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What if a piece of technology could have changed the course of the Nancy Guthrie investigation?

The CEO behind one of the country’s most controversial surveillance technologies believes that’s exactly what could have happened. In an exclusive interview with Vanity Fair, Flock Safety CEO Garrett Langley said his company’s technology would have given investigators the tools they needed to solve the case, expressing complete confidence that it could have made a difference in the search for the missing 84-year-old.

“We would have solved that case,” Langley told the outlet. “One hundred percent. There’s no doubt in my mind.”

Per the report, “Flock had no contract with Pima County in Arizona.”

Flock cameras are automated license plate-reading cameras that capture images of passing vehicles and can record details such as a car’s license plate, make, model and color. Police departments and other organizations can use the cameras to search for vehicles that may be connected to an investigation and determine whether a particular car was in a certain area at a specific time.

But the technology has also sparked privacy concerns because it can collect information about people who aren’t suspected of committing a crime.

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Investigators are still working to find out what happened to Guthrie, who went missing back on Feb. 1. Authorities believe that she was abducted from her home in the middle of the night. So far, no suspects have been named and the department hasn’t shared any information that would suggest that significant progress is being made in the case.

Guthrie’s daughter, Savannah Guthrie, has renewed pleas for help on social media, asking that anyone with any information come forward in hopes of solving this case.

READ NEXT: New Information in Guthrie Case Could Mark Major Turning Point, History Suggests

In 1967, Barry Hay joined a rising Dutch rock band called the Golden Earrings (later changed to simply Golden Earring). Within a few years, the group would be sharing stages with some of rock’s biggest names, and Hay would become the voice behind one of the most enduring driving songs ever recorded.

On Aug. 16, the longtime Golden Earring frontman celebrates his 78th birthday.

Hay was born Aug. 16, 1948, in Faizabad, India, to a Dutch mother and Scottish father. After his parents divorced, he moved to the Netherlands with his mother at age 8, eventually attending the Royal Academy of Art in The Hague.

Music soon became his calling. After getting his start with a band called The Haigs, Hay joined the Golden Earrings in the late 1960s, replacing singer Frans Krassenburg.

The band’s official biography notes that Hay’s arrival gave the group another advantage as it set its sights beyond the Netherlands: The India-born singer spoke fluent English.

Hay also became Golden Earring’s flute player almost by accident. When he joined the band, its 1967 single “Sound of the Screaming Day” featured a flute part, but Hay recalled in a 2014 interview with Classic Rock Music Writer that he needed “something instead of just standing there onstage.” His bandmates gave him a flute and one week to learn the part.

Hay initially learned only what he needed for that song, but eventually began playing more. “I’ll do a solo once in awhile,” he said of bringing out the instrument during Golden Earring’s live shows.

In 1969, Golden Earring became the first Dutch band to tour America, according to the band’s official biography.

During that groundbreaking trip, the group shared bills with an extraordinary collection of artists, including Led Zeppelin, John Lee Hooker, Joe Cocker, MC5 and Sun Ra.

Hay later remembered Golden Earring playing two shows with Led Zeppelin at Detroit’s Grande Ballroom, calling the experience a “mindbender.” He was particularly struck by John Bonham, whose drumming Hay remembered as unlike anyone else’s at the time.

More major opportunities followed. In 1972, Golden Earring toured Europe as the special guest of The Who, an experience that helped the band make valuable industry connections and ultimately land a deal with Track Records, the label associated with The Who and Jimi Hendrix.

Then came the song that changed everything.

Golden Earring released Moontan in 1973, featuring “Radar Love.” The song became a No. 1 hit in the Netherlands before breaking internationally and eventually climbing to No. 13 in the United States.

The success sent Golden Earring back across the Atlantic, where the band toured extensively and shared stages with the likes of The Doobie Brothers, Aerosmith, Santana and ZZ Top.

In June 1974, Hay and his bandmates even performed at New York City’s Madison Square Garden with The Who.

“Radar Love” proved remarkably durable. In the decades that followed, it became a rock-radio staple and was covered by artists including U2, White Lion, Ministry and Def Leppard.

Golden Earring nearly called it quits at the beginning of the 1980s, but instead decided to make what was intended to be one final album.

That album, titled Cut, arrived in 1982 and contained “Twilight Zone,” written by guitarist George Kooymans.

The song gave Golden Earring its first major international hit since “Radar Love,” while its cinematic music video received heavy rotation on the relatively young MTV. The unexpected resurgence prompted the band to scrap its plans to break up and return to America, where it toured with Rush.

Golden Earring continued recording and performing for decades afterward, ultimately releasing 25 studio albums and scoring nearly 30 top 10 singles in the Netherlands.

Hay also pursued projects outside the band, releasing solo albums and collaborating with other musicians. His work ranged from rock to big-band music, and he even provided voices for Dutch-language versions of animated films and television shows.

Golden Earring’s remarkable run finally came to an abrupt end in 2021 after Kooymans was diagnosed with ALS. Rather than continue without their longtime guitarist, the band announced that its active career was over.

The story received one final chapter in 2026 with One Last Night, a farewell event featuring Hay and surviving Golden Earring members Rinus Gerritsen and Cesar Zuiderwijk alongside other Dutch artists.

Nearly six decades after he first joined the band, Hay remains forever linked to the voice that turned “Radar Love,” “Twilight Zone” and other Golden Earring favorites into rock-radio staples.

Related: Founding Member of Legendary ’70s Rock Band, Who Turned Down Jimi Hendrix, Turns 80

If you’ve ever stood in the atrium of a Disney cruise ship or watched the vessel glide away from port, you know that the magic begins long before you reach open water. From the breathtaking bronze statues anchoring each ship’s grand lobby to the whimsical gold character sculptures decorating the stern, Disney Cruise Line has turned nautical design into high-art storytelling.

Now, future voyagers have an enchanting new reason to start planning their late-2027 getaways.

During the star-studded “Horizons: D23 Disney Experiences Showcase” in Anaheim, Walt Disney Imagineering Portfolio Executive Creative Director Claire Weiss took the stage with host Neil Patrick Harris to unveil the signature character art, hull details, and stunning central icon for the fleet’s next Wish-class vessel: the Disney Believe.

Related: Disney Reveals Next New Cruise Ship Disney Believe Arriving 2027

A Wayfinding Spirit in the Grand Hall

Disney Cruise Line

Like sister ships the Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, and Disney Destiny, the Disney Believe is anchored by a three-story central gathering space inspired by timeless Disney animation. On this ship, the atrium will be infused with the rich colors, textures, and ocean voyages of the South Pacific.

Front and center in the Grand Hall, a bronze cast statue will welcome guests as they step aboard: Moana, flanked by her faithful sidekicks Pua and Heihei.

“I’m excited to officially announce that Moana will be the Grand Hall icon on the Disney Believe,” Weiss announced to the D23 crowd. “Hers is an epic adventure story that is all about exploring the seas and believing in yourself. So she couldn’t be a more perfect fit for this ship. And I cannot wait for you all to see her in person.”

Surrounding Moana, the space will feature artisanal Polynesian architectural finishes that celebrate the cultural traditions and oceanic folklore of her island home.

Related: Readers Voted This Iconic Fleet the No. 1 ‘World’s Best’ Cruise Line (Again!)

Whimsical New Hull Art from Bow to Stern

Disney Parks Blog

The exterior of the ship will carry on Disney’s signature tradition of playful character sculptures:

• On the Stern: Stealing the show on the back of the vessel are larger-than-life sculptures of Woody and Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story. In a charming, toy-sized twist, the duo will appear working together to write out the ship’s name using giant yellow crayons in a playful, block-style font.
• On the Bow: The front filigree will showcase Tinker Bell as she first appeared in the 1953 classic Peter Pan, surrounded by swirling golden pixie dust and the soaring silhouettes of Peter, Wendy, and Captain Hook.

As Weiss shared during the showcase, “The Disney Believe is the fourth ship in our Wish class. She’s really going to bring to life her own signature identity. This ship celebrates belief in magic, in family, the power of nature, and believing in yourself. And all of the stories we’ll tell onboard are really tied together by this core Disney belief of believing in something fantastical.”

With venues and experiences drawing inspiration from Encanto, Frozen, Snow White, and The Little Mermaid, the Disney Believe is shaping up to be an extraordinary dream for cruise lovers when she officially sets sail in late 2027.

Related: Disney Cruise Line Just Extended Its Huge Discount—Here’s How to Save Up to $1,500

James Cameron turns 72 today, and if his career is any indication, the “Box Office King” isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

Cameron got his start directing The Terminator in 1984, a film he famously sold the concept for to producer Gale Anne Hurd for just $1, on one condition: he got to direct it. The gamble paid off. The film turned Arnold Schwarzenegger into a star and Cameron into one of Hollywood’s hottest new directors.

From there, he kept building. Aliens, The Abyss and Terminator 2: Judgment Day followed, each one bigger and bolder than the last. Then came Titanic in 1997, an epic so ambitious that many in Hollywood doubted it would even turn a profit. Instead, it became the first film to cross $1 billion at the box office and swept 11 Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director for Cameron himself.

He wasn’t done breaking records. In 2009, Avatar redefined what a movie could look like, pioneering new 3D technology and becoming the highest-grossing film of all time, a title it still holds today. He followed it up with Avatar: The Way of Water in 2022, giving him an almost unbelievable stat: three of the four highest-grossing films in cinema history all carry his name.

Those numbers keep climbing, too. As of earlier this year, Cameron’s films have crossed a combined $10 billion at the global box office, making him only the second director ever to hit that mark, trailing just Steven Spielberg.

Director Oliver Stone once summed up why Cameron keeps topping himself: “Cameron has broken new ground; he’s a visionary. I think he’s a genius.”

Beyond the director’s chair, Cameron has spent decades chasing adventure in real life, too, becoming the first person to complete a solo dive to the deepest point in the ocean, the Challenger Deep in the Mariana Trench.

At 72, with Avatar 4 already in the works, it doesn’t look like James Cameron is anywhere close to finished making history.

When it comes to diet and heart health, your focus is likely on what’s on your plate—not what’s in your glass. 

Especially if cardiovascular disease runs in your family or you know you have high blood pressure or cholesterol, you probably already know that foods like deli meat, pork, French fries and packaged baked goods should only be enjoyed occasionally. Maybe you’re making a conscious effort to eat more plant-based foods and lean proteins to support your cardiovascular health.

Related: Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Blood Pressure When You Sit Outside All Day in the Heat, According to a Cardiologist

What you eat certainly impacts heart health, but so does what you drink. For example, did you know that drinking soda regularly is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure? Unfortunately, diet soda is also linked to some pretty detrimental health risks, including heart attacks, strokes and cardiovascular mortality. 

There’s another type of drink that could be straining your heart, and it’s particularly popular this time of year.

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The ‘Healthy’ Drink That Could Be Straining Your Heart

According to data published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics that took into account more than 25,000 US adults, almost one in four US adults consumes sports or energy drinks at least once a week. Sports drinks are particularly popular during the summer, when more people are seeking out beverages that help replenish electrolytes lost through sweating.

For many people—specifically athletes and others who may be sweating a lot—sports drinks are a beneficial way to stay hydrated. But if you don’t live an active lifestyle and sports drinks are your beverage of choice, you could be unknowingly straining your heart. 

“Children and people who are not engaging in extended physical activity generally don’t need sports drinks and may be getting unnecessary added sugars and calories,” says registered dietitian Allison Stowell, RD. 

Related: The ‘Healthy’ Drink That’s Secretly Dehydrating You in Summer, Dietitians Say

To her point, according to the aforementioned scientific article, a sports drink can contain more than 30 grams of added sugar. To put this in perspective, the American Heart Association recommends capping added sugar intake at 25 grams a day for women and 36 grams a day for men. This is because a diet high in added sugar is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

“For most people in most situations, drinking water is more than sufficient without the added sugar sports drinks provide. Children, sedentary adults, people with type 2 diabetes and anyone trying to manage their weight don’t need sports drinks regularly,” says Ashley Kitchens, MPH, RD, a registered dietitian and the founder of Plant Centered Nutrition. 

Related: Doctors Are Begging You to Stop Making This Super-Common Hydration Mistake

Who Can Benefit From Sports Drinks?

While sports drinks shouldn’t be consumed regularly if you have a primarily inactive lifestyle, they can be a great go-to drink for people who are moving their bodies a lot. Registered dietitian Brinya Kydd, RDN explains that endurance athletes can especially benefit from staying hydrated with this type of beverage. 

“Sports drinks can benefit athletes by replenishing water, electrolytes and carbohydrate losses during an intense and prolonged exercise bout. They can help sustain performance by attenuating muscle cramping, dehydration, low blood sugars and reduced output,” she says.

Registered dietitian Sara Riehm, RD, adds to this, saying that she recommends sports drinks to anyone who will be exercising for longer than one hour or will be in the heat for a prolonged amount of time and anticipate sweating a lot. Additionally, she says that sports drinks can be helpful for people who are sick and experiencing vomiting or diarrhea because it helps replenish fluids and electrolytes that have been lost. 

All four dietitians say that the high sugar content in this type of beverage actually serves a purpose for athletes; it’s a good thing! “During prolonged intense exercise, fast-acting carbohydrates are what your muscles need for quick energy and to help delay fatigue,” Kitchens explains.

What To Keep in Mind When Buying Sports Drinks

There are some tips to keep in mind when choosing a sports drink to ensure you’re supporting your body as best as you can. If you are gearing up for an intense workout or long day outside, Riehm recommends buying a sports drink with both electrolytes and sugar. If you just want a sports drink to enjoy but don’t plan on sweating too much, she says to go for a sugar-free option.

Kydd recommends choosing a sports drink that doesn’t have artificial ingredients, which are often used for flavor or color. Instead, she recommends looking for sports drinks with natural ingredients. 

If you’re doing some light physical activity, Kitchens says that coconut water can be a lower sugar alternative to sports drinks. Coconut water has beneficial minerals and electrolytes, including potassium, magnesium and sodium, without the added sugar that sports drinks have. 

Even when you are using sports drinks for hydration, Stowell says that water and water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables still have a place at the table. Especially if you’re an athlete, it’s important to consider how your overall diet can support you; a sports drink isn’t a replacement for a balanced meal.

There are situations when staying hydrated with sports drinks can be helpful. But if you aren’t particularly physically active, it’s best to save them for situations when you are. Drinking plain H20 is an often-overlooked way to support your heart.

Up Next:

Related: ‘I’m a Cardiologist, and This Is the One Supplement I Actually Take for Heart Health’

Sources   

• Cordeiro Gonçalves, K., Batista Tonaco, L. A., Augusto Veleso, G., et al. (2025). Association between soft drink consumption and cardiovascular disease risk among Brazilian adults: a cross-sectional study. Sao Paulo Medical Journal. 143(4):e2023433.
• Gardener, H., Rundek, T., Markert, M., et al. (2012). Diet Soft Drink Consumption is Associated with an Increased Risk of Vascular Events in the Northern Manhattan Study. Journal of General Internal Medicine. 27(9):1120-1126.
• Park, S., Onufrak, S., Blanck, H. M., et al. (2013). Characteristics Associated with Consumption of Sports and Energy Drinks among US Adults: National Health Interview Survey, 2010. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 113(1):112-119.
• Allison Stowell, RD, registered dietitian and founder of Stowell Nutrition.
• How Much Sugar Is Too Much? American Heart Association.
• Yang, Q., Zhang, Z., Gregg, E. W., et al. (2014). Added Sugar Intake and Cardiovascular Diseases Mortality Among US Adults. JAMA Internal Medicine. 174(4):516-524.
• Ashley Kitchens, MPH, RD, registered dietitian and the founder of Plant Centered Nutrition.
• Brinya Kydd, RDN, registered dietitian nutritionist located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. 
• Sara Riehm, RD, registered dietitian and weight management specialist.

Ziwe‘s signature blend of deadpan provocation is back and this time, her target is the man behind some of Hollywood’s most talked-about red carpet looks.

Law Roach, the celebrated “image architect” known for styling Zendaya‘s most iconic fashion moments, is set to sit down with Ziwe for her latest episode, airing Sunday, August 16. The newly released promo trailer gives a taste of what’s to come, with Ziwe firing off her trademark pointed questions, including a blunt “Who are the racists?” to which Roach dryly responds, “My attorney advised me not to do that.”

The exchange is just one of several intriguing moments teased in the trailer for the Sunday, Aug. 16 episode. Ziwe also asks Roach one of her signature questions, “Is this your 9/11?”, referring to the host’s running joke about a particularly devastating personal moment.

Roach has certainly experienced his share of high-pressure fashion moments throughout his career. In 2023, he recalled a client’s vintage John Galliano dress getting caught in a car door while they were on the way to the Vanity Fair Oscars party, resulting in a wardrobe mishap that kept the unidentified celebrity from walking the red carpet.

Beyond the fashion drama, the full interview promises even more candid territory, touching on Roach’s preferred pronoun (“bitch”), his thoughts on Euphoria’s upcoming third season, and his take on the term “gooner.” Given that Zendaya reportedly pitched the pairing herself, fans can expect this sit-down to be just as unfiltered as Ziwe’s trademark signature style.

For decades, Disney parkgoers have braved booby-trapped temples, crumbling rope bridges, and giant rolling boulders alongside Indiana Jones at Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. But throughout all those years of high-stakes adventures, the face staring back from beneath the fedora inside the attractions was a generic stunt-double sculpt—never the man himself.

Now, that is finally changing in a historic first.

During the “Horizons: A Carousel of Progress” showcase at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, Disney Legend Harrison Ford surprised the packed arena crowd to announce that he has officially stepped in as the physical model for the headlining Audio-Animatronic figure inside Walt Disney World’s upcoming attraction.

“Soon will be time for his next ride,” Ford shared in a video message to cheering fans. “And I’m pleased to share that for the first time ever, I’m the actual model of the Indiana Jones animatronic, fear of snakes included. I’m excited for you to see his next epic adventure, and I’m coming to Walt Disney World soon.”

Related: Disney Just Revealed Exciting New Details for Its First-Ever ‘Coco’ Ride

View this post on Instagram A Historic First for Disney Imagineering

Following Ford’s video message, Walt Disney Imagineers Michael Hundgen and Chris Beatty took the stage to display the intricate digital scans and sculpts used to capture the 84-year-old screen icon’s exact expressions and signature smirk.

“For the first time in a Disney attraction anywhere in the world, Harrison Ford will be the face that you see when Indy appears in our new attraction coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom,” Hundgen confirmed to the audience.

Beatty echoed the team’s excitement about collaborating directly with the legendary star: “You know, look, it’s been amazing to work with Harrison Ford and have him involved in this project. The team is, they’re just huge fans.”

The groundbreaking animatronic will anchor Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent, an all-new E-ticket adventure set in the 1950s that replaces DINOSAUR inside Animal Kingdom’s upcoming 11-acre Tropical Americas land.

Related: Jamie Lee Curtis and Bryan Cranston Are Joining Disney’s Carousel of Progress as the New Voices of Mom and Dad

Escaping the Maya Underworld

Disney Parks Blog

Unlike cloned versions of the ride on other coasts, this original storyline is deeply rooted in authentic Maya lore, taking riders beneath a newly discovered temple ruins near a sacred cenote.

“So this attraction, it’s going to blend the thrill and the excitement of a classic Disney Indy story with the rich cultural experience that you find throughout Disney’s Animal Kingdom,” Beatty explained. “We’re going to explore an ancient Mayan temple with Indy, and we’re going to learn all about Mayan culture and how it connects to nature.”

The expedition quickly goes sideways when a mythical portal opens into the underworld, sucking riders into a gauntlet of monstrous bats, giant scorpions, and the temple’s towering serpentine guardian: the Tsukán.

“Why did it have to be snakes? Well, it does turn out that in Maya mythology the entrance to the underworld is protected by a giant serpent called Tsukán,” Beatty revealed. “And you’re going to come face to face with this real-life Tsukán throughout this harrowing adventure, including a confrontation at the end that is just—it’s jaw-dropping in every way.”

Related: Robert Downey Jr. and Original Marvel Stars Are Reprising Their Roles for Two Brand-New Disney Rides

2027 Cannot Come Soon Enough

When Tropical Americas and its bustling hub of Pueblo Esperanza officially open in 2027, parkgoers will also get to experience Antonio’s Fiesta de Encanto (the world’s first Encanto dark ride) and El Carrusel de los Animalitos, featuring 22 hand-carved Disney and Pixar animal figures.

For lifelong fans who grew up watching Indy outrun danger on the big screen, seeing Harrison Ford’s unmistakable face brought to life right before their eyes inside the attraction is the ultimate full-circle milestone.

Related: Disney Parks Introduce a New Way to Experience Star Wars Rides

Jessica Simpson has still got it!

The pop singer shared some photos from a recent trip to Turks and Caicos in the Caribbean and fans couldn’t get enough. Simpson celebrated her 46th birthday in the tropical locale, taking to Instagram to share some of the memories she made while visiting.

“Take me back to Turks and Caicos. Thank you @lacurevillas and @pavilionluxuryvillas for an unforgettable stay. We’ll be seein’ y’all again very very soon,” Simpson captioned an Instagram post on Saturday, Aug. 15.

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Simpson posted pictures of the scenery in addition to some snaps of herself soaking up the sun in a bikini. Many fans let the “I Wanna Love You Forever” singer that she’s looking happy, healthy—and better than ever.

“You have your full glow back Jessica,” one person wrote.

“You have never looked better!! Healthy and happy and stunning,” someone else said.

“Still has it,” a third comment read.

Simpson, who has three children, separated from Eric Johnson in January 2025.

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“Eric and I have been living separately navigating a painful situation in our marriage,” Simpson told People magazine at the time. “Our children come first, and we are focusing on what is best for them. We are grateful for all of the love and support that has been coming our way, and appreciate privacy right now as we work through this as a family.”

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In the time since, Simpson made a music comeback, releasing a two-part EP project titled Nashville Canyon in 2025.

READ NEXT: Surprise! Beloved ‘Outlander’ Lead Confirmed for a Major Disney Project

A 1971 Jethro Tull song has earned another place in classic rock history, more than five decades after its release. 

“Aqualung,” the title track from the British progressive rock band’s landmark album, was ranked No. 10 on Collider’s list of “The 10 Most Perfect Guitar Solos in Classic Rock History.”

The ranking, published Aug. 11, 2026, featured the guitar work of Martin Barre and pointed to the song’s unusual mix of hard rock, acoustic music and blues. The nearly seven-minute track also has a connection to Family Guy, where fans may recognize its famous guitar lick.

Jethro Tull posed for a portrait.

Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

The “Aqualung” track stands out because it does not stay in one musical style. Collider described it as a “pastiche of three different guitar styles,” beginning with a recognizable opening guitar figure before moving into an acoustic section.

“Aqualung” was released in 1971 as part of Jethro Tull’s fourth studio album. The song was never issued as a single, yet it became one of the band’s best-known recordings.

The guitar solo then brings those different sounds together. It uses crunchy distortion and bluesy vibrato while returning to the harder rock sound heard earlier in the song.

Martin Barre played the electric guitar on the recording, while Ian Anderson handled vocals and acoustic guitar. John Evan played piano and electronic organ, Jeffrey Hammond played bass and Clive Bunker performed drums and percussion.

The original recording runs for 6:34. Its length and changing sections made it different from the short radio hits that were common at the time.

According to Songfacts, the song itself grew from an idea inspired by photographs of homeless people in London taken by Anderson’s then-wife, Jennie Franks. The couple wrote the song together. Anderson later said the subject also brought out feelings of guilt, fear and uncertainty about homelessness.

The lyrics focus on the title character and the way people react when they encounter someone living without a home. 

The album was also sometimes described as a concept album because of its themes involving religion, society and homelessness. 

The success of Aqualung marked an important point in Jethro Tull’s career. The band had already achieved success in the United Kingdom, but the 1971 album became its international breakthrough and helped establish Jethro Tull as a major progressive rock act.

Related: 1981 Rock Song by Journey, Never a No. 1 Hit, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Classic Rock Songs’ of All Time

Last month, 1970s and ‘80s icon Kristy McNichol and Wilson Phillips singer Carnie Wilson had an unexpected meet-and-greet at Bob’s Big Boy in Southern California. When Wilson, in her words, started, “Totally fangirling!” over the Little Darlings actress, McNichol graciously stopped for a snapshot.

Fast-forward a few weeks, and their pic is the viral surprise selfie of the summer. But the story doesn’t end there. 

Wilson recently appeared on SiriusXM’s ‘Jeff Lewis Live’ (along with another legendary performer, former New Kids on the Block boy-bander Joey McIntyre), and revealed an interesting update to the McNichol meeting. 

After Wilson posted her photo with the Family actress on Facebook, writing, “Kris (Kristy McNichol) was a part of my youth. I adored her in her movies,” McNichol actually got in touch with the singer. And what did she have to say? According to Wilson, McNichol contacted her: “She sends me an email, ‘We’re going viral.’” 

Yes, that’s right. McNichol was just as surprised as Wilson about the public’s overwhelming interest in their Bob’s Big Boy selfie. 

Wilson, who is famously the daughter of legendary The Beach Boys’ singer/songwriter Brian Wilson,  also went into more detail about their impromptu encounter, explaining, “I just ran into her when we first arrived…I said, ‘Little Darlings is one of my favorite movies ever and The End with Dom DeLuise,’ but it took a lot of courage.” Carnie also shared that Kristy was, “part of my youth” and said, “I told her how meaningful her movies are to me and my bestie.”

During the interview, Wilson went on to explain how she approached the ‘70s and ‘80s superstar: “I said, ‘Hi, I’m Carnie.’ She goes, ‘Oh hi. Oh, I love you.’” 

Of course,  show host Jeff Lewis teased the singer about McNichol just being polite. But given her recent email, it looks like McNichol could be a bit of a Wilson fangirl too. 

Lewis continued the jabs, asking Wilson and McIntyre about the first time they met, at the 1991 Grammys. “It was a little fuzzy back then,” joked McIntyre, who was 18 at the time. Lewis quipped, “Did she rush you too, like she rushed Kristy McNichol?” 

After the interview, Wilson posted a series of then-and-now photos of herself and McIntyre (on Instagram) from ‘Jeff Lewis Live’ and at the Grammys in 1991, writing, “So cool to reminisce with @joeymcintyre.” 

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The NKOTB alum responded, “Such a privilege getting to know you more and more these days. And I live defending you against the great and terrible @jefflewis!” So there you have it. Whether Wilson “rushed” McIntyre or not, it looks like he’s choosing Carnie over Lewis!

It’s official!

Outlander star Caitriona Balfe will star in the upcoming live action film, Tangled. Though Balfe was not part of the D23 teaser footage on Friday, Aug. 14, Disney has confirmed that Balfe will play the role of Queen Arianna, Rapunzel’s birth mother, in the upcoming movie.

Fans of Balfe are overjoyed to hear the news and are excited to see her in this new role.

“I’m so happy they cast her,” one person wrote on Reddit.

“I seriously can’t wait, I’m a long time Outlander fan and she’s amazing,” someone else said.

“She will amaze in the reunion scene no doubt! I always rewatch the Outlander scene of her reuniting with her daughter, she is incredible with her eyes and posture,” a third Redditor predicted.

Rounding out the Tangled announcements were actors Elliot Cowan from The Crown as King Frederic, and Patrick and Hugo McPherson as the Stabbington twins, according to Deadline.

Disney previously confirmed that Teagan Croft will play Rapunzel, Milo Manheim will portray Flynn Rider, and Kathryn Hahn will take on Mother Gothel in the film, which is set for a March 2028 release.

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Balfe is having a pretty incredible year and has six upcoming credits in the works. In addition to Tangled, Balfe will star in The Housekeeper, Ascension, Tenzing, A Long Winter, and Sense and Sensibility—co-starring Daisy Edgar-Jones and Bodhi Rae Breathnach—which will hit theaters in October.

READ NEXT: Harry Potter Star Says 1 Year on OnlyFans Has Earned Her More Money Than Her Entire Acting Career

Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” has become one of the most recognizable rock songs ever recorded, but the 1981 classic never reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song peaked at No. 9 when it was first released, yet its impact grew far beyond its original chart run.

The Journey hit was recently ranked No. 8 on Collider’s list of the 10 greatest classic rock songs that were never No. 1 hits. The ranking highlights how chart position does not always show how lasting a song can become.

Released in October 1981 as the second single from Journey’s seventh studio album, Escape, “Don’t Stop Believin’” was written by Steve Perry, Neal Schon and Jonathan Cain. The song later became Journey’s signature track and grew into a cultural phenomenon decades after its original release.

American rock band Journey members posed for a portrait in 1981.

Photo by Chris Walter/WireImage

Its No. 9 peak on the Billboard Hot 100 is notable because the song eventually became much bigger than its initial chart performance suggested.

‘Don’t Stop Believin’’ Became a Classic Rock Anthem

The song’s story began with Jonathan Cain, who had recently joined Journey as the replacement for keyboardist Gregg Rolie. Cain was struggling as a musician while living on Los Angeles’ Sunset Boulevard when his father encouraged him to keep pursuing his dream.

Cain kept the words “Don’t stop believin’” in mind and eventually developed the song’s title and hook from that encouragement.

Cain and Perry then shaped the song around two characters: a small-town girl and a city boy who leave their hometowns looking for a better future.

“We felt that every young person has a dream,” Cain said. “And sometimes where you grow up isn’t where you’re destined to be.”

The song also broke some traditional songwriting rules. Its famous chorus does not arrive until near the end. Instead, the track moves through several verses and pre-choruses before reaching its central hook.

Neal Schon recently recalled another unusual part of the recording process. According to the guitarist, producers Kevin Elson and Mike Stone told him, “Play something dumb.”

Schon responded by creating what he described as a “chunky rhythm part.” According to Guitar Player, he said the simple guitar pattern helped give the song the movement it needed.

The guitarist also remembered realizing during the recording that the song could become something special.

“When I went back in the studio to listen after we cut it and it was coming together [in the] mix, I looked at the guys, and I go, ‘I think there’s something here that’s special, that’s going to be bigger than this whole record.’”

He later added, “And not until this many decades later, did it happen. But it did happen.”

Although “Don’t Stop Believin’” did not reach the top of the Billboard Hot 100, its life on the charts continued long after its original release.

The song also reached No. 8 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock chart. It sold more than a million copies on vinyl and later became a major success in the digital era.

In 2007, “Don’t Stop Believin’” received a major boost after appearing in the series finale of The Sopranos. Two years later, the song gained another wave of attention when it was performed by the cast of Glee.

Those appearances helped introduce Journey’s 1981 hit to new generations.

The song also became closely connected to sports. It has been played during the eighth inning at San Francisco Giants home games, and Steve Perry led a crowd singalong during a Giants World Series game in 2014.

The track was also certified 18-times platinum by the RIAA in 2024. Its digital success made it one of the biggest-selling songs originally released during the pre-digital era.

The song’s enduring reputation also extends to major music rankings. Rolling Stone placed it among its 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, while Forbes named it the Biggest Song of All Time in a March 2024 issue, according to the provided source material.

Journey’s Escape album itself reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200, showing that the band was already at the height of its commercial success when “Don’t Stop Believin’” was released.

Related: 1983 Rock Song, Never a No. 1 Hit on Billboard, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Classic Rock Songs’ of All Time

If you have a closet filled with vintage quilted totes, duffels, and zip IDs, you already know the unmatched joy of a classic Vera Bradley print. For longtime collectors who grew up with the brand’s vibrant, intricate swirling patterns, there has always been something uniquely comforting about that signature quilted cotton aesthetic.

Now, Disney and Vera Bradley are teaming up for an enchanting collaboration that feels like an instant love letter to the heritage era—and it just might be the most magical collection of the year.

Announced during the star-studded “Disney Style Around the World” panel at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, the upcoming Vera Bradley x Fantasia collection brings the whimsical wonder of Walt Disney’s 1940 animated masterpiece to life.

Related: How I Pack For a 7-Day Disney World Trip With A Single Carry-On

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Rather than a modern, stark graphic, the new design leans into dreamy celestial swirls, glowing stars, and deep cosmic blues that feel right at home with Vera Bradley’s most iconic legacy patterns. Front and center is Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse himself, waving his magical wand amidst spellbound brooms, dancing waters, and celestial constellations.

Related: Disney Fans Are Officially ‘Freaking Out’ Over BÉIS’ Nostalgic New Travel Line

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The collection arrives just in time for fall styling on September 24, 2026, offering a full lineup of functional, park-ready essentials. Fans can look forward to spacious campus backpacks, classic carryall totes, travel-friendly wallets, and adorable mini accessories like matching keychains and themed mini ears designed to clip right onto your bag.

Disney

Whether you’re packing your park bag for an upcoming Disney trip, heading to class, or simply adding a touch of nostalgic magic to your everyday errands, this nostalgic Fantasia drop is shaping up to be an absolute must-have for Disney fashion lovers. Mark your calendars for September 24—because if history is any guide, these whimsical quilted pieces won’t stay in stock for long.

Related: Disney Adults Are Officially Obsessing Over This Sleek New Monochromatic Park Merch

If you thought Robert Downey Jr.’s time suiting up as Iron Man in the Disney theme parks was behind him, think again.

During a massive Marvel panel at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige and Walt Disney Imagineering Chief Creative Officer Brent Strong took the stage to announce a massive, star-studded expansion coming to Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure.

The land is officially expanding over the park’s former backstage parking footprint to welcome two groundbreaking attractions in 2028—featuring an A-list cast reprising their legendary cinematic roles exclusively for the rides.

Related: Disney Just Revealed Exciting New Details for Its First-Ever ‘Coco’ Ride

Assembling Against King Thanos in ‘Avengers Infinity Defense’

Disney Parks Blog

The headline attraction of the expansion, Avengers Infinity Defense, welcomes park guests as new recruits sent across the multiverse to battle King Thanos.

The journey kicks off inside a dimly lit briefing room where guests receive a pre-mission briefing led by Iman Vellani as Ms. Marvel. She alerts recruits that King Thanos—a ruthless variant of the villain who won his timeline—has stolen technology to jump across the Multiverse, requiring a full Avengers assembly to stop him.

Following the briefing, recruits board dark-ride vehicles—similar to the state-of-the-art suspended vehicles used in Peter Pan’s Never Land Adventure at Tokyo DisneySea—that hurtle through massive physical sets seamlessly integrated with high-definition screen media. Riders travel through sling-ring portals to iconic Marvel realms like Asgard, Wakanda, and New York City, joining forces with heroes like Captain America, Thor, Hawkeye, and Iron Man to defeat King Thanos before he takes over the Multiverse.

Strong highlighted the scale of the dark ride experience, noting behind-the-scenes footage of physical production: “These are Imagineers around the world creating these massive physical sets that are going to bring these worlds to life… and when it all comes together, you’re going to feel like you’re hurtling through worlds alongside your favorite heroes.”

During the panel, Feige revealed that several key Marvel Cinematic Universe stars filmed brand-new, original footage for the attraction while on set in London.

“I’m very happy to share for the first time that some of our favorite on-screen heroes are reprising their roles for this attraction, including Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye, Anthony Mackie as Captain America, Chris Hemsworth as Thor, and Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man,” Feige announced to the cheering crowd.

Feige shared a behind-the-scenes video captured on set featuring Downey in character delivering lines like, “Showtime, Jarvis… Bring the fight to Thanos. They are not ready for Thanos. Thanos isn’t ready for them.”

Related: Disney Parks Introduce a New Way to Experience Star Wars Rides

High-Flying Action at ‘Stark Flight Lab’

Disney Parks Blog

The second ride debuting in the expansion is Stark Flight Lab, an interactive thrill experience where guests test out Tony Stark’s newest flight pods.

Imagineering revealed that Downey, Mackie, and Brie Larson (reprising her role as Captain Marvel) will serve as on-screen flight instructors, guiding riders through simulated combat maneuvers and high-speed flight drills.

Discussing the expansion layout, Strong explained: “If you’ve seen the Quinjet that’s there today, we’re going to be blowing the doors open on that Avengers compound and letting you step inside with two brand-new attractions.”

Beyond the rides, the expansion will open a brand-new walkway connecting Avengers Campus directly to Cars Land, eliminating dead ends and improving park navigation.

Related: The Truth About Disney World’s New Transportation Rules—and What It Really Means for Your Next Trip

A Global Marvel Parks Expansion

The California announcements were part of a wider international rollout for Disney Experiences:

• Shanghai Disneyland: Construction has officially completed track installation on the world’s first Spider-Man-dedicated coaster land, featuring over 20 custom murals by local artists.
• Hong Kong Disneyland: Stark Expo is adding a major new pavilion featuring a Quinjet landing pad and an experience using “more than 120 vertical feet of new storytelling technology” to travel across realms—including Asgard and Wakanda via sling rings—alongside Peter Parker.  

For Marvel fans and theme park enthusiasts planning ahead, 2028 is shaping up to be a milestone year for Disney California Adventure.

Related: Disney Announces Major Reimagining of EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth

If your ideal Disney vacation isn’t complete without taking a slow-moving journey through human history inside an 18-story geodesic sphere—and catching the unmistakable scent of Rome burning—get ready for some exciting news.

EPCOT’s crown jewel is officially preparing for its next chapter.

Last night at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, Disney announced that Spaceship Earth will receive a comprehensive reimagining, bringing the beloved opening-day dark ride into the modern era for the first time in nearly two decades.

The reveal took place during the star-studded Horizons: A Carousel of Progress showcase, where host Neil Patrick Harris was joined onstage by Walt Disney Imagineering executive Ali Rubinstein and popular engineer and creator Mark Rober to celebrate the attraction’s engineering legacy and look toward the future.

As Disney Parks writer Laura Pilat noted of the big reveal, “As Neil Patrick Harris was talking about outer space on the Horizons: A Carousel of Progress stage at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa, conversation naturally shifted to our favorite geodesic sphere from the ‘80s. Makes sense. How can you talk about the future of Disney Experiences without discussing the iconic attraction that celebrates humanity’s march from the caves to the cosmos and inspires guests to imagine, create, and build a better tomorrow.”

Related: 10 Iconic Disney World Rides That Have Closed Forever—And What Replaced Them

From Human Communication to Human Connection

Ever since EPCOT opened its gates on October 1, 1982, Spaceship Earth has traced humanity’s grand story of progress, taking riders from prehistoric cave paintings and the invention of the printing press straight through the dawn of the 21st century.

While previous iterations of the ride have focused specifically on the evolution of human communication, Imagineering is widening the aperture for this upcoming refresh.

“Spaceship Earth’s story has been updated several times since it debuted in 1982, but it hasn’t actually been touched in nearly 20 years,” explained Rubinstein on stage. “Tonight, I can share, we’re bringing this iconic attraction back into the present day and beyond. Today, Spaceship Earth focuses on the story of human communication. We’re broadening that… our new version of Spaceship Earth will be about human connection.”

Rubinstein emphasized that while the team will be “bringing new magic to every scene,” the update will preserve the soul of the park. “Spaceship Earth will remain classically EPCOT—a journey through time celebrating the progress made possible through human connection.”

Related: Disney Just Showed What Animal Kingdom’s New Tropical Americas Land Will Actually Look Like

A Historic Milestone for an Engineering Marvel

The update marks the first major overhaul of Spaceship Earth since its current version, famously narrated by Dame Judi Dench, debuted in early 2008. Over its 40-plus-year run, the attraction has featured legendary voice narrators including Vic Perrin, Walter Cronkite, and Jeremy Irons.

Standing at 180 feet tall and housing 2.2 million cubic feet of space, the attraction remains one of the most intricate ride systems Imagineering has ever engineered, utilizing a continuously moving spiral track that ascends into the sphere before rotating backward for the descent back to Earth.

“Inside is one of the most complicated ride systems Imagineering has ever created,” explained Nasa Engineer Mark Rober on stage. “It’s a continuously moving train of vehicles that spirals up into the structure and then turns around backwards, comes back down to Earth.”

While Disney has not yet announced an official closure date or construction timeline, the project represents a major creative commitment to preserving the heart of original EPCOT. As Pilat put it, “So, here’s to the next 30,000 years on Spaceship Earth. The present is just the beginning!”

Related: Pixar Announces ‘Cars’ and ‘Coco’ TV and Film Sequels, Video Games and Expansions Across Disney Parks at D23 2026

As a chef and dietitian, I assess produce for flavor, nutrition, versatility, food waste and, most importantly, value. That matters especially at a warehouse club like Sam’s Club. A large package may seem like a bargain, but if I use only half before it spoils, I haven’t saved money. However, bulk produce packages can be excellent buys when I know my family will eat them or I have a plan to preserve and use them.

I find myself looking beyond the sticker price and considering the bigger picture. What will I use? What looks freshest? What will work in the meals I’m already planning? And which items catch my eye simply because they’re something a little different?

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During my recent trip through the Sam’s Club produce section, the sheer variety immediately stood out to me. There were familiar grocery list staples alongside fruits and vegetables that made me stop and take a second look. I saw everything from apples, bananas, oranges and avocados to colorful peppers, leafy greens, potatoes and a wide assortment of fresh fruit.

What really made the trip interesting, though, was seeing some less common produce mixed in with the everyday favorites. I spotted specialty grapes, dragon fruit, drinking coconuts, apriums—a fusion of apricots and plums—as well as Cara Cara oranges and several other varieties that aren’t necessarily available at every grocery store. For someone who enjoys cooking, trying new foods or simply adding a little variety to the usual grocery routine, that kind of selection is fun to explore.

As I made my way through the department, I took photos of many of the fruits and vegetables that caught my attention. Looking back at those photos, I realized just how much there was to consider—not only from a nutrition standpoint, but also from a cooking, convenience and value perspective.

So, I took a closer look at the produce I found during my visit to see which items stood out to me and why. Here are my top picks for what to buy from the Sam’s Club produce section—and which you may want to skip.

Related: 5 Best Produce Items To Buy at Trader Joe’s (and 4 To Skip)

Does Sam’s Club Have Organic Produce?

Courtesy Julie Andrews

Yes, Sam’s Club carries organic produce, although the exact selection can vary by club and season. On my trip, one of the items that stood out was organic baby spinach. Sam’s Club currently lists organic baby spinach, and its produce selection also includes other organic fruits and vegetables depending on availability.

From a nutrition perspective, some people may feel that they have to buy organic produce to eat a healthy diet, but conventional fruits and vegetables are still nutritious choices. If eating organic is important to you, however, you’ll appreciate having the option at this warehouse club.

For something like baby spinach, pay attention to the package size. Spinach is nutritious, but it is delicate and perishable. I like having a large container when I know I’ll use it in salads, omelets, smoothies, sandwiches and cooked dishes throughout the week. If I’m not going to use that much, a smaller package at another grocery store may actually be the better decision from a price perspective.

That’s the key with warehouse shopping. It’s important to look at price per ounce and also consider the amount your family can realistically eat.

9 Best Items To Buy From the Sam’s Club Produce Section

One of my favorite things about Sam’s Club produce is the combination of everyday staples and specialty produce. Here are my picks for the best Sam’s Club produce section finds.

1. Mini Produce, Like Mini Peppers, Mini Cucumbers and Baby Broccoli

Courtesy Julie Andrews

View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article

I would happily buy the Wild Wonders mini peppers I saw in the store. Seedless mini peppers are one of those ingredients I find incredibly useful in the kitchen. You can slice them into salads, sauté them with onions, roast them on a sheet pan or simply put them on a snack plate.

Mini cucumbers are excellent sliced and served with a sprinkle of salt, and are also perfect in salads, grain bowls and eaten as a snack.

Sweet baby broccoli can be roasted, grilled or sautéed, making it an excellent side dish for busy weeknight meals. It works beautifully with pasta, rice bowls, chicken or roasted potatoes.

2. Salad Favorites, Like Romaine Hearts and Spinach

Courtesy Julie Andrews

Romaine hearts and spinach are classic examples of produce I’d consider a good warehouse club purchase if you know you’ll use them.

Spinach has plenty of uses beyond making a salad too. You can add it to soups, stews and pasta dishes, and serve it sautéed as a side dish. It’s also incredibly easy to freeze if you won’t use it all before it goes bad. Romaine hearts are equally versatile. They can become salads, lettuce wraps or even a grilled side dish.

3. Citrus Fruits, Like Lemons, Limes and Oranges

Courtesy Julie Andrews

View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article

The bags of lemons, limes and oranges at Sam’s Club caught my attention because citrus is one of those ingredients I use constantly when cooking.

As a chef, I think of lemons and limes almost like seasoning. A squeeze of fresh citrus can brighten roasted vegetables, fish, chicken, salads, grains and sauces. Whole oranges are an easy snack, while Cara Cara oranges add a little variety to the usual citrus routine, making a great snack or breakfast accompaniment.

The important thing here is to compare the per-pound price with your regular grocery store. If Sam’s Club has the better price and I know I’ll use the bag, I’m interested. If I’m only buying two lemons for a recipe, the warehouse-sized bag isn’t necessarily a bargain.

4. Grapes

Courtesy Julie Andrews

View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article

I was especially intrigued by the variety of grapes. I saw Grape Soda grapes, Sugar Drop green grapes and Cotton Candy grapes on my trip.

This is an area where I think Sam’s Club has a real advantage—variety. Specialty grapes aren’t always something you can find at every supermarket. If you’re shopping at a conventional grocery store, you might see one or two types of grapes. At Sam’s Club, you may have the opportunity to choose something much more unusual.

From a nutrition standpoint, grapes are a convenient fruit choice that requires virtually no preparation. From a chef’s perspective, specialty varieties are fun because they can make a simple fruit platter feel much more interesting.

6. Tropical Fruits and Specialty Produce

Courtesy Julie Andrews

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The Frieda’s Sillies drinking coconuts were another example of something you wouldn’t necessarily expect to find everywhere. The same goes for dragon fruit, kiwi, mangoes, fresh pineapples and other tropical fruit. This is where Sam’s Club can be particularly fun if you enjoy experimenting with food.

Dragon fruit, drinking coconuts and other specialty fruits may not be everyday purchases for everyone, but if you’re curious about trying something new, having those products in one place is convenient. The same goes for apriums—a cross between an apricot and a plum. They’re exactly the kind of produce item that can make a routine grocery trip more interesting.

7. Seasonal Fruits, Like Berries, Peaches and Melons

Courtesy Julie Andrews

View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article

I’d also look closely at the seasonal fruit at Sam’s Club. Berries, peaches, nectarines, watermelon and cantaloupe can all be great purchases when the quality and price are right.

This is where I become very price-conscious. Fresh berries can vary significantly in price from store to store, and their shelf life can be short. If Sam’s Club has a large package at a good price and I know my household will eat it quickly, great. If not, I might choose a smaller package elsewhere.

Watermelon and cantaloupe are similar. A whole melon generally gives me more fruit for my money than pre-cut fruit, assuming I’m willing to do the work.

8. Pantry Staples, Like Onions, Garlic and Potatoes

Courtesy Julie Andrews

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Some of my favorite practical purchases were the onions, garlic and potatoes because they’re staples you’ll always want to have on hand.

Onions can be diced or sliced and are the base of countless meals. Sweet potatoes can be roasted, mashed or turned into grain bowls. Potatoes can become breakfast potatoes, sheet pan dinners or side dishes. And, of course, garlic is a kitchen essential.

9. Bulk Favorites, Like Avocados, Bananas and Apples

Courtesy Julie Andrews

View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article

Avocados are another item where I’d check the quantity carefully. They’re nutritious and versatile, but buying a huge bag only makes sense if I can use them before they become overripe.

Bananas are a steal at Sam’s Club, often sold as a large bunch for less than $2. If they become too ripe, they can be turned into banana bread or frozen to make smoothies at a later date.

Apples can be used in sweet desserts and savory dishes, and they make the perfect on-the-go snack to be enjoyed anytime. Sam’s Club has multiple varieties, including gala, honeycrisp and Cosmic Crisp.

Related: I Asked 3 Chefs the Best Canned Pantry Staple, and They All Said the Same Thing

2 Sam’s Club Produce Items You Can Skip

These are the two produce section items at Sam’s Club to buy elsewhere.

1. Pre-Cut Fruits and Vegetables (Sometimes)

Courtesy Julie Andrews

When I say “skip,” I don’t mean the produce itself is bad. I mean that the package may not be the best value for every shopper. Eating fruits and vegetables in general is a huge win. But if I have to choose a caution, it’s the cost of pre-cut fruit and vegetables.

Sam’s Club sells convenient options such as cut pineapple spears and cut fruit and vegetable trays that are perfect for gatherings. There is absolutely a place for these products. If having to cut a pineapple is the difference between eating pineapple and not buying one at all, the convenience may be worth paying for.

But if I have the time and ability to cut fruit myself, I would generally compare the price against a whole pineapple. For example, Sam’s Club carries whole fresh pineapple as well as prepared pineapple products, illustrating why comparing the price per pound or ounce is important.

The same principle applies to pre-cut melon and other ready-to-eat fruit. You’re paying for labor and convenience. That’s not necessarily a bad thing—it just means I want to know what that convenience is costing me.

2. Large Quantities of Produce If You Can’t Eat It All Before It Goes Bad

Courtesy Julie Andrews

I’d also be cautious about buying large quantities of highly perishable produce simply because the unit price looks attractive. A giant box of mangoes, a large container of berries or spinach, or a large amount of ripe fruit can become expensive food waste if you can’t finish it, prep it, or freeze it before it goes bad.

And this is where my dietitian side and chef side agree completely—the healthiest food is the food you’re actually going to eat. If buying a smaller quantity at a traditional grocery store means you waste less, that may be the better purchase.

Final Takeaways

Courtesy Julie Andrews

After walking through the Sam’s Club produce section, my biggest takeaway is that I wouldn’t approach it as a simple “everything is cheaper here” shopping trip.

Instead, shop strategically. Compare prices with your local grocery stores, paying particular attention to the price per pound, ounce or individual item. Then, think about how much your household can realistically eat. Choose whole produce when you’re willing to wash, peel and cut it yourself, and happily pay for pre-cut options when convenience is worth the premium.

When the price is competitive, put staples such as apples, bananas, citrus, sweet potatoes, potatoes, garlic, romaine, celery, mini peppers, cucumbers, asparagus and broccoli high on your Sam’s Club shopping list.

You should also take advantage of the variety available. Specialty and tropical produce and other less common produce can be a real perk of shopping at Sam’s Club. Those are the items that can be difficult to find at some conventional grocery stores, and they give you an opportunity to try something new.

Ultimately, my strategy for shopping at Sam’s Club is simple: buy what you’ll eat, compare the unit price and don’t confuse a big package with a bargain. Sam’s Club can be an excellent place to stock up on fresh produce, but the best deals are the ones that fit your household, your cooking habits and your ability to use everything before it goes bad.

And if you can walk out with a cart full of colorful fruits and vegetables—including a few unusual finds you wouldn’t normally see at your neighborhood grocery store—that’s a pretty successful grocery trip in my book.

Related: 7 Best Items To Buy From Costco’s Produce Section (and 5 To Skip)

If you’ve ever piloted the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy at Disney’s Hollywood Studios or Disneyland, your spaceflight missions are about to follow you straight into your living room.

In one of the most unexpected physical-to-digital announcements to come out of D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, Disney and Epic Games revealed a brand-new crossover linking Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run directly with Fortnite.

The initiative debuts alongside Smuggler’s Gambit, a new Star Wars Creative island in Fortnite developed in close partnership with Lucasfilm.

Reporting on the ground from the D23 presentation, Dani Meyering of Attractions Magazine broke down the ambitious mechanics behind the project, noting that “Fortnite is about to connect directly with Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, allowing something guests accomplish aboard the Millennium Falcon at Disney’s theme parks to follow them home into the video game”.

Related: Disney Makes Huge Change to Millennium Falcon Attraction That Fans Are Calling a ‘Huge Improvement’

View this post on Instagram How the Ride-to-Game Rewards Work

Guests waiting in line for Smugglers Run can now link their MyDisney account to their Epic Games profile inside the official Disney parks mobile app.

Once connected, riders unlock an enhanced bonus mode aboard the attraction. As Meyering detailed from Disney’s presentation, “the experience includes a special mission briefing from Hondo Ohnaka, additional secrets inside the Falcon’s cockpit and crates that crews can collect during their mission”.

The rewards don’t stop when your flight ends. Cargo and loot collected inside the physical theme park cockpit convert into digital rewards in Fortnite, including an exclusive Forsworn Trooper outfit and in-game credits to upgrade gear in the Smuggler’s Gambit island.

Even better for competitive gamers: Disney confirmed that progression and milestones achieved while playing at home will help boost your score when you return to ride the attraction in person.

Related: The Ultimate Guide to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge: Best Places to Ride, Shop and Eat

The Future of Theme Park Storytelling

While other entertainment destinations are bringing video games to life by building physical lands, Disney is taking a two-way interactive approach.

As Meyering highlighted, Disney described the crossover as a “full circle physical-to-digital connection” and an early preview of larger plans to bridge real-world park memories with immersive home gaming.

For vacationing families and gaming fans alike, your next cockpit run on Batuu is officially more than just a ride—it is the start of your next gaming quest.

Related: Disney Is Adding Nighttime Hours This Fall to Its ‘All Bangers’ Park

When Men in Black hit theaters on July 2, 1997, Will Smith was no stranger to the big screen; he’d already appeared in films like Six Degrees of Separation, Bad Boys, and Independence Day. While the sci-fi comedy co-starring Tommy Lee Jones didn’t necessarily push his acting in new directions, it became a pivotal moment for his music career instead.

Global Chart Success

Smith’s song for the film, also titled “Men in Black,” became a sensation. Along with topping the US Billboard Hot 100 Airplay chart (renamed to Radio Songs in 2014) for four weeks, it reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart on August 16, 1997. The song also dominated the charts in Australia, Germany, Switzerland, Ireland, and other countries worldwide. Since it was not issued as a commercial retail single in the U.S., it couldn’t appear on the main Billboard Hot 100 under the rules at the time.

After years of creating music with DJ Jazzy Jeff, Smith wrote the Men in Black theme song on his own. Since it heavily sampled Patrice Rushen‘s 1982 song, “Forget Me Nots,” she’s credited as a co-writer along with Terri McFadden and Freddie Washington.

The song took off and became a hit, and Smith later released it on his debut solo album, Big Willie Style. At the 1998 Grammy Awards, “Men in Black” went up against LL Cool J, Notorious B.I.G., Trevor Smith, Jr., and Missy Elliott. Still, Smith was the one who walked away with the Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance.

Sampling, Vocals, and Music Video Drama

In addition to sampling “Forget Me Nots,” it also featured Coko (Cheryl Gamble) of the group SWV, who provided the female vocals. According to Poke (Jean-Claude Olivier), who produced the song with Tone (Samuel Barnes), Coko refused to appear in the video.

“She was like, ‘Will Smith? F**k outta here,'” he recalled to Complex. “She sang the record but she was like I’m not doing this video. That was the worst mistake of her life.”

“Men in Black” didn’t just top the charts; it proved Smith could dominate the music world and be a box-office king.

It was one of Bruce Springsteen‘s most successful chart hits, but it never reached the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Dancing in the Dark” has gone down in history as one of the biggest songs from Springsteen’s catalog, but some may be surprised to know that it actually never hit No. 1. Released as the lead single from Springsteen’s smash-hit album Born in the U.S.A. in 1984, the song exploded on the radio and quickly climbed its way up the Billboard Hot 100 — though it landed just shy of the No. 1 spot.

The Springsteen rock staple instead peaked at No. 2, where it spent four consecutive weeks. It was blocked from the No. 1 spot by other dominant ’80s tracks like Duran Duran‘s “The Reflex” and Prince‘s “When Doves Cry.”

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But missing the No. 1 spot didn’t stop “Dancing in the Dark” from becoming one of the most enduring songs of the ’80s. The dance-rock hit also had an iconic accompanying music video, famously featuring a young Courteney Cox, that helped launch Springsteen into global superstardom.

The song would also end up being Springsteen’s highest-peaking Billboard Hot 100 song ever, with his next-best placement coming it at No. 5 with hits like “Hungry Heart,” “Glory Days” and “Brilliant Disguise.”

The fan-favorite track “I’m On Fire” peaked at No. 6 on the Hot 100, while some of The Boss’ other most notable songs didn’t even crack the Top 5, like “Born in the U.S.A.,” which peaked at No. 9, and “Born to Run,” which peaked at No. 23.

According to Billboard, “Dancing in the Dark” is considered to be one of the best No. 2 hits of all time, placing at No. 11 on the newly-released ranking of the 100 Best Billboard Hot 100 No. 2 Hits. Additionally, it comes in at No. 221 on Billboard’s Top Songs of the ’80s.

Related: 1985 Soft-Rock Track, Written in 2 Minutes, Unexpectedly Became a Fan-Favorite Bruce Springsteen Song

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Whether you’re creating a cozy home library, filling an empty living room wall, or giving your home office a storage upgrade, a tall bookcase can do more than just hold your favorite reads — it can make a serious style statement, too.

If you’re looking for something with a little more presence, Walmart has a deal worth adding to your cart. Right now, the Homfa 6-Tier Bookcase With Arched Top and Pilasters is on sale for $106, down from $197. Its standout design features an arched top framed by decorative columns, giving the bookcase a high-end look without the designer price tag.

Homfa 6-Tier Bookcase With Arched Top and Pilasters, $106 (was $197) at Walmart 

Courtesy of Walmart

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Measuring 29.5 inches wide, 10.9 inches deep, and 73.2 inches tall, the bookcase has a slim profile but plenty of vertical storage. Its six-tier shelves are spaced about 11 inches apart, which give you enough space to store books and other collectibles. In total, it holds up to 300 pounds. If you need even more storage, the bookcase has flush edges which makes it easy to place two or more bookcases side by side.

Its arched silhouette and elegant columns on either side channel the old-money aesthetic, giving it the feel of something you might find in a stately home or grand library. It also comes with wall anchors to help keep it securely in place.The bookcase comes in white and black colors, so you can choose the finish that best suits your space. 

Shoppers say the bookcase looks far more pricey than its price tag suggests. One reviewer said it “looks expensive,” while another praised its “modern look” and “classic feel.” Reviewers also mentioned its sturdy construction, with one shopper saying while it took about an hour to assemble, the end result was “well worth the time.” 

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Related: Walmart’s ‘Beautiful’ 9-Cube Farmhouse Bookcase Is a ‘Great Organization Solution for Small Spaces,’ Now 53% Off

At nearly half off, the Homfa 6-Tier Bookcase With Arched Top and Pilasters is an easy way to bring an old-money aesthetic to your home for less. This Walmart deal won’t last long, so consider this your sign to snag one while it’s still in stock and on sale!

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