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Jimmy Donaldson, known to millions as MrBeast, is bringing his digital empire straight to the concrete aisles of Lowe’s. Starting May 30, the home improvement giant is launching a monthly event series called the MyLowe’s Rewards Kids Club workshops. It is a day camp designed to get eight-year-olds hooked on hammers.

For $14.98, parents can ditch the iPads and enroll their kids in a monthly building gauntlet. The workshops feature rare MrBeast Lab Swarms collectibles that fans can only get by sitting at a Lowe's workbench. These are laser-cut toy kits linked to the massive Swarms universe, complete with physical badges kids can pin to their workshop aprons.

The monthly drops are timed like hypebeast sneaker releases. On May 30, it’s the Swarm Launcher, a mini cannonball setup built for distance. June 27 brings the Swarm Spinner, which is a working Ferris wheel. By July 25, kids will be building the Swarm Jet, an aircraft with paintable wings.

Lowe's research claims 87% of Gen Alpha parents hope to improve connection with their kids through DIY bonding while creating lifelong memories. Lowe’s aims to turn that parental desire into weekend workshops.

MrBeast and the new Swarms, available at Lowe's. (Photo: Lowe's)

Lowe's

"As a parent, you're always looking for those moments that bring your kids closer, especially during the summer when routines shift and time together matters more than ever," Jen Wilson, Lowe's senior vice president and chief marketing officer said. "What makes this partnership with MrBeast so powerful is that we're taking something kids already love and bringing it into the real world through hands-on building experiences. By integrating the MrBeast universe into Kids Club, we're able to connect with the next generation in a way that feels relevant, engaging and uniquely Lowe's — turning digital fandom into something families can actually build together."

MrBeast wants kids to discover the appeal of making something with their hands. "I have been obsessed with building things since I was a kid — it started with Lego forts and lately it's building businesses and crazy large-scale sets for our videos," he says. "I'm psyched about the Kids Club partnership with Lowe's because we're giving kids more access to being creative and seeing their own projects come to life."

Lowe’s originally partnered with Donaldson back in June 2025, signing on as the official building partner for season two of his Beast Games reality series. But while that show deals in stadium-sized spectacles, this new initiative brings that same energy down to the size of a suburban workbench.

Registration is live. To sign up, log into the Lowe’s mobile app, create a kids' profile, and buy the kit ahead of time.

Even in death, Michael Jackson continues to make history.

Just a few weeks ahead of the 17th anniversary of his death, the late music icon reached a major new music milestone, becoming Spotify's Top Global Artist for the week of May 8 through May 14. It marks the King of Pop's first time ever holding the title.

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The impressive new feat comes in the midst of surging streams for the late hitmaker, largely sparked by Michael, the new blockbuster biographical drama about Jackson's life. Since the film's release last month, some of Jackson's biggest hits from decades ago have re-entered the music charts, with "Billie Jean" recently soaring to No. 1 on the Billboard Global 200, becoming the biggest song in the world this week, more than 43 years after its release.

Michael also leads box office sales, grossing over $283 million going into its fourth week of release, per IMDB. This week's standings make Jackson the first artist of the year to have the number one song and movie at the same time.

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The dramatic resurgence sparked by the new biopic also helped the late legend earn the No. 1 spot on Billboard's Artist 100 as of Monday, May 18. Jackson is only the sixth artist to ever reach the top of that chart posthumously, and he is only the second artist of the entire decade to do so (along with Pop Smoke, who was No. 1 in 2020.) Other artists who have topped the Artist 100 posthumously include David Bowie (2016) Prince (2016), XXXTentacion (2018) and Juice WRLD (2019).

Additionally, more songs from Jackson's catalog have also seen significant surges, including "Human Nature," which was ranked No. 29 on the Billboard Hot 100 for the week dated May 16, along with "Beat It" at No. 32 and "Don’t Stop 'Til You Get Enough" at No. 42.

Related: 1979 Classic-Rock Party Anthem Made a Major Comeback 40 Years Later Thanks to a Blockbuster Film

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Few things are as frustrating in the kitchen as sawing away at a tomato with a dull knife. But scoring a quality set of sharp knives often means forking over a small fortune unless you catch a deal like this. Amazon is currently offering the Astercook 15-Piece Knife Set for just $40. 

That’s 33% off its usual $60 price. Judging by the impressive 4.8-star rating, home cooks are loving it, so it's the perfect time to save big while the price is hot!

Astercook 15-Piece Knife Set, From $40 (was $60) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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This knife set covers every cooking scenario you'll run into, from the sturdy chef's knife for dicing onions to the bread knife and steak knives. Another big perk is the built-in sharpener. It's one of those little details that make life easier, and you can have your favorite knife back in action with just a few swipes. Whether you're preparing for a big holiday meal or just throwing together a quick salad, you'll notice the difference.

Reviewers were quick to mention how "pretty" and "sleek" these durable knives were straight out of the box. One customer wrote, "These are the sharpest knives I've owned so far. They're super lightweight and easy to clean."

"Excellent knife set, and it includes a sharpener," another shopper wrote. "Very sharp blades, and cleans up nicely."

Related: Amazon's 'Attractive' Laundry Hamper Set Is Now 40% Off, and You Can Shop It in 7 Stylish Colors

These knives are well-balanced and feel sturdy in your hand, making chopping and slicing feel less like a chore. With six steak knives included, you'll be ready for dinner parties or backyard barbecues without needing extra utensils.

With over 10,000 sets bought in the past month, it's clear the Astercook set has found a home in kitchens everywhere. People have even come back to buy a second set as a present for friends or new homeowners.

"We buy these knife sets as wedding gifts," a reviewer shared, adding that they're "well-made" and "useful."

Shop More Deals

• Astercook 21-Piece Pots and Pans Set, $60 (was $100) at Amazon
• Astercook 39-Piece Silicone Kitchen Tools Set, $22 (was $33) at Amazon
• Nula 8-Piece Knife Set, $25 (was $30) at Amazon

If you've been making do with a mismatched drawer of dull knives, this is your moment to make the upgrade. For $40, you can transform your cooking experience and maybe even look forward to meal prep, so grab the Astercook 15-Piece Knife Set on Amazon while it's on sale.

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In 1984, The Smiths released Hatful of Hollow, a compilation of singles, B-sides and BBC Radio sessions that would eventually become one of the most beloved albums of the band’s career. More than 40 years later, the record has just been named the greatest B-side album of all time.

B-side albums typically collect songs that were never included on an artist’s main studio albums, often gathering together non-album singles, rarities, demos, radio sessions and tracks originally released on the flip side of vinyl records.

BBC Music Magazine just released a new ranking that put the 1984 compilation No. 1 on its list of the 15 greatest B-side albums of all time, placing it ahead of collections from artists including Prince, Oasis, Nirvana, Tom Waits and The Beatles.

For many fans, Hatful of Hollow has long felt like much more than a simple compilation album.

The record gathered together radio sessions, standalone singles and B-sides recorded during the band’s explosive early years and featured songs that would eventually become some of the most beloved tracks in The Smiths’ catalog, including “How Soon Is Now?,” “Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want,” “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” and “This Charming Man.”

BBC Music Magazine argued that the collection may actually represent the band at its very best.

“For many fans, Hatful Of Hollow–a collection of radio sessions, singles and B-sides–is their greatest album,” the magazine wrote.

The publication specifically praised the album’s raw live-session energy, highlighting songs like “What Difference Does It Make,” “Still Ill” and “Girl Afraid,” while calling B-sides “How Soon Is Now?” and “Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want” the compilation’s “crowning glories.”

Released in November 1984, Hatful of Hollow arrived during a remarkably productive stretch for The Smiths. Rather than simply recycling leftovers, the album showcased how strong the band’s non-album material had become during its rise in the British indie scene.

Many of the songs originated from BBC Radio 1 sessions recorded for legendary DJs John Peel and David Jensen, and fans often preferred those looser, more urgent performances to the studio versions released elsewhere.

The compilation also included the original single version of “Hand in Glove” alongside standalone tracks and B-sides that had become increasingly difficult for fans to find.

Over time, the album developed a reputation as one of the definitive documents of The Smiths’ early sound.

NME later included Hatful of Hollow on its list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, with writer Nicky Wire arguing that the collection had a depth missing even from some of the band’s studio albums.

“That was the album when The Smiths really nailed it for me,” Wire wrote. “The rest of their albums are not brilliantly produced and even The Queen Is Dead doesn’t have the depth of Hatful of Hollow.”

The album reached No. 7 on the UK Albums Chart and remained on the charts for 46 weeks, eventually earning platinum certification in the United Kingdom.

More than 40 years later, Hatful of Hollow continues to occupy a unique place in The Smiths’ legacy, functioning both as an introduction to the band and, for many longtime fans, its most emotionally complete release.

Related: 1979 Rock Classic Named No. 1 Greatest Guitar Solo of All Time

If you’ve ever heard of Stoicism, you’ve probably heard of Seneca, also known as Seneca the Younger. According to the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, this school of thought was founded hundreds of years before him, in 300 BCE, by Zeno of Citium. Even so, Stoicism still had a major influence on Seneca, a Roman philosopher, orator, statesman and tragedian, per Britannica. He was born circa 4 BCE in what is now Córdoba, Spain, and became the “leading intellectual figure in the mid-1st century CE.” With his Stoic beliefs and many written words left to history, our quote of the dayfrom Seneca really hits home at how he saw the human mind: resilient.

Stoicism was “one of the dominant philosophical systems of the Hellenistic period,” per the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. Yale University Press described Stoicism as a “historically deep tradition that claimed it had the resources to address the problems of human life.” Basically, in simple terms, Stoics were big on the fact that a lot of things were out of our control—including death—and that humans should accept that dead-on (pun intended). 

Seneca learned about rhetoric and philosophy in Greece, but then was exiled to the island of Corsica in 41 CE, because he fell out of favor with the emperor Caligula and then the emperor Claudius. However, he was asked back in 49 CE to tutor Nero, and he then became one of his advisors once Nero became emperor in 54 CE. Even though Seneca stepped away from that position later, he was still executed by forced suicide in 65 CE because of an alleged part in a conspiracy to assassinate Nero, which is still up for debate today. Regardless, he lived out his Stoic principles by dying with such immense composure that the scene inspired many paintings.

So, with that said, Seneca’s quote for today is all about the “power of the mind” and how unyielding it can be.

Related: Psychiatrist Alfred Adler on the 'Meanings We Give to Situations’ and Choosing Our Own Paths

Quote of the Day by Seneca

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“It is the power of the mind to be unconquerable.”

Seneca’s quote is often attributed to a letter of his from the book The Stoic Philosophy of Seneca: Essays and Letters, which was published in 1958. However, he talks about “unconquerable spirit” more in Letters on Ethics, which came out in 2015 and was translated by Margaret Graver and A.A. Long.

This book is known as “the complete works of Lucius Annaeus Seneca,” Seneca’s full name. He writes in a few letters about humans’ “unconquerable spirit” or mind. But in letter 71, titled “Life’s highest good,” from Seneca to Lucilius, he writes about “the sage” versus “the rest of humankind.” He says that you can’t separate him from other people just because he’s a “sage”; he can still feel pain and has two minds: an irrational one and a rational one. The latter is the one that “holds unshakable opinions, and that is fearless and unconquerable.” 

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

Deeper Meaning of Seneca’s Quote—The ‘Unconquerable’ Power of the Mind

“It is the power of the mind to be unconquerable,” is a really good encapsulation of Seneca's Stoicism. If Stoics believed that what will be, will be, they then had to train their minds to be okay with not having control. They had to become resilient to the outside world—always crazy, always throwing something new their way, as it does with all of us—and create an “unconquerable” mind. So in that vein, this is most likely something Seneca believed. 

Related: 13 Subtle Signs of a Mentally Tough Woman, According to Psychologists

In today’s day and age, Stoicism isn’t as practiced or at least not in the way the Stoics of Seneca’s time did. Yet, a lot of people still would agree with this quote and the notion that you need to face things head-on because the world isn’t going to stop and cater to you. So you just need to roll with the punches and gain the serenity and resilience you need to deal with what life throws at you. 

And you don’t have to be a Stoic to live out this quote either. If you believe in yourself and believe that you have an invincible and powerful mind, you’re bound to be better equipped to handle challenges. Sure, you need to be realistic. But it’s amazing what confidence can do to your mindset.

Related: Quote of the Day: At 93, Willie Nelson Proves Blessings Add Up

More Quotes from Seneca

• “We suffer more in imagination than in reality.”
• “All cruelty springs from weakness.”
• “You act like mortals in all that you fear, and like immortals in all that you desire.”
• “If you really want to escape the things that harass you, what you’re needing is not to be in a different place but to be a different person.”
• “It is not that we have so little time but that we lose so much. ... The life we receive is not short but we make it so; we are not ill provided but use what we have wastefully.”
• “It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare; it is because we do not dare that things are difficult.”

Up Next:

Related: Writer Mary Renault on How Hate Can Consume Us Like Love: 'What We Loathe, We Graft Into Our Very Soul'

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The best kind of pants are the ones you can wear to sleep, the grocery store, and random errands without feeling like you look like you just rolled out of bed — even if you did. It’s even better when they’re on sale for just $10, which is exactly the case with the Sunbs Joggers at Walmart right now, which were originally $36. They come in four colors: black, grey, black-grey, and brown, and they’re available in sizes small to 2XL.

The joggers are made from 82% polyester and 19% cotton. They have a relaxed fit, cargo-inspired pant style, elastic bottom openings, and an adjustable drawstring waistband with metal tips. The pants also have two side pockets that can hold smaller items, such as a phone or wallet. The cinched ankles also give them more shape than traditional sweatpants, which is always a perk if you want to show off your shoes rather than cover them up with wide-leg pants.

Sunbs Joggers, $10 (was $36) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Since they have a baggier silhouette, they’d work especially well with a cropped or fitted tee, denim jacket, and sneakers. Or if you prefer a more oversized look, you could opt for a hoodie or an oversized crewneck. And because the joggers come in four neutral colors, you could pair them with practically any colored top, and the outfit would still look thoughtfully styled.

One shopper wrote, “These sweatpants are super soft and just the right amount of thickness.” Another said, “You can wear them all year,” adding that they’re “very comfortable and the pockets are large,” while a third noted, “These sweats are super cute! They are so comfy.” 

Related: Walmart Has the 'Perfect Linen Shirt' on Sale for Just $5, and It Comes in 25 Colors

They would be super easy to pack for a weekend away, especially if you want something for the car, the airport, or hanging around wherever you’re staying. They’re also great for work-from-home days when you still need to leave the house at some point. And since they’re just $10, they’re affordable enough to grab in multiple colors.

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If your current sweatpants are stretched out, too thick, or not something you’d wear beyond the house, the Sunbs Joggers are the perfect solution for year-round wear — especially at this low price. Be sure to snag yours now while all four colors are still available and marked down to just $10 at Walmart.

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Renowned photographer and filmmaker David McClister got Taylor Swift fans all worked up last week when he shared the beginnings of a sweet memory from his first time shooting for her—and left them "waiting with bated breath" for part 2.

The Nashville-based artist took to his social media recently to detail the unexpected gig he secured back when the global superstar was opening for Tim McGraw, recalling how Rolling Stone called him the morning she was set to perform with the "Live Like You Were Dying" singer to check his availability for a last-minute assignment.

There was "a catch" to the job, though, as McClister only shot on film, and the publication needed the photos to be done digitally for an overnight turnaround.

He "confidently" said it was "no problem," but he didn't own a digital camera, and there was nowhere local to rent one.

Luckily, he had a photographer friend in the area who was more than happy to let him borrow one, and even took the time to run him through "the essential settings."

When he finally "work[ed his] way through the caverns of the big arena downtown" and made it to the opener's dressing room, "she immediately came over and introduced herself."

Swift didn't even give him a chance to respond, quickly launching into a series of questions about McClister's work. "She began by asking me about a specific scene from a music video I had recently done for Leann Rimes - exclusively for the European market and not released here in the states." He described it as "a lush video, beautifully shot," with Swift wanting to find out more about the way they obtained the color palette through filters.

She also called back to other photos that McClister had published on his website, asking more intricate details about them, too—all before the photographer "could even ask, 'how are you?'"

Fans were eager to hear more about how the two collaborated together, but McClister left them on a cliffhanger, promising, "To be continued," though he has yet to detail the rest of their meeting.

"David! I love everything about this story. Waiting with bated breath…" one commenter urged him to continue, while another agreed, "This is very important. Sat for the rest🫶🏻🫡."

"Anxiously awaiting part two…." a third emphasized, as a fourth quipped, "Ok we are listening…"

Fans also applauded how "Taylor always did her homework," which one considered to be "her most endearing quality."

"Even now she makes the effort to show genuine interest in people despite the fact that she must meet gazillions of them," they added. "And I don’t think it’s any kind of PR thing, I think it’s just how she is."

Hopefully, McClister will return with the rest of his story soon.

Related: Fans Say Taylor Swift Was 'Possessed' by an Old Era in 'Gorgeous' New Date Night Look

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A delicate necklace that adds a touch of polish to any outfit is a jewelry staple you’ll wear again and again. It can take you from a coffee run to an evening out without skipping a beat. The Adornia Mother of Pearl Station Necklace delivers that kind of versatility, combining subtle shine, timeless style, and everyday wearability into one easy-to-wear piece — and right now, it’s on sale for up to 79% off.

Discounted to between $30 and $32 depending on the color, this necklace is an easy way to refresh your accessory collection without breaking the bank. Featuring luminous mother of pearl stations along a dainty chain, it’s understated yet luxe, making it perfect for layering with other necklaces or wearing solo. Its design could work with everything from casual tees to dressier tops.

Adornia Mother of Pearl Station Necklace, From $30 (was $145) at Nordstrom Rack Shop at Nordstrom Rack

This necklace features either white or black mother of pearl clover-shaped stations set along a gold-plated chain. Its soft, luminous finish makes it easy to pair with anything from casual tees to more sophisticated outfits. One shopper said it “feels so glamorous,” while another added that it “looks far more expensive than it is,” making it a smart pick for anyone who wants a luxe look without the high tag.

Lightweight and comfortable, the dainty chain ensures it can be layered or worn solo. The mother of pearl catches the light subtly, adding a gentle sparkle that works just as well for daytime wear as it does for evening events.

Adornia Mother of Pearl Station Necklace, From $30 (was $145) at Nordstrom Rack Shop at Nordstrom Rack

For those who prefer cooler tones, there's also a timeless silver design with a sleek finish. The silver-plated chain pairs beautifully with the iridescent mother of pearl, making it easy to layer with other silver jewelry or wear alone for a refined, minimal look.

One shopper called it “a gorgeous everyday necklace that feels special without being flashy,” highlighting its perfect balance of elegance and versatility. Others described it as "dainty" and said that it makes a "lovely gift" for jewelry lovers.

Related: Nordstrom Rack Has a 'Beautiful' and 'Stackable' Swarovski Crystal Ring Set on Sale for Just $30

At up to 79% off, this necklace offers incredible value while updating your jewelry collection with a piece that will never go out of style. To keep it looking its best, gently wipe the chain with a soft cloth and store separately to prevent scratches or tangles.

Whether you’re treating yourself or shopping for a gift, Adornia Mother of Pearl Station Necklace effortlessly adds polish to any outfit and transitions from daytime to evening with ease — all while coming in at a fraction of the original price.

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

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

You can have the perfect lounge setup filled with cozy benches, chairs, and a table for outdoor meals. You can have a grill going with your favorite recipes, plus a mix of lush plants and soft lighting to set the mood. You can even have every detail dialed in just right, from rugs to citronella candles. But if you pause for a moment and all you hear is silence — or worse, the distant sound of cars rushing by — it can still feel like something’s missing.

That’s because wildlife is what really brings an outdoor space to life. The flutter of wings, the soft chirping in the background — local wildlife is what makes being outside feel special in the first place. If you’re looking for a way to invite those moments in, this best-seller at Walmart is a great place to start. Right now, the Phancir Hanging Bird Feeder is just $14, marked down from $27. For 48% less, you can completely change the feel of your backyard and make it a spot where feathered friends stop and stay awhile. 

Phancir Hanging Bird Feeder, $14 (was $27) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Designed with both function and visibility in mind, this hanging feeder features a clear hexagon-shaped body paired with an evergreen, brick-textured lid for a sweet house-like look. The transparent sides make it easy to keep an eye on seed levels, while also giving you a front-row seat to all the action as birds stop by throughout the day. 

Along the base, a full wraparound perch ledge allows multiple birds to land and feed at once, turning the feeder into a lively little gathering spot. Measuring about 8.7 inches long, 7.6 inches wide, and 7.8 inches tall, it holds up to 2.2 pounds of seed — plenty of space to add a mix that can attract a variety of birds, from finches and bluebirds to chickadees and starlings, without constant refills.

It’s also designed to be low-maintenance. Instead of unscrewing parts, the lid opens with a simple “push” mechanism, making it quick and easy to refill with wild bird seed, sunflower seeds, or safflower blends. Once filled, you can hang it under the eaves of your home or out in the garden. Its wide top shields seeds from rain, and built-in drainage holes keep food dry. Made from durable, high-quality plastic, it’s both waterproof and squirrel-resistant, with a secure latch that keeps everything in place. When it’s time to clean, the wide opening and retractable design make it easy to access the interior.

Related: Walmart’s 'Pretty' $27 Solar Lantern Bird Bath Brings Light and Wildlife to Your Backyard

Shoppers had plenty of praise for this “very sturdy,” “easy to fill and clean” feeder, with many noting how quickly it brought more activity to their yards. One shopper called it “a great little feeder,” adding that “the perch is such that it's an exclusive fit for little ones and [there ’s] no way a squirrel or other rodent could balance and rob the food.”

Shop More Deals

• Vibrant Life Hanging Hopper Bird Feeder, from $7 at Walmart
• Ratfeit Hanging Bird Feeder, $14 at Walmart
• Pennington Earth Smart Hopper Wild Bird Feeder, from $7 (was $11) at Walmart

At under $15, the Phancir Hanging Bird Feeder is a small upgrade that makes a big difference in how your outdoor space feels. Get it now for 48% off at Walmart!

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.

Some of today's NYT Connections Sports puzzle answers have to do with the leaders of a team. Get excited—there's another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you're looking for some hints and answers for today's Connections Sports Edition on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Tuesday, May 19, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

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

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

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

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

Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on May 19, 2026

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

• Yellow: In charge.
• Green: College sports division player.
• Blue: Signal callers with the same first name.
• Purple: Not down.

Here Are Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories

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

• Yellow: HEADS OF AN ORGANIZATION
• Green: AN SEC ATHLETE
• Blue: QB DREWS
• Purple: _____UP

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

The answers to today's Connections Sports Edition #603 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• HEADS OF AN ORGANIZATION: BRASS, LEADERSHIP, MANAGEMENT, TEAM OFFICIALS
• AN SEC ATHLETE: AGGIE, GAMECOCK, SOONER, VOLUNTEER
• QB DREWS: ALLAR, BLEDSOE, BREES, LOCK
• _____UP: CHANGE, TUNE, WARM, WIND

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

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

Related: NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Monday, May 18, 2026

It's "A Matter of Time" Air Supply adds more shows.

On Monday, two days before they kick off their A Matter of TimeTour in Lima, Australian rock duo Air Supply added six more stops in their world tour — five nights at Blue Night Hawaii in Honolulu from August 11 to 16, and a stop in Malaysia's Sibu Indoor Stadium on October 28.

"Just a few more dates of our 50th Anniversary Tour before the 'A Matter of Time' Tour officially begins 🥳," Air Supply posted on Instagram. "See the shows we've just announced below and stay tuned for more performances coming soon!"

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The lineup of concerts that were planned to celebrate the group's 50th anniversary is set to kick off on Tuesday evening in Lima, Peru, and then kick off in North America at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort during Memorial Day Weekend. The official start of the A Matter of Time Tour will open on May 28 in Schenectady, New York, and will conclude in Orlando on November 19. In between, Air Supply will be making stops in various cities in California, North Carolina, Illinois, Indiana and more.

Formed by Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock in Melbourne in 1975, Air Supply has sold over 100 million records worldwide and has over 80 songs that have hit the Billboard Hot 100. Their highest charting studio album was The One That You Love, which reached No. 10 in both Australia and the United States during its release in 1981.

In the late 1970s, Air Supply moved to Los Angeles, and since their formation, they have released 18 studio albums. A Matter of Time is their most recent record, which was released this year, and they are expected to perform a lot of their newer and older hits at these shows.

Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock of Air Supply perform during a concert at Arena Monterrey on February 26, 2026 in Mexico City, Mexico.

Medios y Media/Getty Images

Last fall, Air Supply embarked on their Lost in Love 50th Anniversary Tour, where they performed in huge venues around North America. Though it seems the rock duo is constantly on the road, they still "can't wait to hit the stage every night," according to The California Post.

"Every night, people ask, 'Don't you get tired of playing these songs after 50 years?' And I don't," Russell said. "They're great songs and every show is different because the audience is different."

A Matter of Time and the supporting tour were announced by the group back in February. The album was the first record they released filled with new music since Mumbo Jumbo in 2010.

Tickets for Air Supply's upcoming tour can be found on the duo's official website.

Related: '80s Rockers Make First-Ever Album Announcement Amid 50th Anniversary Tour

Everyone secretly loves star-crossed lovers, or a "Will they or won't they?" dynamic. The undeniable push and pull and uncertainty does have a certain level of draw to it. Which is likely why viewers and lovers of Shondaland'sScandal have always had eyes for Olivia Pope and Fitzgerald Grant, played by Kerry Washington and Tony Goldwyn, respectively. The fictional pairing is so beloved they were ranked by Harper's Bazaar as the number one TV couple with the "Best Onscreen Chemistry."

Oliva and Fitz, affectionately known as "Olitz" by fans, definitely do not always behave...well...good. There is corruption, there is infidelity, there are fictitious war crimes, and yet, viewers could not help but root for them. ScreenRant ranked them the best couple of the series overall saying, "While timing may never have been their strong suit, from the moment Fitz and Olivia first met, it was clear that there would never, ever really be anyone else for either of them."

Development for Scandal started in early 2011 by Shonda Rhimes, loosely based on Judy Smith, the press aide for President George H. W. Bush. Judy Smith would also serve as a co-executive producer on the show. Washington beat out actresses Gabrielle Union and Taraji P. Henson for the role of Olivia Pope, and was the first Black woman to headline a US network television drama series in nearly 40 years upon her casting. Goldwyn was cast as President Fitzgerald Grant shortly after.

Scandalis a political thriller and gripping drama that follows Olivia Pope, a former White House Communications Director who runs a Washington, D.C. crisis management firm called Olivia Pope & Associates. Alongside her fiercely loyal team of misfits and other political sharks, she protects the secrets and reputations of the United States' elite while navigating a highly emotional, at times volatile, forbidden love affair with the President, Fitzgerald Grant.

Scandal ran from 2012 to 2018 on ABC and was extremely popular among viewers. Scandal was also very popular on social media, with Nielsen Social ranking it as the most popular with Twitter users at the time. The series won two Primetime Emmy Awards, two TV Guide Awards, and a Peabody, among other accolades.

All of that being said, the thing most fans took away from Scandal was the magnetism between Olivia and Fitz. A couple who stays with you, long after the credits have rolled and the finale has played.

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Related: 16 Must-Watch TV Shows Coming in 2026

Today's NYT Strands puzzle is the name of a popular Red Hot Chili Peppers Song. Move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times' recent game, "Strands," is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.

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

We'll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today's Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #807 on Tuesday, May 19.

How to Play Strands

The New York Times

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

Find theme words to fill the board.

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

Find the “spangram.”

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

Need a hint?

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

What Is Today's Strands Hint for the Theme: "On the rise."

A hint for today's Strands game: Time to climb.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

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

• HI
• BU
• MO
• HU
• KN
• SL
• RI
• HI (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

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

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for May 19

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Tuesday, May 19, 2026, isHIGHERGROUND.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Tuesday, May 19?

• HILL
• BUTTE
• MOUND
• HUMMOCK
• KNOLL
• SLOPE
• RIDGE
• SPANGRAM: HIGHERGROUND

Related: Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Monday, May 18, 2026

Goodreads is the largest online home for readers, with book lovers regularly checking in to note the status of their TBR lists and review their recent reads. The interactive bookshelf behemoth lets readers track their own reading progress while also connecting with other bookworms and stay on top of the latest book news.

Recently, Goodreads shared its rating and shelving data with ScreenRant, allowing them to quantify some of the best books of the last decade. With an average rating of 4.22 stars, along with 1.4 million ratings, 140,000 reviews, and 3 million shelvings, author Madeline Miller's epic mythological retelling novel, Circe, can officially be called the Goodreads "Best Fantasy Book of the Decade."

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Circeis a feminist, epic and mythic retelling of mythology from the perspective of Circe, the sun god Helios's daughter. After she is born, Circe is looked at as strange and weak and nothing like her powerful parents. After turning to the mortal world, she discovers she possesses the forbidden power of witchcraft. Zeus banishes her to the island of Aiaia, where Circe hones her craft, and transforms from her once timid self into a fully autonomous sorceress who crosses paths with many of the most famous figures in all of mythology.

Upon its release in 2018, Circe was a number one New York Times bestseller, a number one Indie bestseller, received a starred review from Publishers Weekly, a starred review from Library Journal, and was on several notable anticipated lists. The Sunday Timessaid the novel was, "poised to become the literary sensation of the summer, as much for the quality of its writing as its timeliness.”

Madeline Miller was inspired to write the novel due to her own personal disappointment in the character of Circe's treatment in mythology, specifically in The Odyssey. "Odysseus has told his story for the last 3,000 years—it was time for Circe to speak for herself," the bestselling author said of her sophomore book.

In 2019, Circe was optioned by HBO Max for an eight-part mini-series to be written and produced by Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver of Jurassic World, Avatar: The Way of Water, and Mulan. As of 2026, the production is stuck in development limbo and there have been no further updates.

Related: 'Full of Heart and Wonder': GMA Book Club Names a Genre-Blending Must-Read for May 2026

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With the summer travel season ramping up, comfortable, versatile footwear is essential for days filled with walking, sightseeing, hiking, or exploring new places. Packing sandals that offer support, grip, and all-day comfort is a must, and Columbia has a great pair for over half off right now.

Normally $75, the Trailstorm Hiker 2-Strap Sandal is on sale for 40% off, but Columbia rewards members are currently eligible for an extra 20% off sale items, which drops the price to just $36. Signing up for a membership is free, and it also earns you free shipping on every order, so there's really no reason not to take advantage of this outstanding deal.

Trailstorm Hiker 2-Strap Sandal, $36 (was $75) at Columbia

Courtesy of Columbia

Shop at Columbia

This hybrid sandal is designed to handle everything from city streets to trails without skipping a beat. The durable suede upper features two adjustable hook-and-loop closures for a secure, customized fit. They provide light cushioning underfoot with a supportive foam midsole that molds to your feet and keeps foot pain at bay, even when walking for miles.

A rugged rubber outsole features a hike-specific tread pattern that delivers excellent traction, and the water-resistant design makes these sandals practical for everything from splashing through streams to strolling slick streets after summer rain. Striking the perfect balance between casual everyday sandals and performance hikers, they're ideal for all sorts of summer activities, from beach walks and exploring parks to city tours, day-long hikes, camping, or simply running errands. 

These sandals have a sporty yet stylish look that pairs easily with shorts, dresses, or capris, so you can go from a morning at the beach to afternoon sightseeing without changing shoes. They're on sale in two colors — black with light cloud gray accents and fungi with apricot fizz accents — and come in women's whole sizes 5 through 12.

Related: Crocs’ 'Supportive' Sandals Feel Like 'Walking on Air,' and They’re Just $20 at Walmart

Dubbed as "great walking sandals," reviewers said they feel "very comfortable" and have "great arch support." Several customers noted that the soles have "great grip," which makes them easy to wear across various terrains, even in wet or slippery conditions. And because "they match just about anything," shoppers said these sandals are "perfect for summer travels."

Shop More Deals

• Women's Chill River Midi Dress, $43 (was $90) at Columbia
• Pike Lake II Tote, $28 (was $50) at Columbia
• Redmond Low Shoe, $43 (was $90) at Columbia

You won't want to miss the chance to snag the Trailstorm Hiker 2-Strap Sandal for just $36 ahead of summer. Sign up to become a member to secure this deal at Columbia while you still can!

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

Spoilers ahead! We've warned you. We mean it. Read no further until you really want some clues or you've completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today's NYT 'Connections’ hints and answers for #1073 on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Tuesday, May 19, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

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

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

Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Tuesday, May 19

1. Waaaaaah!
2. Mess with the numbers.
3. Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing.
4. Under the sea.

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

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

iStock

Today's Connections Game Answers for Tuesday, May 19:

1. THINGS BABIES DO: BABBLE, CRY, NURSE, TEETHE
2. MODIFY DECEPTIVELY: ALTER, COOK, DOCTOR, FUDGE
3. JUDY BLUME BOOKS: BLUBBER, DEENIE, FOREVER, SUPERFUDGE
4. FISH MINUS A LETTER: FOUNDER, SALON, SURGEON, TROT

How'd you do?

Up Next:

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

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

Related: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Monday, May 18, 2026

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

If you’re shopping around for an engagement ring or an upgrade for your sweetheart, consider eyeing a few lab-grown diamond options. Lab-grown diamonds are a huge trend right now, because they’re just as sparkly and luxe-looking as natural diamonds, and you can get them at a fraction of the cost. 

Peace Jewelers 14-Karat Gold 1.00ctw Lab-Grown Diamond Solitaire Ring is a prime example. It’s a gorgeous ring that looks just like a natural diamond, and it’s just $500 on ShopHQ. It’s marked down a whopping 72% off its original $1,795 price. Even better, for 48 hours, you can grab one for an additional 20% off with code GALA20 during ShopHQ’s Diamond Gala event. It’s an incredible deal that you shouldn’t miss. 

Peace Jewelers 14-Karat Gold 1.00ctw Lab-Grown Diamond Solitaire Ring, $500 (was $1,795) at ShopHQ

Courtesy of ShopHQ

The dazzling ring looks like a classic engagement ring. It has a single 1-carat, round-cut lab-grown diamond set on a 14 karat gold band in a classic solitaire style, and you can choose if you want that band to be yellow gold or white gold. The ring is available in sizes 5-10 in both band options, but given that the sale knocks the ring’s price to less than $500, we wouldn’t be surprised if it starts selling out soon. 

Take 20% off all diamond jewelry with code GALA20 for 48 hours only

The diamond has an impressive F color grade, so it looks colorless and bright, and its VS1 clarity grade indicates very minimal inclusions that are hard to see without magnification. That, combined with the beautiful shine on the polished band, makes it a standout. Shoppers raved about the ring with nearly two dozen five-star reviews, with one calling it “Absolutely beautiful.” Another wrote, “Wow, stunning diamond set in classic 14k white gold! This is such a beautiful ring at a great price.” 

Related: This Dazzling Diamond Pendant Necklace Looks So Luxe, and It’s on Sale for 40% Off

An additional shopper chimed in, “This ring is gorgeous. The sparkle from the diamond is blinding,” while another noted, “I wear this as my daily ring and get so many compliments. Do not hesitate to purchase this!” The ring’s solitaire style makes it perfect for engagements or ring upgrades. As one shopper mentioned, you can wear this ring every day — and with anything in your closet. Its minimalistic setting makes it timeless and versatile. It will work with looks for casual hangouts to formal gowns at spring and summer galas. 

Shop More Deals

• Peace Jewelers Sterling Silver 1.45ctw Lab-Grown Diamond Pavé Halo Ring, $395 (was $525) at ShopHQ
• Peace Jewelers 14K Gold Princess Cut Lab-Grown Diamond Solitaire Ring, $1,495 (was $2,100) at ShopHQ
• Peace Jewelers 14K Gold Oval Lab-Grown Diamond Solitaire Ring, $1,495 (was $2,100) at ShopHQ

This stunning lab-grown diamond solitaire ring is the perfect gift for yourself, a present for a loved one for birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays, and/or for popping the question. Grab it while it’s on sale for less than $500 for 48 hours! 

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Inspired by "Good Times" from the band Chic, the iconic anthem "Another One Bites the Dust" from Queen was written by the band's bassist, John Deacon. Deacon played almost all of the instruments during recording sessions including bass guitar, piano, electric guitar, and even handclaps. Famously, it was Michael Jackson who suggested to lead singer Freddie Mercury that Queen release "Another One Bites the Dust" as a single

The unmistakeable and unforgettable bassline of the song is widely considered to be one of the most memorable in rock music. Polls have listed it as number one for the "Greatest Baselines in Music History" and ClassicalMusic.comagreed, putting it in the top spot for "Best Basslines in Rock." Record Worldcalled it "a brutal bass conspires with the sing-along hook on this thoroughly contagious [song]."

"Another One Bites the Dust" was a total worldwide hit, charting at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 for three weeks upon release and spending 15 total weeks in the top 10, making it the longest running top ten song of 1980. The song spent 31 weeks total on the Billboard chart—which was more than any other song that year. "Another One Bites the Dust" is Queen's best-selling single in the band's catalog, selling over 7 million copies. Billboard named the song number 34 in its "All Time Top Songs."

The hit Queen song was one of many popular rock songs to be subjected to conspiracy theories from Christian evangelists. The radical claims suggested that playing the chorus of the song backwards (also known as "backmasking") would show the listener was actually hearing Mercury sing:  "Decide to smoke marijuana" or, "It's fun to smoke marijuana" or, "Start to smoke marijuana." This has never been proven whatsoever.

The iconic bassline is good for more than just a stellar listening session. The beats per minute of said bassline is used to train medical professionals to provide the correct number of chest compressions per minute while performing CPR. A study proved that doing compressions to the beat of "Another One Bites the Dust" helped improve the accuracy of rates when people were performing CPR.

The song won an American Music Award for Favorite Rock Single and was also nominated for a Grammy Award. Classic Rock History critic an author Millie Zeiler rated it John Deacon's second best Queen song, only behind "You're My Best Friend."

Related: Legendary Frontman Named 'Greatest Vocalist of All Time' 35 Years After His Death

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In 1984, a rock group burned bright but fizzled fast in the limelight, now ranked among the so-called “failed supergroups” of all time.

The Firm, a British rock quartet known for its chart-topping hit “Radioactive,” was once regarded as having cult status due to its interesting lineup.

Founded by iconic guitarist Jimmy Page from Led Zeppelin and Paul Rodgers from Bad Company and Free, the ambitious project brought in two additional members, Tony Franklin on bass guitar and AC/DC’s Chris Slade on drums and percussion.

In a list by BBC Music, the "Closer" hitmakers were among the nine supergroups that failed to live up to expectations.

While Cream, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young and The Traveling Wilburys dominated the era with their smash hits and enduring legacies, The Firm struggled to etch its own place in music history, lasting only two years before disbanding.

Jimmy Page and Paul Rodgers perform during the ARMS Charity Concerts in 1983.

Bill Tompkins/Getty Images

In 1985, they released their self-titled debut album, achieving moderate commercial success at the time, thanks to their hit single “Radioactive,” a chart-topping track that helped the album reach No. 17 on the US Billboard 200 chart and No. 15 on the UK Albums Chart.

However, in an attempt to follow through with the same momentum, their second album, Mean Business, received mixed reactions.

Released only a year later, their sophomore album marked a commercial decline for The Firm.

The band suffered creatively and lacked new material, prompting them to reuse previously written songs to complete the album.

The Firm member Tony Franklin shared that while they see Mean Business as “more interesting” than the first one, he admitted their debut album had something “special” that the follow-up lacked.

"Musically, I think the second album was more interesting. But there was a special vibe on the first album, a chemistry that was somehow lacking on the second album," he said in an interview, adding, "The intention was to make two albums and then assess it from there. If it had been hugely successful, then we may have continued to make further albums."

Although the four-member group only had a brief run, The Firm’s legacy endures as one of the ’80s’ most intriguing and cautionary supergroup experiments.

Related: ’80s Rock Band, With Classic No. 1 Hit, Ranked Among 'Best Supergroups' of All Time