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When Ella Langley took the stage at the Charleston Coliseum during her high-energy Dandelion Tour on Saturday, September 12, the packed arena was electric. Armed with only an acoustic guitar, the rising country star paused the heavy production to pay homage to the genre’s foundational roots. As she began strumming the opening chords of “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels,” the crowd immediately erupted into cheers.

Langley delivered a raw, beautifully stripped-down snippet of the iconic track, her soulful vocals breathing fresh modern life into the seventy-four-year-old melody while effortlessly preserving its traditional, vintage heart. It stood out as a memorable moment of the night, proving her immense reverence for the trailblazing women who paved the road before her.

The history behind this song is nothing short of legendary. Released in 1952 by Kitty Wells, the track completely shattered music industry assumptions and broke massive cultural gender barriers.

At that time, record executives firmly believed that female artists could not sell records or headline major tours. Furthermore, the song itself was highly controversial. Written by J.D. Miller, it was a direct, unapologetic “answer song” to Hank Thompson’s reigning hit “The Wild Side of Life,” which blamed a wayward woman for breaking up a marriage. Wells’ track brilliantly flipped the script, arguing that unfaithful men were truly the real cause of broken homes.

Because of its bold social commentary, the song was initially banned by NBC and the Grand Ole Opry for being far too suggestive. However, that censorship could not stop its incredible momentum. The track rapidly flew up the charts, officially making Kitty Wells the first solo female artist to ever score a No. 1 hit on the Billboard country chart. It successfully launched her historic career as the undisputed Queen of Country Music, proving forever that talented female country artists belonged at the very top.

Elvis Presley was no stranger to taking hits made famous by other artists and turning them into raw, deeply personal confessions.

But when the King of Rock and Roll sat down to record his rendition of Neil Sedaka’s “Solitaire,” a track the Carpenters had released a year earlier, the result was far more than a standard pop cover. By the time he recorded “Solitaire,” Presley was in a very different place in his life. He took a song Karen Carpenter had turned into a smooth radio hit and stripped it down, filling it with a heavy, quiet sadness.

The King of Rock and Roll recorded the tune at his Memphis, Tennessee home, Graceland, in early 1976. This session was grouped with others in October of that same year, and the two became known as the Jungle Room sessions. The room became famous for its Tiki-inspired furnishings and decor.

The idea to have Presley record at home came after it became increasingly difficult to get him into a standard recording studio. Therefore, RCA brought a truck Graceland and set up a mobile studio, where he could lay down tracks on his own schedule. The home’s official Facebook shared an image of the truck in Graceland’s backyard.

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Presley recorded material for what would become his final releases during those sessions, held in February and October 1976. These LP’s are From Elvis Presley Boulevard, Memphis, Tennessee, and 1977’s Moody Blue.

The Sedaka and Phil Cody lyrics paint a picture of a man who has lost love, spending his days in isolation while life passes him by. It hit remarkably close to home for Presley, whose lifestyle reportedly took a heavy toll on his personal life.

Presley’s version didn’t hit the Billboard Top 100. However, ranked No. 10 on the country charts, as part of a double A-side with “Are You Sincere,” released almost two years after he died in 1979.

Cody discussed his feelings about Presley’s version of “Solitaire” with Songfacts. “It’s sort of weirdly histrionic,” he said. “I mean, I’m happy about it. It’s a wonderful way to sit down and start a conversation. I had an ASCAP country award with Elvis doing ‘Solitaire.’ That’s always nice on my resumé.”

He added, “It was a song that nobody at the publisher believed in. And I think it was through Neil’s efforts that that song started to generate attention.”

Neil Sedaka first recorded “Solitaire” in 1972 for his album of the same name. The Carpenters followed with a 1975 version of the song for their LP Horizon, which broke into the Billboard Top 100, landing at No. 17.

Karen Carpenter’s version of “Solitaire” was pop perfection, but Elvis Presley gave it a soul-baring truth. By taking the song out of a traditional studio and into his own living quarters, he transformed a simple breakup ballad into one of the most painfully honest vocal performances of his final chapter.

Related: Karen Carpenter Reportedly Disliked This 1975 Neil Sedaka Song So Much She Refused to Perform It

When Head East recorded the song “Never Been Any Reason” in the mid-1970s, it was a small-budget single released without the backing of a major record label. But the song quickly gained traction across Midwest airwaves, turning an unlikely release into a breakout hit.

Featured on the band’s debut album Flat as a Pancake, “Never Been any Reason” was recorded at Golden Voice Recording, a tiny studio in South Pekin, Illinois, the hometown of band member Mike Somerville, according to Songfacts. The low-budget album was released independently in 1974, with the band doling out copies to every radio station in the area. Head East scored a deal with A&M Records after “Never Been Any Reason” became popular on radio stations in St. Louis and Kansas City, and the album was re-released in 1975.

RELATED: 1976 No. 1 One-Hit Wonder Was Written in Five Minutes

Written by Somerville, “Never Been Any Reason” features a soaring Minimoog intro, a heavy guitar riff, and alternating lead vocals by drummer Steve Huston and lead vocalist John Schlitt, with a catchy chorus: “Save my life I’m goin’ down for the last time.”

The song, about the breaking point of a relationship, was fueled by a push on Midwest airwaves and reached No. 68 on the Billboard Hot 100 in late 1975. It not only became Head East’s signature song but also one of the defining rock anthems of the era.

According to the band’s official website, “Never Been Any Reason” has been dubbed “by many radio stations across the country as ‘The Rock & Roll National Anthem.’”

The Illinois Rock and Roll Museum also describes Head East’s signature song as “an anthem of the era.”

Head East knew they had something special with “Never Need Any Reason,” although they also put their faith in another track, “Love Me Tonight.”

In an interview with Ultimate Classic Rock, keyboardist Roger Boyd recalled, “AM radio was still pretty strong, we thought ‘Love Me Tonight’ was going to be bigger than ‘Never Been Any Reason.’ When we cut the record, FM AOR radio still hadn’t broken huge.”

“Well, ‘Never Been Any Reason’ got so big that everybody wanted something a little heavier, more like ‘Reason,’ so that kind of stomped on ‘Love Me Tonight’ a little bit,” the Head East keyboardist added. “But we felt that one of those two songs was definitely going to do something big for us. I mean, when I listened to the playback, I at least knew we were going to get our money back, which was huge, as far as that was concerned. … I can still throw it on today and make my spine tingle a little bit.”

More than 50 years after its release, Head East continues to tour, while “Never Been Any Reason” remains a rock radio favorite and an enduring anthem of the classic rock era.

Related: 1974 Rush Song, Recorded by a 20-Year-Old, Remains the Ultimate Ode to the Working Class 52 Years Later

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Finding the so-called “perfect” pair of shoes can be tricky for anyone. When you’re specifically looking for comfort-forward footwear that you can wear virtually anywhere, though, the task becomes even more challenging. Thankfully, Clarks has developed a reputation for exactly that type of shoe — and the brand’s Ashland Bubble Slip-Ons are just the right option if you’re seeking a smart pair for daily wear.

On top of offering a sensible loafer design, they’re also an excellent deal at Walmart right now. Originally $55, they’re available in black, blue and brown for as little as $48 depending on the size and width you choose. There’s also a few other options at full price. All three discounted hues are great for fall, when many people reach for apparel in earthy tones that complement the season’s cozy vibe.

Courtesy of Walmart

It’s rare for shoes to cover as impressive a size spectrum as these. Some varieties are available in narrow, medium, wide, and extra wide widths, and there are whole and half sizes ranging from 7 to 12. With their simple, no-fuss design and thoughtful details, these loafers promote all-day comfort from the first step.

They’re part of the brand’s Bendables range, which is designed to completely eliminate the usual break-in period. With enhanced cushioning and an Ortholite footbed to absorb shock, the shoes offer a supportive, cloud-like sensation that can make all the difference when you’re on your feet all day. 

The distinctive loafer design is classic from front to back, making it exactly the kind of shoe you’ll want to wear every day. A smooth leather upper adds a refined touch to the look, while a signature tassel detail gives them that retro-inspired, preppy quality that sets the style apart from other shoes. 

With over 250 five-star reviews, they’ve earned widespread praise from enthusiastic shoppers who swear by their Clarks for durability and longevity. One person noted they “walked all day with them on” and said the shoes felt “very comfortable.” Another reviewer dubbed them “really cute,” adding they wear them all the time. 

Sizing is by far the area that impresses people the most. Many shoppers shared that they appreciated the wide range of options, including those with wide feet who said they rarely find footwear that’s as forgiving and roomy in the toe box as these. 

Related: Walmart’s 8-Tier Arched Bookcase With Modern Farmhouse Charm Adds ‘Elegance’ and Extra Storage to Small Spaces

If you’re shopping for comfortable shoes you can wear every day, a pair of Clarks Ashland Bubble Slip-Ons fills the gap while adding a classic finishing touch to virtually any outfit. Don’t miss them while they’re on sale from $48 at Walmart.

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In 1968, four musicians in Dunfermline, Scotland, formed the band that would become Nazareth. Nearly six decades later, only one of those four founding members is still alive.

Bassist Pete Agnew celebrates his 80th birthday on Monday, Sept. 14. Agnew founded Nazareth alongside singer Dan McCafferty, guitarist Manny Charlton and drummer Darrell Sweet, and remarkably, he remains a member of the band today.

Agnew’s lengthy career includes one particularly chilling brush with rock history.

In October 1977, Nazareth and Lynyrd Skynyrd were touring the United States together when Nazareth declined an invitation to travel with the Southern rock band from Greenville, S.C., to its next concert in Baton Rouge, La.

The plane crashed on Oct. 20, killing Lynyrd Skynyrd singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, backup singer Cassie Gaines, road manager Dean Kilpatrick and pilots Walter McCreary and William Gray.

Agnew later joked about the aircraft’s appearance, telling Classic Rock, “We’d seen their plane, which looked like Gaffa Tape Airlines.”

Nazareth had already become international rock stars by then. Their 1975 album Hair of the Dog featured the title track and their recording of “Love Hurts,” which became the band’s only U.S. Top 10 hit and reached No. 1 in several countries.

Agnew eventually became Nazareth’s last surviving original member following the deaths of Sweet in 1999 and Charlton and McCafferty in 2022.

He is also the only founding member still performing with the group. When Classic Rock asked Agnew in 2024 whether he would ever retire, his answer was emphatic.

“I can’t even think about not being in the band,” he said, adding that after about five weeks away from the road, “I need a gig.”

Agnew also reflected on how much the band’s long history means to him, particularly as its last surviving founder. He admitted there are nights when he realizes he’s not only the last original member still performing with Nazareth, but “the last one of us left alive.”

At 80, Agnew is still carrying on the band he helped start 58 years ago.

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There’s still plenty of summer left to enjoy, but if you’re already looking ahead to cozy dinners and busier fall routines, now is a great time to refresh your table. A beautiful dinnerware set can instantly elevate everyday meals, and this Oneida collection at Macy’s delivers the handcrafted look that’s trending right now for far less than you’d expect. 

Right now, Macy’s has the Oneida Organic Shades 12-Piece Dinnerware Set on sale for just $61, down from $94 — that’s 35% off. Made from durable glazed stoneware, each piece features soft, earthy tones with subtle variations that create the look of artisan pottery. Shoppers have been impressed by its style and quality, with one calling the set “durable and beautiful.” 

Courtesy of Macy's

Designed to serve four, the 12-piece set includes four 10.25-inch dinner plates, four 9-inch accent plates and four 28-ounce all-purpose bowls. They are a practical choice for everything from weekday breakfasts to family dinners and weekend gatherings. 

The collection comes in four colors — taupe, blue, pink and green. One reviewer said the dishes looked “natural and rustic,” while another praised the “perfect size,” adding that they loved the “shades of green” their set came in.

Caring for stoneware is simple, especially if you take the time to hand wash these dishes to preserve their glazed finish. If you’re in a rush, these dishes are dishwasher- and microwave-safe, so everyday cleanup and reheating are convenient. To prevent cracks, avoid sudden temperature changes — let any hot pieces cool before washing, and don’t move cold dishes straight into a hot oven. 

Related: Martha Stewart’s $34 Pineapple Kitchen Mat Is the Cutest Way to Add Comfort to a Busy Kitchen

With its earthy colors, durable stoneware design and artisan-inspired finish, the Oneida Organic Shades 12-Piece Dinnerware Set is a stylish and practical upgrade for just $61. If you’ve been looking for an easy way to refresh your table before fall entertaining begins, this Macy’s deal is worth scooping up while it’s still in stock and on sale!

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There are some movies that simply stand the test of time, and Jurassic Park is one of them. The 1993 Steven Spielberg movie would kick-start an entire franchise, and it remains one of the most popular family adventure flicks.

It currently sits at No. 100 on IMDb’s list of best movies of the 1990s, and when it comes to all time, it’s at No. 136. However, as it only holds a 91% Rotten Tomatoes score, it doesn’t make it to that site’s best of all time list. Yet, out of all the movies on the list, this is arguably one of the biggest franchises of all time.

Jurassic Park ended up being a movie Spielberg agreed to direct so that he could have another major release later that year: Schindler’s List. The black-and-white movie was a much bigger risk, and Universal Pictures thought that a movie involving dinosaurs and creating a whole theme park that would turn deadly would be a much bigger hit.

Sure enough, the two movies would end up creating one of Spielberg’s biggest years of his career, but it would be his passion project that would sit at the top of “greatest of all time” lists.

That being said, Universal wasn’t wrong. In June 1993, Jurassic Park would hold the title for highest-grossing film of all time. Since then, it has been knocked down considerably, including by one of its franchise sequels, Jurassic World, and by the likes of Titanic, Avatar, and Avengers: Endgame.

However, the success is warranted considering the work that was put into it. Spielberg had to figure out how to create the noises of the dinosaurs, have people work out how to create the ripple in the glass of water effect, and change his view on creating movies. At the time, stop-motion was still in use, but as he saw how CGI was working, he realized that it was time to step away, and it all led to the iconic line spoken by Jeff Goldblum, “stop-motion is extinct.” That line was paraphrased from stop-motion legend Phil Tippett saying it to Spielberg, and sure enough, just years later, CGI would fully take over.

The late Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Goldblum chatted back in 2022, looking back on the movie as it turned 30, and they looked back on favorite moments and behind-the-scenes details.

Dern shared that her favorite moment on set was filming running from the Velicoraptor, sharing, “It was the most fun I had with Steven. He loved choreographing this idea of ‘you’re in this circumstance. It’s gonna be really terrifying, really scary, and then the climax is you succeed, and then you fall back, and then something terrifying happens.’” That terrifying moment? It was Mr. Arnold, although it did lead to many more running moments that involved a lot of laughter on the set because of the way the flashlight dragged items along.

Neill looked back on the accent that he was meant to use and the change that happened, sharing that Spielberg would change his mind about things. At first, Neill had practiced a specific accent, and then Spielberg said to use his own voice. Well, days later, Spielberg wanted something in between, and the rest is history.

There’s no doubt that this is an adventure thriller for the whole family. The good news is you can watch it easily on Hulu and AMC+.

Related: 1999 Tom Hanks Movie Is Ranked One of the Best Movies Ever — But Only Holds a 78% Rotten Tomatoes Score

Amy Schumer is showing off her 50-pound weight loss at the US Open.

The actress and comedian, 45, who transitioned from stand-up standout to Comedy Central fame with her beloved series, Inside Amy Schumer, went on to film roles in projects like Trainwreck and I Feel Pretty. Now, the star is feeling great in her skin as she’s navigated her weight loss journey. Schumer hit the 2026 US Open Men’s Tennis Final Blue Carpet at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York and looked happy and healthy in a cute checkered dress. More svelte than ever, Schumer smiled at the camera.

John Nacion / Getty Images

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In a recent Instagram post, Schumer made it clear that she’s feeling great as she soaks up the sun on a tropical vacation.

“I never knew there would be days like this. No filter as per ushe,” Schumer captioned her photo set, which includes shots that showed the blonde beauty sporting a mismatched bikini and robe standing on a boat. She also wore a scuba suit as she headed to the depths of the ocean to check out the scene down there.

In recent years, Schumer has gotten lots of press for her weight loss transformation, including her use of GLP-1 medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro. Schumer has previously spoken out on social media about why she decided to lose weight. In a now-deleted Instagram reel, she said she did so to “survive” Cushing syndrome, a condition caused by too much of the hormone cortisol in the body, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

“I didn’t lose 30 lbs, I lost 50,” Schumer explained. “Sorry for whatever feeling it’s giving you that I lost that weight.” She went on to say that she’s now able to play tag with her son, Gene.

One thing fans can always expect from Schumer is honesty. The actress and comedian has spoken candidly with the press about her health. Back in 2023, she appeared on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen and revealed that while she tried using Wegovy several years ago, the side effects were horrific, and she became devastatingly ill as a result. Schumer told Cohen the drug made her “so sick” that she couldn’t even play with her son and had to ditch the medication.

“Like, a year ago, I tried it. I was one of those people that felt so sick and couldn’t play with my son. I was so skinny, and he’s throwing a ball at me and [I couldn’t],” she shared.

More recently, Schumer said she’s been having a “really good experience” with a different drug called Mounjaro.

 “My symptoms of being in perimenopause have disappeared. My hair is fuller, my skin is better, I have more energy. I want to ‘get down’ more, if you know what I mean,” Schumer shared in a video taken while sitting in her car. “I’m talking about sex.”

Related: Amy Schumer Is Starring in a Divorce Comedy With the ‘Best’ Title Ever

More than 700 years after his death, Dante Alighieri is remembered as one of history’s greatest poets. But the work that secured his place in literary history emerged during one of the most painful periods of his life.

In 1302, political conflict transformed Dante from a prominent citizen of Florence into an exile. He was ordered to pay a fine, barred from holding public office and banished from the city. When he refused to accept the judgment, the consequences became even more severe: Dante was sentenced to death if he returned.

He never saw his beloved Florence again.

For nearly two decades, Dante moved from place to place, depending on the protection of others and longing for the home he had lost. But amid that uncertainty, he continued to write. During his years in exile, he created the work that would become his defining achievement: The Divine Comedy.

The epic poem takes readers on an imagined journey through Hell, Purgatory and Paradise, exploring everything from love and faith to politics, justice and human nature. Dante made another daring choice when he wrote it in the language ordinary people spoke rather than Latin, which was widely used for serious literary and intellectual works.

What began with one displaced poet writing far from home ultimately became one of the foundational works of Western literature—and helped shape the Italian language itself.

That makes one line from Paradiso, the final part of The Divine Comedy, feel especially meaningful:

“A mighty flame followers a tiny spark.”

Dante knew that something small could become something far greater than anyone initially imagined. His own poem began as the work of a man who had lost his home, political standing and former way of life. Yet the flame it ignited has endured for centuries.

Dante died in Ravenna during the night of September 13–14, 1321, reportedly after returning from a diplomatic mission to Venice. He never lived to return to Florence, but the work he created in exile carried his voice around the world.

Related: Quote of the Day: Roman Poet Ovid on the Power of Determination and Perseverance in Life

“From a little spark may burst a mighty flame.”

Dante wrote these words in Paradiso, the final section of The Divine Comedy, in Canto I. The original Italian reads, “Poca favilla gran fiamma seconda.” The line appears as Dante begins his ascent into Paradise and asks Apollo for the divine inspiration he needs to describe what he is about to experience. To put it into words.

A tiny spark can become a great flame. Something that initially seems insignificant can ignite into something far larger than anyone could have imagined.

Dante may have also been thinking about his own poetry. Perhaps hoping that his attempt to describe Paradise might inspire better poets who come after him. So one person’s small beginning can become the starting point for something greater.

That makes the line especially meaningful coming from Dante. His Divine Comedy began as the work of one poet writing in exile. But it ultimately became one of the foundational works of Western literature.

Related: Quote of the Day: Mary Shelley on Resilience and Beginning Again

Dante’s quote is about possibility. We often cannot know the ultimate impact of a thought, an idea, a conversation or a creative act when it first begins. What looks like a tiny spark in the moment may eventually illuminate an entire path.

The quote can also be seen as a reminder not to underestimate beginnings. A small act of courage, a new idea or a creative impulse may contain the potential for something much larger. The important thing is that the spark is allowed to ignite.

Dante’s life was marked by great uncertainty. He lost his home through exile and spent years moving from place to place. Yet he continued to write. The circumstances surrounding him were not ideal, but he kept feeding the flame of his intellectual and creative life.

This line reminds us that greatness does not always announce itself at the beginning. Sometimes it starts quietly. It is first a thought, a question, a few words on a page. We may not recognize the flame that is waiting inside the spark.

Dante died in Ravenna in September 1321, reportedly after returning from a diplomatic mission to Venice. More than seven centuries later, the flame he helped kindle is still burning.

“The love that moves the sun and the other stars.”

“You were not made to live like brutes, but to follow virtue and knowledge.”

“And thence we came forth to see again the stars.”

“Follow your own path, and let people talk.”

“The more a thing is perfect, the more it feels pleasure and pain.”

“O human race, born to fly upward, wherefore at a little wind dost thou so fall?”

Next: Alison Sweeney on Why Success Isn’t a Straight Line

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As summer gives way to fall, there’s one change we can count on besides cooler temperatures: The sun starts calling it a day earlier. The same everyday errands that happened in broad daylight in July, like taking out the garbage, walking the dog, grabbing something from the car, or sitting on the deck after dinner, are happening in the dark. And while flipping on an outdoor light works when you’re standing right next to the switch, it’s less convenient when you’re halfway down the driveway.

That’s where automatic lighting comes in handy. If you’re looking for some, the Szrsth Solar Outdoor Lights are currently just $19 at Walmart, down 50% from their typical $39 price tag thanks to a Walmart flash deal. With four in the set, the math works out to you paying less than $5 per light. Spread them around walkways, entrances, the garage, or other darker spots around the house for a little more visibility as the evenings get longer.

Courtesy of Walmart

The four-pack is designed to work without being plugged into an outlet, powered by built-in solar panels. During the day, each light collects energy from the sun and stores it in a 1,200 milliamp-hour lithium-ion battery, so the lights have power to use after dark. The manufacturer says they can provide more than 12 hours of lighting after a full charge, which means you can let all four soak up some sunshine and then have them ready for the evening. In other words, there’s no wiring to run, no batteries to swap out, and no need to remember to charge each light yourself. 

The motion sensor is where the convenience really kicks in. Rather than staying lit all night, each light detects movement within about a 120-degree range and up to 3 meters, or roughly 10 feet, and switches on when someone approaches. This feature can be especially handy with a four-pack because you can spread the lights around different parts of your outdoor space, such as near the back door, along a walkway, by the garage, or beside the driveway. 

Each one contains 12 light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, which produce a bright, cool-white light. The lights stay on for about 10 seconds after detecting movement, then switch off again, helping conserve the energy stored during the day. There’s also an automatic setting, so once they’re installed, you can mostly forget about them and let them handle the lighting whenever they sense activity.

These lights have an IP64 weather-resistance rating, which means they’re protected against dust and water from all angles, and they’re designed to withstand heat and everyday outdoor conditions. Each compact light measures about 4.9 inches long by 3.8 inches wide by 1.9 inches high, so they can tuck neatly along walls, fences, steps, porches, and other spots where you want light without a bulky fixture. 

Installation is also straightforward with the included screws, making it easy to position all four lights around your property. Use them to brighten the path to the trash cans, illuminate the steps when you’re coming home late, or add some extra visibility around entrances and other darker areas.

Walmart shoppers had plenty of praise for these “extremely bright” and “quick-to-activate” fixtures, saying that the “light covers a large area” and “would stop anyone in their tracks that didn’t know the lights were there.” One reviewer wrote, “The motion sensors are spot-on, lighting up instantly when someone walks. What I love most is that they’re 100% wireless and solar-powered, so no running cords or paying extra on my power bill.”

Related: Walmart’s Owl Solar Light Is the ‘Perfect’ Halloween Accent for a Spooky Garden This Fall

If you want to experience the “peace of mind” that shoppers said the Szrsth Solar Outdoor Lights bring, shop them now at Walmart while they’re still over 50% off! 

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Today’s NYT Connections Sports Edition puzzle covers everything from equally yoked games, players with the same last name and plays you can make on ice.

Get excited—there’s another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you’re looking for some hints and answers for today’s Connections Sports Edition on Monday, September 14, 2026, you’ve come to the right place.

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The New York Times

Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it’s a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It’s up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.

This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.

As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you “group sports terms that share a common thread.”

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You’ll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.

• Yellow: Split down the middle.
• Green: Plays on ice.
• Blue: Milwaukee greats.
• Purple: We’re not getting any…

OK, time for a second hint…we’ll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!

• Yellow: EVEN MATCH
• Green: TYPES OF HOCKEY SHOTS
• Blue: BREWERS TO WIN MVP
• Purple: _____ YOUNG

If you’re looking for the answers, no worries—we’ve got them below. So, don’t scroll any further if you don’t want to see the solutions!

The answers to today’s Connections Sports Edition #721 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

• EVEN MATCH: DEADLOCK, DRAW, STALEMATE, TIE
• TYPES OF HOCKEY SHOTS: BACKHAND, SLAP, SNAP, WRIST
• BREWERS TO WIN MVP: BRAUN, FINGERS, YELICH
  YOUNT
• _____ YOUNG: BRYCE, CY, STEVE, TRAE

Don’t worry if you didn’t get them this time—we’ve all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

Related: This Gordon Ramsay-Approved Cookware Brand Just Ditched Its Signature Palette for a Splash of Color—and We Want Them All

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If you’ve been looking for an easy way to make clutter disappear without taking over your whole room this fall, Walmart has Costway’s 10-Drawer Rolling Storage Cart on sale starting at $42. It comes in 12 color options, including rainbow, hot pink, macaron, clear, white, purple, yellow, and more.

The cart is designed to be compact while still offering plenty of storage. It measures 15 inches long by 13 inches wide and 34 inches high, with a wide top surface for easy access to your most-used items. The metal frame provides stability, and the drawers are removable. Plus, the four wheels make it easy to roll from room to room, and two are lockable to keep the cart from rolling away.

Courtesy of Walmart

Teachers use it to separate markers, worksheets, and classroom extras. Crafters appreciate being able to organize supplies by category, such as sewing tools in one drawer, beads in another, and paint supplies in their own section. It also works well as a small tool organizer or a rolling beauty setup if you’re trying to keep makeup, hair styling items, or skincare in one place.

Shoppers have said it’s “very cute and functional” and “perfect to keep paper, stickers, and all supplies organized.” One reviewer wrote, “This is great for all my craft needs. Everything is organized and in one place,” noting, “It was very easy to assemble.”

Related: Walmart’s Owl Solar Light Is the ‘Perfect’ Halloween Accent for a Spooky Garden This Fall

You can tuck it next to a desk as an “everything drawer” station, roll it into a closet when company comes over, or use the colorful versions to brighten up a craft corner. It’s also a super clean way to store trays, tools, and backups without mixing everything together.

Costway’s 10-Drawer Rolling Storage Cart is a super practical purchase if you’re looking to get organized this spring cleaning season, and at $42, now is a great time to grab it. Be sure to snag yours now at Walmart before the price goes back up. Happy organizing! 

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Today’s NYT Strands puzzle answers might completely shock you.

Move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times‘ recent game, “Strands,” is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.

With daily themes and “spangrams” to discover, this is the latest addictive game to cross off your to-do list before a new one pops up 24 hours later.

We’ll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today’s Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #925 on Monday, September 14.

The New York Times

According to the New York Times, here’s exactly how to play Strands:

Find theme words to fill the board.

• Theme words stay highlighted in blue when found.
• Drag or tap letters to create words. If tapping, double-tap the last letter to submit.
• Theme words fill the board entirely. No theme words overlap.

Find the “spangram.”

• The spangram describes the puzzle’s theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words.
• The spangram highlights in yellow when found.
• An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR, FRUIT, BANANA, APPLE, etc.

Need a hint?

• Find non-theme words to get hints.
• For every three non-theme words you find, you earn a hint.
• Hints show the letters of a theme word. If there is already an active hint on the board, a hint will show that word’s letter order.

If that doesn’t help, here’s a hint for today’s Strands game: I don’t believe it!

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

In today’s puzzle, there are seven theme words to find (including the spangram). Here are the first two letters for each word:

• FR
• SH
• EX
• RE
• GA
• ST
• TH (SPANGRAM)

Today’s Spangram is a mix of vertical and horizontal.

Today’s Spangram answer for today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram, and Answers for Monday, September 14, 2026, is THATSSHOCKING.

• FREEZE
• SHUDDER
• EXCLAIM
• RECOIL
• GASP
• START
• SPANGRAM: THATSSHOCKING

Related: 7 Aldi Pantry Staples That Professional Chefs Actually Keep in Their Kitchens

Some songs arrive on the charts immediately. Others spend years waiting for the right voices to find them.

Townes Van Zandt first recorded “Pancho and Lefty” for his 1972 album The Late Great Townes Van Zandt. Eleven years later, Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard transformed the mysterious outlaw ballad into a country hit, taking their duet to No. 1 in 1983.

Van Zandt had been writing songs since the mid-1960s, after getting his start performing covers in Houston clubs. His own recordings never brought him the commercial success enjoyed by many of the artists who admired him, but songs including “If I Needed You,” “To Live Is to Fly” and “Pancho and Lefty” established him as one of Texas’ most influential songwriters. That path began at Houston’s Jester Lounge, where he played for $10 a night.

“Pancho and Lefty” tells the story of two men tied together by crime, betrayal and regret. Pancho dies in the Mexican desert, while Lefty escapes to Ohio with money whose source the narrator leaves unexplained. Van Zandt never settles exactly what happened between them, allowing listeners to decide whether Lefty betrayed his companion or simply survived him.

The song initially attracted little attention, but Emmylou Harris helped carry it to a larger audience when she recorded it for her 1977 album Luxury Liner. Harris later described the track as a pivotal part of her repertoire and told The Guardian, “I planted my flag right there.” Her recording would eventually lead Nelson to the song.

Nelson and Haggard were already deep into work on a collaborative album when Nelson decided they still needed a standout single. He brought “Pancho and Lefty” to Haggard, who had been sleeping on his bus after several exhausting days. Haggard planned to replace his tired vocal the next morning, but the recording was already on its way to New York.

As Haggard later recounted, Nelson woke him with four simple words: “I found us a song.” Van Zandt was characteristically modest about creating it, saying, “It came through me. It’s a real nice song.”

The prediction was right. Nelson and Haggard made the song the title track of their 1983 album, and their contrasting voices suited its two central characters: Nelson sounded weathered and elusive, while Haggard brought weight to Lefty’s remorse. Their version reached No. 1 on the country chart, becoming the biggest hit written by Van Zandt.

“Pancho and Lefty” endured because success did not solve its mystery. Nelson and Haggard gave the song a broader audience, but they preserved the uncertainty at its center. More than a decade after Van Zandt first recorded it, two of country music’s most recognizable voices finally made millions of listeners wonder what really happened between Pancho and Lefty.

Related: 1972 Folk Song, Covered by Elvis Presley, Is Still a Powerful Hit 54 Years Later

To solve today’s New York Times Connections puzzle, you’ll need to know a little bit about animals of the avian variety, have some understanding of what makes a great lawn, be familiar with common items you likely throw away, and maybe know Scarface word for word.

There’s nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, Strands, Mini Crossword and Connections Sports Edition word games in one fell swoop. But sometimes that can be easier said than done. If you need help with today’s Connections puzzle, keep reading.

Spoilers ahead! We’ve warned you. We mean it. Read no further until you really want some clues or you’ve completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today’s NYT ‘Connections’ hints and answers for #1191 on Monday, September 14, 2026.

The New York Times

If you’ve been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Monday’s puzzle, you’re not alone, and these hints should definitely help you out. Plus, I’ll reveal the answers further down.

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You’ll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

1. Fowls that love to swim.
2. The source of a leak.
3. One and done.
4. Great, but not for lawns.

Related: 300 Trivia Questions and Answers to Jumpstart Your Fun Game Night

Ready for the answers? Scroll below this image (the image that represents your very appreciated patience!).

iStock

1. WATERBIRDS: COOT, GOOSE, LOON, TEAL
2. INFORMANT: CANARY, RAT, SNITCH, STOOLIE
3. COMMON SINGLE-USE PLASTIC ITEMS: BAG, CUTLERY, STIRRER, STRAW
4. ___GRASS: BLUE, CRAB, LEMON, WHEAT

How’d you do?

Up Next:

– 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
– Hints, Clues and Answers to the NYT’s ‘Mini Crossword’ Puzzle

Did You Miss a Few Days? Let’s Catch You Up With Recent Connections Answers

Related: 7 Aldi Pantry Staples That Professional Chefs Actually Keep in Their Kitchens

We’re finally down to the wire. Who will be named the big winners at Monday’s Primetime Emmy Awards?

For starters, Mariska Hargitay has already won a pair of statues this year as she strolls into into the show as first-time host. More recently, Variety has gathered additional intel on how things will kick off on September 14.

Given that her favorite basketball team won the NBA Finals earlier this year, it’s now expected that New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson — who also happens to be Hargitay’s buddy — will appear via a pre-tape at the start of the telecast, according to the magazine.

The NBA champion, 30, will reportedly appear at the very start of the show as part of a pre-taped number. Hargitay will then continue that performance live on stage, with dancers and other performers. That will then lead to Hargitay’s opening host monologue.

Meanwhile, the Law & Order: Special Victims Unit star, 62, told Variety last month that Brunson is “definitely” getting a role on her long-running series.

“He’s kind of magnificent that way. He is just open and ready,” Hargitay said at the time. “I don’t think there is much Jalen can’t do.”

Additionally, Variety learned on Sunday, September 13 that Reba McEntire is set to perform a Dolly Parton song in honor of the late icon.

Last week, the beloved TV actress opened up about how Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce‘s wedding may have been the highlight of her summer.

“I am still floating from that wedding,” Hargitay told Jimmy Kimmel in an interview on Wednesday, September 9 when asked about the July Fourth weekend nuptials. “It was so spectacular and so intimate.”

The SVU icon went on to explain that she was “blown away” in regards to how close-knit the ceremony felt since there were so many people in attendance. Find out more here.

Today’s NYT Wordle answer is great for cleaning produce or for getting the suds off your car.

But the day just isn’t complete until I’ve solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword. If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1913 ahead.

Let’s start with a few hints.

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There are two vowels in today’s five-letter word.

Today’s Wordle begins with a consonant.

There are no double letters in today’s Wordle.

A hint for today’s Wordle: ____ and repeat.

OK, that’s it for hints—I don’t want to totally give it away before revealing the answer!

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

We’ll have the answer below this friendly reminder of how to play the game.

SPOILERS BELOW—do not scroll any further if you don’t want the answer revealed.

The New York Times

Today’s Wordle answer on Monday, September 14, 2026, is RINSE.

-If you missed it, catch up with the answer to yesterday’s Wordle.

Related: Every 5 Letter Word Wordle Hasn’t Used Yet (Updated Daily)

Steve Martin’s 1987 comedy movie Planes, Trains, and Automobiles left a lasting mark on cinematic history with its unforgettable characters and timeless humor, earning recognition as one of the best movies of the 1980s.

Thirty-nine years after its release, the John Hughes-directed movie continues to receive recognition, earning spots on various lists of the best and most iconic films.

Among these was a ranking from Rotten Tomatoes, which named 185 Favorite ’80s Movies.

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles ranked No. 41 with a 93 percent Tomatometer score, which shows the percentage of critics who gave the movie positive reviews.

Moreover, the enduring charm of the comedy film earned it a spot on IndieWire’s 20 Best Thanksgiving Movies, where it took the No. 2 spot.

Paramount/Getty Images

Starring Steve Martin and John Candy as the lead duo, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles centers on the journey of Neal Page (Martin), a wealthy, high-strung marketing executive who is desperate to get home to celebrate Thanksgiving with his family in Chicago.

The trip turns into a holiday travel nightmare after the boisterous, talkative yet optimistic salesman Del Griffith (Candy) becomes his accidental travel buddy.

Because of the unpredictable weather, the mismatched duo had to find every available transportation option to get to their destination, transforming a three-day journey into an absolute disaster.

Despite a modest performance at the box office, with a global gross of $49.5 million against a production budget of roughly $15 million, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles achieved its holiday classic status and eventually became a cultural phenomenon.

Besides the undeniable chemistry between Steve Martin and John Candy, viewers were drawn to the perfect balance between the laugh-out-loud slapstick and the emotional depth and relatability of the film, which was based on the director’s personal experience.

Like Neal Page, Hughes worked in advertising and experienced a horrific real-life travel nightmare after flying from Chicago to New York for a morning presentation before attempting to return to Chicago by 5 p.m. the same day.

Unfortunately, the weather was so bad that his flight out of LaGuardia Airport was canceled and he was rerouted to Des Moines before being diverted to Denver, then Phoenix, resulting in a five-day journey back to Chicago.

“I finally got a flight that went to Des Moines, but Des Moines was snowed in, so we diverted to Denver,” he said in an interview, adding, “From Denver, I couldn’t get back to Chicago, so I stayed on the plane and took it to Phoenix. I told my boss, ‘Well, Phoenix is warmer.’ When all was said and done, it took me five days to get back to Chicago from New York.”

That chaotic trip ultimately inspired a beloved comedy that generations have continued to enjoy decades after its release.

Related: 1990 Liam Neeson Film Ranked Among ‘Greatest Superhero Movies’ That Are Underrated

Kelly Clarkson has covered her fair share of beloved songs over the years, but her take on one Eagles classic had fans hearing the rock classic in a whole new way.

The singer put her own spin on “Heartache Tonight” during a 2022 “Kellyoke” performance on The Kelly Clarkson Show, lending her powerful vocals to the band’s 1979 hit.

Originally released in 1979 as the lead single from the Eagles 1979 album The Long Run, “Heartache Tonight” quickly became a major success for the band, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in November of that year. The song was the band’s fifth and final song to ever reach No. 1 on the all-genre singles chart, following their other chart-toppers, “Best of My Love,” “One of These Nights,” “New Kid in Town” and “Hotel California.”

More than four decades after its release, Clarkson brought “Heartache Tonight” back into the spotlight with her “Kellyoke” rendition in February 2022. Her version showcased the soaring vocals that have helped her become known as the queen of covers, while giving fans a chance to hear the familiar Eagles classic in her unmistakable style.

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And “Heartache Tonight” wouldn’t be the only song from the Eagles catalog to get “Clarksoned,” as the powerhouse songstress also took on the group’s beloved track “Desperado” in 2023.

Both “Desperado” and “Heartache Tonight” have been ranked as some of the best songs from the Eagles discography, according to multiple music magazines. Rolling Stone ranked “Heartache Tonight” at No. 10 on a 2019 roundup of the Eagles’ best songs, while “Desperado” was placed at No. 3.

Billboard also included both tracks on a 2023 ranking of the Top 15 Eagles tracks, with “Heartache Tonight” placing at No. 11, and “Desperado” at No. 2.

Related: 1973 Rock Classic, Reimagined by Alan Jackson, Is Considered One of the ‘Best Eagles Songs’

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Parade and ShopHQ are both owned by the same parent company. Featured products are selected independently by the editorial team at Parade.

Some jewelry just looks like it belongs on the set of an old movie — like something Elizabeth Taylor might’ve worn in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Think elegant, but still eye-catching, with enough sparkle to dress up even the simplest of outfits. This type of timeless style can be hard to come by at an affordable price. However, we found a pair of dazzling gemstone earrings with an heirloom-inspired design that would’ve fit right in during Hollywood’s gilded era. 

Normally $152, the Gem Treasures 18-Karat Vermeil Garnet and White Topaz Earrings are currently discounted by over 40% at ShopHQ, dropping the price to $90. The combination of red garnets and white topaz delivers polished, old-Hollywood sparkle, but they also offer just enough festive contrast to carry your look from fall gatherings through the holiday season.

Courtesy of ShopHQ

Each earring measures just over 1 inch long with five dainty octagonal stones. So even though they’ll add plenty of glam to your look, they’re not overwhelming to wear. The vermeil base is made from sterling silver coated in a thick layer of 18-karat yellow gold, adding timeless shine and durability to the design.

The garnet gemstones are a deep red color that verges on maroon, which could work as an accent to fall attire or to dress up your Thanksgiving outfit. However, the alternating white topaz and garnet stones have an appearance that’s similar to a candy cane, making these earrings a fabulous way to add some holiday flair to any outfit through Christmastime.

Speaking of the holiday season, it’s not too early to start thinking ahead about gifts. At under $100, these earrings are a fantastic choice if you’re looking to snag some luxurious jewelry for a loved one without overspending. They’d also make a great anniversary or birthday present.

For a limited time, ShopHQ is offering free shipping on orders over $50 with the code SHIP50. These earrings qualify for the discount, but you’ll need to add the code at checkout to secure free shipping. 

• Gem Treasures 18-Karat Vermeil Garnet and Zircon Charm Earrings, $125 (were $80) at ShopHQ
• Gem Treasures Sterling Silver White Topaz Graduated Inside-Out Hoop Earrings, $100 (were $167) at ShopHQ
• Gem Treasures White Topaz and Zircon Heart Dangle Earrings, $85 (were $135) at ShopHQ

Related: Bring Quiet Luxury to Your Daily Jewelry Rotation With Delicate Under-$50 Gemstone Earrings

Bring a touch of classic glamor to any outfit with the Gem Treasures 18-Karat Vermeil Garnet and White Topaz Earrings. Head to ShopHQ and snag them now while they’re 40% off before this clearance deal is gone for good!

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.