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The trial over Tupac Shakur‘s 1996 murder revisits the bitter East Coast-West Coast rap rivalry that surrounded the hip-hop legend before his death.

This week, jurors in the murder trial of Duane “Keffe D” Davis heard a once-secret 2008 police interview in which Davis appeared to detail his role in the 1996 drive-by shooting that killed Tupac Shakur. But testimony from former LAPD Det. Daryn Dupree also revealed just how tangled the case became with the broader East Coast-West Coast feud, connecting Death Row Records’ Suge Knight and Bad Boy Records’ Sean Combs to the investigation in ways that went far beyond Las Vegas.

According to Rolling Stone, investigators were originally focused on a separate case, the 1997 murder of Notorious B.I.G., when Davis unexpectedly volunteered information about Shakur’s killing during questioning. “We didn’t ask him any questions about Tupac. He offered that on his own,” Dupree testified, describing how surprised investigators were by the admission.

The East Coast-West Coast angle deepened further when Dupree revealed that Davis was later enlisted as a confidential informant in 2009, part of an effort to investigate whether Combs had paid for Shakur’s murder through an alleged intermediary. According to Rolling Stone,  “Sean ‘Puffy’ Combs supposedly had given money to Zip Martin to give to Mr. Davis for payment for the Tupac murder,” Dupree testified, though he said the plan to confirm that claim ultimately fell apart. (*It’s important to note his testimony does not establish that Combs was involved in Tupac’s murder.)

Mary Evans/FILMFOUR/LAFAYETTE FILMS/Ronald Grant/Everett Collection

Dupree also testified that federal investigators were simultaneously pursuing a broader RICO case examining whether both Death Row and Bad Boy Records had ties to drug trafficking, tying the Shakur investigation to a larger web of industry rivalry and law enforcement scrutiny.

Davis, 63, has pleaded not guilty and remains held on a murder charge with use of a deadly weapon. His defense argues he fabricated his earlier statements for leverage, entertainment, and money, while prosecutors maintain his own words amount to a confession.

As for Combs, he has vehemently denied any involvement in Shakur’s death and is currently serving a 50-month sentence stemming from a separate 2025 conviction. Nearly 30 years later, the trial is bringing the complicated history surrounding two of hip-hop’s biggest stars back into the spotlight.

After a long day walking around Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, there’s nothing better than going back to your hotel room for a shower and a comfortable bed waiting for you. And while you could pay hundreds of dollars a night for one of the official Disneyland hotels (and I have), there are plenty of budget-friendly options steps away from the gates of the Happiest Place on Earth. 

I’ve had the chance to stay at many of the off-site hotels, from Good Neighbor properties (those that Disney has put its stamp of approval on) to brand-name hotels that offer a host of amenities. But time after time, I find myself going back to my favorite budget-friendly accommodation, Hotel Lulu. So what makes this hotel worth checking in at? Keep reading for my full review.

Related: Disney Lakeshore Lodge First Look

The Biggest Factor: Price The mural inside Hotel Lulu is a great photo spot at the hotel.

Hotel Lulu

For most travelers, myself included, the biggest factor of any hotel, besides how clean it is, is always the price. And at Hotel Lulu, the prices are generally on the lower side for a Disneyland Good Neighbor property. Starting prices at Hotel Lulu are typically around $110 for Best Western Rewards Members, and go up from there depending on factors such as travel dates, room type, and whether you book a refundable room or not.

Related: Disney World Just Brought Back Free Dining for 2026 and Cardmembers Get First Dibs

Location, Location, Location Hotel Lulu is a short, easy walk to the entrance of Disneyland.

Hotel Lulu

The cute Best Western-branded hotel is just a 10-minute walk to Disneyland right down Harbour Boulevard, or a five-minute walk to the Anaheim Convention Center (perfect for those in town for conferences or fan events. Even better, because it’s on the main road to the Disneyland Resort, there’s always plenty of people out and about, so it’s pretty safe to walk to and from, even late at night after the parks close. 

And speaking of location, one of the biggest perks is that it’s right next to Disneyland’s Toy Story parking lot. So you could hop on one of those shuttles for a quick ride to or from Disneyland. If you plan on doing this, remember the shuttle ending times. It’s usually an hour after the last park closes. 

I also love that Hotel Lulu is close to a host of stores like Walgreens and CVS, just in case I’ve forgotten something. It’s also just a few minutes’ walk from local cafes (I love Brewberry Cafe for breakfast and iced lattes) and a Starbucks for quick morning pick-me-ups. 

Related: Disney Vacation Club Unveils Its Biggest Summer Perks for Members

The Vibe at Hotel Lulu The pool at Hotel Lulu is open throughout the year for guests to use.

Hotel Lulu

Let’s be very clear, Hotel Lulu is a budget-friendly hotel that does not have all of the bells and whistles of a luxury resort. But as someone who typically spends the entire day at one of the Disneyland Resort theme parks, all I really need is a clean place to sleep at the end of the night, and that’s exactly what this property provides. 

Overall, the vibe at Hotel Lulu is positive and joyful, with families always scuttling around trying to get ready for a day at one of the nearby theme parks. The lobby is bright and cheerful, with a distinct Southern California beach theme. I love the mural on the wall near the check-in desk. There’s plenty of seating so families can chill out together, and there’s always an animated Disney movie playing on the big-screen TV. During my recent visit, I spotted movies like Aladdin and The Incredibles. 

Check-in is easy, and even better, there are welcome drinks for adults and kids. I opted for the adult version, which is a blue lemonade-style cocktail. 

Related: Yes, Disneyland Paris Has a French Fine-Dining Restaurant

Accommodations at Hotel Lulu Some of the rooms at Hotel Lulu face Disneyland.

Hotel Lulu

The rooms are large, with comfortable beds, a center bedside table, a large TV, and a work desk. There was also a comfy chair in the room near the window air conditioning unit. There was also a mini-fridge and microwave, which came in handy for snacks. The bathroom was basic, with a single sink, toilet, and shower, but fit the bill for my needs. While the room itself could use some updates, it was clean, and to me, that’s what matters most.  

I recently stayed in a two-queen bedroom on the eighth floor of the hotel, which offered great views of Disney California Adventure’s Cars Land and Guardians of the Galaxy—Mission: BREAKOUT. And while the room was a little dark and starting to show its age, I didn’t have any issues while staying at the hotel.

Outside the rooms, there’s an on-site pool that’s open year-round, and in summer the pool bar is open until 4:00 p.m. The hotel also offers room service, daily happy hour, and complimentary W-Fi. 

Overall, I have truly enjoyed every stay I’ve had at Hotel Lulu. The hotel is in a great location, and the rooms, while basic, are clean, and the staff is always welcoming. So next time you’re heading to the Disneyland Resort and want a budget-friendly option, Hotel Lulu may be a great fit for your family.

Related: Disney Parks Fans Won’t Want To Miss This New Documentary Coming To Disney+

The Courtship of Eddie’s Father was one of the most beloved television shows of the early 1970s. Starring Bill Bixby as widowed father Tom Corbett and Brandon Cruz as his young child, Eddie, the series followed their close father-son relationship, set to an iconic theme song about the two being best friends.

Off camera, Bixby and Cruz’s relationship went far beyond the script as Bixby took the newcomer TV kid, who had a chaotic home life, under his wing.

During an August 2026 appearance on the Pop Culture Retro podcast, Cruz, now 64, recalled going out with Bixby away from work—and being taken to some unconventional hangouts.

“It’s like, oh, it’d be great if Bill and the kid spend some time together, so go spend the weekend at his house,” Cruz recalled. “Well, Bill was the swinging single, you know, bachelor of Hollywood in the 60s. And you know, what did Bill do on the weekends? He went to the Playboy Mansion. And where did I go? With Bill. …What I saw at 7, 8 years old, you know, wandering around at 10, 11:00 at night on a Friday or Saturday up at the Playboy Mansion. Like, wow, I saw some stuff.”

“On the other side, there was the Bill who knew what my family situation was and really wanted me to be protected and, you know, given that safe space that I was looking for,” Cruz added.  “And he did the best he could. … And he took me places. You know, we would jump in his car, and we would go on the weekends just go places. He would take me to Palm Springs, and he would take me to San Francisco. … His mom had a beautiful, crazy big place in the marina of San Francisco.”

ABC Photo Archives / Getty Images

Elsewhere in the interview, Cruz revealed that Bixby gave him acting advice and protected him on the set of the series, which aired on ABC from 1969 to 1972.

“We were there to do a job, and he knew exactly what my job was as a little kid was to be a little kid,” Cruz recalled of the show he started working on at age five. “Bill took me aside and said, ‘Brandon, no acting.’ … That was my relationship professionally with Bill. He taught me that I was there to be a kid. And he wanted me to be a kid. He wanted me to be naturally reacting to what the script called for. So I reacted to his lines and gave back my line as a kid, not as an actor, not as a mini adult, just as me, as the kid that they wanted to be in the show.”

Bixby also made sure that Cruz had decent food to eat on set after he noticed he was ordering root beer and chicken noodle soup for breakfast. The actor demanded that there be fruit and vegetables available instead of candy.

“He said, ‘We need stuff on the set this kid can eat throughout the day,’ Cruz shared. “Bill took care of me and other people, you know.”

Bixby, who went on to direct hit shows such as The Incredible Hulk and Blossom, died in 1993 at age 59. Cruz previously said he believed his TV dad was “overlooked” in Hollywood.

“Bill gave a lot of people their first break,” Cruz said in an interview posted by Closer Weekly “He brought me on to Courtship of Eddie’s Father and I was untrained. I was just a kid…. He’d go from show to show, and they were all high quality.”

Cruz has long petitioned for Bixby to be honored with a posthumous star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame via an ongoing GoFundMe campaign, which you can donate to HERE.

Related: ‘Courtship of Eddie’s Father’ Star Brandon Cruz Says TV Dad Bill Bixby Was ‘Sadly Overlooked’ by Hollywood

Jimmy Fallon had a new nickname for one of Donald Trump’s White House construction projects: the “Driveway of Hormuz.”

During his latest Tonight Show monologue, Fallon mocked Trump’s decision to replace the White House’s asphalt driveway with white granite, using the upgrade to take a swipe at the president amid the ongoing Iran war. The late-night host joked that the driveway had earned its new name as Trump continues to make headlines over the conflict and his sweeping changes around Washington, D.C.

“Yesterday, Trump took reporters on a tour of all the White House construction projects, and he revealed that he replaced the asphalt driveway with white granite,” Fallon said. “Americans are like, ‘Finally, he’s doing something that helps everyday people.’”

Fallon then cued up this joke: “The asphalt wasn’t a problem, but Trump decided to mess with it. That’s why they’re now calling it the Driveway of Hormuz,” he said to a mix of laughter and groans.

“That’s a good joke. I liked that,” Fallon added, seemingly amused by his own punchline. “Come on. That’s good. I didn’t write that. That’s a good joke, though. I love that. The Driveway of Hormuz, yeah, yeah.”

The joke landed as Fallon continued to connect Trump’s White House projects with the president’s increasingly controversial foreign policy. Earlier in the monologue, Fallon poked fun at Trump’s decision to host an IndyCar race around the National Mall before turning his attention to the White House renovations.

Fallon also mocked Trump’s broader approach to the White House construction projects, joking about the spectacle of the president personally showing reporters around the changes.

The late-night host then turned his attention to first lady Melania Trump, who had recently made a public appearance at a Rose Garden event after more than a month out of the public eye.

“Unfortunately, she saw her shadow, which means it’ll be six more weeks of separating,” Fallon joked.

He followed that with another jab at Melania’s prolonged absence from public events. “Melania was gone so long they turned her office into a Spirit Halloween,” Fallon said, adding, “Melania is like that one person in the group chat that has to text ‘haha’ every once in a while to let everyone know they’re still alive.”

Barry Mitchell, the rock musician who played bass alongside Freddie Mercury in Queen’s earliest lineup and later earned his own place in rock history as a member of one of Britain’s first proto-punk bands, has died.

His passing was confirmed by Greg Brooks, Queen’s official archivist, in a Facebook post honoring the musician. “Terribly sad news just received that early Queen bass player… has passed away,” Brooks wrote, adding that Mitchell’s stories at fan conventions “were fascinating and offered rare insight.”

The connection to Mercury dates back to August 1970, when Mitchell joined Queen as its second bassist, stepping in after original member Mike Grose departed. Over the next six months, Mitchell played 13 gigs alongside Mercury, Brian May, and Roger Taylor, reportedly laying down the original bass lines for early songs including “Liar” and “Son and Daughter.” He left the band in January 1971, and after a brief stint by another bassist, John Deacon joined to complete Queen’s classic lineup.

Mitchell was candid in a 2018 interview with Rolling Stone about why he walked away just as the band was finding its footing. He said he “wasn’t enthusiastic enough” about the group’s musical direction at the time, and admitted he didn’t see the potential that would soon make Queen one of the biggest bands in the world.

After Queen, Mitchell found his own foothold in music history, joining Crushed Butler, a band later renamed Tiger that biographers have credited as Britain’s first proto-punk act, years ahead of the genre’s mainstream arrival.

Tributes have poured in from friends and fellow musicians since news of his death broke. “RIP Barry Mitchell, Queen’s second bass player,” fellow musician Gary Taylor wrote on social media, recalling the pair’s “very interesting chats over the years.”

Mitchell’s exact cause of death has not been publicly disclosed. He is survived by two daughters.

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Every year, many of us search for that special something that feels both thoughtful and easy to give. The best presents (whether for yourself or a beloved friend) combine everyday usefulness with a touch of personality. They bring a smile, fit seamlessly into daily life, and make the recipient feel truly seen. 

If someone on your gifting list happens to love country music stars, shoppers said the Dolly Parton Pink Velvet Rockstar Stainless Steel Insulated Tumbler is a phenomenal choice. Few items manage to capture both the charm of an icon and the practical needs of everyday life, but this find does just that. It has earned glowing reviews from Dolly Parton fans and gift-givers alike. 

Dolly Parton Pink Velvet Rockstar Stainless Steel Insulated Tumbler, $29 at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

This mug is so much more than a drinking vessel. It’s a celebration of a cultural icon whose influence spans generations. The mug has a black exterior with a picture of Dolly posing on a pink velvet cushion. The word “Rockstar” is printed above the photo, while Dolly’s signature is inscribed underneath. 

The 20-ounce tumbler reflects the country star’s bold yet timeless style. The stainless steel construction ensures durability, while its insulation keeps beverages hot or cold for extended periods, making it ideal for home use or travel.

This tumbler is perfect for everything from piping hot morning coffee and mulled cider to icy cold lemonade, smoothies, or a refreshing glass of sweet tea. With its secure leakproof lid and generous capacity, it keeps your favorite drink just the way you like it, whether you’re relaxing on the porch or heading out for the day. Meanwhile, the dishwasher-safe, BPA-free material provides peace of mind for health-conscious consumers. Because it’s reusable, it’s also environmentally conscious. 

Measuring just under seven inches tall and a little over three inches wide, the mug fits comfortably in most cup holders, an important detail if you’re planning to take this one on-the-go.

This mug is a great way for any Dolly Parton superfan to treat themselves to a practical essential that’s packed with personality. One reviewer also noted that it makes a great present for someone special: “I bought this as a gift for a friend. She loves it.” Unlike when you gift clothing or jewelry, you don’t need to know the recipient’s sizes before you purchase this incredibly giftable Dolly Parton mug.

Related: Dolly Parton’s ‘Lovely’ Butterfly Salt and Pepper Shakers Bring Instant Joy to Humdrum Cooking Tasks

Shop More Deals

• Dolly Parton 11 x 14-Inch Reversible Rose Print Plastic Cutting Board, $13 at Amazon
• Dolly Parton Ceramic Utensil Holder, $20 (was $22) 
• Dolly Parton Pink Guitar Long-Handle Bottle Brush, $8 at Amazon

If you’re seeking a blend of star power and everyday utility, the Dolly Parton Pink Velvet Rockstar Insulated Mug delivers. Whether for personal use or as a special gift, grab one today and get a little taste of Dolly’s magic with every sip. 

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Tom Morello, the iconic guitarist behind the supergroup Audioslave and legendary rock band Rage Against the Machine, is stepping into a new chapter of his career.

From the ’90s through the 2000s, the Harlem native made a name for himself as a co-founder of both groups, but this time, he is offering a closer look at his music through his first-ever full-length solo rock album

During his guest appearance on Loudwire Nights with Chuck Armstrong, the 62-year-old musician spoke about having the “predominantly collaborative affairs” he had with Audioslave, one of the greatest supergroups, as well as Rage Against the Machine and Bruce Springsteen.

With his decades of experience creating records and a long list of albums under his name, he shared the excitement and sense of possibility he felt about creating his own solo rock album.

Tom Morello at the Pinkpop Festival 2026

Didier Messens/Redferns

“This is the first fastball down the middle, huge riff rock Tom Morello solo album [and] the 22nd record of my career,” Morello shared, adding “But it really feels very much to me like the feeling I had with the first Rage record, like the feeling I had with the first Audiosoave record, where you’re kind of on the dawn of some big ass rock that is rising to meet the day — and something that’s so artistically satisfying.”

The ’90s rock star is set to release Everyone Gets Everything They Want on Sept. 25.

Before the exciting update about his career plans, Morello gave fans a glimpse of his new album in July after releasing his official lead single, “Date Night,” a heavy rock song that showcases his signature explosive riffs and powerful rhythms.

According to him, the inspiration behind the track was a true story of three Dutch teenagers who resisted the Nazis during World War II.

“They were part of the partisan resistance against the Nazi occupation,” he shared. “They bombed bridges and trains. They helped Jewish children escape persecution and they were a thorn in the Nazi side. Two of them survived the ward, lived to a ripe old age. The youngest one, Hannie Schaft, was captured, tortured and murdered by the Nazis, but never snitched on her girls. And I wanted to write a song for them.”

Morello proudly shared that he teamed up with his son, Roman, who wrote the riff for the song.

“He’s got enough of that Morellian DNA that sometimes I go, ‘I wish I wrote that one,'” the father of two said.

In addition to “Date Night,” Morello also released the song “Adjourn It,” the third track from his 12-song album, in May, offering an early glimpse into his solo music career.

It was a collaboration between System of a Down’s Serj Tankian and Morello’s 15-year-old son.

Related: Beloved Rock Band, Formed in New York, Announces 2026 Tour With Special Guests

Michael Jackson’s daughter is entering a new chapter of her music career.

Paris Jackson has released her sophomore album, Happiest Day of My Life, nearly six years after her 2020 debut wilted.

The 11-track album arrived Friday, Aug. 21, via Republic Records, marking 28-year-old Jackson’s first full-length release since her debut. Along with the album, she released the official music video for the title track, “happiest day of my life.”

The singer has been teasing the new era with singles including “zombies in love,” “teenage drama” and “stitched (on & on).”

Paris Jackson Takes Her Music in a New Direction

Happiest Day of My Life finds Jackson leaning further into alternative and rock influences.

According to the album announcement, the singer drew inspiration from artists including The Smashing Pumpkins, Pixies, Marcy Playground and Bright Eyes while working with songwriters and producers including Linda Perry, Butch Walker and Jason Lader.

The result is a heavier sound than the one featured on wilted, with Jackson exploring themes of healing, heartbreak, self-discovery and finding light after difficult experiences.

The album includes 11 songs:

1. “teenage drama”
2. “maker”
3. “zombies in love”
4. “bang bang”
5. “happiest day of my life”
6. “evermore”
7. “sirens”
8. “ghost”
9. “gaslight”
10. “stitched (on & on)”
11. “american dream”

Jackson has described the album as being born from a “collision of sound, experience, and emotion,” with the new material showcasing a more confident and expansive side of her artistry.

Paris Jackson Is Taking the New Album on the Road

The release comes as Jackson is in the middle of her first-ever Zombies Tour across North America.

She has also been supporting The Pretty Reckless on select dates and will head to Europe and the U.K. this fall for her first-ever headline shows there.

Before the album’s release, Jackson made her debut on Good Morning America’s Summer Concert Series, where she performed “zombies in love” and “happiest day of my life.”

Her upcoming dates include shows in Atlanta, Cleveland, Toronto, Boston and New York before she heads overseas.

RELATED: Country Star Kacey Musgraces, Who Started Yodeling at 8, Turns 38

SPOILER ALERT! This article contains events from the Big Brother 28 live feeds that have yet to be aired on the television episodes. Please don’t read ahead if you prefer not to know competition winners and nominees ahead of time.

After escaping the gaze of the house for over a month, the Big Brother 28 icons are finally out in the open. Yash Patel’s HoH reign forced both of the season’s powers out of hiding, and while the bribe remains at large, Rick Devens made his count. His use of the Diamond Power of Veto pulled the mat out from Kamu Kirk, as the biggest threat in the house was suddenly on the block and out the door. And, with a new majority of seven formed, and jury on the horizon, it remains to be seen if they’ll stick together.


Here’s everything you need to know about this week on Big Brother 28, including Head of Household and veto winners, nominees, and who is likely to go.

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Who is Head of Household on Big Brother 28 this week? Dee Valladares Dee Valladares on ‘Big Brother 28’

Evan Mulling / CBS

Last week, Dee found herself in danger for the first time all season, getting put up on the block and even becoming the target at one point. But she followed up getting the Diamond Power of Veto used on her with some safety of her own, winning her second HoH of the season.

Who was nominated this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Friday to see who has been nominated for eviction this week.

Related: ‘Big Brother 28’ Cast Includes Famous Relatives, Reality Stars and More Unexpected Connections

Who won the Veto this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Saturday to find out who won the Power of Veto this week.

Was the Veto used this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Monday to find out whether the Veto was used this week.

Who will be evicted this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Tuesday or Wednesday to find out who will be voted out this week.

Who won the “BB Time Capsule” vote this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back Friday to see who entered the final week of the “BB Time Capsule,” and whether they received a previous power or punishment.

Related: ‘Big Brother 28’s Kamu Kirk Reveals the Real Reason He Started the Tea Party Conflict with Jason: ‘I Have Nothing But Respect and Love’ (Exclusive)

As news of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle‘s return to the United Kingdom continues to send shockwaves through royal circles, a friend of the Duke of Sussex is sharing the emotional reason behind the move.

Six years after stepping back as senior royals and relocating to the United States, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are officially heading back to the U.K. According to reporting by The Telegraph, the couple is set to return to Britain later this month, with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet already enrolled in a British school as the family prepares to settle into a private, non-royal home.

Although initial speculation about the sudden shift centered on a Meghan career pivot, one of Harry’s friends claims the true motivation is far more personal. The Duke of Sussex reportedly wants his children to have roots in his homeland as he continues to mend fences with the royal family.

Archie Manners told GB News, “I am in no doubt that the primary motivator of this move is the King’s health.” He added that Harry has had a “human reaction” to his estrangement from his father, King Charles, who revealed a cancer diagnosis in 2024.

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Loic Venance/AFP via Getty Images

LOIC VENANCE / AFP via Getty Images

He told the news outlet there could “probably” be “some regret on both sides of that.” Manners concluded that Harry may have come to the “realization that one day he’ll get a call saying daddy is no longer with us and he doesn’t want to have had bad blood beforehand.”

In the years since moving to the United States with Meghan and making a new life in Montecito, California, Harry has returned to Britain less than a dozen times. He has taken solo trips for court battles, Invictus Games events, and Charles’ coronation, along with brief family visits.

With Meghan, Harry returned to his homeland for Queen Elizabeth‘s funeral. The couple returned in July 2026, when they visited Highgrove House with their children to meet with King Charles III and Camilla Parker Bowles.

RELATED: King Charles Weighs in on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s U.K. Return: Report

However, royal watchers do not know the extent of the personal communication between Harry and Charles in these past six years. Additionally, there have been no formal statements from his older brother, Prince William, about the status of his relationship with his younger brother.

In the past, the Duke of Sussex shared that he wants to reconcile with his family. The BBC reported in 2025 that Harry is hopeful they can move forward.

“There have been so many disagreements between myself and some of my family,” Harry stated. “I would love reconciliation with my family. There’s no point continuing to fight anymore, life is precious.”

Related: Prince William Will Be Unable to ‘Duck a Reconciliation’ With Prince Harry After His U.K. Return: Royal Expert

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Summer may be winding down, but there’s still time to squeeze in a few more evenings outside. The Sonoma Goods For Life Lemon Solar Lantern is currently just $14 at Kohl’s, down from $25, and it’s a sunny little way to keep patios, porches, and gardens feeling summery for a bit longer. The lantern comes in a bright cyber yellow color and is shaped like a lemon, complete with green leaves and a white flower at the base. 

The lantern is made from ceramic with a plastic solar panel and can be used indoors or outside. It measures up to 5.5 inches high, 7.1 inches wide, and 5.3 inches deep, and weighs just over a pound. It uses one included rechargeable battery and comes with a light bulb, so you don’t need to buy anything extra. There’s also zero assembly required.

Sonoma Goods For Life Lemon Solar Lantern, $14 (was $25) at Kohl’s

Courtesy of Kohl's

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For anyone who isn’t quite ready to swap every sunny piece of decor for pumpkins, this lantern is a cute excuse to hold onto summer a little longer. The lemon shape adds plenty of personality to a patio, porch, or outdoor dining setup, and the flower-shaped cutouts glow when the light comes on. And since it runs on solar power, you also don’t have to worry about finding an outlet or running a cord across the yard.

One reviewer, who bought it for their lake house, called it a “great gift” and said it was “so cute and bright” in their space, while another wrote, “This lemon solar lantern is a perfect addition to my patio decor! Love it!” Both reviewers also rated it five out of five for quality, value, and style.

Related: Kohl’s Cheerful $20 Woven Sunflower Storage Basket Is the Cutest Way to Ease Into Fall Decor

As an added bonus, Kohl’s is offering a buy one, get one 50% off deal on the lantern right now, which makes it an especially tempting time to grab a pair for opposite ends of a patio or to keep one and give the second as a gift. And at $14 each before the additional BOGO offer, they’re already nearly half off their original price.

Shop More Deals

• Sonoma Goods For Life Aqua Shell Solar Lantern, $14 (was $25) at Kohl’s
• Celebrate Together Summer Wicker Fruit Solar Lantern, $16 (was $30) at Kohl’s
• Celebrate Together Summer Metal Palm Tree Lantern, $14 (was $25) at Kohl’s

The Sonoma Goods For Life Lemon Solar Lantern is down to just $14 at Kohl’s from $25, making now a pretty sweet time to pick one up. And with Kohl’s showing only a handful left, this sunny little summer find may not stick around much longer. Be sure to grab one while you can and squeeze a little more fun out of the season.

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There are times that I love looking out at the sea and the “I’ll meet you in the casino” part of travel, and then there is the travel that I do for my own well-being. It’s self-care. It may be times spent alone with my husband, connecting with a best friend, or just time alone with my thoughts. Those are the travel moments that I find meaningful, so when I’m putting the Martini Bars, the White Parties and the huge dining rooms on the back burner and putting myself first, it’s important to me to find that placce that will give me what I need. A sense of renewal, a sense of beauty, and a sense that I belong.

Related: I’m 45 and Officially Done with ‘Average’ Travel—My Soul Needed This One Luxury Weekend More Than Three Cheap Ones

Maison Felix is One of Those Places A look inside a stylish guest room at Maison Felix in North Beach, featuring cozy lounge seating and vibrant contemporary artwork.

Zippy Sandler

There is a moment when you walk into Maison Felix that feels a little like opening a secret door. Outside of the area Miami Beach as we know it today. Bigger, louder, faster and flashier. It is a place where there always seems to be somewhere to go, something to see, a reservation to make or a scene you are supposed to join.

But tucked away on a quiet street in North Beach at 7418 Harding Avenue in Miami Beach, Maison Felix feels like an escape from what so much of Miami Beach has become. It is intimate. It is beautiful. And perhaps most importantly, it is quiet enough to hear yourself think again.

Related: I Slept in a Former Textile Mill and It’s One of New England’s Best Kept Secrets

The Quieter Side of Miami Beach

Zippy Sandler

South Beach may receive most of the attention, but North Beach, or NoBe, offers a very different Miami experience. This is a neighborhood where you can walk to a local coffee shop, find a casual place for dinner and reach the beach without navigating the crowds that gather farther south. The pace feels and the surroundings are a little more residential.

Yes, you are still in Miami Beach, but now you get to experience it on your own terms. That alone makes North Beach worth discovering.

The neighborhood also holds personal memories for me. My Aunt Dora lived in North Beach, and I remember visiting her when I was a child. As I walked by the condos and apartments I could smell the cinnamon of her Pinwheel Cookies in my memory. I still recognized something familiar in the low-rise buildings and residential streets. There is a sense that people actually live here, rather than simply passing through on their way to the next party.

Related: The South Florida ‘Slow-Burn’ Shore That’s Finally Having Its Big Moment

Maison Felix Fits Beautifully Into That Atmosphere.

Zippy Sandler

The restored building dates to 1948 and has only 29 rooms and suites, so it does not feel like a traditional resort. There is no enormous lobby, cavernous restaurant or crowd of guests competing for space around the pool. Instead, it feels as though you have stumbled upon an impossibly stylish little European residence where someone has handed you a key and told you to stay awhile. That is a large part of its charm.

A Hotel With an Identity of Its Own

The rooms at Maison Felix have a boho-vintage sensibility that manages to feel both collected and completely modern. Mediterranean and coastal influences are mixed with custom furnishings, vintage mirrors, warm colors and natural textures. Nothing feels as though it came from a generic hotel catalog.

There is personality everywhere, especially in the spectacular artwork by Miami artist Mark Cherry that hangs throughout the property. This is not the kind of hotel art you barely notice while walking down a corridor. The paintings demand attention.

You stop. You look. You notice.

The artwork is available for purchase, although it may be difficult to decide which piece you want to take home. Each contributes to the hotel’s sense of place and makes the rooms and shared spaces feel more like a private collection.

Miami has no shortage of beautiful hotels, but many of them seem determined to impress you immediately. They announce themselves through enormous floral arrangements, dramatic lobbies, velvet ropes and restaurants where securing a table can feel like an accomplishment.

Maison Felix does not need to prove itself that way.

It is artistic without being pretentious and luxurious without shouting about it. Its beauty reveals itself gradually, in the textures, colors, paintings and small details you begin noticing once you slow down.

And slowing down is precisely what this hotel encourages you to do.

The Pool is the Heart of Maison Felix

Zippy Sandler

Then there is the pool.

The ground floor rooms open to the pool through a sliding glass door and small glass-walled space, which meant that each morning I could push back the curtains to look outside and see this beautiful oasis waiting for me in the courtyard along with bistro tables and chairs by each entrance to the pool that look like they came straight from a sidewalk in Cassis or Marseille to sit and have my coffee or read a book.

The courtyard pool is surrounded by lush greenery, with loungers tucked beneath palms and umbrellas. The rooms all wrap around the courtyard, creating a sense that the pool belongs to a private home rather than a hotel. Maison Felix feels protected from the world beyond its walls.

Zippy Sandler

There are no waterslides, DJs or rows of guests saving chairs at sunrise. Instead, this is a pool made for reading, talking and doing absolutely nothing without feeling guilty about it. You can find a lounger beneath the palms, open the book that has been sitting half-read on your nightstand for months and finally make it past the third chapter. You can take a quiet swim, close your eyes in the sunshine or catch up with someone you love without competing with music and surrounding conversations.

For couples, it’s a place to reconnect after realizing that everyday routines have slowly replaced meaningful conversation. For good friends, it is a place to claim a pair of loungers and talk until you suddenly discover that three hours have passed. For solo travelers, it provides something even more valuable. Space to be alone without feeling lonely.

But I think Maison Felix may be most special as that place to come back to yourself.

Zippy Sandler

Slow Mornings Are Built Into the Stay

There is a small gym if you feel the need to work out, although I personally think walking to the beach and back should count for something.

There is also a lovely breakfast room where mornings begin slowly, exactly as vacation mornings should. A barista prepares coffee drinks while the continental breakfast includes choices such as Suja and Pressed juices, giant croissants, cookies and quiche from a local bakery.

It’s an easy, unhurried way to begin the day.

Have another coffee. Take your croissant to the bistro table outside your room. Decide what you want to do, or decide that you do not want to decide anything yet.

The entire experience feels extremely European. Not European in the themed-hotel sense, but in the way the days invite you to linger. Meals do not need to be rushed. Coffee is allowed to become an activity. Sitting beside a pool with nowhere else to be is considered a perfectly worthwhile way to spend an afternoon. That may be the real luxury here.

We have become accustomed to treating vacations like assignments. We make lists, reserve time slots and fill every hour because we are afraid of missing something. Then we return home exhausted and wonder why our vacation did not feel more restful. Maison Felix presents another possibility.

You can sleep late. Drink your coffee slowly. Sit beside the pool without feeling as though you should be doing something more productive. Walk to the beach. Read. Think. Talk. Take a nap. Do absolutely nothing.

There is something wonderfully indulgent about giving yourself permission to stop performing your life for a little while and simply live it.

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Zippy Sandler

And Then There’s the Beach

Staying at here does not mean isolating yourself from Miami Beach. Quite the opposite. One of the hotel’s greatest charms is that everything is close when you want it, but you can retreat when you have had enough.

The ocean is about a seven-minute walk away. Guests can access loungers and an umbrella, making it easy to spend the morning on the sand (or if you’re like me, sitting at the water’s edge letting the small waves lap over your legs) before returning to the calm of the hotel.

Because it is a public beach, you will want to bring a towel and anything you plan to drink or snack on. But, you’ll pass lovely bakeries, coffee shops and head to Walgreens on the way for your sun block. There is no elaborate resort operation on the sand, and that is part of the appeal. You can enjoy the water, feel the sand beneath your feet and experience a less commercial side of Miami Beach.

North Shore Open Space Park is also nearby, offering a palm-lined place to walk along the water. Collins Avenue has casual restaurants, coffee shops and low-key bars, while neighboring Surfside and Bal Harbour provide additional shopping and dining possibilities.

Maison Felix does not have a traditional full-service restaurant, but I did not find the lack of a large restaurant inconvenient. There are places to eat within walking distance, and exploring them becomes part of experiencing the neighborhood.

South Beach, the Design District, Wynwood and Little Havana are still available when you want more movement, music and color. You can spend the day exploring Miami, have dinner in another part of the city and then return to North Beach. There is something wonderful about stepping away from all that is South Beach and slipping back through the entrance to your sanctuary.

Related: The Golden Rules of Stress-Free Cruising, According to a Lifelong Traveler

Zippy Sandler

A Different Kind of Miami Vacation

Miami is exhilarating, but it can also be exhausting. Maison Felix gives you permission to experience the city differently. You can dip into Miami’s energy when you want it and then return somewhere that feels protected from the noise.

There are trips we take because we want to see something new, and there are trips we take because we need to feel like ourselves again. Maison Felix feels made for both.

It is the kind of place that makes you want to finish that book, call an old friend or sit quietly with your own thoughts. It is ideal for someone who has spent too much time taking care of everyone and everything else and needs to remember what it feels like to have nothing expected of her.

Sometimes renewal does not require a wellness retreat, a complicated itinerary or a week of scheduled treatments. Sometimes it is a beautiful room, a quiet pool, a croissant and coffee in the morning, a book in your hand and nowhere you need to be. Sometimes it is walking to the beach, letting the ocean wash over your feet and returning to a room that feels more like a private residence than a hotel. And sometimes it is simply remembering that you are worth taking this time for yourself.

Perhaps the most unexpected thing about Maison Felix is that it does not merely feel like a place to stay in Miami Beach. It feels like a place to renew and rejuvenate the soul. A place to remember what it is like to move slowly, notice beautiful things and have absolutely nothing expected of you.

In a city that has become very good at screaming for your attention, Maison Felix whispers. Maybe that is exactly why I loved it.

It feels like finding a secret door in Miami Beach, opening it and discovering a world you never expected to be there. And for a few days, you get to make that world your own.

Related: After 20 Years Away, I Returned to Providence and Found The Secret Spots For Those Over 50

The world’s oldest person is officially 117 years old. Ethel Caterham celebrated her milestone birthday among family and friends at the Hallmark Lakeview Care Home in England.

Despite her age, Caterham revealed in a statement that the past year had “many firsts” for her, including meeting King Charles III.

Related: Iconic Hollywood Bombshell Who Performed With Dean Martin Dies at 93

“Thank you for all of the kind birthday wishes. Even at 117, I’ve had many firsts this year, from stroking a llama to holding hands with the King,” she wrote. “I’ve had a lovely day celebrating with my family and friends, and I look forward to seeing what next year brings.”

The King visited Caterham in September 2025, shortly after her 116th birthday, and presented her with a signed card.

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Caterham officially became the world’s oldest woman in April 2025, following the death of Brazilian nun Sister Inah Canabarro Lucas at 116 years old. However, Caterham is not the oldest living woman in history… yet. That honor goes to a French woman by the name of Jeanne Calment, who lived to 122 years and 164 days, as reported by Guinness World Records.

According to The Mirror, Caterham was born on August 21, 1909, and was the youngest of eight siblings. Caterham met her husband, Norman, in India, where she was working as an au pair, in 1931. Sadly, he passed away in 1976.

She raised two daughters, Gem and Anne, but they both also died before her. Caterham has three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, drove until she was 97, and survived COVID in 2020.

Caterham’s granddaughter wrote a sweet tribute on her 110th birthday and revealed her secret to living a long life.

“When asked what her secret sauce is for long life, she always says keeping positive. But I also think it’s that she stays present. She doesn’t retreat into the past; she is bang up to date, and she loves a matching shoe and bag combo – and her dress was way nicer than all of ours at her party,” she wrote. “All in all, she’s just a force of nature and makes you feel that you can do stuff, because she bloody well is.”

We have a feeling she will be the next Guinness World Record holder!

It’s not uncommon for classics to have multiple versions by different artists, as Rudy Clark composed “It’s In His Kiss,” sung by Merry Clayton, and became a standout hit in the ’60s and ’90s.

Some may know “It’s in His Kiss” also as “The Shoop Shoop Song,” and it was originally released in 1963 by Clayton. The track was released years before she would become known for her powerful vocals in the duet with Mick Jagger for “Gimme Shelter.” Sadly, her version of the 1963 song failed to enter the charts. It wasn’t until a year later, when it was covered by Betty Everett, that the song reached its first wave of success.

It was reported that Calvin Carter, the chief A&R man for the Chicago-located Vee-Jay Records, was in New York looking for new material for the company. With Everett having had success covering “You’re No Good,” Carter felt “It’s In His Kiss” was the perfect follow-up. The singer originally thought the track was childish, but agreed anyway to record it.

Carter was right when Everett’s version landed at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. At the time, Billboard didn’t have an R&B chart, but her cover landed at No. 1 in the genre. “It’s In His Kiss” would go through a few more covers, like Linda Lewis’s, which became the first major UK hit and just bubbled under the Billboard Hot 100. Her version was instead a disco track thanks to the suggestion of Clive Davis wanting to rework a classic.

Fast forward decades, and the original pop track would gain a resurgence in 1990 thanks to Cher. The music icon covered the track as part of the 1990 family comedy-drama Mermaids, in which she starred. “It’s in His Kiss” was played during the closing credits of the film and was released to coincide with its November release. Cher’s cover would land her at No.1 in the UK, her first chart-topper as a solo artist. It would also land at No. 33 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topped the charts internationally.

Peter Asher produced the track with Cher and revealed in an interview with SongFacts that the track was already scheduled to appear in the film.

“The song was already chosen. They were going to sing it in the movie anyway and they just wanted a proper record version for the end titles,” he said.

“That one I cut without Cher’s input entirely. I just did it the way I thought she should do it. I had one conversation with Cher about the key, and that was it. And then she showed up and it was all done. She liked it, luckily.”

The producer also explained that he never recorded the track with Linda Ronstadt, but she “used to sing it sometimes.” Ronstadt and Phoebe Snow performed “The Shoop Shoop Song” as a duet in 1979 for an episode of Saturday Night Live, with the former later recording it for her Mad Love album.

Related: 1964 Pop Song, Covered by Dolly Parton 20 Years Later, Became a No. 1 International Hit

The Rolling Stones‘ “Start Me Up” just picked up a fresh accolade more than four decades after it hit radio: Billboard ranked it No. 21 on its staff list of the 100 best No. 2 hits in Hot 100 history, published this month.

The song never actually made it to No. 1. It spent three weeks stalled at the runner-up spot in the fall of 1981, held off the top by Christopher Cross’s “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do).” Billboard’s staff singled it out anyway, crediting Keith Richards’ opening riff and Mick Jagger’s vocal delivery for a sound where “it’s the energy of the Rolling Stones incarnate.”

That riff took an unusually long road to get there. The track dates back to sessions nearly a decade earlier, when the band first attempted it as a reggae number during the mid-to-late 1970s and quietly shelved it. Richards has said the problem was never coming up with the song, it was finishing it.

It was engineer Chris Kimsey who eventually rescued the track. While digging through old tapes ahead of 1981’s Tattoo You, he found an early rock-leaning take buried among the reggae versions and brought it back to the band. Jagger later gave Richards full credit for the foundation of the song, telling Rolling Stone, “It was Keith’s great riff, and I wrote the rest.”

Once released, “Start Me Up” became the Stones’ biggest U.S. hit of the 1980s. It spent 13 weeks atop Billboard’s Mainstream Rock chart, a record that stood until 1994, and later found a second life in 1995 when Microsoft licensed it for the launch of Windows 95. The band has opened concerts with it ever since, including their 2006 Super Bowl halftime show.

Nearly 45 years after almost being left in a vault for good, “Start Me Up” is still finding new reasons to get talked about.

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Late summer and early fall can bring plenty of unpredictable rain, making now a smart time to have a reliable rain jacket on hand. You don’t need to spend a fortune to find one that keeps you dry, either. The right option can balance weather protection, comfort, and style while giving you something you’ll reach for well beyond the season.

One great option is the Gidhrie Hooded Waterproof Rain Jacket. Right now, it’s 48% off at Walmart, bringing the price down from $36 to just $19. For a practical layer you can use for everything from rainy commutes to weekend outings, that’s a pretty great deal.

Gidhrie Hooded Waterproof Rain Jacket, From $19 (was $36) at Walmart 

Courtesy of Walmart

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The jacket comes in black, purple, and white and is available in sizes medium through XXL. Its waterproof, windproof fabric is designed to protect against heavy rain and harsh weather while remaining lightweight and easy to pack. The adjustable hood, functional inner and outer pockets, and compact design make it especially handy when you’re dealing with unpredictable forecasts.

Thoughtful details make it easy to adjust to changing conditions. The hood and hem can be tightened for a more secure fit, while elastic cuffs help keep rain and chilly air from getting in. The hood is also detachable, so you can remove it when you don’t need the extra coverage. Despite the protective design, the lightweight fabric is made for comfortable wear without feeling bulky or restrictive.

Related: Keen’s ‘Ridiculously Comfortable’ Hiking Boots Are 52% Off Just in Time for Sweater-Weather Hikes

It’s versatile enough for plenty of everyday activities, too. Wear it for hiking, camping, commuting, running errands, casual outings, or outdoor events when rain is in the forecast. Since it folds down easily, you can keep it in a backpack or larger bag and have it ready whenever the weather takes a turn.

One reviewer described it as “nice quality,” adding, “It has a thick material, but isn’t too heavy. It offers plenty of protection and has many closures to keep you covered and the rain out.” Another said it’s “totally water-resistant” and has a “lightweight lining,” adding, “This is a great everyday basic jacket that will be your new go-to outwear!”

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• Rosvigor Lightweight Color Block Raincoat, $17 (was 29) at Walmart
• Sexy Dance Athletic Zip-Up Jacket, $14 (was $30) at Walmart

For an affordable layer that combines weather protection with everyday versatility, the Gidhrie Hooded Waterproof Rain Jacket is a great pick. And with Walmart’s current 48% discount, you can save over $15 and grab this practical rainy-day staple for just $19.

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.

After more than six decades of continuous touring, one of the foundational groups of the British Invasion has officially decided to park their tour bus for good.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees The Hollies announced their complete retirement from live performances via Instagram. This brings an end to a road run that matched The Rolling Stones for pure longevity.

The decision stems from an emotional pact between the band’s last two classic-era members. Lead guitarist Tony Hicks, 80, who joined in early 1963, made the difficult choice to step away due to health reasons. Following, drummer Bobby Elliott, 84, who also joined the band in ’63, refused to continue without his lifelong bandmate.

The band shared the following message in an official statement. It read, “Due to health reasons, Tony has decided to step away from touring.”

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The statement continued, “Out of respect for Tony and everything they have shared throughout their remarkable journey together, Bobby has also decided to retire from touring. After more than six decades, The Hollies’ touring career will come to a close with immense gratitude to the fans who have supported them around the world.”

Fan response was bittersweet. “This is gutting. Lots of love to Tony and Bobby who have worked their socks off over the past 60+ years, to put it lightly! One of the greatest bands of the era. Very sorry I never saw you. Happy retirement,” wrote one follower.

A second fan penned, “I am very saddened to hear this, but I know there will come a time for all of us, including our rock music legends, to get our hard-earned rest and prioritize our health. We all owe you a huge thanks and gratitude for all of the six long decades of dedicating to all of your fans by delivering great music. Thank you all so much.”

The Hollies band: Graham Nash, Bernie Calvert, Bobby Elliott, Tony Hicks and Allan Clarke/Ivan Keeman/Redferns

A third Instagram user penned, “I’m disappointed to hear this, but I completely understand. I hope Tony and Bobby, as well as everyone else who are still associated with The Hollies, or not anymore, stay healthy as well. I’ll always stay loyal to this amazing group, always spread their great music around to people of all generations, and of course, keep on bumping their great tunes!”

Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010, the Manchester-born group persevered through original singer Allan Clarke‘s exit and Graham Nash‘s high-profile departure to co-found Crosby, Stills & Nash. Through line-up changes and eras, Hicks and Elliott remained the beating heart of the live show, and The Hollies remained one of the few early-1960s British acts to tour virtually every year for over six decades.

For millions of classic rock fans who grew up on the band’s rock anthems like “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother.” “The Air That I Breathe,” “Bus Stop,” and “Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress),” the decision marks the bittersweet close of a legendary era. Beyond the charts, the band’s three-part harmonies and songwriting shaped the very DNA of modern pop-rock.

Sixty years is an unprecedented run for any band, but the choice for The Hollies members to step away together makes their final live bow feel complete. By prioritizing their bond over one last tour, Tony Hicks and Bobby Elliott leave behind a friendship and performance legacy that will forever live in rock music infamy.

Related: 1977 Country Gold Hit, Written by a 20-Year-Old Future Jimmy Buffett Collaborator, Launched a 50-Year Legacy Career

For theme park fans and California coaster enthusiasts who’ve spent years anxiously tracking construction walls, testing footage, and opening delays, the wait is officially over.

Knott’s Berry Farm has officially reopened one of the most iconic attractions in its history, relaunching the legendary Montezooma’s Revenge as MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortress.

Originally debuting in 1978 as the world’s very first flywheel-launched roller coaster, the historic ride has thrilled generations with its signature zero-to-55-mph launch in just four seconds, soaring into a 76-foot vertical loop before shooting up a towering 148-foot spike and reversing backward through the station.

Now, following an extensive, multi-year revitalization project, the classic ride returns with a host of 21st-century upgrades designed to ensure its place in the park for decades to come.

Related: Knott’s Soak City Unveils Two First-of-Their-Kind Water Rides Debuting in 2027

Montezooma Revenge B-Roll (1:31) What’s New Inside the Forbidden Fortress

Knott's Berry Farm

Rather than simply restoring the vintage track, Knott’s undertook a comprehensive modernization effort to elevate both comfort and reliability while keeping the coaster’s beloved layout intact.

The reimagined attraction features:

• All-New Trains & Track Restoration: Brand-new ride vehicles alongside fully refurbished track sections and structural supports for a smoother ride.
• Modern Motorized Launch: An innovative new motorized launch system designed to maximize daily performance and eliminate maintenance headaches.
• Immersive Temple Storytelling: A new narrative surrounding a mysterious forbidden temple and the lost treasure of Montezooma, taking riders on a story-driven journey from the queue through the launch sequence.

“MonteZOOMa has been part of the Knott’s experience for generations of guests,” said Raffi Kaprelyan, park president of Knott’s Berry Farm. “Our goal was to preserve everything people love about this legendary coaster while introducing new technology, enhanced reliability and an immersive new story that will inspire a whole new generation to ride.”

Related: America’s Newest High-Speed Amusement Park Finally Has an Official Opening Date

Fans React to the Coaster’s Return

Knott's Berry Farm

As news of the official opening hit social media, long-time park fans and nostalgic riders quickly flooded the comments to celebrate the return of a California staple.

“Rode it last weekend. Loved it,” shared one parkgoer, while another praised the ride’s enhanced intensity, adding, “It’s actually scary 😍but good ! 10/10.”

For many guests, the ride’s return is also a trip down memory lane: “My first ever looping roller coaster and I got a jaguar interaction as well. 🥹🥹🥹” wrote another commenter, while coaster buffs praised the updated aesthetic, noting, “The theming is a major improvement.”

Related: Six Flags Just Revealed Its Biggest Halloween Lineup Ever—Featuring ‘Friday the 13th,’ ‘Final Destination,’ and ‘The Blair Witch Project’

How to Ride for Less

The ride’s grand reopening aligns with the launch of Knott’s 2027 Gold Season Pass rollout, offering unlimited admission for the rest of 2026 and the entire 2027 season at the lowest locked-in price point.

Beyond unlimited access to MonteZOOMa, passholders also receive admission to Knott’s seasonal festivals, neighboring Knott’s Soak City Waterpark (which debuts two new family raft slides, Coral Craze and Kelp Kraze, in 2027), and regional access across West Coast Six Flags properties like Six Flags Magic Mountain.

Whether you grew up braving the original launch or are introducing a new generation to backward loops, one of America’s true coaster legends is officially back on track.

Related: Six Flags Is Turning ‘Final Destination’ Into a Maze—With a Gruesome Twist

“Incense and Peppermints” became a defining soundtrack to the psychedelic era, but the voice behind it didn’t actually belong to a member of Strawberry Alarm Clock.

Released in 1967, the kaleidoscopic rocker featured lead vocals from Greg Munford, a 16 year-old California singer who happened to be at the studio when the song was recorded. His performance helped turn an unusual collection of swirling keyboards, fuzzed-out guitars, and surreal lyrics into an enduring hit.

The song had an equally unconventional beginning.

Its music grew out of an instrumental by band members Mark Weitz and Ed King, while lyricists John S. Carter and Tim Gilbert supplied the words.

“When the music was written by myself in early ’67 at my home in Van Nuys California, with my request for some help on the bridge of the song from Ed King, it was mid day, and no drugs were involved whatsoever,” Weitz later recalled. “I came up with this musical idea and chord progressions that evolved that afternoon in a short time to what basically was recorded with some minimal editing to cut down the almost 5 minute original down to 3 minutes and change. As for the lyrics, that was the brainchild of John Carter. Carter was under contract with Frank Slay also as a producer.”

The band’s members weren’t particularly enthusiastic about the lyrics, and none wanted to sing them. Munford, who sang with another local group, the Shapes, was brought in to handle the vocal instead.

“We didn’t really know him,” Weitz told Crazy On Classic Rock. “Somebody said, ‘Hey Greg, Why don’t you get up there and try singing this,’ because he had his own band and he was starting his own band and so we ran the track and Greg sang the lead vocal and he sounded the best at it and we kept it and to this day Greg’s voice is on ‘Incense and Peppermints.'”

That impromptu decision produced an unmistakable performance.

Munford’s youthful voice cuts through the track’s dense psychedelic arrangement, delivering abstract lines that perfectly suited the increasingly experimental sound of 1967. Although he wasn’t a member of Strawberry Alarm Clock, his vocal became forever associated with the band’s signature recording.

“Incense and Peppermints” soon traveled far beyond California’s psychedelic rock scene.

After initially appearing as the B-side of “The Birdman of Alkatrash,” the song attracted attention from radio DJs and was subsequently promoted as the main attraction. It climbed all the way to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, spending one week at the top and giving Strawberry Alarm Clock its biggest hit.

The band followed its breakthrough with songs including “Tomorrow” and “Sit With the Guru,” but nothing matched the cultural footprint of “Incense and Peppermints.” The track has remained a familiar presence on oldies and psychedelic rock playlists and has surfaced repeatedly in movies, television, and other celebrations of late-’60s counterculture.

“We really, really appreciate the idea that people are still interested in us and we don’t take that lightly,” bassist George Bunnell told Goldmine in 2025. “When we play at the Whisky A Go Go every year, our audience is young. Many of them are under thirty. They all look like they’re ten to us. They’re singing the lyrics to our old songs, and now they’re singing the lyrics to the newer songs as well.”

Fifty-nine years later, “Incense and Peppermints” still captures the colorful experimentation of its era. And behind one of 1967’s most recognizable psychedelic hits was an unexpected voice: a 16 year-old California singer who wasn’t even part of the band.

Related: 1975 Soft Rock Song, Inspired by George Harrison, Is Still a Beloved Hit 51 Years Later

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Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, it never hurts to give your kitchen a refresh. If you want to make your time in the kitchen more efficient, a utensil crock is an easy upgrade. Placed by your stove or prep area, it’ll give you easy access to your spatulas, tongs, and ladles without having to deal with overstuffed drawers. Those adorned with chic designs are the best options, doubling as a stylish accent that’ll elevate your space. You can find a ton of budget-friendly options at Amazon that seamlessly blend style, practicality, and quality. 

One of our favorite finds is this Swkien Checkered Utensil Crock, and it’s currently on sale at Amazon for a limited time. Normally retailing for $30, this checkered crock is now marked down to just $25 in three colorways, including black and white, red and white, and yellow and white. This is a deal that you won’t want to miss because, according to reviewers, it’s “very much like the MacKenzie-Childs’ version,” which sells for quadruple the price.  

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♬ Pretty (Sped Up) – MEYY Swkien Checkered Utensil Crock, From $25 (was $30) at Amazon

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Retro and whimsical, this crock boasts an eye-catching checkered design with a frosted finish that gives it a matte look. It’ll give your kitchen counter a chic accent, evoking a sense of nostalgia and making it feel like a classic diner. 

Cooking utensils like spatulas, whisks, and wooden spoons are bulky and unnecessarily take up way too much drawer space. If your compartments are currently cluttered or filled to the brim, this crock is a simple storage solution. It can help you streamline your drawers and give you a ton of space back, while allowing you to easily grab your utensils, making meal prep and cooking a lot more convenient.  

Measuring 7.2 inches tall with a 6-inch diameter, this vessel can easily hold 10 to 15 utensils and gadgets. Many reviewers were amazed by the size, commenting that it was able to fit a lot more than they thought it could. 

“It holds a lot of kitchen utensils which frees up space in my kitchen drawers,” one reviewer raved. Another shopper commented that it’s “adorable and adds charm” to their kitchen. The same shopper also said that “it keeps everything organized and within easy reach.”

Swkien Checkered Utensil Crock, From $25 (was $30) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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This crock is made of ceramic, and numerous customers noted that the quality is top-notch and added that it feels very sturdy. Each piece is handmade and hand colored, giving it a unique feel that adds to its artisanal charm. The base of this crock is equipped with a cork pad, protecting your surfaces from scratches and dents. It also keeps the crock stable and prevents it from slipping. 

While intended for utensils, this crock isn’t limited to the kitchen. Gorgeous and trendy, it’ll look fabulous in any part of your home. You can use it as a vase, ice bucket, or even an umbrella stand. Alternatively, it could help you organize paintbrushes, office supplies, beauty tools, or anything else you see fit! 

This crock is also available in a pink and white style, which is currently at full price. You can also grab a two-piece set with a small and large crock. Those normally retail for $40 and are now on sale for $36. 

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Just as decorative as it is practical, the Swkien Checkered Utensil Crock is a fantastic investment worth adding to your kitchen. Head to Amazon and snag it on sale for just $25. Be sure to hurry because it’ll be available at this fantastic price for a limited time! 

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