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NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Sunday, May 17, 2026

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 11:25pm

You'll ace today's NYT Connections puzzle if you know the difference between elevenses and high tea. There's nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times WordleStrandsMini Crossword and Connections Sports Edition word games in one fell swoop. But sometimes that can be easier said than done. If you need help with today's Connections puzzle, keep reading.

Spoilers ahead! We've warned you. We mean it. Read no furthere dsuntil you really want some clues or you've completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today's NYT 'Connections’ hints and answers for #1071 onSunday, May 17, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Sunday, May 17, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Sunday's puzzle, you're not alone, and these hints should definitely help you out. Plus, I'll reveal the answers further down.

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Sunday, May 17
  1. A connector.
  2. Pulled the wool over my eyes.
  3. Typically served with finger sandwiches and light bites.
  4. Usually associated with age.

Related: 300 Trivia Questions and Answers to Jumpstart Your Fun Game Night

Ready for the answers? Scroll below this image (the image that represents your very appreciated patience!).

iStock

Today's Connections Game Answers for Sunday, May 17:

1. CONDUIT: DUCT, LINE, MAIN, PIPE
2. SWINDLE: FLEECE, HOSE, SQUEEZE, STIFF
3. TEA MAKING VERBS: BOIL, POUR, STEEP, STRAIN
4. "SCHOOL MODIFIERS": GRADE, GRAMMAR, HIGH, PRIMARY

How'd you do?

Up Next:

15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
Hints, Clues and Answers to the NYT's 'Mini Crossword' Puzzle

Did You Miss a Few Days? Let's Catch You Up With Recent Connections Answers

Related: Cheez-It Teams Up With Coors Light to Drop Unexpected Collab That Has Fans Divided: 'Ain't No Way'

A Song Glen Campbell Borrowed Became the Soundtrack of His Career

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 11:17pm

On May 17, 1967, Glen Campbell entered Capitol Studios to record a song that would not only become one of the biggest hits of his career, but eventually the musical calling card for an entire era of television: "Gentle on My Mind."

Written by John Hartford and arranged by Leon Russell, the song already stood apart from the polished country hits dominating radio at the time. Its wandering lyrics and poetic storytelling gave it a distinctive, almost conversational feel. But it was Campbell’s smooth, reassuring vocal delivery that transformed the track into something unforgettable.

At the time, Campbell was still emerging as a solo artist after years of working behind the scenes as one of Los Angeles’ most sought-after session musicians. "Gentle on My Mind" became the breakthrough that elevated him from respected guitarist to mainstream star.

Though it wasn’t an immediate chart-topper, the song quickly became a cultural phenomenon. In 1968, it earned four Grammy Awards across country and pop categories, cementing Campbell’s crossover appeal and introducing his music to a national audience far beyond country radio.

The song’s warm melody and reflective tone connected deeply with listeners, and over time it became synonymous with Campbell himself. That connection grew even stronger when "Gentle on My Mind" was later chosen as the theme song for The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour, Campbell’s hit CBS variety series that aired from 1969 to 1972.

By then, the song had evolved into more than just a hit record. It had become the soundtrack to Campbell’s rise as one of country music's biggest stars.

Each week, millions of viewers heard the familiar opening lines as Campbell welcomed audiences into a show featuring some of the era’s biggest names in music, television and comedy.

Decades later, "Gentle on My Mind" is still one of the defining recordings of the late 1960s and a lasting symbol of Campbell's crossover success in both music and television.

RELATED: 60 Years Ago, This Emotional Jim Reeves Ballad Became a Posthumous Smash Hit

Today’s Wordle Hint, Answers for #1793 on Sunday, May 17, 2026

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 11:04pm

Your neighborhood HOA would love today's NYT Wordle puzzle. But the day just isn't complete until I've solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including ConnectionsConnections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword. And, of course, I can’t forget about Wordle, too! If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1793 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

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How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

There is one vowel and one sometimes vowel in today's five-letter word.

What kind of letter does today's Wordle start with?

Today's Wordle begins with a consonant.

Are there any double letters?

There are no double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle?

A hint for today's Wordle is: rules and regulations.

OK, that's it for hints—I don't want to totally give it away before revealing the answer!

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

We'll have the answer below this friendly reminder of how to play the game.

SPOILERS BELOW—do not scroll any further if you don't want the answer revealed.

The New York Times

Today's Wordle Answer for #1793 on Sunday, May 17, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Sunday, May 17, 2026, is BYLAW.

-If you missed it, catch up with the answer to yesterday’s Wordle.

Related: Photos of 8 Discontinued Childhood Cereals That Will Instantly Unlock a Core Memory

Nearly 20 Years Later, Fans Still Hate This 'O.C.' Twist

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 11:00pm

Few TV deaths from the 2000s still spark as much emotion as Marissa Cooper’s final scene on The O.C.

Nearly two decades after Mischa Barton exited the hit teen drama in the shocking Season 3 finale, fans are still debating whether killing off Marissa was one of television’s biggest mistakes.

The emotional scene where Marissa dies in Ryan Atwood's (Ben McKenzie) arms after a fiery car crash instantly became one of the defining moments of early-2000s television. But behind the scenes, Barton, 40, had already decided it was time to leave the series.

In later interviews, Barton explained that the pressures of fame, an exhausting shooting schedule and behind-the-scenes struggles contributed to her decision to walk away from the show.

"I just felt like I was in a machine and I couldn't really get off," she said in an interview ahead of one of her 206 Dancing With the Stars performances.

Producers ultimately decided to kill Marissa off rather than simply write her out of Newport Beach. Years later, creators Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage admitted they regretted the decision and wished they had found another solution.

Fans, meanwhile, still haven’t fully recovered.

On Reddit, however, some fans can't get over the character death.

"Watching as a teen, I hated that they killed Marissa off," said a Reddit user. "Rewatching as an adult, I wish they would’ve had her start making better choices like they did for Ryan when he realized he needed to stop dating girls that are trouble. Instead Marissa continued to make bad choices..."

"Her death devastated me the first time I saw the show back when it first aired on TV," another fan of the show agreed in the thread.

"I was traumatized, and so mad at the network. I’m doing a rewatch now and it took me 3 days to work up the courage to watch that last episode of Season 3. I didn’t want to feel all that pain all over again. I finally watched it tonight and it was heartbreaking but not as bad as the first time."

Others who are just discovering The O.C. are "genuinely shocked" about Marissa's passing.

"I loved Marisa and I couldn’t believe they would kill off a main character," said another Redditor.

"I was ABSOLUTELY shocked just now," another chimed in. "I didn’t think she was actually going to die."

Even cast members still get emotional revisiting the scene. During a reunion podcast appearance, both Barton and Rachel Bilson teared up while rewatching Marissa’s final moments onscreen.

And while Season 4 developed a loyal fan base of its own, many viewers continue to associate The O.C. most strongly with Ryan and Marissa’s tragic love story.

Nearly 20 years later, fans may still disagree on whether Marissa Cooper should have died—but one thing is clear: they never forgot it.

Stream The O.C. on Hulu and HBO Max.

RELATED: A Country Pioneer Died 51 Years Ago After a Devastating Stroke— Waylon Jennings Made Sure He Was Never Forgotten

1971 Hit, Originally a Classic Country Anthem, Was a No. 1 Hit 55 Years Ago Today

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 10:50pm

In 1971, Ray Price delivered yet another hit song that is now considered a classic country anthem.

After 55 years, “I Won’t Mention It Again” not only became a "Nashville Sound" for its chart-stopping success but a staple of American country music.

Written by notable songwriters Carolyn Jean Yates and Cam Mullins, with the latter collaborating with Price for his multiple hit tracks, the duo created a masterpiece that sparked a career-defining moment for the musician.

After the 1970 hit "For the Good Times,” Price continued his streak of commercial success after releasing “I Won’t Mention It Again” as the lead single from his 17th studio album of the same name.

Ray Price photographed circa 1970.

Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images

At that time, the track climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, securing the top spot for three consecutive weeks, making it his sixth chart-topping single in the same category.

In addition, Price’s song became a hit across mainstream charts, even peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard Easy Listening, also known as the Adult Contemporary chart and No. 42 on the overall Billboard Hot 100.

“I Won’t Mention It Again” helped propel the whole album’s success, driving more listeners to purchase the album and making it No. 1 on the Country Albums chart for 15 weeks.

While the single brought Price musical success, the song was a major shift from his signature sound.

Marking a stylistic change from his previous upbeat honky-tonk style, “I Won’t Mention It Again” exudes a more orchestral and emotional sound, similar to "For the Good Times.”

Before his death in 2013 at the age of 87, he revealed that performing love songs, especially emotional ballads, was the genre he enjoyed the most.

“I enjoy just a good love song, not a drinking song a love song!” the singer shared as cited by Country Stars Central, adding , “I don’t know what the word would be, forte or what but that’s what I specialize in because I’m a ballad singer. I love great love songs because I believe as long as two people are in love in this world, a great love song comes in handy!”

Beyond the recognition, Price’s 1971 hit track has seen a slew of striking revivals from fellow country icons, including Reba McEntire, who performed a modern country-pop version for her 20th studio album Starting Over.

Grammy-winning singer and also known as "Rose Garden" superstar Lynn Anderson also did a string-heavy rendition for her 1972 studio album Cry.

Related: 1956 Hit Ranked Among ‘Best Country Songs of All Time’ Became a Timeless Classic

1963 Classic Hit Film Is Being Reimagined With a Modern Twist

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 10:18pm

As fans anticipate the release of Colman Domingo’s latest movie, Disclosure Day, a new film is on the table for the actor.

Domingo will star alongside Nicholas Hoult, Noah Jupe, and Emma Corrin in a reimagining of Joseph Losey’s 1963 classic, The Servant. According to Deadline, principal photography will begin in January, with Francis Lee directing for the first time in six years.

Deadline reported that this reimagining of The Servant is a psychological thriller set in 1950s New York, “about Tony (Hoult), an entitled British man who moves into a beautiful apartment on Central Park and becomes embroiled in a wicked power play with his manservant, Barrett (Domingo).”

The original film, which starred Dirk Bogarde and James Fox, incorporates themes of fear, sex, and shame, The Guardian said. According to Deadline, the new film “is understood to crackle with its own sexual cat-and-mouse games and modern dynamics.”

“I am delighted to be working with my incredible cast on The Servant, an exciting, dangerous, and fun retelling with a contemporary viewpoint of the classic film,” Lee said. “Although this thrilling story is set in 1950s New York, its themes feel more timely than ever, and I can’t wait for audiences to discover this film through fresh eyes.”

Graham Broadbent and Pete Czernin are set to produce the film for Blueprint, and they said they’re lucky to work with Lee.

“We have long been great admirers of his work and it is no surprise that his razor-sharp script has attracted such an incredible cast,” they said.

Domingo, who will star in The Servant as Barrett, is the cover star for this month’s issue of The Hollywood Reporter. The magazine called him “a force who seemingly came out of nowhere.”

“Maybe it’s because I’m sort of leaning into the third act of my career,” Domingo said to The Hollywood Reporter. “For a long time, as artists, we’re in our ‘planting seeds’ phase. I feel like I’m in an incredible harvest period.”

Check out fans’ reactions to The Servant announcement here.

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Amazon’s ‘Whimsical’ $24 Turtle Statue Solar Light ‘Creates a Magical Ambiance’ In Any Outdoor Space

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 10:00pm

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Now that the weather is finally tolerable again, it's highly likely that you'll find yourself itching to spend more time outdoors. If your back or front yard needs a little refresh after the gloomy winter months, the warm glow of solar lights can instantly make your space feel cozy and inviting again. This Nacome Turtle Statue Solar Light at Amazon is a great option if you’re looking to set the perfect ambiance and add a touch of whimsy to your home! 

There’s no better time than right now to snag this turtle solar light because it’s currently on sale for less than $30! Normally retailing for $40, it’s now marked down to just $24 when you clip the on-page coupon. That's a 40% discount! It’s also available in four other statue designs, including a bunny, gnome, angel, and frog, with prices varying between $27 to $35. That's still an amazing deal considering that this accent piece has racked up over 13,000 five-star ratings! 

Nacome Turtle Statue Solar Light, $24 (was $40) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

This gorgeous piece of decor has the power to transform any drab or gloomy space into something cheerful and magical. Featuring a smiling turtle statue, this solar light piece will perk up your outdoor or even indoor space with whimsy. One side of the turtle is adorned with vibrant succulents in blue, green, and orange tones, while the other side features a realistic shell with etched decorative lines. 

Seven of the succulents feature an LED lightbulb, casting a gorgeous warm glow. A sustainable choice, this turtle statue light doesn’t require any electricity or batteries, but rather relies on solar power. The non-succulent side of the turtle is equipped with a solar panel, strategically placed so it won’t draw away any attention from the succulents. It only requires six to eight hours of sunlight to charge and glows for up to 10 hours once it gets dark. For convenience, the lights automatically turn on at dusk. Reviewers noted that it still charges and radiates light even on cloudy and rainy days. 

One reviewer said that the LED lights “create a magical ambiance” in their outdoor space. They also added that the combination of the succulents and lights “adds a whimsical and enchanting element” to their garden decor. 

"The details are beautiful, and the little succulent on its back makes it look even more special," another shopper raved.

Handcrafted and hand-painted, this turtle statue is made from high-quality resin with a stone-like texture. Several reviewers said that it looks like it's made from real stone! Shoppers also raved about how vibrant the hues of the succulents are and mentioned that the colors don’t fade. The resin material is weatherproof with a UV-resistant coating, designed to withstand rain, snow, humidity, and extreme temperatures, so you can keep it out year-round. 

Related: Amazon’s Rustic $70 Wooden Garden Pathway Easily Unrolls for an 'Elegant' Backyard Upgrade

You can place this adorable turtle statue anywhere in your back or front yard. Customers said that they’ve put it on their porch, patio, deck, and in their garden. A few mentioned that they’ve even used it as a centerpiece on their outdoor table. You can even keep it indoors and place it by your window with the solar panel facing the light.

Another reviewer commented: “This turtle makes a charming impression wherever you place it — whether on the balcony, patio, lawn, or even a wide windowsill.”

Ready to welcome some much-needed spring energy to your outdoor space? Head to Amazon and snag the Nacome Turtle Statue Solar Light while it’s still on sale for just $24!

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.

Costco Just Dropped a Massive Backyard Pool That Puts Inflatable Sets to Shame

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 9:43pm

Every single day Costco finds another way to surprise shoppers with products you’d never expect to see in store. And while not every unexpected gem is necessarily a hit, there’s almost always something that’ll leave you wishing you had just a little more room for it at home.

Well, this week Costco is leaning into the novelty of its oversized ways with a massive backyard upgrade perfect for the whole family. Currently available in stores for nearly $200 less than its online price, the Bestway Power Steel 20-Foot Oval Pool Set is your ticket to exciting weekends spent having a blast at home with your closest friends and family.

Retailing for $569.99, this pool is a solid investment in summer fun, perfect for anyone with enough backyard space to make it a reality.

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Bestway Power Steel 20-foot Oval Pool Set, $569.99 at Costco View this post on Instagram

Truly one of those rare occasions where the in-store price beats the online listing by a wide margin, the Bestway Power Steel 20-foot Oval Pool Set makes it easy to turn your backyard into an exciting summer hangout spot. The set includes a chemical dispenser, solar water heater, 1,600-gallon sand filter pump, ladder and pool cover—everything needed for a fully functional above-ground pool setup.

Measuring 20 feet long, 12 feet wide and 4 feet deep, it’s perfectly sized for everything from casual lounging to full-on backyard chaos, so long as nobody’s diving head first into the water. Even better, the pool sets up in about 60 minutes with the help of one or two people, requiring just three steps: lay the liner flat, assemble the frame and fill it with water. Best of all, no tools needed.

Related: Costco Is Selling a Viral Wellness Essential That Athletes Swear By

“Do you think my husband will notice if I put this in our backyard,” one fan asked the chat in response to @costcohotfinds’ video. 

“No chance this fits in my minivan,” another fan replied.

It wasn’t just newcomers to the Bestway pool singing its praises, either. One fan said, “this will be our 5th summer with ours,” noting that despite living in Northern Michigan and never taking it down in the winter, “it’s held up perfectly!”

“I have this pool,” someone else added. “It’s so worth it.”

All in, this is not a bad investment. In fact, it's one that’s totally worth going in on with the rest of the family to split the bill and make your summer dreams come true. Snag this deal in store while it’s still hot, and while you’re there, take a peek at Costco’s Ninja FlexFlame 5-in-1 Cooking System bundle, the perfect sidekick to your upcoming pool party fun.

Related: Costco Is Selling a 'Stunning' Acacia Butcher Block Counter at a Price That Can't Be Beat

1981 ‘Tense’ Collaboration Named One of the Greatest Classic Rock Team-Ups of All Time

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 9:34pm

In the summer of 1981, a chance encounter among music legends led to one of the greatest classic rock collaborations of all time. Holed up at Mountain Studios in Switzerland, Queen was working on their album Hot Space, when they crossed paths with David Bowie, who was recording music for the film Cat People

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What followed was pure kismet: The artists decided to collaborate, resulting in the dance-rock classic “Under Pressure,” which has since been ranked by American Songwriter among the greatest golden-era rock duets “that still give us chills.” 

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"As the years go on, 'Under Pressure' goes in and out of vogue constantly," AS writes. "That’s a sign of a genuinely well-written and well-produced song. And Queen and David Bowie fit together like several big-haired peas in a pod. Personally, David Bowie’s monologue at the end of the song still gives me chills (and hope for a better world) each and every time I hear it. 'Under Pressure' really is a dance-rock song for the ages."

Still, the recording sessions were far from easy. According to Queen guitarist Brian May, the studio became a creative battleground, with competing ideas and strong personalities, perhaps mirroring the track’s title.

Speaking to Mojo magazine, per AS, May recalled the subtle tension between Freddie Mercury and David Bowie, saying that the two locked “horns” in a bit of a musical-genius power play. “It was sort of wonderful and terrible,” he said, noting moments of rivalry even in small details like studio timing and decision making.

May also reflected on the creative intensity in a 2008Mojo interview, saying that both Mercury and Bowie were powerful artistic presences. “It was hard, because you had four very precocious boys and David, who was precocious enough for all of us.” He added that Bowie had influence on the lyrical direction of the track, while internal disagreements over structure and mixing added to the friction.

Despite the tension, though, the single was an instant hit, soaring all the way to No. 1 in the U.K. and peaking at No. 29 on the Billboard Hot 100. Called a “monster rock track,” the hit is widely considered one of the band’s and dance-rock artist’s most popular songs. Not to mention one of the best contributions to '80s rock, paving the way for other bands to team up and follow suit.

The hit remains a staple in pop culture today, with films, shows, karaoke bars, and even weddings all offering ways for newer generations to encounter the song. It also re-entered the chat in the '90s after being sampled without credit in Vanilla Ice's “Ice Ice Baby,” leading to a high-profile legal dispute and renewed attention for the original track, per AS

Pressure makes diamonds as they say, and this one never stops shining.

Related: 1991 Rock Anthem Became the Longest-Running Near-Hit in Music History

'Grey's Anatomy' Star Opens Up About Eric Dane's Death: 'I Was Just Sobbing'

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 9:31pm

Grey's Anatomy actress Chyler Leigh, who played Meredith Grey's younger sister, Lexie Grey, recently opened up about Eric Dane's death this past February and what her experience of grief looked like.

Dane passed away due to complications related to his amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis. Dane had publicly shared news of his diagnosis just 10 months before his death.

When Dane passed, social media was flooded with touching tributes to the actor, including from many of Dane's co-stars. Among those names was fellow Grey's Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey, who played Derek Shepherd, as well as Jensen Ackles, who starred alongside Dane in the Prime Video show Countdown.

Leigh also released a statement about Dane's passing back in February, which said, among other things, "Eric had a heart of gold. His humor and, especially, his laugh was infectious. He was a deeply intelligent man who could carry a philosophical conversation for hours even while we were on set."

Now, Leigh has opened up to share a bit more about how the news of Dane's passing affected her and what her experience of grief has looked like over the last few months.

Per Us Weekly, Leigh shared, "It had been a while since I had connected with him, and then I got the news. Then, it just hit me. I was like, 'Oh my God, I can’t believe this happened.'"

Leigh explained that it wasn't really until a few days later, when she was flying from Los Angeles to her home in Nashville, that the full weight of this loss truly hit her.

"All of a sudden, it just hit. I had to keep getting up and going to use the lavatory because I was just sobbing. I didn’t know it was going to hit me that hard and especially that fast. It was definitely a grief, and now when I see the reels [of his past work] it’s not like I’m over it, but I’m able to see past the absolute devastation of it and be able to appreciate even more so those incredible moments that we had together," she said.

Leigh's Grey's Anatomy character Lexie and Dane's character Mark Sloan had an on-again-off-again relationship throughout several seasons of Grey's, but they remained a fan-favorite couple on the show until their mutual exits, which saw both characters die as a result of a harrowing plane crash. Even now, years after those departures, fans express love for this couple.

1977 Hit, Originally an Unconditional Rock Classic, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time’

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 9:16pm

In 1977, Elvis Costello released a song that sounded gentler than much of the punk movement surrounding it, but carried just as much emotional intensity beneath the surface.

"Alison" has since been ranked by Rolling Stone as one of the greatest songs of all time, cementing its reputation as one of Costello's defining works and one of the most enduring rock ballads of the late 1970s.

Despite often being interpreted as a straightforward love song, "Alison" is far more emotionally complicated.

Originally appearing on Costello's debut album, My Aim Is True, the song helped introduce listeners to his sharp songwriting style, blending tenderness, bitterness and emotional ambiguity into a deceptively simple melody.

"I've always told people that I wrote the song 'Alison' after seeing a beautiful checkout girl at the local supermarket," Costello wrote in his book, Unfaithful Music & Disappearing Ink.

"She had a face for which a ship might have once been named. Scoundrels might once have fought mist-swathed duels to defend her honor. Now she was punching in the prices on cans of beans at a cash register and looking as if all the hopes and dreams of her youth were draining away. All that were left would soon be squandered to a ruffian who told her convenient lies and trapped her still further."

That mixture of compassion, disappointment and restrained anger became central to the song's emotional power.

Musically, "Alison" also stood apart from many rock songs of its era. While punk music in the late 1970s was often loud, aggressive and chaotic, Costello leaned into a softer, more soulful sound that drew from classic pop and rhythm and blues influences. The contrast helped the song resonate with a wide audience beyond the punk scene and established Costello as one of the most sophisticated songwriters of his generation.

Over the years, "Alison" has remained one of his most beloved tracks, frequently appearing in films, television and live performances. Artists across multiple genres have also covered the song, further reinforcing its reputation as a modern classic.

Part of what continues to make "Alison" so compelling is its emotional ambiguity. The song never fully explains its narrator's intentions or feelings, allowing listeners to interpret it in different ways decades later.

Its inclusion among Rolling Stone's greatest songs of all time reflects just how influential and timeless the track has become.

Nearly 50 years after its release, "Alison" still stands as proof that some of the most powerful rock songs are the quietest ones.

Related: 1973 Rock Classic, Originally a Breakthrough Radio Anthem, Became a No. 1 Hit Twice

World Market's Colorful Mosaic-Top Bistro Tables Are Perfect for Small Outdoor Spaces

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 9:10pm

If you have a smaller outdoor space, like an apartment balcony or a tiny patio, finding smaller furniture is key to keeping things functional. Furniture that is too big will clutter your space, while pieces that work with the square footage you do have make the space work for you. If you're looking for a dining table that is great for small outdoor spaces, this option at World Market fits the bill. It's vibrant, high-quality and the perfect size.

World Market's Cadiz Round Outdoor Bistro Table comes in four colorful designs, including tropical birds, a botanical print, a multi-toned gray, or a black-and-white pattern, giving you a few options to choose from. Enough room to seat up to two people, these mosaic bistro tables are perfect for small spaces. This table makes it possible to enjoy a cup of morning coffee, a glass of wine in the evening or even eat meals outdoors whenever the mood strikes.

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Cadiz Round Outdoor Bistro Table, Tropical Birds, $179.99 at World Market

World Market

The table legs are made of iron with a powder-coated finish, and the tabletop features hand-painted glass tiles. Each of these beautiful mosaic tabletops is meticulously handcrafted, adding a special artisan touch to the table.

When it comes to dimensions, each bistro table measures 28 inches in diameter, 30.5 inches in height, and weighs 50.6 pounds.

Related: World Market's 2-Piece Nesting Coffee Table Set Is the Definition of Elegant Scandinavian Design

Customers love this mosaic bistro table, giving it an average rating of 4.4 stars on World Market's website. Many reviews note how it's the perfect size for small spaces.

"Love the sturdiness of this outdoor piece! The color scheme is fun and the size is functional. A good fit for a small space or to complement a large outdoor living schematic," said a happy World Market shopper in a five-star review on WorldMarket.com.

"Perfect for our small space!" raved another fan in a five-star review on WorldMarket.com. "We realize this was meant to be an outside table but needed something small in the kitchen and the color was perfect. Fits well and looks great!"

You can pick up these bistro tables in select World Market stores or order one online on WorldMarket.com. Each one retails for $179.99.

Related: World Market's Vintage-Inspired 3-Door Storage Cabinet Is Full of Boho Charm

NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Today, Sunday, May 17, 2026

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 9:00pm

You might enjoy today's Mini Crossword if you're up on your trivia. And if you're anything like me, the day is not complete until I finish all of the free word games from the New York Times. Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports EditionWordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can't forget about the NYT's The Mini Crossword, too!

Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.

So, if you're working on today's Mini on for Today's Mini Crossword on Sunday, May 17, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Sunday, May 17, 2026

Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: Wedding entertainers, for short — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

4 Across: Like admission to the Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C. —HINT: Starts with the letter "F"

5 Across: Not try particularly hard at one's job — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

6 Across: "Didn't mean to do that!" — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

7 Across: Praiseful poem — HINT: Starts with the letter "O"

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Hang loosely — HINT: Starts with the letter "D"

2 Down: Rory's love interest on "Gilmore Girls" — HINT: Starts with the letter "J"

3 Down: "I'm all ___" — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

4 Down: Caterer's responsibility — HINT: Starts with the letter "F"

5 Down: Mourning dove's call — HINT: Ends with the letter "O"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Sunday, May 17, 2026

Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Answers

1 Across: Wedding entertainers, for short — DJS

4 Across: Like admission to the Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C. —FREE

5 Across: Not try particularly hard at one's job — COAST

6 Across: "Didn't mean to do that!" — OOPS

7 Across: Praiseful poem — ODE

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Hang loosely — DRAPE

2 Down: Rory's love interest on "Gilmore Girls" — JESS

3 Down: "I'm all ___" — SET

4 Down: Caterer's responsibility — FOOD

5 Down: Mourning dove's call — COO

Related: Cheez-It Teams Up With Coors Light to Drop Unexpected Collab That Has Fans Divided: 'Ain't No Way'

1973 Rock Classic, Originally a Breakthrough Radio Anthem, Became a No. 1 Hit Twice

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 8:19pm

In 1973, Steve Miller Band released a smooth, bluesy rock song that quickly became a radio staple.

But what made "The Joker" especially remarkable is that it eventually became a No. 1 hit twice: once in the 1970s and again nearly two decades later.

Written by frontman Steve Miller, the song blended relaxed California rock vibes with playful lyrics and memorable nicknames, including the now-famous line: "Some people call me the space cowboy."

At the time of its original release, "The Joker" represented a major breakthrough for the band. Its laid-back groove and instantly recognizable chorus made it a perfect fit for FM radio during the early 1970s, helping propel the track to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1974.

"I worked on the music a long time, and knew exactly how I wanted it to go and finally got the lyrics together in the studio, and it all finally fell together," Miller told Guitar Player. "But it didn't sound like anything on the radio."

But, audiences didn't seem to mind.

"I was playing it in my show-opening solo acoustic set, but people were just going nuts right away, so we added it to the band set, and it just took off. 'The Joker' was on the air two times an hour, 24 hours a day, for about a year and a half."

The song quickly became one of the defining radio anthems of the era, helping establish Steve Miller Band as one of classic rock’s most commercially successful acts.

And, the story didn’t end there.

In the early 1990s, "The Joker" experienced an unexpected revival after being featured prominently in a popular Levi's commercial in the United Kingdom. The renewed exposure introduced the song to an entirely new generation of listeners.

As a result, the track climbed the charts again and remarkably reached No. 1 in the U.K. nearly 20 years after its original release.

That rare second chart-topping moment cemented "The Joker" as more than just a nostalgic hit, it became a cross-generational classic with extraordinary staying power.

Part of the song's enduring popularity comes from its effortlessly cool atmosphere. Unlike many rock songs built around aggression or drama, "The Joker" succeeds through charm, humor and an easygoing confidence that continues to resonate decades later.

"Vietnam [the war] wasn’t over; there was just always shit going on with [then-President] Nixon; there’d been riots all over the country," Miller told the New York Post. "The country was in a mess. And I just wanted to, you know, not sing about all the negative shit but try and do something positive."

Today, the song remains one of the most recognizable tracks in classic rock history, regularly appearing in films, commercials and radio playlists.

Its unusual journey, from breakthrough 1970s anthem to international comeback hit years later, helped make "The Joker" one of rock music’s most enduring success stories.

Related: 1975 Timeless Classic, Written in 20 Minutes, Became a Soft Rock Anthem

Best-Selling Thriller Novel, Soon to Be a Netflix Movie, Ranked Among Books With 'Best Twists'

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 8:19pm

Thriller readers will be familiar with British author Lisa Jewell and her standout collection of mystery and crime novels that leave literature lovers on the edge of their seats. Among them is None of This Is True, a popular psychological thriller novel that features plenty of shocking twists and turns.

The best-seller has been ranked among the books with the "best twists" on Goodreads, based on votes by keen readers who want to share their favorite jaw-dropping books. Topping the list is Agatha Christie's classic crime novel, And Then There Were None.

Published in 2023 by Simon & Schuster, None of This Is True centers around beloved podcaster Alix Summer, who unexpectedly meets an unassuming woman called Josie Fair while she's out celebrating her 45th birthday at her local pub. It turns out that Josie also turned 45 that day, and the pair are birthday twins.

Following their initial accidental meeting at the pub, Alix jumps into Josie again a few days later, and Josie tells Alix that she thinks she would be an interesting guest on her podcast. Although she finds her strange and unsettling, Alix agrees, and she begins to learn all about Josie's life, which harbors some dark secrets. But as quickly as she first appears, Josie vanishes, and Alix is left to solve the mystery before it affects the lives of her family and friends.

A movie adaptation of Lisa Jewell's 'None of This Is True' is heading to Netflix.

Photo by David Levenson on Getty Images

"[None of This Is True] was inspired in part by the idea of birthday twins, but also by a man I saw through a window in Kilburn one afternoon when I was walking the dog," Jewell told West London Living in an interview. "I felt as if there was something dark going on in the apartment behind him, and wanted to write about him to find out what it was. But the main theme was the idea of letting the wrong person into your life, those split-second decisions that can change the course of your life forever."

Related:Best-Selling Author Reveals One Thing the ‘Off Campus’ Series Did Better Than the Books

In June 2024, Deadline reported that Netflix had won the rights for a film adaptation of None of This Is True. Eleanor Burgess (Perry Mason) had signed on to write the script, while actress and producer Molly Sims (Kinda Pregnant) will be producing the movie. Jewell will serve as an executive producer.

There is currently no cast tied to the production, and a release date hasn't been announced.

Related: Two-Time Oscar Nominee to Play Legendary Author Agatha Christie in Film That's Quietly Been in the Works for a Decade

Nancy Guthrie Update: Sheriff No Longer Communicating With Savannah & Family

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 8:05pm

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos is no longer communicating with Todayco-anchor Savannah Guthrie or other members of Nancy Guthrie's family, more than 100 days after the 84-year-old was abducted in Tucson, Ariz.

In a May 14 interview with People published on May 14, Nanos told the publication that direct communication between himself and the Guthrie family had ceased.

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Instead, the FBI is now handling conversations with Nancy's loved ones as investigations continue to pore through evidence and leads.

"The public is frustrated. Even the Guthrie family," Nanos acknowledged. "Every passing second must feel like 100 days because they don't know. What matters is moving forward carefully so we don't make mistakes or falsely accuse somebody or make a bad arrest."

Additionally, NewsNation senior national correspondent Brian Entin addressed the PCSD's no longer communicating with Nancy's family. He brought up the development in the May 15 episode of Brian Entin Investigates.

Related: Today Co-Anchor Savannah Guthrie to Host New Show

Entin called the news "interesting" because initially, it appeared Nanos was communicating with Savannah and her siblings, Annie Guthrie, and Camron Guthrie.

"He is technically in charge of the investigation still, as the sheriff of Pima County. Remember, it was never handed over to the FBI," the journalist pointed out. "So the fact that he is acknowledging that he is no longer directly communicating with the Guthrie family and says those conversations are being handled by the FBI, there's been a lot of curiosity. Is Savannah, are the Guthries getting frustrated with the sheriff based on all of this reported that's out there, that I've done that's out there, mistakes that have been made."

Entin also spoke with Morgan Wright, a former investigator and law enforcement expert, who pointed out, "To not have any contact, I think that's a question that ought to be answered. "

Wright added, "I think that's just one of the first rules of investigations and working with the family is that maintain constant contact, always keep open lines of communication because guess what? At some point, you're going to need their help. Let's say that a case is made, you're going to need their help in building the case, testifying, potentially providing evidence. So, you always want to make sure you're on good terms with them."

Nancy was last seen at her home on the evening of Jan. 31. As of writing, no suspect has been named in her disappearance.

Next: Nancy Guthrie Case: Sheriff Chris Nanos’ Fate Decided After Push To Remove Him From Office

1987 Survival Anthem That 'Almost Killed' Legendary Rock Band Became Their Only Top 10 Hit

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 7:59pm

Considering the Grateful Dead is one of the most beloved rock bands in history, newer fans might assume the group had plenty of top 10 hits over the course of their decades-long career. But in actual fact, only one Grateful Dead song ever got close to the top of the charts...and it came out over 20 years after the band first formed.

Released on the Grateful Dead's 1987 album In the Dark, "Touch of Grey" peaked at #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #1 on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. (Their biggest hit prior to that point was "Truckin,'" which peaked at #64 in 1971.)

This belated success came at a price, however. "Touch of Grey" catapulted the Grateful Dead to a level of success they didn't expect, weren't prepared for, and didn't even necessarily want.

in a 2022 interview with Esquire, Dennis McNally, who was the Dead's publicist when “Touch of Grey” came out, called the hit “a song that almost killed the Grateful Dead.”

McNally recalled the moment he told the band that "Touch of Grey" was climbing the charts, backstage at Madison Square Garden.

“I said, ‘I have some imposing news to tell you’,” he recalled. “And they sort of looked up at me and I said, ‘You’ve made the Top 10.'"

Jerry Garcia seemed less than thrilled, according to McNally, replying, "I am appalled."

“And he was only somewhat joking,” McNally quipped.

The demand for concert tickets was so huge that the band was forced to start playing stadiums.

“There simply were too many people,” McNally said, “and this led, among other things, to, say you’re at a big arena, and it’s got a parking lot, and the first 3,000 people that come in don’t have tickets. That means there’s 3,000 people that get there late, but that can’t park there. So then they start parking down the road, which does not make them popular with the neighborhood, or frankly with the venue.”

Related: Beloved '60s Rock Icon Suddenly 'Slipped Away' 39 Years Ago Today and Changed Music Forever

Still, for all the new challenges "Touch of Grey" brought the Grateful Dead, it also became a sort of defining anthem for the band (not to mention Deadheads everywhere), especially considering Garcia's prior health struggles (he slipped into a diabetic coma in 1986). When Garcia at last started playing live again months later, the band kicked off their first set at the Oakland Coliseum with "Touch of Grey," broadcasting a fitting sentiment for the occasion: "We will get by / We will survive"

"Man, being in that room with 15,000 people, when Jerry stepped back on that stage and they played ‘Touch of Grey’—f—king amen! That place went nuts,” said David Gans, co-host of the Tales from the Golden Road call-in show on SiriusXM’s Grateful Dead channel, in the same interview with Esquire.

Years later, "Touch of Grey" is still an inspiring song to countless fans, and with good reason.

“It’s an excellent song,” McNally said. “I mean, one of the reasons it was a hit is that it’s a really, really, good song.”

Related: Iconic Rock Band 'Levitated' the Pyramid in Egypt on This Day in 1978

'Perfect Match': Marissa Opens up About Rejection Sensitivity Around Demari

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 7:32pm

The cast of Perfect Match Season 4 gets to know each other in the hope of becoming the most compatible pairing. Marissa George from Love Is Blind D.C. is one of the singles and had a tough conversation with her partner. She opened up about rejection sensitivity dysphoria after the episode was released.

Spoiler for Perfect Match Season 4 episode 5!

Why Marissa Was Upset with Demari on 'Perfect Match' View this post on Instagram

Marissa, 34, matched with Demari Davis of Too Hot to Handle. However, she was worried when Katherine LaPrell talked to him about possibly becoming a match.

Demari chose Marissa and told her that she makes him feel comfortable. Marissa took offense to that because she wanted Demari to like her for her, not how she made him feel. Demari was confused, but they still matched.

Related: A.D. Complains About ‘Perfect Match’ Season 4 Spoiler Hypocrisy

Marissa shared a video of a woman talking about the episode and rejection sensitivity dysphoria on her Instagram Story on May 16. "While rejection is something people usually don’t like, the negative feelings that come with RSD are stronger and can be harder to manage or both," the Cleveland Clinic explained. "People with RSD are also more likely to interpret vague interactions as rejection and may find it difficult to control their reactions."

She followed it up with a video of herself talking to the camera. "So the video I just posted about rejection sensitivity dysphoria is something I feel very strongly about and something I wanted to be in the show. I'm so happy it was in the show," Marissa said.

She explained that she has dealt with it her whole life and was diagnosed with ADHD at six years old. "Learning about RSD really has helped me learn coping mechanisms, and I'm still learning," she said. "But it's crazy how strong the feelings of rejection and abandonment come out in those moments when, in reality, someone's not rejecting me. Someone's not abandoning me."

Marissa said it comes across as her overthinking and being jealous. The episode showed things were quiet and awkward between Marissa and Demari after that night. The next episodes will reveal if they can recover.

Related: ‘Perfect Match’: Ally Reveals What ‘Annoyed’ Her About Dating Jimmy in Season 4

1974 Classic Crossover, Originally a Mainstream Radio Anthem, Became a No. 1 Hit

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 7:12pm

In 1974, a silky dance track with a hypnotic groove changed the sound of pop radio almost overnight.

"Rock Your Baby" by George McCrae became a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, helping usher disco music into the mainstream years before the genre fully dominated popular culture.

Built around a relaxed rhythm, falsetto vocals and an infectious drum-machine groove, the song sounded strikingly modern at the time. Many music historians now view it as one of the earliest major disco crossover hits to break through on mainstream American radio.

Interestingly, McCrae almost never recorded the song himself.

The track was written and produced by Harry Wayne Casey and Richard Finch of KC and the Sunshine Band. The song was initially intended for another artist, but McCrae ended up recording it after hearing the demo and recognizing its potential.

"K.C. and Rick were recording a track that was too high for [K.C.] to sing," McCrae told Classic Bands. "Rick took it and re-wound it on another reel. He erased it and cleaned it up and they recorded this track that became number one all over the whole world. It was too high for K.C. to sing. He heard my vocal. I always had a high vocal tenor voice. Rick knew that track would suit me so he asked me if I'd be interested in singing that track and I said, 'Let me hear the the track,' and I listened to it and I said, 'I can do that, not a problem.' I put my vocals on it and the track became 'Rock Your Baby.'"

The gamble paid off in a massive way.

"Rock Your Baby" quickly exploded in popularity thanks to heavy radio airplay and its crossover appeal between R&B, pop and dance audiences. Its smooth production style and irresistible rhythm helped make it one of the defining radio anthems of 1974 and the decade as a whole.

The song's influence extended far beyond its chart success. Its use of drum machines and sleek dance production helped shape the sound of disco and later dance-pop music throughout the remainder of the decade.

For George McCrae, the track became the signature hit of his career and cemented his place in music history during one of pop music's most transformative periods. To this day, the song's popularity follows him wherever he goes.

"I have no problem with that," McCrae told Maxazine. "On the contrary. After all, the song has also given me a certain status. The significance of 'Rock Your Baby' to the music industry was great and heralded a new era, that of dancing in a disco. The song is still rock solid. Play 'Rock Your Baby' and the dance floor will fill up. That still makes me proud and I am blessed that the song is still so appreciated."

Over the decades, "Rock Your Baby" has remained a staple of classic dance and soft rock playlists, continuing to evoke the warm, laid-back energy of mid-1970s radio.

More than 50 years later, the song still sounds smooth, infectious and unmistakably timeless, and it remains a reminder of the moment disco first truly crossed into the mainstream.

Related: 1975 Timeless Classic, Written in 20 Minutes, Became a Soft Rock Anthem

Sephora Is Selling a 'Stunning' Eyeshadow Palette That Blends Beautifully on Mature Lids

Sat, 05/16/2026 - 7:10pm

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A neutral eyeshadow palette is an absolute must for any makeup collection. When done right, a neutral eyeshadow palette is super versatile and can be used to create a variety of eyeshadow looks, from day and night to the office or a date, and beyond. Of course, you know Makeup by Mario knows how to make a solid eyeshadow palette, and its beloved Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette in the Neutrals is a fan favorite for a reason. It's buildable, blendable and totally beautiful, too. Even better, you can pick it up right at Sephora.

Makeup by Mario's Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette: the Neutrals comes with 12 creamy, highly buildable eyeshadows in a neutral color story inspired by the '90s, combining the perfect balance of both warm and cool tones. Each shadow has a gorgeous matte finish that blends beautifully. From natural everyday looks to more dramatic smoky eyes for night, this Makeup by Mario palette has you covered.

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Makeup by Mario Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette: the Neutrals, $56 at Sephora

Sephora

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Cruelty-free, this eyeshadow palette is also formulated without parabens and without sulfates, SLS and SLES.

Shoppers adore this eyeshadow palette, giving it an average rating of 4.3 stars on Sephora.com, with 84 percent of reviewers saying they would recommend it to others. Fans of the palette appreciate it for its ease of blending, pigmentation, shade range and versatility.

Related: Sephora Just Brought Back This Iconic 12-Pan Eyeshadow Palette, and Shoppers Are Ecstatic: 'I Am Obsessed'

"I purchased this palette because I am so happy with The Original and it didn't disappoint. Shadows blend beautifully, even on mature skin and don't fade even after hours of wear," said one happy Sephora shopper in a five-star review on Sephora's website.

"This palette offers a stunning array of richly pigmented, velvety mattes that effortlessly blend to create endless eye looks. From versatile transition shades to deep hues, each color is curated to perfection, allowing for seamless layering and impeccable blending. The sleek packaging and mirror make it perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. Whether creating everyday elegance or bold statements, this palette delivers unparalleled quality and versatility!" raved another fan in a five-star review on Sephora.com.

You can find this gorgeous eyeshadow palette from Makeup by Mario on Sephora.com and in select Sephora stores. It retails for $56.

Related: Sephora Is Selling an Innovative New SPF That's 'Lightweight' and 'Wears Well Under Makeup'

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