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NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Sunday, October 4, 2026
Today’s NYT Mini Crossword answers deal with everything from carving some powder to popular holiday songs as well as high-quality bed sheets and pet adoption.
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!
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 Sunday, October 4, 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!
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Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Sunday, October 4, 2026Here are additional clues for each of the words in today’s Mini Crossword.
NYT Mini Across Hints1 Across: Wine barrel — HINT: Ends with the letter “K”
5 Across: Leader of the Pussycats, in comics and film — HINT: Starts with the letter “J”
6 Across: In a nutshell — HINT: Starts with the letter “S”
7 Across: 2026 N.B.A. champions — HINT: Ends with the letter “S”
8 Across: Denial that sounds like 7-Across in Pig Latin — HINT: Starts with the letter “I”
Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours
NYT Mini Down Hints1 Down: “Santa Claus Is ___ to Town” (holiday hit) — HINT: Starts with the letter “C”
2 Down: Pet adoption org. — HINT: Ends with the letter “A”
3 Down: Like the texture of fine bedsheets — HINT: Starts with the letter “S”
4 Down: Bad things to leave locked in your house— HINT: Ends with the letter “S”
5 Down: “We said the same thing at the same time!” — HINT: Ends with the letter “X”
6 Down: Hit the slopes — HINT: Starts with the letter “S”
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: Wine barrel — CASK
5 Across: Leader of the Pussycats, in comics and film — JOSIE
6 Across: In a nutshell — SIMPLY
7 Across: 2026 N.B.A. champions — KNICKS
8 Across: Denial that sounds like 7-Across in Pig Latin — IXNAY
1 Down: “Santa Claus Is ___ to Town” (holiday hit) — COMIN’
2 Down: Pet adoption org. — ASPCA
3 Down: Like the texture of fine bedsheets — SLIKY
4 Down: Bad things to leave locked in your house— KEYS
5 Down: “We said the same thing at the same time!” — JINX
6 Down: Hit the slopes — SKI
Powerfully Moving Novel by Jodi Picoult Ranked an Instant No. 1 ‘New York Times’ Bestseller
American Author Jodi Picoult has had a wildly successful career as a writer. Starting all the way back in 1992, Picoult has published a new novel roughly every year since. Picoult’s work famously focuses on familial dynamic, the legal system, and current/relevant events often among a lot of drama and jaw-dropping twists.
Her newest book, Hollow Bones, marks her 30th novel published and was released on September 15th, 2026.
Hollow Bones was wildly anticipated by Picoult fans and readers leading up to its release. Upon publication, the novel was instantly successful, immediately taking the top spot on the New York Times bestseller list for new fiction.
In addition to the bestseller lists and commercial acclaim, over on the reading platform Goodreads, Hollow Bones is already a hit amongst users. On the site, the book holds a 4.5 out of 5-star rating, and already has almost 3,000 reviews in just under three weeks post-publication.
View this post on InstagramReaders on Goodreads have this to say about the newest book in Picoult’s bibliography:
“Some books stay with you long after you have finished reading them, and Hollow Bones by Jodi Picoult is definitely one of those books for me. It is an emotional and powerful story about love, family, motherhood, mental health, tragedy, and finding strength when life feels impossible.”
“This book, with its huge twist and important author’s note, is timely and critical, and I hope it falls into the hands of those who may need it the most.”
“This might honestly become one of my favorite literary fiction reads of the year, and considering how many phenomenal early releases I’ve been lucky enough to read lately, that says a lot.”
Hollow Bones follows emergency expert Molly Fitzgerald, whose mother passed away at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Even though Molly was only 2 months old at the time of the attack and her mother’s death, the tragedy left her with a debilitating fear of disasters and the unknown, shaping her professional trajectory. When Molly and her new husband Jesse are confronted with an unexpected upheaval to their new marriage, everything they thought they knew changes overnight. Oscillating between two timelines, Hollow Bones is a story of the lies we tell ourselves and the ways in which our worst moments shape and define us.
Hollow Bones is out now and available wherever books are sold.
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Highly Anticipated Adaptation of This Steinbeck Classic Is Now the No. 1 Newest Series on Netflix
In 1955, screenwriter and director Elia Kazan released his take on the classic familial saga originally published in 1952 by John Steinbeck, East of Eden. Now more than 74 years after the novel’s original publication and 72 years after the first film adaptation, Kazan’s granddaughter Zoe Kazan has penned and developed the newest version, which has been released exclusively on Netflix.
In 2022, it was announced that Kazan was adapting the American epic with directors Laure de Clermont-Tonnerre and Garth Davis. Very early on in the process, Academy Award-nominated actress Florence Pugh became attached to star in the series as the main character and anti-hero, Cathy Ames. Two years later, in 2024, actors Christopher Abbott, Mike Faist, and Hoon Lee joined the cast alongside Pugh.
Despite being set in the fertile Salinas Valley of Central California, production took place in October of 2024 in New Zealand. Filming wrapped in March of 2025.
East of Eden was one of the most anticipated series for 2026 for the streaming behemoth, with fans of the novel clamoring to see Pugh’s take on the infamous Cathy. The seven-episode mini-series premiered on Netflix on October 1st; by October 3rd, it was the platform’s top series.
Initial reception of the series overwhelmingly praised Pugh’s performance, with The A.V. Club calling it “one of her best.” On Rotten Tomatoes, the series holds an 86% certified fresh rating, and its Critics Consensus for the mini-series states, “East of Eden strains to swell its story to epic dimensions, but James Dean’s riveting performance gives this CinemaScope drama much of its raging heart.”
East of Eden is a sweeping, multi-generational story spanning decades, which follows the Trask family in a fictional retelling of the Biblical story of Cain and Abel. Brothers Adam and Charles grow up in California under the hand of their abusive father until his death, at which point they split a massive inheritance. When Adam marries the manipulative and dark Cathy Ames, he relocates his wife to the Salinas Valley, where she gives birth to twins before promptly abandoning them and shooting Adam to get away. Adam raises the twins, Aron and Cal, with the help of their Chinese-American chef Lee. Over the course of the novel and the years, the twins dynamic begins to mimic that of their father and uncle, and the story grapples with choice and the nature of where evil truly comes from.
East of Eden is now streaming exclusively on Netflix.
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Amazon Has a Pair of ‘Super Comfortable’ Fall-Ready DKNY Sneakers for 57% Off Pre-Prime Day
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Classic sneakers with a retro feel are having a moment this fall, making them an easy way to give everyday outfits a little throwback appeal. They’re also a simple swap for summer sandals when you want footwear that works with more of your fall wardrobe. If you’re looking for a pair of sneakers with Y2K flair, Amazon has plenty of styles to choose from that are made with everyday comfort and support in mind.
One standout is the DKNY Naples Lace Up Sneakers, which are currently 57% off at Amazon ahead of its Prime Big Deal Days event on Oct. 6 and 7. Normally retailing for $139, these lace-up sneakers are now marked down to as low as $59. They come in six colors, including black, light pink, bone, and white in both solid and logo-print designs. Prices vary by color and size, but you can snag any option for under $119.
DKNY Naples Lace Up Sneaker, From $59 (were $139) at Amazon Shop at AmazonThese sneakers bring a little archive-inspired style to everyday outfits with a round-toe silhouette, chunky sole, and metallic logo-print detailing. The jacquard upper is finished with faux-suede panels that add texture and dimension, giving the sneakers a slightly elevated look that pairs easily with fall staples like denim, knits, and sweatshirts.
Shoppers were impressed by more than just the sneakers’ stylish design. Reviews also highlighted the fit, comfort, and support. One reviewer said they “fit perfectly” and ran true to size, while another called them “super comfortable” and said the support was “amazing.” A third shopper praised their appearance and quality, writing, “Very stylish and nice quality!”
To keep these sneakers looking fresh, just wipe them clean with a damp cloth and spot-clean any marks as needed. The faux-suede panels do need a little extra care, so avoid moisture, heat, and rubbing those areas to help preserve their soft texture and maintain their appearance.
Shop More Deals- Clarks Cora Harbor Loafers, $55 (were $95) at Amazon
- Clarks BreezeSky Air Sneaker Flats, $43 (were $85) at Amazon
- Skechers Flexpadrille Lo So Chic Sandals, From $33 (were $55) at Amazon
At $59, these DKNY Naples Lace Up Sneakers are now less than half their original $139 price, making them a budget-friendly way to add a retro-inspired pair to your fall shoe rotation. Snag a pair now while they’re 57% off ahead of Prime Big Deal Days, happening Oct. 6 and 7!
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'Days of our Lives' Fan Favorites Reunite in Vegas Ahead of On-Screen Exits
While Carson Boatman may no longer be filming at Days of our Lives, that doesn’t mean that he has left his DiMera family behind, as the actor recently reunited with co-star Dan Feuerriegel. in a location befitting the villainous family, with a trip to Sin City
Boatman posted photos of the reunion on Instagram, captioning the post, “Sometimes, it’s good to put your differences aside. Johnny and EJ take Vegas!”
View this post on InstagramThe photos showed Boatman and Feuerriegel hanging out in a casino, appearing to drink and play slots.
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In the comment section, former Days of our Lives star Bryan Dattilo (Ex-Lucas Horton) jokingly commented, “Breaking news. Exposed. A real-life love affair. Details in your last issue of the National Enquirer.”
Fans shared in the excitement of the moment. One user wrote in the comments, “❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️my favorite father son duo🔥🔥🔥🔥,” while a second fan added, “Oh i love this. Looks like so much fun.”
Earlier this year, it was announced that Boatman, along with his co-stars Raven Bowens (Chanell Dupree), Leo Howard (Tate Black), and Ashley Puzemis (Holly Jonas), were all let go from the Peacock soap opera. Despite filming their final scenes months ago, the four actors continue to appear on Days of our Lives, with their final episodes expected in the coming months.
Boatman joined the cast of Days of our Lives in 2021 and has since, according to IMDb, appeared in over 450 episodes of the daytime drama.
The actor’s professional acting career began in 2014 with an appearance on the film Devlish Charm as Clark.
In addition to his final episodes of Days of our Lives, Boatman has three additional projects in various stages of final production, including The Dinner Table, Off the Court, and Killing Myself for the Industry.
The actor also has a music career, both as a solo artist and as a member of The Day Players with some of his former Days of our Lives co-stars.
Brand new episodes of Days of our Lives air weekdays exclusively on Peacock.
'I Don't Feel the Need to Apologize': Jeremy Strong Defends His Intense On-Set Process
Jeremy Strong will not apologize for his controversial process.
The 47-year-old actor defended his dedication to method acting on a recent episode of The New Yorker Radio Hour podcast.
Strong stars as billionaire and co-founder of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg, in Aaron Sorkin’s The Social Reckoning. The actor discussed how he got into character and how his process affects everyone else on set.
“I think I can’t really speak to that,” the Succession said. “Of course, it is never my intention to interfere with anyone else’s experience or anyone else’s way of working. First, do no harm, right? But commit to fucking what you’re doing, and utterly.”
Stong continued, “So, if some people feel that I’m taking it too seriously, or it changes the molecules in the room in a way that makes something uncomfortable, I guess that’s something that I don’t feel that I need to apologize for, because I believe, and I think the directors that I work with all believe, that it’s in service of the material, and I personally think that a lot of the reactions to it are of a personal nature.”
The A-lister has faced backlash for his method acting in recent months after Sorkin told The New York Times that Strong was interacting with his coworkers “the way he imagines Mark treats the people around him.” This meant not “hanging out with you at craft service” or “yucking it up with you between takes.” The director added, “He’s probably not going to speak to you at all.”
The Social Reckoning stars Strong, Jeremy Allen White, Mikey Madison, Bill Burr, Betty Gilpin, and Billy Magnusse. It hits theaters Oct. 9.
Jaclyn Smith, 80, Morgan Fairchild, 76, and Donna Mills, 85, Are Ageless in Rare Reunion Photos
Some of the screen’s most legendary stars united for a night of friendship, philanthropy, and nostalgia selfies. Jaclyn Smith, Morgan Fairchild, Donna Mills, and so many more converged in Dallas, Texas, for the Farrah Fawcett Foundation’s Tex-Mex Fiesta, an annual fundraiser benefiting cancer research and patient support.
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In a video of images posted to Instagram, Fairchild and her friends smile, pose, and support a cause dear to their hearts. The event celebrated the legacy of the late Texas-born actress, who died of cancer in 2009, and benefits Stand Up To Cancer and the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge in Dallas.
View this post on Instagram The 2026 Fiesta Marked a Major Milestone for Farrah FawcettThe most recent event took place on Sept. 24, 2026, at The Rustic in Dallas, marking the 50th anniversaries of both Fawcett’s iconic red swimsuit poster and her starring role as Jill Munroe on Charlie’s Angels.
Chuck Steelman chaired the evening, with Alana Stewart, Jaclyn Smith, and Donna Mills serving as co-chairs and Katy and Lawrence Bock as honorary chairs. Smith’s presence was particularly poignant given her decades-long friendship with Fawcett.
Smith recently reflected on her late Charlie’s Angels costar in an excerpt from her new memoir, writing simply, “I miss her to this day.”
The actress also reflected on the enduring bond she, Fawcett, and Kate Jackson shared during their years on Charlie’s Angels, describing their friendship as a gift.
The 2026 Fiesta included margaritas, mariachi, a Tex-Mex dinner, an awards presentation, a live auction, and a performance by country duo Big & Rich. Desperate Housewives star and cancer survivor Marcia Cross received the foundation’s Angel Award.
Jaclyn Smith, Morgan Fairchild, and Donna Mills Were Among the Famous FacesThe star-studded guest list included Smith, Mills, Fairchild, Linda Gray, Sheree J. Wilson, Andrew Stevens, Charlene Tilton, and others.
For fans of classic television, the gathering offered a particularly nostalgic snapshot, bringing together stars whose careers helped define some of the biggest shows of the 1970s, ’80s, and ’90s.
And, as the photos from the evening show, these longtime Hollywood friends still know how to make a red carpet—and a selfie—memorable.
The Event Continues Farrah Fawcett’s Cancer-Fighting LegacyFawcett established her foundation after her 2006 diagnosis with anal cancer, and its mission continues to focus on innovative HPV-related cancer research, prevention education, and patient advocacy.
The Tex-Mex Fiesta began in Los Angeles in 2015 before moving to Dallas. The 2026 gathering was therefore more than a nostalgic Hollywood reunion. It was another way for Fawcett’s friends and supporters to keep her legacy and her commitment to cancer research alive.
AI Security Camera Alerts Explained: Person vs. Vehicle vs. Package Detection
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A security camera that sends an alert every time a tree moves in the wind or a car passes the house quickly becomes difficult to use. AI-powered cameras address that problem by analyzing motion and identifying what caused it. Instead of treating every movement as equally important, intelligent detection can distinguish people, vehicles, animals and packages.
For homeowners asking, “What’s the best security camera?”, AI detection is worth evaluating alongside image quality, night vision, recording options and installation. The goal is simple: receive useful notifications without sorting through a stream of irrelevant ones.
Need help choosing cameras for your property? An ADT professional can provide a free quote and inspection based on your home’s layout and security needs.
AI motion detection analyzes changes in a camera’s video feed and uses computer-vision models to classify what is moving. Instead of simply detecting movement, an intelligent camera can determine whether the activity involves a person, vehicle, animal or package and apply rules to decide whether an alert should be sent.
Traditional motion detection essentially asks: Did something move? AI detection asks a more useful question: What moved, and where did it move?
The process generally involves:
- Detecting movement in the camera’s field of view.
- Analyzing the visual information to identify an object.
- Classifying the object as a person, vehicle, animal or another supported category.
- Applying user-defined rules to determine whether the event triggers an alert.
Some newer cameras perform at least part of this analysis directly on the device. ADT’s current Google Nest Cam Indoor, for example, uses on-device machine learning to distinguish between people, animals and vehicles. Processing information locally is an example of edge computing, which can reduce the need to send all video data to a remote system for analysis.
What is person detection on a security camera?Person detection uses AI to identify human activity in a camera’s view and distinguish it from other types of motion. Homeowners can use it to receive alerts when someone enters a monitored area, such as a porch, driveway or backyard.
This is more specific than basic motion detection. A conventional motion sensor might react to a person walking across the yard, a large animal or moving vegetation. AI-based detection adds object classification to the event.
ADT’s Pro cameras use video analytics that recognize people, vehicles and animals. Homeowners can also establish ground zones and virtual tripwires that determine where activity should trigger an alert.
That allows a homeowner to focus on a particular area rather than the entire camera frame. For example, a camera overlooking a front porch can be configured around the area where someone would approach the door.
Related: The Best Floodlight Security Cameras for Driveways
Vehicle detection identifies vehicles and lets homeowners create rules around areas such as driveways. This is useful when a camera also captures a public street where passing traffic would otherwise create repeated motion events.
ADT specifically recommends avoiding camera views with constant movement, including streets with frequent traffic and trees that continually move in the wind. Its video analytics guide also recommends keeping tripwires and ground zones away from those sources of motion.
That means AI isn’t a substitute for thoughtful camera placement. A camera pointed directly at a busy road may still generate unnecessary activity, even with object detection.
If your current cameras generate too many notifications, an ADT professional can assess camera placement and recommend equipment during a free quote and inspection.
How does package detection work?Package detection identifies delivered packages and can send a notification when a delivery is detected in a monitored area. It is designed primarily for cameras positioned near front doors, porches and other delivery locations.
ADT’s current camera offerings include object detection for people, packages and vehicles. Compatible Google Nest cameras integrated with ADT also provide intelligent alerts for people, packages, animals and vehicles.
For homeowners who regularly receive deliveries while away, package detection provides more information than a generic motion notification. Instead of simply saying that motion occurred, the system can identify the type of event that triggered the alert.
Person vs. Vehicle vs. Package Detection: What’s the Difference?AI detection categories serve different purposes depending on where a camera is installed.
Detection type
What it identifies
Common camera location
Person
Human activity
Front door, yard, driveway
Vehicle
Cars and other vehicles
Driveway, garage, property entrance
Package
Delivered packages
Front porch, entryway
Animal
Pets and other animals
Yard, patio, interior
The right combination depends on the camera’s location. A driveway camera may benefit from person and vehicle detection, while a front-door camera may benefit more from person and package alerts.
Related: Video Doorbell or Spotlight Camera? Which Should You Buy First?
AI cameras reduce unnecessary alerts by combining object classification with rules that restrict which events trigger notifications. Activity zones, tripwires and minimum object-size settings help prevent movement from trees, traffic and other irrelevant sources from generating repeated alerts.
AI detection isn’t perfect. Lighting, weather, camera angle, distance and obstructions can affect detection performance. ADT recommends positioning its Pro cameras at specific heights and angles and keeping monitored targets within appropriate distances for more reliable analytics.
That makes installation an important part of the equation. A highly capable camera pointed at the wrong part of the property can still produce poor results.
What should you look for in an AI security camera?When comparing cameras, look beyond resolution. The most useful features depend on how and where you plan to use the system.
- Object detection: Look for the ability to distinguish people, vehicles, animals and packages.
- Activity zones: These let you limit detection to specific areas.
- Custom alerts: Choose which types of activity generate notifications.
- Night vision: AI detection still depends on the camera’s ability to capture usable video in low light.
- Video history: Recorded clips make it easier to investigate an alert after it occurs.
- Reliable connectivity: Intelligent cameras depend on a functioning network for many features and services.
ADT’s current Google Nest cameras offer intelligent alerts, while ADT Pro cameras use video analytics with configurable ground zones and tripwires. ADT also offers professional installation for compatible systems, which can help ensure cameras are positioned for the areas homeowners actually want to monitor.
The best security camera isn’t necessarily the one with the highest resolution or the longest feature list. For many homeowners, accurate detection and useful alerts are just as important because they determine whether the camera provides actionable information or a constant stream of notifications.
Ready to evaluate your home’s camera coverage? Schedule a free ADT quote and inspection to discuss camera placement, intelligent alerts and other security options for your property.
Beloved Daytime Emmy Winner Teases Soap Opera Comeback
Daytime Emmy winner Cady McClain has taken to social media to tease that fans will see her on-screen again “very soon,” with a few behind-the-scenes photos to set the mood.
McClain took to Instagram to let viewers know that fans of her portrayal of Pamela Curtis on the CBS daytime soap opera Beyond the Gates will be back on your screens very soon! @beyondthegatescbs 💫.”
View this post on InstagramMcClain joined the cast as Pamela Curtis, Dani Dupree (Karla Mosley)’s business partner and best friend from the beginning of the show, making her first appearance at the end of the soap’s first week, in Episode 5, airing on February 28, 2025.
Since then, McClain has made sporadic appearances on the soap opera. According to IMDb, the Daytime Emmy winner has appeared in approximately 26 episodes since her initial debut.
McClain previously teased filming additional episodes earlier this year.
Fans ReactFans took to McClain’s comment section to share their support for the actress and her impending return. One user wrote, “Absolutely breathtaking and you have gorgeous hair and complexion and smile and makeup. Can’t wait to see you back on Beyond the Gates. I hope they put you in the spotlight where you should always be. Love it.”
A second fan commented on McClain’s appearance, sharing, “Great look for Pamela! Love the hair! And I love everything about BTG! 👏”
While a third viewer added encouragingly, “Makeup… no make up…Dress up… dress down… You, Cady McClain, REMAIN Sexy.”
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In addition to her role on Beyond the Gates, McClain began her daytime career on the ABC soap opera All My Children, where she portrayed Dixie Cooney, and made appearances on As the World Turns, The Young and the Restless, and Days of our Lives.
New episodes of Beyond the Gates air on CBS weekdays and stream on Paramount+ weeknights. Viewers can catch up on all of the drama from the beginning of the show on Paramount+, Tubi, and PlutoTV’s dedicated 24/7 Beyond the Gates FAST channel.
Low-E vs. Argon Gas: Which Window Upgrade Saves More Energy?
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When you’re shopping for energy-efficient windows, two upgrades appear frequently: Low-E glass coatings and argon gas fills. Both can improve thermal performance, but they work in different ways.
Low-E is a microscopically thin coating that changes how the glass handles radiant heat. Argon is an inert gas placed between panes to reduce heat transfer through the insulating space. Renewal by Andersen‘s product guidance notes that both features can improve performance, while its technical materials indicate that Low-E coatings generally provide a larger thermal benefit than argon gas alone.
Comparing window options now? You can get a free custom quote from Renewal by Andersen to see how different glass packages could fit your home’s energy needs.
Low-E stands for low emissivity. The coating is designed to reflect radiant heat while allowing visible light to pass through. Depending on the coating and climate, Low-E glass can help keep indoor heat inside during colder weather and limit unwanted solar heat during warmer weather.
That makes Low-E a versatile component of an energy-efficient window. The specific coating matters, though. Different Low-E products can be designed to admit more or less solar heat, which affects their SHGC rating.
ENERGY STAR notes that window performance requirements vary by climate zone, so homeowners should evaluate the complete window according to where they live rather than selecting a technology in isolation.
How does argon gas improve window performance?Argon is an inert gas fill placed between panes of insulated glass. It has lower thermal conductivity than air, which can reduce heat transfer through the space between the panes.
Renewal by Andersen describes argon gas blends as an improvement over air fills but notes that their contribution to thermal performance is smaller than the benefit provided by Low-E coating. Argon, therefore, works as part of a larger insulating system. It is most relevant in double- and triple-pane windows where there is a sealed space between the glass layers.
Related: Low-E Window Glass: How It Can Reduce UV Damage to Floors and Furniture
The easiest way to understand the two upgrades is to look at what each one controls.
Feature
Low-E coating
Argon gas
Where it is
Applied to glass
Between glass panes
Primary role
Controls radiant heat
Slows conductive heat transfer
Summer benefit
Can reduce unwanted solar heat
Reduces heat transfer through the glazing space
Winter benefit
Helps reflect indoor heat back inside
Helps insulate between panes
Works with
Double- and triple-pane glass
Insulated multi-pane glass
The technologies are not competing alternatives in many modern windows. They are commonly used together.
NFRC-certified product data illustrates this point. Certified window configurations can combine Low-E glass with argon fills and receive whole-window U-factor ratings reflecting the performance of the complete assembly.
Which saves more energy: Low-E or argon?Low-E generally has the greater impact when comparing the two upgrades individually, but the exact energy performance depends on the entire window configuration. Renewal by Andersen‘s technical materials specifically state that argon can improve thermal performance on a smaller scale compared with Low-E coating.
That doesn’t make argon unnecessary. A well-designed insulated window can use Low-E coatings, argon, multiple panes, appropriate spacing, and an insulating frame as parts of one system.
ENERGY STAR does not require one specific technology. Instead, certified windows must meet NFRC-based performance requirements for their applicable climate zone.
For homeowners, that means comparing the NFRC U-factor and SHGC of the complete window can be more useful than trying to assign a fixed energy-saving value to one feature.
Related: Selecting Replacement Windows for High Sun Exposure Rooms
Yes. A window’s ideal solar performance depends partly on whether your home needs to limit solar heat or take advantage of it.
In warmer, sunny climates, a Low-E coating with an appropriate SHGC can help reduce unwanted solar heat entering the home. In colder climates, the right Low-E configuration can help retain interior heat while managing solar gain.
Argon remains useful across climates because its role is primarily to improve insulation between panes. Your window orientation matters, too. A heavily shaded north-facing window may have different performance priorities from a large, unshaded south- or west-facing window.
If you’re replacing older windows, schedule a free consultation with Renewal by Andersen to compare glass packages and understand how their certified performance applies to your home.
For most homeowners buying modern energy-efficient windows, the question is less about choosing one and more about selecting a well-balanced window assembly.
A practical comparison should include:
- U-factor: Lower values indicate less heat transfer.
- SHGC: Shows how much solar heat enters through the window.
- Low-E coating: Helps control radiant heat and can affect SHGC.
- Gas fill: Argon can improve insulation between glass panes.
- Number of panes: Double- and triple-pane designs provide multiple insulating layers.
- Frame: Frame materials and construction also contribute to whole-window performance.
- Installation: Air leakage around a poorly installed window can undermine its performance.
ENERGY STAR reports that certified residential windows can reduce household heating and cooling energy costs compared with noncertified products, while emphasizing that the appropriate performance criteria depend on climate zone.
What should you ask a window contractor?Ask for the NFRC-certified performance ratings of the exact window configuration you’re considering. A contractor should be able to explain the U-factor, SHGC, glass package, gas fill, and frame construction.
Questions to bring to your consultation include:
- Does this window use Low-E glass?
- What type of Low-E coating is included?
- Is the insulating space filled with argon?
- What is the whole-window U-factor?
- What is the SHGC?
- Is the configuration ENERGY STAR certified for my climate zone?
Renewal by Andersen
Professional window replacement from Renewal by Andersen can help you save money on your utility bills.
Which window upgrade is the better investment?Low-E and argon serve different purposes, and they often work together rather than compete. If you had to compare the two upgrades individually, Low-E generally contributes more to thermal performance than an argon fill alone. But the most meaningful comparison is the complete window’s NFRC ratings, not one feature in isolation.
Ready to replace inefficient windows? Schedule a free consultation with Renewal by Andersen to get a quote tailored to your home’s energy needs.
Walmart’s $83 Nightstands Are a Clever Bedside Upgrade With Plenty of Storage and Built-In Charging
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The best nightstands do more than give you a place to set your lamp. The right one can keep your nighttime essentials organized while also giving you an easy place to charge your phone, smartwatch, or other devices before bed. Add in useful storage for things like glasses, remotes, books, and journals, and a nightstand can quietly make your entire bedtime routine a little easier.
If you’re looking for a matching pair, the Galaxhero Set of 2 Nightstands is a value-packed option. Right now, the set is on sale for 39% off at Walmart, bringing the price down from $137 to just $83. That works out to a little over $40 per nightstand, making it an affordable way to add matching storage and charging stations to your bedroom.
Galaxhero Set of 2 Nightstands, $83 (was $137) at Walmart Shop at WalmartEach nightstand has a built-in charging hub with two standard AC outlets and two USB ports, so you can charge several devices at the same time without having to hunt for an open wall outlet. A 4.9-foot power cord gives you some flexibility when positioning the tables, while the built-in setup helps keep charging cables closer to where you actually need them instead of scattered across the room.
There’s plenty of room for storage, too. Each table has two smooth-gliding drawers for keeping smaller belongings tucked away, plus an open shelf for books, baskets, or anything else you want within easy reach. The spacious top gives you room for a lamp, alarm clock, decor, or your current nighttime essentials, while sleek metal handles add a polished finishing touch.
Each nightstand measures 23.6 inches tall by 15.8 inches long and 13.8 inches wide, giving you useful storage without taking up a huge amount of floor space. Assembly is also designed to be straightforward, with numbered pieces, clear instructions, and the necessary tools included. The manufacturer says setup can take 30 minutes or less, so you won’t have to spend your entire afternoon putting them together.
The set comes in four neutral finishes: black, dark brown, greige, and white. The scratch-resistant engineered wood is easy to wipe clean and can support up to 44 pounds, making it sturdy enough for everyday use. And you’re not limited to the bedroom — the tables can also work as living room side tables, guest room accents, or compact storage and charging stations in a home office.
Shoppers praised the bestselling set for its practical design and easy setup. One reviewer said it’s “easy to build,” adding that they “love the outlets on top.” Another shopper highlighted the “easy drawer slides,” writing, “They’re really nice — the drawer is big and very spacious and the shelf is nice.”
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If you want a nightstand set that combines charging, storage, and a versatile look in one compact package, the Galaxhero Set of 2 Nightstands is a practical choice. And with Walmart’s current 39% discount, you can get the matching pair for just $83 and save $54 on a set designed to make your everyday routine a little more convenient.
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Gypsy Rose Blanchard Revealed the One Thing She Wanted If She Married Ken Urker Before His Death
Gypsy Rose Blanchard knew exactly what she wanted if she and Ken Urker ever decided to walk down the aisle.
Just months before Urker’s sudden death at 34, Blanchard, 35, opened up about the couple’s future during a May appearance on The TMZ Podcast. Although marriage wasn’t necessarily a given, she said that if it did happen, she wanted the full wedding experience—especially after the unusual circumstances surrounding her first marriage.
“I don’t want to have a quickie wedding. I want to have the big wedding,” Blanchard said when asked if an elopement was a possibility. “I want to have the poofy dress.”
One thing that appeared particularly important to her was having loved ones there to celebrate. “I want to have the family there,” she explained, “because my first marriage, I got married in the visitation room by the bathroom of a prison…I deserve my wedding.”
Blanchard married ex-husband Ryan Anderson while serving her prison sentence in 2022. She and Urker, meanwhile, had a long history together after initially becoming engaged while she was incarcerated and later reconnecting following her separation from Anderson.
The pair never made it down the aisle. Urker was found dead in his Louisiana home on Thursday, October 1, his 34th birthday.
In that same podcast, Blanchard revealed that she didn’t feel any pressure from Urker to get married. “We don’t pressure each other, but I feel the world does,” she explained. “And it kind of sucks, because what happens if we are one of those couples that, you know, we don’t want to get married right away?”
Shortly after Urker’s death, Blanchard honored Urker on social media, writing, “You will always be my greatest love story. You will be remembered and loved forever. ❤️”
The tribute also included a rare video of Urker with their daughter, Aurora. Although a filter placed animal ears over the little girl’s head, much of her face was visible—something fans noted contradicted how Blanchard had previously handled her daughter’s privacy online.
READ MORE: Gypsy Rose Blanchard Makes Surprising Decision About Daughter After Ken Urker’s Death
After Aurora’s birth, Blanchard said she would not post photos of her face, explaining that she and Urker valued their daughter’s “privacy and safety.” As recently as August, she shared footage of Aurora with her face blurred.
As for Urker’s cause of death, authorities reportedly discovered drug paraphernalia and a brown powder substance at the scene, according to TMZ. An autopsy has been completed, but an official cause remains pending.
Related: Gypsy Rose Blanchard’s Relationship History: From Nicholas Godejohn to Ken Urker
People Who Use This 1 Phrase in High-Stress Situations Have Abnormally High EQ, Says Psychologist
We’ve all been there: your heart is racing, your inbox is exploding and a sudden change of plans throws your entire day into absolute chaos. In moments of intense stress or conflict, our instinctual brain often takes the steering wheel. Some people lash out with biting comments, while others completely shut down, retreating behind a wall of passive aggressiveness or radio silence.
However, amid the storm of elevated heart rates and high tension, a particular group of people responds with astonishing calm and clarity. Instead of pointing fingers, assigning blame or spiraling into helpless overwhelm, they pause, take a breath and utter one specific type of phrase. According to mental health professionals, individuals who consistently use “I feel…” phrases under pressure possess an abnormally high emotional intelligence, also known as emotional quotient (EQ).
It sounds almost too simple to be true. How can two small words hold so much power in the middle of a crisis?
The magic lies in what happens behind the scenes in our brain when stress hits. High-stress situations trigger a fight-or-flight response, pushing us to act reactively rather than intentionally. When a person pauses to articulate their emotional state by starting a sentence with “I feel,” they are actively bridging the gap between raw emotion and cognitive processing. They aren’t running from the tension—they are taking ownership of their experience and steering the conversation toward a constructive solution.
Why Using ‘I Feel’ Statements Displays Superior Emotional IntelligenceEmotional intelligence isn’t about hiding your feelings or remaining completely unflappable 24/7. It’s about recognizing, understanding and managing your emotions effectively, even when the pressure is on.
When someone relies on an “I feel” phrase—such as, “I feel overwhelmed because the schedule changed unexpectedly, and I need a moment to reprioritize”—they demonstrate two critical components of EQ: self-awareness and self-regulation.
In a previous Parade piece on phrases that mean you have high emotional intelligence, Dr. Melanie McNally—clinical psychologist and author of The Emotionally Intelligent Teen—highlighted that this specific phrasing is a hallmark of high EQ because it focuses on the speaker: what they’re feeling, why they’re feeling it and what they might need. As long as you don’t use this kind of phrase to place blame or feelings on someone else, you’re truly just focusing on yourself.
An acceptable example she gave is: “I feel overwhelmed because the kitchen is such a mess. I would like it if you could help me clean it.”
“This shows high emotional intelligence because the person is articulating what they’re feeling and then doing something about it,” she shared at the time. “In contrast, someone with low emotional intelligence might avoid the kitchen because it’s too overwhelming without realizing why (low self-awareness), or they might make passive-aggressive or overtly aggressive comments to others about what slobs they are (lack of self-regulation).”
Related: 4 Social Habits That Show Low Emotional Intelligence, According to a Psychologist
When stress rises, low-EQ responses usually focus outward on accusations, such as “You always mess up the schedule” or “You’re driving me crazy.” By pivoting to an “I feel” statement, high-EQ individuals prevent the other person from immediately going on the defensive, keeping the door open for collaborative problem-solving.
Additionally, as noted in Parade‘s article on emotional intelligence phrases, Dr. Veronica Hlivnenko, a licensed psychologist, explained that people with high EQ are deeply tuned into their present-moment experiences.
“People with high EQ clearly know what emotions they are experiencing at the very moment,” she shared. “They perceive and accept them and are not afraid to openly communicate them. It makes the conversation more honest and productive, especially when talking to someone whose EQ is still developing.”
They’re able to handle both “good” and “bad” feelings.
“Emotionally intelligent people know that accepting negative emotion makes it easier and faster to get over it, and the [perception] of a positive emotion helps prolong the pleasure from it,” she said.
How To Practice ‘I Feel’ Phrases When Tensions Are HighIf turning toward self-expression during a conflict doesn’t come naturally to you, don’t worry; EQ is a skill that can be built with practice. The next time you feel your stress levels spiking, try this three-part formula:
- State the emotion: Start directly with “I feel [emotion]” (e.g., anxious, frustrated, overwhelmed).
- Identify the trigger: Add “because [specific situation]” without attaching character judgments to others.
- Express the need: Finish with “I would like [actionable request or boundary]”.
By mastering this simple phrase structure, you can transform high-stress moments into opportunities for connection, clarity and true emotional leadership.
Adapted from Parade’s “If You Use These 3 Phrases, You Have Higher Emotional Intelligence Than Most, Psychologists Say” by Shelby Deering and “16 Things People With High Emotional Intelligence Often Say, According to Psychologists” by Beth Ann Mayer
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Sources:- Dr. Melanie McNally is a clinical psychologist and author of The Emotionally Intelligent Teen.
- Dr. Veronica Hlivnenko is a licensed psychologist.
‘East of Eden’ Creator Zoe Kazan Has a Surprising Family Connection to 1955 Film
East of Eden is currently the No. 1 show on Netflix, but did you know creator Zoe Kazan has a surprising family connection to the 1955 film adaptation?
Zoe, who is also the showrunner and a writer on the historical drama miniseries starring Florence Pugh, Christopher Abbott, and Mike Faist, is the granddaughter of Elia Kazan, the director of the 1955 film of the same name starring James Dean.
Elia, who is best known for directing Death of a Salesman and A Streetcar Named Desire, was a good friend of author John Steinbeck when he directed the first adaptation of the iconic novel. In fact, Elia’s name appears in journals Steinbeck kept while writing East of Eden.
At the time of the film’s 1955 release, it received rave reviews from critics, with Elia and Dean earning nominations for Best Director and Best Actor, respectively, at the 1956 Academy Awards.
In an interview with New York Magazine, Zoe revealed that she first read the 1952 novel when she was just 15 and immediately felt a sense of ownership over the story.
“Long before I ever started the process of adapting this … I was like, That one belongs to me,” she said.
Shortly after discovering East of Eden and Steinbeck’s other novels, Zoe’s parents gifted her a trip up the California coast, including a stop at Steinbeck’s hometown of Salinas, where the majority of East of Eden takes place.
“It’s concrete. You know, it’s a town very changed by time,” she said, noting that the town was different from what she had imagined based on the book’s description.
Zoe also recalled watching her father listen to recordings of Steinbeck’s voice in the museum dedicated to the author and being moved by how much the experience meant to her family.
Years later, she read about another East of Eden project in the works—a film version with Jennifer Lawrence attached to star—that never came to fruition.
“Oh, it’s not how I would do it,” Zoe recalls telling her partner, actor Paul Dano, noting that she had always envisioned the story as a series.
She then wrote to her agents, “Ugh. This is so annoying, but, like, if the rights to East of Eden ever come up, can you let me know? I’d really like to pitch on it.”
That dream came true in 2019, when her agent texted her that a production company had the rights to the book and needed someone to adapt it into a show that would focus more on Pugh’s character, Cathy Ames.
“You interested?” her agent wrote.
She texted back, “YES YES YES YES YES. THIS IS MY DREAM. LET ME DO THIS. THIS IS MY FAVORITE BOOK.”
East of Eden is currently streaming on Netflix.
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Tom Cruise Says He Is 'So Proud' of 'Digger' Following Film's Disappointing Debut
Though critics have dug into Digger, Tom Cruise has swooped in to defend his new film. After the movie’s theatrical premiere, Cruise took to social media on Saturday morning to express his pride and gratitude for working on the project with its cast and crew.
“DIGGER is officially in theaters and I am so honored to have had the opportunity to create this film alongside such talented artists,” Cruise wrote on X. “Thank you to the entire cast and crew for your dedication, hard work, and joy. The experience was truly unforgettable and I’m so proud of what we created.”
DIGGER is officially in theaters and I am so honored to have had the opportunity to create this film alongside such talented artists. Thank you to the entire cast and crew for your dedication, hard work, and joy. The experience was truly unforgettable and I’m so proud of what we… pic.twitter.com/3YBblCnL3E
— Tom Cruise (@TomCruise) October 3, 2026Directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Alejandro G. Iñárritu (Birdman, The Revenant), Digger stars Cruise as a wealthy oil tycoon whose drilling dislodges an ice shelf from a glacier, causing a global environmental catastrophe. The movie was marketed as a major cinematic event, with Cruise leading an all-star cast including Riz Ahmed, John Goodman, Sandra Hüller, Michael Stuhlbarg, Jesse Plemons, Emma D’Arcy, and Sophie Wilde.
However, the movie premiered to mixed reviews, earning a “Rotten” 51% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Despite Cruise’s massive star power, Digger is expected to make $8 million in its opening weekend, making it the actor’s worst opening since 2007, according to Deadline. Since the film’s production cost at least $125 million, it is expected to bomb at the box office.
Tom Cruise poses upon arrival for the global premiere of the film ‘Digger.’Despite this, Digger has embraced its divisive nature in its marketing. One recent ad boldly quoted both positive and negative reviews of the film, with Cruise’s character saying, “F–k those people.” In the end, the ad encouraged audiences to see Digger for themselves and decide for themselves whether it’s a good movie. Whether this will improve the film’s box office performance remains to be seen.
100 'I' Middle Names for Boys and Girls With a Fresh, Polished Feel
Some letters naturally bring a certain rhythm to a name, and “I” has plenty of range. Short choices like Ivy, Ida and Ira can add a break between longer first and last names, while Isabella, Iphigenia and Immanuel have enough presence to make the middle spot stand out on its own.
There’s also much more variety here than the letter might initially suggest. “I” names can draw from Hebrew, Greek, Arabic, Sanskrit, Welsh, Scandinavian, African and other naming traditions, which opens the door to everything from familiar favorites to choices rarely heard in the United States.
Current naming data backs up the lasting appeal of the letter, too. The Social Security Administration compiles its annual baby-name rankings from Social Security card applications submitted for newborns. In its latest rankings for babies born in 2025, Isabella was the seventh-most-popular girls’ name nationwide.
For parents considering an “I” in the middle, the 100 ideas below are divided evenly between girls and boys, with the origin and meaning of each name included.
Related: 205 Beautiful Middle Names for Girls To Help Complete Her Full Name
- Isabella — A form of Elizabeth with Hebrew roots, it is traditionally interpreted as “my God is an oath.” Its four syllables give it an elegant, flowing sound.
- Isla — This Scottish name is associated with the island of Islay off Scotland’s western coast. Although its spelling resembles the Spanish word for “island,” the two have separate origins.
- Ivy — Taken directly from the evergreen climbing plant, this English botanical name carries strong nature associations.
- Iris — Greek for “rainbow,” it was also the name of the rainbow goddess in Greek mythology. The colorful iris flower adds another well-known association.
- Imani — From the Swahili word for “faith,” it has a strong, uplifting meaning and a smooth three-syllable sound.
- Ingrid — Derived from the Old Norse Ingfríðr, it combines the name of the Germanic god Ing with an element associated with beauty.
- Irene — From the Greek eirēnē, meaning “peace.” In Greek mythology, Eirene was the personification of peace.
- Imogen — Best known through Shakespeare’s Cymbeline, this literary name likely developed from an earlier form, Innogen. Its deeper etymology remains uncertain.
- India — Taken from the name of the country, which ultimately derives from the Indus River. The river’s name traces back to the Sanskrit Sindhu.
- Indira — Sanskrit in origin, it is associated with beauty and splendor and is also used as a name for the Hindu goddess Lakshmi.
- Ines — The Spanish and Portuguese form of Agnes, it ultimately comes from Greek and is traditionally associated with “pure” or “chaste.”
- Ida — Germanic in origin, this compact traditional name is commonly linked to an element associated with “work” or “labor.”
- Isadora — Greek in origin, it means “gift of Isis,” referring to the ancient Egyptian goddess Isis.
- Isolde — Famous from the medieval legend of Tristan and Isolde, this ancient name has uncertain Germanic or Celtic origins.
- Ilaria — The Italian feminine form of Hilarius, it traces back to the Latin hilaris, meaning “cheerful” or “merry.”
- Ilona — The Hungarian form of Helen, it has a long history in Hungary and surrounding countries. The deeper origin of Helen itself remains debated.
- Iona — Taken from the Scottish island of Iona, a place with centuries of religious and historical importance.
- Ianthe — Greek in origin, it combines elements meaning “violet” and “flower.” The botanical meaning gives it an elegant connection to nature.
- Irma — Germanic roots connect it to an element meaning “whole,” “great” or “universal.”
- Iskra — From a Slavic word meaning “spark.” Its bright, energetic meaning is matched by its crisp two-syllable sound.
- Inaya — Arabic in origin, it means “care,” “concern” or “attention.” The meaning gives it an especially gentle quality.
- Inara — This ancient name has more than one possible cultural association. In Hittite mythology, Inara was a goddess connected with the wild and the natural world.
- Isha — With Sanskrit roots, it is connected to words associated with a “ruler,” “master” or “lord.” It is used as a feminine given name in South Asian communities.
- Ishani — Sanskrit in origin, it is the feminine form of Ishana and is associated with divine power. It is also used as an epithet for the Hindu goddess Parvati.
- Ishita — Derived from Sanskrit, it carries meanings associated with “mastery,” “superiority” or “greatness.”
Related: Go Ahead and Toss Out Your Old List—Here Are 300+ Unique Baby Names From the Last Decade!
Unique and Uncommon ‘I’ Middle Names for Girls- Isra — Arabic in origin, it means “night journey.” The word has particular significance in Islamic tradition.
- Ibtisam — From Arabic, it means “smile.” Its positive meaning makes it an especially warm choice.
- Ikram — Arabic in origin, it conveys ideas of “honor,” “generosity” and “hospitality.”
- Ilham — Derived from Arabic, it means “inspiration.” It is used for both girls and boys in different cultures.
- Intisar — An Arabic name meaning “victory” or “triumph.” Its strong meaning gives it plenty of presence.
- Ife — From the Yoruba language, it means “love.” Its short length makes it particularly easy to use as a middle name.
- Ifeoma — Igbo in origin, it means “good thing” or “something good.” The name is widely used in Nigeria.
- Ijeoma — From Igbo, it translates to “good journey” or “safe journey,” giving it a particularly fitting association with hopes for a child’s future.
- Ivana — The feminine Slavic form of Ivan, it ultimately traces to the Hebrew Yohanan, meaning “God is gracious.”
- Ingeborg — Old Norse in origin, it combines the name of the god Ing with an element meaning “protection” or “fortress.”
- Inger — A traditional Scandinavian name with Old Norse roots associated with the Germanic god Ing and ideas of protection.
- Ioanna — The Greek feminine form of Ioannes, it ultimately comes from Hebrew and means “God is gracious.”
- Iphigenia — Drawn from Greek mythology, it was the name of a daughter of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra. The ancient name’s exact etymology has been interpreted in several ways.
- Ismene — An ancient Greek name found in mythology, including as the name of Antigone’s sister. Its precise original meaning is uncertain.
- Ishtar — Taken from the ancient Mesopotamian goddess associated with love, fertility and war. The exact etymology of the goddess’s name remains debated.
- Idunn — From Old Norse mythology, Iðunn was the goddess associated with youth and the apples that maintained the gods’ vitality.
- Ireland — Taken from the country name, which combines the Irish Éire with the English word “land.” It has become an occasional modern given name.
- Indigo — Derived from the English word for the deep blue-violet color and dye. The term ultimately comes from Greek wording referring to dye from India.
- Ivory — An English word name referring to the pale material historically obtained from tusks. As a name, its strongest modern association is usually with the creamy white color.
- Irie — From Jamaican Patois, it conveys ideas such as “good,” “pleasant” or “all right.” The upbeat meaning has contributed to its use as a modern given name.
- Imelda — With Germanic roots, it is traditionally linked to elements associated with universality and battle, though its exact historical development is debated.
- Ismay — A medieval name found in England and France whose precise origin remains uncertain. Its rarity gives it a distinctly vintage quality.
- Irati — A Basque name taken from the Irati Forest and River in the western Pyrenees. The place-name connection gives it a strong link to the natural landscape.
- Ilana — The feminine form of the Hebrew Ilan, it is connected to the word for “tree.”
- Inbar — From the modern Hebrew word for “amber.” Its gemstone association gives the name a warm, nature-inspired meaning.
Related: 125 Modern Baby Names for Boys and Girls
Creative ‘I’ Middle Names for Boys- Isaac — From the Hebrew Yitzhak, it means “he will laugh” or “he will rejoice.” In the Bible, Isaac was the son of Abraham and Sarah.
- Isaiah — Hebrew in origin, it means “Yahweh is salvation.” The name belongs to one of the major prophets of the Hebrew Bible.
- Ian — The Scottish form of John, it ultimately traces to Hebrew and means “God is gracious.”
- Ibrahim — The Arabic form of Abraham, it is traditionally associated with the meaning “father of many.” It holds an important place in Islamic tradition.
- Idris — Found independently in Arabic and Welsh traditions, this name has more than one possible origin. In Islamic tradition, Idris is the name of a prophet mentioned in the Quran.
- Iker — Basque in origin, it is associated with the idea of “visitation” and became widely known through a Basque devotional title for the Virgin Mary.
- Ignacio — The Spanish form of Ignatius, it traces to the ancient Roman family name Egnatius. Its ultimate meaning is uncertain.
- Igor — The Russian form of the Old Norse Ingvarr, it combines the name of the god Ing with an element associated with a warrior.
- Imran — An Arabic name with biblical and Quranic connections, corresponding to the Hebrew Amram. Its precise etymology is uncertain.
- Ira — A biblical Hebrew name with an unknown meaning. It is sometimes traditionally interpreted as “watchful.”
- Irving — Originally a Scottish surname connected with the place name Irvine. Its exact deeper etymology is debated.
- Ishan — Sanskrit in origin, it means “ruler” or “lord” and is also associated with Shiva in Hindu tradition.
- Ismael — The Spanish and Portuguese form of Ishmael, it comes from Hebrew and means “God hears.”
- Israel — Hebrew in origin, it is traditionally interpreted as “he struggles with God” or “God contends.” In the Bible, the name was given to Jacob.
- Issachar — A Hebrew biblical name borne by one of Jacob’s sons. Its etymology is debated, though it has traditionally been connected with “reward” or “wages.”
- Itai — Hebrew in origin, this biblical name is commonly associated with the idea of being “with me.”
- Ivo — Germanic in origin, it comes from an element associated with the yew tree, which was historically valued for making bows.
- Inigo — The Spanish form of the medieval Basque name Eneko. Its precise original meaning remains uncertain.
- Isidore — Greek in origin, it means “gift of Isis,” referring to the ancient Egyptian goddess.
- Immanuel — From Hebrew, it means “God is with us.” The name appears in the Book of Isaiah.
- Isa — The Arabic name used for Jesus in the Quran. It corresponds to the biblical Jesus, whose name ultimately traces to a Hebrew name associated with salvation.
- Iskander — A form of Alexander found in Persian, Arabic and neighboring languages. Its Greek root means “defender of men” or “defender of people.”
- Ilya — The Russian form of Elijah, it ultimately comes from Hebrew and means “my God is Yahweh.”
- Ingram — An old Germanic name whose etymology is debated, though it is commonly linked with the god Ing and a second element associated with a raven.
- Ingmar — Scandinavian in origin, it combines a reference to the Germanic god Ing with an element meaning “famous” or “renowned.”
Related: 150 Unusual Baby Names for Girls and Boys
Strong ‘I’ Middle Names for Boys From Around the World- Icarus — From Greek mythology, Icarus was the son of Daedalus who flew too close to the sun. The exact linguistic origin of the name is uncertain.
- Ikechukwu — Igbo in origin, it expresses the idea of “God’s power” or “the power of God.”
- Ifeanyi — An Igbo name conveying the idea that “nothing is impossible.” It frequently appears in longer constructions invoking God’s power.
- Ikenna — From Igbo, it combines elements meaning “strength” or “power” and “father,” giving the sense of “the father’s strength.”
- Isamu — Japanese in origin, its meaning depends on the kanji used. One common form uses a character meaning “courage” or “bravery.”
- Itsuki — A Japanese name whose meaning changes depending on its written characters. One common form means “tree.”
- Ichiro — Traditionally written with characters meaning “first son,” it was historically associated with the first-born boy in a Japanese family.
- Isao — Japanese in origin, it can be written with characters carrying meanings such as “merit,” “achievement” or “honor.”
- Issei — A Japanese name with several possible kanji combinations, so its precise meaning varies. Many forms incorporate a character associated with “one” or “first.”
- Islam — From Arabic, the word means “submission” or “surrender” to God and is also the name of the Islamic faith.
- Ivar — Old Norse in origin, it is traditionally connected with elements associated with the yew tree or bow and a warrior.
- Innes — A Scottish name derived from the Gaelic innis, meaning “island” or land beside water.
- Indrajit — Sanskrit in origin, it means “conqueror of Indra.” The name appears in the Hindu epic Ramayana.
- Irakli — The Georgian form of Heraclius, it ultimately traces to the Greek Herakles and carries the meaning “glory of Hera.”
- Ilir — An Albanian name connected with the ancient Illyrians of the western Balkans. Its deeper etymology is uncertain.
- Iyad — Arabic in origin, it is associated with “support,” “strength” or something that provides reinforcement.
- Iyanu — From Yoruba, it means “wonder,” “marvel” or “miracle.”
- Izhar — A Hebrew biblical name traditionally associated with “shining” or “brightness.”
- Izzat — Arabic in origin, it carries meanings such as “honor,” “glory,” “might” or “prestige.”
- Ikemefuna — From Igbo, it expresses the idea “may my strength not be lost.” The name is also familiar from Chinua Achebe’s novel Things Fall Apart.
- Israfil — An Arabic name associated in Islamic tradition with the angel who will sound the trumpet at the end of time. Its deeper etymology is uncertain.
- Ithiel — Hebrew in origin, it means “God is with me.” The name appears in the Hebrew Bible.
- Isambard — An old Germanic name traditionally associated with elements referring to “iron” and strength or bravery. It is especially familiar through British engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel.
- Ihsan — Arabic in origin, it means “excellence,” “benevolence” or “doing what is beautiful.” The term also has an important ethical meaning in Islam.
- Irfan — Derived from Arabic, it means “knowledge,” “awareness” or “understanding.”
Related: 125 Weird Baby Names for Parents Who Think Outside the Box
This article was drafted with the assistance of AI and thoroughly reviewed, edited and fact-checked by Parade editors. See our complete AI Policy.
AI Is Helping Set McDonald’s Prices: Here’s What That Means for Your Order
The price of your next Big Mac could be influenced by artificial intelligence. According to Reuters, McDonald’s is increasingly using AI to guide menu prices in the United States and some international markets.
Its pricing engine uses machine-learning algorithms to analyze millions of daily transactions and recommend prices for menu items at each restaurant. One factor is an estimate of how much customers in the area are willing to pay.
Those recommendations can vary between nearby locations. Three franchisees told Reuters that the system has widened existing price differences for identical products, including between neighborhoods in the same area.
In September, Reuters checked prices on the McDonald’s app and found that a company-operated restaurant in Fresno, California, charged $5.69 for a Big Mac. Another company-operated location two miles away charged $6.89, approximately 21% more. Reuters could not confirm whether the pricing engine’s recommendations caused that difference or whether other factors were responsible.
The platform also includes publicly available prices from nearby competitors’ online menus, including Wendy’s and Burger King. Both chains told Reuters they do not use AI to make pricing decisions.
McDonald’s says franchisees remain free to set their own prices. However, five store owners told Reuters that the company pressured them to use the AI pricing tools. A June document reviewed by the news agency showed that McDonald’s records franchisees’ departures from its recommendations in detail.
Since January, the company’s business standards have required franchisees to engage constructively with approved pricing consultants and tools, according to an internal communication reviewed by Reuters.
The investigation drew on screenshots of the pricing platform taken in August and interviews with nine sources who had firsthand knowledge of the strategy. For customers, it reveals how estimates of local willingness to pay are helping shape price recommendations, while franchisees retain their stated pricing freedom.
'Digger' Might Finally Land Tom Cruise His Best Actor Oscar
In what is shaping up to be possibly the most divisive release of the year, Alejandro G. Iñárritu’s new film Digger has absolutely blown open the cinematic landscape. From its first teaser trailer featuring Tom Cruise in some heavy old age makeup, all the way up to the wide release a couple days ago, the film has certainly gotten audiences talking. In the harsh line that is being drawn between those who loved it and those who didn’t, I find myself firmly on the side of loved, as Digger is my favorite movie of the year.
The film follows Digger Rockwell, an eccentric and endlessly powerful oil baron dead set on positioning himself as humanity’s savior in the wake of a global disaster he created. Aside from that, I think it is a movie best experienced going in completely blind. The story takes some massive swings that are in incredibly gratifying and exciting experience in the theater.
For starters, I got to see the film in VistaVision, which was an absolute treat. For those who don’t know, VistaVision is a newly resurrected large film format that has begun to be used again, a notable example being last year’s best picture winner One Battle After Another. Seeing the film in this massive, gorgeous format was a true testament to how incredible the camera work and production design are. The film is shot by the incomparable Emmanuel Lubezki, who is hands down one of the greatest cinematographers in cinema history, and he once again does a phenomenal job here.
The other standout is Tom Cruise, who I think is in career best form. There is a thunderous grandiosity to the work he is doing here that engages in a careful waltz with this incredible vulnerability. He absolutely disappears into the character, at times being near unrecognizable between his voice, the makeup, and the absolute scene devouring nature of this character. There’s a scene towards the halfway mark of the movie that is possibly my favorite of the year. Cruise has this absolutely remarkable and terrifying sequence that is a potentially career defining moment. I’m all in on the best actor train for Cruise. He’s absolutely phenomenal in this movie, and the award is long overdue for his talents.
Digger is as important and urgent a film as you could ask for in these insane and surreal times we live in today. Instead of being a basic and predictable satire, it delves into something much deeper and much more frightening that deeply interrogates both the world we live in, as well as the way we process that world. There’s a choice that is made during the credits of the film that deeply affected me and left me feeling this deep sadness for the world as we know it today. Digger is revelatory, ambitious, frightening, and utterly captivating.
In what is easily my favorite film of the year so far, Iñárritu and Cruise craft both an unforgettable character and an unforgettable story that will leave you thinking long after the credits have finished rolling.
Digger: 5/5Related: ‘Resident Evil’ Adaptation Might Be 2026’s Most Thrilling Film Yet
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Bryan Cranston Provides Major Update on His Future in Acting at 70
Retirement isn’t on Bryan Cranston’s radar—and thank god for that.
The Breaking Bad star opened up about his future while attending ArtPrize in Grand Rapids, Michigan, revealing that he hopes to continue acting and writing for as long as he possibly can.
“For an actor living the life that I am very fortunate to have, I have no intention of stopping, and I think life will stop before I will want it to, and that will be great,” Cranston told PEOPLE in a piece shared Saturday, October 3.
In fact, walking away from his career is difficult for Cranston to even imagine. “It’s like stopping breathing for me. If I stopped acting and writing, what would I do?” he said, adding that while some people look forward to retirement, “I wouldn’t know what to do with it.”
Instead, Cranston hopes to keep experiencing (and creating) as much as possible. Recalling a quote about wanting to be “completely worn out” by the end of one’s life, he explained that he’d like to eventually feel as though he has nothing left to give.
“I did everything—I traveled, I experienced life—and I’m tired and I’m just absolutely done,” he said per the outlet. “I want to be able to be proud of the things that I’ve [accomplished].”
Acting has been part of Cranston’s life since childhood. Both of his parents worked as actors, and he recalled putting on his first play in the family’s garage, with his brother writing and directing the production.
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The profession has since continued into another generation. Cranston’s 33-year-old daughter, Taylor Dearden, has earned praise for playing Dr. Melissa “Mel” King on The Pitt.
Cranston previously told PEOPLE in June that he’s been impressed by the subtleties in his daughter’s performance, admitting, “I truly think she is further along in her ability than I ever was at her age.”
That’s quite a difference from Cranston, who after years of smaller television parts and his memorable run as Hal on Malcolm in the Middle, took on Walter White in Breaking Bad at age 52—a performance that absolutely transformed his career.
‘Happy Days’ Star, 77, Shares Shirtless Selfie in Message to ‘Every Boomer’
Age isn’t anything but a number for Anson Williams.
The actor, best known for portraying Potsie Weber on the long-running ABC sitcom Happy Days, took to Instagram just days after his 77th birthday to inspire his fellow baby boomers with a shirtless selfie.
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In the photo, snapped in a bathroom, the shirtless Anson sports glasses, grey hair and pants, but little else as he holds up his iPhone with one hand and flexes the other arm to show off his bicep.
“My yearly reminder to every Boomer: NEVER let anyone diminish us because of our age,” he wrote. “I’m 77. More creative, healthier, busier, more curious — and more alive than I was at 40. Why? A partner who sees the best in me. Good lovin’. Kindness. Adventure. A little discipline — eat right, move, take care of yourself. Mountains still worth climbing. And the absolute refusal to let anyone else decide my worth.
“We didn’t come this far to become invisible.�We came this far to become unstoppable.
We’re not winding down. We’re still winning — and we haven’t even played our best hand yet,” he added.
Williams, who turned 77 on Sept. 25, starred in Happy Days alongside Ron Howard, Henry Winkler, Donny Most and others from 1974 through 1984. During that run, he was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor.
After his run on Happy Days, Williams stepped behind the camera to direct such shows as Melrose Place, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Lizzie McGuire, The Secret Life of the American Teenager and Beverly Hills, 90210.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 02: (L-R) Anson Williams and Jackie Gerken attend the Thalians annual Winter Gala honoring Gary Sinise with the 2023 Mr. Wonderful Award at Brentwood Country Club on December 02, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Michael Tullberg/Getty Images)He also delved into the business world as co-owner of the Big Al’s dinner chain with fellow Happy Days alum Al Molinaro in 1987.
In recent years the showbiz veteran, who survived a bout with colon cancer in 2016, collaborated with his third wife Sharon MaHarry on her one-woman show, Crazy Mama: A Memoir of Love and Madness.