Parade

Good news for anyone who’s spent countless hours blasting “If You Can’t Hang” on repeat: Sleeping With Sirens is hitting the road this fall for a new tour.

The post-hardcore band that soundtracked emo-era playlists everywhere made the announcement earlier this week, sharing that the North America tour will be in support of the band’s newly released eighth studio album, An Ending in Itself.

View this post on Instagram

Fellow Florida-formed band Rain City Drive, featuring The Voice runner-up Matt McAndrew on vocals, and solo act Shyeye, whose nostalgic sound also skews emo and post-hardcore rock, will be on hand to get the crowd going.

Following the band’s pit stop at Aftershock Festival in Sacramento on Oct. 3, the An Ending in Itself Tour kicks off in Phoenix at The Van Burren. Trekking across the U.S. and Canada, the tour culminates in a final performance at Vans Warped Tour in Orlando on Nov. 14.

Tickets and VIP meet-and-greets for the tour are on sale now at sirensmusic.co/tour.

An Ending in Itself, released June 12, marks Sirens’ return to Rise Records and features singles “Forever/Always” and “Paralyzed,” which Blabbermouth calls the band’s “heaviest” track thus far. 

Produced by Will Yip, the record serves as both a homecoming and a reinvention for the band, blending their post-hardcore roots with a more mature, evolved sound. It also marks their first release with Rise since Feel, which debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200. 

So far, the gamble is paying off, as the album has received much critical praise, with Kerrang!calling it “expectation-defeating” and CaliberTV declaring it Sirens’ “best album since 2011.”

According to Blabbermouth, vocalist Kellin Quinn says that album completes “recent emotional and thematic arc ofHow It Feels To Be Lost (2019) and Complete Collapse(2022),” while also “reconnecting with the spirit that first propelled the band forward.”

The album is available in different formats with signed inserts and a zine CD featuring behind-the-scenes photos and penned lyrics.

In addition to Quinn, Sleeping With Sirens is composed of Nick Martin (guitar), Justin Hills (bass), Matty Best (drums), and Tony Pizzuti (guitar), the newest addition. In July 2022, guitarist Jack Fowler departed the band and is now touring with country star/rapper Jelly Roll.

Related: 2000s Metal Band Announces Massive 2026 North America Tour With Special Guests

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

A versatile T-shirt is probably one of the most underrated pieces in any wardrobe since it can work for almost any occasion, whether you’re dressing it up or keeping it casual. It’s even better when it’s from a brand known for quality, and right now, you can get the Eddie Bauer Fav Short-Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt on Amazon starting at $8, down from $25. It comes in eight colors, including dusty lavender, bright fuchsia, light jade, blossom, loden, iris, and pink grapefruit. Sizes range from extra small to 2X, though prices vary by size and color.

This short-sleeve style is made from a cotton-polyester blend, giving it a soft feel that’s perfect for warmer days. It features rib-knit material for stretch and shape retention, and it’s made with a polishing process that helps reduce pilling. It’s also garment-washed for softness and to help prevent shrinkage. 

Eddie Bauer Fav Short-Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt, From $8 (was $25) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

A shirt like this can work for all kinds of plans, from oceanside brunches in the summertime to apple picking in the fall. You can wear it on its own now, then layer it under a cardigan, jacket, or blazer as the weather cools down. It’s also a great option if you’re trying to save space in a suitcase, since it doesn’t take up much room and pairs well with leggings, denim shorts, skirts, and jeans.

One reviewer said, “These are perfect T-shirts,” adding that they’re “thick, fitted for a woman's shape, and the stitching is great. Well worth the money.” Another shopper commented on its design, noting it's of “excellent quality and perfectly sized.”

This top is ideal for anyone who loves to wear basics but doesn’t want to spend much. It’s designed to look sleeker than a boxy T-shirt, and the V-neckline gives it a breezier shape than a crewneck, which is especially nice for warm weather. And since it comes in eight colors, you can choose a softer shade, a brighter option, or something darker, depending on what’s missing from your closet.

Shop More Deals

• Eddie Bauer Long-Sleeve Fav V-Neck Tee, $23 (was $30) at Amazon
• Eddie Bauer Short-Sleeve Packable Camp Shirt, From $9 (was $60) at Amazon
• Eddie Bauer Departure Short Sleeve Pocket Tee, From $29 (was $60) at Amazon

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

The Eddie Bauer Fav Short-Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt is a great find if you’re looking for a soft, washable top from a beloved brand. The cotton-blend fabric, short sleeves, V-neckline, and slim fit make it a practical pick for summer, especially if you’re refreshing your everyday tees. Be sure to snag one (or two, or three) on Amazon while select colors and sizes are still on sale.

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

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

A high-quality bookshelf can definitely be pricey, but it doesn't have to be if you know where to shop. Take, for example, this charming new bookshelf at Target. It's sturdy, high-quality and just $100.

Target's Room Essentials Bobbin Turned Wood Bookshelf with Five Shelves is such a charming addition to any space. It is so versatile. Of course, you can use it as a bookshelf, but you can also store other items and decor, giving you plenty of options for how you use it in your home. It would also be great to use in a college dorm. It's easy to assemble, too, and it doesn't require any tools.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

Room Essentials Bobbin Turned Wood Bookshelf with Five Shelves Natural, $100 at Target

Target

Shop It!

Featuring a natural wood finish, this five-tier bookshelf has open shelves and bobbin-turned posts, creating a sophisticated but cute style. It's giving airy, it's giving chic, and it's giving affordable luxury.

Related: Target's Innovative Grill Caddy Makes the Perfect Father's Day Gift

Shoppers love this five-tier bookshelf, giving it an average rating of 4.6 stars on Target.com, with 75 percent of reviewers saying they would recommend it to others. Fans of the bookshelf rate it highly for its design, quality, value, ease of assembly and sturdiness. In fact, some Target customers love it so much, they purchased another after buying the first one!

"It's sturdy, affordable, and gorgeous. It took me 5mins to put it together, doesn't need any tools. I just bought another one because it's way too pretty and one isn't enough," said one happy Target shopper in a five-star review on Target's website.

"Adorable, easy to assemble, sturdy, and the bottom is adjustable for uneven floors. Now to fill the shelves! I will say the shelves are deep so if you have smaller books you need bookends. Cutest shelf ever though," said another fan in a five-star review on Target.com.

You can find this cute bookshelf on Target.com or in select Target stores. It retails for $100.

Related: Target's New Table Lamp Will Turn Your Bedroom Into a Cottagecore Dream

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If your handbag is still giving January energy, it's time for a summer upgrade. After all, we swap out sweaters for sundresses and boots for sandals the second temperatures climb, so why should our bags be stuck in another season? Summer is the perfect excuse to retire that heavy, serious tote for something a little lighter, brighter and a lot more fun.

This is the season of easygoing style, and a bag can do a surprising amount of heavy lifting when it comes to setting the tone. Raffia, straw and woven textures instantly make an outfit feel more relaxed and vacation-minded, even if your biggest getaway plans involve a trip to Target and an iced coffee run (that actually sounds like a lovely escape). They're the accessory equivalent of a coastal breeze—effortless and always in style.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 

Crown Vintage Maggie Crossbody Bag, $39.99 at DSW

DSW

Shop It!

This Crown Vintage Maggie Crossbody Bag at DSW brings plenty of warm-weather charm in a compact, easy-to-carry silhouette. The fold-over flap with a snap closure keeps your essentials secure, while the fabric-lined interior features both a zip pocket and a slip pocket to help keep smaller items organized.

Even better, it comes with both a removable shoulder strap and a removable guitar strap, giving you multiple ways to wear it depending on your mood or outfit.

Related: A 139-Year-Old Brand Is Making National Prosecco Week More Inclusive With a Zero-Proof Sparkler

The combination of natural-looking raffia and synthetic materials gives it a timeless, vacation-ready appeal that works just as well for a brunch date as for a summer getaway.

"This is a great bag," says a DSW shopper in their review. "In terms of size, it is great. It is roomy where you can add some miscellaneous stuff but not too big that it becomes bulky. The shape is very versatile, so it will easily match a variety of outfits. My favorite aspect is the wide strap; it is very comfortable on your shoulder."

In my humble opinion, DSW's raffia crossbody bag looks like the more affordable cousin of Gucci's Horsebit 1955 Canvas and Leather Small Shoulder Bag, which is currently listed for $2,047 (pre-owned, of course) on Farfetch. Of course, the Gucci style features real leather and some gorgeous hardware, but the vibe is absolutely the same as DSW's offering. Not only is the Crown Vintage Crossbody Bag a whole lot cheaper, but it's also a lot easier to find, since the Gucci bag is vintage and only available on resale sites.

Related: Anthropologie's Top-Rated Netted Jelly Mules Are the 'Easy to Wear' Slides You'll Slip On All Summer

Air Supply's 50th anniversary celebration is getting even bigger.

The legendary soft rock duo has announced six new dates for its A Matter of Time tour, expanding the milestone trek with additional performances across Australia and New Zealand this December. The newly announced shows include stops on the Gold Coast, in Wollongong, Perth, Adelaide, Broadmeadow and Auckland as the band continues celebrating five decades together.

The announcement comes as Air Supply prepares for one of the busiest chapters of its career. The A Matter of Time tour celebrates the duo's 50th anniversary, while also sharing its name with the band's upcoming studio album, its first collection of new material in 14 years.

The group shared the news of its latest album on Instagram, writing: "After 14 years, the wait is finally over!! We are thrilled to announce that our brand-new album, A Matter of Time, is now available for purchase!!"

Air Supply's story began in 1975 when Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock met while performing in the Australian production of Jesus Christ Superstar. Their musical chemistry quickly led them to form Air Supply, launching a partnership that would produce some of soft rock's most enduring songs.

“The first time I met [Graham Russell] was for rehearsals for Jesus Christ Superstar and we were amongst a few outcasts because most of the people had been in the production business and they were from a theatre background,” Hitchcock told Unlocking Connecticut. “We have the same kind of sense of humor, same interest in movies, everything is pretty much like my twin brother.”

By the early 1980s, the duo had become one of the biggest acts in the world. Between 1980 and 1983, Air Supply scored an extraordinary run of Top 10 hits in the United States, including "Lost in Love," "All Out of Love," "Every Woman in the World," "Here I Am" and "Making Love Out of Nothing at All." In 1981, "The One That You Love" became the pair’s only No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100.

Despite changing musical trends, Air Supply has remained a constant presence on the road, performing for audiences around the globe while building one of the most loyal fan bases in classic pop and rock. In 2013, the duo was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in recognition of its lasting impact on Australian music.

Nearly 50 years after first joining forces, Russell and Hitchcock are showing little sign of slowing down. Between a milestone anniversary tour, a long-awaited new album and now six additional dates in Australia and New Zealand, Air Supply continues to prove why its timeless love songs have resonated with generations of fans.

Tickets are available through Air Supply's official site.

Related: Lead Singer of '70s Rock Band, With No. 1 Hit Song, Turns 77

In the summer of 1969, The Winstons released what would become the most sampled song in music history. Initially thought of as a throwaway track, “Amen, Brother” became the foundational bedrock of entire music genres, from hip-hop to jungle, to drum and bass, with some of today's greatest artists borrowing the song's six-second drum solo for their tracks.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 

Let’s take a closer peek.

Photo by Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images

Photo by Michael Ochs Archives on Getty Images

The Winstons were a Washington, D.C.-based funk and soul band whose original lineup included Richard Lewis Spencer (bandleader, saxophonist, vocalist, songwriter), Gregory C. Coleman (drummer), Quincy Mattison (guitarist), Ray Maritano (saxophonist, flautist), Phil Tolotta (bassist), and Sonny Peckrol (pianist).

Blending rich R&B grooves, gospel undertones, and horn-driven melodies into their music, The Winstons are best known for two hits. The first is their Grammy-winning 1969 gem, “Color Him Father,” a tribute to caring and dutiful stepparents. The track was a massive crossover success that hit No. 2 on the Billboard R&B charts and No. 7on the pop charts. 

Second, and the most fundamentally impactful, is the “throwaway” instrumental B-side to “Color Him Father.” Titled “Amen, Brother,” the instrumental track continues to make the most noise as the most sampled song of all time, according to WhoSampled’s most-sampled list. 

That’s because the gospel-inspired track features a revolutionary six-second drum solo, called the “Amen Break,” courtesy of Coleman. A fleeting interlude, the solo was later lifted by music producers in the '80s and '90s, elevating thousands of songs and changing the trajectory of electronic music and hip-hop.

Songs that have tapped “Amen, Brother” for its blistering drum solo include N.W.A.’s “Straight Outta Compton” (1988), The Prodigy’s “Firestarter” (1996), Oasis’ “D’You Know What I Mean?” (1997), Amy Winehouse’s “You Know I’m No Good” (2006), and Salt-N-Pepa’s “I Desire” (1986). Rage Against the Machine, DJ Zinc, and David Bowie also had fun injecting Coleman’s drum work into their own.

Fun side note: Apple Music has compiled a playlist featuring songs that have snatched the “furious drum break.” It’s diverse; it’s all-encompassing; it’s totally worth your time. 

Despite the track’s ubiquity, the song’s creators got zilch by way of financial benefit. That changed slightly, however, in 2015, when the writers finally received some royalties for all the uncredited recordings.

According to the BBC, because “Amen, Brother” was released prior to federal copyright laws, the band missed out on royalties. To correct this, two British DJs organized a crowdfunding campaign on GoFundMe, eventually presenting Spencer with a check for more than $31,750. Unfortunately, Coleman, who passed away homeless in 2006, died before he could be compensated. 

View this post on Instagram

This year, the track’s legacy was finally cemented, with the recording selected by the U.S. Library of Congress for preservation in the National Recording Registry.

Today, Phillips, who trademarked and reactivated the group in 1996, continues to perform with his ensemble. A version of the group, often billed as The Winstons or The Winstons Orchestra, play a mix of original music and a Memories of Motown & Soul Revue. 

Related: 1965 No. 1 Hit, With the Oldest Lyrics Ever, Became a Timeless Anthem

It looks like Ryan Lochte is headed down the aisle again.

The Olympic swimming legend is engaged to girlfriend Molly Gillihan, marking a major new chapter just one year after finalizing his divorce from ex-wife Kayla Rae Reid.

According to a TMZ article shared on Friday, June 19, Lochte proposed last week at Prime and Pearl in Gainesville, Florida—the same restaurant where the couple had their first date. The proposal reportedly took place while the pair were celebrating an upcoming move to Missouri.

Photos shared by the outlet show the newly engaged couple celebrating in the restaurant moments after Gillihan said yes, with the pair sharing a kiss as she showed off her engagement ring.

Lochte, 41, later confirmed the happy news himself to the outlet. "I'm on cloud 9 she said yes. I'm happy this is my new beginning, and I couldn't do it without her," he told TMZ.

READ MORE: Ryan Lochte's New Look Has Fans Doing a Double Take

The couple went Instagram official over Fourth of July weekend in 2025, though they've reportedly been together for more than a year.  It will be his second marriage following his split from Reid, who filed for divorce in June 2025 after seven years of marriage. It's unclear if their divorce is finalized at this time.

Nearly a decade ago, the swimmer was publicly planning his wedding to his then-fiancée, Reid. In 2016, shortly after competing on Dancing With the Stars, Lochte told E! News he was excited to finally focus on wedding preparations after months of rehearsals. "So now I'm excited to get down and get ready for this big wedding," he said at the time. He also made it clear that he wanted to be heavily involved in the planning process.

Lochte and Reid married in 2018 and welcomed three children together: son Caiden and daughters Liv and Georgia.

A person's birthday is a special time not only in their lives, but also in the lives of those closest to them. It's a day—or in some cases a full week or even a month—to shower them with love, gifts and attention that reflect how much they mean to you. Taking the time to express how you feel about your bestie and the friendship the two of you share is important every day of the year, but especially so on their birthday! Which is where our touching birthday wishes for your best friend come in.

Friendship is a special bond, and one that should be cherished and cared for. Having people in your life who help with all of the ups and downs and celebrate everything in between is something truly marvelous to experience. If you feel like you have the greatest "partner in crime" in the whole world and their special day is coming up, but you don't quite know the best way to wish them a happy birthday, then you've come to the right place.

Continue reading to discover plenty of different options to express your sentiment, including short and sweet wishes, funny birthday wishes, thoughtful wishes, birthday quotes and even wishes with emojis! There's something here for everyone for a fun and heartfelt celebration.

Related: 101 Heartfelt Ways To Say 'Thank You' for the Birthday Wishes

127 Best ‘Happy Birthday’ Wishes for a Best Friend

Canva/Parade

1. The world got a bit better on this day because my bestie was born!
2. Happy birthday, bestie. I was going to get you the best present ever, but sadly, I’m too big to fit in the gift box.
3. Sending you my heartfelt wishes for the happiest birthday ever.
4. Forget about the past you can’t change, the future you can’t predict, and the present you're not getting because I didn’t get you one. Happy birthday!
5. Happy birthday, friend! I can’t imagine life without you!
6. Here is your yearly reminder that there is no better bestie than you! Happy birthday, girl!
7. Did you know birthdays are actually good for you? Statistics show that the more you have, the longer you live.
8. I am so blessed to have a friend like you. It may be your birthday, but I feel like I'm the one getting the gift!
9. Happy birthday to my gorgeous, smart, and loyal friend. Live your best life!
10. I’m proud to call you my best friend on this and every day. Happy Birthday!
11. One minute, you’re young and fun. The next, you have a favorite burner on the stove. I think we both know which you are… Happy birthday!
12. Happy birthday! What an amazing gift that we get to grow one year older together. I love you always and forever!
13. You’re more than a friend to me, you’re family. Happy Birthday!
14. Raising a glass in your honor today. Have the best day ever!
15. My dear friend: Thank you for always having my back and being there when I've needed you most. Today is all about you, so let's get to celebrating how amazing you are! Happy birthday!

Related: 160 Sweet Happy Birthday Wishes for Your Wife That Will Make Her Special Day Even Better

Cute ‘Happy Birthday’ Wishes for a Best Friend

Canva/Parade

1. You spread kindness every day. Let us spoil you today!
2. You shine as bright as the stars in the sky. Happy Birthday, BFF!
3. Happy Birthday to the woman who's the peanut butter to my jelly, the sock to my shoe, the gin to my tonic. I don't know what I'd do without you!
4. Nothing makes me happier than seeing my best friend happy. Happy birthday, bff!
5. You shine as bright as the candles on your cake. Keep lighting up every room. Happy birthday!
6. Your friendship is my life's biggest blessing. Happy birthday!
7. Here's to another year of "she"nanigans with my favorite partner in crime!
8. A friend doesn’t leave when times get hard. You’ve shown me that you’re here for the long haul, and I’m forever grateful. Happy birthday.
9. May this birthday, and every one after, be as wonderful as you.
10. If there’s one person I can always count on, it's you. Wishing you a happy birthday!
11. Your existence makes me believe in soulmates. Happy birthday to my platonic soulmate!
12. For your birthday, I wanted to give you something that was both funny and charming, but then I remembered you already have me in your life. Happy Birthday!
13. Friends are one of life’s greatest treasures. I cherish you today and always! Happy birthday.
14. You deserve everything you’ve wished for and more. Happy birthday!

Thoughtful ‘Happy Birthday’ Wishes for a Best Friend

Canva/Parade

1. People come and go, but true friends stay by your side through thick and thin. Thanks for always being a rock in my life. Wishing you the best birthday yet!
2. When I think about some of my favorite memories, you’re always a part of them. Cheers to more fun times together. Best wishes on your birthday!
3. When we first met, I never could've anticipated the impact you'd have on my life.
4. Life has its ups and downs, but with a friend like you by my side, I can endure it all. Happy birthday to my best friend!
5. Just like you've always been there for me through life's ups and downs, I'll always be there for you. Happy Birthday!
6. We never skip a beat, no matter how much time has passed. I love that we can always pick up right where we left off. Happy birthday, friend!
7. A good friend knows all your best stories, but a best friend has lived them with you. Happy birthday to the person in all my favorite memories!
8. I can't let another year pass without telling you how grateful I am for your friendship.
9. A friend who can make you smile on your darkest day is a bright light that can never be diminished. I’m so grateful for you. Happy birthday!
10. Wishing you nothing but love and happiness on your birthday, my sweet friend.
11. Friends may come and go, but real ones never leave. Thank you for your unwavering friendship. Happy birthday!
12. May this year bring you a heaping helping of blessings.
13. I’m so thankful for this day. It’s the day one of my best friends entered the world!
14. Happy Birthday to the person I want to be when I grow up. You're an inspiration to us all.

Related: 125 Religious Birthday Wishes and Messages That Express Faith-Filled Love to Family and Friends

Short and Sweet 'Happy Birthday' Wishes for a Best Friend

Canva/Parade

1. Friends make everything better. Happy birthday!
2. Enjoy your special day to the fullest, bestie!
3. Celebrating you on your birthday, words can't express how much your friendship means to me.
4. Today, we cherish and celebrate you! Happy birthday, old pal.
5. Happy birthday to my beautiful friend! 
6. My memories are filled with moments of joy from your friendship. Happy Birthday to the best!
7. I can’t think of a better gift than your friendship. Happy birthday!
8. Happy Birthday to my partner in crime! I can't wait to see what we get up to in the next year.
9. One of the best parts of life is friendship. Thank you for being my bestie!
10. Cheers to more fun, more memories and cake! Happy birthday.
11. This year, take time to find peace and happiness in every day.
12. Happy Birthday to my utterly and absolutely irreplaceable best friend.
13. I don't know how it's possible, but every year you just keep getting better. Love you bunches!
14. Happy birthday to the loyal friend who sticks by me, thick or thin.

Birthday Blessings for Best Friends

Canva/Parade

1. May God continue to bless your path, friend. Happy birthday!
2. You deserve every blessing you receive today.
3. You brighten my life, and I am so grateful to have you by my side. Happy birthday!
4. I hope all your wishes come true today, my friend.
5. May all of your dreams become a reality this year.
6. Happy birthday to the friend who's always been there for me. Celebrate, live it up, and cherish the gift of getting another year older. You're the best, and I love you!
7. What a blessing to be your friend!
8. You have no idea how much your friendship means to me. I may not say it often, but I love you and wish you nothing but happiness today and always. Happy birthday!
9. On this day every year, I remember how blessed I am to be able to call you a friend.
10. Wishing you a year of health, happiness, peace and prosperity.
11. Today I celebrate you and all the joy you bring into my life. I love and cherish you today and always.
12. You're another year older—find blessings in every day.
13. Wishing my bestie the best day ever!
14. May your personal new year bring an abundance of blessings!

Related: Yay, It's Your Birthday! Get the Party Started With These 100 Hilarious Birthday Puns

Sweet Birthday Wishes for Best Friend

Canva/Parade

1. I'm so proud of the life you've built, and so happy to be a part of it. Happy Birthday!
2. You're such a blessing to everyone, we should celebrate you with cake and presents every day!
3. Wishing a happy birthday to my sunshine and friend! The world is a brighter, better place with you in it. Enjoy your special day.
4. Nothing can shake our unbreakable bond — and for that, I’m forever grateful. Happy birthday, bestie.
5. When we met, I knew that you’d always be a part of my life. I admire your kindness, fun personality and your heart. Happy birthday!
6. May this birthday bring you all the happiness you can imagine!
7. Happy birthday to the person who can make me laugh when I want to cry. You’re the best friend any girl could have.
8. It's the best day of the year, because it's the day we get to celebrate you!
9. You’re one of a kind and deserve everything that this special day brings!
10. I can’t imagine life without my best friend. Happy birthday!
11. May every single one of your birthday wishes come true this year.
12. Happy Birthday to someone who is as lovely inside as she is out!
13. You make the world a better and brighter place. Happy birthday, bestie!
14. We’ve shared so many good times together, and I can’t wait to see what’s next! Happy birthday!

Funny Birthday Wishes for Friends

Canva/Parade

1. Don't let old age get you down. It's difficult to get back up. Happy Birthday!
2. You know you're old when the candles on the cake set off the smoke alarm.
3. Happy birthday! Let’s make a deal: I won’t tell anyone your real age if you don’t forget my birthday next year.
4. The candles on the cake aren't the only thing getting lit tonight! Happy Birthday!
5. Here's to another year of getting up to no good together! Happy Birthday to my ride or die!
6. Older? Yes. Wiser? Debatable. Happy Birthday, bestie!
7. Don't forget to smile awkwardly when everyone sings you "Happy Birthday" today!
8. To my forever-young friend, may you continue to be blessed with flawless skin!
9. Happy Birthday! Just tell yourself you're not aging, you're just becoming a classic.
10. Don't worry, they are not gray hairs; they are wisdom highlights. You just happen to be extremely wise!
11. Smart, good-looking, and funny! But enough about me. Happy birthday!
12. Happy Birthday to someone who's old enough to know better and young enough to not care.
13. You know what they say about more candles… A bigger wish! Happy Birthday.
14. A quick reminder on your special day: well-behaved women rarely make history. But we don't have to worry about that!

Related: Time To Celebrate! Here Are the Best 134 Birthday Freebies You Have To Take Advantage Of

Emoji Birthday Wishes for Friends

Canva/Parade

1. To the one who lights up my world: Happy Birthday! 🌟
2. Happy Birthday, buddy! 🌍✈️ Here’s to another year of chasing dreams, making memories, and having a blast! 📸🍾🎉
3. Happy Birthday, my dearest friend! 🎊
4. Happy Birthday to my bestie! 🥳 Wishing you the best day ever, filled with love, laughter, and all the cake! 🎂💖🥂
5. 🎈 Cheers to a year filled with surprises, laughter, and countless joyous moments!
6. You take the🎂birthday girl!
7. 🎂 Happy Birthday! May your day be as sweet and delightful as a birthday cake!
8. Happy Birthday to a true star in my life 🌟. Thank you for always being there for me 🥰. Wishing you a beautiful year ahead! ✨🌹
9. Cheers to another year of amazing adventures! 🥳
10. Can't wait to🥂 you tonight, bestie! 🍾
11. Happy Birthday! 🎈 Don't count the candles, just enjoy the glow! 😎 Let's celebrate like the old days tonight! 🍕🍻🥳
12. To the friend who sparkles: shine bright on your birthday! ✨
13. 🌟 🎉Wishing you a spectacular birthday filled with love, happiness, and all your heart desires!
14. It's your 🎂🎉 🥳🎁! It's 🕖 to 🖌 the town red!

Birthday Quotes for a Best Friend

Canva/Parade

1. "Let us celebrate the occasion with wine and sweet words." —Plautus
2. "Life is partly what we make it, and partly what it is made by the friends we choose." —Tennessee Williams
3. "Close friends are truly life’s treasures. Sometimes they know us better than we know ourselves." —Vincent van Gogh
4. "Friendship is the wine of life." —Edward Young
5. "A friend knows the song in my heart and sings it to me when my memory fails." —Doris Roberts
6. "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends." — John 15:13
7. "There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship." —Thomas Aquinas
8. "Friendship isn’t a big thing—it’s a million little things." —Paulo Coelho
9. "True friends are like diamonds—bright, beautiful, valuable, and always in style." —Nicole Richie
10. "Count your age by friends, not years. Count your life by smiles, not tears." —John Lennon
11. "A good friend is like a four-leaf clover; hard to find and lucky to have." —Irish Proverb
12. "With mirth and laughter let old wrinkles come." —William Shakespeare
13. "The secret of staying young is to live honestly, eat slowly, and lie about your age." —Lucille Ball
14. "The balm of life, a kind and faithful friend.” —Mercy Otis Warren

Up Next:

Related: 155 Best Happy Birthday Quotes & Wishes to Celebrate Someone's Special Day

The Rolling Stones are inviting fans behind the scenes of one of the biggest chapters in their recent history.

The legendary rock band has announced Speaking in Tongues, a new six-part official podcast exploring the making of its acclaimed 2023 album, Hackney Diamonds. The series premieres June 25 and will feature brand-new interviews with Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood, giving listeners an inside look at the band's first album of original material in nearly two decades.

The podcast will also feature appearances from producer Andrew Watt, The Cure frontman Robert Smith, Steve Winwood and artist Nathaniel Mary Quinn. Grammy-winning singer Norah Jones will narrate the series.

Hackney Diamonds was, at first, as much a surprise to Richards and Wood as it was to fans. Jagger was the engine driving the project forward, a sense of urgency bubbling deep from within.

"That is Mick's thing: 'Let’s do it.' And in this instance, it was the right time to put the boot behind us and get going," Richards told The Times. "We bumped into Andrew Watt, which gave us impetus because he is a very energetic young man. We call him the Kid."

"You gotta understand, I’m a f*****g fan," Watt later told Rolling Stone. "If I told them how many Rolling Stones concerts I'd seen, I don't think they’d ever talk to me again. When we were in the studio, I'd tell them, 'You let a freak from behind the barricade produce the album.' I wore a different Stones T-shirt in the studio every day."

View this post on Instagram

Hackney Diamonds marked a major milestone for the Rolling Stones when it was released in October 2023. The album became the band's first collection of original songs since A Bigger Bang in 2005 and was widely praised by critics, debuting at No. 1 in multiple countries. It also featured collaborations with artists including Lady Gaga, Elton John, Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder, reaffirming the band's ability to bridge generations more than 60 years into its career.

The album also marked the first time the band found itself in the studio without drummer Charlie Watts, who died in 2021. Watts had been behind the Stones' drum kit since 1963.

"Anything I do is a tribute to Charlie Watts," Richards told Rolling Stone. "It's impossible for me to lay anything down without automatically thinking that Mr. Watts is laying the backbeat down. [...] I so miss that, man."

The new podcast promises to expand on that story, offering fresh perspectives from the musicians and collaborators who helped bring the album to life. For longtime fans, it also provides another rare opportunity to hear Jagger, Richards and Wood reflect on their creative process in their own words.

Few bands have embraced new ways of sharing their history while continuing to make new music quite like the Rolling Stones. From documentaries and archival releases to chart-topping albums, the group has consistently found ways to revisit its legacy without slowing down.

"The only thing I want the Stones to be remembered for is being a good rock band," Jagger told The Times. "There is going to be the Beatles and there is going to be the Stones and together they will represent the rock era. The Stones are much longer lived, obviously.”

With Speaking in Tongues set to debut later this month, fans will soon have a new window into the making of Hackney Diamonds and another reminder that one of rock's greatest bands continues to tell its story on its own terms.

Related: 1974 Rock Classic, Famously Resurged 30 Years Later, Became One of Rock’s Most Distinctive Hits

Not every Costco favorite comes from the bakery or frozen aisle. Sometimes it's the product you barely notice as you toss essentials into your cart. That's the case with Boudin Sourdough Crackers, a snack that has developed a devoted following among Costco shoppers thanks to its crunchy texture and distinctive sourdough flavor.

Made by the San Francisco bakery famous for its sourdough bread, the crackers are baked twice and lightly seasoned with sea salt. While they work well on a cheese board or alongside your favorite dip, many shoppers say they're just as good straight from the box.

The Secret Is in the Sourdough

Instacart

Boudin has been making sourdough bread in San Francisco since 1849, and these crackers are essentially an extension of that legacy. According to the bakery, they're made using many of the same artisan methods as its famous bread, then baked twice and lightly seasoned with sea salt.

That sourdough heritage is what sets them apart from many crackers found in the snack aisle. Instead of a buttery or neutral flavor, these have a noticeable tang and a hearty crunch that keeps them from fading into the background. They're still versatile enough for a cheese board or dip spread, but the flavor is strong enough that many shoppers seem perfectly happy eating them plain.

Related: 7 'Secret Menu' Items at Texas Roadhouse Even Regulars Don't Know About

Perfect for Cheese, Dips and More

While plenty of shoppers seem content eating these crackers straight from the box, they're also an easy addition to a cheese board. The sourdough flavor pairs especially well with creamy cheeses like brie and goat cheese, while the hearty crunch can stand up to richer toppings like smoked salmon, prosciutto and pepper jelly.

They're also sturdy enough for thicker dips. If you've got spinach artichoke dip, hummus or a whipped feta spread in the fridge, these crackers won't fall apart after the first scoop. If you're already making a Costco run, it wouldn't be hard to build an entire snack board around the items you pick up. Add a few cheeses, some cured meat and fresh fruit, and you've got an easy appetizer for guests.

Shoppers Say They're Hard to Put Down

On Reddit, one Costco shopper called Boudin Sourdough Crackers "legitimately the best crackers I've ever had," praising their "Amazing sourdough flavor. Perfect amount of crunch and not too salty."

"I 100% agree," wrote one commenter. "I usually buy a few boxes and then eat them all in a few weeks then have to not buy them again for a while so I don't just keep eating them."

"These are crack. Super addictive," one shopper commented, while another admitted, "These are so damn good, I can just sit and eat these plain out of the box."

The only downside, according to some shoppers, is that they can be difficult to find. Several commenters noted they've only seen them in certain regions, while others celebrated spotting them back on shelves after a long absence.

If these crackers show up at your local Costco, you may want to toss a box into your cart. Just don't be surprised if you find yourself going back for another.

Related: Trader Joe's Shoppers Are Calling This New Tropical Dessert 'Addictive'

Some people have an incredible ability to make children feel safe, no matter the circumstance. When they enter a room, kids often rush up to ask them to play a game, share a story, or show off their creative crayon drawings. This special connection isn’t just because they are parents, caretakers, or teachers; it’s because they create a warm, welcoming atmosphere where children feel comfortable and understood. While anyone can be great with little ones, it's interesting to note that certain astrological birth months might produce people who naturally draw kids in even more. Per experts, read on to discover which four birth months are most likely to be great with kids.

Which Birth Months Are Great With Kids?

Check for your birth month below. Of course, amazing people are born every month of the year. But often, June-borns, October-borns, March-borns, and August-borns seem to have a special ability to connect with children. And when kids decide you're one of their favorite people, that's probably one of the most honest compliments you'll ever receive.

March: The Big Kid Who Never Lost Their Sense of Wonder

People born in March have vivid imaginations and warm hearts. Whether you're a dreamy Pisces or bold Aries, there's a creative streak that children find irresistible. March-born adults are often the ones willing to build the blanket fort, join the make-believe adventure, or sit through an elaborate story involving dragons, superheroes, and talking dogs. They remember what it felt like to be a kid, and that ability helps them connect naturally with younger people. Children appreciate adults who aren't afraid to be a little silly once in a while.

READ: The 6 Words Therapists Wish Every Parent Would Say to Their Kids More Often

June: The Playful Listener Every Child Adores

People born in June often have a playful side that never completely disappears. Whether you're a curious Gemini or nurturing Cancer, there's usually a youthful energy about you that children immediately pick up on. June-born individuals tend to be great conversationalists, and that doesn't stop when they're talking to kids. They ask questions, listen to answers, and genuinely seem interested in whatever exciting topic is on a child's mind that day. Kids love feeling heard, and June birthdays have a knack for making that happen without even trying.

NEXT: 4 Birth Months Are the Heart of the Family

August: The Confident Cheerleader Who Inspires Young Minds

August-born individuals often carry a confidence that kids find reassuring. Whether you're a confident Leo or an organized Virgo, you tend to have a strong but approachable presence. Many August birthdays become the people children look up to. They're often protective, encouraging, and quick to offer praise when it's deserved. Kids feel supported around them, and they know they're dealing with someone who genuinely wants them to succeed. At the same time, August-born people usually know how to keep things fun, which is why children often can't wait to spend time with them.

RELATE?: The 4 Birth Months Destined for a Spiritual Awakening in 2026

October: The Safe Haven Kids Naturally Trust

There's something naturally welcoming about many people born in October. Whether you're a balanced Libra or determined Scorpio, you often know how to make others feel included. Children are surprisingly good at reading people, and they tend to trust those who make them feel safe. October-born individuals often have a calm presence that puts kids at ease. They're patient and encouraging, and they allow children to be themselves without criticism, which kids don't forget.

UP NEXT:

England supporters are once again turning a Beatles classic into a stadium-wide singalong, with fans across Dallas serenading midfielder Jude Bellingham with "Hey Jude" during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The musical tribute has become one of the tournament's most memorable fan moments, blending one of Britain's most iconic songs with one of England's brightest football stars.

How "Hey Jude" A World Cup Anthem

While the chant is rooted in soccer culture, its appeal extends far beyond the sport itself. The sight and sound of tens of thousands of supporters singing "Hey Jude" in unison transforms a football stadium into something resembling a massive concert venue, creating a feel-good moment that resonates with sports fans and music lovers alike.

@foxsports

Jude Bellingham gave @England fans something to sing about #FIFAWorldCup #EnglandvsCroatia #JudeBellingham #EnglandWin #soccertiktok

♬ original sound - FOX Sports

The tradition has gained renewed attention during the World Cup as videos of England supporters belting out the Beatles anthem continue to spread across social media. The chant celebrates Bellingham's performances on the pitch while showcasing the creativity and passion of England's fan base.

Related: Carrie Underwood Stuns Fans With Explosive Drum Solo In Resurfaced Concert Footage: 'Had No Idea'

Why Fans Turn Popular Songs Into Soccer Chants @biweeklychronicles

England fans singing Hey Jude to Jude Bellingham after the 4-2 win over Croatia yesterday. You can see him fighting back some tears and tbh I was right there with you Jude. What a beautiful moment from the beautiful game. The World Cup has truly brought everyone together for a brief period of this hectic world and it's genuinely one of the best things I've ever experienced. If you can, go to a host city. Go meet some of the fans traveling here. We've met some incredible people these last few days and it's been less than a week. Can't wait to see what the rest of the tournament has in store. Follow for more World Cup content as we follow England around the cup. It's coming home, lads. #england #worldcup2026

♬ original sound - biweeklychronicles

Adapting popular songs into personalized player anthems has long been a beloved tradition in soccer. Supporters often borrow the melodies of well-known hits and rewrite the lyrics to honor standout players, creating memorable chants that can echo through stadiums for years. The songs become both a celebration of a player's achievements and a way for fans to express their connection to the team.

In Bellingham's case, the connection is particularly natural. The chorus of "Hey Jude" seamlessly fits the England star's first name, allowing fans to transform one of the most recognizable songs in music history into a tribute that feels both spontaneous and timeless.

Music and Football Unite World Cup Fans

As England continues its World Cup journey, the chorus of "Hey Jude" has become more than just a soccer chant. It's a musical salute to one of the game's biggest stars and a reminder of how music can unite thousands of people in a shared moment of celebration.

Related: Paul McCartney Reveals His Favorite Beatle in Viral Interview

🎬SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬

This month has been full of of cosmic happenings. And this weekend, June 21 marks the summer solstice. As the astronomical beginning of summer, this event occurs when the Earth's axis is angled towards the sun, resulting in the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

Summer Solstice Across the World

For thousands of years, the summer solstice has been a significant, celestial moment across cultures and helped ancient civilizations track the sun's movements to manage calendars for religious and agricultural planning.

Photo by Anadolu on Getty Images

The ancient Aztecs celebrated with feasts, dances, and ceremonies to ensure agricultural fertility and harmony. In Europe, Celtic communities marked the solstice with bonfires and midsummer celebrations honoring the sun at its peak. Meanwhile, in ancient Egypt, the solstice coincided with celebrations honoring Ra, the sun god. These cultures all came together to stop and celebrate the longest day of the year.

SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox.

The Discovery That's Older Than Stonehenge Itself

Stonehenge stretches back roughly far into history. The prehistoric monument remains one of the world's most famous destinations for observing the summer solstice, with thousands of visitors gathering each year to watch the sunrise align with the ancient stones.

Photo by Peter Adams on Getty Images

But this year's solstice comes with a remarkable discovery.

Researchers working near Stonehenge recently uncovered evidence of a ceremonial cite that could be older than Stonehenge itself. The excavations revealed two wooden poles positioned 120 meters apart to form a line pointing at the rising sun during the summer solstice and at the setting sun during winter solstice.

“This discovery is probably one of the greatest finds of my career and what makes it so important is just how early it is," Dr Phil Harding, Archaeologist at Wessex Archaeology who led the excavations, said in a press release. "Up till now, our knowledge of this ancient feat of astronomy was based on Stonehenge and other monuments of a similar period, but what we’ve discovered at Bulford is 500 years earlier than the famous stones we know so well. It makes me incredibly proud to be an archaeologist."

What This Discovery Means for Stonehenge's Legacy

This discovery adds a new layer to Stonehenge’s history, suggesting that the solstice celebrations held there may echo a tradition far older than the monument itself.

“In a few days’ time, Stonehenge will be filled with people celebrating midsummer solstice," Harding notes. "But what few will realize is that 5,000 years ago on a nearby hillside overlooking modern day Bulford, people were doing the exact same thing – revering and celebrating the sunrise on midsummer’s day."

This weekend, as the sun rises over the stones, it’s a chance to reflect not only on the history of the site, but on the way humans have looked to the sky on the longest day of the year for thousands of years.

Related: Next up:

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you’re planning to spend plenty of time outside this summer, having a way to stay protected from the sun is essential. From park picnics and beach days to sporting events and weekend camping trips, a portable canopy makes it easier to stay out longer without constantly chasing shade or cutting the day short. It’s a simple way to beat the heat without missing all the fun.

Right now, Amazon has the Best Choice Products Pop-Up Canopy Tent on sale for $110, marked down 31% from its original $160 price tag ahead of Prime Day. Designed for quick setup and easy portability, it creates instant shade wherever you need it.

Best Choice Products Pop-Up Canopy Tent, From $110 at (was $160) Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Available in 27 colors, this 10-foot-square canopy is designed with a straight-leg frame that delivers 100 square feet of covered space. Adjustable up to 9 feet high, it offers four preset height settings so you can fine-tune the amount of headroom and airflow. 

The polyester canopy top is flame-retardant and built for outdoor durability, while the steel frame provides a sturdy base that can handle frequent use. For added stability, four optional weight bags can be filled up to a total of 112 pounds to anchor the corners, helping keep the structure secure on grass, pavement, or sand.

Setting this canopy up is quick and straightforward with a one-push central button system and no-pinch height adjusters. Simply unfold the frame, press the central button to lock it into place, and adjust the height using the sliders until you reach your preferred level of shade. It’s built for solo setup in under a minute, making it easy to get coverage fast. 

The canopy collapses with the same button-release system to fold down compactly. An included rolling storage case, complete with a zip closure, built-in wheels, and a rugged handle, makes it easy to transport from one event to the next. “It’s super lightweight, which makes moving it around to different spots really easy, whether you’re using it in the backyard or taking it to a game or event,” one reviewer raved

Shoppers were impressed by this “high-quality” and “easy to set up” tent’s “sturdy,” “durable,” and “stable” design. Reviewers said it provides “plenty of shade” and is “perfect for the summer.” 

One customer said assembly was “a breeze.” Others highlighted the tent’s ability to withstand numerous conditions, with another reviewer saying it stayed put “through wind and storm.” 

Shop More Deals

• Nazhura Pop-Up Canopy Tent, from $100 (was $130) at Amazon
• Coleman Oasis Instant Pop-Up Canopy Tent, from $146 (was $215) at Amazon
• Eagle Peak Pop-Up Canopy Tent, $139 (was $160) at Amazon

Related: Walmart Has a 'Convenient' $100 Pop-Up Tent With 'Fast and Effortless' Setup for Instant Shade This Summer

When you need a break from the sun without heading indoors, the $110 Best Choice Products Pop-Up Canopy Tent delivers. Shop it for 31% off at Amazon ahead of Prime Week!

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

The actor is Tom Hanks—and the film is Cast Away. But there’s one moment he says he still can’t bring himself to watch.

Reflecting on his performance, Hanks got candid about one moment from the film that still stays with him.

"There is a moment that was painful for me in 'Cast Away,'" Hanks said on the June 18 episode of The Rest Is Entertainment podcast.

In the film, Hanks plays a FedEx systems analyst named Chuck. Chuck and his girlfriend Kelly (Helen Hunt) gives him a pocket watch prior to Chuck heading out on a business trip. His plane ends up crashing and he is the sole survivor—except he's on a deserted island for four years before being rescued. When he finally returns home, he's surprised to learn that Kelly got married—and he ends up returning the watch she gave him.

"Chuck is back in Kelly's house, and he gives her [the] watch back, and there's a moment where I just think, ‘I'm not there.' ... I do this gesture that I just think is false, and is me and is not Chuck."

"If the movie is on, I will get up and leave the room before that scene comes on," Hanks added.

Hanks said that he didn’t realize what he felt about the moment until he saw the finished film. But for him, it remains one of the few scenes in his career he struggles to revisit.

Cast Away was released in 2000 and became a massive box office success, earning widespread critical acclaim and multiple award nominations.

Hanks has recently been back in the headlines thanks to his return to voice work in Toy Story 5 alongside Tim Allen. The film hit theaters on Friday, June 19.

READ NEXT: Taylor Swift’s Rhode Island Mansion Appears Quiet—But Security Is Present (Exclusive Video)

For decades, Florida has been the gold standard for retirement in the United States. With a long coastline, endless sunshine, and no income tax, retirees thought this was the dream. For many retirees, the reality of living in Florida wasn’t what they were promised. 

A lot of seniors end up leaving Florida for “Halfback States” that have similar appeals without the crowds or expense. The locations are offering retirees the weather and comforts without all the headaches. So what are the “Halfback States” and what do they offer for retirees?

The “Halfback Retirees”

“Halfback Retirees” refer to people who left the North for Florida, only to find it wasn’t what they thought, and decide to move half of the way back. The reality for many people is that Florida is crowded and expensive, with uncomfortable weather, according to an article on Realtor.com. Instead of staying, many people are going to the Carolinas, Tennessee, and Georgia. 

Related: Thousands of Retirees Are Skipping Florida for This One Sunny Arizona City

Why Leave Florida

Florida advertises itself as a great place to retire because of its no-state-income-tax policy, but the fees associated with living in Florida often outpace those savings. In fact, in 2025, Florida saw almost as many retirees move out of the state as move in, according to Moneywise.

Floridians have seen a 75% increase in home insurance, well above the 38% national average, due to increasingly volatile weather. It’s not just hurricanes either; the heat and the humidity have become so intense that Floridians need to run their AC most of the year. Utility bills are already high, but Floridians are relying on temperature control more than ever. 

Overdevelopment and the cost of living create an inhospitable environment for people on fixed incomes, even when that income is significant. Property taxes have risen dramatically, as have home insurance premiums, and HOA fees never go away. 

A study done by Florida Atlantic University shows that 80% of Floridians are concerned about the cost of housing and nearly 50% have considered leaving due to the state becoming unaffordable. 

💥 Parade's daily newsletter explodes with the best stories on your feed. Sign up now 💥

3 Halfback Destinations Worth Considering

Asheville, NC

Active retirees will love this city with access to the outdoors minus the heat. You’ll still experience all four seasons without the unbearable winters of the north or the sweltering southern summers. It’s framed by the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and Asheville has a thriving arts and culture scene. 

North Carolina doesn’t tax Social Security income, and the cost of living is lower than pretty much any place you’ll find in Florida. Currently, Zillow lists the average home price at $463,235. That may seem a little high, but the average yearly insurance premium for a home at that price is just over $2,000. It’s a far cry from the $10,000 premiums many Floridians pay for the same type of property.

Charleston, SC

If you want the coast without the cost, this southern charmer has immense appeal. It’s steeped in history, and the city's beautiful architecture reflects its storied past. The climate has that warm coastal feel that many retirees crave.

South Carolina is leading the nation in attracting and keeping retirees, with it being the fastest-growing state for new residents 65+, having gained nearly 2,000 residents last year from Florida alone. That may be in part due to the fact that some retirement income is exempt from taxation, while the state also maintains affordable costs of living. The healthcare infrastructure is robust as well. 

Home prices, according to Zillow, average around $596,003, with home insurance landing around $3,000 a year.

Chattanooga, TN

If you love the lights and music of Nashville, but not the increasingly expensive cost of living, Chattanooga is an alternative worth investigating. It offers access to the Tennessee River and the Appalachian Trail, but also has a revitalized, walkable downtown. The weather isn’t as unpredictable as Florida, and you’ll still experience a range of seasons.

Like Florida, Tennessee doesn’t tax any type of income. Unlike Florida, Tennessee is still widely affordable with a dramatically lower cost of living. Retirees on fixed incomes benefit both from no income tax and affordability. Home prices average out around $324,298, with home insurance on that type of property averaging about $3,000.

Related: The No-Income-Tax States Retirees Love Most Are Hiding a Financial Trap Nobody Warns Them About

Is The Halfback Life For You?

If you’re already in Florida and finding it isn’t what you thought, or you’re looking at places to retire, the halfback life may be for you. Florida used to be the gold standard for retirement living, but as it has become expensive and unenjoyable, there are better places to settle down in retirement.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice.

• Realtor.com — "Why Retirees Are Leaving Florida for Halfback States"
• Moneywise — "Florida Saw Almost as Many Retirees Move Out as Move In"
• Florida Atlantic University — "80% of Floridians Concerned About Cost of Housing"
• Zillow — "Asheville, NC Home Prices"
• Zillow — "Charleston, SC Home Prices"
• Zillow — "Chattanooga, TN Home Prices"

President Donald Trumpjust unveiled the brand-new Air Force One. The Boeing 747-8 is a $400 million luxury plane gifted to the U.S. from Qatar. 

Trump introduced the brand-new plane at a press conference from Joint Base Andrews in Maryland outside of Washington, D.C., saying, “When you see it, you won’t believe it, actually. The quality of woods, the quality of materials. The quality of the engines. These engines are the finest. They’re the best in the world. Nothing like it.“

View this post on Instagram

He went on to thank Qatar’s government for the gift, adding, “It’s really an honor. And I want to thank the Emir of Qatar. He’s a fantastic guy. He went through a lot over the last few months. He’s very brave.” 

Trump also shared plans for a Fourth of July celebratory flyover in Washington, D.C., led by Air Force One: “And I think I can say we’re going to do a flyover like no flyover. This is going to lead a group of many, many planes. This will be a flyover on July 4th. I think I can say the likes of which we’ve never seen before. Spending a couple of bucks extra for a little fuel. We own the planes, so all we need is a little extra fuel, right?” 

JOINT BASE ANDREWS, MARYLAND - JUNE 19: U.S. President Donald Trump delivers remarks after touring the newest aircraft in the presidential fleet at Andrews Air Force Base on June 19, 2026 at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. The Qatari royal family gifted the lavish $400 million, 13-year-old Boeing 747-8 to the U.S. Air Force to be used as the new Air Force One. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)

The President continued, giving a shout-out of sorts to his pilot, saying, “There’s a rumor that when you fly the President, you have to be the best pilot. So my pilot’s very good.”

Of course, in describing the plane, Trump managed to slip in a not-so-humble brag about Air Force One: “Now when we land at airports in London, in Germany, in different places, nobody tops this one. And that’s the way we have to have it for our country. Nobody even comes close. So my return from the G7 summit was the last planned trip aboard the VC-25A, that’s the 747 that will probably do the museum thing…It’s a plane that was authorized by President Ronald Reagan many years ago.”

TOPSHOT - US President Donald Trump speaks in front of the new Air Force One, gifted to him by Qatar, in a hangar at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on June 19, 2026. (Photo by Brendan SMIALOWSKI / AFP via Getty Images)

Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink added (in an Air Force press release), “The safety and security of the commander in chief is our highest priority.” Meink continued, “From the beginning, we meticulously evaluated every requirement to accelerate delivery while maintaining the high standards expected of the presidential mission. This effort proves that the U.S. Air Force can move fast without sacrificing quality, security, or reliability.” 

According to the Air Force, the new VC-25B is now ready for commissioning flights. These are Air Force One’s “final exam” before the President begins using the plane for routine flights.

For over two months, Hailee Steinfeld and Josh Allen have kept one major detail about their baby daughter private. Now, the actress is finally sharing it.

In a letter published to her Beau Society Substack newsletter on Friday, June 19, Steinfeld revealed that she and the Buffalo Bills quarterback named their daughter Harper Haize Allen.

The Hawkeye star explained her letter was prompted by questions from subscribers about motherhood and what she hopes her daughter might one day learn about her by reading the newsletter.

Addressing her daughter directly, Steinfeld wrote, "Dearest Harper, I'm in awe of you." The 29-year-old reflected on the whirlwind of emotions that have defined her first few months as a mother, describing the experience as both "beautiful and exhausting" and "The longest days and the shortest season all at once."

She also shared a sweet look at life with Allen behind closed doors. "Your daddy and I look at you often and ask each other the same question: How did we get so lucky to have you?" she wrote.

Throughout the letter, Steinfeld described the small moments like late-night wakeups, missed naps, and diaper changes. She also revealed that motherhood has changed her in ways she never expected. "It’s funny, I used to think motherhood was about raising a child," she wrote. "But now, I think being a mother is actually about allowing yourself to become someone new over and over again."

READ MORE: Hailee Steinfeld Reveals the Awards Season Look That Felt the Most ‘Special’ to Her (Exclusive)

The emotional message concluded with the first public reveal of her daughter's full name. "And even though I know I am meant to guide you through this life, Harper Haize Allen, the truth is that already, you have taught me far more than I could ever teach you."

A black-and-white photo of Harper’s hand wrapped around Steinfeld’s finger also accompanied the letter.

The letter comes a month after Steinfeld gave fans a small glimpse at baby Harper in a belated Mother's Day Instagram post. While she and Allen have largely kept their daughter out of the public eye, the carousel featured tiny hands, little feet tucked into a strawberry-print outfit, homemade cards, and snapshots from a family celebration.

Steinfeld and Allen welcomed Harper in April.

Toy Story 5 is officially in theaters and fans can't get enough of Woody, Buzz, Jessie and the gang. And while Pixar has created and grown these beloved characters over the past three decades (I first met Woody and Buzz when I was 12!), they've also done an incredible job of introducing unforgettable villains across the franchise. From Stinky Pete's shocking arc to Lotso's Sunnyside Daycare takeover, every film finds meaningful ways to challenge the gang.

Toy Story 5 takes this to another level with the sleek, smart tablet named Lilypad (voiced by Greta Lee). But Lily doesn't want to destroy the toys—in fact, she's indifferent. All she cares about is being Bonnie's new best friend—and she's got group chats, games and an entire digital world to offer.

To celebrate the release of Toy Story 5, we're ranking every major villain in the franchise—because some of them aren't really bad guys when you break it down. And of course, we couldn't leave out the sidekicks and henchmen who deserve a spot for being pure nightmare fuel.

Read on to discover where Toy Story's villains rank—from misunderstood and misguided to irredeemably evil.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

Toy Story Villains, Ranked9. Lilypad – 'Toy Story 5' "Even though Jessie and Lily are polar opposites, they both fundamentally care about Bonnie," says Greta Lee, who voices Lilypad.

Photo courtesy of Pixar. © 2026 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved.

The newest "villain" on this list might not actually be one. Initially presenting as a sleek, frog-shaped smart tablet, Lilypad (Greta Lee) connects Bonnie to a digital hangout called "The Pond." It's packed with group chats and games that pull her away from Woody, Jessie and the rest of the crew. And when a friend mocks Bonnie for still playing with toys during a sleepover, Bonnie pulls back from Jessie entirely, sending the gang into a full-blown identity crisis.

But here's the twist: Director Andrew Stanton has revealed that Lilypad isn't a true antagonist. "Lots of people at the studio wanted her to be a villain, and it was so hard to strike the balance because I think we all come in with such loaded emotions towards devices," he told Variety. "At the end of the day, it never made sense." Whether the toys win Bonnie back the old-fashioned way or Lilypad surprises everyone with her own act of high-tech heroism, we'll have to wait and see.

Related: Taylor Swift Stuns Tom Hanks With an Extra Special Request at the ‘Toy Story 5’ Premiere

8. The Mutant Toys – 'Toy Story' Even though I know they're harmless, these guys still scare me when they first appear onscreen.

YouTube

So here's the thing: At first, I was completely terrified when these mutant toys—led by Babyface—first appeared. They're so damn scary—even when I rewatch it now as an adult! But after it's revealed that they're actually sweet, pure characters who want to help, I get tears in my eyes. Maybe it seems minor, but it's just another example of Pixar packing so many incredible messages into one children's film. In this case, it's never judge a book by its cover.

7. Gabby Gabby – 'Toy Story 4' Gabby Gabby is a vintage doll from the 1950s.

YouTube

There's no question about it: Gabby Gabby's methods were completely terrifying. Ventriloquist dummies are nightmare bait on their own, but enlisting them to kidnap Woody and steal his voice box!? Maniacal.

Eventually, however, we learn about her harrowing backstory and discover that in reality, Gabby Gabby (Mad Men's Christina Hendricks) is a vintage doll with a factory defect. She truly believes that if her voice box worked, she would finally be worthy of a child's love. When she finally gets the voice box and still gets rejected by her dream kid? It's absolutely heartbreaking. Her tearjerker ending proves she was never actually a villain—she just desperately needed a second chance.

6. Sid Phillips – 'Toy Story' Sid and Woody in Toy Story

YouTube

Sid (voiced by Erik von Detten) has always been seen as a terrifying toy torturer. But when you actually think about it, he had absolutely zero idea that his toys were alive. He didn't think he was actually hurting anyone while assembling his mutant creations. Instead, they were more like a testament to his impressive imagination. And the moment Sid realized his toys actually had feelings, he was completely terrified and changed his ways.

Related: Pixar’s Groundbreaking 1995 Animation Is Regarded as One of the ‘Best Movies of All Time’

5. The Cymbal-Banging Monkey – 'Toy Story 3' Lotso's loyal, rabid guard monkey made sure no toy ever escaped Sunnyside Daycare.

YouTube

Sunnyside Daycare’s unhinged head of security wasn't so much a villain as he was Lotso's loyal, rabid guard dog. Sitting alone in the dark control room, he monitored the camera feeds with bulging, bloodshot eyes and a horrifying permanent grin. But the real nightmare fuel? The moment Woody triggers his alarm. Watching this monkey's mouth unhinge to reveal a pair of massive, jagged fangs is an actual jumpscare. Thankfully, the end credits reveal he gets a happy ending—and a sweet pair of sunglasses—under Barbie and Ken's new management.

4. Al McWhiggin aka Chicken Man – 'Toy Story 2' Al McWhiggin—aka the "Chicken Man"—was hoping to get rich by selling Woody, Jessie and Bullseye to a toy museum in Japan.

YouTube

Al McWhiggin—voiced by Wayne Knight and better known to millennial audiences as the "Chicken Man" or Seinfeld's Newman—wasn't plotting world domination or forcing toys into hard labor. The sleazy owner of Al's Toy Barn just wanted a massive payout. He’s less of an evil mastermind and more of a greedy opportunist who views Woody, Jessie and Bullseye strictly as his ticket to a cushy early retirement. He might lack the sinister, calculated plotting, but his willingness to steal a beloved toy from a little girl's yard sale makes him pretty awful.

Related: We Ranked All the ‘Toy Story’ Films—Do You Agree With Our Picks?

3. The Bensons – 'Toy Story 4' Gabby Gabby had The Bensons at her disposal.

Pixar

Ventriloquist dummies are inherently creepy, but Gabby Gabby’s silent henchmen took things to another level in Toy Story 4. Patrolling the aisles of the Second Chance Antique store, they looked like something straight out of a haunted house movie rather than a Pixar film. Their floppy walking, dead-eyed stares and complete lack of dialogue multiplied the creep factor. The fact that they never spoke a single word—just chased Woody and Forky down in the dark—earns them a spot on this list.

2. Stinky Pete the Prospector – 'Toy Story 2' Don't let Stinky Pete's sweet grandfatherly act fool you!

YouTube

Stinky Pete (Frasier'sKelsey Grammer) is the ultimate wolf in sheep's clothing. He spends the first half of Toy Story 2 as a wise, comforting grandfather figure—only to later be revealed as one seriously demented dude. Spending decades "mint in the box" on a dime-store shelf—while shiny toys like Buzz Lightyear took over—completely broke his spirit and turned him into a psychopath. Instead of yearning to be loved by a child, he gaslights Jessie and Woody, determined to lock them behind glass in a Japanese museum forever. And when his plan is finally foiled? He drops the sweet old man act and literally tries to slash Woody to pieces with a pickaxe!

1. Lotso (aka Lots-o'-Huggin' Bear) – 'Toy Story 3' How could a cute purple bear end up being so scary?

Disney/Pixar

Lotso—voiced by the late, great Ned Beatty, who was famously known as Lex Luthor's henchman Otis in the classic Superman films—remains the absolute gold standard for Pixar villains. Abandoned and accidentally replaced by his original owner, Daisy, his devastation turned him into a deeply cynical, ruthless character. Lotso turned Sunnyside Daycare into a terrifying destination, deliberately locking every new arrival into the Caterpillar Room to be destroyed by out-of-control toddlers while he and his pals live a life of luxury in the older kids' room.

But what cements Lotso's legacy at the very top of the villain pyramid is not a redemption arc—instead, it's his final, unforgivable act: After Woody and Buzz risk absolutely everything to save his life in the dump, Lotso chooses to leave them in the roaring incinerator.

Related: Next Up:

Growing up,Jon Bon Joviconsidered fellow New Jersey boy Bruce Springsteen a mentor, something he claimed was common among musicians of the Garden State.

"Being from New Jersey and being at all in the music business, you had to know what the E Street band was, even if it wasn't your musical tastes," Bon Jovi, 64, explained to PEOPLE. "He is the cornerstone of New Jersey rock and roll. Of course, there was Frank Sinatra, there was Frankie Valli, there was Whitney Houston; there's incredible singers, but the E Street band was hugely important for anyone who picked up an electric guitar."

Shared Roots

Like Springsteen, 76, Bon Jovi started out at the Stone Pony, the famous Asbury Park music club that opened in 1974. Along with local bands, national acts like the Ramones, Elvis Costello, Stevie Ray Vaughn, and the Smithereens also played there before their careers took off.

Becoming friends with Springsteen was "one of the highlights" of his career, as he looked at the E Street Band as New Jersey's version of the Beatles.

A Hometown Hero

"They made the impossible possible — 25 miles from your house was a guy that was making records," he explained. "They weren't just the posters on the wall; it was just right there. So when you're 17, that's like seeing Jesus and the disciples."

Eventually, the two developed a closer connection, which he talked about in 2024's Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story. "Our connection is deep, on a whole different level of friendship, because how many guys can talk like we can talk, in close quarters, about life, and love, and loss," he said.

New Jersey Royalty

Despite having very different musical careers, they've experienced many similarities, so much so that Bon Jovi joked that he's "the prince of New Jersey," while Springsteen remains on the throne.

For Bon Jovi, Springsteen was more than just a musical mentor—he was proof that rock stardom was possible right in his backyard. Their shared roots at the Stone Pony blossomed into a deep, unparalleled friendship, leaving Springsteen as the undisputed king of New Jersey rock, and Bon Jovi as its proud prince.