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Bella Thorne is writing and directing the Spring Breakers sequel. She said so on Alex Cooper's Call Her Daddy podcast. She's not just starring in Spring Breakers: Salvation Mountain. She's running the whole thing. The original 2012 film starred Selena Gomez and Vanessa Hudgens. Thorne has a very specific reason for taking the job that goes back to 2012 and a competition between Disney kids that most people have forgotten about.

@callherdaddy

COUNTING DOWN THE DAYS UNTIL SPRING BREAKERS 2

♬ original sound - Call Her Daddy

In 2012, she says she, Gomez, Hudgens, Miley Cyrus, and Zendaya were all post-Disney kids being measured against each other. "2012 was such an exploitative time and everyone was going through it," she said. All of them were "being compared to see who was going to be that next bad girl."

Spring Breakers was Gomez and Hudgens answering that question. Harmony Korine cast two Disney Channel alumni in the most deliberately un-Disney film imaginable, and the culture couldn't look away. Thorne was in the same pipeline at the same time on Shake It Up with Zendaya. She watched it happen. Now, it's her turn.

Earl Gibson III / Getty Images

She got the directing job because the producers saw an early cut of Color Your Hurt, her directorial debut, and liked what they saw. Thorne isn't new to directing. She's made music videos, and her 2020 short film Her and Him premiered at the Oldenburg Film Festival and won her a Pornhub Vision Award. The producers knew what they were getting.

Related: Selena Gomez Said ‘A Beanie?’ Jennifer Stone Knew Exactly What to Do. They Just Made Every 2000s Wizards Kid Feel 10 Again. Nobody Forgets.

They asked her to write something. "They loved it," she said. "And now I'm writing and directing Spring Breakers 2." Matthew Bright had been attached to direct since May 2025. Now it's Thorne. She doesn't undersell the script. "Balls to the wall. That's what everyone says when they read this script." She also promises "so much litness" for anyone who wants to "go to the theater and have fun." Original producers Chris Hanley and Jordan Gertner are back. The new cast includes Grace Van Dien from Stranger Things, Ariel Martin, and True Whitaker. No release date yet.

Vittorio Zunino Celotto / Getty Images

Gomez has since been relatively quiet about the original film. Hudgens has embraced it as part of her post-Disney evolution. Neither of them is in the sequel. The Disney girl who was watching from a different Disney Channel show while they made it is now writing and directing the follow-up.

The Spring Breakers Sequel That's Been Trying to Happen Since 2014

This is the third attempt at a Spring Breakers sequel. Spring Breakers: The Second Coming was announced in 2014 with Jonas Åkerlund directing and Irvine Welsh writing. James Franco publicly blasted that one. A TV spinoff came next in 2017 and went nowhere. Salvation Mountain was announced in May 2025 with Bright directing. Now it's Thorne. Third director. Thirteen years. The sequel that keeps not getting made keeps getting closer.

Harmony Korine isn't involved. What made the original significant was the specific cultural weight of casting Disney girls in something so transgressive. The film grossed $31.7 million on a $5 million budget and became a genuine cult film. What Thorne's promising sounds different. "Balls to the wall" and "so much litness" isn't arthouse cinema. Whether that's right or wrong, nobody knows until it exists.

What's not in question is why she's the one making it. She was in the same machine Gomez and Hudgens were trying to escape. She watched them do it from Shake It Up. The sequel landing in her hands 13 years later isn't random. It makes perfect sense.

Michael Tran / Getty Images

In 2012, Selena Gomez and Vanessa Hudgens starred in Spring Breakers to put distance between themselves and Disney Channel. Thirteen years later, the Disney girl who was watching from the same pipeline is writing and directing the sequel. Bella Thorne describes it as "balls to the wall."

That sounds about right.

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One of the easiest ways to make a table or buffet look like it's been styled for a magazine photo shoot is to play with height. Instead of having every dish, bowl and serving platter sitting on the same flat plane, bringing in tiered servers and cake stands gives the eye a few different places to land. It can make a spread feel fuller and more abundant without actually adding more food, which is always a win in my book.

Height is also surprisingly useful when throwing a party because it can help maximize your serving space. You can tuck smaller dishes or snacks underneath raised platters, while taller pieces can put everything from appetizers to desserts within easy reach. And you don't have to reserve this trick for formal occasions. A tiered stand can make a casual breakfast, afternoon snack setup or family dinner feel a little more special without requiring you to break out the fine china.

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White Three-Tiered Metal Tray, $19.99 at Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby

Think of it as the tablescaping equivalent of adding a second story: You're using the same amount of real estate, but suddenly there's a lot more going on. Hobby Lobby's White Three-Tiered Metal Tray brings a little French country charm to the table, with its crisp white finish and classic metal construction. Think farmhouse kitchen meets leisurely afternoon in the French countryside, making even a pile of store-bought pastries look like a cute presentation.

The three round trays are graduated in size, with an 8.25-inch top tray, a 10.25-inch middle tray and a generous 12.06-inch bottom tray, giving you plenty of room to layer whatever you're serving.

Related: IKEA Is Selling a Sleek New Cart That Fits Into the Narrowest of Spaces for Extra Storage

The white metal works beautifully with other rustic or vintage-inspired pieces, so you can make it as polished or as casually charming as you like.

Hobby Lobby shoppers love this tiered tray so much that some admit they're purchasing more than one.

"Perfect for party food," writes a customer in their review. "Beautifully displays sandwiches and desserts. Love these! I'm buying four more!"

Another person mentioned they actually use the tray for seasonal decorations, especially around Christmastime.

"I decorate my table with a white tablecloth and runner, then I take this beautiful piece and put different ornaments on each layer," they wrote. "Festive and easy."

Whether you're serving food or going for a seasonal style, you'll end up using this tray way more than you might first expect.

Related: Costco's Gorgeous Green Hand-Knotted Rug Looks Like It Belongs in a Grand European Estate

Some desserts instantly transport you back to childhood, and a Chocolate Swiss Roll is one of them. Whether you remember finding one tucked into your lunchbox or enjoying one as an after-school snack, the classic treat brings back memories with the very first bite.

Just in time for back-to-school season, Costco is stocking a bakery-style version from Quinn’s Baking Co. that puts a spin on the nostalgic favorite. Rich chocolate cake wrapped around a creamy vanilla filling makes this sweet find hard to resist for kids and adults alike.

You can check them out in this August 5 TikTok from @CostcoBuys:

@costcobuys

🍫 Quinn’s Chocolate Vanilla Swiss Rolls at Costco are a nostalgic treat you need to grab! You get 12 rolls of rich chocolate cake wrapped around a sweet vanilla filling, made with real ingredients and baking as an act of love. It’s a classic lunchbox favorite all grown up 🎂 ($7.99) #costco #costcofinds #swissrolls

♬ original sound - CostcoBuys

The Swiss rolls come 12 to a package and are currently selling for $7.99. Each one features a generous layer of vanilla filling rolled inside chocolate cake and appears much thicker than the boxed snack cake version. At about 67 cents per roll, they’re an affordable option for back-to-school lunches, afternoon snacks, or an easy dessert after dinner.

Related: A Sweet New Fall Find at Costco Is Giving Sur La Table Vibes

While Swiss rolls have been a lunchbox staple for generations, Quinn’s Baking Co. set out to recreate the nostalgic dessert with a bakery-inspired approach. The family-owned company launched in 2020 after purchasing equipment from a bakery that had been making Swiss rolls and cakes, allowing them to recreate the treats they remembered growing up with. The company was named after the founders’ daughter, Quinn, whose love of baking inspired the business.

A classic chocolate Swiss roll with a creamy vanilla filling.

Photo by Mohammad Fahim on Unsplash

Since Costco items can vary by location, shoppers can call ahead or check availability in the Costco app using item #1952997 before making a special trip. As with many bakery finds, stock may be limited to select warehouses or sell out quickly once it arrives.

If chocolate Swiss rolls were a regular part of your childhood, this Costco find might be a fun excuse to revisit an old favorite. And if you’re introducing them to a new generation, there’s a good chance they’ll disappear from the lunchbox just as quickly as you remember.

Frito-Lay is back with another brand-new chips release bound to delight tastebuds craving something more bold than usual. The unexpected fusion of seasonings is an explosion of flavor, perfect for both end-of-summer gatherings and savory fall snacking—and it's launching nationwide next week.

Bringing together a returning fan-favorite and a totally new addition to the brand's lineup, Doritos F1 Head2Head combines two flavors in one bag: Late Night Loaded Taco and Chimichurri Lime. The contrasting tastes are said to create the opportunity for snackers to get both bites at once and choose their favorite.

The crave-worthy, crunchy snack was made with fans of the international auto racing sport in mind, marrying two bold flavors and urging a "flavor face-off"—in the most fun way. Late Night Loaded Taco is a comeback drop, with notes of seasoned beef, cheddar cheese, tomato, and sour cream. Meanwhile, Chimichurri Lime brings in a South American vibe, featuring peppers, garlic, and a bright touch of lime.

For those unfamiliar with the tangy signature blend of spices, chimichurri is a sauce of fresh herbs, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar that originated in Argentina, traditionally used as a table condiment or to season grilled meat, according to Sporked.

"Inspired by the rivalry and excitement surrounding Formula 1," according to a press release shared directly with Parade, the limited-time launch will be available in 9-ounce bags for $5.49 each and 2.6-ounce bags for $2.79. And it's coming sooner rather than later, as the nationwide release is set for Monday, Aug. 10, so they'll likely be stocked on a store shelf near you next week, if not already.

As Parade previously reported, Doritos debuted another zesty, lime-centered chips flavor earlier this summer when it added its spinoff of the tortilla chip, Doritos Dinamita, to its Simply NKD line. As the name implies, the new Simply NKD Dinamita took the iconic rolled chip that fans know and love for its “layered heat-filled flavor experience,” and stripped it of all artificial dyes and flavors.

Next, Frito-Lay’s Brand-New Line of Chips Is a Tasty Twist on Classic Flavors

Scott Stapp, the powerful voice behind the band Creed, is celebrating a birthday. The rock frontman turns 53 on Aug. 8, more than 25 years after Creed’s “With Arms Wide Open” became a No. 1 hit.

Stapp rose to fame as Creed’s frontman in the late 1990s, but it was the power ballad “With Arms Wide Open” that gave the group a permanent place in rock history. The song, written by Stapp and Mark Tremonti about the emotions of impending fatherhood, reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in November 2000 and won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Song in 2001.

Stapp once said the success of the song was life-changing for him.

“It changed my life, and I have just a sense of appreciation for that song coming to me and Mark when it did and it’s still relevant in my life today,” he told Kyle Brandt’s The Ringer, per Loudwire.

More than two decades after Creed’s breakthrough, Stapp continues to make music and often reflects on the band’s enduring legacy.

After forming in the mid-1990s in Tallahassee, Florida, Creed recorded hits such as “My Own Prison,” “Higher,” “My Sacrifice,” and headlined an iconic 2001 NFL Thanksgiving Day halftime show performance before splitting in 2004. The band has since had several revivals and reunions. Stapp also joined the supergroup Art of Anarchy and released four solo albums.

Over the years, Stapp has been vocal about his struggles with sobriety and other difficuties in his personal life.

In 2024, he told People magazine, “I’ve gone through a pretty difficult period in life over the last four years. I’m hanging in there — just one hour at a time, one thing at a time. Taking little bites of the elephant and then just waking up again and doing it all over the next day. A lot going on, but all good stuff.”

Stapp also explained why he always feels the need to make music, even when he’s not in a band.

“I feel compelled to create. It’s who I am,”  the singer shared. “So if I’m not doing it with Creed, there’s a void. I have to do it. There’s stuff in me as an artist and as a creative that I have to get out. Music is my method of doing that.”

RELATED: 1980 Rock Classic, Written as a Message to Rocker’s Wife, Remains a Timeless Anthem of Hope 46 Years Later

In recent years, Stapp has often marveled over the fact that Creed’s music has been introduced to new, younger audiences, with some songs going viral on social media platforms such as TikTok.

“And then you look at the analytics, and you realize that when you look at the numbers, it's three generations,” he said in a 2024 radio interview with I-Rock 93.5, per Blabbermouth.net. “And now it's gotten down into high school kids. And so, what a gift and what a blessing. And I do not take that for granted. I understand how rare that is.”

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Vera Blue's stripped-down cover of Radiohead's "Creep" for triple j's Like A Version has left listeners emotionally floored, with fans across social media describing the performance as one of the most moving covers they've ever heard.

The Australian singer-songwriter pared the 1992 alt-rock staple down to just guitar, piano and vocals, building from a quiet, restrained opening into a soaring falsetto by the final chorus. Blue said she wanted the arrangement to feel genuinely haunting, describing the song's lyrics as heartbreaking even as she stayed true to the emotional core of Thom Yorke's original.

The reaction online has been overwhelming. Commenters described getting chills, tearing up, and feeling like the performance belonged in a film score. Several said they went in expecting little from yet another "Creep" cover, having heard countless versions over the years, only to come away completely surprised by how much this one affected them.

Others pointed to specific moments in the performance as the ones that broke them emotionally, particularly a stretch late in the song where Blue's vocals build into something several listeners called shattering. Many said the vulnerability in her voice made a decades-old song feel entirely new again, with more than one commenter comparing the experience to being transported somewhere else entirely while watching.

Toward the end of the performance, Blue introduced a rare mouth-controlled synth instrument, adding an eerie, otherworldly layer that several fans said pushed the cover from great into unforgettable. The unexpected addition became one of the most talked-about parts of the entire performance, with listeners calling the moment both strange and mesmerizing in the best way.

For an artist who has spent years quietly building a devoted following, the emotional response to this performance suggests she's not just retaining her longtime fans, she's turning complete strangers into believers with a single, haunting performance

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Sandals are essential summer footwear, but not all styles offer enough support to wear comfortably for hours on end. If you're been searching for a stylish, pillowy option that can also help alleviate foot pain or fatigue, Walmart has a new shoe deal that you won't want to miss out on. The bestselling Crocs Getaway Platform H-Strap Sandals are currently on sale for nearly 45% off, and they've earned over 540 five-star ratings for their "soft" and "cushy" design. 

Available in sizes 4 to 11, the platform sandals are now marked to as low as $25, down from $45, in both the black and latte style. You can also shop it in a quartz color and a glittery stucco hue at varying prices, although availability depends on both size and color. 

Crocs Getaway Platform H-Strap Sandals, $25 (were $45) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

These top-rated sandals feature an ultra-soft, spongy footbed that allows your feet to sink in with every step, offering plush, cloud-like comfort for walking and traveling. The shoes feature buttery smooth straps in a chic H-shaped design, with a lightweight, flexible feel that effortlessly moves with you throughout your day. The roomy fit is breathable and airy enough to wear in hot temperatures, although the brand notes that it may be slightly loose on narrow feet. 

Featuring an open rounded toe and a seamless one-piece construction, these sandals are made to feel like you're wearing nothing on your feet, thanks to Crocs' Free Feel technology. It has a grippy, non-slop outsole and a chunky 1.6-inch platform heel that adds an instantly flattering lift, making these shoes easy to dress up or down for a variety of occasions. 

Related: Walmart's 'Stretchy' $15 Cotton Cargo Shorts Are 'Perfect for Outdoor Adventures' and Come in 10 Colors

The Crocs Getaway Platform sandals are a favorite among Walmart shoppers, who highlighted the "supportive" footbed. One reviewer said the "stylish" shoes offer "all-day" comfort, while another noted that they're "super comfortable" and "go with everything." Several also praised the shoes for helping to alleviate foot ailments, with one writing it's "the only shoe that has helped my foot pain, and actually cute!" 

Shop More Deals

• Ecetana Women's Flat Sandals, $20 (were $26) at Walmart
• Burudani Soft Cushion Flip-Flops, $13 (were $39) at Walmart
• Litfun Sports Flip-Flops, $20 (were $35) at Walmart

If you want chic sandals that you can wear all day comfortably, these stylish H-strap platform slip-ins are an excellent pick. They're supportive, easy to dress up or down, and available in four colors that complement any wardrobe. Grab a pair for under $30 at Walmart now. 

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.

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One of the best ways to travel is to explore a new destination entirely on your own terms, but traveling solo also means packing items that can help you feel safe and secure throughout your trip. Having the right carry-on essentials on hand can give you extra peace of mind wherever your travels take you.

As someone who covers shopping and travel essentials for outlets like Editorialist, Coveteur, Martha Stewart Weddings and Harper’s Bazaar, I’ve tested and tried countless travel essentials over the years and learned which ones are actually worth packing. These carry-on essentials for solo travelers over 50 will make your next trip feel a little easier from takeoff to landing.

Related: 8 Minimalist Carry-On Finds For Travelers Over 50

Master Lock Small Travel Safe with Cable

Amazon

Having a portable safe you can bring with you will provide extra peace of mind when traveling solo, especially when you want to keep important belongings like your passport, cash, credit cards and phone secure. The cable lets you attach it to a fixed object in your hotel room or vacation rental, while the water-resistant, shock-absorbing design adds another layer of protection without taking up space in your bag. 

Get it on AmazonTravel Vacuum Bags

Amazon

One of the best ways to fit all of your favorite items into a carry-on is with vacuum bags. This set comes with several different sizes and a portable rechargeable vacuum, so you can easily compress your clothes wherever you’re staying and make more room in your suitcase.

Get it on AmazonLuggage Travel Cup Holder

Amazon

If you tend to have multiple drinks with you, whether it’s your water bottle or an iced coffee from the airport, a luggage cup holder is both practical and an item you’ll be glad you packed. This one easily attaches to your suitcase handle, keeping your drinks within reach while freeing up your hands as you make your way through the airport. 

Get it on Amazon

Related: 8 Best Carry-On Essentials for Solo Travelers

LILLUSORY Women's 2 Piece Lounge Sets

Amazon

A cozy set you can wear to the airport as well as separately for other outfits is a great way to get more out of what you pack. Wear the pieces together for the flight, then mix and match them with other items in your suitcase throughout the trip, giving you several outfit options without taking up extra space in your carry-on. 

Get it on AmazonOtterBox Sole Series Phone Case

Amazon

This phone case is easy to use and lets you keep small essentials like lip balm and cards within reach at the back of your phone, which can be especially handy when you’re in a rush. It’s also incredibly sturdy, with military-grade drop protection, so it’s a fantastic option for keeping your phone protected throughout your travels. 

Get it on AmazonPower Bank Built-in 2 Cables Keychain

Amazon

This portable charger is a convenient gadget you can clip onto your bag or backpack, which makes it easier to keep within reach while traveling. This has built-in charging cables and can power up to five devices at once, including your phone and Apple Watch, so you have the chargers you need all in one compact keychain.

Get it on Amazon

Related: 8 Best Carry-On Essentials for Travelers With Pets

EcoNour Portable Handheld Fan

Amazon

 This powerful portable fan extends and folds, making it convenient to pack in your carry-on and use whenever you need to cool down. It has five speed settings, provides up to 12 hours of cooling and can be used as either a handheld or desk fan, making it especially useful for warmer destinations. 

Get it on AmazonROAME Disposable Toilet Seat Covers

Amazon

In case you’re in a situation where you need to use a public restroom, having disposable toilet seat covers on hand can be incredibly convenient, whether you’re at the airport, on the plane or out exploring. Made for everyday convenience, these biodegradable liners are slim enough to easily tuck into your carry-on. 

Get it on Amazon

Related: 8 Best Carry-On Essentials for Travelers With Pets

Former Strictly Come Dancing professionals Ola and James Jordan have confirmed they are separating after more than two decades of marriage, bringing an end to one of the show's most recognizable love stories.

The couple's manager, Vickie White, confirmed the news in a statement, saying the pair began a trial separation some time ago. "Their shared priority remains co-parenting their daughter, Ella, and they are committed to putting her well-being first," White said. She added that the couple would greatly appreciate understanding as they navigate this difficult time.

Ola and James's relationship dates back to 1999, when a then-17-year-old Ola won the Open Polish Championship. She became James's professional dance partner shortly afterward, in March 2000, and moved to England the following month to continue their partnership. The couple married in October 2003, and their relationship would go on to unfold publicly for more than 20 years as they became fixtures on British television.

Both Ola and James went on to become fan favorites on Strictly Come Dancing. James appeared on the show from 2006 to 2013, partnering with celebrities including broadcaster Gabby Logan and The One Show presenter Alex Jones. Ola continued on the series until 2015, dancing alongside stars such as wildlife presenter Steve Backshall and Welsh sprinter Iwan Thomas.

The pair welcomed their daughter, Ella, in 2020, after years of hoping to start a family.

News of the split has taken longtime fans by surprise, with many expressing disbelief online after watching the couple's relationship play out for so many years. Several commenters wished the pair well as they move forward, while others reflected on how happy they always seemed to appear together publicly.

No further details about the future of their relationship have been shared. Both Ola and James have asked for privacy as they focus on their daughter during this transitional time.

Rikki Rockett made sure the drummer could be every bit as colorful as the frontman.

The Poison co-founder celebrates his 65th birthday on Aug. 8. With his energetic playing, theatrical style and unforgettable stage presence, Rockett helped make the band one of the most recognizable acts to emerge from the 1980s glam metal scene.

Born Richard Allan Ream in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, in 1961, Rockett developed an early obsession with music before joining forces with Bret Michaels. The two eventually left Pennsylvania for Los Angeles, where Rockett, Michaels and bassist Bobby Dall formed the early lineup of Poison.

Guitarist C.C. DeVille later completed the group's best-known lineup. After building a following through club performances and independent promotion, Poison signed with Enigma Records and released its debut album, Look What the Cat Dragged In, in 1986.

The album introduced the band to a national audience through songs including "Talk Dirty to Me" and "I Won't Forget You." Poison's brightly colored image and energetic performances also made the group a natural fit for MTV as glam metal became one of the decade's most popular forms of rock.

The band's commercial breakthrough arrived with 1988's Open Up and Say... Ahh!, which produced "Nothin' but a Good Time" and the chart-topping ballad "Every Rose Has Its Thorn." The band's official biography credits Poison with more than 40 million records and DVDs sold worldwide as well as 12 Top 10 hits.

Rockett's contribution went far beyond his visual style. His powerful drumming gave Poison's songs their momentum while his showmanship helped make the band's concerts as memorable as its music. He also received songwriting credits on many of the group's signature tracks.

Even as musical trends shifted, Rockett remained committed to the sound and personality that first connected Poison with its audience. "Evolving is one thing, but making a left from a right, that's a whole different thing," he explained in a 2025 radio interview.

Outside Poison, Rockett released the solo album Glitter 4 Your Soul in 2003 and later formed Devil City Angels. He also launched his own custom drum company and became accomplished in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, adding several new chapters to a career that began in the Pennsylvania rock scene.

Rockett faced his greatest personal challenge after being diagnosed with oral cancer in 2015. After chemotherapy and radiation failed to stop the cancer from spreading, he entered an immunotherapy clinical trial. The treatment eliminated the cancer and Rockett has continued to share his experience to raise awareness of immunotherapy and clinical trials.

His work received another honor in January 2026 when he was inducted into the Metal Hall of Fame during a ceremony celebrating the musicians who helped shape the Sunset Strip's 1980s metal scene.

Rockett is now preparing to release his first memoir, Ghost Notes: My Life in Poison. The forthcoming book covers his journey from basement bands and dishwashing jobs to rock stardom as well as his experiences with addiction, family struggles and cancer.

More than four decades after Poison formed, Rockett remains closely connected to the music and image that made the band famous. His 65th birthday celebrates a drummer whose playing and personality became an essential part of glam metal history.

Related: '90s Pop-Rock Legend and Member of Beloved Rock Band Turns 68

Janis Joplin made no mystery out of what inspired her to find her voice.

According to a 1969 interview with Hit Parader magazine, Joplin plainly credited the blues with helping her find her sound.

“Back in Port Arthur, I’d heard some Lead Belly records, and, well, if the blues syndrome is true, I guess it’s true about me… So I began listening to blues and folk music. I bought Bessie Smith and Odetta records, and one night, I was at this party, and I did an imitation of Odetta. I’d never sung before, and I came out with this huge voice.”

A simple fact is that without the blues movement, there would be no rock and roll. The artists you know and love, from Eric Clapton to Led Zeppelin, took the musical framework and deeply rooted lyricism and transformed them into the loud, electric genre we know today. Bluntly, racism is why the blues do not get the credit they deserve in rock's history, which the mainstream likes to credit Elvis Presley for "inventing." Even if Presley did "invent" rock and roll, he inherited it from the local blues he grew up with.

Related: 1981 Timeless Anthem Inspired by Janis Joplin Became One of Rock’s First No. 1 Hits

Who Is Bessie Smith and Why Did Janis Joplin Honor Her?

Smith's contribution to music is undeniable. Eventually known as the "Empress of the Blues," Smith made a name for herself on the Black vaudeville stage. It wasn't until 1923 that Smith signed with Columbia Records, and her first recording, “Downhearted Blues," catapulted her to fame. In fact, it made her the highest-earning Black entertainer of her time. She was unapologetically herself, proud of her Black heritage, openly bisexual, and fearless with her career choices.

In 1937, Smith was in a car accident so severe that it nearly severed her arm from her body. Those final moments are shrouded in mystery, with reports claiming authorities allowed Smith to bleed out while tending to white passengers who had mere bumps and scrapes, while others say she bled out while ambulances were trying to find a hospital that would treat a Black woman. Most historians now agree that Smith made it to the hospital, but by the time she got there, her injuries were so bad that she had no chance of making it. All three versions likely have some truth to them. Her family reportedly could not afford a headstone for her.

When Joplin found out that Smith was resting in an unmarked grave, she quietly purchased a headstone for her alongside Juanita Green on August 8, 1970. The epitaph read: “The Greatest Blues Singer in the World Will Never Stop Singing—Bessie Smith‐1895‐1937,” which was penned by jazz historian John Hammond.

Joplin died weeks later on October 4, 1970, at the age of 27, from a heroin overdose.

Smith's headstone can be visited at Mount Lawn Cemetery in Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia.

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In the early 1980s, hard rock was defined by soaring vocals, thunderous guitar riffs, and anthemic hooks—and all of those elements were found in the Scorpions' song “No One Like You.”

The 1982 hit introduced millions of American fans to the German rock band and remains one of the genre's most enduring anthems more than four decades later.

Written by Rudolf  Schenker and Klaus Meine, “No One Like You” featured a killer opening hook, a two-guitar attack by Schenker and Matthias Jabs, and an irresistible, arena-ready chorus. The first single from the album Blackout reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Tracks in May 1982 and became one of the defining hard rock songs of that summer.

MTV played a huge role in the Scorpions' rise in the United States. Less than a year after the all-music channel made its debut, the modest “No One Like You” music video featured performance footage amid a storyline set against the backdrop of San Francisco’s Alcatraz Island.

In an interview with Classic Rock Revisited, Matthias recalled, “’No One Like You’ was really low budget and we shot it on Alcatraz. It was great, and I am glad I went there. We were there overnight, and we locked in our bass player. Maybe we should have never let him out. He fell asleep. With one bar, you could close all of the gates in the hallway for all of the cells. Nobody knew he was sleeping in one of those cells.  We found him eventually.”

The success of the video opened the door for Scorpions to conquer America—and that they did. Speaking with Metal Hammer, Schenker recalled, “’No One Like You’ was the most-played song on U.S. radio in 1982. That was pretty crazy. From there we were able to do our first headlining shows in the States, with Iron Maiden and Girlschool, and we did fantastically well. We were really riding on this high wave, and so I was thinking even bigger… what could I write next, you know?”

Even the band was floored by the song’s success in the U.S.

“People asked us, 'Why are you guys coming from Germany, and you have this No. 1 single in the United States? What is this secret?'” Schenker said in a Songfacts interview. “I said, 'Maybe it is because we see things in a different way. We explain things differently, and we go very deep inside with the music and the lyrics, and we have a different view. And people start liking this view because it's not the same as the views of other people."

Scorpions would later produce other MTV-fueled classics such as “Rock You Like a Hurricane” and “Wind of Change.” But more than 40 years after its release, “No One Like You” remains a cornerstone of the band’s legacy—and a timeless staple on rock radio.

Related: How Milton Berle Took Over Ratt’s ‘Round and Round’ Video in 1984

Every gardener dreams of harvesting baskets overflowing with fresh vegetables—until they actually grow zucchini. By early August, many home gardeners have more zucchini than they know what to do with. 

After making zucchini bread, grilling zucchini, baking zucchini casserole, and giving it to friends and family, there often seems to be only one option left: quietly leave a few on someone else's porch and hope they'll enjoy the surprise.

As strange as it sounds, that's exactly the idea behind National Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor's Porch Day, celebrated every year on August 8, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac. The lighthearted holiday embraces one of gardening's oldest jokes, while encouraging neighbors to share the bounty of their summer harvest.

At first glance, National Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor's Porch Day sounds like one of the internet's strangest holidays. But beneath the humor is a surprisingly wholesome message: when your garden gives you more than you need, share it.

Why Is There a Holiday for Sneaking Zucchini Onto Someone's Porch? Consider leaving some zucchini in a basket for National Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor's Porch Day on August 8th.

WR Heustis

The holiday was created by Pennsylvania humorist Tom Roy, who is known for inventing whimsical holidays celebrating life's little oddities. His inspiration was simple: zucchini plants are famously prolific, and by August, gardeners often have far more of the vegetable than they can possibly eat.

Rather than letting the extra harvest go to waste, the holiday encourages gardeners to anonymously share their surplus with neighbors—a playful tradition that's equal parts practical and funny.

Why Does Everyone Have So Much Zucchini? If your zucchini plant has an abundant harvest, consider sharing your bounty for National Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor's Porch Day on August 8th.

Gu Bra

There's a reason zucchini has become the unofficial mascot of overachieving vegetable gardens.

A healthy zucchini plant can produce pounds of squash over the course of a single growing season, especially when fruit is harvested regularly. Even just one or two plants can generate more zucchini than an average household can keep up with, leaving gardeners searching for creative ways to use—or share—their harvest.

How Do You Celebrate National Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor's Porch Day? For National Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor's Porch Day on August 8th, select a few veggies to share with family and friends.

Néstor Santos

The traditional celebration is exactly what the name suggests: quietly leave a few fresh zucchini on a neighbor's porch, ring the bell if you'd like, and head home before they discover their surprise.

If you're worried your gift might confuse them, consider attaching a friendly note signed by "The Zucchini Fairy" or another playful gardening nickname so they know the vegetables were left with good intentions.

Other Fun Ways to Share Your Zucchini Harvest Share your harvest with others in honor of National Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor's Porch Day on August 8th.

Les Bourgeonniers

Not comfortable sneaking vegetables onto someone's porch? There are plenty of other ways to spread the wealth.

• Host a neighborhood zucchini swap where gardeners can trade extra produce.
• Invite friends over for a zucchini-themed cookout featuring recipes like grilled zucchini, fritters, or zucchini bread.
• Donate extra squash to a local food pantry or community kitchen.
• Set up a free basket at the end of your driveway with a sign inviting neighbors to take what they need.

If you're already starting to scope out fall thrills, Halloween haunt events, and budget-friendly weekend getaways with the family, Southern California’s top theme parks just handed you the ultimate excuse to lock in your plans.

Six Flags Magic Mountain and Knott’s Berry Farm have officially launched their 2027 Season Pass sales—and for a limited time, they are available at the single lowest price you'll see all year or next.

The best part? You don't have to wait until 2027 to start using them. Anyone who snags a 2027 pass early gets immediate, unlimited access to their home parks for the remainder of the 2026 season. That means you can use your pass right away to hit classic fall and winter traditions, including Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park at Magic Mountain, or Knott’s Spooky Farm and Knott’s Merry Farm down in Buena Park.

Related: Six Flags Announces Major Upgrade to Gold Season Passes

Knotts Berry Farm Sizzle Video (0:33) 2027 Season Pass Options & Tier Breakdown

For coaster enthusiasts and regional travelers, the pass options pack a massive punch:

• The 2027 Gold Pass: Beyond unlimited entry to Magic Mountain (and Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles) or Knott’s Berry Farm, this tier unlocks access across West Coast parks—including Knott’s Soak City, California’s Great America, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Northern California, and Hurricane Harbor Phoenix—plus free general parking (at select parks) and food, merchandise, and ticket discounts.
• The 2027 Prestige Pass: Built for ultimate theme park VIPs, this top-tier pass elevates the experience with admission to all Six Flags and former Cedar Fair parks across North America, preferred parking, complimentary fountain beverages on every visit, access to dedicated VIP entrance lines during the first two operating hours on select days, two free Bring-A-Friend tickets, and one free single-use Fast Lane voucher per visit.

Related: Six Flags Magic Mountain Just Unveiled Its Reimagined Looney Tunes Land

The launch comes at a particularly exciting time for both parks. Knott’s Berry Farm recently debuted the highly anticipated reimagining of MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortressalongside the new Crafty’s Kitchen dining venue, while Knott’s Soak City is gearing up for the 2027 arrival of two brand-new water attractions, Coral Craze and Kelp Kraze. Meanwhile, Magic Mountain is teasing upcoming details for an all-new coaster scheduled to land at the "Thrill Capital of the World" next year.

To lock in these guaranteed lowest rates of the season, theme park fans need to act fast: the limited-time launch pricing runs only through September 7, 2026. You can grab your pass online today at sixflags.com/magicmountain or knotts.com.

Related: Six Flags Great Adventure Is Revealing Its Next Big Coaster Tomorrow

Researchers at Stanford University just crossed a line science fiction warned us about for decades: they used artificial intelligence to design a living virus from scratch, and it worked.

The AI models behind it, known as Evo1 and Evo2, function similarly to ChatGPT, except instead of predicting the next word in a sentence, they predict the genetic code of life itself. Trained on genetic data pulled from viruses, bacteria, plants and humans, the AI generated hundreds of potential virus blueprints, and researchers picked the most promising ones to bring to life in the lab.

Of the 302 AI-generated designs the team synthesized, 16 turned out to be fully functional, capable of infecting and killing E. coli bacteria on their own. These are known as bacteriophages, viruses that only target bacteria and pose no danger to humans, at least by design.

Researchers say the moment they confirmed it was working happened in the early hours of the morning, watching bacteria die off in real time on a petri dish. When the news reached the wider team, the room reportedly "spontaneously burst into applause."

But Should This Have Been Done at All?

That's the question a growing number of experts are asking. Biosecurity researchers at Johns Hopkins University's Center for Health Security say the breakthrough raises urgent safety and security questions, and argue that virus designs with the potential to cause disease should never be pursued, full stop.

The Stanford team insists it built in safeguards, training its AI only on organisms incapable of infecting complex life and running every experiment inside a secure lab using bacteria-only viruses. But critics online have already raised an uncomfortable point: today's safeguards depend entirely on today's intentions. Technology, once built, doesn't stay contained to the hands that built it responsibly.

So is this the start of a new era of medicine, or the opening chapter of something far riskier? Right now, even the scientists behind it aren't fully sure.

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Finding the perfect everyday drinking glass sounds like it should be one of the easier home decisions, right? And yet it becomes a surprisingly personal quest. You want a glass that can survive the daily chaos of a kitchen counter, dishwasher cycles and the occasional "oops, I definitely did not place that near the edge of the table" moment. But you also don't want something that looks like it came free with a soda promotion in 1998. (Or maybe you do—no judgement.)

The ideal glass needs a little heft, a comfortable feel in your hand and enough room to hold more than three sips of water before you're immediately back at the sink asking yourself why you didn't just get a bigger one. (That takes Five Below's mini tumblers off the list.) Bonus points if it can handle ice, a fancy little garnish or whatever beverage personality you're channeling that day.

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Fall Leaves Glass Coolers, 15-Ounce, $1.50 at Dollar Tree

Dollar Tree

Shop It!

Let's be real, our glasses work hard. They are there for morning hydration and afternoon iced coffee experiments. So when a style comes along that combines practicality with a little seasonal charm, it's worth paying attention. That's why I'm introducing you to Dollar Tree's Fall Leaves Glass Cooler, a 15-ounce vessel perfect for your day-to-day beverage needs. If you feel like you're having deja vu, this is a perennial favorite at Dollar Tree. The retailer brings this glassware back each year because shoppers love it so much.

Related: A Beloved 1995 Childhood Classic Was Just Immortalized in the Cutest Slippers at Five Below

The Fall Leaves pattern also comes in a shorter stemless wine glass version, priced at $1.50 each, just like the cooler. For that price, you can buy a full set of 12 for just $18, which feels awfully budget-friendly to me.

Dollar Tree customers love the look and feel of these so much, they're pretty sure even grandma would be proud of the purchase.

"My grandmother had printed glasses in her kitchen cabinet," says a shopper in their review. "Now I'm carrying on the tradition and collecting printed glasses from Dollar Tree. My nieces and nephews look forward to coming over and grabbing a 'fancy glass'. And my friends love the way I set my table for different seasons. Thank you Dollar Tree for adding such a nice touch to my home. My grandmother would be so happy!"

Who can say no to something that's grandma-approved? I'll let you answer that.

Related: Michaels' 2-Piece Domed Cake Stand Looks Like a Vintage Treasure—No Flea Market Foraging Required

Elizabeth Hurley is soaking up the sun in a mint green bikini and leopard print robe.

The British beauty, 61, who is known for roles in films like Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery and Bedazzled, and TV series like The Royals, is also a swimwear designer who frequently shows off her hot stuff on social media. That's why it's no surprise that Hurley took to the beach on Friday to strut her stuff as she strolled through the surf.

"Life’s a beach 💋," the brunette bombshell captioned her photo, which showed her sporting one of her favorite bikinis from her swimwear line, Elizabeth Hurley Swimwear.

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Elizabeth's Son, Damian Hurley, Looks Just Like Her

It’s Elizabeth's lookalike son, Damian Hurley, who frequently shocks fans thanks to his DNA basically being a copy and paste of his mother’s.

In a post honoring her son for his 24th birthday, Hurley posted a throwback photo from when Damian was just a little boy, as well as a more recent photo that showed the duo alongside each other. With their faces right next to each other, the resemblance is truly mindblowing.

“Happy 24th birthday to the light of my life ❤️ My No. 1 forever & ever ❤️ I love you@damianhurley1 💋💋💋,” Hurley captioned the photo set, to which Damian replied, “Awww I love you mama twin forever ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️.”

View this post on Instagram Damian Is a Big Fan of His Mom's Boyfriend, Billy Ray Cyrus

Back during Christmas time, Damian supported his mom as she hung out with her boyfriend, Billy Ray Cyrus. It’s great to see the whole trio getting along great! It’s been about one year since Hurley hard-launched her romance with Cyrus on Instagram on Easter of 2025.

View this post on Instagram What Does Damian Hurley Do Professionally?

In addition to modeling work, Damian is pursuing a career in filmmaking.

“I’ve been writing and directing little short films since I was eight, torturing all my long-suffering family and friends to be in them,” he told the Standard in February. “I was a lethal kid recruiting people for my films. No one escaped. My godfathers are Hugh [Grant], Elton John,and David and Denis Leary, who’s an extraordinary comedian, all my mum’s friends. Dame Joan Collins, everyone. I tortured everyone,” he said. “To see so intimately brilliant actors being brilliant; just giants within their careers, was an amazing thing to see.”

Related: Elizabeth Hurley Just Wished Her Lookalike Son a Happy 24th Birthday, and He’s Basically Her Twin

Connie Stevens was working on Hawaiian Eye when somebody put a call through to her. It was a fan of the show, Elvis Presley, and he wanted to know if he could pick her up for a party. She said yes, sure.

Stevens turns 88 on Saturday, Aug. 8, the same day Elvis Week opens at Graceland.

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The Boys on Set Had Opinions About Her Dating

She was under contract at Warner Bros., playing a nightclub singer who had to perform a number every week on the show. Her 1959 duet with Edd Byrnes, "Kookie, Kookie (Lend Me Your Comb)," reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. Her castmates, she has said, "would say who I could date and who I couldn't." She told them to mind their own business.

'A Hell of a Way to Date'

They dated in the early 1960s, and Presley came with a crowd. Stevens told him she could not take having dinner with 11 guys every single night, so she asked if they could just go to the movies, and that turned out to be an enormous deal. One of his guys had to put money in his pocket and get him dressed. They went in after the movie started and left before it ended. "This is a hell of a way to date," she remembered thinking.

When he came to the house to get her, her father was out watering the garden. Within five minutes the two of them were laughing and talking. Stevens watched from the window, then went outside and stood there another five or 10 minutes while they chatted.

She Spent the Next Six Decades on Everything Else

She made her Broadway debut in 1966, played Vegas and toured with Bob Hope for the USO. The nurses she met on those tours brought her along to Vietnam in 1997 to film the hospitals they had worked in. After Hurricane Katrina, she loaded a bus with relief supplies and drove to Mississippi. Later, Stevens founded Windfeather, which puts Native American students through college. She did not direct her first film until her 70s.

Until the day Presley died, Stevens said, her father was still telling her that was the boy she should have been with.

Hank Williams Jr.’s beard, dark sunglasses and cowboy hat have been part of his image for so long that it’s hard to imagine him any other way.

But that signature look wasn’t originally a fashion statement.

It grew out of one of the most traumatic moments of his life.

On Aug. 8, 1975, Williams, 77, was mountain climbing on Ajax Peak near Whitefish, Montana, when he slipped and fell nearly 500 feet down the mountainside. According to his account, he landed on a large boulder and suffered severe injuries, including multiple skull and facial fractures.

The accident was so serious that Williams underwent extensive reconstructive surgery and spent a long period recovering. Friends and family later described the injuries as life-threatening, and his recovery became a major turning point both personally and professionally.

After the accident, Williams began growing a beard and wearing sunglasses and a cowboy hat to help conceal the scars and facial changes left by his injuries. What started as a practical way to cope with the aftermath eventually became his trademark appearance.

The timing was significant.

Before the accident, Williams was often viewed as the son of country legend Hank Williams, and much of his early career had been shaped by that connection. In the years that followed, he moved toward a rougher, more independent sound that blended country, southern rock and outlaw influences.

Songs such as "Family Tradition," "Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound" and "All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight" helped establish him as a major star in his own right, and the bearded, sunglasses-wearing image became inseparable from that era of his career.

Today, the look is instantly recognizable to country fans.

But behind the beard and the shades is a reminder that one of country music’s most enduring visual trademarks was born from a near-fatal accident that changed his life forever.

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‘Tis the season. Well, spooky season that is. This year, Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort officially kicks off on Aug. 21, bringing with it spooky décor, ride overlays and most important: frighteningly delicious eats. Foolish mortals won’t want to miss the seriously yummy bites, which include returning favorites, like the Jolly Holiday Bakery BooGogi beef toasted cheese sandwich and Mickey Mouseshortbread bat cookie. There’s also must-order new options, like a tantalizing churro hand tart.

No matter what you decide to try, the additions transform the “Happiest Place on Earth” into a foodie’s frightful delight.

Related: Disneyland Reveals its Fall Line-up

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Park goers can expect plenty of fang-tastic returning favorites, like Harbour Galley’s seasonal pumpkin cookies and the spicy Oogie Boogie burrito from Hollywood Lounge. Creepy new cravings can also be found, like buffalo chicken ranch pull-apart bread, sweet and tangy gochujang wings and an apple pie sundae.  The iconic Little Red Wagon, known for its hand-dipped corn dogs, will be serving an inventive version of the classic with spicy chili and jalapeno-cilantro crema.

Disneyland regulars in the know, won’t want to miss a spooktacular lineup of specialty coffees, including a Vietnamese coffee with ube sweet cream foam, a brown butter maple cold brew and the Grizzly pumpkin cold brew latte. And when it comes to cocktails, there’s a bewitching selection to choose from, like a new caramel apple martini. Specialty churro dips, a hallmark of Disneyland holidays, also abound, including cranberry cream cheese dip and apple pie dip.

Related: All 6 Major Halloween Experiences Coming to Universal Orlando

Plaza de la Familia also returns to Disney California Adventure Park, celebrating Dia de los Muertos, Aug. 21 through Nov. 2, bringing with it limited-time eats inspired by Disney and Pixar’s “Coco.”

The fun continues at the Disneyland Resort hotels with seasonal cocktails at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar, Goofy’s Kitchen Celebrates Halloween, the return of the beloved Grand Californian Great Hall Cart and much more. Collectors will also discover a number of novelty items around the resort, including the Oogie Boogie Moon Glow Cube and a vampire Mickey Mouse bucket.

Guests visiting Oogie Boogie Bash, a must-do after-hours event at Disney California Adventure Park, have even more options to choose from. Highlights include the Haunted Highway Cocktail, crafted with pineapple lemonade, blue Curacao, apple pucker and Sprite, a fitting sip to enjoy while experiencing the brand new Haunted Mansion Street Party, Madame Leota’s Swinging Wake. Attendees can also purchase the event exclusive Headless Horseman popcorn bucket. And for the ultimate way to enjoy the party, the Oogie Boogie Bash Dessert Party returns, offering reserved seating for Madame Leota’s Swinging Wake and tempting treats. The event runs select nights Aug. 18 through Oct. 31.

Related: A New Attraction is Coming To Walt Disney World

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort runs from Aug. 21 through Oct. 31. With spooky delights and crisper weather, Halloween is a favorite time to visit the bustling Southern California resort. And on tap this year is family-friendly entertainment, characters in spooky attire, the return of Haunted Mansion Holiday, and much more. 

Related: Disneyland Reveals Its Fall Lineup, and Spoiler—It's Wicked Fun