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Uncle Junior is back at war with the garbage disposal.

The Sopranos stars Dominic Chianese, 95, and Aida Turturro, 64, reunited to recreate one of the HBO series’ funniest moments (yeah, we know there’s a lot, but this one’s up there), and fans couldn’t get enough of seeing the two slip back into character.

In the Instagram clip, Chianese mouths the words Corrado “Junior” Soprano says when he finds his hand trapped in the sink’s garbage disposal. Turturro, who played Tony Soprano’s (James Gandolfini) sister Janice, stands nearby as the pair reenact the memorable scene from Season 2, Episode 11, “House Arrest.”

“Why didn’t you call the plumber?” Turturro asks Chianese in the famous New Jersey Italian/American accent. “With what my f**kin’ toes!?” Chianese responds, hand in the disposal and all.

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Turturro coauthored the post with Chianese with the caption, “Some things just don’t need a caption 🤌,” she wrote.

Fans filled the comments with their favorite “Uncle Jun” lines and let the pair know how iconic the skit was.

“The collab we all needed on insta, thank you,” one said, while another wrote, “No way 😂😂😂😂👏👏👏.”

“Omg god bless you two for doing this,” another shared.

A fourth replied, “Uncle Jun’ still got it!”

What happened in the episode?

Fans of the series will remember that Junior’s kitchen mishap lasted for hours before Janice arrived at his house with Richie Aprile (David Proval). Junior desperately asks them to grab dish soap, and Richie helps free his hand—but not before Janice delivers the scene’s most memorable lines.

READ MORE: ‘Sopranos’ Fans Notice Eerie Coincidence the Same Day Vincent Pastore Died

The ridiculous predicament was actually part of a bigger storyline for Junior, who was stuck at home under house arrest and attempting to hide his legal troubles from Catherine Romano, the widow of an old friend who had recently reentered his life.

Dominic Chianese is revisiting his incredible career

In September, Chianese launched the video podcast Dominic & Junior with his 62-year-old son, Dominic Chianese Jr. The show gives the elder Chianese a chance to preserve stories from a career that stretches from The Godfather Part II to The Sopranos—and future episodes are expected to include some familiar faces, People reported in early September.

Chianese admitted to the outlet that recording his stories initially made him “a little frightened,” knowing how many people could eventually hear them.

On June 15, 1957, the city of Tulsa, Oklahoma, buried a brand-new Plymouth Belvedere in a concrete vault in front of its courthouse. When it came out 50 years later, it had been sitting in nearly 2,000 gallons of water.

The car was the centerpiece of Tulsarama!, a celebration of Oklahoma’s 50 years of statehood. It was a gold and white Belvedere with just four miles on the odometer, according to autoevolution, and it went into a 12-by-20-foot concrete vault, per AP coverage on CBS News. The vault was built to withstand a nuclear attack, the AP reported. Organizer Sharon King Davis is the one who gave the car its nickname, Miss Belvedere.

The deal was simple. Tulsans guessed what the city’s population would be in 2007, and whoever came closest would win the car plus a $100 savings account, according to the AP story in The Spokesman-Review. Raymond Humbertson’s guess of 384,743 beat the field. The actual 2007 population was 382,457, according to Paleofuture.

The opening of the fifty-year-old vault drew thousands of spectators. On June 15, 2007, crews removed a protective wrapping caked in red mud to reveal a car covered in rust that wouldn’t start, the AP reported. According to autoevolution, about 2,000 gallons of water had built up inside the vault, reaching a depth of about four feet. “I’ll tell you what, she’s a mess. Look at her,” said hot rod builder Boyd Coddington.

The crowd didn’t seem to mind. “It’s our King Tut’s tomb,” car enthusiast Dave Stragand told NBC News. “It’s like a fairy tale.”

Not everything inside was ruined, though. The vault held a can of leaded gasoline and rusted cans of Schlitz beer, but a separate time capsule held an unfaded American flag, historical documents and aerial city maps in good condition, per the AP.

The prize had a twist, too. Humbertson had died in 1979, so the car went to his heirs. Dwight Foster of the shop Ultra One donated about $20,000 in work to stabilize it, and the car has been on display since 2020 at Historic Auto Attractions in Roscoe, Illinois, according to Old Cars Weekly. “People love a story like this,” museum owner Wayne Lensing said.

Some time capsules are still waiting. Dolly Parton, for one, sealed a song in one that isn’t set to open until 2045.

Kansas City Chiefs heiress Gracie Hunt had a short but eye-catching reaction to Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham’s latest pregame fashion post.

Cunningham shared several photos showing off her pregame looks ahead of the Fever’s Game 3 matchup against the Las Vegas Aces. 

Hunt joined the comments with four fire emojis, writing: “I mean 🔥🔥🔥🔥”

Hunt was not the only familiar name to react. Brittany Mahomes also left three fire emojis, while actor Taylor Lautner encouraged Cunningham by writing, “Let’s go ya got this! 🙏🏽”

Cunningham’s post included different looks from her pregame arrival and time around the court.

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In one of the photos and clip, the 30-year-old basketball player wore a fitted white ribbed mini dress. The dress had short sleeves, a high neckline and a small zipper in front that stopped just below her collarbone.

The dress had a fitted shape and ended high on her thighs.

Cunningham kept the rest of the look simple. She wore dark rectangular sunglasses and a silver-tone watch on her wrist. Her long blonde hair was worn loose, falling over one shoulder. Her makeup was polished, with a soft lip color that kept the look simple.

The overall outfit gave Cunningham a clean and sporty fashion look as she prepared for another important playoff game.

Another slide showed a much bolder outfit.

Cunningham wore a black sleeveless top with high-waisted leopard-print shorts. She added a long leopard-print duster coat that was left open, allowing the black top and shorts to remain visible.

She completed the look with black strappy high-heeled sandals and a small gold necklace with a pendant. Her blonde hair remained loose and slightly windswept, while her makeup included a strong red lip.

The two outfits showed different sides of Cunningham’s pregame style, from the simple white dress to the bold leopard-print combination.

This is not the first time Hunt and Cunningham have interacted publicly on social media.

The two have previously exchanged friendly comments online. In August, Hunt sent Cunningham a birthday message after the Fever guard turned 30. Cunningham’s birthday post included a white off-shoulder corset top and matching pants, along with basketball photo. 

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“Happy birthday!! 🎊🥳” Hunt commented.

Hunt is the daughter of Kansas City Chiefs owner Clark Hunt and has built a public profile around sports, fashion and her family’s NFL team.

She has also been sharing major personal updates this year. Hunt announced her engagement to Derek Green in April. Green is the son of former NFL quarterback Trent Green. Hunt later shared photos and videos from their engagement celebration at Arrowhead Stadium, where she and Derek revisited the place where their relationship began.

For Cunningham, fashion has become a regular part of her growing public profile alongside basketball. She joined the Indiana Fever in 2025 and has continued to attract attention away from the court through social media, media appearances and fashion projects.

The latest outfit post came during a tense point in Indiana’s playoff series against Las Vegas. Cunningham’s posts have continued to draw attention while the Fever compete in the postseason.

Related: Chiefs Heiress Gracie Hunt Shows Off Impressive Skill After Landing New Job

A front porch does not need overflowing planters or a major decorating budget to feel festive in fall. One thoughtfully chosen detail can introduce seasonal color, make an entrance look more pulled together and give guests a warm welcome before they ever ring the doorbell.

While pumpkins, wreaths and lanterns tend to get plenty of attention this time of year, the space directly underfoot is an easy place to add personality. A decorative mat can provide a foundation for the rest of an entryway display, particularly when it picks up shades already found in nearby flowers, door decor or outdoor cushions.

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Welcome Pumpkins Doormat, $7.19 at Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby’s Welcome Pumpkins Doormat offers a cheerful way to complete that seasonal setup. The 18-by-30-inch mat pairs a dark background with a traditional greeting, surrounded by pumpkins in harvest-inspired gold, orange and green.

The design has enough color to stand on its own but still works well with a range of fall decor styles. For a traditional look, place it next to orange pumpkins and pots of yellow mums. For something more neutral, add cream-colored pumpkins, woven baskets and a simple grapevine wreath. It could also be layered over a larger black-and-white plaid outdoor rug to create extra dimension at the door.

Related: Tractor Supply’s Must-Have Halloween Find Brings the Wild West Right to Your Front Yard

Hobby Lobby recommends keeping the mat in a covered, dry space and away from direct sunlight, since excess moisture or sun exposure can affect the colors.

It is currently discounted to $7.19 from $11.99 as part of Hobby Lobby’s 40 percent off fall promotion. That makes it an easy seasonal addition for shoppers who want to refresh an entryway before Halloween visitors, weekend gatherings or Thanksgiving hosting.

For under $15, this holiday find delivers a welcoming autumn message without demanding a complete porch redesign.

Related: Costco’s Beautiful and Plush Accent Rug Is the High-End Look for Less Your Space Needs

In 1997, an Ohio basket company finished a new headquarters shaped like a seven-story picnic basket. It cost about $32 million. Twenty years later, it sold for $1.2 million.

The building belonged to Longaberger, a basket maker that started in 1976 in Dresden, Ohio, according to Atlas Obscura. When it was time for a new home office, founder Dave Longaberger brought a medium market basket to a meeting with architects and said, “This is what I want. If you can’t do it, I’ll find someone who can,” according to Roadtrippers. His reasoning, as Roadtrippers tells it: “I figured if Walt Disney could build an empire around a mouse, the Longaberger home office building could resemble a basket.”

As one would see, Longaberger eventually got his basket. The finished building in Newark, Ohio, has seven stories and about 180,000 square feet, and its two handles on top are heated in winter to keep ice from building up. Axios Columbus reports it is about 160 times larger than a medium-sized basket.

The cost was about $32 million, according to Facility Executive. Dave Longaberger died in 1999, and the company’s fortunes faded after peaking around the early 2000s, with about $1 billion in revenue and 8,000 employees, per Axios.

With its visionary gone, the basket spent years on the market. It finally sold on Dec. 29, 2017, to developers Steve Coon and Bobby George, according to Atlas Obscura. The price was $1.2 million, plus more than $800,000 in back taxes owed on the property, per Facility Executive.

The new owner promised the building would still look like itself. “The Longaberger Basket Building is known all over the world, and I can’t tell you how excited I am to preserve and renovate this building,” Coon said. Peter Ketter, a preservation architect, added, “It’s going to continue to look like a basket.” And so it has until today.

Coon’s plans for a hotel stalled, however, and the basket is back on the market. Smithsonian Magazine reported in June 2026 that it is listed for $8.5 million. The listing agent, Brandon Hess, told the magazine that “people love it. It’s just such a fun building; it brings a smile to everyone.”

The sale comes with one condition. Coon told The New York Times that one potential buyer made an offer but “wanted to take the handles off and they didn’t want it to look like a basket.” “It was a hard no from me,” he said. “I said, ‘That’s not going to happen. It’s got to stay a basket or I won’t sell it.'”

In a world where simplified, minimalist design is the norm, a building like this holds on to an era when people had more whimsy and were more willing to be out of the ordinary.

Longaberger’s basket isn’t the only building with an unlikely story. A Seattle farmhouse that a five-story complex was built around may have inspired the house in Pixar’s “Up.”

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While the most balmy days of the year are behind us, there’s still plenty of gorgeous weather left to enjoy this fall. If you want to optimize your outdoor space for autumn relaxation while the warm temperatures last, Walmart is offering a slew of enticing end-of-season deals on everything from cozy patio sets to charming solar lighting. Don’t know where to start? This Pirecart 2-in-1 Canopy Swing at Walmart might just be the addition your home needs. 

Right now, you can score this swinging bench on sale for a limited time! It normally retails for $330, but it’s now on sale for $176 in all hues. This is an amazing deal, considering that it can fit up to three people! You can choose from three fabulous colors: beige, blue, and red. 

Pirecart 2-in-1 Canopy Swing, $176 (was $330) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

This porch swing is designed to give you the optimal lounging experience. Featuring a large canopy, it’ll provide you with shade to keep you cool while protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. As the sun’s position shifts, you can adjust the angle of the canopy along with it. You can tilt it forward and backward up to 45 degrees. 

Filled with high-density foam, the seat and back cushions are 2.4 inches thick. Shoppers say they’re incredibly soft and supportive, delivering the utmost comfort as you lounge around. Measuring around 21 inches deep, the seat cushions provide enough depth so you can sink into them without feeling like you’re going to slip off. The bench is about 57 inches wide and designed to fit up to three people comfortably. 

One of the bench’s most notable features is its 2-in-1 design. In just seconds, you can take it from a bench into a daybed by unbuckling the backrest and laying it flat. It’ll turn your outdoor space into a beachy resort-like spot where you can kick your feet up and unwind or take a midday nap. 

Pirecart 2-in-1 Canopy Swing, $176 (was $330) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Built to last, the frame is made with high-quality steel. The bench is connected to the top of the frame by heavy-duty springs and has a 750-pound weight capacity. The springs allow this bench to steadily sway back and forth, creating that soothing motion for instant relaxation. 

One shopper described this swing as “very comfortable and pretty.” Another reviewer said that it’s “a nice addition” to their deck and added that it’s “sturdy, beautiful, and inviting.”

The canopy and cushion covers are both made of waterproof polyester fabric that’ll hold up to wet weather conditions. They’re also UV-proof, ensuring that it withstands strong UV rays. Multiple shoppers attested to the quality, noting that the color hasn’t faded despite being left outside for long periods of time. 

Overall, this swing measures 71.6 inches wide, 42.5 inches deep, and 70 inches high. Wherever you decide to place it, it’ll transform your outdoor space into an inviting and relaxing getaway. It’ll look fabulous anywhere, whether it’s on your porch, patio, or deck. 

As a bonus, several customers noted that this swing is really easy to assemble. They also said that it’s really sturdy and durable. 

Related: Walmart’s $87 Rolling Island Is a ‘Beautiful’ Way to Add Storage to Cramped Kitchens

Ready to turn your backyard into a cozy fall oasis that you’ll never want to leave? If so, head to Walmart and snag the Pirecart 2-in-1 Canopy Swing while it’s still on sale for $176! Be sure to hurry because it’s only available at this amazing flash price for a limited time. 

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.

Iconic Doobie Brothers singer Michael McDonald is a dad! That is, the Grammy winner is a dad again.

The 74-year-old, who has two children with his wife, Amy Holland, recently learned he has an almost 60-year-old son. So who is McDonald’s mystery child? As it turns out, the pair share more than genes. They also share the same first name. 

Michael Goessling is a St. Louis native who was adopted as an infant. Goessling’s parents have always been honest with him about the adoption. And no, he doesn’t think he missed out on the luxe life of growing up with a famous father. He recently told First Alert 4 News, “Had a wonderful childhood. I could not pick two finer folks to raise me.” 

Even though Goessling was happy with his family, he always wondered where he came from. Thanks to a 23andMe DNA test, he got answers. But it didn’t start with McDonald. Goessling first met his biological sibling online. “Within 36 hours, he got an email notifying him: Michael Goessling, half-brother, St. Louis.” From there, he met his biological mother in person and eventually connected with his father over the phone. 

How did Goessling connect the dots? As it turns out, McDonald didn’t lead with, “I’m that Michael McDonald.” Instead, as the father-son duo got to know each other, McDonald said he was preparing for a summertime tour that would stop in St. Louis. That’s when a lightbulb went off, and Goessling asked, “Are you Michael McDonald?” According to Goessling, his dad replied, “Yeah, I’m afraid so.” 

Michael McDonald. Photo: Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images

Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images

After the reunion, McDonald shared with First Alert 4 News, “We always talked about him. And it came down to our greatest fear was, how did life treat him? I always carried that guilt with me. But just to know that he was okay and that he had a good life, and a life certainly that I wouldn’t have been able to afford at the time, was a great reward. The real rock stars in this story are his adoptive parents.”

Reportedly, McDonald remained friends with Goessling’s mother. The legendary musician married Grammy-nominated singer Holland in 1983. The couple’s children, Scarlett and Dylan, are now in their 30s.  

While McDonald was only a teen when Goessling was born, the now-famous rocker eventually joined Steely Dan as a backing vocalist and keyboardist. Best known as part of The Doobie Brothers, McDonald wrote hits such as “Takin’ It to the Streets” and “What a Fool Believes.” He eventually launched a solo career, finding success with 1982’s “I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near)”, “1985’s “No Lookin’ Back,” and 1990’s “Take It to Heart.” 

When it comes to home cooking, grandma always knows best. The matriarch of the family often teaches the younger generations a thing or two about how to prepare a meal that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds. And if you’re lucky enough, she may even hand down her beloved recipes to you some day.

With fall weather arriving, the Parade team has been thinking a lot about the recipes our grandmothers used to make us, and we were curious to know which recipes remind chefs of their own grandmothers’ cooking. So we asked several chefs to help us curate a list of seven slow cooker dinner recipes grandmas would approve of.

Grandmas’ go-to recipes certainly vary from country to country, but one thing is the same across cultures: they love to cook for their families. So we were delighted when the chefs we spoke with shared a range of meals to represent the best Sunday family dinners across several cultures.

While chatting with the pros, we asked them why grandma’s slow cooker suppers still win Sunday dinner and picked up a few chef tips for slow cooker meals. So if you’re craving comfort food crockpot recipes or old fashioned slow cooker recipes, you’ve come to the right place.

Why Grandma’s Slow Cooker Suppers Still Win Sunday Dinner

Ereka Vetrini, a recipe developer and cookbook author whose book Well Fed comes out in March 2027, says grandma’s slow cooker suppers still win Sunday dinner for one simple reason.

“It draws family home and gathers them around the table. That familiar smell becomes a core memory of home, family and Sundays together that stays with you for years,” she says.

Jimmy Proffitt, a chef and the cookbook author behind Seasoned in Appalachia, says the ease of slow cooker recipes also makes them desirable.

“Since the bulk of the work was done hours before, if not the night before, you can serve yourself, and there’s time to visit because Grandma wasn’t stuck in the kitchen working on a big meal. It sets the pace for a day of rest and visitation. Those memories last long after the meal, and that’s what we really stop by for,” he says.

Matthew Cutolo, a third-generation chef and executive pastry chef at Gargiulo’s, echoes the other chefs’ sentiments, saying grandma’s slow cooker suppers give you a “feeling of home.”

“There’s something nostalgic about walking into a house and smelling something that’s been cooking low and slow for hours and you know Sunday dinner is coming before you even sit down at the table,” he says. “These meals were often made with simple ingredients, but they were really about family, tradition and bringing everyone together, and I think that warmth and comfort is why they still resonate today.”

Related: Crock Pot Beef Stew Tastes Like It’s Been Stewing All Day Even Though Your Slow Cooker Did All the Work

7 Classic Sunday Slow Cooker Recipes (And How Chefs Upgrade Them)

Ereka Vetrini

1. Slow Cooker Fall Minestrone

Cooking Time: 7 – 9 hours on Low or 4 – 6 hours on High
What Makes This Special: It’s a hearty, healthy option for cool days
Serves: 6 – 8

Vetrini always enjoyed eating her Nonna’s slow cooker fall minestrone soup when she was younger. Now, she’s given the recipe her own spin.

“Nonna used whatever veggies she had on had for the minestrone soup, but kale and butternut squash were never one of them. These are the veggies that fill my home in the fall,” she says. 

The cookbook author suggests stocking up on the following ingredients before getting started: 1½ cups dried cannellini beans, ⅓ cup olive oil, 2 celery stalks (finely minced), 2 medium carrots (finely minced), 1 large sweet yellow onion (finely minced), 2 teaspoons salt (plus more to taste), ½ teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste), ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, 1 large Yukon Gold potato (peeled and diced), 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth, 2 cups water (plus more as needed), 10 thyme sprigs, 1 Parmesan rind (optional), 1 small butternut squash (peeled, seeded and diced into ½-inch pieces), 1½ cups dry ditalini pasta, 1 large bunch lacinato (dinosaur) kale (ribs removed and leaves chopped), or 1 (12-ounce) bag spinach, grated parmigiano reggiano (for serving).

Start by soaking the dried cannellini beans in a large bowl and covering with a generous amount of water. Soak for 8 – 12 hours or overnight, then drain and rinse well.

Next, finely mince the celery, carrots and onion or place them in a food processor and pulse 20–25 times. Then, peel and dice the potato. Peel and seed the butternut squash, then cut it into ½-inch pieces. If using kale, remove the ribs and chop the leaves.

Now it’s time to set your slow cooker to the sauté or brown setting. Add olive oil, celery, carrots, onion, salt, pepper and rosemary. Sauté for 4 – 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Add the soaked and drained cannellini beans, potato, vegetable broth, water, thyme and parmesan rind. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on Low for 7 – 8 hours or High for 4 – 5 hours, until the beans are completely tender.

Remove and discard the thyme stems and turn the slow cooker to High. Stir in the butternut squash and the dry ditalini. If the soup needs more liquid, add 1 – 2 cups hot water or vegetable broth. Cover and cook on High for another 20–30 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the pasta is al dente and the squash is tender.

If using kale, stir it in during the final 10 – 15 minutes of cooking. If using spinach, stir it in during the final 3 – 5 minutes, just until wilted. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper. If the minestrone is too thick, stir in additional hot broth or water. Ladle into bowls and serve with freshly grated parmigiano reggiano.

Jimmy Proffitt

2. Slow Cooker Apple Butter Pulled Pork BBQ

Cooking Time: 10 – 12 hours
What Makes This Special: It’s a great transitional meal going from summer to fall
Serves: 10 – 15

As a child, Proffitt loved when his mom cooked pulled pork.

“It was something she could start late on Saturday night, so on Sunday it was ready right after church. Since the slow cooker did most of the work, she could relax the rest of the day,” he says.

Now, Proffitt upgrades the recipe with his overnight apple butter and coleslaw.

“I’ve taken it a step further and borrowed inspiration from the apple cider she also served from that slow cooker,” he says. “In my cookbook, Seasoned In Appalachia, I have a recipe for my overnight apple butter, which I make each fall. This recipe calls for one half-pint jar of that apple butter, but your favorite will work just fine. I also worked up my own dry rub, where she mostly seasoned with salt, pepper and onion powder,” he says.

To start, gather the following ingredients: 1 Boston Butt Pork Roast (boneless, 6-7 lbs.), 3 tablespoons of kosher salt, 2 tablespoons of smoked paprika, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of coarse cracked pepper, 1 pint of apple butter, 1 cup of a smoky BBQ sauce, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and 12 – 16 buns.

In a large slow cooker set on low, place your pork roast (fat side up). In a small bowl or cup, mix the kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder and cracked black pepper. Mix it well and shake half of it over the top of the roast and spread it evenly. Next, roll it over and repeat the process with the remaining rub. Roll it back over so that the fat side is up once again. Spread out half of the apple butter across the top. Place the lid on the slow cooker and let it go for 10 – 12 hours.

When the roast reaches an internal temperature of 195 – 205 in the thickest section, with the sweet spot being about 203, it should be very tender and is then ready to shred. Remove the roast from the slow cooker carefully onto a baking tray or into a large bowl. It will most likely come out in chunks. Gently spoon the apple butter and spices off the fat cap and set aside for the shredded meat. Remove as much of the fat as you can from the meat and discard. Drain the liquid from the slow cooker into a large measuring cup or bowl. You will have 3 – 4 cups of liquid. Set that aside to cool, allowing the fat to rise to the top to be skimmed off.

With a couple of forks, shred the tender meat and return it to the slow cooker. Mix together the remaining apple butter, BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar. Pour it over the shredded meat and stir or toss with tongs to coat all of the meat. If it looks a little dry, add a couple of tablespoons of the reserved juice once you’ve skimmed off the fat. It should not need it, though. You can also double the sauce recipe if you prefer it very saucy.

Once everything is combined, cover the meat with a sheet of parchment paper and place a few buns on top of the parchment. Put the lid back on and let it warm through for about 10 minutes. It will also warm and gently steam the buns. Serve with a scoop of coleslaw on top of the BBQ.

Related: Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup Recipe

Chris Valdes

3. Carne Con Papa aka Cuban Style Beef Stew

Cooking Time: 6–8 hours on Low
What Makes This Special: It’s a Cuban classic with tender beef, potatoes and vegetables
Serves: 6 – 8

Chris Valdes is a Cuban-American Miami-based chef, TV personality, celebrity caterer and cookbook author. He likes to upgrade this family recipes with red wine and tomato sauce.

“Carne con Papa is already incredibly comforting, but that splash of wine and the caramelized tomato paste give the sauce another level of depth,” he says. “I also sear my beef first. A slow cooker is incredible at making meat tender, but it can’t give you that beautiful caramelization you get from a hot pan. That extra step is worth it every single time.”

Start by gathering the following ingredients: 2 – 2½ lbs. beef chuck (cut into 2-inch chunks), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 medium onion (diced), 1 green bell pepper (diced), 4–5 garlic cloves (minced), 2 tablespoons tomato paste, ½ cup dry red wine, 1½ cups beef broth, 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce, 2–3 cilantro leaves, 2 carrots (sliced), 1½ lbs red potatoes (cut into chunks), 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 – 2 bay leaves, salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste).

Season the beef generously with salt and pepper then heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Working in batches, sear the beef until it’s browned on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.

In the same skillet, sauté the onion and green bell pepper until softened. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute or two so the tomato paste develops its flavor instead of just adding tomato flavor to the sauce.

Deglaze the pan with the red wine, scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce slightly. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker and add the beef broth, tomato sauce, cilantro, cumin, oregano and bay leaves.

Cover and cook on Low for approximately 6 – 8 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.

Add the carrots and potatoes during the final 2 – 3 hours of cooking so they become tender without completely falling apart. Taste, adjust the seasoning and serve with plenty of sauce.

Linda Ly

4. Spiced Apple Pear Butter

Cooking Time: 12 hours
What Makes This Special: It’s perfect for adding flavor to other recipes or for gifting
Serves: Makes 4 pints and 1 half pint

Linda Ly is a cookbook author whose books include The Route 66 Cookbook, The New Camp Cookbook, The Backyard Fire Cookbook and other titles. She also runs an award-winning lifestyle blog titled gardenbetty.com.

To create this spiced apple pear butter recipe, Ly suggests gathering the following ingredients first: 8 pounds mixed fresh fruit (she uses equal parts sweet apples, tart apples and pears), 2 cups apple cider (or water), 3 (3-inch) cinnamon sticks (broken apart) and 1 tablespoon whole allspice.

Up first, peel and core the fruit, then chop them up into small chunks so they cook quickly. Then, fill a six-quart slow cooker to the brim with the chopped fruit and add 2 cups of apple cider (or water). Cover with a lid and set your timer to four hours on High, making sure to stir occasionally.

If you prefer a smoother consistency for your butter, puree the fruit with an immersion blender while it’s in the slow cooker after the four hours are up.

Wrap a layer of cheesecloth around the cinnamon and allspice to create a spice sachet, then add it to the slow cooker. Next, prop the lid open slightly with a wooden spoon and let the steam escape. Reset the timer to eight hours on Low, making sure to stir every few hours.

Remove the spice sachet and transfer the butter into hot, clean pint jars, making sure to leave 1/2 inch of space at the top.

Finally, wipe the rims with a damp cloth then seal with lids and rings. Process the jars in boiling water for 10 minutes.

Chris Valdes

5. Cuban Style Slow-Cooked Oxtail Rabo Encendido

Cooking Time: 8 – 10 hours on Low
What Makes This Special: The sofrito adds rich flavor
Serves: 4 – 6

“Oxtail is Sunday dinner food to me. It needs time, but that’s exactly what makes it special. After hours of slow cooking, the meat becomes fall-off-the-bone tender and the sauce turns incredibly rich,” Valdes says.

The chef turns this classic dish into something unique with the addition of sofrito.

“I use both cilantro and culantro because culantro gives you that deeper Caribbean flavor that immediately reminds me of home. I also use a good amount of red wine and let it reduce before everything goes into the slow cooker. You end up with this incredibly rich sauce that tastes like it has been cooking with love all day, because it has,” he says.

Valdes suggests gathering the following ingredients to start: 3 – 4 lbs. oxtail, salt (for tasting), freshly cracked black pepper (for tasting), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 small onion (chopped), 1 green bell pepper (chopped), 4 garlic cloves, ¼ cup cilantro, 2 tablespoons culantro (recao), ¼ cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 cup dry red wine, 2½ cups beef stock, 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon ground cumin and 1 packet sazón.

Season the oxtails generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Then, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the oxtails in batches until deeply browned on all sides. Transfer them to the slow cooker.

Blend the onion, green bell pepper, garlic, cilantro, culantro and olive oil until you have a chunky sofrito. Add the sofrito to the same skillet and cook for several minutes until fragrant and slightly caramelized. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 1 – 2 minutes.

Deglaze with the red wine, scraping all those browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to reduce slightly. Pour everything over the oxtails in the slow cooker. Add the beef stock, bay leaf, oregano, cumin and sazón.

Cover and cook on Low for approximately 8 – 10 hours, or until the oxtail is incredibly tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Remove excess fat from the surface of the sauce, taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.

Related: We Asked 3 Chefs for Their Favorite ‘Underrated’ Slow Cooker Dish, and Their Answers Surprised Us

Matthew Cutolo

6. Sausage & Potatoes

Cooking Time: 5-6 hours on Low or 3–4 hours on High
What Makes This Special: It works equally well for breakfast, lunch or dinner
Serves: 6

When Cutolo was a child, his grandfather used to make this sausage and potatoes recipe all the time.

“It was always a family favorite. It’s simple, comforting and perfect for entertaining or feeding a crowd because everything cooks together in one pan,” he says.  

Before getting started, gather the following ingredients: 1 large onion (thinly sliced), 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes (cut into medium chunks), 1 (28-ounce) can plum tomatoes, 12 Italian sausages (mix of hot and sweet), ¼ cup dry white wine, ¼ cup grated parmigiano reggiano, Olive oil (to taste), salt and pepper (to taste).

Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausages and brown well on all sides. You aren’t looking to cook them through, just to develop color and flavor. Transfer to a plate.

Add the sliced onion to the same pan and cook for 2 – 3 minutes, just until it begins to soften. Deglaze the pan with the white wine, scraping up all of the browned bits. Let the wine reduce for about 1 minute.

Add the potatoes and onions to the bottom of the slow cooker. Crush the plum tomatoes by hand, leaving some texture, and add them along with their juices. Season with salt and black pepper and mix everything together.

Nestle the browned sausages into the vegetables and pour the wine and pan juices over everything and sprinkle in the parmigiano on top. Cover and cook on Low for 5 – 6 hours or High for 3 – 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the sausages are completely cooked through.

Ereka Vetrini

7. Slow Cooker Stuffed Pepper Soup

Cooking Time: 4 – 6 hours on Low
What Makes This Special: It’s a filling, well-seasoned soup
Serves: 6 – 8

Vetrini adds her own take on this classic recipe with additional spices like thyme and paprika.

“I also love a drizzle of balsamic at the end. Nonna would never,” she says. 

The chef recommends beginning by gathering the following ingredients: 1 (16-ounce) jar roasted red peppers (drained), 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 large onion (peeled and diced), 3 garlic cloves (minced or grated), 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 2 teaspoons salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 pound ground beef (85/15), 2 green bell peppers (diced), 1 (28-ounce) can peeled tomatoes, 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice, 1 cup frozen peas, 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus more for serving), croutons for serving (optional) and balsamic glaze for serving (optional).

Start by draining the roasted red peppers and blend in a blender or food processor until smooth. Set aside.

Set the slow cooker to the sauté or brown setting. Add the olive oil, onion, garlic, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, thyme and smoked paprika. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion begins to soften.

Add the ground beef directly to the slow cooker. Using a wooden spoon, break the beef into smaller chunks. Don’t worry about cooking it through. Add the diced green bell peppers, puréed roasted red peppers, canned tomatoes, chicken broth and uncooked Arborio rice. Stir well to combine.

Cover and cook on Low for 4 – 6 hours or High for 2 – 4 hours, until the rice is tender and the peppers have softened. Stir once or twice during cooking.

Stir in the frozen peas and grated parmesan. If the soup is thicker than desired, add a little additional chicken broth. Cover and cook for another 5 – 10 minutes, until the peas are heated through and the parmesan has melted into the soup.

Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and top with additional grated parmesan, croutons and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, if desired.

Related: 64 Crock Pot and Slow-Cooker Soup Recipes Perfect for Sweater Weather

The Golden Rule of Slow Cooking: What Chefs Never Do

When it comes to slow cooking, the pros have developed a few simple tricks to make sure their recipes come out perfectly. For chef, cookbook author and longtime NYT Cooking contributor Kay Chun, it starts with one simple rule.

“Never put frozen meat into a slow cooker. It encourages uneven cooking as well as a food
safety risk since the temperatures rise too slowly and could cause harmful bacterial growth,” she says.

Chun, who is releasing her debut cookbook Gather Around My Table: Simple, Flavorful Recipes from My Global Pantry on Oct. 6, also recommends slowly adding ingredients to your slow cooker.

“Don’t throw everything in at once. Take the time to brown/sauté meats and veggies first to
develop caramelization and a layer of deeper flavor,” she says.

Additionally, make sure to time the addition of certain ingredients.

“Don’t add dairy (milk, cream, cheese) until the end of cooking, otherwise it will curdle and
separate. Don’t add seafood (fish, shrimp) until the very end to prevent them from overcooking and becoming dry and rubbery,” she says.

Proffitt recommends avoiding opening the lid to check on your food.

“It’s a slow process, and each time you raise the lid, it releases heat and moisture. Just let the slow cooker do its job and leave it until you reach the last hour or two of a recipe. Each slow cooker can work differently, so times vary by as much as a couple of hours. If you can, invest in a meat thermometer so it takes the guesswork out of it,” Proffitt says.

Lastly, make sure to follow the heating instructions.

“If a recipe calls for it to cook on low, the recipe was developed that way on purpose. Switching it and cooking it on high may get the job done quicker, but results will vary from the intended recipe,” Proffitt says.

Sources:

• Kay Chun is a chef, cookbook author and longtime NYT Cooking contributor. She’s releasing her debut cookbook, Gather Around My Table: Simple, Flavorful Recipes from My Global Pantry on Oct. 6.
• Matthew Cutolo is a third-generation chef and executive pastry chef at Gargiulo’s.
• Linda Ly is a cookbook author whose books include The Route 66 Cookbook, The New Camp Cookbook, The Backyard Fire Cookbook and other titles. She also runs an award-winning lifestyle blog titled gardenbetty.com.
• Jimmy Proffitt is a chef and the cookbook author behind Seasoned in Appalachia.
• Chris Valdes is a Cuban-American Miami-based chef, TV personality, celebrity caterer and cookbook author. He likes to upgrade this family recipes with red wine and tomato sauce.
• Ereka Vetrini is a recipe developer and cookbook author whose book Well Fed comes out in March 2027.

Next, This Depression-Era Recipe Was Designed To Stretch a Dollar—Families Still Make It Today

Wendy Williams appears to be in good spirits.

The former talk show host was recently spotted out on the town, heading to dinner at Carnegie Diner & Cafe in New York City’s Times Square.

In images and video posted by Deux Moi on Instagram on Oct. 1, Williams smiles as she walks through Times Square arm in arm with an acquaintance. Wearing a patterned bomber jacket with white shorts, fishnet stockings, and Chanel high-tops, she makes her way to the popular New York City restaurant.

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She wears her hair down, bold makeup, and bright red nails, and appears to smile as she walks through the busy streets.

In the video, Williams talks with the person accompanying her, laughs, and flips her hair as she makes her way through Times Square.

Fans showed their support for the former talk show host, with commenters writing things like, “Can’t keep a Jersey girl down,” “Wendy is gonna show them legs!” and, of course, “How u doinnnnn?”

Wendy Williams’ Rare Public Appearance Comes Years After Her Talk Show Exit

Williams built a massive media empire on her unapologetic approach to celebrity culture.

Rising to prominence on New York radio, she launched The Wendy Williams Show in 2008. Her signature phrase, “How you doin’?” and her famous “Hot Topics” segment helped turn the program into a daytime TV staple.

But Williams’ health struggles eventually kept her away from the purple chair.

She missed much of the show’s 13th and final season, with guest hosts—including Sherri Shepherd—filling in. In February 2022, Debmar-Mercury announced that The Wendy Williams Show would end after 13 seasons and be replaced by Shepherd’s new talk show. The final episode aired June 17, 2022, without Williams.

That means Williams has now been away from her namesake talk show for more than five years.

Wendy Williams Has Spoken About Her Life Away From Television

Williams has occasionally spoken publicly about her life away from television.

In a June 2026 interview with The New York Post, she discussed her current circumstances and said she was living in a facility where she receives care. She also spoke about her reported diagnoses of dementia and aphasia.

Johnny Nunez / Getty Images

Those health issues have been the subject of considerable public discussion, but Williams’ own comments about her circumstances have sometimes differed from accounts offered by others in her life.

For that reason, her recent appearance offers a much simpler takeaway: Williams was out in New York, smiling, laughing, and seemingly enjoying a night away from the intense public scrutiny that has surrounded her in recent years.

A Wendy Williams Docuseries Is Coming in 2027

Williams’ former show is also returning to the spotlight.

Peacock has greenlit a three-part documentary about The Wendy Williams Show, tentatively titled Clap If You Care: The Wendy Williams Show. The project is scheduled for 2027 and will feature more than 20 former staffers discussing the show’s rise, cultural impact, and controversial ending. Longtime executive producer Suzanne Bass is among the executive producers.

Williams is not involved in the documentary, according to reports.

For now, though, fans are getting a glimpse of Williams out in New York City, looking happy and unbothered.

Related: Is America’s Favorite ‘Love Island USA’ Bombshell Really Engaged? Here Are the Clues

First names get most of the attention, but finding the right middle name can be just as important. A middle name can change the rhythm of a baby’s full name, honor a family member or give parents room to choose something they love without necessarily using it every day.

Starting with a specific letter can also make the search easier. And when it comes to “A” names, there are plenty of possibilities, including short choices like Ada, Amy, Asa and Ace to longer names such as Anastasia, Alexander, Aurelia and Archibald.

The Social Security Administration‘s baby-name database offers a useful look at the names American parents are choosing each year. The agency compiles its data from Social Security card applications and released its latest rankings for babies born in 2025. SSA doesn’t rank middle names separately, but its data can still provide inspiration for parents searching for names that feel current alongside more established choices.

Whether you’re looking for something traditional, modern or a little unexpected, these 100 “A” middle names include ideas for girls and boys, along with the origin and meaning behind each one.

Related: Go Ahead and Toss Out Your Old List—Here Are 300+ Unique Baby Names From the Last Decade!

Popular ‘A’ Middle Names for Girls

Jutta Klee / Getty Images

1. Ada — With Germanic roots, this short name means “noble.”
2. Adelaide — Derived from the Germanic name Adalheidis, it means “noble nature” or “noble kind.” The longer, elegant sound pairs nicely with shorter first names.
3. Agatha — Greek in origin, it comes from agathos, meaning “good.” The vintage feel gives it plenty of character without sounding overly ornate.
4. Agnes — With Greek roots, this traditional choice is associated with the meaning “pure” or “chaste.” Its concise sound gives it an old-fashioned charm.
5. Aisha — This Arabic name means “living” or “alive.” It also has deep historical significance through Aisha, the wife of the Prophet Muhammad.
6. Alice — Developed from the Old French Aalis, it ultimately traces back to Germanic roots and means “noble.” Its familiar sound has helped it remain enduringly popular.
7. Alma — Several linguistic connections surround this name, including the Latin almus, meaning “nourishing” or “kind.” In Spanish, alma also means “soul.”
8. Amabel — From the Latin amabilis, this medieval name means “lovable.” Its soft sound gives it an understated elegance.
9. Amara — In Igbo, the name means “grace.” It also appears across several cultures, giving it a broad international feel.
10. Amelia — Germanic in origin, it is associated with “work” or “industriousness.” It is also one of the most popular girls’ names in the United States.
11. Amity — Taken from the English word meaning “friendship” or “friendly relations,” it ultimately traces back to Latin. The virtue-style meaning gives it an especially warm quality.
12. Amy — Derived from the Old French Amée, it means “beloved.” Short and familiar, it works easily between both long and short names.
13. Anastasia — The feminine form of the Greek Anastasios, it means “resurrection.” Its four syllables give it a more dramatic, formal sound.
14. Andrea — Greek roots connect it to andreios, meaning “brave” or “manly.” Though used for both sexes internationally, it is typically a girl’s name in the U.S.
15. Angela — From the Greek angelos, it means “messenger.” The same root also gave rise to the English word “angel.”
16. Anthea — Derived from the Greek word anthos, meaning “flower” or “blossom.” It offers a subtle floral connection without feeling like an obvious botanical name.
17. Aria — In Italian, an aria is an expressive solo melody, particularly in opera. The musical association gives the name an elegant, lyrical quality.
18. Ariana — Commonly connected to the Greek Ariadne, it is traditionally interpreted as meaning “most holy.” Its flowing sound works especially well between shorter first and last names.
19. Ariel — Hebrew in origin, it means “lion of God.” Although historically masculine in Hebrew, it has also become widely used for girls in English-speaking countries.
20. Aster — Taken from the Greek word for “star,” it is also the name of a flowering plant. That gives it both celestial and botanical associations.
21. Astrid — An Old Norse name traditionally interpreted as “divinely beautiful.” It has a long history of use throughout Scandinavia.
22. Athalia — With Hebrew origins, it means “Yahweh is exalted.” The uncommon biblical name also has a lyrical, elegant sound.
23. Athena — Drawn from Greek mythology, this name is typically associated with wisdom, strategy and crafts. The ancient connection gives it a strong classical feel.
24. Audrey — Developed from the Old English Æðelþryð, this name draws from elements meaning “noble” and “strength.”
25. Aurora — Derived from the Roman goddess of dawn. This gives it a unique mythological connection.

Related: 125 Weird Baby Names for Parents Who Think Outside the Box

Unique ‘A’ Middle Names for Girls

26. Autumn — Taken from the English name for the season, it carries a warm, nature-inspired quality. Its familiar sound also makes it easy to pair with many first names.
27. Aurelia — Derived from the Latin family name Aurelius and aureus, meaning “golden.” The flowing sound adds an elegant touch to a full name.
28. Aviva — Hebrew in origin, it means “spring” or “springtime.” The seasonal meaning gives it a sense of renewal.
29. Azalea — A botanical name taken from the flowering shrub. The word ultimately comes from Greek and works well for parents looking for a less expected floral choice.
30. Alethea — From the Greek word aletheia, meaning “truth.” The virtue-style meaning gives this uncommon choice extra depth.
31. Althea — Greek in origin, it is connected to a word associated with “healing.” The name also appears in Greek mythology.
32. Ariadne — An ancient Greek name traditionally interpreted as “most holy.” In mythology, Ariadne helped Theseus escape the Labyrinth.
33. Atara — Hebrew for “crown.” Its short length makes it especially flexible as a middle name.
34. Adina — A Hebrew name generally interpreted as “delicate” or “gentle.” It appears in the Bible in masculine form but is commonly used for girls today.
35. Ahava — The Hebrew word for “love.” Its direct meaning gives it a warm and memorable quality.
36. Aliyah — From Hebrew, it means “ascent” or “rising.” The term also carries cultural significance in reference to Jewish immigration to Israel.
37. Aliza — Hebrew in origin, it means “joyful.” The upbeat meaning gives it an especially positive feel.
38. Amina — An Arabic name meaning “trustworthy,” “faithful” or “honest.” It has a long history of use across Arabic-speaking and Muslim communities.
39. Anya — The Russian form of Anna, it ultimately traces back to the Hebrew Hannah, meaning “grace” or “favor.” Its two syllables make it an easy fit with many first and last names.
40. Avril — The French word for “April.” It offers a less expected take on a month-inspired name.
41. Ayala — Hebrew in origin, it means “doe” or “female deer.” The nature-based meaning gives it a gentle quality.
42. Aziza — The feminine form of an Arabic name meaning “beloved,” “precious” or “powerful.” It combines a strong meaning with a smooth three-syllable sound.
43. Astra — From Latin, it is associated with “stars.” The celestial meaning makes it a distinctive alternative to more familiar space-inspired names.
44. Aurea — Latin in origin, it means “golden.” The name has a bright, luminous quality while remaining relatively uncommon.
45. Arcadia — Taken from the name of a region in ancient Greece. Through literature and art, the word later became associated with an idyllic, unspoiled natural setting.
46. Azura — A modern name connected to “azure,” the word for a bright blue color. The association gives it a vivid link to both color and sky.
47. Acacia — A botanical name for a group of flowering trees and shrubs. Its Greek roots and nature connection make it a distinctive option.
48. Apollonia — An ancient Greek feminine name derived from Apollo, the god associated with music, prophecy and healing. Its elaborate sound makes it especially striking as a middle name.
49. Alba — Latin roots connect it with albus, meaning “white” or “bright.” The word is also used for “dawn” in several Romance languages.
50. Amethyst — From the Greek amethystos, meaning “not intoxicated,” the gemstone was once believed to protect against drunkenness. Today, the name is more closely associated with the purple February birthstone.

Related: 125 Modern Baby Names for Boys and Girls

Popular Middle Names for Boys That Start With ‘A’

Catherine Delahaye / Getty Images

51. Aaron — A biblical name whose exact meaning is uncertain, though it has traditionally been associated with meanings such as “exalted” or “high mountain.” In the Bible, Aaron was the older brother of Moses.
52. Abel — From the Hebrew hevel, meaning “breath” or “vapor.” In the Bible, Abel is the second son of Adam and Eve.
53. Abraham — Hebrew in origin, it is traditionally interpreted as “father of many” or “father of multitudes.” Its biblical history gives it a deeply traditional feel.
54. Ace — From an English word ultimately derived from the Latin as, referring to a single unit. Modern usage also gives it associations with being No. 1 or excelling at something.
55. Adam — A Hebrew name closely connected with adamah, meaning “earth” or “ground.” It is one of the oldest and most recognizable biblical names.
56. Adrian — Derived from the Latin Hadrianus, meaning “from Hadria.” The ancient place name also gave rise to the Adriatic Sea.
57. Aidan — Irish in origin, it comes from Aodhán and is traditionally interpreted as “little fire.” Its compact sound makes it especially easy to use in the middle position.
58. Alaric — Germanic in origin, it means “ruler of all.” The name is also historically associated with Alaric I, king of the Visigoths.
59. Albert — From Germanic elements meaning “noble” and “bright.” Its long history gives it a distinctly traditional feel.
60. Alden — Developed from an Old English surname tied to a personal name meaning “old friend.” Despite its older roots, it has the feel of a modern surname-style name.
61. Aldric — Germanic in origin, it is commonly interpreted as “old ruler” or “wise ruler.” It offers a less familiar alternative to more established traditional choices.
62. Alfred — From Old English elements meaning “elf” and “counsel.” The name is famously associated with the ninth-century English king Alfred the Great.
63. Alexander — Greek in origin, it means “defender of men” or “defender of people.” Its history stretches back thousands of years, most famously through Alexander the Great.
64. Ambrose — From the Greek ambrosios, meaning “immortal.” The ancient roots give it a distinctive old-world quality.
65. Amir — Arabic in origin, it means “prince,” “commander” or “ruler.” The word has also historically been used as a title.
66. Anand — A Sanskrit name meaning “bliss” or “happiness.” It is widely used in India and other South Asian communities.
67. Anders — The Scandinavian form of Andrew, it ultimately comes from a Greek root associated with “manly” or “brave.” Its Nordic sound makes it feel distinct from more familiar forms.
68. Angus — The English form of the Scottish Gaelic Aonghus. Its elements are traditionally interpreted as “one” and “strength.”
69. Anirudh — Sanskrit in origin, it means “unobstructed,” “unrestrained” or “invincible.” The name also has roots in Hindu tradition and mythology.
70. Ansel — With Germanic origins, it is associated with the meaning “divine protection.” It may also bring to mind American photographer Ansel Adams.
71. Anwar — Arabic in origin, it is commonly translated as “brighter” or “more luminous.” The association with light gives it a positive quality.
72. Arjun — A Sanskrit name associated with meanings such as “bright,” “shining” or “white.” Arjuna is also one of the central heroes of the Hindu epic Mahabharata.
73. Archer — Developed from an English occupational surname for someone who used a bow and arrow. Its straightforward meaning gives it a strong, modern feel.
74. Archibald — Germanic roots connect it to elements associated with “genuine” and “bold.” The vintage name brings plenty of substance to the middle position.
75. Armand — The French form of a Germanic name built from elements meaning “army” and “man.” It combines a strong meaning with a polished sound.

Related: We’re Obsessed With These 125 ‘Aesthetic’ Names for Baby Boys and Girls

Strong and Unique ‘A’ Middle Names for Boys

76. Arnold — From Germanic elements meaning “eagle” and “power.” Its meaning gives this vintage choice an especially strong character.
77. Asa — A Hebrew biblical name commonly interpreted as “healer” or “physician.” Its short length makes it particularly adaptable as a middle name.
78. Asher — Hebrew in origin, it means “happy” or “blessed.” In the Bible, Asher was one of Jacob’s 12 sons.
79. Ashok — From the Sanskrit ashoka, meaning “without sorrow.” It is closely associated with Ashoka the Great, the third-century B.C. Mauryan emperor.
80. Aslan — A Turkish word meaning “lion.” English-speaking readers may also recognize it from C.S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia.
81. Ashwin — Sanskrit in origin, it is connected to the Ashvins, twin deities associated with horses, medicine and dawn in Hindu tradition. The root ashva means “horse.”
82. Aston — Originally an English place name and surname, it generally derives from Old English elements meaning “east” and “town” or “settlement.” Its surname-style sound gives it a modern feel.
83. Atlas — Drawn from Greek mythology, where Atlas was the Titan condemned to hold up the heavens. The name is traditionally connected with a Greek root meaning “to endure” or “bear.”
84. Atticus — Latin in origin, it means “from Attica,” the region surrounding Athens in Greece. It also became widely familiar through Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird.
85. Auden — Developed as an English surname from older personal-name elements commonly associated with “old friend.” It is also strongly associated with poet W.H. Auden.
86. August — From the Latin augustus, meaning “great,” “venerable” or “majestic.” It also became the name of the eighth month through Roman Emperor Augustus.
87. Aurelius — An ancient Roman family name derived from the Latin aureus, meaning “golden.” Roman emperor and philosopher Marcus Aurelius is its best-known historical bearer.
88. Avi — A Hebrew name meaning “my father.” Its short spelling and two-syllable pronunciation make it easy to pair with many first names.
89. Axel — The Scandinavian form of the biblical name Absalom, traditionally interpreted as “father of peace.” The modern spelling gives the ancient roots a sharper, more contemporary feel.
90. Azad — Persian in origin, it means “free” or “independent.” Variations of the word appear across several languages and cultures in South and Central Asia.
91. Azariah — A Hebrew biblical name meaning “Yahweh has helped.” Its four syllables work especially well with a shorter first name.
92. Aziz — Arabic in origin, it means “powerful,” “respected” or “beloved.” The underlying root carries associations with strength and preciousness.
93. Azriel — Hebrew in origin, it means “God is my help.” The name appears in the Hebrew Bible and offers a less common biblical option.
94. Abbott — Derived from an English surname and occupational title referring to the head of a monastery. The word ultimately traces back to the Aramaic abba, meaning “father.”
95. Adler — A German surname meaning “eagle.” Its direct animal association gives it a strong nature-inspired meaning.
96. Alvin — With Old English and Germanic roots, it is commonly associated with meanings such as “elf friend” or “noble friend.” It has been used as an English given name for centuries.
97. Alonzo — A form of the Spanish name Alfonso, it comes from Germanic elements generally associated with being “noble” and “ready.” Its three syllables give it a smooth rhythm in the middle position.
98. Anatole — From the Greek anatole, meaning “sunrise” or “east.” The meaning gives this uncommon name a subtle connection to beginnings and light.
99. Arrow — A modern English word name referring to the projectile used with a bow. Its direct meaning gives it a distinctive contemporary quality.
100. Arvid — A Scandinavian name derived from Old Norse elements meaning “eagle” and “tree” or “wood.” It has a long history of use in Sweden and other Nordic countries.

This article was drafted with the assistance of AI and thoroughly reviewed, edited and fact-checked by Parade editors. See our complete AI Policy.

Related: 350 Unique Baby Girl Names To Make Sure Your Daughter's Name Will Be Just as Special as She Is

When the Hollywood Sign went up in 1923, it didn’t say “Hollywood.” It said “Hollywoodland,” and it was only supposed to last about a year and a half.

The sign began as a $21,000 billboard for a housing development, built by Los Angeles Times publisher Harry Chandler and his partners, according to the Hollywood Sign Trust. Its letters stood about 50 feet tall, according to KCET, and by the end of the year it was lit by roughly 4,000 light bulbs, per Smithsonian Magazine. The Trust says it was “intended to last just 18 months.”

It stuck around anyway, though not in great shape. The sign quietly became city property in 1944, and in 1949 the letters “LAND” were removed and the “H” was rebuilt, according to the Los Angeles Conservancy.

By 1973, when the sign was named a city landmark, the top of the “D” and the entire third “O” had toppled down Mount Lee, and an arsonist had set fire to the bottom of the second “L,” per the Trust.

Something had to give. The rebuild cost $250,000, and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce found its money by getting celebrities to pay for letters. Hugh Hefner hosted a fundraiser at his home where the letters were auctioned off at about $27,700 each, according to the Hollywood Sign Trust’s account of the campaign.

Nine donors ended up footing the bill. Hefner took the “Y,” singer Andy Williams took the “W,” and Gene Autry and his TV station KTLA took one of the “L”s. Rock singer Alice Cooper bought an “O” in honor of comedian Groucho Marx.

The old sign was scrapped in August 1978, and Los Angeles went about three months without one. The replacement was built with steel and concrete and ran five feet shorter than the original for better stability, according to LAist.

Its debut was set to be a TV moment. The new sign was scheduled to be unveiled on the CBS special “Hollywood’s Diamond Jubilee” on Nov. 14, 1978, and the show’s producer, Pierre Cossette, was nervous about the weather. “We’ve set aside 12 minutes for it,” he told The Hollywood Reporter. “Can you imagine what would happen if the smog rolled in?”

The sign has been a screen regular ever since, enough for there to be a list of the Hollywood Sign appearances in movies. The billboard meant to last 18 months is still standing more than a century later, permanently becoming an iconic fixture on the Los Angeles landscape.

87 days ago, Big Brother 28 set out on a time trip. And what ensued over the next near-three months was, well, a trip! We saw three reality TV “icons” enter the game, both prevailing in dominance and fighting as underdogs. Alliances formed, then were blown apart with scathing blindsides. And there were many, many fights along the way. Now, only three remain: Rick Devens, Drew Campbell and Taylor Brown. Could Devens finally get the win he wanted so dearly on Survivor? Will first nominee Taylor become the last one standing? Or can middleman Drew get out of a hairy situation to win $750,000?

Check out our spoiler-filled recap of tonight’s finale below and find out who won, who finished runner-up and who won America’s Favorite Houseguest.

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Who won Big Brother 28? Rick Devens Rick Devens on ‘Big Brother 28’

Evan Mulling/CBS

Rick Devens walked into the Big Brother house a two-time Survivor loser, and walked out of it a winner! The former newscaster initially dominated the season, running the game alongside the other “icons” and planning every eviction along the way. At a certain point, however, he became the odds-on favorite to win, and the number one target in the game. But in those moments, he was able to pull out the clutch gene that had gotten him through 70 days on the island, winning a variety of necessary competitions to make his way to the Final Two. Facing his first-ever jury, Devens made the biggest betrayal of the season, choosing to cut Drew a week after he promised on live TV he’d take him to the Final Two. It was the last big move he’d make of the season, and the accumulation of them gave him the win, making his reality TV crossover a complete success.

Who came in second place on Big Brother 28? Taylor Brown Taylor Brown on ‘Big Brother 28’

Evan Mulling/CBS

When Taylor Brown was put up on the block mere days into the season, she knew she had to play a game of survival. Indeed, over the course of 87 days, she got put up a whopping six times. But, as she said in her final speech, “I’m still here.” She found a way to find a way, whether it was being able to remain under the radar, winning clutch competitions or, in the case of the finale, convincing Devens at the eleventh hour to evict Drew. Unfortunately, while Taylor was a sleeper pick going into the finale, she was not able to take home the win, leaving the game with a jury vote and a respectable $75,000 prize.

Who was eliminated on Big Brother 28 tonight? Drew Campbell Drew Campbell on ‘Big Brother 28’

Evan Mulling/CBS

Last week, Drew decided to evict Dee over Devens, figuring the latter would take him to the Final Two due to their tight relationship. Unfortunately, he soon discovered that, for all his loyalty to the icons, they didn’t have him in their Final Two plans. After Devens won the final HoH, he made the biggest betrayal of the season, cutting Drew just shy of the end.

Related: Julie Chen Moonves Reveals Which ‘Big Brother 28’ Players She Wants Back (Exclusive)

Who won America’s Favorite Houseguest for Big Brother 28? Rick Devens Rick Devens on ‘Big Brother 28’

Evan Mulling/CBS

The top three vote-getters were Devens, Drew and Yash. And, with almost 30% of the vote, Devens also took home the fan-favorite prize winner.

Stay tuned to find out who from this season was given the fan-favorite prize of “America’s Favorite Houseguest”!

Will Big Brother return for Season 29?

Yes! The casting website is currently open, meaning that Big Brother 29 is a go for next summer.

Related: Dee Valladares Reveals the Real Reason She Could Never Cut Devens on ‘Big Brother 28’ (Exclusive)

Big-batch cooking is a great way to get ahead, but it can create a new problem once dinner is over: a refrigerator filled with containers that may or may not get eaten before they spoil. Freezing leftovers helps, though large containers can be inconvenient when a recipe or lunch calls for only one serving.

A more useful method is to freeze food in amounts that match the way it will be used later. That can mean a single bowl of chili for lunch, a cup of sauce for pasta night or a small portion of broth to add depth to a skillet recipe. Having those portions ready can make homemade food feel much more convenient on a busy day.

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Souper Cubes Silicone Freezer Storage Tray 5-Pack, $69.99 at Costco

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Costco’s Souper Cubes Silicone Freezer Storage Tray 5-Pack is built to simplify that process. The set includes five lidded trays in three measured compartment sizes: two two-cup trays, two 1-cup trays and one smaller tray with half-cup sections.

The larger compartments can be useful for freezing individual meals such as chili, soup, curry or cooked shredded chicken. One-cup sections work well for prepared grains, sauce, beans or stock, while the smallest portions offer a practical place for pesto, pizza sauce, chopped herbs in oil or leftover canned ingredients.

Related: This Sleek Kitchen Essential Will Make Everyday Meal Prep Feel Like a Gourmet Meal

Measurement lines built into the trays show both cup and milliliter amounts, making it easier to portion food without pulling out extra measuring tools. The silicone construction is flexible, which can help when releasing frozen portions, and a reinforced rim adds stability while transferring filled trays from the counter to the freezer.

The trays are made with FDA food-grade silicone and are listed as free from BPA, lead, PVC and phthalates. They are dishwasher-safe and can be used in an oven up to 415 degrees; however, the accompanying lids are not oven-safe.

One simple strategy is to let a fresh pot of soup cool, fill the two-cup sections, cover the trays and freeze them flat. Once frozen, pop out each block, label it with the date and transfer the portions to a freezer bag. The empty trays can then be reused for the next meal-prep project.

Costco lists the five-pack under item No. 2050381. For cooks who want to make their freezer more organized, cut back on wasted leftovers and keep homemade meals within easy reach, this versatile set is a practical kitchen addition.

Related: This 40-Ounce Leakproof Tumbler Is Made for Mess-Free Hydration on the Go

If you’ve heard Olivia Dean‘s “I’ve Seen It” and thought of “Just the Two of Us,” the company behind Bill Withers‘ songs agrees with you.

Mattie Music Group, the publisher behind the late singer’s catalog, filed a copyright lawsuit in federal court in Los Angeles, according to a report Thursday. It claims Dean’s song copies a “distinctively protectable melody” from the 1981 classic.

The suit calls the similarities “obvious and inescapable.” A musicologist who reviewed both songs found “substantial similarities,” according to the complaint.

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Dean Isn’t the One Being Sued

The suit names Capitol Records, Universal Music Group and Dean’s publishing companies. It doesn’t seek damages from Dean or from her co-writers on the song, Bastian Langebaek and Max Wolfgang.

The publisher says it warned them about the song on Aug. 17. They kept distributing and licensing it anyway, without changing its credits, the suit claims. It asks for damages to be decided at trial.

Representatives for Universal and for Dean didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment, per the report.

Related: 1971 Soul Hit, Written by Bill Withers, Is One of the ‘Most Covered Songs of All Time’ 55 Years Later

The Song at the Center of It

“I’ve Seen It” is on The Art of Loving, Dean’s second album, which came out last year. The album’s hit singles include “Man I Need” and “So Easy (To Fall in Love).”

“Just the Two of Us” was a collaboration between Withers and saxophonist Grover Washington Jr. It won the Grammy for Best R&B Song in 1982 and was nominated for Record of the Year and Song of the Year, the Recording Academy notes.

Withers died in 2020 at 81.

Dean won Best New Artist at the Grammys in February. Withers was up for the same award in 1972.

Next: 1978 Hit by Legendary ’70s Band Is Back on Billboard’s Hot 100 for the First Time in 47 Years

Janis Joplin’s final recording, “Mercedes Benz,” began as an impromptu drinking-session jam involving a songwriter, two Hollywood actors, a future rock star, and a poet.

Huddled at Vahsen’s in Port Chester, New York, Joplin helped create the song at a bar table, then performed it about an hour later. The deeper story only gets more wonderfully and tragically cinematic from there.

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Janis Joplin Created ‘Mercedes Benz’ at a Port Chester Bar

On Aug. 8, 1970, Janis Joplin was in Port Chester, New York, before her show at the Capitol Theatre. She was with songwriter Bob Neuwirth and actors Rip Torn and Geraldine Page, whom Neuwirth had invited along. According to Music Radar, Patti Smith was also on site.

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After the band’s sound check, the group had a couple of hours to kill before the opening acts finished their sets, so they walked to Vahsen’s, a bar just a few minutes from the theater.

According to Neuwirth, Joplin began singing the opening line of a song by San Francisco Beat poet Michael McClure that she had heard years earlier. Torn and Page then began banging their beer glasses on the table to keep time. Then, Joplin and Neuwirth started improvising.

Joplin came up with the words for the first and second verses, while Neuwirth wrote them down on bar napkins with a ballpoint pen. He also suggested some words and wrote the third verse. The result was “Mercedes Benz,” a sardonic song about wanting a luxury car, a color TV, and a night on the town.

The song is officially credited to Joplin, Neuwirth, and McClure.

She Performed the Brand-New Song About an Hour Later

The group didn’t spend days polishing the song. In fact, Joplin barely had time to finish it before taking the stage.

Neuwirth recalled that Joplin’s road manager, John Byrne Cooke, arrived at Vahsen’s shortly before 9 p.m. to tell her she was due onstage in 15 minutes. The group hurried back to the Capitol Theatre, and Joplin surprised the audience by announcing that she had a new song.

“I just wrote this at the bar on the corner,” Joplin told the crowd. She then performed “Mercedes Benz” a cappella.

The Capitol Theatre itself confirmed that Joplin debuted the song during her Aug. 8 performance, describing it as a tune she wrote at Vahsen’s, just down the street from the theater.

Joplin Recorded It in One Take on Oct. 1

Nearly two months later, Joplin was in Los Angeles working on what would become her final album, Pearl. On Oct. 1, 1970, she returned to Sunset Sound and recorded “Mercedes Benz” without the Full Tilt Boogie Band.

The recording was captured in a single take, making the bare-bones performance one of the most striking moments on Pearl. The official Joplin site lists “Mercedes Benz” as the album’s eighth track.

Joplin had no idea that the session would be her last.

Three days later, on Oct. 4, 1970, she died at age 27 from an accidental heroin overdose. They found her at the Landmark Motor Hotel in Hollywood after she failed to show up for a scheduled recording session.

One Song on ‘Pearl’ Was Left Without Joplin’s Voice

The tragedy became even more apparent when Pearl was completed after Joplin’s death.

Joplin was scheduled to record the vocals for “Buried Alive in the Blues.” She had visited Sunset Sound on Oct. 3 to listen to the instrumental track, but she died before she could record her part the following day. The completed backing track was ultimately left on Pearl as an instrumental.

“Mercedes Benz,” meanwhile, became the final completed recording Joplin made.

Pearl was released posthumously on Jan. 11, 1971, and became the biggest-selling album of Joplin’s career. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and remained there for nine weeks.

The album also contained “Cry Baby,” “Move Over,” and Joplin’s posthumous No. 1 hit “Me and Bobby McGee.”

“Mercedes Benz” ultimately became one of Joplin’s most recognizable recordings: a song that began with friends banging beer glasses around a Port Chester bar table and ended up as the haunting final recording of one of rock’s most unforgettable voices.

Related: 1966 Crossover Classic, Written by Michael Nesmith, Became a Cross-Generational Hit

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If traffic, barking dogs, lawn equipment or neighborhood activity keeps getting through your windows, replacement windows may improve the situation. But “soundproof” is not a precise description of residential windows. The better question is how much sound a particular window assembly reduces, and which rating measures that performance.

Energy-efficient windows can also improve noise control. After all, multiple panes, tighter seals and insulating spaces reduce pathways for both sound and heat. However, energy efficiency and acoustic performance are measured separately.

For homeowners comparing replacement windows, STC and OITC ratings provide a more useful starting point than marketing terms such as “noise reducing” or “soundproof.” Here’s what you need to know.

Ready to block out unwanted neighborhood noise and restore peace to your home? Schedule a free consultation with Renewal by Andersen to explore custom glass configurations tailored to your specific acoustic and energy needs.

How Soundproof Are Energy-Efficient Windows?

Energy-efficient windows are not completely soundproof, but they can reduce outdoor noise. Double- and triple-pane glass, thicker or differently sized panes, laminated glass, tight seals and professional installation can all affect acoustic performance. For outdoor noise, compare OITC and STC.

What Does an STC Rating Mean?

STC stands for Sound Transmission Class. It is a rating used to classify how well a building element reduces airborne sound transmission. The rating is based on laboratory testing across a range of frequencies and is particularly relevant to speech and other midrange sounds. A higher STC rating means better sound insulation.

STC rating

General acoustic performance

Around 25–30

Common range for many standard dual-pane windows

30–35

Greater sound reduction

36–40

High sound-abatement performance

These ranges are useful for comparison, not a guarantee of what you will hear in a particular room. Andersen notes that typical dual-pane windows have STC ratings around 25–30, while windows in the 30–35 range provide increased sound abatement.

What Is OITC, and Why Does It Matter?

OITC stands for Outdoor-Indoor Transmission Class. Unlike STC, it is designed to better represent exterior noise entering a building.

That distinction matters if your main complaint is traffic, aircraft, construction or other outdoor noise. The National Glass Association explains that OITC covers a broader frequency range than STC, including lower frequencies associated with exterior noise. When comparing energy-efficient windows for a noisy location, ask the contractor for both STC and OITC ratings.

Which Window Features Reduce Outdoor Noise?

Glass construction has a major influence on sound transmission. Thicker glass, different pane thicknesses, laminated glass and wider insulating spaces can improve acoustic performance. Tight seals and proper installation also matter because sound can enter through gaps around the window.

Double-Pane vs. Triple-Pane Windows

Adding a second pane generally provides better sound control than an older single-pane window. Triple-pane construction adds another layer and insulating space, but it does not automatically provide the best acoustic performance.

The glass configuration matters as much as the number of panes. Andersen notes that dual-pane windows with thicker or dissimilar glass can outperform some triple-pane configurations for sound reduction.

Dissimilar Glass Thicknesses

Using panes of different thicknesses changes the frequencies at which the glass vibrates. That can make it harder for certain sounds to pass through the window assembly. So, don’t assume a window labeled “triple pane” will provide the greatest noise reduction. Ask for the tested STC and OITC ratings of the exact configuration being quoted.

Laminated Glass

Laminated glass contains an interlayer between two sheets of glass. That interlayer dampens vibration and can improve sound transmission performance. The National Glass Association identifies laminated glass as a way to increase damping and reduce sound transmission. Renewal by Andersen also lists laminated glass with a polyvinyl butyral, or PVB, interlayer as an available sound-abatement feature.

You don’t have to choose between lower energy bills and a quieter living space. Request a free quote from Renewal by Andersen today to find replacement windows engineered to maximize both thermal comfort and sound reduction.

Do Energy-Efficient Windows Also Keep Your Home Quieter?

Often, yes, but energy performance and acoustic performance should be evaluated separately. Low-E coatings, insulating gas and lower U-factors address heat transfer; STC and OITC address sound transmission. A window should be evaluated using the ratings relevant to both goals.

A window can therefore be highly energy efficient without offering exceptional noise reduction. A specialized acoustic glass package may improve sound control without being the most efficient configuration for a particular climate.

If outside noise is already affecting sleep, conversations or time spent at home, ask for a window consultation that addresses acoustic performance specifically—not just energy efficiency.

How Much Noise Can New Windows Actually Block?

There is no single STC rating that guarantees silence. Results depend on the window assembly, the frequency of the noise, installation quality and other parts of the building envelope. Higher acoustic ratings can reduce more transmitted sound, but they do not eliminate outdoor noise completely.

Renewal by Andersen highlights multi-pane glass, tight seals and professional installation as factors that contribute to noise reduction. The company also offers laminated glass as a sound-abatement option.

New Windows From Renewal by Andersen

Renewal by Andersen

Professional window replacement from Renewal by Andersen can help you save money on your utility bills.

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What Should You Ask a Window Contractor About Noise?

Ask which glass configuration provides the highest available STC and OITC ratings, whether laminated or dissimilar glass is available, and how the installation will address gaps around the existing opening. Then compare those specifications alongside U-factor and SHGC.

A useful list to take to your consultation:

Question

Why it matters

What is the exact STC rating?

Measures sound insulation

What is the OITC rating?

Better reflects many outdoor noises

Is laminated glass available?

Adds sound-damping capability

Are the glass panes different thicknesses?

Can improve acoustic performance

What are the U-factor and SHGC?

Measure energy performance

How is the window sealed and installed?

Gaps can undermine sound and thermal performance

Are Energy-Efficient Windows Worth Considering for a Noisy Home?

For homeowners dealing with both outdoor noise and poor thermal comfort, replacement windows can address both concerns when the product is specified for the job. Compare STC and OITC for noise, U-factor and SHGC for energy performance, and make installation quality part of the evaluation.

There is no universal “soundproof window.” The appropriate specification depends on the noise outside, the home’s existing windows and the level of reduction you want. A consultation can help identify those priorities before you choose the glass and window configuration.

Request a free quote from Renewal by Andersen to discuss energy-efficient windows designed around your home’s comfort and noise concerns.

If you’ve landed on this page, you’re more than likely heading to a restaurant soon and want to ensure you’ve perfected your dining etiquette so you can enjoy the best meal possible. Whether you’re dining solo, on a date, with family, out with friends or celebrating a special occasion, it’s important to be aware of any actions or restaurant behavior you may be engaging in that can actually come across as rude—and nobody wants that. 

“Table manners and dining etiquette [are] important because we want to make sure we are making a good impression on others,” says Arden Clise, an etiquette expert as well as the founder and President of Clise Etiquette. “And no one wants to eat with someone who eats like a pig or is more focused on the food than the company. Etiquette and politeness will never go out of style.” 

That said, Parade chatted with etiquette experts across the United States to learn more about how you can elevate your dining experience the next time you go to a restaurant. It’s worth noting that restaurant etiquette can vary by place, so it’s important to keep that in mind. But these seven habits or actions are generally deemed rude at restaurants. And if you do them, you might unintentionally be disrupting the staff and coming off as disrespectful to your dining companions. 

Related: An Etiquette Expert Is Begging People To Stop This Common Habit at Restaurants

The Unintentional Rude Habits You Might Be Doing at Restaurants

Even though you might mean well when you go out to eat at restaurants, there is a possibility that you are unintentionally doing some things that are frustrating to the restaurant staff and/or people you’re dining with. If you’ve ever stacked your plates, asked to split the bill at the last minute or placed a used knife on the table, you might want to keep reading.

Again, you might know the major don’ts like not chewing with your mouth open, not putting your elbows on the table and being polite to your server. But there are some sneaky habits that can come off as impolite.

So read on for several habits you can learn to recognize and tweak to make your future dining experiences even better. 

7 Common Restaurant Etiquette Mistakes, According to Etiquette Experts 1. Eating too fast or too slow

Diane Gottsman—etiquette expert and owner of The Protocol School of Texas—notes that many people make the mistake of not paying attention to the dining pace of the other people they are dining with. 

This is particularly important to pay attention to if you’re eating at a restaurant with a strict time limit per reservation, such as weekend brunch or a popular dining spot in town. You don’t want to exceed the time that you’ve agreed to when making the reservation. You also risk the restaurant asking you to leave. 

“You don’t want to be the first one to finish, and you don’t want to be the last one to finish,” she says. “So, if you are slow and making everybody wait, it really comes across as rude and annoying.” 

The same principle applies when a server asks if they can clear your plate. You should say no until the others around you are done, as they might feel rushed, feel pressure to go faster or say they are done while they are still in the middle of enjoying their meal. 

2. Not asking for a split bill at the beginning of the meal  

While it can generally be okay to split a bill at a restaurant, especially when dining with a large party, you want to ensure that you are not waiting until the end of the meal to inform your server about your table’s payment preferences. You don’t need to make this request the first words you say to your server, but Jodi RR Smith, an etiquette consultant as well as the President and owner of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting, notes this should be completed before placing your order. 

“For most payment systems, it is much easier to know in advance if the bill is to be divided,” she explains. “[Furthermore], the waitstaff should not need to become the financial referee for a table at the end of the meal.” 

Not only can not asking for a split bill at the beginning of the meal potentially blindside your server—putting them in a difficult spot if they’ve already processed the orders for your table into their system—it can also serve as a shock to the rest of your dining party, especially if not everyone is on board to pay evenly. After all, the last thing you want is to surprise your dining companions with a bill they did not expect when they intentionally ordered what was in their budget (unless agreed upon earlier). 

Related: Etiquette Experts Say These 8 Nonverbal Habits Make You Seem Rude Without Realizing It

3. Stacking plates 

Despite the fact that you may have good intentions when stacking plates for your server to take in an effort to be helpful, Clise notes that most servers will appreciate it when you refrain from doing so.

“Servers have a system for clearing dishes, and when you hand them your items, it can throw them off,” she shares. “It also takes away from the people you are dining with as you focus on cleaning up.” 

4. Putting your napkin on your plate 

You might not think much of putting your napkin on your plate (especially if it’s a fabric one) as you figure that it’s going to be cleaned anyway, but Clise notes that you should avoid doing this. 

“It may further soil the napkin and make it more work for the restaurant staff to get stains out,” she explains. “Placing your napkin on your plate would be like putting a cigarette out on your dish. It can be seen as careless and thoughtless.”

She also advises against folding your napkin too nicely, as it might confuse the restaurant staff, who might confuse it for being clean.

5. Placing used utensils on the table 

Similar to not placing your napkin on your plate, placing used utensils on the table can be perceived as rude (and potentially unsanitary). 

“Putting your used utensils on the table, especially when there is a tablecloth, is bad manners,” says Clise. “Putting used utensils on the table could require that the bus-people or waitstaff have to work harder to clean the table or the tablecloth.” 

6. Blowing your nose at the table 

Even though you might think blowing your nose at the table is permissible as long as you do so while covering your nose, you’d be wrong. Even though you might be tempted to use the napkin or tissue closest to you to clean your nose, it’s not polite. 

“The noise is quite unattractive, and the risk of your spittle or germs reaching your tablemates’ food is high,” says Smith. “Most importantly, a cloth napkin is never to be used as a tissue.” 

This is not meant to shame anyone who has to blow their nose, but more so to inform them that the proper etiquette and sanitary protocols advise visiting the restroom, so you can wash your hands and keep germs contained in the bathroom instead of at your table. 

7. Overemphasizing mishaps 

If you encounter a mishap with your food, such as a hair in it, Gottsman notes that it is bad etiquette to loudly point it out.

“If you find a hair in your food, do not point it out to all of the guests,” she states. “You know, just be very discreet. You don’t have to eat it, but be discreet about it because now you’ve ruined it for everybody else.” 

Related: Etiquette Experts Say These 12 Common Habits Make You Look Rude (Without Realizing It)

How To Handle Service Issues Without Being Rude

The good news is there are ways to respectfully handle service issues, such as letting your server know about undercooked food, any unwanted hairs, order mistakes or long waits while not embarrassing yourself or restaurant staff. 

For example, if you notice your food is undercooked, Clise notes that you can say, “Excuse me (server’s name), I ordered my steak medium rare, and this is well done. Would you mind bringing me a new steak cooked medium rare?”

If you’re hungry and it seems as though things are taking longer than they should, Gottsman recommends saying, “We realize the kitchen is busy today; is it possible to have a basket of rolls brought to the table while we wait?”

To be extra polite, she notes that you should refer to your server by their name when making any requests and addressing issues. 

Up Next:

Related: Asking This Type of Question Can Make You Seem ‘Unclassy’ When You First Meet Someone, Etiquette Expert Warns

Sources: 

• Arden Clise is an etiquette expert as well as the founder and President of Clise Etiquette.
• Diane Gottsman is an etiquette expert and the owner of The Protocol School of Texas.
• Jodi RR Smith is an etiquette consultant as well as the President and owner of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting.

ESPN reporter Holly Rowe became emotional while remembering one of the hardest periods of her life, revealing how a stage 4 cancer diagnosis changed the way she viewed her career, her appearance and the people who stood beside her.

Rowe opened up about her cancer journey during an interview with Candace Parker on Post Moves with Candace Parker & Aliyah Boston. The veteran sports broadcaster thanked Parker for supporting her during a time when she was dealing with metastatic cancer and struggling with the effects of treatment.

“I wanna say thank you to you because I was going through this really rough time in my life. People don’t know, I was going through this really bad battle. I had just found out I had stage 4 metastatic. I had now tumors in my lungs, and I was wearing a wig on TV and you pulled me aside. What did you tell me?”

Holly Rowe looks on during the 2026 AT&T WNBA All-Star Game on July 25, 2026 at United Center in Chicago, Illinois.

Photo by Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images

Parker recalled telling Rowe that she looked beautiful and encouraged her to be herself.

“I told you, I was like, Holly, your hair is beautiful. Like you look beautiful tonight. You should be you.”

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That moment led Rowe to remember how Parker and Nneka Ogwumike supported her when she was appearing on national television while undergoing a difficult period in her cancer battle.

“You and Nneka encouraged me to go on national TV with no wig on, you know, looking very sick. Your love meant a lot to me during that time and you and Becca were so good to me and like my people have had my back every step of the way, including one of the hardest times of my life when I didn’t know if I was gonna make it.”

Rowe became teary-eyed as she continued.

“Yeah, I went on TV bald because of you, Candace, so thank you, but you’ve always been there to support me and you’ve shown me a lot of love.”

Holly Rowe’s Stage 4 Cancer Journey

Rowe has previously spoken publicly about her battle with stage 4 metastatic skin cancer. She was diagnosed in 2015, shortly before the start of the college football season.

The cancer eventually spread to her lungs, where doctors found multiple inoperable tumors. During an October 2025 appearance at the Little Rock Touchdown Club, per Arkansas Money & Politics, Rowe described how difficult the diagnosis was and how she tried to keep working while receiving treatment.

Despite her cancer battle, Rowe did not miss an ESPN assignment because of her treatment. She said the only college football Saturday night she missed during that period was because she had COVID-19.

Rowe has also explained that sports became an important source of strength during her treatment. She kept a daily “joy journal,” writing down things that made her happy as she went through some of the most difficult moments of her life.

“What made me happy and kept me going was sports and going to these games,” she said. “I felt like I was living better when I was dying because everything else was washed away. All the little things…I didn’t care. My only focus was, ‘Get to the game, get to chemo and be with my son. I tried to find things every day that were fun.”

Her experience later inspired her to create the Joy+US Foundation, an organization focused on helping people facing cancer find moments of joy and support.

Rowe has described her recovery as something she did not take for granted.

“As for her latest cancer-free diagnosis, she said, “The universe and God had something planned. The universe blesses you when you are trying to help people be joyful. I want to try to teach all of us how to tap into your joy.”

Rowe’s story is also tied closely to her long career in sports broadcasting. She has been associated with ESPN since the 1990s and has become a familiar face covering college football, women’s college basketball, the WNBA and other major sporting events.

Rowe has also recently been at the center of a separate ESPN and Texas football story following an uncomfortable postgame interview with Texas coach Steve Sarkisian.

After Texas defeated Ohio State, Sarkisian cut short his postgame interaction with Rowe. An AI-generated video later circulated online showing a fake depiction of Sarkisian striking Rowe. 

Texas quarterback Arch Manning was criticized after joking about the video during a press conference and later apologized directly to Rowe, per CBS Sports.

“I saw the AI Edit of (Sark) slapping Holly Rowe.”

I asked Arch Manning if he’d seen any edits on TikTok or Twitter after the game, and his answer is gold. pic.twitter.com/70FnNCVEHb

— Evan Vieth (@EvanVieth) September 14, 2026

Sarkisian also addressed the incident and said he had a long-standing relationship with Rowe, adding that he could have handled the postgame interview with more patience.

For Rowe, however, her conversation with Parker returned to something much more personal: the people who supported her when she was unsure what the future would bring.

Related: Sports Television Visionary Behind The Creation of ESPN Dies at 93

Theo Carver is going to look a little different next week on the Peacock streaming soap opera Days of Our Lives, as TV Insider has revealed the beloved legacy role is being recast.

According to TV Insider, former General Hospital star Tajh Bellow will be taking on the role of Abe Carver (James Reynolds)’s son next week for one episode, on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, as actor Tyler Joseph Andrews was unable to film that day. Bellow is expected to share scenes opposite Cherie Jimenez, who plays Gabi Hernandez on the soap opera.

Bellow actually filmed his appearance on Days of our Lives last December, but due to the advanced filming schedule, the episode was held off from broadcasting until now.

In addition to his appearance on Days of Our Lives, as Parade previously reported, the actor will reunite with Love Island USA Season 6 star JaNa Craig and former The Young and the Restless star Loren Lott on the upcoming microdrama vertical The Compatibility Experiment.

As previously mentioned below, Bellow starred for years on the ABC soap opera General Hospital, where he played TJ Ashford from November 2018 through February 14, 2025, when the character faded into the background of Port Charles.

TJ’s last major story saw the character navigating the loss of his daughter after the surrogate, his sister-in-law Kristina Corinthos, lost the child following an accidental fall out the window of the Metro Court Hotel. This loss impacted his relationship with Molly Lansing-Davis (Kristen Vaganos).

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Prior to General Hospital, Bellow began his professional acting career in 2008 with an appearance in the films Don’t Touch If You Ain’t Prayed 2, The Man Who Came Back, and Role Models.

For his work on General Hospital Bellow was nominated for two Daytime Emmy awards. First in 2021 for Outstanding Younger Performer in a Drama Series, then in 2025 for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.

New episodes of Days of our Lives stream exclusively on Peacock weekdays.

In 1979, Atlanta Rhythm Section released a dreamy soft rock song about a woman who always keeps her admirer guessing.

More than four decades later, “Spooky” has also found an unlikely second life as a Halloween favorite.

Despite the title, “Spooky” isn’t really a Halloween song at all. There are no monsters, witches or haunted houses. Instead, it’s about an alluring, unpredictable woman whose mixed signals have the narrator completely under her spell.

There is, however, one perfectly placed nod to the holiday near the end of the song, when the lovestruck narrator decides that if his mysterious woman ever stops playing games, he’ll finally tell her how he feels and propose on Halloween.

Combined with the song’s title, eerie atmosphere and unforgettable “spooky little girl” refrain, that was apparently enough to give the sultry love song a permanent place in spooky-season playlists.

But Atlanta Rhythm Section’s 1979 hit has an unusual history that goes back more than a decade before the band recorded it—”Spooky” didn’t even have lyrics when it was first recorded.

The song began as an instrumental written by Mike Shapiro and Harry Middlebrooks Jr. and recorded by saxophonist Shapiro under the name Mike Sharpe. His version reached No. 57 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1967.

Later that year, guitarist J.R. Cobb and producer Buddy Buie added lyrics to the instrumental for the group Classics IV, transforming it into the mysterious love song listeners know today.

With Dennis Yost on lead vocals, Classics IV took “Spooky” all the way to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1968.

That could have been the end of the story. Instead, some of the musicians behind that hit eventually became part of another band.

Atlanta Rhythm Section formed in the early 1970s around a collection of experienced studio musicians in Doraville, Ga. Several had connections to Classics IV and The Candymen, a group that had backed Roy Orbison.

“The Rolling Stone Encyclopedia of Rock & Roll” described Atlanta Rhythm Section as former session musicians who “smoothed out Southern rock’s rough edges with studio sophistication.”

That description fits the band’s polished sound, which helped distinguish ARS from some of the harder-edged Southern rock groups of the era.

By the late 1970s, Atlanta Rhythm Section had found significant success of its own. “So in to You” reached No. 7 in 1977, followed by another No. 7 hit, “Imaginary Lover,” in 1978.

Then the band looked backward.

Cobb and keyboardist Dean Daughtry, who had both been connected to Classics IV, were now members of Atlanta Rhythm Section. Buie, who had produced the earlier vocal version of “Spooky,” was also ARS’s longtime producer.

In other words, when Atlanta Rhythm Section recorded “Spooky,” they weren’t simply covering somebody else’s old hit. Members of the band’s own musical family had helped turn it into a hit the first time around.

ARS recorded a new version for its 1979 album Underdog, this time with Ronnie Hammond singing lead. The remake became a hit all over again.

Released as a single in 1979, Atlanta Rhythm Section’s “Spooky” reached No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“The Rolling Stone Encyclopedia of Rock & Roll” includes “Spooky” among the string of hit singles that established the band in the late 1970s, alongside “So in to You,” “Imaginary Lover,” “I’m Not Gonna Let It Bother Me Tonight” and “Do It or Die.”

The success of “Spooky” was particularly unusual because the song had now become a major pop hit twice, 11 years apart, with some of the same people involved behind the scenes.

And the song didn’t stop there.

Dusty Springfield also recorded a gender-flipped version of “Spooky,” singing about a mysterious man rather than a “spooky little girl.” Over the decades, numerous other artists have put their own spin on the song.

But Atlanta Rhythm Section’s laid-back 1979 recording remains one of its most enduring versions. It also happens to fit remarkably well once October rolls around.

For a song that wasn’t really written about Halloween in the first place, “Spooky” couldn’t have picked a better name.

Related: 1970 Hit, Written in 40 Minutes About a Magical Girl, Became a Timeless Classic