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Few songs in history carry a legacy as massive as Nirvana‘s “Smells Like Teen Spirit.”

Released 35 years ago today as the opening track for Nirvana’s legendary Nevermind album, the song crowned Kurt Cobain as the voice of Generation X. What began as an attempt to write the ultimate pop song ended up shattering cultural boundaries and cementing Nirvana’s place in music history.

When Nirvana released their debut album, Bleach, in 1989, few expected the Seattle trio to become rock’s next big phenomenon. Recorded on a shoestring budget of just $600, the record went on to sell 30,000 copies. It was a massive win for an underground indie act that set the stage for their major-label breakthrough, according to History.

“Smells Like Teen Spirit,” the album’s kickoff single, wasn’t expected to become a massive hit. In fact, all the record company hoped for was continued success among indie radio listeners and college students.

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“None of us heard it as a crossover song,” Nirvana’s manager, Danny Goldberg, said, as reported by History. “But the public heard it, and it was instantaneous. They heard it on alternative radio, and then they rushed out like lemmings to buy it.”

Interestingly, Cobain almost held the track back. After refining the song during rehearsals with Krist Novoselic and Dave Grohl, the frontman feared it sounded too much like alt-rock band Pixies and was reluctant to release it.

Per U Discover Music, the song’s name originated after Cobain’s friend, Kathleen Hanna, wrote the sentence ‘Kurt smells like Teen Spirit’ on his wall. It referred to a popular deodorant of the era.

“I mean, who names a deodorant Teen Spirit?” Hanna asked. “What does teen spirit smell like? Like a locker room? Like pot mixed with sweat? Like the smell when you throw up in your hair at a party?”

Ironically, Cobain had never heard of the product. It was widely reported that he believed it was more of a rebellious statement.

Novoselic said of the lyrics, as reported by U Discover Music, “I just didn’t get them the first time I read them. And then I started listening to it in the song format, and then I had an idea of what he was talking about.”

He continued, “[Kurt] was talking about kids, commercials, Generation X, the youth bandwagon. How he’s really disappointed in it, and how he doesn’t want anything to do with it.”

“Smells Like Teen Spirit” was recorded in just three takes. The second was ultimately remastered and released 35 years ago today, instantly changing the sound of mainstream radio and ushering in the grunge era overnight.

Nirvana has been named the 2026 Video Vanguard recipient at the MTV VMA’s. According to Billboard, the award will be presented on Sept. 27 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.

Related: Evan Dando Claims Kurt Cobain Died Not Knowing the ‘Truth’ About His Relationship With Courtney Love

Whitney and Conner Leavitt, one of the most front-and-center couples on The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, welcomed their third—and last—child while the show was filming its second season. “We are most excited about having our family complete,” the couple shared after the baby’s birth in October 2024. “We’ve always wanted three kids and we’re so happy everyone’s here now.”

Keep reading for a guide to Whitney and Conner’s family of five, including a look back at the TikTok scandal involving their middle son. 

Related: ‘DWTS’ Fans Catch Whitney Leavitt’s Reaction as Halloween Night Elimination Is Announced

How many children does Whitney from MomTok have?

Whitney and Conner share three kids: Sedona, 6, Liam, who will be 5 in December, and Billy Gene, who turns 2 in October. 

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How old was Whitney Leavitt when she had her first baby?

Whitney was born on May 13, 1993, and she welcomed her first child, Sedona, in November 2019, which means she was 26 when she became a mom for the first time.

What was the controversy with Whitney Leavitt’s son?

In December 2021, Whitney sparked backlash after posting a TikTok video of herself dancing beside her then newborn, Liam, when he was hospitalized with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and low oxygen levels. She later deleted the post and shared a tearful response to the pile-on, saying she was merely trying to stay “positive” during a scary time. 

“I understand that people are upset with the video that I made. I just want to be clear and communicate that that was just me trying to be positive,” she said. “I think it’s important to not just assume what someone’s going through. I took it down because I can see how someone might get the wrong idea.”

She revisited the controversy in the first season of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, saying how much it affected her mental health and reputation. But fellow MomToker (and highly skilled troublemaker) Demi claimed that Whitney once admitted during a ketamine therapy session that she filmed the video “for sympathy, likes [and] clout”—a bold accusation that Whitney denied.

Who are Whitney and Conner Leavitt’s kids?

The Leavitts, who exchanged vows in July 2016, share three little ones.

Sedona

Whitney and Conner welcomed their eldest child, Sedona, in November 2019. According to a birthday tribute Whitney posted for the girl’s 6th birthday in 2025, she and Conner didn’t know what to name their daughter until just a couple of weeks before her birth, when they heard the song “Sedona” by Houndmouth. 

View this post on Instagram

“Now, listening to this song, it reminds me of her bright and wild spirit,” Whitney wrote. “Someone who is full of life, light and a little bit of sass 🤭 Sedona, my doe and my princess, I love you more than words can say.”

Dancing With the Stars’ fans fell in love with Sedona during Disney Week, when she showed up to support her mom, a Season 34 competitor. Whitney shared a TikTok video of the girl arriving at her trailer (dressed a little like a princess) with overlaid text that read: “Sharing my dreams with my baby girl.”

@whitneyleavitt

A night I will never forget. I love you so much Sedona ❤️

♬ Hometown Glory – Adele

Related: Will ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Return for Season 35?

Liam 

Liam arrived earthside in December 2021 and was almost immediately hospitalized due to RSV and low oxygen levels. Whitney drew instant backlash when she posted a TikTok video of herself dancing beside his hospital bed, igniting a larger conversation about influencer culture and the lengths content creators will go to for engagement. 

Billy Gene

Whitney infamously revealed to her family that she was pregnant with the youngest Leavitt baby by hiding a positive pregnancy test—that she did, indeed, pee on—in a cake that they were meant to eat. 

“Look, I put the lid back on it. I Cloroxed the heck out of it before putting it in the cake,” Whitney told The Cut. “It was clean. I get how people were like, Ew. Maybe people tried to stay away and not eat the pieces surrounding the test, but that cake was good. So yeah, we did eat the cake.”

View this post on Instagram

Whitney and Conner welcomed Billy Gene on Oct. 24, 2024. “You’ve changed our world forever,” Whitney wrote on Instagram to mark his first birthday. “You’re so endlessly loved.”

What’s next for Whitney and Connor Leavitt?

Whitney and Conner have continued building careers outside the show. Whitney announced in May 2026 that Season 5 would be her final season of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. She has since completed filming Season 5, making the upcoming season her final appearance on the show. 

The couple launched Leavitt Media House, and Conner recently completed an off-Broadway run in 11 to Midnight. He is also now competing on Dancing With the Stars Season 35, while Whitney is returning to Broadway in Just in Time this winter.

Related: Get To Know Whitney Leavitt’s Husband, Conner—and Their Response to Those ‘Lavender Marriage’ Rumors

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As we transition to fall, it’s almost time to give your shoe collection a seasonal refresh and sadly put all those sandals into storage. While they offer comfort and easy wear, they don’t exactly do the best job at keeping your feet snug and warm in cooler temperatures. Fortunately, shoes like mules, clogs, and backless loafers are just as easy to slip into and provide just the right amount of coverage for unpredictable fall weather.  

If you’re looking to add a pair to your fall shoe collection, these Ecetana Suede Clogs at Walmart are a fabulous choice. While they look and feel quite similar to more expensive styles, you can currently score them on sale at a budget-friendly price. These clogs normally retail for $46, but they’re now 50% off, marked down to just $23 for a limited time with a Walmart flash deal.

Ecetana Suede Clogs, $23 (were $46) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

You can snag these clogs in three colors, including black, gray, and taupe. They’re available in sizes ranging from 5.5 to 11, and customers mentioned that they fit true to size. However, they’re designed to have a snug fit, so if you’re in between sizes, you may want to size up. 

Delivering all-day comfort, these clogs have cork footbeds that support your arches and heels. They’re designed to mold to the shape of your feet over time, making them a great choice for flat feet or high arches. Attesting to their support, shoppers noted that these clogs helped with plantar fasciitis pain. The footbeds also keep your weight evenly distributed to help prevent fatigue. 

These clogs are lightweight, making every step feel as effortless as the last. They absorb the impact of your steps, reducing the pressure on your feet and joints. Made of rubber, the soles have a non-slip design, offering traction and stability on all kinds of surfaces. The soles are wear-resistant, so they should remain in pristine condition for a long time. Whether you’re heading to the grocery store, strolling through the park, or sightseeing on vacation, these shoes are ready to handle all your outings. 

Ecetana Suede Clogs, $23 (were $46) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Offering ample coverage while still allowing your feet to breathe, these clogs are ideal for fall weather. They’ll protect your feet from chilly breezes on crisp days and promote airflow to prevent your feet from overheating when the temperatures fluctuate. 

Featuring a sleek silhouette with rounded toes and soft uppers, these clogs have a casual feel. However, they’re elevated by the genuine suede material, giving them an elegant look and a touch of quiet luxury. They have a backless design, making them effortless to slip into and take off. The uppers are fitted with an adjustable strap and buckle hardware. While they add a stylish accent, they’re functional and work to keep your feet securely in place. 

You can style these clogs with a plethora of outfits, ranging from athleisure to refined streetwear. Whether you wear them with a hoodie and leggings, or a blouse and jeans, they’ll add a relaxed and laid-back vibe to your look. Depending on the weather and your preference, you can wear them with or without socks — they look chic either way. 

@catsparklelife

here are some summer outfit ideas with the birkenstock clogs! 🤗🤗 #birkenstocks #pinterestoutfit #styleinspo #outfitinspo #summeroutfitinspo #fashiontiktok

♬ sonido original – B.sound

It’s no surprise that these Walmart clogs have racked up over 600 five-star reviews. One shopper raved that they’re “super cute” and said that they “look exactly like the name brand clogs at a really affordable price.” A second customer commented that they’re the “perfect shoes for fall” and mentioned that they’re “comfortable and easy to slip on.” 

Shop More Deals 

• Ecetana Pointed-Toe Mules, From $17 (were $26) at Walmart
• Ecetana Low-Top Sneakers, From $20 (were $31) at Walmart
• Litfun Faux Fur-Lined Suede Clogs, From $34 (were $70) at Walmart

Related: These Lace-Up Flats Nail the Balletcore Aesthetic, Offering Sneaker-Like Comfort Without Sacrificing Style

From warm fall days to crisp nights, the Ecetana Suede Clogs are ready for any weather fall throws at you. Head to Walmart and snag them while they’re still on sale for just $23, which is just a fraction of the price of name-brand styles! 

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.

There are plenty of reasons to be happy in Hawaii. Think of the beaches, the sunsets, the magical landscapes. They aren’t exactly a bad place to start.

But it seems that there is more to happiness than sunshine, ocean breezes and beautiful scenery. According to a new study from WalletHub, Hawaii has been named the happiest state in America for 2026. And while that may not come as a huge surprise, the state that landed right behind it just might: New Jersey.

WalletHub compared all 50 states across 30 measures of happiness, including depression rates, health, income growth, unemployment, productivity and other factors that can shape how satisfied people feel with their lives.

The findings are interesting at a time when happiness seems to be in short supply. A recent Gallup poll found that just 44% of Americans are “very satisfied” with the way their lives are going.

Related: America’s Favorite Small Towns 2026: Meet the Regional Winners

What Is the Happiest State in America?

So what makes a state happy? According to WalletHub, Hawaii has the highest level of life satisfaction in the country and the second-lowest depression rate.

About 84% of Hawaiian adults report being in good or better health, and the state has the highest life expectancy in America. Hawaii also has one of the country’s lowest unemployment rates and ranks third for the share of households earning more than $75,000 a year.

Why Is Hawaii the Happiest State in America?

“Hawaii is the happiest state, with residents reporting the highest levels of life satisfaction in the nation and the second-lowest depression rate,” says WalletHub analyst, Chip Lupo. So living in paradise may help. But the numbers suggest that health, financial stability and overall quality of life are important parts of the equation, too.

Related: Feeling a Little Bit Down? Here Are 25 Ways To Get Happier in 10 Minutes or Less

What Is the Second-Happiest State in America?

So what was ranked number 2? This is where the list gets really interesting.

New Jersey is the second-happiest state in America.

Why Did New Jersey Rank So Highly?

According to WalletHub, the Garden State has the lowest share of adults experiencing depression in the country. The rate is 2.4 times lower than West Virginia’s, which has the highest. New Jersey also has the fewest suicides per 100,000 residents. This rate is 4.4 times lower than Alaska’s, which has the highest.

The ranking is a good reminder that the things that contribute to happiness aren’t always the things we photograph on vacation. Mental health, economic stability, health and a sense of security matter, too.

Utah is number three, with two particularly interesting statistics. The state has the highest volunteer rate in the country, 2.5 times higher than Rhode Island’s, which has the lowest. Utah also has the lowest separation and divorce rate, 1.7 times lower than New Mexico’s, which has the highest.

So it seems that happiness has a lot to do with connection. “A happy life is built on meaningful relationships, a sense of purpose, personal growth, good health, and enough autonomy to make choices that reflect your values,” says Abbie Lambert, Ph.D., an associate professor at the University of Central Oklahoma.

What Are the 10 Happiest States in America?

Hawaii
New Jersey
Utah
Idaho
Maryland
Nebraska
Connecticut
Minnesota
California
New Hampshire

WalletHub’s experts point to many of the things we already know matter. But we may not always make time for them.

What Makes People Happier Where They Live?

Marybeth Gasman, a distinguished professor at Rutgers University–New Brunswick, says happiness comes from meaningful relationships, purpose-driven work, good health and having some control over how we spend our time. She also makes an important distinction: Happiness doesn’t mean feeling joyful every minute of every day. It’s about working toward a life that feels fulfilling. It’s about a life that can sustain you when things inevitably get difficult.

“I don’t believe happiness means feeling joy every day,” she says. “However, it means that you are working toward a life that is fulfilling and will buoy you even when life throws you punches.”

Community matters, too. Debra Kelly, an assistant professor at Carthage College, points to libraries, parks, recreation centers and community spaces as places where people can form the connections that support well-being. Sometimes, she suggests, the things that bring us happiness aren’t complicated at all: spending time with other people, getting outside, volunteering and helping others. “By providing safe spaces where children and families can gather, neighbors get to know one another and build systems of support to lean on during times of distress,” adds Kelly.

Of course, a ranking can’t tell you where you’ll personally be happiest. One person’s paradise may be another person’s nightmare. But WalletHub’s findings offer an intriguing look at what happy places have in common.

The happiest state may simply be the place where enough of the things that make life meaningful come together. They offer good health, supportive relationships, purpose, financial security, community and a little time to enjoy it all.

Next: The #1 Unexpected Trick to Feeling Happy—Even When the Odds Are Stacked Against You

Streaming services have unlocked the ability to watch so many vintage shows that would otherwise be lost to the ether. And the educational children’s show PB&J Otter is one of them.

It only ran for two years in the late ’90s, but it’s still worth checking out today. The low-stimulation show can help children observe important life skills, licensed psychologist Dr. Connie McReynolds tells Parade. Dr. McReynolds, also a certified rehabilitation counselor at Morningstar Educational and Psychological Services, specifically says that PB&J Otter can help with critical thinking skills in young kids.

“One of the strongest messages from this show is that getting stuck is a normal part of learning and that it is part of life,” she explains, adding, “Children can see that it is totally fine to pause, stop, reset and approach a problem differently, and that mistakes are part of developing good problem-solving skills and [don’t] mean they have done anything wrong.”

She thinks the lessons this show provides are especially important for children heading back to school this fall, as they’ll encounter all kinds of opportunities to employ critical thinking skills. If you’re looking for a TV show to help your little ones learn how to brainstorm and problem-solve that’s entertaining but not too overstimulating, keep reading to see all the reasons you should give this one a try.

Related: This 28-Year-Old Children’s Show Is Still One of the Best Ways To Teach Your Kids Life Skills, Psychologists Say

The ’90s Disney Classic Hiding in Plain Sight: What Was ‘PB&J Otter’?

Created by Jim Jinkins, the same cartoonist who made the ’90s Nickelodeon hit Doug, PB&J Otter premiered in 1998 and ran until 2000 on Playhouse Disney. It follows three otter siblings named Peanut, Butter and Jelly who live in a houseboat on Lake Hoohaw.

In the series, the siblings spend time with their animal friends and neighbors and frequently work together to solve everyday problems like dealing with hurt feelings, cleaning up messes and more.

Related: Child Psychologist Reveals: ‘This Is the Best Children’s Show To Work on Empathy in Kids and Grandkids’

The Psychology of the ‘Noodle Dance’: How Moving Helps Kids Think

The PB&J Otter “Noodle Dance” is a plot device used in every episode of the show as a way for the young characters to think their way through a problem. They pair their brainstorming sessions with freeform dance movements and a catchy jingle to help them more easily come up with solutions. Dr. McReynolds says there’s a reason movement and thinking are so linked for children.

@disneyjr

No thoughts. Just Noodle Dance 💃 🎥 PB&J Otter

♬ original sound – Disney Jr.

“This kind of ritual can help children shift out of feeling mentally stuck, as movement can create space for more flexible and creative thinking,” she says, adding that it serves as a healthy reminder that it’s alright to take a break when working through something.

“Movement can interrupt mental overload and help reset attention,” she continues. “Taking time out is part of problem solving, not giving up.”

Ultimately, Dr. McReynolds says that “physical activity can support attention, working memory and mental flexibility,” and the routine use of a catchy song like the “Noodle Dance” helps make “a reset playful rather than making frustration feel like failure,” she says, adding that it’s “a simple strategy [kids] can remember and use.”

Related: The One Feeling a Child Psychologist Wishes Parents Would Stop Trying To ‘Fix’

A 4-Step Masterclass in Toddler Problem-Solving

The plot lines in every episode are different, but PB&J Otter thrives in routine. Every episode, the otter siblings have to confront a problem, and they have a familiar four-step framework to solve it.

1. Identify the roadblock

For instance, in the first episode, the otters deal with feeling left out when their friends are planning something secret without them.

2. Step away to clear their mind

This is where they do the “Noodle Dance” to help them reset.

3. Brainstorm solutions

The siblings then offer different ideas to fix the problem. Not every idea is a winner, but that’s part of the process.

In the first episode, Jelly suggests building a giant telescope to peek into their friend’s house to see what they’re all doing. Instead, Peanut suggests just going and knocking on the door.

“Brainstorming several ideas teaches that imperfect ideas are part of the process, and then choosing and testing a solution builds flexible, practical problem solving,” Dr. McReynolds adds. “It’s a number of skills but done in a fun way.”

4. Execute on the best solution

The otters went up to the door, knocked and learned that the reason for the secrecy was that their friends were planning a surprise party for them. For children watching, seeing the otters communicate their frustration (we feel left out) in a clear, emotionally mature way can be really helpful modeling.

“Having a framework helps teach children to identify the actual problem before reacting, and this pause helps reduce impulsive responding,” Dr. McReynolds explains.

She says that parents can replicate this process in their own home by working with their children to identify the problem they’re trying to solve and taking a movement break to reset before exploring answers.

“I would also suggest that parents encourage their children to look at several possible solutions rather than supplying the answer,” she shares. “Seeing this modeled on a [TV show] means they will see mistakes as normal and know that persistence and trying again are just what we do.”

She continues: “Giving children that time, space and support to explore is a wonderful gift that costs nothing but time.”

Related: From Lemonade Stands to Scavenger Hunts, Here Are 150 Activities for Kids To Keep Them Entertained

Thanasis Zovoilis/Getty Images

Why ‘PB&J Otter’ Is the Perfect ‘Low-Stimulation’ Alternative to Modern Cartoons

Unlike some modern, flashy kids’ shows of today, PB&J Otter thrives with a lower-stimulation, slow-paced environment, as seen in many ’90s shows and cartoons for children.

“One of the benefits of this slower pace is that it gives children time to follow the story and understand what is happening,” says Dr. McReynolds. “Fewer competing sights and sounds can reduce demands on attention and allow them to follow and focus.”

The gentle, pastel-colored world of Lake Hoohaw acts as a comforting backdrop to the different issues the siblings face.

“The slower pacing and fewer competing stimuli may make it easier to follow and understand events,” she explains. “The emphasis stays on the characters, conversation and problem solving, and because of this, children have more opportunity to follow the sequence of cause and effect.”

Essentially, the low-stimulation nature of the cartoon gives children the space to actually process what they’re seeing so they can replicate it in their own lives.

Related: Child Psychologist Is Begging Parents To Teach Kids These 7 Daily Habits

How To Watch ‘PB&J Otter’ on Streaming Today

All three seasons of PB&J Otter are now available to stream on Disney+. There are 65 episodes total, with each one being about a half hour long, so there’s plenty of low-stimulation content for your little ones to check out.

Up Next:

Related: We Asked 3 Child Psychologists for the Best Question To Ask Kids at the Dinner Table, and They All Said the Same Thing

Source:

• Dr. Connie McReynolds, PhD, is a licensed psychologist and certified rehabilitation counselor at Morningstar Educational and Psychological Services.

Siobhan Fahey turns 69 today.

She left Bananarama in 1988, when the group was selling more records than it ever would again, and she has never pretended that was an accident. “I walked away from Bananarama when it was absolutely at its peak,” she said in an interview in 2017. She called it a habit of hers.

She co-founded the group in the early 1980s with Sara Dallin and Keren Woodward, and Guinness lists them as the all-female group with the most chart hits worldwide. Bananarama charted 44 times in Britain. Not one of those 44 reached the top.

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Three Times at No. 3

That was the British ceiling. “Robert De Niro’s Waiting” got to No. 3 in 1984. “Love in the First Degree” got to No. 3 in 1987. The Greatest Hits Collection got to No. 3 in 1988, which was the year Fahey left and Jacquie O’Sullivan took her place.

America was kinder. Four Bananarama singles reached the US Top 10 and “Venus” went all the way.

She Left Because the Music Got Too Cheerful

The band had moved to Stock Aitken Waterman by then and the hits were bigger than ever. Fahey had just married Dave Stewart of Eurythmics. She quit anyway.

The band, she said, had gone into “unashamed ultra-pop” while she was heading somewhere darker. She wanted to write things that would not have fit in Bananarama.

Then “Stay” Sat There for Two Months

She formed Shakespears Sister. “Stay” entered the UK chart in January 1992, reached No. 1 on Feb. 15 and stayed eight weeks, out of 22 on the chart altogether.

Eight weeks is a long time. Bananarama, across 44 British chart entries, never had one. That one did not last either. By 1993 she had fired her bandmate Marcella Detroit, and Shakespears Sister went on hiatus the year after.

The album that song came from, Hormonally Yours, reached No. 3 and hung around 55 weeks. Their other singles did respectable numbers, “You’re History” and “I Don’t Care” both at No. 7, “Sacred Heart” at No. 9. None of them is the one people remember.

Related: Legendary Member of Girl Group Bananarama Turns 66

The Charts Tell It Plainly Enough

Bananarama carried on without her, and the two remaining members have been performing as a duo ever since.

The three of them did play together again. In 2002 they did a twentieth anniversary show at a London club and called it their last ever.

Then in December 2016 Woodward phoned Fahey and asked her to come back. They toured Britain the following year, the first time the original three had ever toured at all. Fifteen dates sold out immediately. They added ten more.

Next: 1966 Motown No. 1, Reimagined by Phil Collins, Is Still a Powerful Hit 60 Years Later

Your birth date can reveal the relationship karma, patterns, and lessons you’re here to work through in this lifetime.

What is your relationship karma, and how can you break it? Numerologists claim that your relationship karma is based on your birth date. The cosmic and neurological energy of your birth date specifically highlights what needs to be addressed to have happy, spiritually fulfilling connections. Read on to discover what your relationship karma is and how to break it for birth dates 1 to 31.

RELATED: What Is A Karmic Relationship?

What is Relationship Karma?

Karma is neither good nor bad; it simply reflects how you experience the cause-and-effect of your actions and decisions throughout life. No one is exempt from karma, as it is an essential part of everyone’s spiritual journey. Among the various karmic lessons one can encounter, relationship karma is arguably the most significant. This type of karma carries over from past lives and influences how you connect with and interact with others in this lifetime. Your relationship karma can impact your love life, friendships, family dynamics, and more. The same lessons will continue to arise until you break these relationship cycles.

The Relationship Karma You’re Breaking, Based on Your Birth Date

Check if your date of birth is listed. Disregard birth months.

Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, and 28th: The Fear of Codependency

Being stuck in an overly codependent relationship is the worst nightmare for someone born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, and 28th. People born on these dates embody the independence of 1 and the ego of the sun, so they’re self-assured individuals who value their alone time. However, these birth dates struggle with maintaining their independence in their relationships. As a result, they might pull back out of fear of becoming codependent. The relationship karma they must break is learning that the right connection will amplify their freedom and individuality rather than take away their independence. 

Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, and 29th: Not Trusting Your Intuition

The most intuitive people are born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, and 29th. People with these birth dates, along with the sensitivity of 2 and the emotional depth of the moon. Their cosmic and numerological attributes make them highly attuned to and susceptible to the energy around them. Although they’re uniquely intuitive, they often doubt their inner knowledge when they enter a relationship. Even the healthiest connection can cause these birth dates to second guess their gut feelings and discernment. Breaking their relationship karma means working through their anxiety and insecurity to trust their intuition.

Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, and 30th: Not Looking Before You Leap

People born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, and 30th are easily swept up when they fall in love. These birth dates align with Jupiter’s positive spirit and 3’s zest for life, so they go wherever the wind takes them. Regardless of past experiences, they’re surprisingly optimistic about romance. It’s easy for them to fall in love and get caught up in the moment; however, this leads to prematurely jumping the gun. Individuals with these birth dates don’t look before they leap, which can land them in unnecessarily hot water. Going slowly and taking their time breaks their relationship karma.

Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, and 31st: Treating Love Like a Chore

It’s no secret that people who celebrate their birthdays on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, and 31st are hard workers. Both numerologists and astrologers agree that these birth dates embody the tenacity of 4 and the innovation of Uranus. Although their determination and perseverance is admirable, this can lead to treating love like a chore. They may see a romantic connection as another responsibility or obligation. If they want to break this relationship karma, then these birth dates need to remember that love should always be something they want to work on, not something they have to.

Born on the 5th, 14th, and 23rd: Intellectualizing Your Relationship

Love, dating, and romance can be mentally overwhelming for someone who’s born on the 5th, 14th, or 23rd. Individuals with these birth dates can thank 5 for their never-ending mental agility and curiosity. This mental flexibility is also amplified by Mercury, the astrological planet of thinking and communication. While these birth dates are highly intelligent and witty, they’re also prone to analysis paralysis. Ruminating on their connections is a karmic lesson for them. Luckily, they can break this relationship karma by making peace with waiting for things to unfold instead of trying to mentally control the outcome.

Born on the 6th, 15th, and 24th: Overcompensating in Nonreciprocal Connections

The most selfless partners share birthdays on the 6th, 15th, and 24th. People with these birth dates feel strongly about their partners, friends, and family thanks to being guided by relationship-oriented 6. They’re also aligned with Venus, the astrological planet of love and connection. Since relationships are a huge part of their lives, they undergo immense relationship karma. The biggest karmic lesson for them is that they cannot overcompensate in their relationships. People with these birth dates eventually understand how to rebalance their connections and stick to their boundaries by disengaging from nonreciprocal partnerships.

MORE: The 3 Birth Months Entering Their Luckiest Era This Autumn

Born on the 7th, 16th, and 25th: Illusion, Confusion, & Delusion

Love is tricky for those born on the 7th, 16th, and 25th. Numerology says these birth dates are highly introspective and wise thanks to being influenced by 7. They know exactly what karma, connection, and love require. However, astrology says Neptune’s murky energy distorts their typically profound perception. As a result, these birth dates have to overcome illusions to break their relationship karma. This might look like taking off the rose-colored glasses, addressing limerence, or even being more present while dating. Regardless, these birth dates know healthy love will flourish when they can address the reality of their love life.

Born on the 8th, 17th, and 26th: Power Struggles & Imbalances

Who wears the pants? No matter the relationship, this question plagues those born on the 8th, 17th, and 26th. According to numerology, 8 bestows abundance and ambition on these birth dates. They’re known for being highly successful as they build a beautiful, lavish life. However, these birth dates are destined to go through immense tests because they’re ruled by Saturn, the planet of karma itself. They experience power struggles and control issues by making themselves small to stay with their partners. Breaking their relationship karma means finding a partner who’s comfortable with their level of success and innate authority.

Born on the 9th, 18th, and 27th: Being Conflict Avoidant

Addressing the elephant in the room is a touch-and-go experience with those born on the 9th, 18th, and 27th. Numerology says these individuals are guided by 9, so they’re blessed with a higher perception. Being overly understanding interferes with their Martian qualities, since they may struggle with aggravation and frustration. They’d rather avoid an argument, but this leads to letting too much slide and being taken advantage of. People born on these dates must learn to be comfortable with confrontation. It might be initially difficult, but they’ll handle conflict and problems like a pro in no time.

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In 2001, as Americans got ready for a day of work and school on Tuesday, September 11, millions had their TVs tuned to one of the network morning shows on NBC, CBS, or ABC. News junkies with cable TV were likely tuned into 24-hour news pioneer CNN, or one of the newer cable networks, FOX News and MSNBC, which were both five years old at the time.

No matter which morning show people were watching, no one could have imagined that they were about to witness the deadliest terrorist attack in American history unfold on their TV screens. But moments after American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the World Trade Center’s south tower at 8:45 a.m. ET, each network’s morning teams went live with images of smoke billowing out of the tower.

With producers scrambling in the background to get answers and footage, the morning news anchors who Americans trusted to keep them informed, from NBC’s Katie Couric to ABC’s Diane Sawyer, tried to make sense of what they were witnessing in real-time.

In honor of the 25th anniversary of 9/11, and the 2,977 victims who perished that day (not including the 19 hijackers involved), Parade takes a look back at how the reporting unfolded on multiple national morning broadcasts.

NBC’s Today Show Anchors Katie Couric & Matt Lauer Shocked by 9/11 Attacks

In 2001, NBC’s Today dominated the morning ratings, anchored by Katie Couric and Matt Lauer. The morning broadcast that Tuesday began as usual, with headlines from Ann Curry, weather reports by Al Roker, and numerous interviews — including Lauer speaking with a Howard Hughes biographer — until executive producer Jonathan Wald tersely told him in his earpiece: “Go to commercial. Breaking news: A plane has hit the World Trade Center.”

In the clip above, Couric and Lauer returned from the commercial break and she told viewers, “Apparently, a plane has just crashed into the World Trade Center here in New York City.” They immediately spoke with an eyewitness, Jennifer Oberstein, who said it was a “terrifying” scene after seeing a huge fireball and debris falling from the building (though she was unaware at that point it was caused by a plane).

One of the most chilling moments of the broadcast occurs around the 9:26 mark in the video, as Couric and Lauer were talking on the phone with Today producer Elliott Walker. She was reporting from near the site when she screamed, “Oh! Another one just hit! Something else just hit — a very large plane just flew directly over my building and there’s been another collision.”

As a giant fireball enveloped the second tower, voices in the studio could be heard gasping, “Oh my God!” Within a few moments, they went back to Oberstein, who sounded panicked as she told Lauer she’d “never seen anything like it,” describing how she watched a huge jet fly straight into the building.

Five years later, in 2006, Lauer recalled, “That was the realization, in an instant, that this is a major act of terrorism. And where there were two, there could be more, and by the way, we’re sitting in Rockefeller Center, a landmark and iconic attraction in New York City.”

ABC’s Good Morning America Hosts Charlie Gibson & Diane Sawyer React to Second Plane on 9/11

In 2001, ABC’s Good Morning America was hosted by Charlie Gibson and Diane Sawyer who also couldn’t fathom what they were seeing when the show aired live footage of smoke billowing out of the first tower.

Gibson called the Twin Towers the “beacons of New York” and recalled the 1993 terrorist bombing there, but noted, “We don’t know anything about what’s happened here, other than the fact that there’s obviously been a major incident there.”

They then broke in on all ABC stations across the nation, with Gibson telling viewers that there was “one report, unconfirmed, that a plane has hit the World Trade Center.” When the second plane hits, at about 12:35 in the video above, someone in the studio shouts, “Oh my God,” and Sawyer can be heard gasping, “Dear Lord.” Gibson, talking to a witness on the phone about seeing the plane and the second explosion, said, “So this looks like some sort of concerted effort to attack the World Trade Center.”

In 2006, Gibson told Today.com, “For the rest of my life, I will second-guess what happened then. Diane had the human reaction, and she said, ‘Oh my God.’ And I had the reporter’s reaction, which was, ‘Well, now we know what’s going on — we’re under attack.’ And I wish I had her reaction.;”

CBS’ The Early Show Lean On Anchor Bryant Gumbel to Handle Initial 9/11 Coverage

In 2001, CBS’ morning program was called The Early Show, hosted by Bryant Gumbel and Jane Clayson. After a pre-recorded segment about granting a “Week of Wishes” to deserving viewers, they shifted to a nationwide CBS Special Report at 8:52 a.m., with Gumbel announcing over footage of the towers that “a plane has crashed into the World Trade Center.”

While Gumbel spoke on the phone with an eyewitness, Theresa Renaud (wife of the show’s producer, Jack Renaud), she was speaking with him as she saw the second plane hit at the 22:45 mark in the above video. As a fireball appeared in the lower left corner of the screen and Clayson gasped in the background, Renaud exclaimed, “Oh, there’s another one, another plane just hit! Oh my god, another plane has just hit, it hit another building! It flew right into the middle of it!”

When Renaud noted that it “definitely looked like it was on purpose,” Gumbel asked, “You saw a plane?” and she insisted, “Yes, I saw a plane go into the building!”

Eric Shapiro, who was director of the CBS Evening News and special events, told Esquire he raced from a doctor’s appointment and took over the broadcast an hour later, around 10 a.m., with Dan Rather in the anchor chair, and ran their coverage until 2 a.m. the next morning.

CNN’s Carol Lin Was First to Break the News on the Morning of 9/11

On the morning of 9/11, CNN cut into a commercial at 8:48 a.m. with a “very disturbing live shot” of the World Trade Center, morning anchor Carol Lin told viewers. She is widely considered the first person on 9/11 to break the news on television.

Lin recently revealed on the On The Knows podcast that while she was anchoring the coverage, “there were still many things we were not telling you that I was hearing in my earpiece,” including that then-Mayor Rudy Giuliani was “sending 10,000 body bags to Ground Zero” and that “there might be a car bomb outside the State Department.”

Meanwhile, you can also watch how FOX News covered the attacks here. Footage of when MSNBC broke into its daily simulcast of radio icon Don Imus’ morning show to report live can be found here.

The day after the attacks, the New York Post called 9/11 the “most-widely broadcast news story in the history of television.” It also reported that in an unprecedented move, news division presidents at each network gathered for a conference call and agreed to share “whatever videotape any of them had shot during the day and provide the footage to any news organization that wanted to use it.”

There’s something undoubtedly special about King’s Hawaiian rolls. The subtle sweetness and pillowy-soft bread make just about any meal a little more exciting. And just in time for cozy autumn mornings, that signature sweetness is getting a cinnamon-swirled, bite-sized twist.

Even better, Costco is now carrying them in a big, warehouse-sized tub, making it easy to keep plenty on hand for breakfast, afternoon snacking, or whenever something sweet sounds good.

Take a look at the grocery-store size in this TikTok from BJ | Food & Lifestyle Finds (@brndij):

@brndij

EXCUSE ME?! Since when did @KING’S HAWAIIAN make CINNAMON SWIRL BITES?! 😭🤤🔥 I couldn’t leave these behind! #fyp #kingshawaiian #cinnamonbites #newfinds #groceryshopping

♬ original sound – Kosi King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Soft Swirl Bites Arrive at Costco in Warehouse Size

The King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Soft Swirl Bites combine the soft, subtly sweet bread the brand is known for with a cinnamon filling swirled through each little piece.

At Costco, they come in a generous 20.8-ounce tub for $8.89, although prices and availability can vary by warehouse. According to Warehouse Runner, the bites are Costco item #2072116, which can make them easier to track down at your local club.

And Costco’s larger size comes with a pretty significant value advantage. For comparison, Kroger currently sells King’s Hawaiian Soft Cinnamon Swirl Bites in a 10.2-ounce tub for $6.99. So for just $1.90 more at Costco, you’re getting more than double the amount. 

Related: Costco’s New Fall Dessert Is a S’mores Lover’s Dream Come True

And while you can certainly reach into the container and enjoy one as is, warming them up sounds like the way to go.

The package includes directions for heating the bites in the microwave, oven, or air fryer, so getting that soft bread and cinnamon swirl warm takes very little effort.

That idea has already caught the attention of people who have tried them. After one viewer told BJ, “These are AMAZING! Try them heated up,” she did exactly that, noting, “I did & omggggg.”

With about 10 servings per container and five bites per serving, there’s enough to set out for a weekend breakfast or brunch, share with the family, or keep nearby when the cinnamon craving hits.

They also seem especially well-timed for this part of the year. Cinnamon is one of those flavors that feels right at home as mornings get cooler, and these deliver it without requiring you to mix batter, roll dough, or wait for anything to rise.

Pair a few warm bites with a hot cup of coffee, add them to a brunch spread, or enjoy one (or three) straight from the tub. However you serve them, Costco’s newest King’s Hawaiian arrival makes soft, sweet cinnamon-bun flavor about as easy as it gets.

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If you’ve been looking for an easy way to bring more color into your home, Kelly Clarkson’s Home collection has a pretty pink option worth a look. Whether you want to brighten up a bedroom, add a playful touch to a kid’s room, or warm up a neutral living room, a pink area rug can make a space feel instantly more cheerful. 

The Kelly Clarkson Home Geometric Rose Pink Area Rug at Wayfair checks several boxes if you’re looking for a colorful rug that still won’t clash with your decor. Right now, the rug is on sale at Wayfair for $83, down from $198, for the 5-foot-3-inch by 8-foot rectangular size — that’s 58% off. Shoppers are loving the combination of style and comfort, with one reviewer calling the rug “good quality” and saying it complemented their decor perfectly.

Kelly Clarkson Home Geometric Rose Pink Area Rug, $83 (was $198) at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

Shop at Wayfair

This rose pink area rug pairs a diamond geometric pattern with a soft, cheerful pink that warms up a room and works with just about any decorating style. The 0.33-inch low pile feels surprisingly cushiony underfoot, which makes it an especially cozy pick for your home.  However, a rug pad is recommended for extra cushioning and to help keep it firmly in place.

The rug comes in a range of rectangular sizes, from a compact 2 feet by 3 feet to a spacious 10 feet by 14 feet, making it easy to find an option that suits your space. It also comes in octagon, square, round, oval and runner shapes. For shoppers who prefer a different shade, additional colorways such as navy, gray and yellow are also available under other labels.

The rug is power-loomed from polypropylene and designed to stand up to kids, pets and everyday wear and tear. It’s also stain-, shedding- and fade-resistant with proper care, making it a practical choice for frequently used areas of the home. 

Keeping the rug looking fresh is simple. Spot-treat stains with water and mild detergent, then vacuum regularly to keep dust and dirt at bay. 

The rug has earned positive reviews for its color and feel. One reviewer called it “super soft” and said they loved its “beautiful” color, adding that it helps hide imperfections. Another said the rug was “perfect” in their bedroom, while a third called it a “wonderful” and “easy-to-clean.” 

Shop More Deals

• Martha Stewart Murray Leaves Reversible Queen Quilt Set, $90 (was $150) at Wayfair
• Martha Stewart Bloomfield Lots of Lemons Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mat, $16 (was $21) at Wayfair
• Bayou Breeze Hence 31.5-Inch Wide Sideboard Set, $160 (was $500) at Wayfair

Related: Joanna Gaines’ ‘Super Soft’ Stain-Resistant Area Rug Has the Prettiest Vintage-Inspired Look

The Kelly Clarkson Home Geometric Rose Pink Area Rug is now just $83, making it an affordable way to add designer-inspired style to any room. If you’ve had your eye on it, this is a great time to snag it before the deal ends!

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.

If you’ve ever tried planning a cruise with your best friends or extended family, you already know the universal headache: stateroom Tetris. Cramming four adults into a single cabin with one tiny bathroom is an exercise in patience nobody actually wants on vacation—and paying full freight for a second stateroom can instantly blow the trip budget.

Enter one of the most unexpected travel hacks quietly taking off at sea: cruise casino status.

Rather than relying on standard cruise promos, Margaritaville at Sea is going all-in on casino incentives with an expanded Casino Players Club launching October 1. Buried beneath the standard casino jargon is an absolute unicorn of a travel perk: “Sail with Friends,” which hands top-tier players a completely free, second oceanview stateroom for two guests.

Yes, an entire extra cabin just so your friends or family can come along for the ride.

Even better? You don’t have to spend years grinding out slot points on Margaritaville’s ships to get your hands on high-tier perks.

Related: How to Pack for a 7-Day Cruise With a Single Carry-On

View this post on Instagram The “Casino Offer Match”

Most casual vacationers throw away the glossy mailers they receive from land-based casinos (think Vegas, Atlantic City, or your local regional resort) or other megaship cruise lines offering “complimentary nights” or discounted getaways.

Don’t throw them away.

Under Margaritaville at Sea’s Casino Offer Match program, you can take an existing casino offer or mailer you’ve received from another cruise line or land-based casino and submit it directly on their website. Instead of forcing you to start at zero, Margaritaville evaluates your proven play elsewhere and matches your established tier from day one.

In short: that weekend trip to Vegas or local gaming floor you visited six months ago could be your ticket to immediate VIP perks at sea.

Related: The One Thing You Should Never Do the Day Before Your Cruise

Why Casino Perks Beat Standard Cruise Loyalty

Ask any seasoned cruiser about loyalty programs, and they’ll tell you that traditional cruise loyalty (where you earn one point per night sailed) is notoriously slow. You often have to spend months at sea just to earn a free bag of laundry or priority boarding.

Casino loyalty plays by completely different rules. Because gaming drives serious revenue for cruise operators, the perks scale much faster—and they cross over into everyday vacation comfort far beyond the blackjack tables.

Under Margaritaville’s revamped Gold and Platinum tiers, high-value perks that usually run up a hefty tab on your final folio are bundled in for free:

• Complimentary Wi-Fi: Gold members get basic Wi-Fi, while Platinum members receive premium streaming-speed Wi-Fi (saving you roughly $15 to $25 per day).
• Complimentary Room Service & Laundry: Platinum players can order breakfast in bed without delivery upcharges and send out laundry for free—a dream for anyone trying to pack light in a carry-on.
• Up to $100 in Onboard Credits: Usable across the ship for spa treatments, shore excursions, or the arcade.
• A Dedicated VIP Host: Personal onboard attention to handle restaurant bookings and requests, skipping the guest services lines entirely.

“Whether someone has been playing with us for years or is considering Margaritaville at Sea for the first time, we want them to feel recognized and rewarded,” says David Gromak, Vice President and Head of Gaming at Margaritaville at Sea. “Our Casino Offer Match program gives established players an easy way to experience Margaritaville at Sea for the first time, while these new benefits give our most loyal players even more value throughout their vacation, both inside and outside the casino.”

The Bottom Line for Travelers

You don’t need to be a high-stakes whale to benefit from the shifting casino loyalty landscape. With cruise lines aggressively competing to pull travelers away from traditional land-based casino resorts, loyalty programs are offering far more value outside the casino pit than ever before.

Before you book your next weekend cruise or toss out your next casino mailer, check what that card in your wallet is actually worth—you might just find yourself gifting your best friends their own private oceanview cabin on the house.

Related: Margaritaville at Sea’s New Beachcomber Is Coming to Galveston With Caribbean Cruises and a Zac Brown Venue

Mason Ramsey was just 11 years old when he stopped Walmart shoppers in their tracks with a cover of Hank Williams‘ “Lovesick Blues.”

Video of the moment — which quite literally went down in the aisle of his local Walmart — spread like wildfire, turning that yodeling little boy from Illinois into a viral moment. The original video has been seen 92 million times.

But he’s no flash-in-the-pan child star. Ramsey has been quietly laying the bricks for a long-term country music career since 2018. In fact, he just released his second full-length album in August.

That project is Outlaw in Love (Aug. 14), which follows two early EPs and 2024’s I’ll See You in My Dreams LP.

The lead single for the new album, “Hey There Trouble,” was released in July. And then there’s track No. 9, “Heart in Oklahoma,” a lost-love song that likens gambling with your heart to gambling all of your money at the blackjack table. This especially heartbreaking acoustic version is premiering exclusively on Parade.

“Filming the performance video for ‘Heart in Oklahoma’ in Oklahoma was honestly pretty special,” Ramsey tells Parade. “There’s just something different about getting to film a song like this surrounded by the people and places that make Oklahoma feel like home.”

“It was a really fun day, and I’m so glad we got to capture it there,” he says. “I think you can really feel how much the song and Oklahoma mean to me.”

It’s been a lot of years since his Walmart days, and he’s not that same kid with a comb-over and a bowtie anymore. He’s shaggier, looser, and more comfortable in his skin as an artist. His voice is a lot deeper, too.

Ramsey is putting in the work to prove himself in his chosen genre, country music, with multiple visits to perform at the renowned Grand Ole Opry under his belt.

Next up for Ramsey: Live concerts in Denver (Sept. 11) and Salt Lake City (Sept. 12) this week.

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Joe Perry is celebrating his birthday today, and at 76, the Aerosmith co-founder has spent the past year proving he’s far from finished.

The band famously stepped back from touring in 2024 after Steven Tyler suffered a vocal cord injury just days into their farewell run. But Perry and company weren’t ready to close the book completely. Last November, Aerosmith released One More Time, a five-song collaborative EP with Yungblud, the group’s first new music since 2012’s Music From Another Dimension! Perry has since told Billboard there’s still “life left” in the band, hinting at the possibility of one more show tied to an upcoming documentary.

Long before any of that, Perry was a Massachusetts teenager sent to a Vermont boarding school to get his grades in order. Instead, he discovered Jimi Hendrix and The Yardbirds, started skipping class to play guitar, and eventually left school behind entirely. He later revealed the distraction wasn’t just a form of teenage rebellion; he had undiagnosed ADHD that made traditional schoolwork a struggle.

Back in Massachusetts, Perry formed a band with bassist Tom Hamilton that would soon add singer Steven Tyler to the lineup. By 1973, Aerosmith’s single “Dream On” had climbed to No. 1 in Boston, launching a career that would eventually land Perry at No. 48 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time. Funny enough, Perry plays right-handed despite being naturally left-handed, a quirk of the instructional record he first learned from.

These days, Perry isn’t slowing down even without Aerosmith on the road. Speaking to Billboard from his home in Florida, he’s been touring with a stacked new lineup of the Joe Perry Project, and this summer he hit the road across Europe with Hollywood Vampires, the supergroup he shares with Johnny Depp and Alice Cooper.

Frank Sinatra possessed an uncanny ear for timeless songs, but even he couldn’t have predicted the chaotic origin of his definitive late-career hit.

Martin Scorsese commissioned songwriters John Kander and Fred Ebb to write a new track for the soundtrack to his film New York, New York, starring Robert DeNiro and Liza Minnelli. However, one of the film’s stars wasn’t too keen on their original track.

According to Entertainment Weekly, the songwriters played “New York, New York” for the filmmaker and Minnelli, not knowing that DeNiro was also in the meeting. Kander said the moments that followed set the song on its path to iconic status.

“We saw an arm come up on the couch, and [Scorsese] said, ‘Excuse me,’ and he went over to talk to De Niro. There was a very animated conversation,” Kander began.

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“Scorsese came back and in a very embarrassed way said that, ‘De Niro feels that ‘The World Goes Round’ is a song which is attached to Liza’s character, and it’s very strong. And ‘New York, New York,’ which is attached to his character, is not.'”

The songwriters were told to work on the song. During a cab ride back to Ebb’s apartment, they came up with an idea. Forty-five minutes later, a new version of “New York, New York” was launched.

Kander explained, “We took a cab back to Fred’s apartment, and in 45 minutes, we wrote another song called ‘New York, New York,’ which is the one that you know. It has a lot of anger in it because we were really pissed off — it was like, ‘Some actor is going to tell us how to write a song?'”

However, the songwriter concluded that the revised version was better than their first crack at the song. “The fact is, De Niro was absolutely right,” Kander stated. “It’s a much better song.”

Minnelli originally performed the song for the 1977 film soundtrack and released it as a single, according to Smithsonian Magazine. However, the track found a massive second life when Sinatra, encouraged by his wife, Barbara, added it to his setlist during a legendary 1978 run at Radio City Music Hall.

Minnelli gave Sinatra her blessing to record the song. Smithsonian quoted his daughter, Tina Sinatra, who shared, “[Liza] told him, ‘It’s OK, Uncle Frank.’”

“New York, New York” landed on Sinatra’s 1980 triple LP, the hugely successful Trilogy: Past, Present, Future. Ol’ Blue Eyes version would elevate the song into an undisputed New York anthem.

Ironically, the beloved song never hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. It reached a peak position of 32 on the charts after 12 weeks.

“New York, New York” was nominated for a Grammy Award for Record Of The Year, but lost to Christopher Cross’ “Sailing.” Cross later told Songfacts, “Someone joked that I beat Sinatra, so I’d better watch my back.”

Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York” has since become the city’s unofficial anthem. It is played at professional sports games for the New York Yankees, Knicks, and Rangers and, since 2001, after the ball drops in Times Square every New Year’s Eve.

Related: 66 Years Ago Today, Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra Made TV History

In 1970, Grand Funk Railroad soared to new heights with the release of “I’m Your Captain (Closer to Home).” The Michigan-based band featuring guitarist Mark Farner, bassist Mel Schacher and drummer/singer Don Brewer delivered a song that not only became an anthem for the times but also brought them to the U.S. Billboard Top 40 for the first time ever.

More than 55 years later, “I’m Your Captain (Closer to Home)” remains as powerful as it was when it was first released.

Written by Farner, the 10-minute-long album track features a haunting, bluesy-rock melody that builds to an orchestral finale. Its lyrics, about a ship captain’s desperate journey home, have long been open to interpretation.

In a 2008 interview, Farner revealed that “I’m Your Captain” marked the first time that he wrote lyrics before coming up with any music for a song. He also revealed that those lyrics came to him after a prayer.

“I had gone to bed and prayed,” he told Nightwatchers House of Rock. “Our mother had taught us kids to pray the ‘Now I lay me down to sleep,’ so I finished that part of the prayer, and put a P.S. at the end of it, and I asked the Creator to give me a song which would reach and touch the hearts of people that he wanted to touch. With love, because I just felt the love. I just felt for my good friends, my high school buddies who had died in Vietnam. I saw their parents, and I saw their families, and I think that’s what inspired it.”

Farner told Songfacts that he was in a dreamlike state when he wrote down the words that came to him that night.

“I got up and I wrote it, and as I’m writing it, I’m between the state of subconscious and conscious,” he shared. “I’ve got one foot in dreamland and my pen is writing these words down. It didn’t make a whole lot of sense. It was kind of weird, I thought, as I was writing it. I didn’t sit there on the edge of the bed and read it over and over, I just wrote it down, and when I got to the end of it, I just folded it over and put it on the nightstand. There it was.”

While he didn’t realize it was a song at first, he later strummed his guitar to the words he had written down, and “I’m Your Captain” was born.

“I grabbed those words in the morning, because I was playing my guitar in the kitchen of the farm,” he told Nightwatchers House Rock. “As I was strumming the intro chords to ‘I’m Your Captain’ I went, ‘Hey man, maybe this is a song.’ So I went and got the words and started constructing the song out of it. I took it to rehearsal that day, and the guys said, ‘Man, this song’s a hit.’ And, lo and behold they were right.”

In addition to becoming a Billboard No. 22 hit, “I’m Your Captain” became an anthem for Vietnam veterans who longed to be home.

More than 50 years after its release, the song’s powerful message of hope still resonates. “That song is spiritual to me,” Farner told Goldmine magazine in 2024. “I prayed for that song.”

Related: 1965 Rock Classic, Featuring Lyrics Inspired by Reimagined Bible Passage, Ranked Among the ‘Most American Songs of All Time’

Everyone has their go-to fall coffee order—and it’s likely a reflection of their personality in some way. So, for a sense of your best bet, look no further than your birth date, which reflects your cosmic sense of self.

From toasted pecan to cranberry, pumpkin spice to cinnamon and maple, when it comes to sweet treats that channel the spirit of autumn, the sky’s the limit. While you might be a fan of baking pies, decorating cookies, or swinging by your local patisserie, there’s something universally appealing about sipping a coffee that sweeps you up in autumn vibes.

Your Birth Date’s Perfect Autumn Coffee Order Match

Read on to learn your ultimate autumn drink order, based on the day you came into the world. 

Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, or 28th: Salted Caramel Mocha 

You were born on a date associated with the sun, the luminary that rules self-image, confidence, and purpose in astrology. You’re not shy about showing up fully in the world exactly as you are, which mirrors the vibe of an intense mocha spiked with salted caramel. It’s super-sweet, a little bit dramatic, showstopping, and bold—just like you.

Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, or 29th: Pumpkin Spice Latte

You were born on a day that’s aligned with the moon, which rules intuition, instincts, and emotions. You’re sentimental, heartfelt, and tend to experience life through all your senses. That’s why the classic pumpkin spice latte is right up your alley. Whether you associate the flavor with sweet memories of your college days or nights cozied up by the fire with your love, the traditional favorite feels like a comforting passport to another time and place—something you can’t help but cherish.

MORE: Starbucks’ Fall 2026 Menu Causes a Stir After Fan-Favorite Drink Is Missing

Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, or 30th: Maple Pecan Pie Latte

Your birth date reduces down to three, a number ruled by Jupiter, the largest planet in our solar system that oversees abundance, expansion, and good fortune. You’re a fan of going big or going home, which is why you’re apt to choose a fall coffee drink that doesn’t mess around, serving up a punch of sweetness in every sip. A maple pecan pie latte is festive, fun, and decadent, all traits that mirror your personality.  

Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, or 31st: Yuzu Ginger Spiced Cider 

Your birth date reduces down to four, which is associated with Uranus, the planet of rebellion, electricity, and sudden change. Conforming to anything tried-and-true, mainstream, or traditional doesn’t sit right with your quirky, unconventional spirit, so your fall coffee order is, well, not even a coffee. You’d prefer a blend of flavors that are a little bit different, like a yuzu ginger spiced cider that shakes things up with unique citrus from the yuzu and heat from the ginger.

Born on the 5th, 14th, or 23rd: Cinnamon Maple Cortado

Because you were born on a day that reduces down to the number five, your numerological planetary ruler is Mercury, the planet of technology, transportation, storytelling, and cerebral energy. You’re a master communicator who’s super-social and eager to absorb and share information at every turn, so you need a fall coffee drink that keeps you flitting from one thing to the next. With spicy cinnamon, sweet maple, caffeine-packed espresso, and steamed milk, a cortado suits your desire for a serious buzz. 

READ: The 3 Birth Months Entering Their Luckiest Era This Autumn

Born on the 6th, 15th, or 24th: Apple Crisp Cold Foam Cold Brew

If you came into the world on one of these dates, you were born with the influence of Venus, the planet of romance, art, and music. You’re drawn to pursuits of pleasure, luxury, and beauty, which is why your fall coffee order has to be as aesthetically appealing. You’d go for a cold brew with a creamy cold foam flavored like the most luscious apple pie that’s equally social media-worthy and sweet. 

OTHER: These 4 Birth Months Radiate a Nurturing Aura

Born on the 7th, 16th, or 25th: Honey Lavender Latte

Because your birth date reduces down to seven, a number aligned with Neptune, the planet of illusion, spirituality, and dreams, you’re artistic, sensitive, and even slightly psychic. Lavender might not be the flavor you necessarily associate with autumn, but paired with rich honey, it feels a little more tailored to harvest time. The combo is classic, calming, a little bit luxurious, and quite dreamy, which fits your imaginative, mystical nature.  

Born on the 8th, 17th, or 26th: French Press Iced Coffee with Homemade Cinnamon Syrup

Because you were born on a date that reduces down to the number eight, you’re industrious, tradition-loving, mature, and pragmatic, thanks to your birthday’s association with Saturn, the planet of commitment, limitations, and hard work. You have so much on your plate that you take your caffeine fix seriously, which is why a French press iced coffee spiked with a homemade cinnamon simple syrup feels aligned with your no-nonsense nature. Forget the creamer, cold foam, or anything else fluffy—you prefer to take your fall coffee order black and slightly sweet.

Born on the 9th, 18th, or 27th: Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

If your birth date reduces down to nine, you’re a go-getter who’s motivated, youthful, impulsive, competitive, and action-oriented, given that the day you were born is associated with Mars, the planet of action, and energy. You don’t necessarily need more fuel, because you have so much innate get-up-and-go, but a little extra oomph is always welcome, given your action-oriented nature, so a shaken espresso flavored with direct, to-the-point brown sugar—which gives autumn vibes without being so on-the-nose—feels right up your alley.

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Late summer and early fall calls for clothing that moves with you, offers breathable coverage, and looks effortlessly put-together, whether you’re curled up at home or stepping out for errands. The key is finding pieces that are comfy and stylish, and we found the perfect solution at Walmart. Right now, the retailer has its bestselling Mintreus Lounge Set marked down to as low as $18, a solid savings from its original $34 price tag. 

This set is a relaxed short-sleeved combo that you can wear in and out of the house all year-round. It has a top with a crew neckline and side slits, and is paired with comfortable long pants complete with an elastic waistband and handy side pockets.

Mintreus Lounge Set, From $18 (was $34) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Made from soft, lightweight rayon fabric, this set is the perfect balance between pajama comfort and street-ready style. The oversized fit and side slit details look great on all body types, while the high-stretch material ensures you can move freely without feeling restricted. Choose from an impressive 32 colors and prints, with sizes ranging from small to 2XL.

The Walmart find has racked up over 7,600 glowing five-star reviews, so it’s obvious that shoppers adore this set. One customer raved that while it’s great for relaxing at home, the “absolutely amazing” set can also be worn out with some smart styling. “Dress them up with a little bit of jewelry and a cute sandal, and I’m ready to go. I actually just ordered two more pairs in different colors. They’re so buttery soft and cool.”

This shopper isn’t the only one who loved the set so much that they stocked up on multiple pairs: “The fabric is stretchy but not clingy. Very flattering as it does not show bumps or any imperfections. I get so many compliments on it. I have it in four colors.”

The rayon fabric gets particularly praise from customers for its subtle cooling effect, which is great for those who tend to run hot at times. As a bonus, the set is machine washable, so it’ll be easy to maintain throughout countless wears in the years ahead.

For as low as $18, the Mintreus Lounge Set delivers serious value for a piece that can easily transition from bedtime to coffee runs. Grab your favorite color while it’s marked down at Walmart. This can’t-miss deal will only last for a limited time, and the loungewear duo may sell fast at this price!

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Every holiday season, Don Powell’s drumming returns to the radio with the opening seconds of “Merry Xmas Everybody.”

Powell turns 80 today, Sept. 10. Born in Bilston, England, in 1946, he spent more than 50 years behind the drums for Slade, one of Britain’s biggest rock bands of the 1970s.

“Merry Xmas Everybody” became Slade’s sixth and biggest U.K. No. 1 in December 1973. The single spent five weeks at the top and has returned to the British charts during numerous holiday seasons.

Powell’s interest in drumming started in the Boy Scouts. He later studied metallurgy and worked at a foundry before deciding to pursue music full time. He joined a local group called the Vendors, where he first played alongside guitarist Dave Hill.

The Vendors became the ‘N Betweens and added bassist Jim Lea and singer Noddy Holder. After a short period as Ambrose Slade, the group dropped “Ambrose” and found its classic name.

Slade’s first U.K. Top 20 single, “Get Down and Get With It,” arrived in 1971. “Coz I Luv You” reached No. 1 later that year, beginning a run that also included “Take Me Bak ‘Ome,” “Mama Weer All Crazee Now,” “Cum On Feel the Noize” and “Skweeze Me, Pleeze Me.”

Powell’s career nearly ended at the height of the band’s success. He was seriously injured in a July 1973 car crash that killed his girlfriend, Angela Morris. The drummer survived but experienced lasting memory loss and lost his senses of taste and smell.

When Powell returned to the road, his bandmates sometimes had to remind him how a song began. Once he heard the opening, however, he could play the rest.

“I’d forgotten all the Slade songs,” he later explained in an interview. “Once they were sort of sung to me again, it was OK.”

Slade recorded “Merry Xmas Everybody” in New York during one of the hottest days of the summer. Holder and Lea wrote the song, which the band released that December.

The holiday hit has accumulated more than 2.38 million chart units, including over 1.3 million in pure sales, according to the Official Charts Company.

Powell remained with Slade until 2020 and published his autobiography, Look Wot I Dun: My Life in Slade, in 2013. In 2025, he discussed his new project, Don & The Dreamers, in an interview.

At 80, Powell is still making music. Come December, that opening drumbeat will be hard to miss.

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

In the 1970s, Lynyrd Skynyrd helped define Southern rock with songs including “Sweet Home Alabama,” “Free Bird” and “Gimme Three Steps.” More than five decades later, those songs are still keeping the legendary band on the charts.

Lynyrd Skynyrd’s All Time Greatest Hits has re-entered Billboard’s Top Rock Albums chart at No. 24, adding another week to a remarkable chart history that now totals more than 1,000 weeks across multiple Billboard rankings.

Released in 2000, All Time Greatest Hits has logged 370 weeks on the Billboard 200, 287 weeks on Top Rock Albums, 382 weeks on Top Rock & Alternative Albums, 10 weeks on Top Album Sales, four weeks on Billboard Canadian Albums and two weeks on Top Streaming Albums.

Combined, that amounts to 1,055 chart weeks for the collection, counting its appearances across the six rankings.

The 14-track collection reaches back to Lynyrd Skynyrd’s 1973 debut (Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd) for “Gimme Three Steps” and “Simple Man,” while “Sweet Home Alabama,” “Swamp Music,” “The Ballad of Curtis Loew” and “Call Me the Breeze” come from 1974’s Second Helping.

The album also includes “Saturday Night Special,” “Gimme Back My Bullets,” “What’s Your Name,” “You Got That Right” and “That Smell,” among others.

Instead of the studio recording of perhaps the band’s most famous song, the collection closes with a sprawling live version of “Free Bird,” recorded at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre in July 1976 and originally released on the live album One More from the Road.

Related: Southern Rock Pioneer, Who Launched Lynyrd Skynyrd & The Allman Brothers, Dies at 83

All Time Greatest Hits has previously climbed as high as No. 38 on the Billboard 200 and No. 8 on Top Rock Albums. The collection was certified platinum by the RIAA in 2005, signifying 1 million units in the United States.

Lynyrd Skynyrd’s longevity comes more than half a century after the Jacksonville, Fla., band released its debut album in 1973.

Rolling Stone ranks the group No. 95 on its list of the “100 Greatest Artists of All Time,” with the tribute written by Al Kooper, who discovered Lynyrd Skynyrd and produced the band’s first three studio albums.

Kooper recalled being struck not only by the band’s songs but also by its work ethic and meticulous arrangements, writing that Lynyrd Skynyrd eventually “transcended the Southern-rock tag.”

“They became one of the greatest rock & roll bands in history,” Kooper wrote.

The band’s original run ended tragically following the Oct. 20, 1977, plane crash that killed frontman Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines and backup singer Cassie Gaines, Steve’s sister. A decade later, Lynyrd Skynyrd reunited with Van Zant’s younger brother Johnny Van Zant taking over as lead vocalist.

The band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2006. Founding guitarist Gary Rossington, the final surviving original member, died in 2023.

Yet Lynyrd Skynyrd’s music has continued finding new generations of listeners, and All Time Greatest Hits returning to the Top Rock Albums chart after more than 1,000 combined weeks across Billboard rankings is one more indication of just how enduring that catalog has become.

Related: Doobie Brothers Rock Hall of Famer, Who Later Formed an ’80s Country Supergroup, Turns 76

One of the most beloved power pairings in travel loyalty is officially coming to an end.

American Airlines and Hyatt announced that they have “mutually decided to not continue” their enhanced loyalty partnership. For years, the cross-brand tie-up has been a goldmine for frequent flyers and hotel loyalists, allowing travelers to fast-track airline elite status from hotel stays, unlock Hyatt free night awards with flight miles, and snag free extra-legroom seat passes.

While the breakup marks the end of an era for savvy points-and-miles collectors, the curtain isn’t closing overnight. Current perks won’t vanish immediately, but there is a crucial deadline approaching that every traveler needs on their radar.

Related: How to Maximize Credit Card Points for Flights

View this post on Instagram The Critical Deadline

If you want to squeeze every last drop of value out of this partnership before it winds down, you must link your AAdvantage and World of Hyatt accounts by 11:59 p.m. CT on November 15.

If your accounts are already linked, you do not need to do anything. But if they aren’t linked by that mid-November cutoff, your window to cross-earn will close on the spot.

Related: How to Pick the Best Airline Loyalty Program

The Sunset Timeline

Once your accounts are linked, both brands are honoring reciprocal rewards through the end of their respective program years:

• For World of Hyatt Members: You can continue earning American Airlines perks (like Main Cabin Extra seating coupons and AAdvantage status milestones) through December 31. Any awards earned before the end of the year can still be selected within Hyatt’s standard 90-day selection window.
• For American Airlines AAdvantage Members: Because American’s elite status qualification year runs through late winter, members can continue earning World of Hyatt awards (including Category 1–4 and Category 1–7 free night awards) through February 28, 2027.

What Actually Survives the Split?

After the enhanced perks, status challenges, and milestone crossover awards officially conclude, one legacy perk will remain: AAdvantage members will still be able to earn a flat 500 American Airlines miles per eligible stay in lieu of earning World of Hyatt points simply by showing their AAdvantage number at hotel check-in.

You will also still be able to convert Hyatt points into American miles, though points experts universally caution against this because the transfer ratio typically offers poor value compared to free hotel nights.

What Travelers Should Do Right Now

• Link your accounts immediately: Head to either American’s or Hyatt’s site and verify that your loyalty numbers are connected so you don’t miss out on rewards you’re already on track to hit this fall.
• Check your progress toward 2026 milestones: If you are a few nights or Loyalty Points away from unlocking a seat coupon, free night award, or tier bump through the partner program, map out your upcoming travel before the deadlines hit.
• Look at Hyatt’s new horizon: The breakup follows Hyatt’s recently launched collaboration with Air Canada Aeroplan, signaling that the hotel giant is already testing new international airline waters for future reciprocal perks.

Related: Why You Need to Book Thanksgiving and Christmas Flights This Week, According to the Points Guy (Exclusive)