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The Challenge is heading somewhere completely new for season 42.

Premiering Wednesday, Aug. 5 on Paramount+, The Challenge: Cutthroat was filmed entirely in Thailand, giving contestants a dramatic backdrop for one of the franchise's biggest format changes in years. Twenty-four veterans and newcomers will battle in three teams for a share of a $500,000 prize while tackling physical and mental challenges across the Southeast Asian nation.

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Where was 'The Challenge' Season 42 Filmed? The Sanam Chai Canal in Bangkok, Thailand, filming location of 'The Challenge 42.'

ourism Authority of Thailand

Season 42 was filmed across Thailand, with production taking place in Bangkok, Pattaya and locations throughout the Chon Buri Province. According to Thailand's Tourism Authority, the season showcases everything from bustling city streets to coastal scenery and outdoor landscapes as competitors face the show's signature challenges.

Executive producer Justin Booth said Thailand offered exactly the kind of setting the series was looking for.

"Going into season 42, we wanted to showcase not only the competition fans know and love, but also the incredible sense of place that Thailand brings to the series."

Booth added that Bangkok's energy and the coastal landscapes of Pattaya and Chon Buri elevated every aspect of the competition.

Host T.J. Lavin echoed those comments, saying Thailand created "some of the most intense and exciting moments we've ever captured."

"The scenery, scale, and sense of adventure elevated every challenge, and I think fans are going to be blown away by what they see this season."

Why Thailand?

According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the partnership was designed to introduce international audiences to the country's cities, beaches and outdoor destinations while highlighting Thailand as a filming destination for major productions. The season incorporates urban environments, coastal views and natural landscapes into many of its competitions, making the location an integral part of the new season rather than simply a backdrop.

The new season also marks the return of the three-team "Cutthroat" format, inspired by the original 2010 season, as competitors fight for a share of the $500,000 grand prize beginning Aug. 5 on Paramount+. In fact, two of the original Cutthroat competitors are back for Return to Cutthroat—Brad Fiorenza, whose team won, and Cara Maria Sorbello, whose team came in second place.

The Challenge: Cutthroat season 42 premieres Wednesday, August 5 at 3 a.m. ET/12 a.m. PT on Paramount+ with two back-to-back episodes. Subsequent new episodes drop every Wednesday at the same time.

Related: 'The Challenge' Season 42: Cast, Premiere Date, Trailer, How to Watch and More

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Sandal season is officially in full swing. Flip-flops, strappy slides, sporty clogs, cork footbeds, woven styles — they’re all back in rotation. But as much as we love an open-toe moment, it’s not always the most practical choice, especially for things like workdays, super long walks or less-than-smooth terrains like dirt and gravel. That’s where slip-on styles come in. They give you that same breathable, warm-weather feel, but with a bit more structure and support, making them a smart in-between option.

Right now, Amazon has a standout pair from Clarks that fits the bill perfectly. The Breeze Roam Slip-Ons are up to 43% off right now on Amazon, bringing the original $70 price tag as low as $40. With a crochet-like look, they're an easy, wear-on-repeat pick that works across all summer plans. Shoppers can snag them in either navy, beige, black, or black and white.

Clarks Breeze Roam Slip-Ons, From $40 (were $70) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The upper of these flat slip-ons features a detailed perforated construction that combines fine pinprick holes with larger petal- and leaf-shaped cutouts, creating a subtle floral pattern that adds both visual texture and airflow. This design not only gives the shoe a more elevated look than a standard slip-on but also adds breathability and airiness in warmer weather. A softly elasticized topline is built in for a secure, flexible fit that moves with your foot without feeling restrictive, while the rounded toe is a classic, versatile shape that works across a range of outfits.

A 25-millimeter platform provides a slight lift without compromising stability, and the layered outsole features slim stripe detailing along the sidewall for a more modern, sneaker-inspired finish. Inside, the shoe is equipped with Clarks’ cushion-soft foam footbed, which is removable and designed to deliver shock absorption and consistent underfoot support. The base is finished with a flexible, textured thermoplastic rubber outsole that enhances traction and durability, making the shoes suitable for a variety of surfaces.

These shoes come in three easy neutral shades that go with just about everything, making the style simple to work into your everyday rotation. Shoppers especially love how easy it is to find the “perfect fit,” with regular-width sizes running in half increments from 5 through 12, plus narrow and wide options available as well. Pricing can vary depending on the size, color, and width you choose, so it’s worth double-checking before adding to cart.

Reviewers had plenty to say about these “cushioned” and “stretchy” slip-ons, calling them “comfortable” and “lightweight,” adding that they offer “great support for all-day comfort.” One shopper noted that the fit is “true to size" and added that they "are holding up well so far with frequent summer wearing.

Related: Amazon’s Narrow Freestanding Storage Cabinet Is a Genius Fix for Cluttered Bathrooms

If you’re looking for a summer-ready shoe that’s equal parts comfortable and versatile, this $40 pair is a must. Grab the Clarks Breeze Roam Slip-Ons now at Amazon while they’re still up to 43% off.

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It’s the circle of life!

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park has an exciting addition. Bakari, a young silverback western lowland gorilla, has been tapped into his new role as the leader of the family troop. He’s moved into the park’s Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail, a lush attraction where guests can spot wildlife in their natural habitats, as part of a conservation program aimed at maintaining genetically diverse gorilla populations.

Related: The Absolute Best Eats at Disney's Animal Kingdom

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The addition comes after the passing of beloved Gino, the park’s oldest gorilla and leader since its opening in 1998. Known for his playful spirit, he touched countless lives of guests and Cast Members during his time. He was also one of the first gorillas in the world to allow caretakers to perform cardiac ultrasounds with anesthesia, providing a more accurate reading of his heart health.

The troop’s leader plays an important role in protecting the family and maintaining a cohesive dynamic. And the addition of Bakari marks an exciting new chapter.

Related: Disney Parks Fans Won't Want To Miss This Documentary

“Bringing Bakari here is bittersweet because it means we’ve said goodbye to Gino, who was our silverback for almost 30 years since the park’s opening,” shared Rachel, animal care manager with Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment, in a press release. “But it’s also incredibly exciting. Bakari is the future of this family troop, and we’re looking forward to watching him grow into that role and hopefully help welcome new generations of gorillas for years to come.”

To get settled, animal care experts have carefully introduced the gorilla in a multi-step process that allows them to build positive social relationships. The introduction happens gradually as they adjust to the new dynamic. Experts have already noted his calm and easygoing demeanor.

“This is all very new for Bakari,” explained Rachel. “Our goal is to help him feel comfortable and confident at every stage. We take the process slowly because building those social relationships with the females is incredibly important.”

Related: Disney World Has Revealed Details About Its Highly Anticipated Land

Every step of the way, the park’s animal care teams are on hands to observe and lend their expertise. It is supported by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Special Survival Plan, which “helps maintain strong, genetically diverse populations of western lowland gorillas in managed care.” The pairing of Bakari with females helps strengthen the long-term future of the population, ensuring future generations can connect with the critically endangered species.

The company’s legacy of protecting the magic of nature is built through the Disney Conservation Fund. Over the last 3 decades, the DCF has directed more than $4.5 million in support.

Related: The Absolute Best Eats at Animal Kingdom Ranked, According to a Disney Food Author

Michigan health officials have confirmed two deaths linked to the summer’s Cyclospora infections, which have been linked to iceberg lettuce. The CDC and the FDA are working with health officials in multiple states to get to the bottom of the outbreak.

On Aug. 3, 2026, Michigan officials confirmed that two people have died from the parasite, and the CDC says it will update its website once laboratory tests have come through. The summer’s Cyclospora outbreak has affected 45 states, and there have been 18,000 cases reported. The CDC’s website has nine states listed, but it also only has 1,947 cases, as that is what has been confirmed by the organization. The CDC is currently testing and confirming other reports.

When you look at the CDC website as of Aug. 4, 2026, you’ll notice that the death count still sits at zero. This is because the agency needs to check the laboratory results first, and there is a notice on the website about that. The CDC is aware of Michigan health officials’ statements.

The two patients who have sadly died had underlying health conditions, although the exact conditions were not announced due to regulations and privacy. These health conditions were worsened due to severe dehydration and by the infection, the public health officials have stated. Other patients are still being monitored, and there is still a call to look out for any signs of the infection.

The federal agencies were quickly able to track down the initial source of the paradise, which came from shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms in central Mexico. That lettuce was served in fast-food chains, with Taco Bell being specifically mentioned, and since then, there have been voluntary recalls.

The CDC has said that Cyclospora listeria is rarely deadly. It’s important to reinstate that the two deaths linked to this had underlying health conditions. Those with symptoms, which include severe watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and fatigue, should seek medical attention, especially if they have other health problems.

Symptoms usually begin around a week after eating contaminated food. For some, symptoms will only last a few days, but for others, the symptoms can continue for a month. Even if you have thrown out the contaminated lettuce, all surfaces need to be disinfected. 

Salma Hayek and her lookalike daughter, ValentinaPaloma Pinault, are the ultimate dynamic duo.

The acclaimed actress, 59, whose resume includes everything from rom-coms like Fools Rush In to groundbreaking films like Frida, may be one of Hollywood's most stunning stars, but she's also a devoted mom. Married to billionaire François-Henri Pinault, 64, the couple loves to spend time with Valentina, 18. And in the latest episode of Instagram's Carversations, the mother and daughter discuss their love of fashion and style as they cruise through Barcelona.

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Celebrating Valentina’s 18th Birthday

Valentina recently turned 18. In a sweet photo carousel that showed the family celebrating the big birthday, Hayek expressed her love for her lookalike daughter on her special day.

“We ate, we danced, we laughed, we loved… and we kept the party going all weekend. Happy birthday mi cielo, celebrating you never feels long enough 🎂💃❤️,” Hayek captioned the post, which was also translated into Spanish.

View this post on Instagram Hayek Is Also a Proud Stepmother

Hayek previously spoke about her desire to have a big family, and the way it all came together with Pinault, who already had three children, François, Mathilde, and Augustin, when they got together.

“I always wanted to have a lot of children, and I was not able to. My body, as a miracle, had one,” Hayek told Red in 2017. “The huge blessing I’ve had is that my husband has three other children. So, I have four. And they are all so different.”

Related: Find Out More About Salma Hayek’s Husband, Mogul François-Henri Pinault

Hayek’s stepson, Augustin, who goes by Augie, was also celebrated by Hayek last year upon his high school graduation.

“Augie!!! We are so PROUD 🥹 of you. Congratulations for becoming the extraordinary young man that you are and managing to still be our lovely boy, and congratulations to Linda, Francois, and all the parents who got our babies up to this point. Easier said than done 🎓#graduation,” Hayek captioned the sweet photo set.

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Related: Salma Hayek, 59, Shows That Graying Hair Is Red Carpet Gold Alongside Husband François-Henri Pinault, 63

Early mornings aren't for everyone—but for some people, they're where the magic happens. There's a unique sense of peace, clarity, and possibility that comes with watching the world before most people even wake up, and those born in the following three months (April, May, August) often feel especially drawn to an early-bird lifestyle. Their personalities naturally align with fresh starts, much like a productive morning, and naturally, making the most of every day.

What Your Birth Month Means in Astrology

In astrology, your birth month provides valuable insights into the cosmic energy that surrounded your entrance into the world. While a complete birth chart gives a comprehensive view of your personality, your birth month can emphasize specific qualities, tendencies, and natural rhythms associated with the zodiac signs influencing that time. This influence can shape your communication style, motivations, habits, and how you experience life.

Whether you lean toward the tranquility of early mornings or the vibrancy of late nights, your birth month reflects the unique energetic patterns that make you who you are. Understanding these connections can enrich your self-awareness and help you embrace your individuality.

The 3 Birth Months That Are Early Birds

People with birthdays in April, May, and September are most likely to become early birds, according to expert astrologers. Read on to discover more.

April

Whether you're a bold Aries or a steady Taurus, April-borns don't wait around for the day to start — they're already moving before most alarms go off! Your passionate, driven nature means you're eager to chase what you want. A head start feels like the best way to satisfy such zest for life. There's an urgency to your ambition that doesn't leave much room for lingering in bed; you'd rather be up and already making progress while everyone else is still waking up.

NEXT: The Word That Describes Your Soul, Based on Your Birth Month

May

If you were born in May, mornings nourish you. Why? Because they tend to be less about rushing and more about enjoying the moments that might otherwise be overlooked. As a Taurus or Gemini, you possess a sensory, present-focused quality. Early mornings feel more like a treat than a chore. Sipping a quiet cup of coffee, experiencing the stillness before notifications start buzzing, and having the mental space to think before the day gets noisy is your idea of luxury. Your mornings can become a pleasant time to recharge. With no urgent plans or responsibilities, taking slow moments to connect with your sensual nature helps ground and nurture you.

RELATE?: The 3 Birth Dates Destined for Luck & Abundance Under 8/8’s Lion’s Gate Portal

August

Born in August? Chances are, you're someone who loves having a sense of direction from the moment you wake up. As a radiant, leading Leo, or a thoughtful, detail-oriented Virgo, early mornings fit naturally into your desire to plan, organize, and make the most of your time. You appreciate having quiet hours to set your intentions, tackle your goals, and create a rhythm for the day ahead. Rather than feeling rushed, you prefer a calm, purposeful start that helps everything fall into place. Even on weekends, you're often awake before everyone else—not because you have to be, but because those quiet hours help you feel focused, accomplished, and ready for whatever comes next.

UP NEXT:

When Elvis Presley kicked off his iconic Las Vegas residency at the International Hotel, the atmosphere was absolute electricity and complete chaos.

As thousands of screaming fans flooded the showroom, room keys, hotel room numbers, and unmentionables routinely rained down onto the stage. Now, almost 50 years later, Elvis’s backup singer Estelle Brown is pulling back the curtain on what really went on behind the spotlights, revealing how the King of Rock and Roll actually reacted.

In an Instagram post, the Westgate posted, "Years after sharing the stage with Elvis, Estelle Brown returned to the International Theater to reflect on the memories, the music, and what it feels like to stand in the very place where history was made." Following, Brown shared her story about what it was like to be a part of his legendary residency.

"I worked with Elvis for eight years," Brown, a member of the Sweet Inspirations, began. "Starting in '69 and stayed with him until his final time."

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"We had so much fun," she continued. "He was the boss, but he would say, 'Don't call me boss. I'm not your boss, I'm your brother.' We all became family."

She added, "He said, 'Don't you ever forget, there's no big I, no little you. We're all one."

As for her position on stage, Brown had a vantage point unlike any other. She said she stood on Presley's left side. From there, she witnessed some of the King of Rock and Roll's wildest stage moments.

"The funniest part about it was when the ladies used to throw their keys and throw their underwear, their bras," she recalled. "It would be so funny."

Brown added, "[Elvis] would just fall out. That was fun to him."

The Sweet Inspirations were Presley's vocal backing singers. The powerhouse group featured Cissy Houston, Estelle Brown, Myrna Smith, and Sylvia Shemwell, whose soaring harmonies defined Elvis’s live sound.

The King of Rock and Roll had a Las Vegas residency from 1969 to 1976. The legendary concert series began on July 31, 1969.

On August 4, 1969, Presley signed a deal with the International Hotel (later renamed the Las Vegas Hilton, now the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino) that would begin a five-year residency. In total, he played 636 sold-out shows.

Biography reported, "Elvis dutifully revisited the hotel–rebranded as the Las Vegas Hilton–for his two-shows-per-night residency into the mid-1970s, enjoying his home away from home in the 5,000-square-foot 'Elvis Suite' on the 30th floor."

Elvis took his final Las Vegas bow on December 12, 1976, closing out a grueling 15-show run over just 11 days. Unbeknownst to the cheering crowd inside the Hilton, the King had taken the stage in Sin City for the last time. Eight months later, on August 16, 1977, he passed away from heart failure.

Related: 57 Years Ago, Elvis Presley Took a Massive Gamble in Vegas That Saved His Career

The Duchess of Sussex turned 45! Meghan Markle celebrated her birthday on August 4, and her fans are wondering whether the royals will honor her special day.

Since Meghan and her husband Prince Harry’s split from the royal family, the couple and their two children (seven-year-old Prince Archie and five-year-old Princess Lillibet) haven’t had much to do with the monarchy. That is, until recently. 

During a recent trip to the UK, the Sussexes now-famously reunited with King Charles, visiting Harry’s father and Queen Camilla at Highgrove House in Gloucestershire for what seemed like a pretty cloak-and-dagger meeting. No cameras. No posed portraits. No mention of what happened during the closed-to-the-public July 10 family gathering.

Even though it seems that the Sussexes have in some ways reconnected with King Charles, it doesn’t look like the situation has significantly changed. While it’s tradition for the royals to release a birthday portrait, given that Meghan and Harry are no longer viewed as active members of the monarchy, it’s extremely unlikely that she would get this treatment. 

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. (Photo by Jonathan Brady-Pool/Getty Images)

But royal commentator Tom Sykes did tell Page Six, “The king is a scrupulously polite man, and I’m quite certain he would wish to send his daughter-in-law his birthday wishes.”

Page Six also noted that royals expert Kinsey Schofield said, “Charles has always had a compassionate streak, and despite everything that’s happened, he has rarely gone out of his way to be overtly unkind towards Meghan.” Schoefield added, “A discreet gesture would be entirely in keeping with his character.”

Based on the experts’ opinions, it doesn’t seem likely that King Charles or any of the other royals (such as Prince Williamor Kate Middleton) will make an overtly public gesture to acknowledge Meghan’s milestone birthday. That said, they could privately wish their family member a happy birthday.

How will Meghan Markle celebrate her 45th birthday?

While there’s no news yet on how Markle will celebrate her 45th, the Duchess of Sussex isn’t one for lavish parties and showy events. That makes it possible she’ll spend the day quietly with the people she loves most—Harry, Archie, and Lillibet.

Last year Meghan quietly posted a pic of herself (on Instagram the day after her Bday) on her 44th with the caption, “Blowing out the candles on a beautiful 24 hours, and thanking my husband, friends, and family for making it special.”

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She continued, “To those of you I don’t know, but who send love every day - thank you so much. Please know I feel it and appreciate it.”

Markle also gave a shout-out to chef Evan Funke for her birthday meal, writing, “And just to get a little foodie on you…this dinner last night at @funke_la with the culinary mastery of @evanfunke and his team is in the top five meals of my life. Extraordinary. Thank you for a standout dining experience.”

One of the most iconic compilation albums of all time is climbing the charts—55 years after it was first released.

The Rolling Stones’ Hot Rocks 1964-1971 has re-entered the Billboard 200 at No. 171 for the week ending Aug. 8, making its 440th week overall on the coveted album chart. Hot Rocks originally reached No. 4 in early 1972, shortly after its release.

The reason for the classic album’s latest surge is likely due to streaming sales amid the July 2026 release of the band’s 27th studio album, Foreign Tongues. Bandmates Mick Jaggerand Keith Richards have also been in a rare interview cycle as they promote the new album, prompting fans to look back fondly on their past music library—and new fans to catch wind of it.

Hot Rocks is a compilation of the Rolling Stones' early music recorded from 1964 to 1971. It became the legendary band’s biggest-selling release, curated as a “cash-in for the 1971 Christmas season” after they parted ways with manager Allen Klein and his Decca/ABKCO Records company to form Rolling Stones Records, according to Ultimate Classic Rock. The band had no say in the track selection for Hot Rocks, as they had previously signed over control of their early catalog to Klein.

Hot Rocks includes 21 Stones classics such as  “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” ‘Time Is on My Side,” ”As Tears Go By,” “Paint It Black,” “Ruby Tuesday,” “Gimme Shelter,” and then up-to-date singles such as “Brown Sugar” and “Wild Horses.”

A 1971 interview by Rolling Stone questioned the absence of songs such as “Lady Jane,”  “Not Fade Away,” “It’s All Over Now,” “She’s a Rainbow,” and “Have You Seen Your Mother, Baby, Standing in the Shadow,” further highlighting the fact that the band had an extraordinarily prolific catalog to curate from.

RELATED: 1966 No. 1 Hit Became a Rock ‘n’ Roll Party Anthem

Jagger once looked back on some of the classic songs that did make the cut. In an interview with Rolling Stone, he revealed that Richards originally didn’t want “Satisfaction,” the band’s first No. 1 hit, to be released as a single.

“People get very blasé about their big hit,” he added. “It was the song that really made the Rolling Stones, changed us from just another band into a huge, monster band. You always need one song. We weren’t American, and America was a big thing, and we always wanted to make it here. It was very impressive the way that song and the popularity of the band became a worldwide thing.”

Fifty-five years after Hot Rocks 1964-1971 remains more than a greatest hits compilation—it is the ultimate introduction to the Rolling Stones for generations of fans.

Related: 1965 No. 1 Classic Rock Hit Ranked Among the ‘Greatest Songs of All Time’ Was Written in Ten Minutes

If you love the effortless, wallet-free convenience of an all-inclusive resort stay, your options historically meant heading international—packing a passport for the Caribbean, Mexico, or Central America. While Florida has long been famous for its sun-soaked road trips and tropical hideaways, true all-inclusive packages have remained virtually non-existent in Key West.

Until now.

The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton, has officially launched Key West’s first and only All-Inclusive Vacation Package. Set along the island’s only private natural sand beach, the oceanfront resort is giving travelers a way to experience the charm of Old Town without constantly whipping out a credit card for every meal, cocktail, and snack along the way.

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Related: The Best Things to Do in Key West, Florida, Before and After a Cruise

What the All-Inclusive Upgrade Covers

Unlike mega-resorts where all-inclusive tiers require separate wristbands or restrictive buffets, The Reach is keeping its upgrade straightforward and easy to add to a standard room booking.

Starting at $150 per adult and $60 per child per day, the daily package add-on covers:

• Daily Breakfast, Lunch, and a Three-Course Dinner: Guests dine directly at the resort’s signature oceanfront restaurant, Four Marlins.
• Unlimited Daily Beverages: Includes craft cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks by the pool or ocean.

When you consider that dining out in Key West for three full meals plus poolside cocktails can easily top $200 a person per day, the price point offers a genuinely practical way to keep vacation spending predictable—all while eating steps from the water.

Related: Hilton's Historic Key West Resort Just Debuted The Cutest Lilly Pulitzer Suites

What Life Looks Like at The Reach View this post on Instagram

Tucked into a quiet corner of Old Town, the resort combines nautical-inspired guest rooms—each featuring private balconies—with immediate access to Key West's culture and nightlife.

The highlight of the property, however, is its shoreline. While much of Key West's coast consists of rocky coral ledges or man-made piers, The Reach sits on the island’s only natural sand beach. Guests can lounge by the oceanfront pool, take sand-sculpting workshops led by the resort’s resident master sand artist, or head out on the water.

Through an on-site partnership with Key West's original watersports company, guests can book dolphin eco-tours, sandbar boat trips, and sunset cruises directly from the resort pier.

Related: Florida Just Got a Brand-New, Truly All-Inclusive Resort—and It's Family-Friendly

Dining at Four Marlins View this post on Instagram

The centerpiece of the food scene on-property is Four Marlins, an oceanfront spot named as a nod to a famous 1935 photo of Ernest Hemingway with his family and sportfishing catch.

Known for its fresh-caught local seafood, tropical craft cocktails, and sweeping Atlantic views, the restaurant serves up local favorites like lobster mac 'n cheese, crispy conch fritters, and a slice of Key Lime pie that regularly goes viral on TikTok. Under the new package, guests can sit down for a full three-course dinner here every night without thinking twice about the bill.

For travelers who want the laid-back, sun-drenched feel of the Florida Keys paired with the worry-free perks of a traditional Caribbean resort, this new package makes Key West easier—and far more convenient—to plan than ever before.

Related: Why You Should Experience the New, Elevated Side of Key West This Summer

Ted Lasso returns for its fourth season on Wednesday, Aug. 5 after a three-year break. I’ve been looking forward to the new season of Apple TV’s Emmy-winning sports comedy ever since it was announced, but I have some reservations about it. In order for Ted Lasso Season 4 to be a creative success, it will need to fix the biggest problem that plagued Season 3: a lack of conflict between characters, which made the show flat and narratively frustrating. 

Season 3 ended in a way that could have been final, but also left open the possibility of another season. AFC Richmond soccer club head coach Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis) went back to America to be with his son, his job of turning the team around through unconventional methods and relentless positivity complete. Off-screen, Sudeikis said he had no plans for another season, much to the disappointment of fans (and Apple TV executives, surely).

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But in that finale, team owner Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddingham) and PR boss Keeley Jones (Juno Temple) were shown starting to come up with a plan to start a Richmond women’s team. It seemed like, if there was going to be another season, it would be about this women’s team, without co-creator/showrunner Sudeikis, at least in front of the camera. Which would have been fine, because Sudeikis seemed to have forgotten what made the show good in the first place. That ended up not being the case, and Sudeikis is fully back (the season is about the women’s team, though).

What Ted Lasso needs to bring back for Season 4

Hopefully, Sudeikis's time away from Ted Lasso helped him come back with fresh eyes that allowed him to see that his feel-good show had gotten too nice, and he needed to bring some conflict back to the story. By “conflict,” I mean friction between characters that creates drama that drives the story forward. Even in comedies, there needs to be drama — disagreements or misunderstandings or tension — otherwise there’s no arc to the story. If there’s no tension, then there’s nothing to resolve.

Season 3 was marked by a distinct lack of conflict. Sudeikis fell too in love with every character to let anything bad happen to them, or let them do anything bad. The worst was Richmond kitman-turned-West Ham head coach-turned Richmond kitman Nate Shelley’s (Nick Mohammed) storyline. After betraying Ted and the whole team in Season 2, Nate was welcomed back with open arms in Season 3 because he felt bad about what he did. The only person who didn’t easily forgive him was Coach Beard (Brendan James), and he came around when Ted asked him to. Nate’s villainous turn was resolved too easily and felt anticlimactic, which describes much of what happened in Season 3, from Keeley and veteran player Roy Kent’s (Brett Goldstein) breakup and makeup to closeted player Colin Hughes’ (Billy Harris) coming out story. 

Related: 9 TV Premieres You Can’t Miss This August (Starting with ‘Ted Lasso’)

Jeremy Swift, Hannah Waddingham, Juno Temple, and Jason Sudeikis in 'Ted Lasso' Season 4

Apple TV

Ted Lasso wasn’t always as touchy-feely as it was in Season 3. Season 1 had a ton of conflict. When American football coach Ted Lasso arrived in London to manage a soccer team despite knowing nothing about soccer, everyone thought he was a buffoon. His players didn’t respect him. Rebecca was intentionally setting him up to fail, and sabotaging his moments of victory.  Roy and star striker Jamie Tartt (Phil Dunster) hated each other. It started from a place of high tension, and slowly and deliberately resolved that tension over the course of the season as Ted won everyone over. Every little change felt hard-won and earned. Just because Ted was nice doesn't mean he wasn't in conflict with other characters. He spent the whole season proving everyone wrong—gently and kindly, of course, but in a way that still produced friction. 

While fans are excited that Ted Lasso is back, there's still some skepticism from some fans about whether it can pull off Season 4. When the new season was announced, critics wrote headlines like “As a 'Ted Lasso' Fan, I'll Say It: We Don't Need a Season 4.” But that skepticism gives Ted Lasso its greatest opportunity.

Season 1 was about Ted winning over people who doubted him, and the show itself overcame its inauspicious origins as an NBC Sports promo to become a cultural phenomenon that lifted people’s spirits during the pandemic and won back-to-back Outstanding Comedy Series Emmys (notably, not for Season 3, though). And now once again, the show finds itself in the position of having to prove itself onscreen and off. In order to do so, it will need to recapture the scrappy energy it had originally and not immediately turn into a conflict-free love-fest. On that front, there are positive signs. In a recent Hollywood Reporter feature, Goldstein said the new season “has some of that Season 1 magic." I hope he’s right.

Related: 'Ted Lasso' Season 4 Is Coming: The Shocking Season 3 Twists You Need to Remember

Are you ready for a new romantasy to add to your list? Steelborn is Taylor J. LaRue’s debut, and it’s a novel perfect for fans of Danielle L. Jensen and Callie Hart. If you’re not too sure, then you’ll want to check out the exclusive excerpt, which is a wonderful introduction to Reya, also known as the Crimson Dagger.

The novel has only just been released today, Aug. 4, 2026, and it comes with beautiful sprayed edges and bookends. It’s set to be one of the big romantasies of the summer, and it’s packed with all your favorite tropes.

Steelborn is an enemies-to-lovers novel, and it’s a true enemies-to-lovers. None of this setting of two people who happen to be rivals in a sport. This is two people from different parts of the world who are forced to work together if they both want to survive.

Reya is known as the Crimson Dagger, the most notorious thief in the whole of Rhiterra. This is a place where magic isn’t allowed, and anyone in hiding is snuffed out as quickly as possible. Reya has learned how to survive by following three strict rules, but one of them is about to be broken.

When her own secret is revealed and a heist goes wrong, she finds herself stuck paying off a debt to a ruthless crimelord. There is only one way out, and that’s to take on a task for a man she loathes.

That man? Caelan Halcyon, an immortal warrior who harnesses magic, and that makes him a valuable target. However, he’s suffering from a curse that inches close to his heart. Any closer, and he’s going to die. He doesn’t want to work with Reya — in fact, he absolutely despises her and everything he thinks she stands for — but she is his only hope for survival.

What if their own survivals were small scale when it comes to the plot, though? What if there’s more at stake? The two realize that with deadly foes and conspiracies, working together could be the only way to safe all of magic-born. And it turns out that maybe Reya does want to save them.

Courtesy of Little, Brown and Company

The excerpt from Steelborn gives us a look at just how Reya has become the Crimson Dagger. She pays attention to everything that is going on around her. However, there may be times when those conversations could end up being what gets her into trouble.

Take a look at your first look at Steelborn:

                  “The usual,” Reya said, sliding three copper coins across the glossy bar top with her good hand. Moments later, an overflowing glass coasted across the wood, sloshing spiced mead over the sides.

                  Reya lifted the glass to her lips, eyed the berry color, and sniffed once before tasting, then spit the liquid back into the glass. “What the hell is this, P?”

                  “Blame his majesty,” Pia said defensively, tucking the coins into her corset. “Our usual supplier imports his spices from Delthia, and ships are struggling to get through right now, so we’ve had to buy elsewhere.”

                  Two weeks ago, the Rhiterran navy had sunk another Delthian ship in the Boreal Sea, claiming that it was being used to smuggle out magic-born refugees. Only this one had a relative of the Delthian royal family aboard—a cousin. It was all over the papers. Rhiterra had been courting war with its closest neighbor for years in its mission to wipe out the magic-born. Now, the city was waiting with bated breath to see whether Delthia would finally respond— and if the magic-born taking refuge there would join them. Reya thought of Stellene and wondered if whatever ship she’d chosen had made the crossing.

                  War was coming. Reya could feel it. But the lush mountains and cloud forests across the Heart Sea belonged to as mighty an empire as the one she currently called home. Delthia would be no easy conquest for Rothmire. With any luck, she would be long gone when war broke out, forging for the Delthian military and cheering them on as they gave Rhiterra a taste of its own medicine.

                  “Whiskey it is,” Reya said, setting the drink down like it had insulted her and sliding two more coppers across the bar. “Domestic.”

                  “Coming right up,” Pia said with a smirk. After servicing the next few patrons, Pia passed her a smaller glass of amber liquid. Reya took a sip, already keyed into the conversations happening around her, separating each voice like threads in a tapestry. Nothing incredibly interesting. There were a few distinct moans coming from booths and shadowed corners. She was pleased to hear several mercenaries talking about her over a game of dice.

                  This was how she worked. By listening. All day she’d walked the streets, the markets, the docks; she’d outmaneuvered the Silver Guardsmen stationed around every street corner, halting people at random to check their bags, papers, and faces. No doubt looking for their missing Sage. Reya had listened to butlers and housekeepers, merchants and traders, locals and foreigners, rich and poor. She’d heard news of shipments, endowments, countryside manors being built and furnished, everyday gossip. Everything was a lead— and even information could sell. Sadly, nothing she’d gathered so far was worth even close to one hundred thousand golds.

                  Lennox was sitting in his regular corner booth across from a man she didn’t recognize, though she certainly wished she did. Reya could only see the lines of his strong, stubbled jaw beneath the low- slung hood of his black cloak, but she knew a fighter when she saw one. Despite the casual posture, he looked like he was ready for war. Elaborate black leather armor and a wicked-looking sword came into view as he shifted—just the sort of steel and man she would love to get her hands on.

                  He eclipsed Lennox in height and breadth, which was probably helping him in whatever negotiation was taking place across the table.

                  She angled her head in their direction from her carefully chosen spot at the bar, close enough that she could overhear their conversation, but far enough to look like she wasn’t trying.

                  “You were quite insistent on a meeting,” Lennox said. “Show me what you’ve brought.”

                  A rustle of fabric, and then he said, “With this, no blade could find your heart.” The man’s husky baritone held a dangerous edge, each word both a challenge and a promise.

                  Lennox was silent for a full minute before replying. “There hasn’t been an Earth Star on the black market for seven years. I’ll need assurances of its authenticity.”

                  Reya’s brows rose. Earth Stars presented like diamonds but were priceless by comparison. Diamonds had no magical properties, while Earth Stars kept their bearers from deadly harm, even poison. Or so the legends claimed. Like fallen stars, they could land anywhere. One could wash up on the coast or turn up in a sapphire mine. In all her years of thieving, she had never seen one.

                  His reply was low and dry. “If you’d like a demonstration, I’d be happy to run you through.”

                  Reya choked on her whiskey. She liked this man. Lennox only feigned amusement. “That won’t be necessary. Though, I’ll need to have an antiquary take a look at it before we can proceed with the sale. I can set up a meeting as early as tomorrow morning.”

                  “I’m here to trade, not to sell.”

                  “Trade for what, exactly?”

                  She lost the next few words over a nearby explosion of laughter. The next thing she heard was Lennox’s familiar chuckle. Her mentor leaned back, head cocked in that cool, calculating way of his. “What, may I ask, makes you think such a thing exists?”

                  The man in black ignored the question. He merely said, “Can you get me what I want or not?”

                  “I’m afraid I don’t trade in Faerie tales.”

Steelborn is now available to purchase in hardback, audio, and eBook formats.

Melissa Auf Der Maur, the iconic touring bassist for The Smashing Pumpkins, shared a new career milestone following her long hiatus.

The Canadian musician, who has not released a solo record in more than 15 years, announced an upcoming album, Bass Womb Room: My '90s 4-Track Demos X Field Recordings.

More than 33 years into her music career, she is revisiting her early creative years with the album, under Envision Records, which showcases seven unreleased demo recordings that she wrote in her living room home studio in the 1990s.

Moreover, the 54-year-old bassist recorded the demos using a Tascam four-track cassette recorder, experimenting with lo-fi recording techniques while layering acoustic guitar before adding vocals.

Melissa Auf der Maur of Hole during Hole Concert '99 in Los Angeles, California.

Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc

As for the lyrics, many of the songs were inspired by the singer-songwriter's diary, according to Blabbermouth.

"I wrote these songs in the context of rising pressure from the major label-driven music industry on myself and my peers to make glossy hit songs to dominate radio airwaves," the former Hole bassist shared. "These songs are the sound of my internal experimentation and a way of keeping the Montreal art girl alive inside. These sounds are the quiet and private side of the girl who joined the big American major label rock band."

In addition to her never-before-heard songs, Bass Womb Room: My '90s 4-Track Demos X Field Recordings also includes eight newly created "interludes" made specifically for her upcoming museum exhibition titled My '90s Rock Photographs opening on Sept. 2.

As for her new album, fans will get to hear Auf Der Maur's new music for the first time in more than 15 years when it is released digitally and on cassette on Sept. 4.

Lollapalooza 2026 Brings Out Melissa Auf Der Maur as Surprise Guest

From her new music to her upcoming exhibit, 2026 is truly a major comeback year for the Canadian singer.

In fact, she was one of the surprise guest performers at Lollapalooza, reuniting with The Smashing Pumpkins' Billy Corgan.

Marking the band's first performance at the festival since 1994, they played their track "The Everlasting Gaze."

To mark the special occasion, she posted a heartfelt message to fans, sharing how happy and "grateful" she was for the experience.

“Floating and Grateful. I miss my bass, I miss you out there, the listeners and receivers … to say nothing of my fellow misfit poet musicians who have crystallized such inner crevasses of my life,” she captioned her Instagram post along with behind-the-scenes photos and videos from the show.

Related: Beloved Rock Band, Disbanded for 19 Years, Announces Return to Stage

Jimmy Fallon had a field day with President Donald Trump’s latest White House controversy, mocking his claim that damage to the Reflecting Pool was caused by vandalism after his own Justice Department said otherwise.

During his latest Tonight Show monologue, the late-night host zeroed in on the DOJ’s assessment that the damage resulted from construction issues rather than a deliberate attack.

Fallon used the moment to roast Trump’s explanation, joking about the president’s repeated claims while highlighting the unusual twist that the pushback came from his own administration under Attorney General Jeanine Pirro.

"Trump claimed someone used a knife to quickly cut the pool liner of the length of three football fields," Fallon said as his audience broke out in laughter. "I can barely use a knife to cut open my Amazon box. I'm like, maybe I'll just pry this thing open, I don't know. Is there rope in the tape? What the heck? At this point, Trump's thinking about draining the water, covering it in green felt and turning it into a reflecting pool table."

Fallon dug in deeper, joking about comparisons between the war in Iran and the search for solutions. "The war in Iran hasn't been going well and Trump's looking for solutions. Listen to what he's been saying about it. First Trump said...  'It's a disaster with no end in sight.' Then Taco Bell said, 'Hey, that's our slogan!'"

He added, "Trump said, 'This cabinet just refuses to come together.' Then Ikea said, "Hey, that's our slogan!'"

Fallon also poked fun at Trump’s other recent controversies, including an alleged AI-generated image featuring historical figures, and his shifting claims about reaching a deal. He joked that Trump had gone from having the “outline” of a deal to the “framework” of a deal, suggesting the president was simply cycling through similar phrases while searching for a solution.

Hypocrisy, the Swedish death metal band behind their signature anthem "Roswell 47," shared devastating news with fans.

Ahead of their highly anticipated Mass Hallucination North American Tour, the band fronted by Peter Tägtgren, along with bassist Mikael Hedlund, guitarist Tomas Elofsson and drummer Henrik Axelsson, announced the cancellation of the 12-date tour.

In an Instagram update, the four-piece band revealed that the unexpected situation was due to visa-related travel complications.

Expressing their disappointment, Hypocrisy apologized for the short notice but assured fans they were working on resolving the issue.

“Due to visa issues beyond our control, we won’t be able to make it to the North American tour. We’re devastated, and truly sorry - we did everything we could. We’re not giving up. We’ll keep working to make this right and get to you as soon as we can! Thank you for your patience, understanding, and support! If you have questions about refunds, please contact your original ticket seller,” the caption reads.

Tomas Elofsson and Peter Tägtgren from the band Hypocrisy at The Inferno Festival at Rockefeller Music Hall on April 19, 2019.

Per Ole Hagen/Redferns

The comment section was filled with disappointed fans; however, many said they understood the circumstances.

“I hope everything works out. You guys got so many people waiting for you so I hope it’s all resolved, i know it was out of your control, but I’m still sad. I need to see Hypocrisy at least once in my life,” a commenter said.

View this post on Instagram

“With the state of the USA right now, this is probably the safest thing for you guys anyway. Come back and hit more of Canada next time!” one wrote.

“So sad to hear this,” another added.

Some even mentioned that this has been occurring with other bands, especially those from Europe.

“This is happening with more and more bands from Europe that are trying to play the US. VISA applications are now more and more strict,” a follower said.

Back in June, the band announced the complete dates for the North American run scheduled throughout August.

Kicking off the tour, Hypocrisy was set to play its first show in Ontario, followed by a stop in Quebec before heading to the U.S. for shows in New York and major cities including Ohio, Illinois, Minnesota and more before wrapping up with a three-show run in California with stops in San Francisco, San Diego and Los Angeles.

On the other hand, the run included a mix of the band's own intimate headlining shows and dates supporting Dimmu Borgir on its Grand Serpent Rising North America 2026 tour.

Below is the complete list of canceled shows:

Aug. 10 – Toronto, ON @ History (supporting Dimmu Borgir)
Aug. 11 – Montreal, QC @ MTELUS (supporting Dimmu Borgir)
Aug. 12 – New York, NY @ Gramercy Theatre (Hypocrisy headlining show)
Aug. 13 – Cleveland, OH @ The Agora Theatre (supporting Dimmu Borgir)
Aug. 15 – Chicago, IL @ Radius (supporting Dimmu Borgir)
Aug. 16 – Omaha, NE @ The Waiting Room (Hypocrisy headlining show with Hulder)
Aug. 17 – Minneapolis, MN @ The Fillmore (supporting Dimmu Borgir)
Aug. 18 – Denver, CO @ The Mission Ballroom (with Hulder)
Aug. 19 – Salt Lake City, UT @ Metro Music Hall (Hypocrisy headlining show with Hulder)
Aug. 20 – San Francisco, CA @ The Regency Ballroom (supporting Dimmu Borgir)
Aug. 22 – San Diego, CA @ Voodoo Room at House of Blues (Hypocrisy headlining show)
Aug. 23 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Novo / Wiltern (supporting Dimmu Borgir)

Related: Beloved Rock Band, Disbanded for 19 Years, Announces Return to Stage

“Substitute” was originally a song recorded by the Righteous Brothers in 1975. Although it wasn't too popular, it became a global hit when a cover version was recorded by a South African band called Clout. The song reached No. 2 on the UK charts and hit No. 1 in Germany, Ireland, New Zealand, and South Africa. In America, it also made it onto the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 67.

When describing the meaning of the band’s name in an interview with New York Lifestyles Magazine, singer Cindy Alter said, “The word ‘clout’ has a few meanings: ‘She’s got clout’ means she’s got power. In South Africa, people would often say, ‘I’ll give you a clout,’ which meant I would slap you.”

Alter also spoke about the struggles that she has faced throughout the years, working as a musician. “I have definitely suffered for my art,” she admitted. “I’ve always just had enough money to go round, never more. So, I guess giving yourself over so completely to your love of something means giving up some things in life. If you measure success in monetary value, has Cindy been successful? No. But if you measure it in other ways, I say she has been remarkably successful. She has sustained a career for over 45 years, still singing, writing, producing, doing what she loves, and following her passion. I guess to me, that is a success.”

Related: 1963 Song, From a Band That Formed in High School, Became a No. 1 Hit 63 Years Ago Today

Clout had a few more hits over the years, including “Save Me,” “Under Fire,” and “You’ve Got All of Me.” When Alter was asked about her favorite song in an ABBA Fan Club interview, she said, “I can’t say favorites because a lot of the stuff were favorites. Of course, I like ‘Save Me’ and ‘Substitute,’ but I was tired of them. I was always singing them. There was a song, I wrote it about the man I was involved with in the Clout years. He was a wonderful, wonderful man. I wrote the song for him called 'Tomorrow,' and it was on the album Six Of The Best. That song meant a lot to me.”

Unfortunately, the band broke up in 1981. However, they had a short reunion in 2018 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of “Substitute.”

Karaoke is honestly an art form in and of itself—and half the battle is choosing the perfect song. Not only do you want to pick something everyone can sing along to, but you also want to pick something that allows you to put on your own personal best show. Choosing in the moment is a lot of pressure, so Ultimate Classic Rockpulled together a list of the best out there to sign up for, and the top song is an indisputable banger: Meat Loaf and Ellen Foley's 1977 hit "Paradise by the Dashboard Light."

The 8-minute epic has everything a karaoke singer could want: drama, power notes, a fascinating story, and the opportunity to collaborate.

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The History of Paradise by the Dashboard Light

When the song appeared on Bat Out of Hell, Meat Loaf was already an unlikely leading man. His big presence was felt in person and in the studio, something Foley once called "larger than life."

“People were ready for this. People were ready to come out of the laid-back Fleetwood Mac ’70s," Foley went on to tell the Associated Press (syndicated on Billboard)of Meat Loaf upon his death in 2022. "And he had an extraordinary voice. I don’t know if he ever took a voice lesson — I think he came out pretty fully formed. First time I ever saw him walk into a rehearsal hall, he was Meat Loaf. He knew what he was.”

The song itself was written by Jim Steinman and produced by acclaimed musical genius Todd Rundgren, and features instrumentals by E Street Band pros Roy Bittan (keyboards and piano) and Max Weinberg (drums). The song tells the story of a 17-year-old boy trying to convince his date to go all the way. Before they do, she makes him promise to love her forever, which he reluctantly agrees to in order to reach his, erm, "paradise." But after the deed is done (which was intimated by a hilarious baseball narration detailing "rounding bases and going 'home'"), the last leg of the song is dedicated to the boy (now man) promising to keep his vows but silently hating her.

Related: 1979 Soft Rock Hit, Originally a Flop by Another Band, Became a Timeless Love Anthem

Foley went on to say that fans tell her all the time that the song has been the soundtrack to many moments in their lives, from weddings to bar mitzvahs and, yes, karaoke.

“You do one thing and it goes with you for your whole life,” she said, “and it makes you always connected, and it makes you feel as young as you did when you sang that song — or went to the moon.”

Of course, to perform it at karaoke, you need at least a touch of Meat Loaf's swagger and endurance: the song itself is 8 minutes long and is truly a theatrical composition. As Foley said herself: “He was a wonder, truly.”

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just issued a recall of Walmart’s bettergoods Pistachio Nut Butter for potential Salmonella contamination.

Manufactured by Gustibus Alimentari Srl of Assoro, Italy, and imported by U.S. company Botticelli Foods, the current recall includes one lot of 6.7-ounce jars sold only in Walmart stores across these 19 states:

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arizona
• Colorado
• Florida
• Georgia
• Idaho
• Kansas
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Nontana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Mexico
• Oregon
• Soth Dakota
• Tennessee
• Washington
• Wyoming

Which Walmart nut butter was recalled?

This safety alert is a recall for Walmart’s private-label store-brand line bettergood’s Pistachio Nut Butter in 6.7-ounce (190g) containers, UPC 194346207961, Lot Code LB028ACP04. The affected products have an expiration date of January 28, 2027. 

Recalled nut butter. Photo: U.S. FDA

U.S. FDA

Why was the nut butter recall issued?

According to the FDA, a routine inspection by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services found the presence of Salmonella bacteria when testing three jars of the bettergoods nut butter at a Walmart retail store. Walmart was alerted to the issue on July 17. 

What is Salmonella?

Salmonella are bacteria that can cause a potentially serious intestinal illness. Symptoms include watery diarrhea (in some cases with mucus or blood) and stomach cramps that are often severe. Headache, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite are also possible symptoms. 

Per the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms can start six hours to six days after infection. The CDC notes that symptoms can persist for four to seven days. Treatment typically includes fluids and anti-diarrheal medications. Some people may need antibiotics. 

While most healthy individuals recover from Salmonella, some people may have persistent diarrhea for several months or develop serious infections of the blood, bones, joints, or brain/spinal cord. 

Individuals who are most at risk for serious disease include children under age five, adults over age 50 with underlying medical conditions, adults over age 65 with or without underlying medical conditions, and anyone who is immunocompromised. 

Most people contract Salmonella after swallowing contaminated food, drinking contaminated water, or touching contaminated animals. Nearly 1.35 million people in the U.S. are infected annually, according to the CDC. 

Has anyone developed Salmonella from the recalled nut butter?

Even though Salmonella was detected, there are currently no reported illnesses from the recalled Walmart product. 

What should shoppers who have the nut butter from Walmart do?

Do not eat the recalled bettergoods Pistachio Nut Butter. If you have this product in your home, return it to the place of purchase for a refund. Walmart shoppers with additional questions can contact Botticelli Foods at 631-543-7000, extension 203, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EDT or email the company at quality@botticellifoods.com. 

If you've been looking for an excuse to book a late-summer or fall getaway without draining your bank account, a major Southern California resort is offering a once-in-a-decade deal that is hard to pass up. Beginning at 8:00 a.m. PST on Thursday, August 6, Harrah’s Resort Southern California is launching an exclusive 48-hour flash sale where guests who book a two-night stay can score their second night for just $10.

The jaw-dropping promotion celebrates the official 10-year "Funnerversary" of Funner, California—a town proclaimed and established in August 2016 by the Rincon Tribal Council. The offer is valid for Monday-through-Thursday stays starting September 2, 2026, and running through December 22, 2026. To book the deal during the two-day window, travelers can head directly to the resort's booking site and enter package code MK10S at checkout.

Related: The Grown-Woman Getaways I’m Telling Every Friend Over 40 to Book

Welcome to Funner, California

Harrah's

Tucked into a scenic mountain valley along the San Luis Rey River in North San Diego County, Funner is located just a short drive from San Diego, Los Angeles, and Orange County. Established a decade ago by the sovereign Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians, the town was created around a simple mission: delivering an affordable, unpretentious, and fun-filled alternative to Las Vegas right in SoCal's backyard.

Over the past decade, the destination has gained fame for its quirky civic leadership—appointing celebrity mayors like Jane Lynch, David Hasselhoff,Rob Riggle, and Martin Short—while steadily building out a full-scale luxury resort experience.

Related: The California Town That Inspired a Classic 1969 Rock Anthem Just Won a Major National Award

What Life Looks Like Inside Harrah’s Resort SoCal

Spread across three hotel towers, Harrah’s Resort Southern California features 1,087 guest rooms and refined suites equipped with mountain or poolside views. At the heart of the property is Dive, a massive triple-pool complex anchored by San Diego's first swim-up bar, plush private cabanas, weekend DJ sets, and a 400-foot lazy river where guests can float under the warm sun.

The resort has also undergone a series of high-profile upgrades. Following a major renovation of its pool amenities, the property recently unveiled a newly redesigned High Limit gaming area alongside its spacious casino floor, which houses over 1,500 slot machines and more than 50 table games. Between games or pool laps, guests can refuel with a glass of "Funner Sessions IPA," a custom craft beer brewed on-site in partnership with Rincon Reservation Road Brewery.

Related: The Winery That Put Napa on the Map 60 Years Ago Just Reopened and the Transformation Is Stunning

World-Class Dining and Live Entertainment

Harrah's Swim up Bar

Foodies will find plenty to explore across the resort's culinary lineup. Harrah's SoCal is home to California's first and largest Gordon Ramsay Hell's Kitchen, where diners can feast on signature beef wellington and sticky toffee pudding. The resort also recently debuted Tierra y Mar, an elevated $10.7 million Baja-inspired Mexican restaurant featuring authentic regional dishes like beef birria, a vibrant 35-spirit tequila and mezcal bar, and lush hacienda-style design.

For evening entertainment, the resort’s 2,200-seat Events Center regularly hosts A-list touring comedians and musicians, with past lineups featuring acts like Bert Kreischer, Theresa Caputo, and the Giggly Squad podcast live show.

Whether you're planning a mid-week pool day, a culinary tour, or a relaxing weekend away, setting a reminder for Thursday's 8:00 AM PST flash sale opening might just land you the best $10 hotel room night in California.

Related: Why the 'Micro-Trip' Is Fall's Most Viral Travel Trend

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Trendy is an understatement when it comes to beaded bags. Once a beloved Y2K aesthetic, beaded bags have regained popularity on social media over the past few years. Driven by the internet’s love for nostalgiacore and all things whimsical, they’ve become a highly coveted accessory yet again. While there are so many options to choose from at various price points, we dug up an affordable one that’s fitting for the upcoming spring and summer seasons — this On 34th Hand-Beaded Shoulder Bag at Macy’s.

Right now, you can score this beaded bag on sale for a whopping 55% off! Normally retailing for $110, it’s now marked down to just $44, which is the lowest price it’s been available at all season. This is a deal you won’t want to miss, considering similar styles by designer brands go for upwards of $300. 

On 34th Hand-Beaded Shoulder Bag, $44 (was $110) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

Choose from three styles,  all ideal for spring and summer, with striped, sardine, and floral picnic designs. If you’re a fan of anything quirky and eccentric, the sardine-style bag is a great choice. Exuding coastal charm, it features three blue sardine outlines, a wavy orange grid, and text that reads “sardines,” all on a silver background. 

Boasting a gingham background with different shades of red, the picnic-style bag has major cottagecore vibes with white asymmetric flowers with wavy petals accenting it. The contrasting flowers add a whimsical and playful touch to the bag. If you prefer something a little more toned down, opt for the striped bag. Adorned with vibrant yellow and white stripes, it has a simple, beachy feel.

All the bags are hand-beaded, giving them artisanal charm. The entire exterior is plastered with beads, including the strap. These bags have a streamlined rectangular silhouette, balancing out the playful beads and making it feel a bit polished and structured. The fabric is made of polyester, and the interior is lined with polyurethane material to protect the exterior. 

On 34th Hand-Beaded Shoulder Bag, $44 (was $110) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

Measuring 8.5 inches wide, 5 inches tall, and 2.5 inches deep, this bag offers enough room for all your essentials. You’ll be able to fit your phone, keys, and a small wallet inside and could even have extra room to spare. The interior is fixed with a slip pocket where you can store small items to prevent them from getting jumbled with the rest of your items. To keep everything secure, it has a flap closure and is held securely by a magnetic snap.

Related: Macy's Garden-Inspired Tablecloth Will Transport You to the English Countryside, and It's on Sale for $21

The strap has a 9-inch drop, designed to sit on your shoulder comfortably, draping elegantly down. It should sit low enough on your shoulder where it won’t get in the way of your arm movements, allowing you to go about your day hands-free. You can effortlessly throw it on with both casual and dressy outfits to give your look some flair. It’ll instantly elevate your style to make you feel glamorous. 

The best kinds of accessories are those that seamlessly blend style and functionality, like the On 34th Hand-Beaded Shoulder Bag. If you’ve been itching to get your hands on a trendy beaded bag, don’t hesitate to head to Macy’s and snag this one while it’s on sale for just $44! Be sure to hurry, because with a deal this sweet, your preferred style may not be in stock for much longer. 

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.