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If you love discovering smart home upgrades at Sam's Club, you are not alone. Shoppers are always on the lookout for products that save time, cut down on effort and actually deliver results. From kitchen must-haves to bathroom essentials, Sam's Club consistently stocks items that turn everyday chores into something far more manageable. Now, members are buzzing about a new cleaning tool at Sam's Club that promises to make deep cleaning faster, easier and a lot less exhausting.

The Fanttik Dual-Speed Electric Scrubber with 6 Brush Heads, available at Sam's Club for $39.98 right now, is quickly becoming a fan favorite. The high-performance motor works smarter than single-speed scrubbers, helping you power through soap scum, grout buildup and stubborn stains without spending hours scrubbing by hand. It's easy to see why Sam's Club shoppers are calling it a game changer.

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One of the biggest advantages of this Sam's Club find is its versatility. The scrubber features dual-speed control with two intelligent cleaning modes, so you can switch between light maintenance and heavy-duty scrubbing with ease. It also includes six interchangeable brush heads: flat brush, dome brush, corner brush, sponge brush, fabric brush and wool brush. Whether you are cleaning bathtubs, sinks, glass doors, tiled floors or tight grout lines, this all-in-one system from Sam's Club adapts to nearly every surface in your home.

Fanttik Dual-Speed Electric Scrubber, $39.98 at Sam's Club

Sam's Club

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Comfort and convenience are also built into the design. The brush head adjusts to three fixed angles to fit different cleaning scenarios. Paired with a detachable telescopic handle, it allows you to clean showers, floors and tubs without constant bending or awkward repositioning. For anyone who dreads scrubbing on hands and knees, this Sam's Club scrubber offers a much more comfortable experience.

Related: Chocolate Lovers Are Racing to Sam's Club for This Returning Cult-Favorite Dessert

Durability and performance set this scrubber apart from others at Sam's Club. With a waterproof body, it can be fully submerged in sinks or bathtubs for thorough edge-to-edge cleaning. Type-C charging and a real-time display keep you powered up and in control every time you clean. Dual-speed scrubbers are often used in commercial settings because they combine low-speed scrubbing with higher-speed polishing, and now Sam's Club shoppers can bring that same efficient concept into their own homes.

If deep cleaning has been sitting on your to-do list, Sam's Club may have just made it easier than ever to check it off.

Related: Sam's Club Is Selling an 'Adorable' $20 Glass Find Shoppers Say Is 'Perfect for Every Occasion'

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When you’re packing your suitcase for a vacay, shoes are usually the first thing you start second-guessing. They take up more space than clothes and add weight, bringing you to the task of narrowing it down to just one or two pairs that can do it all. The problem is, not every sandal is actually built for that vigorous of wear. Some look great in photos but don’t hold up after a full day of walking. And the last thing you want is to cut plans short because your feet can’t keep up. 

That’s why having a go-to pair you can rely on, like the Dr. Scholl’s Islander Sandals, matters. Even better, this pair is currently just $34 at Amazon, marked down 58% from its original $80 price tag. They’re designed with comfort in mind but still chic enough to wear with dressier outfits, which makes them a practical pick for everything from travel days to everyday errands.

Dr. Scholl’s Islander Sandals, From $34 (was $80) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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This breezy, strappy sandal leans into laid-back vacation energy while quietly packing in thoughtful design details. The upper features soft, flexible straps arranged in a foot-hugging configuration that balances openness with support. Stretch gore panels are seamlessly integrated, allowing the sandal to flex as you move and making it a step-in-and-go style. The microfiber upper and soft linings are crafted from 100% recycled plastic bottles, giving the sandal a lightweight feel while supporting environmental sustainability.

Underfoot, the contoured insole is engineered with anatomical cushioning that adapts to your foot’s natural shape, delivering all-day comfort. A subtle 1.25-inch faux wood wedge heel adds a boost of height while maintaining stability and ease. The look is finished with a crisp, scalloped white outsole that adds a pop of visual contrast and texture. 

The sandal comes in two easy-to-style neutrals: Black, priced at $34, and beige at $37. Both colors are available in half sizes from 6 through 11, making it easier to find a comfortable, just-right fit.

Related: Amazon's $41 Skechers Sandals Feel Like Walking on 'Little Clouds' and Come in 3 Colors

In the reviews sections, shoppers raved that these “supportive” and “lightweight” sandals are “great for trips with lots of walking.” One shopper wrote, "From cobblestone streets to long days of sightseeing, these sandals have exceeded every expectation. The comfort level is unmatched; the memory foam insoles provide incredible support, making them ideal for hours of walking without any discomfort or fatigue.”

Another shopper echoed those thoughts, sharing that they “wore these for a week straight on a trip to Italy with a lot of walking — streets, stairs, beaches — and they were comfortable all day long. My feet weren’t tired or sore at the end of the day, and I didn’t get any blisters.”

Shop More Deals

• Dr. Scholl's Time Off Sky Sandals, from $50 (was $80) at Amazon
• Dr. Scholl's Madison Cloud Slide, from $60 (was $95) at Amazon
• Dr. Scholl's Time Off Sea Sandals, from $33 (was $80) at Amazon

Easy on your wallet and ready for wherever the day takes you, the Dr. Scholl’s Islander Sandals are built for all your warm-weather plans. Grab a pair at Amazon while they’re still down to just $34.

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

If you're anything like me, the day is not complete until I finish all of the free word games from the New York Times. Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can't forget about the NYT's The Mini Crossword, too!

Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.

So, if you're working on today's Mini on for Today's Mini Crossword on Saturday, May 2, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Saturday, May 2, 2026

Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: Person who likes things totally authentic, or not at all — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

7 Across: ChatGPT's company —HINT: Starts with the letter "O"

8 Across: Chance for one's kids to watch shows, perhaps — HINT: Starts with the letter "T"

9 Across: Not in the closet — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

10 Across: Video game with falling pieces — HINT: Starts with the letter "T"

13 Across: Dance fad of the mid-2010s that was paired with the "Whip" — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

14 Across: Wrestle — HINT: Starts with the letter "T"

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

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Collection of poker bets — HINT: Starts with the letter "P"

2 Down: Likes : Facebook :: ___ : Reddit — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

3 Down: Tax filings — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

4 Down: The "A," "O" or "C" of A.O.C. — HINT: Starts with the letter "I"

5 Down: ___ Altman, C.E.O. of 7-Across — HINT: Ends with the letter "M"

6 Down: Item of attire that might have a Windsor knot — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

10 Down: Explosive compound, for short — HINT: Starts with the letter "T"

11 Down: Water, in French — HINT: Ends with the letter "U"

12 Down: Notice — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Saturday, May 2, 2026

Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Answers

1 Across: Person who likes things totally authentic, or not at all — PURIST

7 Across: ChatGPT's company —OPENAI

8 Across: Chance for one's kids to watch shows, perhaps — TVTIME

9 Across: Not in the closet — OUT

10 Across: Video game with falling pieces — TETRIS

13 Across: Dance fad of the mid-2010s that was paired with the "Whip" — NAENAE

14 Across: Wrestle — TUSSLE

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Collection of poker bets — POT

2 Down: Likes : Facebook :: ___ : Reddit — UPVOTES

3 Down: Tax filings — RETURNS

4 Down: The "A," "O" or "C" of A.O.C. — INITIAL

5 Down: ___ Altman, C.E.O. of 7-Across — SAM

6 Down: Item of attire that might have a Windsor knot — TIE

10 Down: Explosive compound, for short — TNT

11 Down: Water, in French — EAU

12 Down: Notice — SEE

Related: This Adorable $3 Grill Season Find at Aldi Makes Mealtime Fun

Depending on what corner of the social zeitgeist you occupy, you may have noticed an uptick in chatter surrounding what some feel is a surge in accepted mediocrity. Harsher critics have called it an addiction, citing a growing sentiment that the bare minimum is more palatable and comforting to the masses. Why take the risk when the evidence shows that you can get equal or even outsized rewards for doing less? Sure, you could spend months developing recipes before finally releasing a cookbook, or you could just “ask Chat” and get it done in a matter of seconds. It might not be as good, but when the standards are so low, subpar AI slop can pass as genuine time-tested expertise without even trying. 

It’s a phenomenon you can see across industries and disciplines, from music to art and even food. Especially when it comes to food, more and more people agree that we’ve entered an era where going out to eat is really just seeing who can cook Sysco the best, and, honestly, we're inclined to agree. Not that you can’t make magic with ingredients wherever you source them, but you can always tell when a restaurant goes the extra mile to laugh in the face of mediocrity and produce something truly extraordinary.

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Related: Shake Shack Just Dropped 3 New Milkshakes for Summer 2026

Case in point: Shake Shack’s new Smoky BBQ menu, so good that yours truly is petitioning for it to become a permanent addition. The beloved fast-casual burger brand introduced the stacked new menu nationwide on April 28, and yours truly got to sit down with Shake Shack’s Chief Communications Officer, Luke DeRouen, and try out the new menu. Included in the lineup are a few returning favorites, like the Smoky Classic BBQ Burger, along with new items like Mac and Cheese and a Boneless BBQ Baby Back Rib Sandwich. And, of course, to wash it all down, you can grab one of three new shakes or a tasty flavored lemonade. 

Shake Shack Launches New Limited-Time Smoky BBQ Menu

Courtesy Kenn C. Bivins

Upon arrival at the Shake Shack location at The Battery, just steps away from the brand’s new Atlanta Support Center and Kitchen Innovation Lab, I was immediately greeted by Luke and sat down to discuss all things Shake Shack. Now that the formalities are out of the way, let’s get into why you landed here in the first place. In a word, everything was exceptional. Crispy fried onions on top of perfectly lacy smashed burger patties, mingling with smoky bacon and barbecue sauce, blanketed in melty American cheese and brightened up by tangy pickles. The gentle yet distinct heat from the cayenne on the spicy cheese fries, juxtaposed with the rich, unctuous cheese sauce—it’s truly a love letter to summer barbecues. 

View this post on Instagram My Honest Review of Shake Shack's New Boneless BBQ Baby Back Rib Sandwich

But more than anything, the new Boneless BBQ Baby Back Rib Sandwich epitomizes what this limited-time menu is all about—and it’s exactly what I’ll be going back for again and again. Instead of pulled pork or some rib-shaped mass of mystery meat, this sandwich is literally almost half of a tender, juicy pork rib deboned and then cooked to perfection. When you order, it gets a quick flash fry to give the exterior a nice crispy texture, and then it’s layered onto a pillowy soft potato roll with barbecue sauce, coleslaw and pickles. I was sold at first bite. It’s exceedingly tender. Like melt-in-your-mouth tender and the added texture just really makes this feel like something you’d enjoy straight off the grill.

Courtesy Kenn C. Bivins

That mindblowing taste is no accident, of course. According to Luke, this sandwich took a whopping five years to perfect, and before they even considered making it at scale, the team went through all of the logistics first. The ribs themselves are actually sourced from a family butchery that brines and processes the meat until it’s tender enough to be deboned by hand. It’s then shipped to stores, where highly-trained team members cook each order to perfection. How’s that for a departure from mediocre?

Courtesy Kenn C. Bivins

Joining the Boneless BBQ Baby Back Rib Sandwich is the brand’s new limited-time Mac and Cheese side, which honestly tastes like sitting outside on the patio with an ice-cold beer in hand. Perfectly cooked cavatappi noodles cling to a rich cheese sauce—conveniently made with Shake Shack’s famous cheese sauce—and are then topped with toasted breadcrumbs. It’s decadent and creamy and a perfect complement to the rest of the items on the menu. Again, I wouldn’t be mad if they decided to make this a permanent offering. 

Mac and Cheese Joins Shake Shack Menu as a Limited-Time Side

Courtesy Kenn C. Bivins

Beyond the mouthwatering food, though, what really came through was just how much Shake Shack values your experience from beginning to end. It has an atmosphere that lets you know you’re welcome. You can feel it as soon as you walk through the door, and it only helps that the food is worth raving about. Although the likelihood of words “Shake Shack” and “mediocre” appearing in the same sentence is highly unlikely anyway, this limited-time offering from the fast-casual burger joint truly stands out as a perfect example of what Shake Shack is at its core. High-quality, approachable food, made fresh and served up with signature hospitality that lets you know you’re among friends. 

As for what’s next for Shake Shack, Luke teased that the brand plans to open a slate of new locations later this year and hinted at even more deliciousness to come. We know where we’ll be this summer. How about you?

Related: Pabst Blue Ribbon Teams Up With Smithfield for an All-American Collab That's Perfect for Grilling Season

Barry Manilow shared some good and bad news on his Instagram story on Friday evening.

It was revealed last December that the 82-year-old singer was diagnosed with Stage 1 lung cancer, after an MRI scan revealed a spot on his left lung. He underwent a successful lobe-removal surgery, resulting in a cancer-free status and requiring no chemotherapy or radiation. But because of his health issues, Manilow had to reschedule many of his shows that were originally planned to take place during the first three months of 2026.

One of those was his ongoing Manilow: The Hits Come Home! Las Vegas residency, set to take place at the International Theater at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. He was supposed to start the run of shows next Thursday, but announced on Instagram that he is "not quite ready for Vegas."

"I went to the doctor yesterday and he said I'm making great progress and look great! All the training and exercising I've put in is paying off," the message read. "He did say, however, that I'm not quite ready for Vegas. This means I won't be able to return for our May shows at Westgate Las Vegas."

"The Westgate Las Vegas is my home away from home and I'll see you all in July," he concluded, providing a timeline for his fans expecting to see him in concert. The singer also said that he should be ready for his shows in the United Kingdom that are taking place this June. "It's going to be great to see you all in the UK," he added.

Barry Manilow performs onstage during the "Manilow: The Last Seattle Concert" at Climate Pledge Arena on July 12, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.

Mat Hayward/Getty Images

According to PEOPLE, Manilow first went to the doctor in November because of hip pain. The doctor ordered him an MRI for his pelvis, then for his lungs, when he learned the "Somewhere Down The Road" singer had recently battled bronchitis.

"If he hadn’t done that, man...He saved my life, because there’s no symptoms for what I had. I could go on, nothing hurt — but they found the dot in my lung," he told PEOPLE.

A month later, Manilow underwent the procedure and spent a week in the ICU. As of now, he is cancer-free, but still on his road to recovery.

"It has really, really made me take stock of my life. This made me stop and think about: Have I done what I wanted to do, and have I made people happy? Have I been a good friend? All of those cornball things that I’ve read for all of my life, I started to think about that, too. It really did stop me in my tracks,” he said in his cover story in March. “And the answers are yes. And as a matter of fact, there are more yeses than I ever thought.

Barry Manilow performs onstage during the "Manilow: The Last Seattle Concert" at Climate Pledge Arena on July 12, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.

Mat Hayward/Getty Images

Manilow started his professional music career in 1964, when CBS director Bro Herrod asked him to arrange some songs for a musical adaptation of the drama, The Drunkard. At the time, Manilow was 21 years old, and instead, wrote an entire score. He then started working as a jingle writer and singer throughout the 1960s.

In 1973, he released his self-titled debut album through Bell / Arista Records, which peaked at No. 28 on the Billboard 200. He has since released more than 30 studio albums, with a new one titled What a Time on June 5, his first since February 2020.

Manilow also holds two Emmy Awards, a Tony, three American Music Awards and a Grammy for Best Pop Male Vocal Performance for his hit song "Copacabana." In addition, the successful singer has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, is honored at the Songwriters' Hall of Fame and holds a Society of Singers Lifetime Achievement Award.

Singer/songwriter Barry Manilow photographed in New York City in 1976.

Jack Mitchell/Getty Images

The first show for his upcoming Manilow: The Hits Come Home! Las Vegas residency is expected to kick off on July 9, and multiple shows will take place until October. Tickets for the upcoming residency can be purchased on Manilow's official website.

Related: Angelina Jolie’s Emotional Message on Cancer and the Fragility of Life

Interpol dropped a major announcement ahead of their U.K. and European tours.

The rock band known for its post-punk revival sound announced the lineup for its 2026 North American tour.

The trio consists of current members Paul Banks on vocals and guitar, Daniel Kessler on guitar and Sam Fogarino on drums.

In an Instagram post, the “Obstacle 1” hitmakers announced they will be having 21 shows across major cities, including Las Vegas, San Diego, San Francisco, Boston, Montreal, Chicago and more.

Interpol’s North American tour kicks off in Denver on July 31 and wraps up in Nashville on Oct. 17.

Paul Banks of Interpol performs at the 2026 Coachella Valley Music And Arts Festival - Weekend 1 - Day 2 on April 11, 2026 in Indio, California.

Katie Flores/Billboard via Getty Images

In addition, the band revealed the special guests joining them on the road.

“North America, stoked to see you this summer & fall. Sign up for pre-sale access through the link in our bio. We’ll be joined by incredible artists @trevorpowers (Youth Lagoon), @loatheasone, @julieband, @diiv, & @frenchpoliceband,” the caption reads.

Lastly, Interpol advised fans that the artist pre-sale will be available on Wednesday, May 6 at 10 a.m., while general tickets will go on sale on Friday, May 8 at 10 a.m.

View this post on Instagram

Interpol’s upcoming North American tour marks their return to the U.S. two years after celebrating the 20th anniversary of their second studio album, Antics.

In late 2024, the band played major stops including Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, New York and Philadelphia for a series of shows featuring The Walkmen, Deafheaven and The Black Angels as supporting acts on selected dates. 

On the other hand, Interpol is booked and busy this year.

As mentioned earlier, they are also gearing up for their U.K. and European tour, starting in November and running through December.

Interpol North American Tour Dates

July 31 — Denver, CO @ The Mission Ballroom

Aug. 2 — Jackson Hole, WY @ Snow King Mountain

Aug. 3 — Boise, ID @ Revolution Concert House

Aug. 6 — Portland, OR @ Edgefield

Aug. 8 — Tacoma, WA @ Dune Peninsula

Aug. 11 — San Francisco, CA @ The Warfield &

Aug. 14 — Santa Barbara, CA @ Santa Barbara Bowl &

Aug. 15 — San Diego, CA @ The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park &

Aug. 16 — Las Vegas, NV @ The Theater at Virgin Hotels &

Sept. 26 — Brooklyn, NY @ CBGB Festival: Under the K Bridge

Sept. 29 — Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena

Oct. 2 — Toronto, ON @ The Bowl at Sobeys Stadium

Oct. 3 — Montreal, QC @ L’Olympia

Oct. 4 — Boston, MA @ Roadrunner

Oct. 6 — Pittsburgh, PA @ Stage AE

Oct. 7 — Cleveland, OH @ Agora Theatre and Ballroom

Oct. 9 — Detroit, MI @ Masonic Jack White Theatre

Oct. 10 — Columbus, OH @ KEMBA Live! Outdoors

Oct. 11 — Chicago, IL @ The Salt Shed Fairgrounds

Oct. 13 — St. Louis, MO @ The Factory 

Oct. 16 — Atlanta, GA @ The Eastern

Oct. 17 — Nashville, TN @ The Pinnacle 

Related: ’80s Thrash Metal Frontman, Who Survived Rare Cancer, Announces New Project

Things are looking mighty grim for Kristen Blake DiMera (Stacy Haiduk) on Days of Our Lives, and next week appears to include a ghostly visit.

The official Days of Our Lives Instagram account posted a weekly promo for the Peacock soap opera, previewing the drama airing from May 4, 2026, through May 8, 2026.

The promo teased the fallout of Sophia Choi’s (Rachel Boyd) apparent death. Her mother, Amy Choi (Shi Ne Nielson), is told by Jada (Elia Cantu) that they have found blood that appears to be Sophia’s. Meanwhile, Kristen questions if her brother E.J. (Daniel Feuerriegel) is suggesting that she had something to do with Sophia’s attempted murder of his son, Johnny DiMera (Carson Boatman).

The promo ends with a shocking surprise: a blood-drenched Sophia enters the DiMera household and asks, “What’s the matter, Kristen? You look like you’ve seen a ghost?” as she walks into the living room.

View this post on Instagram

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Boyd took to the comment section to have some fun, saying, “👻 boo.”

Fans React

Fans quickly took to the comment section to share their thoughts and excitement for the storyline and its performances.

One user shared, “The actresses playing Sophia and Kristen are crushing these roles and story lines. They bring so much emotion, dimension, and depth to their characters.”

A second fan added, “Kristen is hallucinating, thinking Sophia came straight out of the river and walked into the Dimera mansion to torment her!!!👀 Karma is paying Kristen a visit!!! Poor Ami Choi has to deal with the horror of losing her daughter, she thinks, to suicide.😢 The will reading has its own nightmare, Anna is totally right!!!”

With a third user writing, “This show is getting wild! How did EJ discover Kristen and Sophia's secrets? And Kristen killing Sophia? I'm still reeling from that reveal 😱”

Fans will have to stay tuned to see how the story plays out and whether or not Sophia is truly dead.

Days of Our Lives streams weekdays on Peacock.

The unique 1984 Christmas movie showed a father, Rand (Hoyt Axton), bringing home a creature that came with three important instructions. Of course, those rules were broken and his son, Billy (Zach Galligan) had to deal with his town overrun with Gremlins.

Gremlins director Joe Dante revealed a secret cut of the movie at a screening. Here is how it's different from the released hit.

Why Kate’s ‘Gremlins’ Monologue Was Almost Cut Phoebe Cates and Zach Galligan in 'Gremlins'

Warner Brothers/Getty Images

Dante screened a two-and-a-half-hour cut of Gremlins for horror filmmakers, according to The Hollywood Reporter. This version still had pencil drawings of scenes, while other moments were missing. Some characters weren't in the final version like an elderly Chinese woman who helps Rand before he goes to our familiar store owner (Keye Luke).

Related: 2004 Drama Ranked No. 1 for Best Biopic Performance

It doesn't take long for Gizmo to accidentally get wet with spilled water and form Gremlins. The secret version introduces the mischievous version of the creature after an hour. The iconic bar scene in which Kate (Phoebe Cates) serves the gremlins runs about 10 minutes longer.

Kate tells Billy that her father was found with a broken neck inside her chimney dressed as Santa Claus as a child. That's why she doesn't like the holiday. This scene isn't in the secret version and it almost didn't make the final cut.

"Studio almost made us cut that initially, but it was Joe Dante and I's favorite scene in the movie," screenwriter Christopher Columbus said, according to Yahoo. Cartoonist Gahan Wilson drew a skeleton in a chimney wearing a Santa Claus outfit, which inspired the morbid backstory. Dante and Steven Spielberg fought to keep it.

The only available copy of the early version was given to The Gremlins Museum. The website details more of the cut scenes.

Related: A-List Actress Lied About Her Height to Get Roles

We love a new era. And it looks like Jessica Alba does as well. 

The actress, entrepreneur, and founder of The Honest Company just debuted new ink on her social media, giving fans a peek at the phoenix tattoo permanently etched into her back. And if we're reading the tea leaves correctly, we're thinking the mythical bird, rooted in Greek mythology and often used to symbolize rebirth, ressurection, and eternal life, is Alba's way of quietly signaling a new chapter.

In addition to an image tucked away in a carousel of highlights, the Honey actress also uploaded video footage of the process to her Instagram Stories. 

“April diary 💐 A month filled with lots of love, self care and good company,” she captioned the post, while also writing, “In love with how this turned out,” on her video.

Located at the top of her back, right under her neckline, the dainty design is more of an outline of a rising phoenix, rather than a loyal depiction. Its feathers and tail remain intentionally unfinished, with the head and body bearing abstract shapes. And fans are absolutely loving the results.

"I really enjoy seeing your posts! You are amazing showing this! Thank you!❤️🌈❤️," one fan writes.

"Phoenix rising! Let’s go!!!" another says.

"God was in a really good mood the day he made you ❤️," yet another comments.

The artwork was done by tattoo artist Daniel Winter, aka Winterstone. According to People, the artist has a long resume of working with A-list celebrities, citing Matt Damon, Snoop Dogg, John Legend, Lady Gaga, and Mandy Moore. 

Alba just celebrated her 45th birthday, as well as the ink drying on her February divorce papers. "I’m walking into this next year with more grace, more joy, more gratitude, and a deeper love for the people who make my life mine," she captioned her celebratory post.

Tattoos are nothing new for the mom of three. Earlier this year, she debuted another delicate tattoo, this one a message in tiny script down lining the inside of her left forearm.

View this post on Instagram

In 2019, Alba told Refinery29that she regretted a couple of her tattoos — a bouquet on her neck and "kind of a tramp stamp" image of a bow. “I got it when I was, like, 17 and I’m so irritated that I got it,” Alba said of the flowers. “I got it lasered many times and it’s not coming out.”

Related: Bianca Censori Risks Wardrobe Mishap During Night Out With Kanye West

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Spring may be all about embracing the outdoors, but it's also an ideal time to show your indoor plants some love. Investing in chic plant stands can elevate your home’s aesthetic and give your favorite plants the spotlight they deserve. Right now, Wayfair has a sale on a three-piece planter set that gives your plants a pretty place to exist at an incredible value.

Normally $104, the Bayou Breeze 3-Piece Wicker Planter Stand Set is now available at a whopping 64% discount for just $37. With this deal, you're getting each planter for roughly $12. Beyond their cute vintage style, these planters offer a practical perk: they give you an instant, high-end upgrade without the hassle of repotting. 

Bayou Breeze 3-Piece Wicker Planter Stand Set, From $37 (was $104) at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

Shop at Wayfair

Made of sturdy bamboo and pine wood, the wicker design of these planters is a great way to showcase your greenery. Several reviewers shared that these stands are perfect for hiding the less-than-attractive nursery pots that many plants come home in until you're able to get a more permanent planter to slot inside the stands. 

The intricately handwoven wicker of the black colored planter stands has a textured pattern with natural fibers woven throughout the design, giving it an airy feel. Though they have a slightly different look, the three-planter set is also on sale in two other wicker designs in white for $61, down from $101, and brown for $74, down from $100.

The set comes with three different-sized planters of varying heights, allowing you to arrange them in a way that works for your space. The largest is 26 inches high and 15 inches wide, the medium size is 22 inches high and 13 inches wide, and the smallest is 19 inches tall and 11 inches wide.

Related: Wayfair’s $89 3-Piece Bistro Set Will Make You 'Feel Like You’re in France,' and It’s 'Great for Small Spaces'

Reviewers couldn't say enough about these "gorgeous" plant stands, calling the coastal-chic style "adorable." One customer raved that "they are very sturdy and beautiful."

Shoppers were also thoroughly impressed by how easy it was to put these stands together. It takes just a few minutes to screw the legs into the bottom of each planter without any tools needed.

Shop More Deals

• Mistana Fasching 4-Tier Bamboo Plant Stand, $40 (was $115) at Wayfair
• Three Posts Barros Wood Planter Box, $82 (was $139) at Wayfair
• Winston Porter Scalloped Rim Striped Planter Set, $41 (was $68) at Wayfair

Don't wait to give your indoor plants the upgrade they deserve. At just $37, the Bayou Breeze 3-Piece Wicker Planter Stand Set at Wayfair is a deal that's too good to pass up!

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Dannielynn Birkhead looked like the spitting image of her late mom, Anna Nicole Smith, at a red carpet event ahead of the Kentucky Derby with her dad, Larry Birkhead. 

On Friday, May 1, Dannielynn, 19, and Larry, 53, stepped out for their yearly joint appearance at the Barnstable Brown Gala in Louisville, Ky. And she rocked a new hairstyle, to boot.

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Larry took to Instagram to share a photo of himself and Dannielynn posing together on the red carpet ahead of the gala. A second shot was a close-up of the 19-year-old an her new 'do.

"Another year, another Barnstable-Brown Gala for the @Kentuckyderby weekend," he captioned the update. "Dannielynn is rocking a fresh cut and 'goth-rock' style with her @punkraveclothing dress."

Larry added, "She insisted I get in on the theme with my Philipp Plein jacket. Looking forward to a great time for a great cause."

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Related: Larry Birkhead Debuts Bold Hair Transformation at Kentucky Derby With Daughter Dannielynn

Folks promptly flooded the comments of Larry's Instagram post, with many marveling over how much Dannielynn resembles Smith and lauding her edgy new hairstyle. One Instagram user declared, "Man, every time I see her, I see Anna ❤️😍."

Someone else shared, "Loving the hair she looks more like her mom every year, and you don’t look so bad yourself❤️❤️."

Another echoed, "Her style is amazing. You have raised a wonderful young lady."

A different follower pointed out, "You have done such a great job of raising her, Anna would be so proud."

Meanwhile, yet another Instagram user commented, "That haircut is so stunning on her!!! ❤️ gorgeous ❤️."

In 2007, Smith died at 39 from an accidental overdose when Dannielynn was 5 months old. A paternity lawsuit soon followed between Howard K. Stern—who was listed on Dannielynn's birth certificate—and Larry. Testing revealed that Larry was the biological father; he gained custody and has raised his daughter since then.

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Attending the Barnstable Brown Gala—which raises money for diabetes research and treatment at Barnstable Brown Diabetes Center at the University of Kentucky—and Kentucky Derby has been a father-daughter tradition for Larry and Dannielynn for many years. The event holds special meaning to them, as Larry and Smith first met at the 2003 gala when he worked as a photographer.

Next: Dannielynn Birkhead Makes Bold Confession While Wearing Mom Anna Nicole Smith’s Jewelry on Red Carpet

Storage Wars star Darrell Sheets unexpectedly died at 67 in late April, and his ex-wife, Kimber Wuerfel, just broke her silence more than a week later.

On April 22, TMZ broke the news of the A&E Network star’s death, with Lake Havasu Police confirming the reality star's death.

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Wuerfel took to Instagram on April 30 with a video featuring a montage of photos of herself and Sheets set to the song "These Memories" by Hollow Coves. Wuerfel and Sheets were together from roughly 2011 until their divorce in 2016.

"I haven’t had the words until now," she began her tribute. "Thank you for all the love, prayers, and condolences, it has meant more than I can say."

Wuerfel continued, "Darrell gave us so many moments of laughter, connection, and life.
May the memories you hold of him stay close to your heart, as mine will stay with me forever. From our family to yours, thank you. We will make an announcement in the future, for those who wish to participate in a service."

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Related: Storage Wars Star Dan Dotson Speaks Out on Darrell Sheets’ Death in Heartfelt Tribute

In the comments, Wuerfel's followers showered her with prayers and condolences. One Instagram user wrote, "I’m so sorry, Kimber. Darrell was a kind and gentle soul ❤️."

Someone else shared, "You are always in our prayers. We love you, and we loved Darrell. We are all here for you. Love you so much, momma K. 🙌🩷."

A different follower echoed, "I’m so sorry for your loss. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. ❤️."

Yet another fan pointed out, "Will be missed.....he left a mark on all who watched him."

Meanwhile, yet another Instagram user commented, "This one hurts, may God protect you and your family! He’s in a better place. RIP DARRELL! ❤️😇."

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available 24 hours a day through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Next: Storage Wars Star Brandi Passante Breaks Silence on Darrell Sheets’ Death With Emotional Tribute

Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie‘s mother, Nancy Guthrie, is still missing three months following her Feb. 1 abduction in Tucson, Ariz. And recently, two retired FBI profilers weighed in on the possibility of a stalking motive, as investigators comb through 30,000 tips.

On Thursday, April 30, NewsNation Senior National Correspondent Brian Entin spoke with former FBI supervisory special agent Jim Clemente, who was also a profiler, as well as James Fitzgerald, also a former FBI profiler, about the 84-year-old's missing case.

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Both Clemente and Fitzgerald said on Brian Entin Investigates that they think Nancy's kidnapping is connected to Savannah. Also, Fitzgerald and a third FBI profiler, Raymond Carr, speculated that the perpetrator is a stalker who wasn't able to directly access the NBC morning show host, so they took her mom instead.

“This has something to do with Savannah on a stalking-type scenario,” Fitzgerald said, stressing that investigators need to look at all correspondence that Savannah received in the past at least five years. This includes emails and social media messages after Nancy appeared on Today.

Carr agreed, explaining, of the perpetrator, "He didn't just wake up one morning and say, 'This is what I'm going to do.' It started out much, much simpler, much less dangerous. It was more of like a stalking type of thing. And there's a of celebrities that have issues like that where they're stalked, and then it just escalates over time."

Related: Nancy Guthrie Update: FBI Releases New Message for the First Time in Weeks

Additionally, Fitzgerald said that he doesn't consider the ransom demand legitimate. "I think it was opportunists taking advantage of a situation, from a very wealthy woman, through Savannah," he explained. He noted that the perpetrator's motive appears to be psychologically-driven—not for money—as no note was left at Nancy's home the night she was abducted.

A source also told NewsNation on May 1 that investigators in Nancy's case are combing through more than 30,000 tips. However, the unnamed person close to the investigation also said that the case has stalled, with few of the leads being actionable at this time.

Nancy was last seen at her Catalina Foothills home on the evening of Jan. 31, with her family reporting her missing on Feb. 1. Despite the thousands of tips and more than $1 million in reward money, no suspect has been named in the case, as of writing.

Next: Nancy Guthrie Update: Sheriff’s Department Issues Renewed Plea 3 Months After Abduction

Phone calls are something of a dying art. You can blame texting, email, social media messengers and generational preferences. But one psychologist says phone calls absolutely still have their place in communication with friends, colleagues and family members.

"Texting and voice notes are great because there’s no pressure to reply right away," explains  Dr. Brittney Pearson, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist with Thriveworks. "However, a phone call offers a level of intimacy and presence that a screen just can't replicate."

Walking while you talk—whether the call is for work or to connect with a friend—is one way to get more movement into your day. That's healthy. Yet, some people can never sit still during phone conversations. Is that habit a problem? The answer is nuanced. But Dr. Pearson says it's a good idea to consider how our habits can clue us in to traits we have.

"Habits are the specific behaviors we learn and consciously repeat, whereas traits are the biological 'settings' we are born with," she reports. "In most cases, our traits drive our habits."

For instance, people with certain characteristics might pace around during phone calls to manage their emotions. Which traits? Dr. Pearson answers those questions and provides nine traits you may have if you can never sit still during phone conversations. She also discusses how to remain still during calls.

Related: Psychologist Reveals That People Who Write Out To-Do Lists by Hand Share These 7 Unique Traits

Is It 'Normal' Not To Sit Still During Phone Calls?

The Good Brigade/Getty Images

"Normal" is such a relative term. Not being able to sit still during phone calls can indicate many things, including neurodivergence, mental health concerns or harmless personality traits.

"Restlessness often points to specific clinical concerns," Dr. Pearson explains. "These behaviors may stem from under-stimulation related to ADHD, or they could be a symptom of anxiety. Additionally, restlessness can manifest as psychomotor agitation—a condition frequently associated with manic episodes or depression."

She adds that habits, like an inability to sit still during phone conversations, can mirror our traits. But your first guess may not be the correct one.

"For instance, pacing during a call could indicate neuroticism, but it could just as easily signal high extraversion," she shares.

Dr. Pearson also says it's crucial to consider the environment in which you're taking a call.

"High-stress settings can trigger habits like pacing or fidgeting in almost anyone," she points out. "In these cases, the behavior reflects the situation rather than the person's inherent character."

Also, some habits are more fleeting than others and may stem from temporary psychological states.

"Someone experiencing burnout might compulsively doomscroll, even if they are naturally extroverted and active," she says.

Related: Psychologist Says Overthinking at Night Is Closely Linked to These 9 Traits

9 Common Traits of People Who Can Never Sit Still During Phone Calls, Psychologist Says1. High neuroticism

Dr. Pearson shares that phone calls can be super stressful for people with high neuroticism, a trait characterized by a tendency to experience negative emotions, like anger and self-doubt.

"The individual often feels intense internal pressure to 'perform,' and constant movement helps release that built-up anxious energy," she says.

2. Highly-efficient

Highly conscientious people are often the "optimizers" of the world. Walking and talking at the same time comes naturally to them, and they thrive when they can habit stack.

"Individuals high in conscientiousness often view moving during a call as an efficient use of time," Dr. Pearson reports. "In this context, movement satisfies an internal drive for constant productivity and output."

3. Excellent problem-solvers

Highly conscientious people are also often expert problem-solvers—and therefore may move during calls.

"High conscientiousness is also linked to goal-directed behavior," Dr. Pearson explains. "In this framework, moving during a call reflects active, purposeful engagement in the discussion."

4. Low impulse control

On the flip side, people may not sit still during phone conversations if they have low conscientiousness or poor impulse control.

"If an individual struggles with impulse control, their threshold for inhibitory control is low," Dr. Pearson explains. "Movement serves as a healthy release of internal tension; for these individuals, physical action is released rather than suppressed."

5. Sensing-perceiving

For the uninitiated: "Those with a sensing-perceiving preference often process information through physical action," Dr. Pearson says.

She shares that moving while chatting can improve focus and engagement rather than distract people who identify with this personality type.

6. Extraversion

Dr. Pearson notes that extroverts—sometimes spelled extraverts—frequently crave sensory feedback.

"Pacing or walking during a call provides the sensory input necessary to maintain focus during the conversation," she explains.

Related: 9 Subtle Signs That You Might Be an Ambivert, According to Psychologists

7. Highly agreeable

Dr. Pearson notes that highly agreeable people can use pacing as a "displacement activity" while chatting on the phone.

"This occurs when an individual feels anxious about how they are being perceived," she notes. "It is important to note that in this specific context, pacing reflects situational concern for others rather than an inherently anxious personality."

8. External processors

Dr. Pearson shares that external processors like to think out loud and use other strategies to process information, such as movement.

"For these individuals, both speech and movement are outward expressions of their internal thought patterns," she says.

9. Active-minded

Dr. Pearson shares that people who prefer to move during phone calls crave novelty and may adore creative pursuits. There's a lot going on in their minds, but movement serves a surprising purpose for them.

"For them, movement can act as a grounding activity that keeps their mind from wandering, allowing them to remain focused on the task at hand," she explains.

Related: Psychologist Says the Most ‘Magnetic’ People in a Room Actually Do These 9 Things

How To Sit Still During Phone Calls: 3 Tactics To Try1. Incorporate mindfulness

Dr. Pearson says mindfulness aims to anchor yourself—brain included—in the present.

"It encourages meaningful observation without immediate reaction," she states. "Using this practice, an individual observes the urge to move as a sensation rather than automatically acting on it."

2. Scale down movements

Dr. Pearson says that external processors can scale back large movements into "micromovements," or small, intentional movements, like posture shifts.

"'Micro-movements' can satisfy the physical urge to move while keeping it contained," she advises. "This can be achieved by using a fidget device or simply pressing your feet together."

3. Use relaxation techniques

Dr. Pearson shares that muscle tension often drives restlessness.

"Two effective ways to reduce it are progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) and box breathing," she explains. "PMR involves systematically tensing and then releasing different muscle groups throughout the body to physically let go of stress."

Meanwhile, Dr. Pearson notes that box breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, setting off a relaxation response.

"To practice, follow a simple four-second cycle: inhale for four seconds, hold for four, exhale for four and hold for four before the next breath," she suggests.

Related: Psychologist Says if You Instantly Forget Someone’s Name After Meeting Them, You Likely Have These 9 Traits

Final Takeaways

Habits, like moving during phone conversations, can clue us into our traits, mental well-being and even brain type. Here's what to know.

• There are many reasons why you might not sit still during phone calls. People with ADHD or high stress may not sit still during phone conversations. Sometimes, this habit is fleeting, such as when you are currently experiencing a stressful season of life. Other times, the habit is more consistent throughout your life.
• People who can't sit still during phone calls often share common traits. For instance, they're often highly efficient, have poor impulse control and need to process information externally.
• You can work on the habit. If you think the habit of moving during phone calls is holding you back, you can learn to sit more still. "Practical ways to promote stillness while maintaining engagement in a phone conversation," Dr. Pearson explains. "These strategies include relaxation exercises such as progressive muscle relaxation and box breathing, scaling down movements, and mindfulness practices."

Up Next:

Related: Psychologist Says if You Clean While You Cook, You Likely Have These 7 Traits

Source:

• Dr. Brittney Pearson, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist with Thriveworks.

Some of the best songwriters are master storytellers, and it just so happens that many of the most legendary songs of all time tell true stories. Take Dan Fogelberg's heartbreaking hit "Same Old Lang Syne." Why is it practically impossible to listen to the tune without crying? Probably because it was inspired by an emotional moment from Fogelberg's real life.

Released as a single in 1980 and included on his 1981 album The Innocent Age, "Same Old Lang Syne" tells the poignant, relatable tale of a man who runs into his high school sweetheart at the grocery store on Christmas Eve.

"Met my old lover in the grocery store / The snow was falling Christmas Eve / I stole behind her in the frozen foods / And I touched her on the sleeve"

What starts out as an awkward encounter turns into something more.

"She didn't recognize the face at first / But then her eyes flew open wide / She went to hug me, and she spilled her purse / And we laughed until we cried

We took her groceries to the checkout stand / The food was totaled up and bagged / We stood there lost in our embarrassment / As the conversation dragged"

In the next verses, the former flames decide to go out for a drink, but since they can't find any open bars, they take a six-pack of beer to the woman's car and catch up (he's now a touring musician, she's married to an architect).

Finally, after drinking toasts to "innocence" and "time," the two part ways.

"The beer was empty, and our tongues were tired / And running out of things to say / She gave a kiss to me as I got out / And I watched her drive away

Just for a moment, I was back at school / And felt that old familiar pain / And as I turned to make my way back home / The snow turned into rain"

As Fogelberg explained years later in a Q&A on his website, "Same Old Lang Syne" was indeed autobiographical.

"In 1975 or 76 I was home in Peoria, Illinois visiting my family for Christmas. I went to a convenience store to pick up some whipping cream to make Irish coffees with, and quite unexpectedly ran into an old high school girlfriend. The rest of the song tells the story," Fogelberg said.

Dan Fogelberg's high school sweetheart paid tribute to his memory after his death

After Fogelberg's death from prostate cancer in 2007, the woman who inspired the song, Jill Anderson, told her side of the story to the Peoria Journal Star.

As she explained, she didn't speak up about her identity before Fogelberg's passing because he was a very private person; she also didn't want to cause any trouble in his marriage.

"I don't want this to overshadow Dan," she said. "When I heard the news that he died, I was very sad."

The couple dated when they were both attending Woodruff High School in Illinois, when they would go for drives and listen to music. Fogelberg wrote Anderson poetry ("I still have some of those in a drawer at home," she said). They broke up after going to separate colleges, but that Christmas Eve reunion really did happen, Anderson confirmed.

"It's a memory that I cherish," she said.

Decades later, countless Fogelberg fans are still cherishing the same memory.

Related: 1972 No. 1 Hit Ranked Among 'Top Soft Rock Songs' of All Time Hit the Charts Twice

In 1972, a struggling rock band was on the verge of breaking up until one song written by one of music's greatest songwriters changed everything.

"All the Young Dudes," performed by Mott the Hoople, has since been ranked among the greatest songs of all time by Rolling Stone, but its story begins at a moment of uncertainty.

At the time, the band was ready to call it quits after a series of commercial disappointments. That’s when David Bowie stepped in. A fan of the group, Bowie offered them a song he had written, one that would ultimately redefine their career.

"Who else at that stage in his career would start giving away time and songs to other people?" singer Ian Hunter told The Guardian. "Which he did with me and Mott, Lou Reed, Iggy. How did he find the time for that? He was extremely ambitious, but still found time to do other things as well, which I think is quite remarkable.”

"All the Young Dudes" became an instant success, giving Mott the Hoople their biggest hit and breathing new life into the band. Its blend of glam rock energy and anthemic chorus resonated with a generation, quickly turning it into a cultural touchstone.

The song's lyrics captured the spirit of youth and rebellion, while also reflecting the shifting musical landscape of the early 1970s. With Bowie's influence and the band’s distinctive sound, the track helped usher in the glam rock era and positioned Mott the Hoople at the center of it.

"I knew that I could sing it, and I knew it was a hit," Hunter told Billboard. "It was on a different level."

More than just a hit, the song became a lifeline, proving that timing, collaboration and the right material can completely change an artist's trajectory.

Over the decades, "All the Young Dudes" has remained a staple of classic rock, celebrated for both its sound and its story. Its inclusion among the greatest songs of all time reflects not only its musical impact, but also its role in one of rock’s most famous turning points.

What began as a last chance became a defining moment turning a band on the brink into one with a lasting legacy.

Related: '70s Rock Band Released First No. 1 Hit Song 19 Years After Forming

"Although we've come to the end of the road, still I can't let go."

On a summer day in June 1992, "End of the Road" by the American R&B group Boyz II Men was released as a single for the film Boomerang. Written by Babyface, Antonio L.A. Reid and Daryl Simmons, the ballad has been defined by its heart-wrenching lyrics about holding on, heartbreak and desperate love.

The track was released after their debut album, Cooleyhighharmony, had been put out. Three weeks after its release, it landed a spot on the Billboard Hot 100. By the end of summer, "End of the Road" was the No. 1 song and held its spot on the chart for 13 weeks before "How Do You Talk to an Angel" by the Heights took its place in mid-November.

In addition, the song was placed on Billboard Year-End Hot 100 Singles of 1992, and was ranked as the music publication's sixth most successful song of the decade 1990–1999.

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"End of the Road" was originally intended to be kept by Babyface for himself, but after hearing the group's version, he knew theirs was superior. In a podcast episode that is hosted by Boyz II Men member Shawn Stockman, he asked the producer why he decided to give away the hit.

"When I finished the song, I thought it was really good, and I thought, 'Damn, I wanna keep this one for myself,' and I was really considering it," Babyface, whose real name is Kenneth Brian Edmonds, admitted. "I listened to [Boys II Men] and I thought that it would be fun to do it with you guys. What I didn't know, was how good you really were."

"End of the Road" is featured during the climactic emotional scenes near the end of the romcom when Marcus (Eddie Murphy) realizes he truly loves Jacqueline (Robin Givens) and subsequently faces the heartbreak of their relationship ending. Boomerang follows Marcus Graham, a cocky and womanizing advertising executive who gets a taste of his own medicine when his new boss, Jacqueline, treats him with the indifference he shows women.

American group Boyz II Men, winners of the award for Favorite Soul/R&B New Artist at the American Music Awards in Los Angeles, California, 27th January 1992.

Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images

Formed in 1985, Boyz II Men is an American vocal harmony group from Philadelphia that consisted of Stockman, Michael McCary, Nathan Morris and Wanyá Morris. McCary, the group's bassist, left in 2003 due to health issues. The group first saw commercial success with the release of Cooleyhighharmony in 1991, which included the singles "Motownphilly" and "It's So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday," both of which peaked within the top five of the Billboard Hot 100.

So far, the R&B trio has released 14 studio albums, with their most recent being Under the Streetlight in 2017. Winning four Grammy Awards in the 1990s, their discography is frequently cited as influential on the R&B genre, and Boyz II Men have been listed among the greatest doo-wop vocal groups of all time.

"End of the Road" and Boyz II Men's entire discography can be listened to on streaming platforms. Meanwhile, Boomerang is available to stream on Netflix, Philo, MGM+ and Paramount+ Essential, as well as rented or purchased via Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango At Home.

Related: Iconic '90s Rock Band Announces Update 20 Years After Release of Eighth Studio Album

Ali Hazelwood readers aren’t used to waiting very long for new books, but with no official announcements about her next novel, fans have been clamoring for information. Thankfully, the New York Times bestselling author has finally provided a promising update.

In a wide-ranging Harper’s Bazaar interview published on Friday, May 1, Hazelwood revealed that she finished writing a full-length novel in January, though the project was initially intended to be a novella. She also teased that the book is not paranormal and includes a doctor character.

“Whenever I have something ready, I am very eager to share it with people. Like, I am currently fighting for my life to be able to release this full-length novel that I told you about this year,” she elaborated. “I understand, I also don’t like sitting on things, and I just like to share them. Maybe it’s from my fan fiction days.”

Hazelwood has become known for releasing books back to back without large gaps in her publishing timeline. For instance, in 2025 alone, she dropped her novels Deep End in February, Problematic Summer Romance in May and Mate in October as well as novellas Hot for Slayer in September and Bound in November.

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While her fans have come to expect rapid-fire releases from her, Hazelwood denied feeling anxiety about sticking to her previous pattern.

“There are so many amazing books coming out,” she said, pointing to Big Girl Blitz by Danielle Allen as one of her recent favorites. “There’s so much good stuff. So I don’t really feel that because the romance industry is such a rich—and I don’t mean rich monetarily, even though it is also very lucrative—it’s such an amazing place right now where there is so much that is being written by so many authors.”

As for what’s next for her career, Hazelwood has plenty of inspiration to keep her writing.

“I have so many ideas,” she shared. “There is always something happening where the thing that I want to write the most at that time, I do not have time to write because I have committed to something else. But there are so many book ideas that I just really, really want to write.”

Hazelwood dropped a few extra breadcrumbs about potential future stories, teasing that she’s considered centering projects around CeCe from Love, Theoretically and Pen from Deep End.

“And then I have something that is a little bit of a genre switch for me,” she added. “It’s always gonna be a romance. I don’t talk about it, just because it feels so far right now that it might never happen. All I want is to be able to actually write, right?”

As for whether any of her books will receive a true sequel rather than interconnected standalones based in the same worlds, she hinted, “Let’s revisit this in a while. I may have news? I don’t know. Let’s revisit this. I think we’ll see.”

In the meantime, fans can look forward to Hazelwood’s upcoming novella audiobook, Unbound, coming to Spotify on July 14. Plus, the film adaptation of The Love Hypothesis—which she’s already seen and “loved”—is expected to be released later this year.

Over the past few years, it’s felt like everything has gotten way more expensive than our incomes can keep up with. You may want to supplement your Social Security benefits with a job, but doing so could mean paying up to a 50% tax on your earnings. 

When Can You Apply For Social Security

Full retirement age for anyone born after 1960 is now 67. If you aren’t sure what your full retirement age is, you can check it for free on the Social Security Administration’s website. While full retirement may be a few years down the road, you can apply to take benefits as early as age 62. If you do, be careful with other sources of income.

Related: 3 Worst States To Retire In If You Plan On Living On Social Security Alone

How Much You Can Earn

Your birthday determines the annual earnings limit for your SS benefits. The annual earnings limit does NOT include your Social Security benefits, but going over that amount will affect what you take home. For every $2 in wages you make over the limit, the SSA will deduct $1 from your earnings. 

Let’s say your monthly Social Security check at age 62 is $ 2,000. That’s $24,000 a year. In addition to that, let’s assume you can earn another $24,000 a year before your benefits are impacted. That gives you about $ 4,000/mo in income. 

Related: You Can Live Like a Millionaire on a $50,000 Social Security Budget in These 5 States

The Additional Tax

Now, let’s say your job actually earns $ 3,000 a month, which is $ 1,000 over your limit. In that case, you’ll still be able to take home your $3000 a month from your job. However, because you earned $1,000 over your limit, your Social Security check will be $ 1,500 instead of $ 2,000. They’ve reduced your payment by $1 for every $2 you earned over your limit. Since your extra earnings totaled $1000, your check was reduced by $500. 

Your total monthly take-home is $4,500, but the hits keep coming! That $3,000/mo in income you bring home is now taxed at 50% instead of the lower rate (the highest being 37%) that income is taxed for people not collecting benefits. Since Social Security benefits are taxed as well, you’re actually earning less than if you’d stayed under your annual earnings limit. 

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The Best Choice For You

If you’re 62 and considering taking early benefits, but can’t survive on those alone, you may want to consider holding off. Waiting until you hit 70 means you could actually receive more benefits, and you won’t have to worry about the annual earnings limit or extra tax. It may mean a few more years of work, but much less stress after that. 

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There are watches, and then there are Michael Kors watches that take any outfit to the next stylish level. They’re chic, fashion-forward, and total head turners, and they’re perfect for pairing with your own ensembles, or for luxe gift giving for Mother’s Day and beyond. We love gold watches year-round, but these three Michael Kors watches are especially perfect for spring and summer.

They’re all on sale for less than $250 on ShopHQ, and you can get them all with free shipping through May 3. Keep reading to see some of our favorites.

Michael Kors Women's 19mm Lexington Quartz Diamond Cut Bezel Leather Strap Watch, $175 (was $200) at ShopHQ

Courtesy of ShopHQ

The sleek white and gold Michael Kors Women's Lexington watch is a stunner, and it’s on sale for $175 right now. Its 10 millimeter white leather strap is slim and lightweight, and fits wrists up to seven inches. It’s teamed with a petite 19 millimeter round, stainless steel, gold case, topped with a gorgeous diamond cut bezel that adds a subtle sparkle. The case surrounds a chic white dial that mixes gold Roman numeral and bar hour markers, with small minute markers around the outer edge and a gold ‘Michael Kors’ for added detail.

Related: Michael Kors’ Stylish Crossbody Is Perfect for Spring, and It’s Nearly 60% Off

Michael Kors Women's 21mm Maude Quartz Crystal Pave Bracelet Watch, $225 (was $245) at ShopHQ

Courtesy of ShopHQ

The Maude Quartz Crystal Pave Bracelet Watch is dazzling, and it’s on sale for $225. The sparkling timepiece has a small 21 millimeter oval stainless steel case with an elegant crystal pavé bezel.

The slender 6 millimeter cuff-style bracelet has a sleek finish and an open, slip-on design that fits wrists up to seven inches. This one is available in gold and silver colorways, and you can take it from day to night with casual or cocktail looks. Keep in mind that it only has 30 meters of water resistance, so it can handle light splashes but not submersion. 

Michael Kors Women's 20mm Darrington Quartz Goldtone Leather Strap Watch, $199 (was $250) at ShopHQ

Courtesy of ShopHQ

The 20mm Darrington Quartz Goldtone Overlay Leather Strap Watch stands out with its compact 20mm square case, finished in a vibrant gold hue that gives it a vintage vibe. Its crisp white dial is topped with a white leather strap with gold-tone hardware accents that tie into the square case. The case comes complete with a gold overlay, and a mineral crystal helps protect the face from everyday wear.  

Inside, a quartz movement keeps time reliably, and the white dial paired with a gold Michael Kors logo adds a classic touch. Similar to the other two watches, its slim 12mm strap only fits wrists up to seven inches, and its delicate on the wrist and lightweight, making it comfortable for all-day wear. With 50 meters of water resistance, it’s built to handle light splashes, but try not to submerge it. It’s the perfect watch for daytime ensembles. 

Shop More Deals

• Michael Kors Women's 42mm Slim Runway Quartz Goldtone Bracelet Watch, $175 (was $200) at ShopHQ
• Michael Kors Women's 26mm Essex Quartz Rectangle Two-Tone Bracelet Watch, $185 (was $200) at ShopHQ
• Michael Kors Women's 21mm Maude Quartz Croco Embossed Leather Strap Watch, $150 (was $165) at ShopHQ

These stunning Michael Kors watches are the perfect gift for yourself or for your mother this Mother’s Day. Grab one while they’re still on sale! 

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