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The Best Fine Dining Restaurant in America Isn't In New York—It's in a Southern Town Full of Cobblestone Streets, Romantic Coastal Views and Rich History

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 6:21am

Here's something that'll surprise you: out of eight million restaurants worldwide, fewer than one percent earn TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards Best of the Best title. It's the kind of recognition that takes serious consistency, exceptional service, and food that actually lives up to the hype. Revival, a modern Southern eatery tucked into Charleston, South Carolina, just joined that exclusive club and claimed the #1 spot for fine dining in the entire nation.

According to its many fans, Revival gets it right by doing the basics better than anyone else: sourcing locally, preparing seafood as it should be, and treating guests like actual people rather than table numbers. The shrimp and grits have become legendary, while the cocktails and fresh catch keep people coming back. Diners rave about servers who actually know the menu and treat you like a guest, not a cover number.

As it turns out, Revival is just the beginning. The real reason to go to Charleston isn't just the growing food scene—it's the whole vibe of the place.

Related: One of America’s Most Underrated Destinations Has Tropical Blue Waters, Tasty Seafood, and Sea Caves—and It’s in the Midwest

Beyond the Plate: Why Charleston Is Actually Worth More Than Just Dinner

Charleston feels less like an American city and more like stepping into a time machine. Founded in 1670, it's got that rare combination of genuine history and living charm. Walk through the Historic District, and you'll find over 1,400 preserved buildings—not in a sterile, museum-like way, but as actual places where people live, work, and gather. 

South of Broad is where the magic really happens. Picture grand mansions, manicured gardens, and cobblestone streets so picturesque you'll stop every five minutes to take a photo. The French Quarter feels like you've wandered into a European village, complete with gas lamps and the Dock Street Theatre, which, fun fact, was literally the first building in America built just for theater back in 1736.

Rainbow Row, a stretch of pastel-colored Georgian houses, is social media content heaven. The Battery offers sweeping harbor views and connects you to the city's Civil War history. And be sure to pay close attention to the wrought-iron gates throughout the city. Those aren't just decorative—many were crafted by legendary ironworker Philip Simmons, who created over 500 of them throughout his career.

Wander through enough streets, and you realize this place has stories embedded in every brick and cobblestone.

If you’re looking for more fine dining bucket list options across the country, check out the rest of TripAdvisor’s winners in the category.

Related: This Under‑the‑Radar Southern City Was Just Named a Top Travel Destination for Its Horse Farms, Bourbon Tours, and Rising Food Scene

Top 10 Fine Dining Restaurants on TripAdvisor's List
  1. Revival – Charleston, South Carolina
  2. Sazón – Santa Fe, New Mexico
  3. Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern – Raleigh, North Carolina
  4. Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina – Nashville, Tennessee
  5. La Grande Boucherie – Chicago, Illinois
  6. Brenner's on the River Walk – San Antonio, Texas
  7. Primal Steakhouse – Las Vegas, Nevada
  8. Club A Steakhouse – New York City, New York
  9. Gallaghers Steakhouse – New York City, New York
  10. Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse – Lake Charles, Louisiana

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This is the Best South Florida Beach Getaway Right Now—And It's Not Miami

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 6:10am

Named after the storied city in Italy, with its own Bay of Naples and a long curve of Gulf Coast sand, Naples has always felt more Mediterranean-minded than Miami-bright. Forbes Travel Guide notes that the city has 10 miles of beach, a 1,000-foot fishing pier, major resorts, full-service spas, and more than 60 golf courses, but the appeal is not just what’s there, it’s how quietly it all unfolds.

This is the Florida beach trip for people who want the polish without the pulse check. Miami is dinner at 10, a dress code you didn’t know about, and a lobby that feels like a casting call. Naples is a long beach morning, a very good lunch, a sunset walk, and the rare vacation rhythm that doesn’t ask you to keep proving you’re having fun.

Angela Rohaidy, a pro travel advisor with FORA, says, “Normally, people think of Naples as a retirement community, which gives it a relaxed, low-key vibe. Compared to Miami or Palm Beach/Boca Raton, it's more family-oriented, laid-back, and the wealth is silent, a true ‘quiet luxury’ destination.”

Related: The South Florida 'Slow-Burn' Shore That's Finally Having Its Big Moment

Why Now

Four seasons hotels

With new hotels like Naples Beach Club, A Four Seasons Resort, restaurants celebrating a more modern side of Gulf Coast dining, fresh national attention for its beaches, and expanded air service into Southwest Florida, Naples is finally earning its spot in the limelight. The city’s biggest opening is the Four Seasons, which debuted in November 2025 on 1,000 feet of white-sand beach, while chef Kayla Pfeiffer’s Bicyclette Cookshop and Heyday Cookshop are helping push the dining scene past its old reputation for predictable resort-town fare.

Liz Valdez, owner of Paradise Food Tours, is happy to see her town having a renaissance. “Naples feels more compelling than ever because people go home feeling refreshed. That is an uncommon experience for most vacationers, in a world trying to constantly market them into doing/having/seeing more. The idea of unplugging from the world is most desirable in a place where everyone else is doing it—and in Naples, people really know how to enjoy the luxury of simple: fresh air and food, exercise, rest, and connection.”

Aerial Views of Delnor-wiggins State Park Beach in Naples, Florida

Getty

The timing is also ever so practical, thanks to Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park landing at No. 4 on Dr. Beach’s 2025 list of the best beaches in the U.S.. Additionally, Southwest Florida International Airport now connects nonstop to 69 destinations on 15 airlines, with new Allegiant routes adding direct access from Allentown, Appleton and Des Moines. Naples is still quieter than Miami, but it no longer feels sleepy.

Where to Stay

Ritz Carlton

You'd be remiss not to book a few nights at the new Naples Beach Club, A Four Seasons Resort. This brand new property has rooms and suites with furnished terraces, including ocean-view studio suites and larger one-bedroom options like the Magnolia Suite. In addition to the breathtaking beach, the hotel has a renowned spa, three pools (including one on the rooftop), water sports, e-bike rentals through Old Naples, and oceanfront dining at revived local favorites HB’s and Sunset Bar. Book well ahead in winter and spring, especially for ocean-view rooms.

For classic beachfront luxury, The Ritz-Carlton Naples is still a fan-favorite, with stunning views of the Gulf, 474 recently renovated guest rooms and suites, and a staggering 51,000-square foot spa. Its sister property, The Ritz-Carlton Naples Tiburón, has 295 rooms and is better suited for those craving golf and family-suited amenities like waterslides and kids clubs. Guests can access amenities at both Ritz-Carlton properties, which gives the trip more flexibility than a single-resort stay.

For families who want space without giving up the beach, Edgewater Beach Hotel is the ultimate all-in-one. One-bedroom suites are 700 square feet with kitchens and private balconies, while two-bedroom suites run 950 to 1,100 square feet, also with kitchens and balconies, which makes it easier than ever to relax your schedule even more. The best part? It's right on the beach, so you can wake up and run to the water (something I do often with my busy and bustling 7-year-old).

Related: This Florida Gem is Celebrating a Century of Barefoot Luxury

Where to Play The sun sets over the pristine Gulf Coast waters in Naples, Florida—the ultimate destination for quiet luxury.

Getty

Start with the beaches, because that’s one of Naples’ biggest draws. Lowdermilk Park is a local and tourist favorite alike, with parking, volleyball courts, a playground, picnic tables, restrooms, showers, gazebos, ADA beach mats, and a concession stand for casual food and rentals. It is open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.; you don’t need to book ahead, but parking is pay-by-space for visitors and fills quickly in season.

For a more local-feeling beach, go to Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park in North Naples, a quieter favorite for shell-searching, uncrowded swimming, and a little more breathing room than some of the busier stretches of sand. It's open 8 a.m. to sundown and costs less than $10 to visit. Arrive early, because the park temporarily closes to new vehicles when parking is full.

Beyond the beach, there's still plenty to do in town. As Rohaidy says, “The best days in Naples are spent outside, playing golf or tennis or hanging out by the pool, all without a phone.” For a beach with a little arrival ritual, Clam Pass Park has a three-quarter-mile boardwalk through 35 acres of coastal habitat, plus a free tram to the sand and a $10 parking fee for visitors without a Collier County beach permit.

To get on the water, book Pure Florida’s 90-minute Naples Sightseeing Day Cruise from Tin City. For a break from the beach, Naples Botanical Garden is worth the detour for its palms, water lilies, orchids, and quiet walking paths that feel worlds away from the resort strip. If you want something more social, head to the USOP National Pickleball Center, where Naples’ pickleball obsession is on full display and visitors can jump into the scene without making a whole day of it.

The best shopping in Naples is in Old Naples, especially Third Street South and Fifth Avenue South, where you can duck into local boutiques, galleries, jewelry shops, and home stores between lunch and the beach. Start with Marissa Collections on Third Street South for designer clothing and fine jewelry, then wander Fifth Avenue South for smaller boutiques and art galleries that feel very Palm Beach-esque.

Related: I Spent 5 Years Working on Cruise Ships and This Is the One Port You Shouldn’t Skip

Where to Eat

Getty Images

Breakfast & Brunch

For a casual breakfast, EJ’s Bayfront Cafe is both delicious and budget-friendly. You have to start with the seafood, so the smoked salmon Benedict, Bayfront scramble, or crab and shrimp omelet is the way to go. For a more aesthetic Old Naples brunch, go to Jane’s Cafe on 3rd for the smashed avocado toast, seafood crabby patty Benedict, Mexican hash or Queen of Croissants. They also have gourmet coffees and juices, including oat milk lattees and fresh-pressed strawberry orange.

Can’t-Miss Lunch

Naples does relaxed seafood lunch especially well. Rohaidy says the restaurant scene is “thriving locally” and “not like Miami, Palm Beach or Boca, full of instagram restaurants and transplants from bigger cities.” Her pick is La Pescheria on Fifth Avenue South, a family-run Italian seafood spot she calls “one of my favorites, like walking home.” Order the branzino meatballs, gnocchetti with Sicilian red prawns, caserecce with branzino and lemon, or a whole fish grilled, baked or salt-crusted.

For something more casual, go to The Dock at Crayton Cove for waterfront drinks, grouper, and blackened fish tacos. It’s old-school Naples in the best way: unfussy, on the water, and better when you are still a little salty from the beach.

Dinner

“Naples’ food scene is under-reviewed and a hidden gem for well traveled guests of discerning taste. Many renowned chefs retire to Naples to launch their own concepts. Kayla Pfeiffer is an excellent example of this—she's a 2025 James Beard Award semifinalist who won Food Network’s show Chopped before launching her own restaurant called Bicyclette Cookshop in north Naples," Valdez says.

Book Bicyclette Cookshop for the dinner that makes Naples feel more current. Order the caviar with Bugles, snapper ceviche, roasted branzino, wagyu smashburger, or whatever fish looks best that night. For a bigger splurge, go to Sails for seafood towers, fresh fish, and a polished Fifth Avenue dinner; for something warmer and less formal, Mediterrano brings coastal Mediterranean dishes like branzino, seafood pasta, lamb, and Moroccan salmon just off Fifth Avenue.

Food Tour

For a first night, book Paradise Food Tours on Fifth Avenue South. Valdez says the perfect Naples day might include “a leisurely food tour of 5th Ave S to enjoy 5 tastings, then a boat tour of the bay to see the homes and backyards of the uber-rich from the water.” It’s a good way to taste Old Naples without turning every meal into a separate reservation.

Related: This Is One of the Best Florida Escapes for Art Lovers—and It’s Not Miami

Olipop’s Soda-Inspired Lip Balms Are The Nostalgia Hit We Needed

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 6:00am

Olipop and Space Camp Wellness have just launched a first-of-its-kind collaboration that is going to have kids of the 80s, 90s and early 00s experiencing a wave of nostalgia. The brands came together to create a line of soda-inspired lip balms, bridging the flavors of Olipop drinks with the formula of Space Camp Wellness lip balms.

Like the Dr. Pepper Lip Smackers of decades past but with a modern twist, Olipop and Space Camp Wellness' new balms draw inspiration from real soda flavors. The four new lip balm flavors include: Cream Soda, Vintage Cola, Shirley Temple and Crisp Apple, all of which correspond to actual Olipop drink flavors.

The collaboration between the two companies was a natural fit, particularly for a nostalgic product line such as this one, as each brand aims to offer consumers familiar products but with better-for-you ingredients. As with all other Space Camp Wellness products, the soda-inspired lip balms are free of synthetic ingredients as well as parabens, sulfates, artificial color and silicones. The balms are also cruelty-free, gluten-free and not tinted, to be more accessible to a broader range of wearers.

Olipop is similarly gluten-free, as well as non-GMO and vegan, and the brand is focused on providing bubbly beverage lovers with a healthier alternative to traditional sodas by offering time-tested flavors like Classic Root Beer and Vintage Cola in cans that contain just two to five grams of sugar and six to nine grams of fiber.

With their shared vision of creating classic, tried and true products with ingredients that are better suited to modern consumers, Olipop and Space Camp Wellness have come together to create a line of nostalgia-fueled, soda-inspired lip balms that will be hitting the market just in time for summer.

These new balms are launching on May 14, and they will be available for purchase exclusively at Target.

1963 Brian Wilson Ballad, Ranked as One of His Best Songs Ever, Was Inspired by a Disney Classic

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 5:46am

Long before it was hailed as one of the greatest songs of Brian Wilson’s career, the Beach Boys visionary drew inspiration from a beloved Walt Disney film melody to craft a hauntingly wistful 1963 ballad.

"Surfer Girl" was released on August 3, 1963, and it reached No. 7 on the Billboard charts by September 14 of that same year. Backed by "Little Deuce Coupe," the song was a double hit for the band, with the single's B-side reaching No. 15 on the charts.

The tune was the first time Wilson was credited as a solo writer and producer for a Beach Boys song, reports U Discover Music. The song was written two years prior, when he was just 19 and was said to have been inspired by the melody of the Disney classic “When You Wish Upon A Star” from the 1940s animated filmPinocchio.

Wilson was quoted on his official Instagram page about the song's writing process. He explained, “One afternoon, I was in my car, and I thought of a piece that grew into a longer piece. It started with me humming a Disney song, 'When You Wish Upon a Star,' which Dion and the Belmonts sang."

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He continued, "I started humming that, but it changed in my head. It combined with other songs I knew, like the Four Freshmen’s 'Little Girl Blue,' and eventually it didn’t sound like anything I had heard before. It sounded like maybe it was my own. I wrote part of it in my head in my car, and then I finished it when I got back to the house.”

RELATED: 1966 Hauntingly Personal Brian Wilson Song From a Masterpiece Album Ranks Among His Best Ever

In 1990, Wilson elaborated further about the song in the liner notes for the CD release of Surfer Girl/Shut Down, Vol.  2. American Songwriter reprinted those comments.

 “‘Surfer Girl’ was my group’s ballad theme song. It means a lot to me spiritually, and it is really a song about how the group first started singin’ pretty harmonies," he began.

RELATED: 1964 Brian Wilson Smash Based on a True Story Still Ranks Among His Greatest Songs Ever

"The introduction to this song is, at first, a simple one, but if you study the form, it is original. To me, it represents the start of music when we first got movin," Wilson concluded.

In a YouTube video for his official account, Wilson named "Surfer Girl" with "California Girls" as his two favorite Beach Boys songs. He called it his "best ballad achievement."

Variety ranked "Surfer Girl" at No. 17 on their list of the 20 Best Brian Wilson Songs. The outlet wrote, "The longing in his voice as he wonders whether he can win the love of that board-wielding wondergirl is an aspirational ache that would continue to power so much of the band’s best numbers."

More than 60 years later, the song remains one of Brian Wilson’s most cherished and emotionally rich recordings.

MORE: 1965 Brian Wilson Timeless Classic Named One of the Best Songs in Music History





Forgotten 1980 Film Starring Teen Rock Star Became a Cult Classic

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 5:42am

In February 1980, the movie Foxes was released to little fanfare. Starring a pre-Yale Jodie Foster, along with Sally Kellerman, Randy Quaid, and a young Scott Baio, the gritty coming-of-age drama about friends growing up in L.A. featured the acting debut of Cherie Currie, the lead singer from the teen glam band The Runaways.

Foxes also marked the film directorial debut of Adrian Lyne, who would go on to helm the megahits Flashdance and Fatal Attraction.

Reviews were mixed. At the time of its release, The New York Times noted, “Foxes bears a certain resemblance to such recent English films as Quadrophenia or That'll Be the Day. It has more glitter than either of these, but less coherence: Adrian Lyne, the director of Foxes, was previously a director of commercials, and he seems to have more flair for mounting scenes fashionably than for stringing them together.”

Foxes earned  $7.4 million at the box office, per Box Office Mojo, but went on to find a cult following thanks to cable and video rentals. Decades later, fans still say the film is underrated.

Cherie Currie looked back on 'Foxes'

Currie initially found fame in the mid-1970s alongside Joan Jett, Lita Ford, Sandy West, and Jackie Fox as part of the all-female punk band The Runaways. When she decided to segue to acting, Foxes seemed like the perfect part. Currie played troubled teen Annie in the film.

In a 2020 interview with Classic Rock, Currie recalled, “Working with Jodie in Foxes was a dream come true. I’d not acted before. I’d had a couple of lessons from my elder sister Sondra, who’s been an actress all her life, but I just played myself. The druggy parts were real easy… I’d been there, done that.”

RELATED: 1976 Rock Rebellion Anthem Was Written in 20 Minutes

More recently, Currie reunited with Baio, who played Brad in Foxes just as he was finding fame as Chachi in Happy Days. During an April 2026 appearance on The Scott Baio Podcast, Currie revealed she was offered parts in both Foxes and the Ramones movie, Rock and Roll High School, at the same time.

“I made the choice to do Foxes,” she shared. “I was just a big fan of [Foster’s film] Taxi Driver and of course [Baio was] on television on just about every show it seemed. So I was very excited to do Foxes.

The actress and singer recalled that it took about two years for Foxes to be completed. “We shot Foxes, I turned 18 on the set,” Currie said. “I mean, it took them quite a while, well over a year and a half to edit and put that film together to come out in 1980 because  we were shooting in ‘78.”

Noting that the film “definitely was” ahead of its time, Currie admitted that it may have been ahead of Lyne’s time as well.

“Adrian, I had no idea that he was going to go on to be such a big-time director,” the Foxes star said. “I was a little pissed at him a little bit to be honest because when I saw Fatal Attraction and I saw Jacob’s Ladder, and I thought, why the hell couldn't you have been a better director when you did Foxes? I just was thinking, why couldn't we have really had a big smash? But that was Adrian's very first film.”

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A Future Christmas Queen Helped Inspire One of Willie Nelson’s Biggest Hits

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 5:39am

More than four decades before Brenda Lee's "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" returned to the top of the charts in a viral holiday resurgence, the legendary singer helped inspire one of country music’s most iconic hits.

On May 14, 1982, Willie Nelson hit No. 1 on the U.S. country charts with "Always on My Mind," his now-classic ballad that would go on to become one of the defining songs of his career.

But many fans don’t realize the song was first recorded years earlier by Lee, 81, in 1972.

The emotional track has since been recorded by more than 300 artists. Upon its release, the tune quickly became a favorite among musicians across genres. Later that same year, Elvis Presley released his own version, turning it into a major hit shortly after his separation from Priscilla Presley.

Still, it was Nelson’s, 93, stripped-down, aching interpretation a decade later that truly cemented the song in country music history.

In fact, it's one of the two songs in Nelson's library that make him "misty" when he plays them. The other? "Angel Flying Too Close to the Ground."

Released as the title track from his 1982 album Always on My Mind, Nelson’s version spent two weeks atop the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and crossed over into the pop charts as well. The song also earned Nelson three Grammy Awards, including Best Male Country Vocal Performance and Song of the Year.

Its success marked yet another major moment during Nelson’s blockbuster early-1980s run, when the outlaw country icon was becoming one of the biggest crossover stars in American music.

More than 40 years after it topped the country charts, Nelson’s version still stands as one of the most beloved heartbreak songs ever recorded.

RELATED: A Country Pioneer Died 51 Years Ago After a Devastating Stroke— Waylon Jennings Made Sure He Was Never Forgotten

Anthropologie's $34 Set of Shatterproof Goblets Are 'Great Outdoor Glasses' for Summer Entertaining

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 5:30am

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To get your home summer-ready, Anthropologie has a selection of outdoor essentials on sale right now for up to 30% off. Among the current deals, one discounted item we're super excited to see is a set of shatterproof glasses with a vintage-inspired design that are incredibly convenient for summertime hosting.

Usually priced at $48, you can snag the Esther Acrylic Goblets Set for just $34 during this Anthropologie sale. The set comes with four matching glasses in your choice of six colors, including peach, raspberry, blue, mint, clear, and sun yellow. 

Esther Acrylic Goblets Set, $34 (was $48) at Anthropologie

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Shop at Anthropologie

These goblets boast a gorgeous beaded trim with a spiralized design that gives them a retro look. Measuring 5 inches tall with a 4-inch diameter and a 12.5-ounce capacity, these goblets are ideal for serving all of your favorite summer beverages from fresh lemonade to iced tea, punch, and sangria. They're also great for mixed drinks and frozen cocktails like margaritas and daiquiris.

These glasses are made from 100% acrylic, so you won't have to worry about them shattering if they're accidentally dropped. They must be hand-washed, but the extra care is well worth fewer worries over broken glass in your pool or on your deck.

Related: Anthropologie's $20 Terracotta Planters Are a 'Fabulous' Spring Home Upgrade With a 'Unique' Look

With their "cute" look and "beautiful" design, customers were happy to use these goblets for serving drinks on their patios and pool decks. Shoppers said the shatterproof design made them "perfect for hosting," calling them "great outdoor glasses" that were especially "great for summer."

During a backyard dinner party, one shopper said, "We had a minor 'oops' moment on the patio, and instead of a disaster of shattered glass, the goblet just bounced!" 

Shop More Deals

Make hosting easy and mess-free this summer with the Esther Acrylic Goblets Set. Anthropologie's 30%-off outdoor living sale won't last long, so snag your favorite color — or a few to mix and match — while the set is still on sale.

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American Airlines Just Unveiled the Ultimate 'Summer of Soccer' Travel Essential

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 5:10am

As the countdown to North America hosting the FIFA World Cup 26 officially hits the home stretch, American Airlines is making sure fans don’t just arrive at the stadium—they arrive match-day ready. On May 13, 2026, the airline unveiled a new collection of limited-edition U.S. Soccer amenity kits that are designed to be used long after you've cleared customs.

The real differentiator for the "carry-on only" crowd is the multi-functional design. These aren’t just disposable pouches; the Flagship First kits are structured clear bags with blue leather piping and a removable crossbody strap, while the Business Class versions can be worn as a belt bag. It’s a functional piece of gear that transitions from the cabin directly into the stadium—a major win considering the strict clear-bag policies at most host venues like MetLife Stadium and SoFi Stadium.

Related: The One Thing You’ll Want to Snag from Your Next American Flight

American Airlines

Inside, the kits are focused on summer-specific recovery. Along with the standard Grown Alchemist staples, American is introducing after-sun cooling gel and soccer-style socks to help combat the heat and fatigue of a cross-country tournament trek.

Caroline Clayton, American’s Chief Marketing Officer, noted that the airline is leaning into the scale of the event: “Not only will we help fly fans to host cities on more flights than any other domestic carrier, but these amenity kits will help build excitement and passion for the tournament—and are match day ready!”

As Clayton put it at the celebration event for the partnership: 'We want a partnership that our customers can experience... it's not a moment, it's a movement.'

Related: Delta and Missoni Just Dropped a New Designer Collection—But You Can Only Get It Onboard

The launch coincides with a massive network expansion. American has added 27,000 seats across 12 key routes—including new nonstops between LGA and Kansas City—to ensure fans can follow the USMNT as they move through the group stages.

For AAdvantage members, the airline has also opened up millions of miles for match ticket redemptions, making the "summer of soccer" a reality for those who have been banking points for years. The kits will be available on international and long-haul domestic flights throughout June and July 2026.

Related: American Airlines Adds New 'Elevated' Snacks in Economy Rotation This Summer

1973 Classic Rock Hit Was Released One Day After Legendary Singer's Death

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 5:02am

On September 20, 1973, Jim Croce was on the cusp of superstardom when he died in a tragic accident. The folk-soft rock singer was just 30 years old when he and five others were killed in a single-engine plane that crashed upon takeoff at Natchitoches Regional Airport in Louisiana, Rolling Stone reported at the time.

The day after his death, Croce’s song "I Got a Name” was released as a posthumous single ahead of the album of the same name. The song, written by legendary songwriting duo Norman Gimbel and Charles Fox, debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 on October 9, 1973, and peaked at No. 10 on November 17 of that year.

Croce had performed the song for fans just one hour before his tragic death. According to Classic Rock, the Philadelphia-based singer-songwriter had finished playing a small show at Northwestern State University just before the plane crash, and for the encore, he introduced his new song titled “I Got A Name.”

Croce’s son, AJ, told the outlet that the song “meant a lot” to his late father. “The content related to his own life as a first-generation Italian/American kid growing up in South Philly,” he said. “Becoming a hobo gypsy musician wasn’t considered a respectable profession. Dad had a master’s degree – he was the first one to go to college. His father thought he was throwing his life away. He had to fight the family to pursue his dream.”

RELATED: 1973’s Last No. 1 Hit  Song Has a Heartbreaking Backstory

‘I Got a Name’ was featured in a movie two months before it was released as a single

“I Got a Name’ was the theme song for the race car movie The Last American Hero, which was released in July 1973. The song played over the opening credits of the Jeff Bridges film.

Croce’s widow, Ingrid, told Songfacts that "I Got a Name" was a rare song that her late husband recorded but didn’t write. “Jim had been selected to sing this song for this particular movie. He really enjoyed this opportunity,” she recalled. “Putting down the guitar to sing, just to sing the song in the studio, was a very unusual thing for Jim, and he thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a brand new start for him in some ways, to use his vocals in a different way. I think it's one of the most powerful songs he does on that album for sure.”

Croce only performed the song a handful of times to promote the movie and his upcoming single. On September 14, 1973, he performed “I Got a Name” live on the NBC variety show The Midnight Special, less than a week before his death.

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Inside Taylor Swift’s Possible Wedding Menu—7 Experts Predict What She and Travis Kelce Could Serve

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 5:01am

Taylor Swift is known for her music, but behind the scenes, she’s built a reputation for other exceptional talents: writing heartfelt notes, hosting cozy dinners, and baking everything from chai cookies to her now-famous sourdough bread.

Over time, those details have become part of her personal brand. So when it comes to her wedding, experts don't expect a standard catering menu, but something far more personal. No doubt the "Love Story" singer will plan a multi-layered, high-energy food experience—one that evolves alongside the celebration rather than sitting neatly on a plate. In other words, this won't just be a menu. It'll be part of their wedding story.

And at the center of it all? A clear sense of intention.

“Guest experience is going to heavily drive the impact,” says event designer Larry Walshe, founder of London-based design studio Larry Walshe Studios. “It’s about designing with intention and thinking about what you want people to feel.”

That philosophy sets the tone for everything that follows, from the first cocktail to the final late-night bite. Read on for expert predictions for Taylor and Travis' upcoming wedding menu.

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Taylor and Travis' Wedding Menu Won't Feel Like a Single Meal Taylor Swift and longtime publicist Tree Paine in 2021

Photo by JMEnternational on Getty Images

Weddings used to follow a predictable rhythm: cocktail hour, dinner, dessert. But that’s no longer the case. “It’s no longer just one moment,” Walshe says, pointing to the rise of celebrations that unfold in phases rather than a single, structured meal.

For a wedding like Swift and Kelce’s, that likely means the menu shifts alongside the night itself. Something lighter and more social at the start, a more grounded dinner, then a return to playful, late-night energy.

And increasingly, how the food is served matters just as much as what’s on the plate. “One of the biggest trends in weddings right now is roaming culinary service,” says Danielle Shapiro, regional director of sales at luxury caterer Abigail Kirsch. “Instead of static stations, food moves through the party, keeping guests engaged.”

In other words, the food doesn’t interrupt the celebration—it becomes part of it.

Related: Taylor Swift Calls This Ina Garten Pasta Her ‘Go-To Dinner Party Dish,’ and I Can See Why

Cocktail Hour: Oysters, Aperitivo and Roaming Trays Jack Antonoff and Taylor Swift holding up their glasses at the Grammys

Photo by Kevin Mazur on Getty Images

If that approach starts anywhere, it’s during cocktail hour.

“I’m seeing couples move away from structured receptions toward more interactive food moments,” says Stefanie Grassley—owner and event coordinator at Tuscan wedding venue Castello di Ristonchi. “Instead of a traditional cocktail hour, they’re creating large aperitivo-style spreads with abundant food displays where guests can explore and mingle, things like a giant Parmesan wheel or a prosciutto carving station.”

Wedding venue owner Stefanie Grassley predicts long tables with beautiful charcuterie boards.

Photo by Smith Collection/Gado on Getty Images

Experts don’t picture a standard lineup of passed appetizers and a crowded bar. Instead, they predict something more immersive. Think servers circulating with trays of oysters, lobster rolls and beautifully styled small bites that feel just as considered as everything else.

Shapiro points to live oyster shucking and roaming raw bars as standout moments, especially if the couple leans into a coastal influence.

Others picture something more layered and visually rich. “I imagine a Taylor Swift wedding beginning with an abundant aperitivo,” Grassley adds. “Long tables overflowing with beautifully plated charcuterie where every plate looks like artwork.”

The goal isn’t structure. It’s atmosphere. Guests move, mingle and snack without ever stepping away from the moment.

Related: ‘Mastermind’ Indeed! Taylor Swift’s Net Worth in 2026 and How She Achieved Billionaire Status

Dinner: Taylor's Italian Roots Meet Travis' Steakhouse

When it’s time to sit down, the tone shifts again, but not too far. Experts expect a menu that feels elevated without being overly formal, something that blends high-end dining with familiar favorites.

“As a nod to the steakhouse Travis Kelce co-owns, we expect the highest quality steaks to be on their dinner reception menu,” says chef Meg Walker, executive chef and CEO of MBM Hospitality.

“You’d likely see a mix of influences, barbecue for Travis and Italian elements for Taylor,” adds Chef Chris Nguyen, executive chef at Constellation Culinary Group, who has cooked for the Pope. “Family-style service would make sense. They both come across as very family-oriented.”

Travis Kelce sizes up a massive sandwich.

Photo by Kyle Rivas on Getty Images

At the same time, there’s room for a more relaxed side.

“I’d expect the menu to feel elevated, but American-classic themed,” saysZoe Burke, a wedding expert and head of brand at Bridebook, the UK's leading wedding planning app. Burke predicts dishes like gourmet sliders, fried chicken canapés and New England seafood.

“The goal would be high-end food that still feels enjoyable and not stuffy,” Nguyen adds.

Taylor’s Baking Era Will Show Up Taylor's future sister-in-law, Kylie Kelce, says Swift's sourdough bread is "banging."

Photo by Smith Collection/Gado on Getty Images

Some of the most memorable details may show up in quieter ways. Swift’s love of baking has become a defining part of how she hosts, and it’s easy to imagine that influence carrying into the wedding itself.

“It’s the small things that people remember,” Walshe says, noting that even simple elements can feel special when they’re thoughtfully considered.

That could take shape in a beautifully presented bread course, a nod to a favorite recipe or a dessert detail that only close friends and family immediately recognize. Nothing over the top, just thoughtful.

The Dessert Course: Affogato, Towers and Late-Night Sweets

By the time dessert arrives, the tone is expected to shift again. This is where the structure starts to fall away and the energy picks up.

Shapiro points to interactive moments like affogato carts, where espresso is poured over gelato tableside, or dessert towers that double as visual centerpieces.

Others see it as a turning point in the night. “I could see dessert being the moment where things become more playful,” says Reneille Velez, a wedding planner and founder of GIAN, who imagines trays of the couple’s favorite sweets being passed directly to guests.

Interactive dessert stations or late-night snack setups would fit right in, giving guests options while keeping the energy high.

Donna Kelce's Famous Cookies and Other Family Recipes A platter of Mama Kelce's famous chocolate chip cookies

Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel

Beyond the bigger moments, experts say it’s the personal details that will likely stand out most. That could mean incorporating favorite foods, meaningful recipes or even family traditions in subtle ways.

Donna Kelce’schocolate chip cookies have already become part of the couple’s story, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see a small nod like that woven into the celebration, whether as a dessert option or a late-night takeaway. For Swift, it’s the kind of personal detail that would feel completely on brand.

Late-Night Bites: Finger Foods for Everyone Late-night bites will certainly be available.

Photo by Kevin Mazur on Getty Images

As the night winds down, the menu will likely shift one more time. This is where things get a little more relaxed.

“It would be fun to see burgers and fries passed late in the night, something elevated but still playful,” Nguyen says. “You could pair that with trays of Garage Beer for Travis and Diet Coke for Taylor.”

Think elevated takes on classic comfort food, served as guests move between the dance floor and the after-party. It’s a natural progression, and one that keeps the energy going without overcomplicating things.

Because at a wedding like this, the menu isn’t just something you sit down for. It’s something you move through.

Related: Next Up:

Walmart's $150 Tall Bookcase Is 'Beautiful' and 'Sturdy' With 'Lots of Storage' 

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 4:45am

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If you're looking for a chic and easy way to add some extra storage space to your living room, bedroom, office, or hallway, the Homfa 75-Inch Tall Bookcase at Walmart is worth a look. The top-rated cabinet features multiple tiers of sturdy shelving to display books, collectibles, decor, and other pieces, and it's on sale for up to 44% off right now. 

Originally priced at $270, the versatile bookcase is marked down to just $150 in the stunning, natural colorway with sleek gold hardware. You can also shop it in a brighter green hue and a modern, all-white style at $180, both accented with silver hardware.  

Homfa 75-Inch Tall Bookcase, From $150 (was $270) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The tall, wide cabinet adds ample storage to any home, measuring 12 inches deep by 46 inches wide by 75 inches high. Crafted from high-grade medium-density fiberboard, it has 23 roomy shelves that are perfect for holding books, vases, records, photo frames, and more. Eight of the shelves are adjustable, allowing you to easily accommodate larger items and better customize the space to suit your needs. 

It also has three built-in drawers in the middle, each measuring 14.7 inches wide, 10 inches deep, and 6.5 inches high. Each drawer has an elegant pull handle that allows for effortless opening and closing. With its sleek, modern design, the tall cabinet easily complements any space, whether you're using it as a traditional bookcase, a display piece for collectibles, or simply as extra storage in your office or hallway. 

Related: Walmart's 'Lovely' $25 Bamboo Plant Stand Is a Genius Space-Saver That 'Makes Plants Look Stunning'

The Homfa bookcase has earned plenty of praise from Walmart shoppers for its "pretty and very sturdy" design. One reviewer said it "looks beautiful" in any room, no matter where you place it. Another highlighted its generous size, noting that it adds "lots of storage space" to any home. 

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Upgrade the storage space in your home with this stylish and functional bookcase. It's spacious, elegant, and durable enough to withstand daily use. Snag one while all three colors are still in stock and on sale for up to 44% off at Walmart.

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1976 Classic Film Phenomenon was Written in 'Just Three Days'

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 4:42am

After watching the championship match that took place between Muhammad Ali and Chuck Wepner, actor and filmmaker Sylvester Stallone was struck with an idea. Over the course of just three days, Stallone penned the script (the first he'd ever written) that would become the sports-action-drama film, Rocky.

While most of what Stallone wrote during that time would be cut during significant rewrites, the idea and baseline of the story were there. United Artists liked the script Stallone wrote, but wanted a more established star to play the titular character. Stallone was adamant that he play Rocky, saying he never could have forgiven himself if it went on to be a hit without him in the role. The studio eventually met Stallone's demands, and filming for Rocky started in January of 1976.

Filming for Rocky took place around Philadelphia, and certain elements of the story even evolved during production. Originally, Stallone had Rocky throwing the fight realizing he didn't want to be a part of the boxing world, and the storyline was much darker. Stallone also wrote in dialogue in real time that would end up in the final film.

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While some critics called the movie "gimmicky," Rocky was a massive box office success and Stallone's performance was received with acclaim. Roger Ebert compared him to a "young Marlon Brando" and Box Office Magazine heralded him as "a new star." Awards season agreed, with Stallone nabbing Best Actor and Best Original Screenplay nominations at the Academy Awards for the film.

Rocky has been lauded cinematically over the years and was even preserved by the Library of Congress in 2006. It consistently is ranked on lists as one of the best movies of all time and is considered a must watch amongst cinephiles.

Even though the original "three day" script may not be what graced big and small screens alike, the film that became Rocky is one that has proven to be beyond memorable and worth seeing.

Related: Sylvester Stallone’s 1997 Crime Drama 'Cop Land' Lands TV Series Adaptation

Why This Silent Disco Ballet Is New York City’s Must-See Immersive Attraction This Spring

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 4:10am

A typical New York City tourist checklist can be pretty predictable: a Broadway show, a late-night cocktail and a stop at a museum. But often, everyone is glued to their phones and they're not really connecting with the space around them. What if I told you that a new type of live performance was coming to the city where you could combine all of those things all in one completely immersive experience? Well, there is this spring. New York Theatre Company is debuting the city’s first silent disco ballet, “The Circuit,” an immersive performance where the only reason to reach for your phone is to capture yourself in the middle of the dance floor.

Related: One of NYC’s Most Unexpected New Attractions Is Under Times Square

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This show takes place on the streets of Dumbo, where cast members lead the audience around the different areas in which scenes then begin to unfold. Each audience member has a pair of headphones on, and in those headphones, you're able to hear a unique score written by Jacob Ryan Smith. The music is EDM music, and as you’re listening, there is gorgeous contemporary choreography, created by Josh Zacher, that gets performed by the dancers in the cast.

Related: This Iconic Horror Movie Is Creeping Onto Broadway

This is different from your average dance performance, however. “The Circuit” also has its own script, written by Connor Wentworth. The script was recorded by voice actors, and is played in your ears along with the music. This gives context to the dance that is being performed in front of you, and allows you to feel fully immersed in what is going on in the dancer’s world. It almost feels like you’re a fly on the wall, watching intimate moments within multiple people’s lives, all in one evening.

@thecircuitnyc

THIS SUMMER HEAR A PLAY & ORIGINAL SCORE. DANCER THROUGH THE STREETS OF NEW YORK CITY. Performances begin May 15. DUMBO, BK Link in bio. @nytheatrecompany #thecircuit #nytc #immersivesilentdiscoballet #immersivetheatre #newyorktheatrecompany

♬ original sound - thecircuitnyc

When speaking with the choreographer, Josh Zacher, he shared with us, “I want the audience to feel like their life is bigger after seeing our show. Like they went on a fun, erotic, enthralling New York City adventure."

The play forces you, as the audience, to also connect with those around you. There’s no chance throughout the evening to take a break on your cell phone or to retreat into isolation. It’s bringing back the heart and soul of what has always drawn people to New York City in the first place: feeling alive in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Related: NYC’s Highest Sky Deck Is Turning Into a 1,100-Foot ‘Kaleidoscopic’ Immersive Experience

Performances of The Circuit: An Immersive Silent Disco Ballet begin on May 15th and run through June 29th. You can get tickets at Fever Up, or check out nytheatrecompany.com/thecircuit for more information.

Related: An Honest Review of Norwegian Luna's Entertainment, According to a Former Pro

Prolific 20th-Century Filmmaker Known for Blockbuster Franchises Turns 83

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 3:59am

American filmmaker and philanthropist known for epic franchises like Star Wars and Indiana Jones, George Lucas, is a household name in Hollywood. On May 14th, 2026 Lucas turned 83-years-old. Lucas' name is synonymous in cinema for blockbusters, as he is one of the most financially successful filmmakers in history.

George Walton Lucas Jr. was born in 1944 in Modesto, California. Growing up, Lucas was fascinated by Disney, comics, and science fiction. Before graduating high-school Lucas was set on being a racecar driver, but he was involved in a major accident a few days before his graduation resulting in him completely losing interest in racing. While attending Modesto Junior College, Lucas began shooting on an 8mm camera. Upon transferring to USC, Lucas started to really focus on cinema and filmmaking as a possible career, and bonded with fellow students Steven Spielberg and Martin Scorsese.

After graduating, Lucas went on to make American Graffiti, a successful coming-of-age movie. Lucas was hoping to make a film based on Flash Gordon, a beloved comic from his childhood, but he was unable to secure the rights. Because of this he started working on an original space adventure story. This script would eventually become Star Wars.

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Despite the success of his previous work, studios were not jumping at his space project and all but one passed on it. Twentieth-Century Fox eventually granted the film a budget and filming on the first Star Wars started in 1975. Star Wars went on to become the highest-grossing film of all time at the time, and Lucasfilm (Lucas' compnay) earned hundreds of millions of dollars from licensing deals.

Raiders of the Lost Ark was conceived in 1973, based on 20th-century serial films Lucas loved growing up. The film was halted while Lucas focused his efforts on Star Wars, but in 1977 upon the release of Star Wars it was reinvigorated when Spielberg joined the project. The film would go on to be a staple in pop culture, with many cinephiles and critics considering it one of the greatest movies of all time.

Lucas is one of the wealthiest people in Hollywood, with a net worth of an estimated $5 billion. A dedicated philanthropist, he has made a pledge to donate over half of his wealth to charity and other endeavors.

With box office records, several awards, and charities and companies to his name, Lucas is absolutely a force in the entertainment world. The mark he's left on cinema will be felt for a long time, and going to the movies wouldn't be what it is today without the legacy of his work.

Related: Before ‘Star Wars,’ This Acclaimed Actor Worked for a Legendary Rock Band

Walmart's Charming $53 5-Tier Planter Box Is a 'Sturdy,' Space-Saving Spot for Flowers and Herbs

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 3:15am

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If you’ve been dreaming of growing your own herbs or flowers but only have a small backyard or patio to work with, this Walmart flash deal is an easy way to bring a garden to even the most compact outdoor spaces.

The Costway 5-Tier Vertical Planter Box is currently on sale for $53, marked down from $119 at Walmart. Designed for gardening in small spaces, it features five staggered planting tiers and measures just 22.5 by 27 inches. It's available as a single unit or as a two-pack if you're looking to double your growing space. There's also a wheeled version for $75, which is handy when you want to move it around.  

Costway 5-Tier Vertical Planter Box, $53 (was $119) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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With this vertical planter, there’s no need to line up individual pots along a railing or crowd a small table with separate containers. Instead, a single unit stacks five growing beds into one space-saving tower.

Each tier measures 19.5 inches long, 7.5 inches wide, and 6 inches deep — offering plenty of room for herbs, flowers, or vegetables. It keeps everything organized, accessible, and neatly contained in one spot. Shoppers love its versatility, with one reviewer sharing: “I really like this plant stand as I can place it anywhere. I'm using it right now outside as an herb garden.”

Related: Walmart’s 'Beautiful' 6-Tier Plant Stand Creates a Vertical Garden for Small Spaces and Patios

Its staggered tier design allows every plant to receive plenty of sunlight instead of being shaded by the levels above. The planter comes with a built-in drainage system, with individual drainage holes and trays at each tier. This helps water flow evenly throughout the structure and keeps plants healthy. 

The planter beds are made from food-grade material that’s waterproof and easy to clean with a simple wipe-down. Since the individual beds are removable, you can easily rearrange them or repot plants as needed. Assembly is completely tool-free and can be completed in just a few minutes.

The tiered planter has received over 150 five-star reviews, with many highlighting it as a great solution for small spaces, balconies, and patio gardens. One reviewer shared, “I love the shape and style. It displays my flowers perfectly.” Others described it as “sturdy,” “well made,” and “easy to assemble.”

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For gardeners who’ve been holding off on starting an herb or flower garden due to limited room, the Costway 5-Tier Vertical Planter Box is an option worth a closer look. At just $53, it may not stay in stock for long.

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Quote of the Day by Lou Gehrig: 'I Love the Thrill of Victory, and I Also Love the Challenge of Defeat'

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 2:45am

Lou Gehrig is a name that you’ve probably heard, for one of two reasons. You either know him as a legendary professional baseball player who earned the nickname “the Iron Horse” for his amazing hitting and playing abilities. Or you might know his name because of the American label for ALS: Lou Gehrig’s disease, according to the ALS Association.

Gehrig was an iconic baseball legend, playing for the New York Yankees for 17 years, and was best known as their first baseman. He was so beloved by the team and fans that he was also the first Yankees athlete to have a jersey number retired (#4). And not only was he a skillful player, but he also had the best attitude while on the field. Our quote of the day from Gehrig shows just how good a sportsman he was and how we can all learn something from him, even if we don’t play sports. May is ALS Awareness Month, so it’s a particularly good time to shine a light on the Yankees player and his accomplishments.

Born on June 19, 1903, Gehrig grew up in New York City with his parents, who were both German immigrants, per Lou Gehrig’s website. His mother wanted him to receive a good education, so he went to college at Columbia University on a football scholarship, pursuing an engineering degree. He was convinced to play summer professional baseball before his first semester as a freshman, though, which banned him from intercollegiate sports. He eventually went back to playing football and baseball at Columbia, but was scouted in 1923 by the Yankees. He played one full season at Hartford (minor league baseball) before being called up to the major leagues full-time in 1925. 

Unfortunately, by 1938, Gehrig’s stats started dropping, and it wasn’t because he fell off; it was because his strength was decreasing. While it was originally diagnosed as a gallbladder issue, he continued to become weaker. He played eight games in the 1939 season, but withdrew because of his lack of performance (he only had four hits) and his degenerative condition. Gehrig was officially diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by doctors at the Mayo Clinic. He took the field for the last time on July 4, 1939, with 62,000 fans in attendance for his farewell, which has gone on to become his most famous speech. 

Gehrig’s words in our quote today seem to really highlight the kind of person he was, and that even with such success, he kept a good head on his shoulders. We can all learn a lot about winning and losing from Lou Gehrig, and not just in sports.

Related: Quote of the Day: Psychotherapist Viktor Frankl on Choosing Your ‘Attitude in Any Given Set of Circumstances’

Quote of the Day by Lou Gehrig 

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"I love to win; but I love to lose almost as much. I love the thrill of victory, and I also love the challenge of defeat."

As AL.com reported, this is known as one of Gehrig’s best quotes. According to the National Baseball Hall of Fame, Gehrig played 2,130 consecutive games for the Yankees, which is a record that would not be broken until Cal Ripken, Jr. did it in 1995; Gehrig played for that team from 1923 to 1939. He was “one of the most magnificent hitters and run producers in history,” the National Baseball Hall of Fame reported, though he was often overshadowed by Babe Ruth. And per the Associated Press, Gehrig had the record for most career grand slams (23) until Alex Rodriguez beat it in 2013. He was even the first athlete featured on a Wheaties box, according to the New Yorker.

He was a 7-time All-Star player, a 6-time World Series champion, an American League MVP and so many other accolades. So it’s safe to say that Lou Gehrig knew a thing or two (or a thousand) about winning. But he’s still only human, and where there are wins, there have to be losses.

Related: Quote of the Day: Psychologist Carl Rogers on Self-Acceptance, Change and Personal Growth

Deeper Meaning of Lou Gehrig’s Quote—Embracing Both Triumph and Defeat

Gehrig was quiet and reserved, but played his game well. As mentioned above, he was one of the best baseball players to ever play, and seemed to stay humble throughout it all.

If you’re constantly doing things—whether that’s competing in sports or working in your chosen career—and afraid of failing or losing, you’re going to severely limit yourself. Even if you’re not trying, that fear will subconsciously stop you from being more ambitious and trying new things you could potentially fail at. So being able to welcome defeat just as well as welcoming a win is a great mentality to continue thriving in life. 

Gehrig’s use of the terms “the thrill of victory” and “the challenge of defeat” really does a great job of depicting just how important and similar losing and winning are. You will always have that yin and yang, that push and pull, in life or in sports—you will never always win, nor will you always lose. So you have to be just as open to both, and as Gehrig did, even love doing both. 

Related: Quote of the Day: Psychoanalyst Erik Erikson on Building Community and Connection With Others

More Quotes from Lou Gehrig
  • “I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the Earth… I might have been given a bad break, but I’ve got an awful lot to live for." 
  • "I'm not a headline guy. I know that as long as I was following [Babe] Ruth to the plate, I could have stood on my head and no one would have known the difference."
  • "It's a pretty big shadow [Babe Ruth's]—it gives me lots of room to spread myself." 
  • "The ballplayer who loses his head, who can't keep his cool, is worse than no ballplayer at all."
  • "There is no room in baseball for discrimination. It is our national pastime and a game for all."
  • "When you have a father and a mother who work all their lives so you can have an education and build your body—it's a blessing."

Up Next:

Related: Quote of the Day: Poet Sylvia Plath on Living ‘Richly in the Present’ Without ‘Letting It Be Tainted and Spoiled Out of Fear for the Future’

JCPenney's $5 Hoop Earrings Are 'So Comfortable,' 'Pretty,' and 'Go Well With Everything'

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 2:30am

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Whether you identify as an accessory person or not, everyone needs staple jewelry in their closet that can be their go-to for any occasion. Styles like stud earrings, hoop earrings, and pendant necklaces are perfect for everyday wear, and, luckily, JCPenney is selling them at unbeatable prices. Our latest favorite are these Liz Claiborne Hoop Earrings, which are just over 58% off right now.

The accessory, which was originally priced at $12, has been reduced to just $5 during an extended Mother's Day deal through May 17. All you have to do is use the promotional code GIFT4MOM at checkout to receive the lowest sale price. If you don't see this deal until the Mother's Day sale is over, then you can still shop them on sale for just $7. The earrings are available in gold or silver, with some shoppers adding both hues to their cart.

Liz Claiborne Hoop Earrings, $5 (was $12) at JCPenney

Courtesy of JCPenny

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The earring design features a standard hinged back that you just have to clip in to keep them securely fastened. The classic hoop style is described to be a medium size, measuring at 20.8 millimeters long and 2.8 millimeters wide. The accessory is made of zinc and is considered hypoallergenic. To care for them, all you have to do is wipe them clean. We would recommend avoiding sleeping and showering with them to ensure they maintain their shine. 

What we love about this design is that the earrings are so chic and simple, so you can elevate any outfit with them. Pair them with your favorite sundress throughout the summer months, or sport them to holiday events throughout the winter — the options are endless! Shoppers agree that you can sport them everyday, adding that they're the "perfect size" and "go well with everything."

Related: JCPenney’s 'Elegant' $72 16-Piece Scalloped Dinnerware Set Is a Vintage-Inspired Upgrade for Your Table

Other customers described the "beautiful" earrings as "very pretty," "cute," "super comfortable," and "easy to put on." Reviewers also love that they're "lightweight," so they never feel overly bulky or get in the way during long wears. Some shoppers even purchased a pair as a gift, so they're a great affordable option for loved ones.

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Mark our words: these sleek hoop earrings will become your staple accessory. Shop for them now while they're just $5 at JCPenney! 

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Numbrix 9 - May 14

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 2:00am

Clarks’ ‘Cute’ $33 Sandals at Zappos Are the Slip-Ons You’ll Live in All Summer

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 1:45am

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If you haven’t checked the forecast yet, consider this your sign — sandal season is officially back. And if last year’s pair is looking a little too tired, stretched out, or hanging on by pure determination, it might be time to upgrade. The good news is you’ve got options — classic flip-flops, sporty clogs, cork wedges, braided styles, and everything in between are all stepping into rotation. Even better, plenty of them are on sale right now, including a standout deal at Zappos.

The Clarks Cloudsteppers Breeze Cove Flip-Flop is currently $33 at Zappos, marked down 45% from the pair's original $60 price tag. They’re doing the most important job of summer footwear: Making it easy to get out the door. With a slip-on design and that signature Clarks comfort, they strike a balance between casual and put-together, whether you’re running errands, heading to meet friends, or going to the beach.

Clarks Cloudsteppers Breeze Cove Flip-Flop, From $33 (was $60) at Zappos

Courtesy of Zappos

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These flip-flops are built with a sporty, comfort-first construction, balanced by small design details that give them a more refined feel. The upper features a wide synthetic thong strap with clean topstitching for added durability and structure, paired with an oversized hexagonal buckle at the forefoot for a more elevated finish than a standard flip-flop. Beneath the buckle, an adjustable closure allows for a more personalized fit across the instep. The sandal has a lightweight, 1.13-inch raised platform midsole that adds subtle height while maintaining stability and ease of wear.

Inside, the footbed features a high-rebound foam designed to absorb impact and provide long-lasting underfoot comfort. It’s contoured to support the natural shape of the foot, helping reduce pressure during extended wear. A smooth polyurethane lining enhances comfort, while the thermoplastic rubber outsole features a lightly textured tread pattern for added grip and traction across various surfaces.

Related: Amazon's $30 Dr. Scholl’s Platform Sandals Feel Like 'Walking on Clouds' and They 'Go With Everything'

Called “cute” and “casual” by shoppers, this design comes in six colors, offering options ranging from neutral tones to more seasonal, playful shades, and is available in whole sizes 5 through 12. The standard medium width can accommodate most foot shapes, and the adjustable closure also helps fine-tune the fit, making it easier to dial in comfort across different insteps.

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The under-$35 price tag truly can’t be beat — grab the Clarks Cloudsteppers Breeze Cove Flip-Flop at Zappos while the 45%-off deal is still on!

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Walmart's 'Stylish' $20 Outdoor Area Rug With 'Tropical' Vibes Will Make Your Patio Feel Like a Resort

Thu, 05/14/2026 - 1:00am

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When you want to refresh your space from the ground up, starting with a new rug can help you build the space around a central component. If that space is your patio, porch, or deck, a rug that holds up in the elements and is easy to clean is a must. But quality outdoor area rugs can be a big investment, and there aren't always a ton of aesthetically pleasing options at affordable price points. Thankfully, Walmart has a $20 outdoor area rug that checks all these boxes and then some.

With its large palm leaf motif and vibrant colors, the Vunate Reversible Outdoor Rug will bring resort-like vibes to your outdoor space. Starting at just $20 for the 8-by-5-foot size in navy blue and beige, the colors are inverted on the reverse side. Available in multiple sizes and colors at various price points, you can choose the perfect fit for your space. Select sizes also come with built-in LED lights.

Vunate Reversible Outdoor Rug, From $20 (was $46) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Designed for high-traffic areas and heavy use, this outdoor rug features reinforced sewn edges that won't fray. Made of woven recycled plastic, it's waterproof and lightweight yet surprisingly sturdy. The material resists fading, moisture, and stains, so it's ideal for patios, poolside areas, gardens, or even indoor spaces like mud rooms and entryways. 

Easy to fold and portable, it's also perfect for taking to a campsite or the beach. Those who used this rug for camping said they appreciated the handy loops at each corner, which make it easy to stake to the ground in front of an RV or tent. 

Speaking to its versatility, one shopper even described using this rug to cover a concrete slab outdoors to make the surface cooler for their dog. When it gets dirty, simply rinse the surface off with a water hose. 

Related: Walmart's Oversized $109 Cushioned Rocking Chair Is 'Wonderful' for Outdoor Lounging

Unlike similar woven mat-style outdoor rugs, shoppers said this one is "durable without feeling stiff." Reviewers also appreciated how the "tropical" look adds a resort-like vibe to their outdoor spaces.  "The leaf pattern is very stylish," one shopper said, noting that because it's so easy to clean, this rug is "pretty without being fussy."

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Whether you want to turn your patio into a relaxing retreat or invest in a versatile outdoor mat that's as functional as it is stylish, the Vunate Reversible Outdoor Rug is an excellent choice. Snag it now for as little as $20 at Walmart before this flash deal ends.

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