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Previously, The New York Times made quite a few headlines when their list of the best thrillers of the 21st century.

Drawing on the opinions of many of the publication’s most talented critics, the list was met with an unsurprisingly polarized response from readers, many of whom were quick to add their own titles to the list of candidates worth considering.

To counterbalance the list from their critics, The New York Times has just unveiled a brand-new readers’ choice list for the best thrillers of the 21st century, utilizing readers’ votes and collective feedback.

At the very top of the list, readers selected Stieg Larsson’s 2005 thriller, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, translated from original Swedish by Reg Keeland.

The first official novel in Larsson’s posthumous Millennium series, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo follows a struggling magazine writer and a genius computer hacker who work together to solve the decades-old mystery of a missing young woman.

Providing the basis for a 2009 film and a subsequent 2011 Hollywood adaptation starring Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo was incredibly well-received at the time of its release, kicking the Millennium series off in grand fashion.

“Larsson’s Millennium juggernaut began here, with one of the more indelible literary creations of the 21st century: a goth-punk Swedish computer hacker named Lisbeth Salander whose technical brilliance is matched only by her antisocial tendencies,” The New York Times wrote in their description of the book.

“She’s an unlikely match for the middle-aged journalist Mikael Blomkvist, but when the pair are thrown together to research the long-ago disappearance of a wealthy industrialist’s great-niece, the cold case becomes a hot pursuit of truth and justice in a vast, spidery conspiracy,” the outlet continued.

Other books included in the readers’ choice of top 10 thrillers were Gone Girl, Mystic River, Slow Horses, Never Let Me Go, In the Woods, No Country for Old Men, Wolf Hall, The Constant Gardener and The Road.

In 1976, Linda Ronstadt was already one of the biggest stars in music when she put a song by a largely unknown 24-year-old songwriter at the end of her new album, Hasten Down the Wind.

The song was “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me,” written by Karla Bonoff, who wouldn’t release her own debut album until the following year.

Ronstadt didn’t stop with just one Bonoff song, either. Hasten Down the Wind included three of them: “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me,” “Lose Again” and “If He’s Ever Near.”

It was a remarkable showcase for a songwriter who had yet to establish herself as a solo recording artist, and it helped put Bonoff on the map.

Linda Ronstadt Wanted to Hear More From Karla Bonoff

Bonoff had already spent years trying to break into the Southern California music scene. She had begun writing songs as a teenager and later formed Bryndle with Kenny Edwards, Wendy Waldman and Andrew Gold. The group recorded an album for A&M Records, but it went unreleased. The connection to Ronstadt came through Edwards and Gold, who went on to play in her band.

According to Bonoff’s official biography, she played Ronstadt a demo of “Lose Again.” Ronstadt liked what she heard.

“Hey, you know that’s real good,” Bonoff recalled Ronstadt telling her. “What else have you got?”

One of the other songs Bonoff had was “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me.”

The haunting ballad explores loneliness and the difference between genuine emotional intimacy and simply having another person there to fill the void. Ronstadt recorded it at the Sound Factory in Hollywood in March 1976 with longtime producer Peter Asher.

There’s another fascinating wrinkle to the song’s origin: Bonoff told TIME in 1978 that she wrote “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me” after watching afternoon soap operas. In a rare burst of speed for a songwriter who described writing as difficult, she said the lyrics took only about 20 minutes.

Related: 1975 Hit, Written by Neil Young for an Album He Shelved, Became a Top 5 Hit for a ‘Dynamite’ Young Singer

Ronstadt Had a Gift for Finding Songs

Ronstadt’s decision to record so much of Bonoff’s material was part of a talent that her fellow musicians would later single out for praise.

In the 2019 documentary Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice, Bonoff discussed hearing what Ronstadt had done with “Lose Again,” which transformed her understated song into something much bigger.

“I couldn’t sing it like that,” Bonoff said.

Dolly Parton went even further in describing Ronstadt’s ability as an interpreter.

“Linda has the ability to hear a song and claim it,” Parton said in the documentary.

That ability was particularly important in Bonoff’s case. Ronstadt wasn’t reaching back for an established hit when she recorded “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me.” She was putting her considerable star power behind a songwriter most listeners didn’t yet know.

‘Someone to Lay Down Beside Me’ Became a Linda Ronstadt Single

Hasten Down the Wind was released in August 1976, with “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me” closing the album. The song was subsequently released as a single that November, backed with Ronstadt’s rendition of Patsy Cline’s “Crazy.”

Billboard selected it as one of its Top Single Picks, calling it an “unusual choice for a Ronstadt single” and describing the recording as a “dark hued ballad with deeply provocative lyrics.”

It didn’t become one of Ronstadt’s blockbuster singles, peaking at No. 42 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 38 on the Adult Contemporary chart.

But for Bonoff, Ronstadt’s embrace of her songs was arguably more consequential than another Top 40 hit would have been for the already-established superstar.

Bonoff signed with Columbia Records as a solo artist in 1977. Her self-titled debut included her own recordings of all three songs Ronstadt had introduced on Hasten Down the Wind: “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me,” “Lose Again” and “If He’s Ever Near.”

In a 2026 interview, when asked what she likes best about what she does, Bonoff told the Ponte Vedra Recorder, “The fact that I can make a living making music and get to do what I love,” adding, “It’s more about gratitude at this point.”

Ronstadt and Bonoff’s musical connection didn’t end there. More than a decade later, Ronstadt recorded another Bonoff composition, “All My Life,” as a duet with Aaron Neville. The recording earned the pair the Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.

By then, Bonoff was no longer the unknown young songwriter whose demos had found their way to one of the biggest singers of the 1970s.

And “Someone to Lay Down Beside Me” had helped introduce her.

Related: Folk-Rock Icon, 79, Pens Emotional Letter to Fans For Milestone Reissue

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If you’re on the hunt for a cozy addition to your home, Amazon has an option that you’ll definitely want to check out. The Exclusivo Mezcla Fleece Throw Blanket is perfect for snuggling up on the couch or adding a layer of warmth to your bed this fall, and it’s selling for a steal of a price on Amazon! 

You can currently snag this throw blanket (measuring 50 inches by 70 inches) for as low as $9 by opting for the classic pink option. There are 17 other color varieties available — including gray, blue, black, white, and lilac. They’re all discounted to $15 or less right now, so you’ll snag a great deal no matter what. Made from soft jacquard flannel, this blanket is designed to keep you comfy throughout the year. 

Exclusivo Mezcla Fleece Throw Blanket, From $9 (was $10) at Amazon

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With over 8,000 five-star reviews, it’s evident that this is a popular pick with Amazon shoppers. This blanket is brushed to give it that extra soft and lightweight feel. In addition to the throw size, you can also find it in twin, queen, and king sizes.

Shoppers said they love this blanket for its softness and cozy feel. “Luxurious comfort on a grand scale,” one customer wrote. “Its soft flannel fleece texture provides an indulgent, skin-friendly touch. The blanket is lightweight, striking the perfect balance for year-round use.”

Additionally, many customers mentioned how lightweight the throw is while still managing to keep them warm. Reviewers also noted that the blanket is a great way to brighten up home decor thanks to its stylish design and wide array of color options that can mesh well with any space.

“Absolutely beautiful blanket! Not too thick. Not too thin. The color is spot on,” a customer commented.

Another bonus? The blanket is machine washable and can go in the dryer. These features make the upkeep extremely simple.

Related: Amazon’s ‘Versatile’ $13 Cotton Cardigan Offers ‘Breathable Coverage’ for Summer-to-Fall Weather

This $9 Amazon throw blanket is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for something comfy, cute, and budget-friendly. Its attractive price and great design make it a must-have for anyone looking to up their cozy game. Don’t miss your chance to score it on sale ahead of fall! For under $10, you might even be tempted to stock up on multiple colors.

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.

Tonight, The Wall hits a major milestone: 100 episodes. It’s been almost 10 years since the hit NBC game show first arrived on our screens, and in the near-decade since, we’ve seen hundreds of ordinary people drop thousands of balls, all in the pursuit of millions of dollars. And it’s an accomplishment that host Chris Hardwick does not take lightly.

“To get to do more than one season of any show is a really special thing,” he tells Parade in an exclusive interview. “But to just know that we’ve gotten to do it for you know 10 years and and over 100 episodes, it’s crazy. When I was growing up watching game shows or any television, 100 episodes meant, ‘Oh that show is like sticking around.’ It’s been weirdly emotional for me.”

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Hardwick, of course, is no stranger to a long-running success. The 54-year-old hosted Talking Dead for over a decade, which helped popularize the on-air aftershow. And his work on the comedy show @midnight hit a whopping 600 total episodes. It was while he was working on both of these series that he was approached about The Wall — an offer that he almost refused due to his schedule. But Hardwick credits a meeting with the show’s creator, Andrew Glassman, with getting him on board.

“He had basically mocked up the wall on a screen not much bigger than [a typical] wall,” he recounts. “The wall was like a computer graphic, and then there were colored balls that would bounce down. And we did it, and I was like, ‘Oh my god, this is really fun.'”

What ultimately drew Hardwick onto The Wall, however, wasn’t the thought of getting to create the world’s most chaotic game of Plinko, but to instead highlight relationships in a very pressurized situation.

“All the teams that came on were just these shining beautiful examples of humanity,” he explains. “I realized right away, ‘Oh my gosh, this isn’t just a flashy game show with big dollar amounts. It’s a really special human show.”

Indeed, across 100 episodes, The Wall has shone a spotlight on a variety of relationships, from longtime married couples to siblings to parents and children. But, starting in the second round, the pair is separated, with one person going into isolation to answer trivia questions, as well as decide for both of them if they’ll take the contract Hardwick opens them, or go for the big prize. And the host says that element of isolation is crucial to the success of The Wall.

Related: Two ‘Seinfeld’ Stars Are Competing on a Classic Game Show This Summer

“We always have our devices usually no more than a foot and a half from us, right?” he says. “So all of a sudden, you’re in a situation where you might reflexively reach for your phone that’s not there. We’re just so used to having these external hard drives that have the sum total of human knowledge and history at all times. And all of a sudden you’re just in a room where you can’t ask anyone; you’re just stuck with your own brain. And so to be in that situation again, where you don’t have that security blanket, must be incredibly surreal now more than ever.”

When asked about his favorite memory on the set of The Wall, Hardwick is hard-pressed to pick just one, considering the myriad people he’s interacted with on the set over the course of a decade.

“It’s a live concert where I am,” he explains. “I’m experiencing it in real time, and I’ve spent hours with them. So many of these moments just imprint on me are just talking to people, just having regular conversations with them about restaurants in their hometown, trying to get to know them, trying to figure out what makes them tick. People who’ve been lifelong givers, people who are selfless, how they thrive in the face of adversity. So there are like an infinite number of moments to me that I collect, lessons that I try to remember. Because everyone who comes on is just some shining example of humanity.”

One particularly luminescent example came in an episode from earlier this year. Steven Hardeman, an off-duty police officer who helped out during the events of 9/11, and his son Seth Hardeman competed in the Season 6 premiere. After ripping up the contract, the two went on to win over $1.6 million on the wall.

“The son was answering the trivia, and he was just convinced that he didn’t do a good job,” Hardwick recounts. “And I think he got most of the questions right. And [I loved] being able to tell him, ‘Hey, trust your gut, because you knew exactly what you were doing.” It was just that lesson of how easy it is for us to second-guess ourselves and talk ourselves out of things, and just learning that moment of just being present. It was just a joyful experience because he got to see how good he was, and he crushed it, and he they went home with all this money. It was just wonderful to be there for that, and also to remind ourselves of these moments when we can get down on ourselves, or we can second-guess, or we can have negative self-talk, give yourself a break, man! You’re doing okay.”

Given The Wall has reached 100 episodes, with no endpoint in sight, there’s no second-guessing the success of the concept. And, with Hardwick lending his skills as the host, no matter who enters the fray, it’s sure to be a ball.

Related: NBC Sets Fall Premiere Dates for 2026-27 Season, Including OneChicago Shows, ‘The Voice’ and ‘The Traitors: New Blood’

Martha Stewart is taking her domestic talents and sharp tongue to Netflix.

Stewart, 85, a legendary domestic goddess and entrepreneur, catapulted her business acumen into life as a Martha Stewart Living tycoon. On the heels of her successful documentary, Martha, the star is headed to Netflix with her podcast and a TV series.

Entertainment Weekly reported that The Martha Stewart Podcast will appear on Netflix starting Wednesday, Aug. 26 as part of iHeartMedia and Netflix’s video podcast partnership. The series will also be an audio podcast distributed by iHeartPodcasts, with video episodes available to watch on Netflix. But that’s not the only new venture.

Martha Cooks will hit Netflix on Tuesday, Aug. 25. The first guest will be Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, who is married to tennis legend Serena Williams. Upcoming guests include Harlan Coben and Benny Blanco.

“I’m delighted to bring my podcast to Netflix, and with that, introduce the medium of video to the series,” Stewart said in a statement, EW continued. “Netflix is the perfect partner to share and amplify the thoughtful and informative conversations the show is known for with an even greater audience.”

Kristina Bumphrey / Getty Images

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Stewart Just Threw Shade at Meghan Markle’s Netflix Series

The announcement of Stewart’s Netflix series comes right after Stewart threw shade at Meghan Markle‘s series. Last summer, Stewart shared her thoughts on Markle during another interview.

“Meghan, I don’t really know very well, and I hope she knows what she’s talking about,” Martha told Yahoo Lifestyle. “Authenticity, to me, is everything, and to be authentic and knowledgeable about your subject matter is extremely important.”

Still, Stewart made it clear that there’s plenty of space in the market for her successors.

“I don’t mind. Good luck,” she noted.

Markle and Prince Harry recently announced they would be moving back to the United Kingdom.

Stewart’s Documentary Made Waves on Netflix

The news of Stewart’s partnership with Netflix isn’t surprising, considering the success of R.J. Cutler‘s Emmy-nominated 2024 documentary, Martha. The doc chronicled Stewart’s childhood, Wall Street career, divorce, and prison term. To see the trailer for the documentary, watch below.

Related: Martha Stewart Is Throwing Shade at Meghan Markle’s Cooking Show

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If you’ve been looking for an easy way to corral bulky bedding or piles of loose clothing to get your home in order ahead of a big move, or even just a new season, the Velvetsure Storage Tote Bag Set is a great choice that also happens to be a steal. Right now, the 24-gallon six-pack of bags is marked down in every color, marked down to just $30 on Amazon.

The set is available in nine single color packs, including black, blue, pink, teal, silver, aquamarine, and semi-transparent, as well as a multicolor option. Additionally, there are other size and quantity options (such as a 24-gallon 12-pack and a larger 40-gallon six-pack) if you need extra space.

Velvetsure Storage Tote Bag Set, From $30 (was $40) at Amazon

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The 24-gallon bags measure 29 inches long by 14 inches wide by 13 inches high and hold up to 65 pounds. The larger 40-gallon version measures 35.43 inches long by 16.14 inches wide by 16.14 inches high and supports up to 150 pounds. All sizes are made from woven polypropylene and designed with reinforced handles, zipper closures, backpack-style straps, and a moistureproof coating for added durability.

What makes these especially useful is how quickly they simplify the messier parts of moving and storage. Instead of scrambling for boxes, tape, and mismatched bins, you can fill these, zip them shut, and stack them neatly. They also fold flat when not in use, so they won’t take up valuable closet or shelf space year-round.

Reviewers have said they’re “totally worth the money.” One shopper shared, “These are so helpful for moving,” while another noted they hold “way more than expected.” Others described them as “so versatile and well made,” with one reviewer adding, “I’m never going back to moving boxes again!”

Related: Amazon’s ‘Cute’ 3-Tier End Table Is an ‘Expensive’-Looking Storage Fix for Just $20

Beyond seasonal clothing swaps, they’re also handy to keep in the car for groceries, use for laundry runs, or stash extra linens and towels. Some people said they even use them to store gifts out of sight or organize holiday decor between seasons. Multiple reviewers shared that they’ve purchased the bags several times due to their great quality and value.

If you want a flexible storage option that works for moving days, seasonal swaps, and everyday clutter control, the Velvetsure Storage Tote Bag Set is worth considering. With multiple colors, sizes, and quantities available, it’s easy to find an option that fits your space and storage needs. Be sure to snag yours now while the $30 deal is still live on Amazon.

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New details about Brian Hickerson’s relationship with Hayden Panettiere are being revealed more than one week after the actress died.

Panettiere’s mom, Lesley Vogel, told The New York Times that Hickerson—who had dated Panettiere on and off since 2018—had pawned some of her belongings prior to her shocking death. Vogel said that she was “shocked” to learn that Hickerson was selling items, including a vintage guitar. Another source told the outlet the same thing.

Vogel also claimed that Hickerson was storing some of the Heroes star’s belongings in his storage unit.

According to TMZ, Hickerson filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy in July 2022, “listing assets totaling $25,700 and liabilities totaling around $60k.”

Hickerson and Panettiere’s relationship has been referred to as tumultuous, as it was marked by domestic violence allegations that resulted in Hickerson being arrested on several occasions.

“I am coming forward with the truth about what happened to me with the hope that my story will empower others in abusive relationships to get the help they need and deserve,” she said following one of Hickerson’s arrests in 2020, according to People. “I am prepared to do my part to make sure this man never hurts anyone again. I’m grateful for my support system, which helped me find the courage to regain my voice and my life.”

Despite the public being led to believe that Hickerson and Panettiere ended their relationship in 2022, the two reportedly stayed connected and eventually rekindled their romance.

““When I got the phone call from her saying, ‘I’m going to be with the person I love.’ And I said, I just lost it. I lost it. I could not believe that she had gone that far back, that he had been successful in reeling her back in with all of the things he had done to her,” Vogel said on Good Morning America.

In August 2026, Panettiere traveled to South Carolina with Hickerson. The day after they arrived, Hickerson and his brother Zach found her unresponsive in an Airbnb they had been staying in. Emergency personnel arrived, but despite attempting life-saving measures, the actress was pronounced dead at the scene. She was just 36 years old.

READ NEXT: Hayden Panettiere Appeared ‘Beaten Up’ as Firefighters Transported Her on a Gurney 2 Years Before She Died, Neighbor Says

One of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors took on a very different kind of role in the acclaimed Italian drama.

Hands Over the City, a 1963 film starring Rod Steiger, opened the 24th Venice International Film Festival 63 years ago today, on Aug. 24, 1963. The film would go on to win the festival’s prestigious Golden Lion, its top prize.

Directed by Italian filmmaker Francesco Rosi, Hands Over the City (Le mani sulla città) centers on Eduardo Nottola, a powerful real-estate developer and city councilman in Naples. Steiger plays the ruthless businessman, whose political influence becomes increasingly tangled with a controversial development project.

The movie opens with the collapse of a residential building near a construction site, setting off an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the disaster. The story then moves into the political world of Naples, where competing interests and allegations of corruption take center stage.

For Steiger, the role offered an opportunity to bring the intensity that had already made him one of Hollywood’s most respected character actors to an Italian production.

He had earned an Academy Award nomination for his performance in The Pawnbroker the following year and would win the Oscar for Best Actor in 1968 for In the Heat of the Night. His other notable films included On the Waterfront, The Longest Day, Doctor Zhivago and Waterloo.

Criterion Collection describes Steiger’s performance in Hands Over the City as “ferocious,” highlighting the actor’s portrayal of the scheming developer. The collection also notes that Rosi specifically used Steiger’s Hollywood persona to give the film an international star presence.

The film was not simply a showcase for Steiger, however. Rosi used the story as a pointed examination of political power, real-estate speculation and the rapid transformation of Naples.

Hands Over the City premiered in competition at the 24th Venice International Film Festival, which ran from Aug. 24 through Sept. 7, 1963. Rosi ultimately took home the Golden Lion for the film.

The honor helped establish Hands Over the City as one of Rosi’s defining works. Decades later, the film was included on an Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage list of 100 Italian films considered important enough to be preserved.

More than six decades later, Hands Over the City remains a notable entry in both Rosi’s filmography and Steiger’s remarkable career. And while Steiger would go on to win an Oscar for one of his most famous American roles, his performance in this Italian political drama helped bring one of the era’s most acclaimed filmmakers a major international prize.

Steiger died on July 9, 2002, at the age of 77.

RELATED: ’70s Rock Legend Behind ‘Easy Livin’ Would Be 81 Today 

Deciding whether a theme park ride is too overwhelming for a toddler, an older relative, or a traveler with sensory sensitivities has always involved a fair amount of guesswork. While posted warning boards list broad restrictions around heart conditions and height requirements, they rarely capture what it actually feels like once the lap bar locks into place.

Disney may be developing a high-tech solution to take that uncertainty out of the queue.

According to newly published patent documentation titled “Personalized Notification of Attractions Including User Preferences or Aversions,” the company is exploring a dynamic system that would allow guests to log specific sensory triggers—such as pitch-black rooms, flashing strobe lights, sudden drops, or claustrophobic spaces—into their mobile park profiles.

Rather than treating every rider to the exact same cookie-cutter presentation, the underlying software would cross-reference a traveler’s comfort boundaries against real-time ride data. If a match occurs, the system could send a discreet heads-up to a smartphone or wearable device before the moment happens, or even alter the physical show elements in real time.

Related: Disney’s Big Thunder Mountain Just Reopened—But It’s Already Facing a Major Hiccup

How Smart Ride Vehicles Could Customize Thrills on the Fly

Where the concept truly pushes the envelope is what happens once you are already buckled into the ride vehicle.

Using precision location sensors and locked media timecodes, the proposed software could swap out intense imagery for gentler, substitute visual and audio scenes. On motion simulators and flight-based rides, the system could go a step further by communicating directly with onboard motion bases—softening abrupt altitude drops and g-forces for a grandparent riding with a young grandchild, or reducing sudden sensory shocks for guests on the autism spectrum.

Riders would also have the ability to calibrate their preferences on a sliding scale. A guest who is slightly uneasy around static spooky props might choose to keep the standard show intact, while someone with severe arachnophobia could flag aggressive crawling effects to trigger an automated warning before entering the queue.

Related: Disney Just Unveiled the Name for Its Completely Reimagined Space Mountain

What This Means for the Future of Theme Park Inclusivity

While theme park operators regularly file forward-looking patents that remain experimental concepts, the initiative highlights how digital personalization and adaptive technology are shaping modern attraction design.

As theme park analyst Mike Valentino of BlogMickey.com observes, even if the dynamic vehicle modifications take years to materialize on physical tracks, the concept represents a major step forward for guest comfort: “As Disney continues to look for ways to be more accommodating to all guests, this would be one way to ensure that guests at least have the best information to make a decision.”

By combining predictive machine learning with real-time guest feedback, the technology hints at a future where families no longer have to split up at the ride entrance—allowing everyone to share the same magical experience at a comfort level that works for them.

Related: Disney’s Newest Lake Houses Are a Love Letter to Classic Disney Artistry

Former Indiana Pacers star Reggie Miller turns 61, marking the birthday of one of the NBA’s most famous shooters and clutch performers.

Born Reginald Wayne Miller on Aug. 24, 1965, in Riverside, California, Miller built a Hall of Fame career during 18 seasons with the Indiana Pacers. He became known around the league for his three-point shooting, late-game shots and fierce battles with the New York Knicks.

Those moments gave Miller one of basketball’s most famous nicknames: “The Knick Killer.”

Miller played his entire NBA career with Indiana from 1987 to 2005 and became a five-time NBA All-Star. His career later earned him a place in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012. In 2021, he was also named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.

Reggie Miller as a part of State Farm All-Star Saturday Night on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images

Miller’s No. 31 jersey has been retired by both the Pacers and UCLA, where he played college basketball before entering the NBA.

Miller’s rivalry with the New York Knicks helped define his career. One of his most famous games came during the 1994 Eastern Conference Finals. In Game 5 at Madison Square Garden, Miller scored 39 points, including 25 in the fourth quarter, as Indiana defeated New York 93-86.

The game also became known for Miller’s heated exchange with filmmaker and longtime Knicks fan Spike Lee, who was sitting courtside.

A year later, Miller delivered what remains one of the most famous late-game performances in NBA history.

On May 7, 1995, the Pacers trailed the Knicks 105-99 with 18.7 seconds remaining in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Miller then scored eight unanswered points in 8.9 seconds.

He hit a three-pointer, stole the Knicks’ inbound pass, and quickly made another three to tie the game. After New York missed two free throws, Miller grabbed the rebound, was fouled and made both free throws to give Indiana a 107-105 win.

The sequence became one of the biggest moments of Miller’s career and further cemented the “Knick Killer” nickname.

Chris Broussard once described Miller’s late-game ability by saying, “First and foremost, Reggie Miller is mad clutch. Ask Patrick Ewing and the New York Knicks.”

“No one has hit more unforgettable clutch shots. Reggie Miller is mad clutch.” 💯@Chris_Broussard explains why you kids just don’t know how good @ReggieMillerTNT was pic.twitter.com/QLbpGvSIYW

— The Association on FOX (@TheAssociation) April 8, 2020

Miller’s playoff success was not limited to New York.

In the 1998 Eastern Conference Finals, the Pacers faced Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. Indiana pushed the series to a Game 7, something few teams accomplished against Jordan’s Bulls during their championship years.

Miller also hit a game-winning three-pointer over Jordan in Game 4 to tie the series at 2-2.

Broussard later said of Miller’s performance: “Heck, ask Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. Reggie once scored 13 points in the last 4.5 minutes of an Eastern Conference Finals game on a sprained ankle to upset the Bulls.”

The Bulls eventually won the series, but Miller and the Pacers made Jordan’s final championship run much more difficult.

Miller entered the NBA as the 11th overall pick in the 1987 draft. Some Pacers fans initially wanted Indiana native Steve Alford instead, but Miller soon became the franchise’s biggest star.

He stayed with the Pacers for all 18 seasons of his career, appearing in 1,389 games. He also led the NBA in free-throw percentage five times.

In June, Miller reflected on his biggest playoff disappointments during an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show. When asked whether he would rather change the result of Game 7 against the Bulls in 1998 or Game 4 of the 2000 NBA Finals, he chose the chance to beat Jordan in Chicago.

“Winning a Game 7 in Chicago versus, in my opinion, the greatest player of all time, I would probably take that again. Mark Jackson and I, that was our thinking, we wanted to retire Jordan,” Miller said.

Miller retired in 2005 and remains closely connected to basketball through broadcasting. As of the 2025-26 season, he serves as a lead NBA game analyst for NBC Sports following the league’s return to NBC and Peacock.

His playing days may be over, but the moments that made “Miller Time” famous remain a major part of NBA history.

Related: LeBron James’ Wife Savannah James Announces Career News

Back-to-school season is in full swing across the country, but for many Americans, leaning fully into fall vibes isn’t possible when the temperature feels more poolside than pumpkin patch. 

Related: Popeyes Revives ‘Irresistible’ Fan-Favorite Menu Item

Sonic is tackling that problem head-on with its new Hotumn menu, which recognizes that even though we’d love to be wearing scarves, chunky sweaters, and knee-high boots at this time of year, ice-cold drinks are much more in line with the weather. But back-to-school season also brings on major waves of nostalgia, so to counter the heat wave, the popular chain is launching a new banana collection that takes you back to your childhood in the sweetest way. 

Bananas are the country’s most-eaten fresh fruit and are currently at the forefront of a new flavor trend at grocery stores, from King’s Hawaiian’s Minions-inspired “Shake ‘Em” Banana Bites to Califia Farms’ Organic Banana Crème Almond Milk Coffee Creamer.

Dunkin’ and Starbucks have featured banana on their coffee menus, and The New York Times reports that this isn’t just an American trend– it actually kicked off in South Korea, where consumers spearheaded a buzzy new coffee and banana milk trend that took over social media.

Related: Coffee Mate Debuts Limited-Time Creamer Fans Say Is a 10/10

But back to Sonic, where fans can go bananas for four different takes on the beloved fruit:

• Banana Pudding Shake: The fan-favorite frozen treat returns to the menu, featuring creamy banana pudding-flavored soft serve blended with vanilla wafer cookie crumbles and topped with even more vanilla wafer cookie crumbles, whipped topping, and a cherry. 
• Banana Pudding Blast: Creamy banana pudding-flavored soft serve blended with vanilla wafer cookie crumbles and topped with even more vanilla wafer cookie crumbles. 
• Banana Dirty Dr Pepper: A bold new twist on the dirty soda trend that combines Dr Pepper with the sweet flavor of real banana and cream. 
• Banana Pudding Cream Slush: Creamy vanilla soft serve blended with an icy banana pudding slush.

The full banana lineup hits Sonic menus nationwide starting today. 

Next: Coca-Cola Debuts a New One-Of-A-Kind Flavor– But Only for a Limited Time

You can take the girl out of Texas, but she’s still going to sing about it. Kacey Musgraves opened her Middle of Nowhere Tour with a sold-out show in Chicago on Friday, Aug. 21. It was also her 38th birthday, and she was feelin’ it in the best way.

After performing her own songs, including several from her spicy new Middle of Nowhere album (“Dry Spell,” “Mexico Honey”), Musgraves ended her show with one of her favorites: A cover of George Strait‘s 1987 hit “All My Ex’s Live in Texas” (full setlist here).

The “High Horse” singer is from Texas originally — she calls Nashville home now — and she must have been missing the Lone Star State while performing for the Illinois crowd.

Strait is known as the King of Country, and that extends beyond the state lines. He was already seven albums deep when he cut “All My Ex’s” and released it to country radio in April of 1987. It was a big hit. The song became his 11th No. 1 single on Billboard‘s U.S. Hot Country Songs chart, though it hit No. 1 in Canada, too.

“All My Ex’s Live in Texas” even garnered Strait his first Grammy nomination for Best Male Country Vocal Performance, and Musgraves does him proud with how she belts her version.

This was far from the first time she’s performed the 39-year-old classic, but why stop now, when it’s such a fan favorite during live shows? She was a full day’s drive from Texas, but folks were singing along like it was a lived experience for them, too.

Above her, red, white and blue stars — Texas flag colors — bobbed up and down, and a larger-than-life Texas flag hung behind her.

@tomasmier

Kacey Musgraves closes Middle of Nowhere tour show with All My Ex’s Live in Texas  #kaceymusgravesconcert #kaceymusgraves #allmyexsliveintexas #allymyexes @kaceymusgraves

♬ All My Ex’s Live In Texas – George Strait

She was also wearing a cowboy hat and a big ol’ sparkly belt buckle, because this is country music, after all. Mr. Strait has more or less hung up his touring hat, so Musgraves will have to help his legacy live on during her own concerts.

As the Middle of Nowhere Tour is just beginning, she’s gearing up for a busy fall. Up next is Toronto on Aug. 24, then she’s back in the States for a Boston visit on Aug. 28. Don’t worry, Musgraves will get back to Texas at some point, too: She’s heading to Houston and has dates double-booked in Austin and Dallas in October.

Fall flavors are back at Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard. Sweater weather is almost here, but that cool autumn chill isn’t in the air. And that means you could still use an icy summertime treat. 

Luckily, Rita’s has your summer and fall cravings covered with a bounty of refreshing returning Pumpkin and Apple Butter fan favorites. But these limited-time menu items are seasonal selections that won’t last long. So don’t wait to try these deliciously decadent desserts.

Rita’s fall lineup. Photo: Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard What limited-edition fall flavors are returning to Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard?

While some brands only release one fall flavor, Rita’s is treating their loyal customers to two: Pumpkin and Apple Butter. Not only are there two distinct tastes on the menu, but the returning autumn lineup also includes four seasonal selections.

If you’re looking for a way to quench your pumpkin craving, here you go: Choose from the Pumpkin Frozen Coffee (Rita’s signature Frozen Coffee with pumpkin creme and a whipped cream topping) or Pumpkin Pie Concrete (Rita’s Vanilla Frozen Custard mixed with smooth, rich pumpkin creme and crunchy vanilla wafers).

Not into pumpkin spice everything this year? That’s okay. Rita’s also re-released two apple-licious options: The Apple Butter Milkshake (Rita’s Vanilla Frozen Custard mixed with Apple Butter flavor, whipped cream, and of course, a cherry on top) and Apple Butter Concrete (Rita’s Vanilla Frozen Custard blended with crunchy vanilla wafers, sweet Apple Butter flavor, and apple pie topping). 

Rita’s Senior VP of Marketing Insights and Innovations, Carmela Hughley, said in a press release, “For so many of our guests, the first taste of pumpkin is when fall officially begins.” Hughley continued, “There’s a reason pumpkin season has become a celebration of its own, and at Rita’s, we’re all in. We’re bringing back the Pumpkin and Apple Butter flavors our guests crave with a cool Rita’s twist that makes it easy to savor every last taste of fall.”

Where can you get the fall Pumpkin and Apple Butter treats?

These fall flavors are available right now at participating Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard stores for a limited time, while supplies last. To find the nearest location, visit the brand’s website here. 

For most actors, induction into a television Hall of Fame might be the moment to reflect on a remarkable career.

Not Ted Danson.

The Cheers legend was honored earlier this month with induction into the Television Academy’s 2026 Televerse Festival Hall of Fame, joining an accomplished class that included Jean Smart, Trey Parker, Matt Stone, Ted Sarandos and Sheila Nevins.

But when asked whether the recognition had him thinking about his legacy, the 78-year-old actor had a simple response.

“I don’t do that,” Danson told People in an interview released on Saturday, August 22. “No, too soon.”

Getty Images

Standing beside him at the ceremony, his wife, actress Mary Steenburgen, couldn’t resist adding her own response.

“You’re too young.”

Danson then explained why looking backward has never interested him.

“No, I’m still trying to get it right,” he said. “We’re both working right now on things that challenge us and are kind of hard and exciting and all of that. That’s where my focus is. And I think that’s where it should be.”

Steenburgen, 73, agreed.

“We still have a lot to learn. It’s not like you’re cooked when you’re 73 and 78.”

The exchange offered a glimpse into the mindset that has helped make Danson one of television’s most enduring stars.

After first becoming a household name as bartender Sam Malone on Cheers, Danson went on to headline acclaimed series including Becker, CSI, The Good Place and, most recently, Netflix’s A Man on the Inside. Earlier this year, Netflix renewed the mystery-comedy for a third season, with Danson returning as retired professor-turned-amateur detective Charles Nieuwendyk.

Receiving one of television’s highest honors was meaningful, but Danson admitted the recognition can still feel overwhelming.

“All of this acknowledgement makes me a little nervous,” he told the outlet. “But it’s wonderful. Don’t take it away. It’s a lot to digest, but it’s also an opportunity to thank people who have meant so much and given me so much along the way.”

Mountain Dew fans are no strangers to the brand’s flavorful takes on soda, from the beloved Baja Blast at Taco Bell to innovative flavors like Dragonfruit. Now, the soda company is bringing back a popular collaboration with a twist that is sure to delight its biggest fans. 

Related: Coca-Cola Debuts a New One-Of-A-Kind Flavor– But Only for a Limited Time

For the second year in a row, Mountain Dew is teaming up with Trolli for a fruit-forward soda that pairs perfectly with the candy brand’s gummy candy. Mountain Dew x Trolli Mango Pineapple Punch features bold notes of tropical mango and pineapple, as well as a hint of strawberry, and is designed specifically to be sipped while snacking on Trolli Spicy Crawlers to lean into the popular swicy trend. 

The new flavor will be available in both regular and zero sugar bottles and cans at retailers across the United States, as well as in regular 20-ounce bottles at participating Pizza Hut locations nationwide from August 24 through October. And for those set on trying the sweet and spicy flavor combination, Walmart.com will also sell a limited-edition Mountain Dew x Trolli kit while supplies last. 

Related: Pizza Hut’s New Cheese-Loaded Pizza Starts at Just $10

Mountain Dew x Trolli collaborate on Mango Pineapple Punch.

Mountain Dew

“Last year’s Mountain Dew and Trolli collaboration showed just how much excitement there is when two iconic brands come together in an unexpected way,” said Michael Smith, VP of Marketing, Mountain Dew, PepsiCo Beverages U.S. in a statement shared with Parade. “This year, we’re taking that idea even further with a sweet-and-spicy flavor twist that taps into a growing consumer trend while delivering the bold, one-of-a-kind experience fans expect from both brands.”

The Trolli x Mountain Dew Sour Brite Crawlers gummy candy and Mountain Dew Zero Sugar x Trolli Cherry Lemon launch from last year “quickly became one of the fastest-selling products in the Mountain Dew lineup,” says the soda company. 

“Trolli is all about pushing the boundaries of what a sour gummi candy can be, so what better way to show consumers more ways to enjoy Trolli Spicy Crawlers than by pairing it with the bold, new fruit-forward Mountain Dew soda,” said Chad Womack, Marketing Director, Trolli, in a statement shared with Parade. “This collaboration lets fans savor our chewy gummi candy in a refreshing, yet sweet and spicy experience.”

Next: Sonic’s New Limited-Time Drink Lineup Features a Twist You’ll Crave All Year Long

When V.C. Andrews published Flowers in the Attic in 1979, readers thought they were stepping into a completely wild, exaggerated gothic teenage nightmare.

However, what millions of unsuspecting fans didn’t realize was that the chilling isolation of the Dollanganger family was drawn directly from the quiet reality playing out in Andrews’ own home. While readers were stunned by the dark tale, the truth about what drove Andrews to write it was far more personal than anyone imagined.

Upon its 1979 debut, Flowers in the Attic became an instant bestseller, but it faced significant backlash. According to the website 29 Secrets, the novel was banned in many schools and libraries because of its plotline, which included a romantic relationship between a brother and sister and incidents of child abuse.

However, according to Andrew Neiderman‘s biography The Woman Beyond the Attic, Andrews lived a life of isolation similar to that of her most famous characters. She reportedly fought a quiet, lifelong battle under the thumb of her overbearing mother, Lillian, as highlighted by The Guardian.

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“Her mother would lock her in her room and not give her dinner if she got angry at her,” Neiderman claimed. “She controlled who Virginia could see, what she could do, and punished her for not doing what she wanted.”

According to the author, Andrews suffered from rheumatoid arthritis, and surgery in her late teens left her unable to walk and move her neck without pain. She was said to have been dependent on her mother, Lillian, for years.

Neiderman claimed that Andrews was “trapped. Her mother kept her under lock and key. Firstly, because she was ashamed of her for being disabled, and secondly, because she couldn’t handle it [Andrews’s disability].”

He concluded, “[Andrews’s mother] wouldn’t read her books, she wouldn’t read anything she wrote. It wasn’t until Virginia became famous and did readings and book signings and a trip to Europe that her mother respected her as a writer.”

The author wrote Flowers in the Attic at 56, as reported by Salon. Andrews said, “I wrote [the book] in two weeks. By that time, however, I had been writing for seven years and had written nine unpublished novels.” 

“I lost 12 pounds [in the weeks writing it]; it upset me so much. For I lived through everything those children suffered,” Andrews explained, as reported by Neiderman, per a 2022 New York Post story.

After her book became a runaway bestseller, Andrews responded to critics of the book as reported by Twilight Magazine in 1983. She said, “I don’t care what the critics say. I used to, until I found out that most critics are would-be writers who are just jealous because I’m getting published and they aren’t. I also don’t think that anybody cares about what they say. Nor should they care.”

Andrews authored nine books. These included Flowers in the Attic (1979), Petals on the Wind (1980), If There Be Thorns (1981), My Sweet Audrina (1982), Seeds of Yesterday (1984), Heaven (1985), and Dark Angel (1986). Two books released after her death included Garden of Shadows (1986) and Gods of Green Mountain (2004).

Neiderman, Andrews’ biographer, became her ghostwriter after she died of breast cancer in 1986. He finished his final book in 2025 after writing 100 titles under her name over 37 years.

The original Flowers in the Attic book series was adapted into a cult-classic 1987 feature film. Subsequently, it was also a hit 2014 Lifetime movie franchise, and eventually a star-studded television prequel series, as generations of audiences remained obsessed with the Dollangangers’ dark saga.

If you suspect child abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child or 1-800-422-4453, or visit their website.

Related: 1997 Blockbuster Book Series’ First Released 29 Years Ago, Remains One of the Top 5 Best-Selling Novels in History

Sharna Burgess has not appeared on Dancing with the Stars since Season 30 in 2021. But today on Good Morning America, it was revealed that she will return to the ballroom this fall.

“I’m back! Some of you guys guessed it. Yes, I am here with a special announcement to finally confirm I’m back on Dancing with the Stars, baby,” Burgess said. “I’m going to be competing for that Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. I can’t wait to be back in the ballroom with my dancing family, and mostly it feels so good to be coming home. I’ll see you all soon.”

The Australian ballroom dancer won the Mirrorball trophy in Season 27 when she was paired with the controversial celebrity winner, radio personality Bobby Bones, on Nov. 19, 2018. Burgess took a hiatus from Dancing with the Stars for Season 31 in 2022 to focus on motherhood after welcoming her newborn son, Zane.

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Previously announced celebrity contestants –reality star Maura Higgins from The Traitors and Love Island, Ciara Miller from Summer House, and Savannah Bananas’ Jackson Olson — have not yet had their pro partners revealed, but Jimmy Kimmel’s longtime sidekick Guillermo Rodriguez will be teamed up with Season 34 Len Goodman Mirrorball Champion Witney Carson.

Related:  Everything You Need to Know about Dancing with the Stars Season 35?

The full cast of celebrities and pro partners will be revealed on Wednesday, Sept. 2, again, on Good Morning America.

Dancing with the Stars will have a two-night premiere on Tuesday, Sept. 15, and Wednesday, Sept 16, at  8 p.m. on ABC and Disney+ and stream next day on Hulu.

Next, Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Rumored Cast Features Shocking Names and TV Icons

Ella Langley’s “Be Her” is now one of the biggest songs of her career, but the country hit came together in only about 30 minutes.

The song, which serves as the second single from Langley’s second studio album, Dandelion, has become a major chart success. “Be Her” peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it was kept out of the top spot by Langley’s own “Choosin’ Texas,” making it her second-best-performing hit.

The song is also continuing to gain attention outside the U.. In the United Kingdom, “Be Her” recently debuted at No. 77 on the Official Streaming chart and later jumped from No. 42 to a new peak of No. 28 on the Official Singles chart.

Behind the fast-growing hit is an equally fast writing session.

Langley wrote “Be Her” with HARDY, Smith Ahnquist, and Jordan Schmidt. According to the singer, the song came together quickly while she was working to finish Dandelion.

Ella Langley performs onstage at the Billboard Women in Music 2026 held at the Hollywood Palladium on April 29, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.

Photo by Gilbert Flores/Billboard via Getty Images

In a video shared by Nash Everything in May, Langley explained how the writing session happened.

“Well that song, it’s funny because I wrote it with three guys. I think it’s what the funniest parts of it.”

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She continued by naming her co-writers and explaining that she was trying to finish the record when she was placed in one of HARDY’s writing rooms.

“Threw me on one of his little rooms and I mean the song fell out in like 30 minutes.”

For Langley, the idea behind the title made the writing process simple. “Be Her” is not about wanting to become another person. Instead, the song looks inward at the person she wants to become.

The singer explained that the song came from thinking about her own life and the things she would like to improve.

“I just literally sat there and said things I wanted to work on. When I was writing, I was really thinking of myself looking at a mirror.”

That personal approach became the center of “Be Her.” Langley made it clear that the song is about self-reflection rather than wishing to become someone else.

“I didn’t want people to think that this song was about trying to be someone else. It’s not about being another woman or looking at someone and thinking like, ‘God, I wish I had hair like that’ … But it really is about looking at yourself.”

Langley also gave examples of the everyday things she thought about while writing. She joked about wanting to make better choices, including drinking less wine and avoiding a hangover the next morning.

The quick process did not stop the song from becoming one of the most important releases from Langley’s Dandelion era.

Langley also admitted that the song has a special place in her own life. She said it is the only song she has danced to by herself in front of a mirror.

“The only one I’ve like danced to myself in the mirror.”

While “Choosin’ Texas” remains Langley’s biggest hit, “Be Her” has become her second-best-performing song on the Billboard Hot 100. From a writing session that lasted only about half an hour, “Be Her” became one of the standout songs connected to Langley’s second album. 

And the story began with a simple question: Who is the person she wants to become?

Related: 1994 Country Song, Reimagined by Ella Langley, Is Still a Major Hit 32 Years Later 

If you have a balance of credit card rewards sitting untouched in your online banking account, you’re in good company.

Industry data shows that while roughly 71% of Americans hold at least one point-earning card, a staggering 86% rarely or never redeem them*. Instead, cardholders tend to treat their balances like a delicate savings fund—saving them for a hypothetical “someday” or defaulting to low-value cash-out options like Amazon checkouts and retail gift cards.

According to award travel specialist and CEO & founder of Point.me, Adam Morvitz, that hesitation is the fastest way to lose real value.

“Points are wealth. They’re additional spending power,” Morvitz explains. “The number one redemption across U.S. consumers is for an Amazon gift card or an Amazon discount at the checkout phase… that is the worst use of your points. Spend your points now. Use your points. They’re not getting more valuable.”

If you want to turn everyday spending into overseas getaways without getting bogged down in confusing loyalty fine print, here is the real-world strategy for navigating the points game.

Related: The Best Travel Credit Cards of 2026, According to The Points Guy

View this post on Instagram 1. Stop Hoarding: Points Are Not a Long-Term Investment

One of the biggest psychological hurdles for everyday cardholders is the fear of “wasting” a hard-earned balance. But unlike money sitting in a high-yield savings account, loyalty points do not earn interest—and airlines adjust their award charts constantly.

The longer points sit idle, the more purchasing power they lose to annual program devaluations. Treating points as currency to be spent as soon as you have enough for a specific flight or hotel stay is the only way to lock in their peak value.

2. Avoid Bank Portals and Use Direct Airline Transfers

The most common trap for casual travelers is booking flights directly through credit card travel portals.

Most bank portals fix your points at a flat baseline rate (typically around one penny per point). Under that math, a standard economy ticket to Europe might cost 50,000 to 80,000 points, while an international business-class ticket could require upwards of 500,000 to 800,000 points.

The real savings happen when you utilize direct airline transfer partners.

Major rewards programs (like Chase Ultimate Rewards, Amex Membership Rewards, Capital One, and Citi ThankYou) allow you to transfer points directly into frequent flyer programs at a 1:1 ratio.

By transferring points directly to international airlines like Virgin Atlantic, Air France-KLM Flying Blue, or Iberia—especially during promotional transfer bonus periods—that same economy flight to Europe can cost as little as 10,000 to 20,000 points, while lie-flat business class seats frequently open up for 45,000 to 60,000 points.

Related: How to Book a Quick, Last-Minute ‘Points-Cation’ Without Getting Burned

3. Keep Your Routine Simple with the ‘Drawer Method’

Maximizing rewards does not require opening a dozen credit cards or damaging your credit score. In fact, juggling too many active cards often leads to missed payments and high interest fees that completely wipe out the value of any travel perks.

Morvitz, who maintains an 850 credit score, recommends keeping just three or four workhorse cards in your actual wallet:

• One card that earns elevated points on groceries and dining (such as 3x or 4x per dollar).
• One general-purpose card that earns a flat 2x points on everyday miscellaneous spending.
• One flexible travel-rewards card tied to major airline transfer partners.

For cards opened primarily for welcome bonuses, he uses what he calls the “drawer method.”

“I sign up for the bonuses and then I put them in the drawer,” Morvitz says. “If it’s not a card I’m going to use every day, I don’t want to be tempted to use it. So, it goes in the drawer… and that’s it.”

To avoid surprise annual fees on stored cards, request physical paper notices from your card issuers for recurring annual fees, giving you a 30-day window to evaluate whether keeping the account open still makes financial sense.

Related: 6 Airline Perks That Are Actually Worth the Money (and 2 to Skip)

4. Take Advantage of Built-In Award Flight Flexibility

A massive silver lining of modern award bookings that travelers rarely realize is the post-pandemic flexibility built into points tickets.

“Pre-COVID, booking an award flight was very similar to booking a cash flight where you would be penalized for canceling,” Morvitz notes. “The one thing that no one talks about enough is most of those consumer protections that were put in place during COVID to get people traveling have held on in terms of award travel. And so for all the U.S. carriers, there is no fee to cancel your flight and put the points right back in your account.”

While international carriers may assess modest administrative redeposit fees (often $35 to $75), domestic carriers allow you to cancel points bookings and have the miles redeposited immediately with zero penalties—giving you total freedom to lock in a deal when you spot it without locking yourself into rigid plans.

Related: The Secret to Choosing the Best Airline Loyalty Program I Wish I Learned Sooner

5. Use Live Meta-Search Engines to Spot Sub-10K Transatlantic Deals

The biggest barrier to actually using transfer partners has always been the sheer manual labor of opening a dozen browser tabs across foreign airline sites.

To solve that, dedicated award search tools like Point.me pull live inventory across more than 150 airlines and 30 loyalty programs in real time. Rather than relying on outdated cached data, the platform calculates whether a flight is cheaper via cash, bank portal points, or direct partner transfers.

In a live walkthrough, Morvitz pulled up one-way transatlantic flights from Boston to London for as low as 5,000 to 6,000 points via Virgin Atlantic (leveraging a live transfer bonus) and sub-10K redemptions into Paris, proving that jaw-dropping flight deals aren’t urban legends—they’re just hidden behind airline partnerships most travelers don’t know exist.

Related: Best Credit Card for Travel Points

6. Let Price-Drop Alerts and Syncing Do the Heavy Lifting

Instead of endlessly checking flight trackers, the most efficient way to book award travel is to set target parameters and let the system monitor seat availability in the background.

By syncing your loyalty balances—or manually logging your credit card rewards—the platform filters out flights you can’t afford and surfaces options based strictly on what’s in your wallet. Travelers can set specific route, carrier, or cabin alerts to trigger email and text notifications the moment an airline drops the redemption cost into their budget range, allowing you to snag international seats before award space disappears.

For live award flight searching, automated price-drop alerts, and real-time award maps to help convert your credit card points into cheap flights, visit Point.me.

Related: How to ‘Buy’ Marriott Elite Status for Under $200 Without a Credit Card

Sources:

*Point.me/Amex partnership data

Christcore Fest 2027, a Christian metalcore and hardcore music festival, is getting even bigger with a major update ahead of the highly anticipated event.

With the two-day event scheduled for April 24 and 25 at the Wilson Logistics Arena in Springfield, Missouri, the music festival unites heavy music fans who share the same Christian faith while creating an inclusive community and safe space.

Following the initial announcement regarding the festival’s concept and the first wave of bands, Christcore Fest 2027 has announced new additions to its lineup.

In an Instagram post, the festival revealed “five more bands” joining the lineup.

Christian hardcore and metalcore bands Clear Convictions, Symphony in Peril, Project 86, Doulos HC and the Christian nu-metal band Relent are among the latest additions to next year’s festival.

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Interestingly, the list of bands isn’t complete yet, as organizers teased that there are still more to come, hinting at the growing Christcore Fest 2027 lineup featuring the headliners.

“This lineup is getting absolutely ridiculous, and there are still some BIG names we haven’t told you about yet,” the caption reads.

The post sparked speculation about the yet-to-be-announced artists who will perform at the annual music festival.

“That long blurred-out one is @unbrokenreignband, isn’t it?” one person asked.

On the other hand, others were thrilled to see the exciting lineup of performers.

“This fest will be so fire!!!!! Can’t wait to connect with fellow believers and see how God is gonna show up at this!!!!!” a follower said.

“This is awesome!” an excited fan added.

Fans attending the two-day event will witness a slew of bands taking the stage, with the complete lineup as follows:

Symphony In Peril
P86: Omni
Diamond To Dust
Relent
(Un)worthy
NRWHL
Drown The Planet
Collective Dust
Clear Convictions
Heartbound
xDoulosx
Dreaded Dale
Living Scars
Sequoia
Permeated Bones

John and Carly, the husband-and-wife team and founders of Christcore Fest, want the annual festival to be more than just a Christian music festival and instead make it a celebration of faith-based community.

“Christcore Fest is about more than putting a bunch of bands on a stage for two days,” as mentioned in an Instagram post, adding, “We want to build a community that actually shows up for each other that celebrates together, struggles together, worships together, and prays for each other.”

Fans can now purchase early-bird weekend passes for $135.00 via their official Ticket Tailor platform, while single-day tickets will be released later this year.

Related: Major Hardcore Music Festival Announces Star-Studded 2026 Lineup