees better brain health, the greatest benefits come from regularly participating in activities you genuinely enjoy and will stick with. That's why timeless favorites like Scrabble and crossword puzzles remain two of the best ways to exercise your brain muscles.

Related: Next up:

Sources

• Dr. Nina Bakoyiannis, PhD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist at SelfWorks
• Devanand, D.P., Goldberg, T.E., Qian, M., Rushia, S.N., Sneed, J.R., Andrews, H.F., et al. (2022). Computerized Games versus Crosswords Training in Mild Cognitive Impairment. NEJM Evidence, 1(12), EVIDoa2200121. https://doi.org/10.1056/EVIDoa2200121
• Dr. Lauren Grawert, MD, FASAM, Clinical Advisor at The Garden Recovery & Wellness

Recreating childhood meals can serve as a powerful way for retirees to connect, not just with others, but with long-dormant parts of themselves. That's because some people can lose their sense of belonging when they leave the workforce, and finding ways to recreate that feeling can help them regain that sense of belonging.

According to the experts we spoke with, making those childhood meals can do more than just restore those feelings. Apparently, it can also unlock some other common childhood sensations, like creativity, forgotten memories, and more.

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Why Therapists Say This Simple Act Can Ease Loneliness in Retirement

When it comes to mealtime, food can do more than just sustain your body, according to Danielle Fokshner, Founder of Emote Psychotherapy.

"When people leave the workforce, they often lose a significant source of belonging," she says. "Recreating childhood meals can evoke this feeling of belonging for retirees, reassuring them that they are still part of something bigger."

In her practice, Fokshner says she directs clients to this kind of cooking when they want to channel strength—either from their ancestry or inner child, as these nostalgic meals can enhance connection to family memories, cultural heritage, and lineage through recipes passed down generationally. Hung up on which recipe to make? Consider calling a friend or family member who was around during that time to get inspiration or details about some of your favorite meals.

The Surprising Way Taste and Smell Can Transport You Back in Time

When Suzanne Wylde, a leadership coach and author at Suzanne Wylde Coaching, used to work with the elderly, she said that she was struck by how much people clung to their memories of the past. But, talking about the good old days wasn't enough for them, and instead, Wylde said she found a new approach that helped them to connect.

"I believe that by revisiting their childhood meals, they could have a more tangible experience of the past," she says. "Taste, like smell, is very evocative of emotions and memories. Perhaps, by enjoying something they loved as a child, old memories will surface."

To get the best results, Wylde says retirees should share the meal, allowing them to connect with others and perhaps spark memories.

Why Familiar Foods Feel Like an Anchor During Major Life Changes

It's no secret that retirement is a time of great change for many. Joseph DeVasto, therapist with The Oasis Rehab in California, says that recreating these childhood meals can serve as a touchstone during a time when it may feel like everything is different.

"Our childhood meals are closely tied to identity and memory," he says. "The smell and taste of certain foods can bring us back to childhood. It may remind a person of a time when they felt safe and secure."

For most retirees, DeVasto says retirement is marked by significant changes. "A number of things change at once, including work routines and social circles," he continues. "Enjoying familiar foods from childhood can create a natural progression between the past and present. This can potentially foster emotional well-being, especially for retirees who are feeling lonely."

Related: The Retirement Habit Doctors Wish More People Knew About

Sources:

• Danielle Fokshner, Founder of Emote Psychotherapy
• Suzanne Wylde, a leadership coach and author at Suzanne Wylde Coaching
• Joseph DeVasto, therapist with The Oasis Rehab

Many people call retirement their "next chapter." That's because retirement really is a whole new phase of your life, and it comes along with both financial and emotional changes.

However, one expert we spoke with says that retirement is more than just a single part of your story. Instead, he says it's made up of four distinct phases, each with its own pros and cons.

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Phase 1: The Honeymoon Phase

When it comes to retirement, Moti Gamburd, CEO of Raya's Paradise, an Orange County luxury assisted living community, says the first phase is when people are happy to let go of their productivity.

"For many people, that’s the honeymoon phase," he says. "For decades, your life was dictated by either a boss, deadlines, schedules, or the need to produce more. For some, it was customers, patients, employees, even family."

Gamburd says that this phase brings about a certain relief as well. "For the first time in decades, you could go a day, a week, or a year solely directing your time and attention where you want," he continues, adding that most people don't feel guilty about it.

Phase 2: The Blur Sets In

If the first phase is full of relief over being free of the shackles of busy calendars, long days, and to-do lists, Gamburd says phase two is when all of that catches up with you.

"The second phase is when you stop thinking about your week as a series of appointments and deadlines," he says, noting that this is when people typically begin to struggle.

"When you are working, Friday feels different from Monday, and January feels distinct from June," he explains. "Once that structure is gone, time can begin to blur together. I've had retirees tell me they were shocked by how quickly weeks and months seemed to pass. What they thought was boredom was often related to a lack of rhythm."

Phase 3: The Quiet Sets In

In this phase, Gamburd says that many people start to notice a real social decline. "I’ve seen this with business owners, nurses, teachers, executives, contractors, and just about every other job out there," he says. "For decades, someone wanted their opinion, their judgment, they needed a decision or solution to a complex or thorny problem. Then one day…the phone stops ringing."

Gamburd says the hardest part of this phase is that many retirees realize just how much of their identity came from being useful to others. "I’ve seen retirees struggle more with that than with the loss of a paycheck."

Phase 4: Finding Peace

While the first three phases may involve big adjustments to your schedule and your social calendar, Gamburd says it all comes together in the final phase.

"The fourth phase is honestly where everyone should strive to be, but it’s not something you can rush toward," he says, adding that some people never get there at all. "It’s a stage where you forget the idea of being important and start thinking about living in the present moment."

The retirees who seem happiest aren’t always trying to relive their corporate glory years or fill their days with new and different productivity targets, according to Gamburd, who says they are just "at peace" with just enjoying relationships, experiences, family, hobbies, learning, or appreciating a good day without any success goal.

What to Do If You're Stuck in One of These Phases

Retirement is a huge life transition, so it's normal to struggle a bit with the change. However, Gamburd says that some people may have a harder time than others. "If someone is having a hard time during one of these transitions, I'd tell them not to freak out," he says. "Usually, whatever is troubling you isn’t a sign that something is bad. It just means that something old is gone, and you’re waiting for something new to fill its place."

Whether that means taking up a new hobby, reconnecting with friends, or simply working through your feelings until you can transition into the next phase of retirement will vary depending on which part of retirement you're struggling with. If you're struggling with these phases, consider reaching out to a licensed therapist or counselor to get help. Retirement should be a reward for all of those years of hard work, and you deserve to enjoy your time.

Related: The Retirement Habit Doctors Wish More People Knew About

Sources:

• Moti Gamburd, CEO of Raya's Paradise, an Orange County luxury assisted living community

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Trying to get your indoor and outdoor space together can rack up quite the bill. That's why we turn to retailers like Walmart and Amazon for home furniture options that won't break the bank. Walmart's Summer Deals Event is underway until June 28, and we're taking full advantage of the backyard deals. The Serwall Outdoor Small Folding Side Table is next on our shopping list, while it's 55% off. 

The table initially cost $100, but has been reduced to as low as $45 in the black colorway. The rest of the seven colors — including everything from bright blue to a deep red — range in sale price from $46 to $51. You can shop the table as a single or as a two-pack. The two-pack of tables is being sold for as low as $89, also in the black hue, but only has five total colors currently in stock, so you'll want to act quickly! 

Serwall Outdoor Small Folding Side Table, From $45 (was $100) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The side table is 17.91 inches long, 16.73 inches wide, and 14.37 inches tall. Therefore, it's the perfect size for small patios and tight balcony spaces. The design features a slatted tabletop that's convenient for drainage and rounded edges (so if you bump into it, it won't hurt like scratch edges would). The side table is foldable so that you can maneuver it easily throughout the seasons.

The beautiful part of this side table is that it requires no assembly, so you can begin using it straight out of the box. The piece is made of HDPE (high-density polyethylene), which is widely used for its durability and ability to withstand extreme temperatures. The furniture is described to be weather-, water-, and UV-resistant. It's actually made from recycled materials, making this a sustainable purchase as well. 

Related: Walmart Has a 'Lightweight' 2-Piece Lounge Set That's 'Great for Summer' for Just $14

The table can hold up to 110 pounds. Shoppers described the bestseller as "excellent quality," "stable," "extremely well-made," "durable," "very functional" and "sturdy." One reviewer noted that it's "just the right size" for a chaise lounge or Adirondack chairs, making it the perfect add-on during a poolside afternoon. 

Shop More Deals

• Easy Spirit Easygo Knit Slip-On Sneaker, $31 (was $99) at Walmart
• Extra Large Stackable Storage Bins, $180 (was $260) at Walmart
• Phopollo Outdoor String Lights, $27 (was $50) at Walmart

With a price this low, it's easy to transform your backyard. Now you'll have somewhere to place your food and beverages during a warm summer day. Shop this convenient small folding side table at Walmart while it's 55% off! 

Former frontman of The Smiths, Morrissey, is never one to hold back his feelings. The singer has launched another attack on his former bandmate Johnny Marr, in a now-deleted essay.

The 67-year-old singer took to his online space, Morrissey Central, to post an essay entitled ‘The Art Of Forgery’, which has since been removed from his website. It appears he was triggered by an unannounced BBC radio documentary about The Smiths.

As reported by Far Out Magazine, the lengthy post read: “A BBC radio program supposedly tracking the story of the Smiths will be aired on July 13. The BBC has warned that it is critical in nature towards Morrissey.”

Speaking in third-person, his statement said, “Morrissey was not invited to take part in this timeworn story – which has seen at least five identical documentaries wherein Marr grabs center stage as the unchanging face of discord … and Bigmarr Strikes Again. The souring of The Smiths dream unravels once again through Marr’s mechanical paces, which are by now totally predictable plot development.”

He felt like documentaries about the band make Marr appear as an "angel" while Morrissey came across as an "executioner."

He also denied the longstanding rumor that he removed bassist Andy Rourke from the band by leaving a note that read “you are fired” on his car, which Morrissey called a “tired lie”, adding, “I hadn’t hired Andy Rourke and I would have no place nor right to fire him.”

Morrissey stood firm that, “The Smiths was my voice, my lyrics, my song-titles, my album titles, my single and album artwork, my vision, my vocal melodies, my emotions – nobody else’s. When The Guardian say that they love the Smiths but hate Morrissey, it is like saying ‘we hate David Bowie but we love the Spiders From Mars’. It’s all so staged, isn’t it?”

The Smiths performing live on the Tyne Tees TV music show, 'The Tube', Newcastle upon Tyne, 16th March 1984. Left to right: Andy Rourke, Mike Joyce, Morrissey and Johnny Marr. (Photo by Pete Cronin/Redferns/Getty Images)

Despite his anger, it sounds like Morrissey has not heard the new BBC documentary. Despite not seeing it, he lambasts it for sounding "like it is NOT for anyone who knows or cares about the Smiths,” before claiming, “Marr has intentionally divided the Smiths audience into Marr or Morrissey factions.”

This new essay also sees Morrissey claim Marr has “devoted his entire life to killing Morrissey in whatever way available.”

He added: “He embodies precisely what he claims to hate in others. His predatory sport of ‘calling Morrissey names’ is now in full wachine-machine overdrive. Why isn’t he bored of it all yet?”

This isn't the first time the 80's music legends have feuded. In 2024, Morrissey spat out at Marr for turning down a significant sum of money to reunite The Smiths. He also hit out at the guitarist for taking ownership of trademarks related to the band, thus stopping the release of a compilation album.

Marr explained the trademarks were made in order to “prevent third parties from profiting from the band’s name”, and “As for the offer to tour, I didn’t ignore the offer – I said no“.

Morrissey has recently announced his North American tour. It kicks off in Las Vegas on Aug. 14 and hits New York, D.C., Nashville, Houston and more cities along the way before concluding Nov. 14 at the Darker Waves Festival in California. It comes after a string of cancelled dates and no-shows for the 1980s musical icon.

Related: 1985 Indie Rock Classic Started as a B-Side Before Becoming a Defining ’80s Anthem

As July 4th approaches, those collecting Social Security benefits may be wondering about how the holiday will affect their payments. That's because the Social Security Administration (SSA) has a monthly payment schedule that allows it to send out Social Security benefits to the country in a timely manner.

However, things like holidays—including the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding—can disrupt the payment schedule. And when you rely on your Social Security payments to pay for everyday essentials, those minor disruptions can feel like a big deal. When will July's Social Security benefits be paid? And will Independence Day change that payment schedule? Here's what we know.

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Will July 4th Affect When You Get Paid?

According to the Schedule of Social Security Benefit Payments 2026, there will be no payments issued on July 4th. That's due in no small part to the fact that the holiday falls on a Saturday this year, and the SSA doesn't issue weekend payments.

So, the good news is that you'll be able to enjoy your local Independence Day fireworks without having to worry that the holiday is going to cause your monthly Social Security payment to be delayed.

Here's the Full July Social Security Payment Schedule

Curious when your payments will arrive this month? Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will receive their benefits on the first of the month in July. These beneficiaries are the first to see their payments disbursed, followed by:

• Social Security recipients who started receiving benefits before May 1997 or those who receive both SSI and Social Security benefits should receive their money on July 2nd
• Social Security recipients with birthdays between the 1st and 10th of the month should receive their benefits on July 8th (the second Wednesday of the month)
• Social Security recipients with birthdays between the 11th and 20th of the month should receive their benefits on July 15th (the third Wednesday of the month)
• Social Security recipients with birthdays between the 21st and 31st of the month should receive their benefits on July 22nd (the fourth Wednesday of the month)

Supplemental Security Income beneficiaries Will Receive Two Payments in July

Because of the way the schedule falls, SSI recipients will get paid twice this month, because the payment that would typically arrive in August will fall on a Saturday. Instead of disbursing on the weekend, the SSA will be sending those payments out the Friday before, which falls on July 31st.

What Should You Do if Your Social Security Benefits Are Late?

While the holiday shouldn't affect when the SSA disburses payments, your financial institution's rules could. If you are expecting your payment within the first two weeks of July and it doesn't arrive, you may want to reach out to your bank to find out why it has been delayed.

If your financial institution has no record of having received the payment, you should contact the SSA directly by calling 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. local time for more information.

Related: Two Politicians Want to Change a Rule That's Been Penalizing Working Seniors for Years

Sources:

• Schedule of Social Security Benefit Payments 2026

Long before conversations about Hollywood beauty standards became commonplace, actress Ellen Weston said she faced an unexpected obstacle while trying to build her career: talent agents thought she was "too sexy."

In a vintage interview with The Baltimore Sun, Weston recalled being told that her appearance worked against her professionally, despite her training and ambitions as an actress.

"I was just too sexy," she said talent agents repeatedly told her, explaining that they struggled to see where she fit in the industry. Rather than opening doors, Weston suggested her looks often led people to make assumptions about the kinds of roles she could—or couldn't—play.

It was a frustrating reality for the New York-born performer, who had studied acting extensively before breaking into television. Weston attended New York's High School of Performing Arts and continued her education at Hofstra University, New York University and Hunter College before pursuing acting full time.

Despite those early setbacks, Weston ultimately built a career that spanned decades.

Soap opera fans came to know her through roles on Guiding Light, Another World and The Young and the Restless, while television audiences also saw her appear in series including Get Smart, Bewitched, Bonanza, The Bob Newhart Show, Wonder Woman and S.W.A.T.

Her career eventually expanded well beyond acting.

Weston became an accomplished television writer and producer, working on projects including Lies Before Kisses, See Jane Run and And the Beat Goes On: The Sonny and Cher Story.

She also returned to Guiding Light years after starring on the soap, this time serving as its head writer.

Looking back, Weston's comments offered a glimpse into an era when actresses were frequently judged as much by their appearance as their abilities. While she acknowledged the industry's perception of her, she ultimately forged a multifaceted career both in front of and behind the camera.

Weston's story has taken on renewed attention following news of her death.

The actress, writer and producer died on May 28 at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles at the age of 87, her manager confirmed. She is remembered not only for her television roles but also for her later work shaping stories behind the scenes. 

Related: Yungblud Cancels Festival Performance After Tonsillitis Flare-Up

As someone who capitalizes on nearly every opportunity to snack, Trader Joe's is a major test of my willpower. What starts as a regular weekly grocery haul always ends up getting derailed by any number of tasty snack essentials. And while I'll happily indulge in every one, I can always count on finding something new that earns a place in my weekly snack rotation.

This week, I decided to take a chance on a familiar snack aisle favorite: Trader Joe's PB&J and PB&C Snack Duos. Sold separately so you can choose between your favorite flavors, these $4 on-the-go treats take you back to childhood with a design reminiscent of classics like Dunkaroos and Ritz Handi-Snacks. Seeing as each one offers a unique twist on the classic PB&J sandwich, I had no issue snatching up both to finally see what the hype is about.

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PB&J and PB&C Snack Duo, $4.29 at Trader Joe's

Nathan Hutsenpiller

Inspired by the lunchbox classics many of us grew up with, Trader Joe's Snack Duos are a fun take on a familiar culinary combo. Featuring crispy rolled wafer sticks and a tasty dip, each flavor scratches a nostalgic itch while taking you back to the days of recess, Saturday morning cartoons and playing outside until the streetlights came on.

Retailing for just $4.29 a pop, you can choose between peanut butter and jelly or peanut butter and chocolate flavors, both of which I found equally satisfying. With six individual packs inside each 12.7-ounce box, the PB&C variety features cocoa crème-filled rolled wafer sticks alongside a soft, creamy, lightly salted peanut butter dip. Overall, I found the combination to be perfectly sweet and salty, making it an ideal late-night snack or midafternoon indulgence.

Nathan Hutsenpiller

The PB&J Snack Duo, on the other hand, takes a direct shot at the classic childhood sandwich with crispy rolled wafer sticks packed with a salty peanut butter filling and paired with a satisfyingly sticky-sweet raspberry fruit dip. From the very first bite, I knew this would be my favorite of the two flavors, as it expertly captured the familiar notes of a PB&J sandwich while still being surprisingly filling despite its travel-friendly size.

Related: Trader Joe's $4 Easy Breakfast Brings a Touch of Luxury to Busy Mornings

A Worthy Snack Indulgence

Nathan Hutsenpiller

Considering their sub-$5 price tag and the fact that each box comes with six individual packs, I'd consider Trader Joe's Snack Duos an affordable and reliable snacktime pick. Each one is kosher-certified, contains eight wafer sticks with dip and packs eight grams of protein, making them a solid choice for kids and adults alike. 

Whether it's an afternoon snack, post-meal treat, or late-night indulgence, you're getting a flavorful trip down memory lane with every bite. Snag your favorite flavor on your next Trader Joe's haul and maybe grab an extra box to stash away in your bedside table, office desk, or car for snack emergencies. While you're at it, check out Trader Joe's Crustless Peanut Butter & Strawberry Jam Sandwiches for an equally nostalgic flavor experience.

Related: 9 Discontinued Trader Joe's Frozen Meals Shoppers Are Still Mourning

Summer House fans got an unexpected sighting this week when Carl Radke traded the Hamptons for a summer celebration on the Jersey Shore.

The Bravo personality, 41, made a special guest appearance at Wawa's Summer Sips event, which took place at The Cabanas at Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City, where he mingled with guests and helped officially kick off the summer season.

The event celebrated the launch of Wawa's new Iced Fruit Beverages, with attendees spending the afternoon relaxing poolside, sampling the new drinks, enjoying light bites and soaking up the waterfront atmosphere. For the occasion, Wawa even temporarily rebranded its Blue Raspberry Cloud Lemonade as "The Ocean," a nod to the beachside setting.

But for Bravo fans, Radke's appearance was the real attraction.

The longtime Summer House cast member was seen chatting with attendees, posing for photos and helping toast the start of summer, marking another public appearance following months of headline-making moments tied to the hit reality series.

Radke has remained one of Bravo's most talked-about personalities after his highly publicized split from former fiancée Lindsay Hubbard played out on Summer House. More recently, viewers have watched him navigate a new chapter in his life, balancing his career, sobriety journey and dating life while remaining a central figure on the show.

Although the Atlantic City event wasn't tied to Bravo, it offered fans a chance to see Radke in a much more relaxed setting—far removed from the emotional conversations, relationship drama and weekend house conflicts that have defined recent seasons of Summer House.

For Radke, it was a decidedly lighter public outing than the ones Bravo viewers have grown accustomed to seeing on television. Instead of navigating tense house meetings or relationship questions, he spent the evening celebrating summer, greeting fans and enjoying the launch of Wawa's newest seasonal beverages.

Related: Yungblud Cancels Festival Performance After Tonsillitis Flare-Up

Mountain Dew is celebrating the year the popular soda was born with a limited-edition soda.

In honor of 1948,1,948 bundles will drop exclusively on TikTok Shop over the course of three days: June 29, June 30 and July 1, with quantities to be announced on Mountain Dew Instagram Stories at noon ET each day.

And the best part... each of the bundles will cost $0.05! It will include a commemorative can as well as a 10-pack of Mountain Dew mini cans. Quantities are limited to one bundle per person.

"Mountain Dew™ was born in Tennessee in 1948, when two brothers with a bold citrus recipe set out to make something different. What they created was distinctive, refreshing, and unlike anything else on shelves. In celebration of the brand's legacy and as an American Original brand, Mountain Dew is announcing a limited-edition commemorative can bundle featuring a design inspired by the brand's heritage story and available for purchase for a limited time on TikTok Shop," a press release shared with Parade read.

The design of the can is based on "four creative concepts that debuted across social/digital media this spring, each paying tribute to the Mountain Dew origin story."

This celebration of the soda's history is one fans won't want to miss out on!

"Since 1948, Mountain Dew has been defined by bold spirit, unrelentless grit and ambitious energy – qualities that continue to drive the brand forward today." Michael Smith, VP of Marketing for Mountain Dew, PepsiCo Beverages U.S, said in the statement. "This commemorative can is about bringing that origin story to life, paying homage to our roots as an American Original and giving fans a meaningful way to celebrate Dew history."

Back in 1966, a Gothic soap opera launched on ABC that has since gained a cult following. And Hollywood just can't just shake the source material either — even into 2026, with news of another reimagining taking shape.

It was announced this week that Warner Bros. Animation is reviving Dark Shadows for an all-new series. The '60s show featuring tormented vampire Barnabas Collins and his supernaturally dysfunctional family will be brought back to life in the adult-animation vain, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The original version aired on ABC from 1966 to 1971 and was one of the first hit daytime series, spawning multiple film adaptations including Tim Burton’s 2012 feature starring Johnny Depp and Michelle Pfeiffer.

Per THR, here's the new show's official logline offered by WBA: “Blending gothic, horror, and supernatural genres, this coming adaptation promises all the dark twists and romantic intrigue that defined the transformational series across its 1200-plus episode run.”

WBA announced the project during a panel at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, THR also noted on Friday, June 26.

ABC Daytime’s series Dark Shadows took the serialized television format of traditional soap operas and twisted it on its head, turning a simple story of a community with various romantic connections playing out daily into a gothic adventure in a world with a supernatural twist.

While the soap is best known for introducing Barnabas Collins (Jonathan Frid), the series’ first supernatural storyline actually began months earlier. With the show struggling in the ratings, it ended its first year ranked 13th out of 16 with a 4.1. The creative team decided to do something different, and thus, between December 1966 and March 1967, Dark Shadows told the tale of The Phoenix in a unique supernatural adventure.

Dark Shadows tells the story of Victoria Winters (Alexandra Moltke), who comes to the town of Collinsport to work for the Collins family as a governess to the young David Collins (David Henesy). Living at the mansion, Collingswood, are David’s father, Roger Collins (Louis Edmonds), his aunt Elizabeth Collins (Joan Bennett), and his niece Caroline Stoddard (Nancy Barrett).

TMZ has received another note regarding Nancy Guthrie.

On Friday, June 26, the outlet reported that it received a new email, allegedly from the same individual who has been sending messages to the outlet claiming to have information about the person responsible for Guthrie's disappearance.

TMZ says the person who sent the email claims to have video of the "'main guy' and Nancy the day she died." The person who sent the email also wrote, "I am not the idiot who recently called in a tip about her burial site in Mexico." The sender also claims that there are two people responsible for Guthrie's disappearance.

TMZ went on to share additional quotes from the message.

"I have a phone stashed in a secure location guaranteeing both the information it stores and the safety of the phone," the email reads, per the outlet. "What it contains is my definition of delivering them on a silver platter, a short video of the main guy with Nancy the day that was probably her last, pictures of both involved, names and addresses and age."

TMZ has contacted the FBI in regard to the latest email. The outlet also responded to the note—in which the sender requested one bitcoin for the location of the phone and its password—demanding one screengrab of Nancy as proof to authenticate the claim.

Related: Former FBI Agent Is 75% Confident a Breakthrough Is Near in Guthrie Case

The report comes just days after TMZ reported that it offered to pay the one bitcoin in an attempt to verify the legitimacy of these notes, which are completely separate from the initial two ransom notes that were sent to the media. In an update, the outlet reported that the FBI was following up on the secondary notes.

Guthrie, 84, has been missing since Feb. 1. Authorities believe that she was abducted from her Arizona home in the middle of the night. The FBI was able to retrieve footage from Guthrie's Google Nest camera which showed a masked individual on her front stoop the night she went missing. However, that individual has not yet been identified.

Anyone with information is asked to call Tucson’s 88-Crime hotline at 1-520-882-7463 or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

READ NEXT: FBI Expert Explains Timing of Shocking Ransom Note News (Exclusive)

There are certain individuals whose energy lands differently. When one is around them, there is a feeling of being nurtured, cared for, and energetically supported by their aura. Those who radiate nurturance don’t do it by exerting effort; the effect they have on others is emanated naturally. But where does it come from? Astrologically speaking, certain birth months are known for their innate warmth, empathy, and ability to provide a safe space for others. At times, this nurturance can take on the form of protection and even empowerment. 

Which Birth Months Are The Most Nurturing?

If you were born in March, July, October, or September, you radiate a nurturing aura. 

July: Your Nurturing Aura Is Maternal And Inspiring

Being the only birth month that bridges the magical luminaries, the Sun and the Moon, July carries an energy that is both heart-warming and inspiring. Whether you’re a July Cancer or Leo, people feel a maternal type of support when they are around you. Your empathy makes them feel held, which allows them to access their most vulnerable side. They feel caressed at a soul level, which allows them to open up about the deepest feelings they aren’t able to share with anyone else. At other times, your aura has the opposite effect. The fire coming from this birth month may inspire others to express themselves powerfully and authentically. Your childlike, excited approach to life reminds them that life is worth living. In this sense, your aura empowers others to forge their own path by embracing creativity and authenticity. 

READ: The Seashell That Reflects Your Soul’s Journey, Based on Your Birth Date

March: Your Nurturing Aura Is Protective and Compassionate 

With a unique combination of water and fire, March babies grow to be some of the most nurturing souls. This birth month unites the compassionate and understanding spirit of Pisces with the desire for protection only Aries can have. If you were born in March, people know you always lend a shoulder to cry on. Regardless of the nature of the situation they are in, you’re not someone to judge or take sides. In this sense, your birth month’s compassion is limitless. When things get heated, your other side, your fire side, comes alive! When those you love are threatened in any way, you also come out to the rescue. You protect them from whoever dares to break their peace. While this may not seem like it, it is a form of nurturance that very few birth months exhibit. 

October: Your Nurturing Aura Is Understanding and Transformative

When it comes to emanating an aura of understanding, there is no month more nurturing than October. Combining the relationship focus from Libra with the emotional depth of Scorpio, October-born are often sought after by others in matters of the heart. Friends and even family members seek your advice when the world of personal connections gets tricky for them. Fair and impartial, you’re able to understand both sides involved, naturally attuning to what’s fair. But it is your emotional depth what illuminates what others can’t or don’t want to see or feel. Without even trying, you help those around you access a part of their feelings that was previously hidden. Their interactions with you open their hearts and eyes to the truth, often leading to the discovery of deeper emotions and desires. In this sense, your nurturing aura is also transformative for those around you. 

NEXT: Which Film Matches You, Based on Your Birth Month

September: Your Nurturing Aura Is Warm And Supportive

Those born in September are nurturing in ways that are warm and very helpful. Bridging the heart-centered influence of Libra with the intelligence of Virgo, September babies are balanced beings one needs around. You’re fun to be around socially, but also warm and present whenever life gets serious—especially when relationships need attention. Being an excellent listener, you’re a master at conflict resolution and at finding win-win scenarios for all parties involved. Your other nurturing side is much more practical, manifesting as intellectual support for others. Whenever your friends or family can’t figure something out, they can count on your nurturing support. Regardless of the nature of the problem at hand, you’re one to skillfully figure it out against all odds. At times, you may not nurture with your heart but with your brilliant mind. 

UP NEXT:

In 1969, Stephen Stills wrote one of the most celebrated songs in rock history about a woman who had already broken his heart and left him.

Three years later, he wrote another song about that same woman. This time, he'd finally given up and accepted romantic defeat.

The woman was Judy Collins. The first song was "Suite: Judy Blue Eyes." The second was a quieter, more resigned piece called "So Begins the Task," and it became the song that David Crosby, the most outspoken and critical member of Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young (CSNY), would eventually call his favorite thing Stills ever wrote.

https://youtube.com/shorts/VIapgVnXWN0?si=lwQnwoqLhEx5Qhue

The story starts in 1968, when Stills' band Buffalo Springfield had just broken up and Collins was getting ready to record a new solo album. One night at the Whisky a Go Go in Los Angeles, Stills spotted Collins in the crowd. "I was drinking beer because I couldn't afford whiskey," he said later. "I really wanted to meet her. I used to listen to her albums before I went to sleep. I went up to her and kissed her hand."

Collins had no idea who he was. She'd been so focused on her own career that she'd missed his band's top ten hit entirely. But when Stills talked his way into playing on her recording sessions, things moved at warp speed. "I was smitten," she said. "He was awfully good-looking. The relationship began as soon as he came in the band."

It didn't last long. The geography was wrong from the beginning. "My centre was in New York and his in LA," Collins said. "He hated New York and he hated therapy. And I was in both." Both of their careers were pulling in different directions, and Collins had just gotten her son back after years apart from him. Something had to give.

When Stills came to her hotel room to play her what he'd written about their breakup, the moment was exactly as bittersweet as the song. "Afterwards, we both cried," Collins recalled. "And then I said: 'Oh, Stephen, it's such a beautiful song. But it's not winning me back.'"

"Suite: Judy Blue Eyes" came out on the first Crosby, Stills and Nash album in 1969. Then Stills wrote more songs about Collins. More, actually, than most people realize. "Well," he told Rolling Stone in 1971, "there are three things men can do with women: love them, suffer for them, or turn them into literature. I've had my share of success and failure at all three."

Related: 1966 Folk Classic, Written While Gordon Lightfoot Was Still Married, Became Greatest Regret

Here's the most astonishing part. "So Begins the Task" is believed to be the first song Stills ever wrote about Collins, which means the song that sounds like acceptance actually came before the songs of desperate longing. He found peace with losing her before he even wrote the songs to try to win her back.

Stills originally wrote it for Déjà Vu, the CSNY follow-up album, but the band didn't feel it fit and the song sat in limbo for years. It finally found a home on the debut album of Stills' band Manassas in 1972. Stills called Manassas the best album he ever made. Even Jerry Garcia is rumored to have played pedal steel guitar on the track. Collins recorded her own version less than twelve months after it came out.

The Last Praise

In 2022, Stephen Stills posted a video of CSNY performing "So Begins the Task" from 1969. Crosby, tagged in the comments, jumped in to proclaim it "probably my favorite Stills song."

Anyone who knew Crosby understood why that particularly mattered. He wasn't someone who handed out praise easily. He was blunt, combative, and perfectly happy to be brutally honest to the point of being critical of friends in public. When he said something was his favorite, he meant it. The man didn’t mince words.

David Crosby died on January 18, 2023. That exchange was one of his last known public moments of celebrating another musician's work.

After his death, Stills put together a benefit concert in his memory and invited Neil Young to play. Talking about losing his bandmate, Stills said: "There's part of me that misses him dreadfully, and there's part of me that thinks he got out of here just in time if you look at the world."

Collins and Stills eventually made peace with their entire history. They went on tour together, recorded an album called Everybody Knows, and performed the songs they'd written about each other for audiences who'd been following their love story for decades. Collins also wrote her own song about Stills, called "Houses," in 1975, which she described as the counterpoint to "Suite: Judy Blue Eyes." Stills didn't even realize it was about him until she played it to him for the new album years later. He was, she said, very touched.

When they started rehearsing for their tour, Stills turned to Collins and said: "My God, we should have done this instead of the romance."

Collins smiled. "But then you wouldn't have written Suite: Judy Blue Eyes," she said. "So that wouldn't have worked."

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Summer is finally here, which means it's time to stock up on light, airy pieces that will keep you cool and comfortable in sweltering temperatures. If you're looking for an easy throw-on-and-go outfit you can wear all season long, the Ekouaer Bamboo Matching Set is a top-rated Amazon option that's stylish, soft, and currently on sale for up to 37% off in select colors.  

The popular set, originally $26, is now marked down to just $17 in gorgeous bright blue and dark pink hues that are perfect for summer. You can also shop it in black, green, gray, pink, navy, and a variety of other shades at $19, and sizes range from extra small to XXL. Amazon's Prime Day sale ends after June 26, so add it to your cart today if you want to lock in this last-minute deal!

Ekouaer Bamboo Matching Set, From $17 (was $27) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Made from 48% polyester, 47% bamboo viscose, and 5% spandex, the cute lounge set is designed to feel lightweight and gentle against the skin. The breathable fabric has moisture-wicking and cooling properties, ensuring you stay comfortable while lounging, running errands, or sleeping. The crewneck T-shirt features a relaxed, slouchy cut with flowy sleeves and dropped shoulders, while the matching shorts have a drawstring waistband that you can tighten or loosen based on your preferred fit. Two side pockets also come in handy for holding cash, keys, or your phone. 

Thanks to its versatile design, the matching set can be either worn together or mixed and matched with other pieces in your closet. You can wear the tee with denim shorts and sandals for a casual everyday look, and pair the shorts with a tank, sneakers, and a baseball cap while heading to the gym or taking a walk. 

With over 200 five-star ratings from Amazon shoppers, this matching set is a favorite summer buy. Multiple reviewers praised the "cute and comfy" design, noting that the "soft" and "flowy" fit is perfect for lounging or quick errands. Others highlighted the "light and breathable" fabric, with one buyer writing that it's "so comfortable" and another adding that it feels "like wrapping yourself in cool air."

Related: Amazon’s 'Lightweight' and 'Breathable' $19 Cotton-Linen Pants Are a Summer Lounging Staple

With its flattering fit, ultra-breathable material, and a range of gorgeous colors to choose from, this bamboo lounge set makes an excellent addition to any summer wardrobe. Grab it while it's still on sale for as low as $17 at Amazon. 

Barnes & Noble has announced its biggest debut fiction honor of the year, namingVincent Yu's "Seek Immediate Shelter" the winner of its 2026 Discover Prize.

Chosen after what the bookseller described as "much deliberation and debate" among booksellers nationwide, the novel stood out for its emotionally charged premise and its exploration of how ordinary people respond under extraordinary pressure.

The story begins with a terrifying emergency alert sent to every resident of a small Massachusetts town:

"BALLISTIC MISSILE THREAT INBOUND. SEEK IMMEDIATE SHELTER. THIS IS NOT A DRILL."

'Seek Immediate Shelter' is Barnes & Noble's 2026 Discover Prize winner.

Barnes & Noble

As panic spreads, neighbors, spouses, parents and children make split-second decisions they believe could be their last. Minutes later, a second notification arrives revealing the alert was a mistake. Relief quickly gives way to reckoning as each character must live with the consequences of choices made in what they believed were their final moments.

Barnes & Noble praised the novel as "a thought-provoking story of choice, connection, survival and self-discovery," calling it "a clever tale inspired by real events" and telling readers, "You won't be able to put this one down."

The inspiration came from the mistaken ballistic missile alert sent to Hawaii in 2018, an incident that left residents believing they had only minutes to live. In a guest essay for the Barnes & Noble blog, Yu explained that he became fascinated by what those impossible circumstances could reveal about human nature.

"How would I react if I thought I might die at any moment?" he wrote. "What would a person's reaction to such an alert say about them? And how would they need to reconcile their understanding of themselves once the alert was retracted?"

Originally conceived as a short story, the project eventually expanded into a novel featuring an ensemble cast in a fictional version of Yu's Western Massachusetts hometown. By following multiple characters over several years, the book explores how a single moment of crisis can permanently reshape relationships, identities and communities.

The novel has earned widespread praise from critics since its release. Library Journal awarded it a starred review and recommended it for readers who enjoy moral complexity, while Publishers Weekly called it "resonant" and praised Yu's ability to weave together multiple storylines. Kirkus described the debut as "quietly profound," and WBUR called it "achingly tender."

With Barnes & Noble's Discover Prize now added to that growing list of accolades, Seek Immediate Shelter has become one of the year's most celebrated debut novels.

Related: One of Barnes & Noble's Most Popular Events Returns This Week

It's not a countdown in Times Square without Andy Cohenand Anderson Cooper. The dynamic duo are returning to "the Crossroads of the World" to ring in America's 250th birthday. The national treasures, who have been hosting CNN's New Year's Eve Live together since 2017, will be continuing their tradition, this time, counting down to the Fourth of July on Independence Eve Live with Anderson & Andy: Celebrating 250.

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"We can't wait to do a summer countdown celebrating everything great about this country we love - all while drinking beer!" Cohen told Parade in a statement. "What could go wrong!?"

Before it's a party in the USA with Cohen and Cooper, here is everything to know about the pals' Independence Eve special, including how to watch, and why the New Years Eve ball will be dropping mid-year in Times Square.

When is Andy Cohen and Anderson Cooper's Independence Eve special?

The pair will be in Times Square for the broadcast on Independence Eve, a.k.a. July 3, 2026.

Related: Andy Cohen & Anderson Cooper on Friendship, Fatherhood and Surviving New Year’s Eve Live (Exclusive)

How to watch Andy Cohen and Anderson Cooper's Independence Eve special

The broadcast will air live on CNN. It will also be available for CNN’s streaming and pay TV subscribers via CNN.com, CNN connected TV and mobile apps.

What time is Andy Cohen and Anderson Cooper's Independence Eve special?

Independence Eve Live with Anderson & Andy will air from 8 p.m. ET through 12:30 a.m. ET.

Is there going to be a ball drop in Times Square for the 4th of July?

Yes! The Times Square ball will, in fact, be dropping the day before America's big birthday. America250 and One Times Square announced this past April that the ball, for the first time ever, will drop not once, but eight times to mark midnight in every American time zone.

"This is more than a countdown. It’s a moment that brings the entire country together, one time zone at a time," Rosie Rios, Chair of America250, previously said. "From Guam to New York to Alaska to American Samoa we are creating a shared experience where every American can see themselves in this celebration and be part of something bigger than any one city or moment."

Related: What’s the History of July 4th? 22 Surprising 4th of July Facts

When is the Times Square ball drop in July?

The first ball drop will be at 10 a.m. ET for the Chamorro Time Zone, followed later in the day by the New York City countdown at 11:59 p.m. ET. The ball will then drop an additional six times for the Central Time, Mountain Time, Pacific Time, Alaska Time, Hawaii-Aleutian Time zones and for American Samoa, which will be the final ball drop at 7 a.m.

Will there be guests on Andy Cohen and Anderson Cooper's Independence Eve special?

According to a press release, Cohen and Cooper will be joined by special guests, including "celebrated American icons, cultural legends, and inspiring everyday heroes whose stories reflect the spirit, resilience, and diversity of the United States."

Related: 50 Songs About America For Your July 4th Playlist

Will there be special CNN coverage on the Fourth of July?

While Cohen and Cooper will be counting down to America's milestone birthday on the eve of Independence Day, the network's programming will continue on July 4 with its special coverage of "unique events defining America’s 250th." CNN's The Fourth in America: Celebrating 250 starts at 12 p.m. ET on the Fourth of July with Brianna Keilar and Laura Coates anchoring from Washington, D.C. Anderson will be back on the air later in the day at 6 p.m., anchoring from Boston with Pamela Brown.

The Fourth in America: Celebrating 250 will feature the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, which CNN is the exclusive broadcast partner for, along with performances by Charlie Puth and Josh Groban from the Hard Rock Live at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida; Kane Brown from Cadott, Wisconsin; the Goo Goo Dolls from The Venetian Resort Las Vegas; Maren Morrisfrom the Majestic Theatre in Dallas, Texas; Rod Stewartfrom Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado; Lil Wayne, AJR, Kool & the Gang and Chaka Khan from BottleRock in Napa Valley, California.

CNN's Fourth of July coverage will additionally showcase firework displays from Boston, D.C., New York, Nashville, Philadelphia and more cities across the country.

Related: Macy's Just Made a Huge Change to Its 4th of July Fireworks for 2026