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If a dream vacation has been sitting on your wish list, one wellness brand is giving shoppers the chance to make it a reality.

Lemme, the supplement brand co-founded by Kourtney Kardashian Barker, has launched a new sweepstakes that will award one winner $20,000 to create the vacation of their dreams.

Unlike many travel giveaways that come with a predetermined destination or itinerary, Lemme's prize is designed to be completely customizable. The winner can choose where to go, how long to stay and what kind of getaway best fits their idea of a reset, whether that's relaxing on a tropical beach, escaping to the mountains or exploring a new city.

The sweepstakes runs from Aug. 1 through Sept. 30.

To enter, shoppers will earn one entry for every $1 spent on purchases made through LemmeLive.com during the promotional period. Eligible subscription purchases receive double entries, giving customers another way to boost their chances of winning.

The promotion comes as Lemme continues to expand its lineup of wellness products. Alongside bestselling supplements like Lemme Sleep, Lemme Debloat and Lemme Purr, the brand recently introduced its new Lemme Skin Firming & Hydrating Gummy Rings.

The grand prize is intended to give the winner complete flexibility to design a trip that feels meaningful to them rather than following a preplanned vacation package.

Those interested in entering can find the official rules and complete sweepstakes details on Lemme's website. As always, it's worth reviewing the eligibility requirements and official rules before making a purchase.

For anyone already planning to stock up on supplements, the promotion offers an added incentive.

One lucky shopper will walk away with enough cash to plan a vacation almost anywhere they choose.

RELATED: Millions of Xfinity Customers Could Get Cash From a $117.5 Million Settlement—Here’s Who Qualifies

Sid Wilson has reportedly received a pink slip and been permanently "kicked out" of Slipknot, according to TMZ, in a move that has stunned fans.

While some may recognize Wilson for proposing to Kelly Osbourne during Ozzy Osbourne’s final concert in England last year, to metal fans, he's a living legend as Slipknot's DJ.

He has long been considered the heartbeat of the powerhouse band since their ferocious self-titled album that forever changed the metal scene in the late '90s.

A head-banging metal band with a DJ? It's true, but don't call them nu-metal like Korn and Limp Bizkit, according to guitarist Jim Root. The nine-member ensemble still believes they belong in a category of their own as they work on their eighth album, where they already have 50 songs in the works.

Wilson has always been the most outgoing of the bunch, whether expressing himself through a creative new mask each tour cycle or standing out with wild quotes in interviews.

Furthermore, frontman Corey Taylor once went so far as to call Wilson "his brother" while reflecting on the pair's falling out and eventual reconciliation, adding to fans' shock that he's being let go.

From the public's perspective, the 49-year-old artist has had a rough 2026 after his fiancée, Kelly, called off the relationship this March.

Per TMZ's report, Sid was "permanently kicked out" on Friday afternoon. The Grammy-winning band has not addressed the report, and no reason has been provided.

Root, however, took to Instagram Stories to share a cryptic message, writing, ""Don't believe everything you read. Stop. Think. Take a breath. Sit with it for awhile. Maybe. Just maybe even wait until there's more information."

Jim Root/Instagram Stories

While it surely caught him off guard, Slipknot has been no stranger to change, adding Eloy Casagrande to replace Jay Weinberg, and further back, adding Michael Pfaff to replace Chris Fehn, the engaging percussionist known for his variety of long-nosed masks, and losing longtime member Craig Jones along the way.

Additionally, Joey Jordison and Paul Gray passed away years prior, so the original lineup looks nowhere near its early days of taking Ozzfest by storm.

Grant Park had already gotten one surprise from Lorde before the night turned serious.

Headlining the opening night of Lollapalooza in Chicago on Thursday, July 30, the "Royals" singer brought out Charli XCX for an unannounced performance of their collaboration "Girl, So Confusing," a song the "Brat" star had written about their sometimes tense, sometimes affectionate dynamic. The crowd had spent the day fielding rumors that a team-up was coming, especially after Charli XCX teased as much during an earlier in-store appearance at Reckless Records. Even so, fans erupted when the two women actually walked out together, ending the moment with an embrace.

The reunion was especially notable for Lorde, who was making just her third Lollapalooza appearance. She first played the festival in 2014 as a 17-year-old riding the success of "Royals," then returned in 2017 for a set that got cut short by severe weather. Thursday's slot, she told the crowd, was a chance to finally "complete the circle."

But the celebration didn't last. As temperatures sat in the mid-80s and a packed crowd pressed toward the stage, multiple fans began passing out, and Lorde stopped her set to make sure they got help. According to an NBC Chicago producer at the show, she called for security at least three times as medical staff worked through the audience.

Related: R.E.M. Frontman Debuts New Song From His First-Ever Solo Album

Rather than leave the stage, Lorde used the pause to speak directly to the crowd about staying present through difficult moments, bringing in her own concerns about artificial intelligence and the state of the world. "I dream about fire all the time now, and I'm scared," she said. "But us meeting up and dancing and crying and singing to each other, that is one of the best ways I have to feel alive." She closed with a promise: "I'll keep singing to you through all of it."

The set list leaned heavily on her latest album, "Virgin," including the eating disorder-themed "Broken Glass," alongside earlier favorites like "Ribs" and "Green Light." Fans who had waited years to see Lorde return to Lollapalooza got both the reunion they wanted and an importnat (if unwanted) reminder about mother nature.

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If you listened to pop radio in 1979, odds are you had the Toto song "Georgy Porgy" stuck in your head for weeks.

However, underneath those catchy beats and guest Cheryl Lynn’s powerhouse vocals lay a surprisingly simple trick. Toto took their song title, a classic children's rhyme, and repeated it 18 times, until listeners couldn't help but sing along.

"Georgy Porgy" was written by Toto's David Paich. The song was included on their self-titled debut album in 1978.

The song is so beloved by Toto fans that it was named among one of their Top 10 songs by the website Classic Rock History. The site ranked it at No. 7, calling it "captivating" and an "addictive pleasure" to listen to.

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Genius Lyrics reprinted the song's highly repetitive words. Upon counting the number of times the song's title is said throughout, it is around 18.

Just before Toto's hit brought her further success, Lynn scored a massive hit with the disco song "Got to Be Real." It reached No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

In a 1988 interview with Modern Drummer, Toto's Jeff Porcaro discussed developing the groove for "Georgy Porgy." He explained, "It's imitating Paul Humphrey heavily; it's imitating Earl Palmer very heavily."

He concluded, "When it comes to that groove, my biggest influences were Paul Humphrey, Ed Greene, Earl Palmer, and the godfather of that 16th-note groove, James Gadson. That 'Georgy Porgy' groove I owe to them."

Even if you aren't a die-hard Toto fan, you’ve almost certainly sung along to "Georgy Porgy" at some point without even realizing who sang it. While it wasn't their highest-charting track at the time, it quickly became a beloved radio favorite across both pop and R&B stations, proving the band had a rare gift for making songs that felt instantly familiar.

After "Georgy Porgy's" success, Toto kept the hits coming. They ultimately set the stage for the monster pop anthems that would define their career in the early 1980s.

However, by the time 1982 arrived, Toto was practically everywhere. Their smash album Toto IV gave fans radio classics like "Rosanna" and the unforgettable mega-hit "Africa," making the band a household name overnight.

That early success set the tone for the rest of their career. It showed that long before they were filling arenas, Toto knew the secret to crafting fun, unforgettable music that appealed to just about everyone.

Looking back, "Georgy Porgy" was early proof of Toto's magic. It showed that whether they were making epic pop anthems or just playing around with a kids' nursery rhyme, the band always knew how to make a song you couldn't stop humming.

Related: 1982 Classic, Written About a Continent its Songwriter Never Visited, Is One of the Most Streamed Songs Ever

“Time Has Come Today” was a 1966 rock hit released by the Chambers Brothers. The song spent five weeks at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100, just missing out on the top ten, but it is now considered a landmark rock song of the era.

The Chambers Brothers consisted of four brothers. “Time Has Come Today” was written by two of them, Joe and Willie. According to SongFacts, they were inspired by one of the brothers taking LSD while sitting in on a class at UCLA.

In an interview with Psychedelic Science, Willie spoke about the creation of the song. “[Joe] had written about a two-and-a-half minute song. 'The Time Has Come Today.' I was lying in my bed one night in our band house, and all of a sudden I got this… Something came over me, and it said, and it says, 'Take the song to this part and just stay right there on that key and do some psychedelics.'"

He continued, "I went and got all my brothers, 'Hey man, let’s go down in the studio.' We had a two-story band house, and we had a basement. We had a rehearsal studio in the basement. We could play music 24 hours a day, and we couldn’t disturb anybody ’cause we in the basement. I went and knocked everybody up and said, 'Get up! We gotta go into the studio. I got an idea.'  I said, 'This is gonna be our contribution to psychedelic music.' And I turned the two-and-a-half minute 'Time Has Come Today' song into 11 minutes and some seconds.”

Related: 1988 No. 1 Funk Song, From an Iconic Supergroup Member, Topped the Charts 38 Years Ago

Willie also spoke about coining a new term in their hit song. “We used the phrase ‘psychedelicize,” he explained. “That was a word I never heard before. I don’t know where it came from. But my brother was writing that song, and he got to that point. He said, 'I’ve been loved and put aside, crushed by tumbing tides, and my soul has been…,' He couldn’t finish it. And I said, 'psychedelicized.' And he says, I can’t say that. What, you know, because of the church and God and religion, you can’t be messing around with religion and your soul and all this kinda stuff." However, they could not come up with any other words, so they stuck with the term.

Some of the band's other popular songs include their cover of “In the Midnight Hour” and “Love, Peace and Happiness.” The group disbanded in 1972 after completing an unreleased album.

Backstreets back at the Sphere for one more run of Into the Millennium in Las Vegas. Now, whether you're on a girls' trip or a couple's getaway to see the show, it's such a good time to relive some throwback-inspired fun in Sin City with activities that harken back to an early 2000's vibe, but elevated with cutting-edge tech and fun experiential experiences for every sense, from taste to relaxation.

Here are our picks to plan an itinerary to help you live a larger-than-life life weekend around seeing the Backstreet Boys live.

Related: These ’90s Hitmakers Turned Las Vegas Into America 250’s Biggest Party For Team USA Women Champions

Resident Evil video game thrills at Universal Horror Unleashed

Growing up during the 1990s to the early 2000s, pop culture was dominated by two forces: music like the Backstreet Boys and early video game systems. And no other video game has the same imprint on that era as Resident Evil, and the original PlayStation franchise is currently the main attraction at Universal Horror Unleashed in AREA15.

Now you can experience a zombie outbreak alongside iconic characters that you were able to play as back in the day, like Leon and Claire Redfield. Inside the chilling (and chilled) warehouse attraction hub, you can come face-to-face with flesh-hungry infected in an immersive, playable mission that places you in the greatest hits of the games.

Plus, there is a specialty menu of Umbrella Corporation-themed bites and drinks. It's such a joy for gamers to be able to take a T-Virus trio of Jell-O shots that come in syringes before helping take down Nemesis. Also included in the experience are additional bars, spooky shows, and Universal Horror Nights-esque haunted houses inspired by movies like The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. For more information, visit here.

View this post on Instagram Sit in the driver's seat at the F1 Arcade

When you're ready to head back to the strip for a night out, check out the nightclub and high-octane driving simulator fun at F1 Arcade at the Forum Shops in Caesar's Palace. It's a great spot to be in the heart of the action of the city. It's perfect for groups, as you can sit down for a bite and a drink before dancing to the DJ set of the night. Plus, if you don't want to be on your feet before the concert, get in some arcade fun by booking a row of F1 racing sims for you and your friends to enjoy some laps.

Treat yourself at the Museum of Ice Cream

Back at AREA15, make memories at the bubble gum pop pink dessert destination. The Museum of Ice Cream is now open and filled with the perfect photo-op moments to relive those mall picture days with friends. Plus, included with admission is an endless ice cream buffet with food court vibes and a bar with adult dessert beverages.

Pre-Game at Flight Club before the show

This hidden gem is right next to the escalators that lead out to the pedestrian access toward the Sphere. Do not miss pre-gaming at Flight Club, where you can sit at a classy carousel bar over top-notch mixed cocktails, better than overpriced syrupy concert drinks that might spill on your all-white matching Millennium outfits in the crowd. Why stress?

Image: Flight Club

Image: Flight Club

When you park at the Venetian or Uber in this area anyway, you just walk over to this group-friendly dart hall. There are fantastic food options to give you energy to sing along to the hits all night long. Flight Club is also a good rendezvous point to stop back in for a nightcap after the show since it's a late-night stop. Be sure to make reservations here, as they're the closest stop to the show, and you'll need a table.

Morning After Reset at Red Rock Spa

After a night of dancing along to all the BSB choreo you used to do as a teen, but now with Millennial knees, you're going to need to hit the spa. Over at Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa, it's a retreat from the bustle of the strip for your group. Rent out an all-day cabana for you and your travel party to brunch, while taking turns at facial or massage sessions that blend traditional relaxation techniques with modern beauty treatments. After getting pampered with their array of options to address the soreness from the night before, dip into a hot whirlpool or cold plunge, or decompress in a sauna, all of which come included with day access. Book it here, if you want it that way, of course.

Fred Coury says he's ready to get Cinderella back on the road, and he's not the only one.

The drummer opened up about a possible reunion during an appearance on SiriusXM's Trunk Nation With Eddie Trunk. Coury explained that after years of working as a session musician, he's eager to perform live again, and he says bassist Eric Brittingham feels the same way.

The holdup, according to Coury, comes down to one person: singer Tom Keifer. Coury said he and Brittingham are ready to reunite "when Tom says, let's do it."

Cinderella hasn't toured since a 2014 stop on the Monsters of Rock Cruise, and Coury pointed out that time isn't on the band's side. He noted that everyone is getting older, and that Keifer's recent setback added urgency to the conversation. Keifer canceled his solo tour dates after suffering a severe vocal muscle strain that cost him his voice.

Coury made clear the band never officially broke up, just went quiet. He said he'd tour again regardless, telling Trunk he'd go out with someone else if a Cinderella reunion doesn't happen.

Keifer has kept busy fronting his own solo band and released two studio albums during the 2010s. Brittingham spent time with the supergroup Devil City Angels before joining Bret Michaels' band. Guitarist Jeff LaBar died in 2021 at age 58, leaving the band's classic lineup incomplete.

Keifer previously addressed the band's status back in 2016, revealing that unresolved internal issues dating back years came to a head in 2012, prompting the band to step back until things were resolved.

Coury seems optimistic that a reunion could still happen, even if it's brief. He said Keifer is happy with his solo band and doesn't want to disrupt that, but suggested a one-time Cinderella run wouldn't get in the way. Whether that happens still depends on Keifer taking the first step.

The Weeknd made sure fans in Germany knew exactly who helped shape his sound.

Before launching into "Odd Look," his 2013 collaboration with French electronic producer Kavinsky, The Weeknd paused to explain just how much the artist has influenced his own music.

"Tonight we're going to celebrate an incredible talent, a visionary, a pioneer to dance music, to electronic (music), and a huge inspiration for myself," he told the crowd. ‘Blinding Lights’, ‘Save Your Tears’ - all of this is inspired by Kavinsky's work. I want to give a big shout out to Kavinsky. It's his birthday tomorrow, so we're going to celebrate it tonight."

The heartfelt introduction set the stage for a live performance of "Odd Look," the pair's acclaimed collaboration from Kavinsky's 2013 album OutRun. While the song has long been a favorite among fans of both artists, it's rarely performed live, making the moment especially meaningful.

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It's not hard to hear the connection. Kavinsky, born Vincent Belorgey, helped define the moody, retro-futuristic synth sound that would go on to influence a wave of pop and R&B artists, The Weeknd very much included. His music found a particularly iconic home in film, most notably with "Nightcall," the pulsing, atmospheric track that became inseparable from Ryan Gosling's Drive. Co-produced by Daft Punk’s Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and featured CSS’s Lovefoxx on vocals, the song's brooding, neon-soaked atmosphere helped shape the 2011 film's entire mood. In the years since, it's become shorthand for a whole aesthetic: synthwave. Built on neon-lit nostalgia and synth-driven tension, that sound has clearly left its mark on The Weeknd's own artistic DNA.

By bringing "Odd Look" into his own set, The Weeknd wasn't just paying homage to an influence - he was making the throughline from Kavinsky's cinematic synth-pop to his own chart-topping sound impossible to miss.

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If it feels like you learned how to do your eyeliner one way years ago and then never changed it up again, now's your chance to start. Parade spoke with Suna Myles, a Beverly Hills celebrity makeup artist, and she revealed her favorite eyeliner trick that makes getting the perfect eye look so much easier.

Myles has worked with stars like Euphoria‘s Bella Podaras, among others, and she shares not only her genius eyeliner hack, but also ways to use the makeup product to fake bigger eyes, prevent smudges and transferring and get the perfect wing.

But first, you need to make sure you're using the right eyeliner color for the occasion. Most people reach for a basic black liner, but Myles notes that the shade can sometimes feel "too stark or heavy for daytime." In those instances, she recommends trying a dark brown or espresso-colored liner. "It adds rich definition while keeping the look soft and modern," she tells Parade.

That's not to say you have to give up your black liner forever. It can pair well with evening events, special occasions and bold daytime looks. Here's how to get the most out of your next eyeliner look, according to a professional makeup artist.

Related: Celebrity Makeup Artist Reveals a Clever Concealer Trick for Mature Skin I Wish I’d Known About Sooner

This Pro Makeup Artist's Genius Eyeliner Trick: Microlining

Myles recommends "microlining" your eyes at the lash roots. "Instead of trying to draw one continuous line across your entire upper lid ... you gently nestle small micro-dots or micro-strokes directly into the gaps between your upper eyelash roots," she tells Parade.

Myles adds that the resulting effect "creates the illusion of a full, dense lash line without taking up any visible eyelid space."

And she explains, "This is especially useful for hooded eyes, monolids or small eyelids where traditional liner eats up all the mobile lid area."

Related: How To Make Your Eyes Pop After 50: 7 Tricks Makeup Artists Swear By

How To Recreate Eyeliner Microlining at Home

Here's the makeup artist's step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Prep

Before you start anything, "ensure your eyelid and lash root area are dry and oil-free," says Myles.

Step 2: Use the right product

"To master microlining without creating messy smudges, precision is everything," says Myles. She recommends using an ultra-fine felt-tip liner like the MOIRA 24HR Pro Tip Ink Liner for better control.

Step 3: Anchor your hand

"Rest your elbow on a flat surface like a table and place your pinky finger against your cheek for stability," Myles says.

Step 4: Place dots and connect them

"Gently press the fine felt tip into the root space between lashes along the outer two-thirds of your eye," says Myles, adding that you can use a handheld mirror at chest level while looking down for added visibility. Then you can "gently flick the tip along the roots to merge the dots into a seamless, soft definition line."

Related: A Celebrity Makeup Artist Is Begging Women to Finally Stop Following This Outdated Rule

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How To Make Eyeliner Stay on Without Smudging or Fading

Myles says there's a few things you can do to prevent your eyeliner from migrating down your face or transferring into your eye crease. She recommends using an eye primer or even a matte concealer "from lash line to brow bone before applying any liner."

She adds that you can also set your liner with a similar matte eyeshadow color. "The powder
absorbs moisture and sets the pigment in place," she says, explaining that you can also use translucent setting powder under our lower lashes to prevent "natural facial oils from breaking down the liner underneath your eye."

"If putting liner in the lower waterline, dry the area first using a clean cotton swab before applying waterproof liner," she continues.

And if you're doing a wing with your liner, she recommends keeping "a pointed cotton swab dipped in micellar water or a bit of concealer nearby to crisp up winged tips."

Related: 9 Best Cream Blushes, Tested by Celebrity Makeup Artists

How To Apply Eyeliner for Bigger-Looking Eyes

Myles says if you're looking "to open up the eye area visually," there are several eyeliner approaches you can take.

"Never apply dark black liner all the way along your bottom waterline, as this shrinks the appearance of the eye," she says, adding that you can instead use a nude or pale pink liner inside your lower waterline and then "place a tiny pop of champagne or pearl eyeshadow at the inner tear duct to draw light inward."

She says you should also start your top eyeliner at about the mid-pupil, sharing, "Keeping the inner third of the lid clean keeps the eye wide open."

And Myles adds that a wing pointing towards the tail of your eyebrow instead of straight sideways also helps give the eye a larger appearance.

Related: I Tried Victoria Beckham’s Satin Kajal Eyeliner for 5 Months—Is It Worth the Hype?

5 Common Eyeliner Mistakes To Avoid

Here's what Myles warns against doing.

1. Ignoring your eye shape

Myles says it's important to tailor your liner style to your eye shape. If you have hooded eyes she warns that "a thick graphic wing ... can hide beneath the skin fold when looking straight ahead." She recommends flicking the eyeliner around the natural fold so that it can stay visible.

2. Using the wrong formula

"Liquid liner can easily smudge on hooded lids if it doesn't dry completely before you open your eye. Gel or quick-drying waterproof liquid liners work much better," she tells Parade.

3. Being heavy-handed

Myles says, "Encasing the entire eye in thick dark liner pulls the eye downward and makes it look smaller."

4. Leaving gaps

"Leaving a line of skin visible between your eyeliner and your lashes looks incomplete. Make sure to stamp liner right into the lash roots," she explains.

5. Pulling your eye

"Pulling your outer corner skin taut while drawing a wing distorts the natural shape," says Myles. "When you release the skin, the line warps into a step-like shape."

She adds that you should always be applying your eyeliner when your eyes are relaxed and open.

Up Next:

Related: 'I Tried the New KISS imPRESS Nails for 30 Days To See if They Are Actually Worth It'

Source:

• Suna Myles, a celebrity makeup artist based in Beverly Hills.

Disneyland Resort is in the middle of a massive transformation, but making room for the new often means saying farewell to fan favorites.

As Disney California Adventure prepares for a major expansion—including the addition of a brand-new Avatar-themed land inspired by Avatar: The Way of Water—the park will be shuttering Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulleyto the Rescue! in 2027.

The upcoming closure has sparked plenty of nostalgia among parkgoers who consider the attraction a cornerstone of family-friendly fun in the Hollywood Land section of the park. As theme park site AllEars reported, saying goodbye to the nearly 20-year-old attraction is "bittersweet," noting that it has stood out as "something the whole family can enjoy."

Related: In a Surprising Twist, Disney Guests Will Get One More Year With This Beloved Pixar Ride

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AllEars highlighted a reader review from last summer that captured why the attraction has built such a loyal following: "My family loves Monsters Inc. and this ride was so fun!! They did a really good job making it just like the movie. It was super cute, and I especially loved the scene with all the doors! This was a perfect dark ride!"

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

While initial plans pointed to a potential closure in early 2026, Disney delayed the attraction's removal to 2027, confirming that early prep work for the new land could begin without immediately shutting down the ride. That gives Disney California Adventure guests through the rest of 2026 to take one final taxi ride through Monstropolis before work begins on Pandora's new boat ride experience.

Related: Disneyland Paris Just Announced a Major New Disney Princess Experience

Source:

• AllEars

August is here, which means we're in for a month full of mixed emotions. Summer is coming to an end, and school is starting—some will be happy about that, and others not so much. There are also pros and cons to it being the last full month of hot weather. Sun worshippers will miss the August heat, whereas autumn lovers will look forward to sweater weather and all things pumpkin spice. Wherever you fall on the emotional scale of summer ending, we have some funny August memes that you will be able to relate to. 

From sweating right after walking outside to fall apparel already lining store shelves, there are plenty of relatable August moments we can laugh at. Enjoy these hilarious memes about August to celebrate the eighth month of the year.

Related: Taylor Swift Now Basically Owns the Month of August and Swifties Can’t Get Enough of It

45 Best August Memes1. Waited too long.

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2. Emotional ups and downs of summer.

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3. August is a prelude to spicier things.

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4. First day of school excitement.

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5. August hair and I just don't care.

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6. It's too hot.

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7. The cost is real.

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8. Summer goes by fast.

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9. We're wilting over here.

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10. If only you could make it happen.

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Related: Talk About A+ Content—We’ve Got the 60 Best School Memes

11. Ready for Fall.

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12. Too hot for too long.

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13. The anticipation!

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14. Starting too soon.

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15. Only looks inviting.

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16. Almost that time.

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17. It's so close.

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18. Not ready.

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19. Something to look forward to. 20. It is a reality.

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21. It's gonna get chilly!

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22. You can't make everyone happy!

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23. Ignorance is bliss.

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24. August is bittersweet.

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25. No returning now.

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Related: Get Ready for Pumpkin Picking Season! Here Are the Best Pumpkin Patches Near You in Every State

26. Autumn lovers.

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27. Teachers at the end of summer experience a different level of sadness. @crimshady21

#Meme #MemeCut #teachers #summer #itsover #lessonplanning

♬ original sound - Omaru 28. Just a summer thing.

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29. Spotlight on August.

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30. When mom is a teacher.

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31. Back to reality.

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32. August and all is good.

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33. Need more time.

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34. Too hot to move.

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35. Some like it hot, some like it cold.

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36. August babies, this one's for you! @vane_ssaher

#CapCut #fyp #MemeCut #foryou #foryou #foryoupage #fypシ #parati

♬ sonido original - Lauren 37. Now that it's August, might as well wait til next year.

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38. A good point!

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39. The hottest month.

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40. It was fun but...

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41. It's not for everyone. 5 best Xbox 360 games (kind of)
by u/dilyand in gaming 42. Maybe next year... 43. It was a fresh start that ended fast.

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44. August school shopping.

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45. There are some perks.

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Related: 45 Funny September Memes as We Make the Transition From Summer to Fall

Jakob Butturff, an eight-time Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Tour champion, died suddenly on Friday, July 31, at just 32 years old. The PBA confirmed his death in a statement, and no official cause has been released.

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The news hit the bowling world hard, and tributes poured in almost immediately from fellow pros who considered him a friend as much as a competitor.

PBA Commissioner Tom Clark praised Butturff's character and his one-of-a-kind delivery, saying fans marveled at how he turned a wave of strikes into title runs, capable of winning "at any time, in any event."

Fellow pro E.J. Tackett shared a message that captured just how close the two were, describing Butturff as someone who would "give the shirt off his back" for anyone in need. Tackett said the loss left the whole tour shaken and that Butturff would be missed by everyone who knew him.

A.J. Johnson's tribute leaned personal and tender, telling Butturff to go give his mom "the biggest hug" he always gave everyone else. Johnson remembered him as someone with one of the biggest hearts on tour, who made everyone around him laugh.

Jason Belmonte, one of the sport's biggest stars, kept his message short and simple, writing that the PBA had "lost one of its kindest."

Fans flooded social media with their own reactions beneath the PBA's announcement. Many wrote simple messages of condolence, while others reflected on how young 32 is to lose someone so talented and well-liked across the sport. Several fans recalled watching him compete live and being struck by his personality as much as his bowling.

Butturff was born and raised in Las Vegas and also lived in Phoenix, Arizona, and Binghamton, New York. He leaves behind a legacy as one of the most technically unique bowlers the sport has seen, and a community of fans and fellow pros still processing the loss.

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If you’ve been eyeing your closet, hallway, or bedroom corner and thinking it could use a little reset, Walmart has the Edx 4-Drawer Retro Flower Dresser marked down to $38, from $62. The floral pattern gives it a subtle vintage-inspired feel that’s perfect for manifesting warmer weather, and it’s compact enough for small spaces but designed to make a difference when you’re organizing.

This retro fabric dresser features a sturdy iron frame and a particleboard top, so it doesn’t feel flimsy despite its lightweight design. The drawers are made from non-woven fabric reinforced with density board and faux leather panels. It’s designed to fit narrow spaces, making it ideal for closets, entryways, bedrooms, and hallways where bulky furniture can’t squeeze into. The wood top also gives you surface space for decor, a lamp, or everyday essentials.

Edx 4-Drawer Retro Flower Dresser, $38 (was $62) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The dresser’s four deep drawers provide plenty of space to store clothes, seasonal accessories, baby items, or miscellaneous knick-knacks that might pile up. It adds storage without adding bulkiness, which is especially helpful in apartments or smaller bedrooms. If you’re easing into spring organizing, this piece helps make it feel actually manageable.

One shopper wrote, “This is perfect for our baby's clothes. It is just the right size to put in the closet, and the drawers are a good size too.” Another shared that it’s “very easy to put together,” and a third added, “The dresser looks so pretty.”

The retro floral pattern pairs well with neutral bedding, light wood tones, and spring decor. Its design easily softens a bedroom, or you could place it in a hallway for grab-and-go storage, in a nursery, or tucked inside a closet to maximize vertical space.

Shop More Deals

• Concetta 2-Drawer Nightstand, From $24 (was $36) at Walmart
• Bigleap 9-Drawer Dresser, From $32 (was $61) at Walmart
• Simenmax 4-Drawer Storage Dresser, From $22 (was $42) at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s Rustic Ladder Shelf Is a Genius Storage Solution for Small Spaces, and It’s Nearly Half Off

For under $40, this is a practical way to refresh a room without committing to a major furniture investment. The Edx 4-Drawer Retro Flower Dresser offers storage, charm, and flexibility in one compact design. If summer organizing is on your radar, this is an easy place to start.

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.

Rosie O’Donnell recently opened up, candidly speaking about the possibility of hosting a new streaming show, America’s love for nostalgia, the death of celebrity culture, how she could bring back hope, and why she won’t return to the small screen while Donald Trump is still in the White House. 

O’Donnell’s agents are already taking meetings, looking at how she could potentially star in a new series. What does she have to say about her future? 

Podcaster Kyle Ridley just shared a sneak peek into his in-depth conversation with the comedian from Monday’s upcoming edition of his ‘The Tangle with Kyle Ridley’ podcast. Ridley pressed Rosie on her statement from a previous interview in which she talked about returning to a full-time hosting gig, saying, “Daytime would be interesting.” 

Rosie O'Donnell attends the 79th Annual Tony Awards at Radio City Music Hall on June 07, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Dia Dipasupil/WireImage) Getty Images

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Ridley noted the extensive changes to the daytime TV landscape in the past 30 years (The Rosie O’Donnell Show first aired 30 years ago in June of 1996) and asked the comedian if she would consider a streaming series or a co-host/panel arrangement. O’Donnell shared, “It would look a lot like my old show to tell you the truth.”

The former daytime host continued, giving her views on what she believes her would-be show would need to succeed: “I think America wants nostalgia. I think what they don’t want is celebrity culture. I think celebrity culture is dead in America. And you know, there was a time where if you could get a big star, the numbers went through the roof. Well, that was before the Internet, really. It was before you could literally write a DM to me and I’ll respond. But I think the time for celebrity culture has died down.”

She went on to reveal the content that she wants to see on her someday future daytime (or streaming) series: “I would like to do mostly human interest stories, tell good news, have fun and games with the people like we used to, get to have Broadway on, and if a celebrity wants to come on and chat, that’s fantastic. But it wouldn’t be because they had a movie to promote; it wouldn’t be that you would see them on every other talk show with the same lead-in questions and the same stories.”

Why the shift away from celebrity culture? Rosie says she wants to, “Bring back hope, bring back an hour of peaceful joy, you know. And that’s what I’m interested in.”

In terms of a network return, the former host told Ridley, “Now would it be streaming? I suppose, because the syndication market is pretty much dead. And I think I would be open to doing it on a streaming service. I’m open. My agents are taking meetings and figuring out what would be the best option.”

Of course, there is one major caveat: “It would be when Trump is no longer in power. That’s when I would want to start. And that’s really when the healing must begin. The healing must begin in this country. And if I could be in any way part of that, I would be very, very happy.”

We've experienced the Summer of Taylor Swift for multiple summers now. With all the coverage of her marriage to Travis Kelce, there's just been nonstop Swift news and coverage. But are we surprised? Swift continues to have a tight grip on the cultural moment regardless of the time of year. However, with the arrival of August, there's yet another reason why Swift owns the summer: her folklore song "august" has inspired fans to claim the month as hers (and theirs). 

"August" is the eighth song on Swift's 2020 album, folklore, and, of course, the eighth month of the year. And with a song that shares a name with a month, it makes sense that Swifties are using August as just another time to post about their love for Swift and "august." 

The song tells the story of the girl James was cheating on Betty with (you know, the folklore love triangle that includes the songs "cardigan," "betty" and "august"). Heartbreaking lyrics with a wistful undertone—wishing to belong to someone instead of being someone's second choice—it makes sense that Swifties love the song and want to commemorate it with the start of August. 

With all of that said, this Aug. 1st, celebrate the month of August with these 27 hilarious Taylor Swift "august" memes and reactions. 

Related: Which Taylor Swift Song Are You, Based on Your Birth Month

27 Taylor Swift 'August' Memes and Reactions1. Truly, Taylor Swift's mind is something else. 2. This epic rendition of 'august' is a perfect example of the song's hold on the fandom. @kailynrodrii

baby swiftie #tsitp #thesummeriturnedpretty

♬ original sound - Jaybee Pantalla Camposano - Jaybee Camp 3. 'Folklore' girlies really won with this one.  @mariyahgerber

Mamas still got it 🤣 #momsoftiktok #momlife #skating #taylorswift #fyp #viral

♬ original sound - Jaybee Pantalla Camposano - Jaybee Camp 4. The Barbie x Taylor Swift crossover we deserved.

It’s officially august by taylor swift month pic.twitter.com/8plp69hepE

— kadriye (@tayspetsch) July 31, 2023 5. August is all about bringing in the end of summer and Taylor Swift vibes. @theiarcher

me || #august #taylorswift #folklore #viral #fyp #theiarcher

♬ august - marie ౨ৎ

Related: Prove You're a Mastermind by Answering These 50 'Tricksy' Taylor Swift Trivia Questions

6. Luckily, Taylor performed this every night of The Eras Tour, so fans got their 'august' fill.  @anna_heid

the end gives me chills EVERY time #august #taylorswift

♬ original sound - Anna Heid 7. The girls who get it, get it. 

august by Taylor Swift pic.twitter.com/hYPDF8D83a

— R. (@midnightstrack2) July 31, 2023 8. It's happening already! 9. I think we can all agree on who the villain in 'august' was...

If you don’t like august by Taylor Swift, you’re probably James. pic.twitter.com/xvLjWcQ857

— R. (@midnightstrack2) August 1, 2023 10. 'Salt air' is truly taking on a new meaning for Swifties.  @shaynasversion

make sure u salt the air tonight - its a swifties yearly tradition #taylorswift #august #saltair #saltairandtherustonyourdoor #augusttaylorswift #erastour #swifties #swifttoker #saltairtaylorswift

♬ august sped up - r & m <3 ⸆⸉ 11. Choose your fighter: Your girlfriend, or 'august' by Taylor Swift. Choose wisely.

for some people, today is national girlfriend day, for others, it is august by taylor swift. never both.

— iya ★ (@hotmessjunk) August 1, 2023

Related: Taylor Swift’s Net Worth and How She Achieved Billionaire Status

12. Salt air? @mycloverbloomss

I'M DYING- 😭 #swifttok #taylorsversion #swiftie #august #taylor #swift #meme #fyp

♬ august - Taylor Swift 13. We gotta address the elephant in the room: The song is heartbreaking and relatable so... grab the tissues if you're gonna be playing 'august' all day long. 

girls when they listen to august by taylor swift on august 1st pic.twitter.com/9h63UEBfx4

— lou (@killinfear) July 30, 2023 14. You can't get to Christian Girl Autumn without hitting 'august' first.

i know she’s streaming august by taylor swift today pic.twitter.com/q5KalRbHzz

— . (@ForeverElSanto) August 1, 2023 15. Words to live by, honestly.

if you didn’t start your day listening to august by Taylor Swift are you really living for the hope of it all

— Sammie (@samanthtweets) August 1, 2023 16. The dedication of some Swifties is so impressive. 

✨to live for the hope of it all✨

Happy August (by Taylor Swift) to all who celebrate 🫶🏻@taylorswift13 @taylornation13 #august #august1st pic.twitter.com/4Za1o9hJh7

— Lauren ❤️‍🔥🧵 (@LoSewsSwiftly) August 1, 2023 17. A Swiftie Ken doll would sell out so fast.  18. Let's be honest: Jon Snow would definitely be a Swiftie with a deep love for her most depressing songs. 

august by Taylor Swift pic.twitter.com/5ASToFbcTH

— David Cavazos (@DavidCav21) August 1, 2023 19. Get it?

Related: OK, Wow, These 24 Taylor Swift Tattoo Ideas Are Straight Out of Your Wildest Dreams

20. Taylor Swift supplied us with an 'august' tweet and Swifties did the rest. 

‼️ | @TaylorSwift13’s tweet about “august” has now surpassed 1 Million likes on Twitter! pic.twitter.com/JJ4kYgfwty

— Taylor Swift News (@blessedswifty) August 1, 2023 21. August just means something so different for Taylor Swift fans.  22. 'August' just wanted to be KENough for James, okay?

happy august to us taylor swift & barbie girlies pic.twitter.com/3GjGFDCmhv

— gi (@swiftsgal) August 1, 2023 23. We are so close! 24. If you want to get deep into 'august' lore, this month is for the girls who don't feel chosen and haven't had their epic love story yet.  @matchacharachaa

august girlies wya? #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #08 #august #taylorswift #swifttok #swiftie #swifties #tiktokph

♬ august sped up - speedswifty 🪩 25. 'Folklore' just hits different when you listen in August.  @kayden.clayton

just in time for school to start 🫠 #fyp #taylorswift #foryoupage #folklore #school #junioryear #taylorsversion #illicitaffairs #august #taylorswifttok #blowthisup @Taylor Swift @Taylor Nation

♬ original sound - ꫂ ၴႅၴL 26. 'August' is truly just such an 'Inject it into my veins!' type of song.  @ev3rmores13

ya no es agosto ☹️ #taylorswift #swiftie #august #folklore #fyp

♬ august - Taylor Swift 27. The lead-up to Aug. 1 is truly just as magical as the day itself.

Related: Get to Know Taylor Swift's Parents, Scott and Andrea Swift

John Fogerty spent just 20 minutes writing "Fortunate Son," the Creedence Clearwater Revival classic inspired by Americans' growing frustration with the Vietnam War. Rather than protesting the soldiers who served, the song takes aim at the wealthy and politically connected families whose sons often avoided military service while working-class young men bore a disproportionate share of the fighting. A new ranking names the greatest protest songs of all time, and more than 50 years after its release, "Fortunate Son" sits at the top of the list, proving that its message remains as relevant today as it was in 1969.

How John Fogerty Wrote "Fortunate Son" in Just 20 Minutes @theofficialccr

"Some folks inherit star-spangled eyes, hoo, they send you down to war, Lord." Fortunate Son, live at Royal Albert Hall. Fortunate Son is written and arranged by John Fogerty, and originally appears on 1969's Willy and the Poor Boys.

♬ Fortunate Son - Creedence Clearwater Revival

Fogerty was inspired to write "Fortunate Son" after reading about David Eisenhower, the grandson of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who served in the U.S. Naval Reserve rather than being deployed to Vietnam. Eisenhower was also the son-in-law of President Richard Nixon. To Fogerty, the marriage symbolized the close relationship between America's political elite at a time when thousands of young men from ordinary families were being drafted to fight in Vietnam.

Fueled by frustration, the lyrics poured out quickly, and Fogerty completed "Fortunate Son" in just 20 minutes. The song captured his anger over a system that placed a greater burden on working-class Americans while the wealthy and well-connected often avoided the same sacrifices.

Related: 18-Year-Old Pop Star, Known for Her Angelic Voice, Was Actually One of Rock's Greatest Drummers

Why "Fortunate Son" Became the Definitive Protest Song @theofficialccr

John talks to Dan Rather about the origins of "Fortunate Son," which appears on 1969's Willy and the Poor Boys (original air date: January 12th, 2016)

♬ original sound - Creedence Clearwater Revival

While many Vietnam War protest songs criticized the troops, Fogerty's anthem instead called out the inequality of the draft system and the hypocrisy of those who celebrated patriotism while avoiding the consequences of war.

The song's direct, plainspoken lyrics made its message impossible to misunderstand. Combined with Fogerty's passionate vocals and Creedence Clearwater Revival's driving guitars and pounding rhythm section, "Fortunate Son" became a rallying cry for a generation questioning authority and demanding fairness.

Why "Fortunate Son" Still Resonates Today

More than half a century after its release, "Fortunate Son" remains one of the most recognizable songs in rock history. It has been featured in countless films, documentaries, television shows, and political discussions, introducing new generations to its message.

While many listeners associate the song with the Vietnam War, its enduring appeal comes from something much broader. "Fortunate Son" speaks to the frustration people feel when the rules seem to apply differently depending on wealth, status, or family connections.

That timeless message is why "Fortunate Son" continues to be ranked as the greatest protest song of all time.

Related: 1977 Soul Classic, Long Mistaken for a Love Song, Was Actually One of Music's Greatest Breakup Anthems

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Comic book aficionados and sci-fi fans are having a big year, with the stories they grew up on swinging onto the big screen in movies such as this week's Spider-Man: Brand New Day from Marvel Studios and earlier this summer's Star Wars universe release, The Mandalorian and Grogu.

To celebrate your favorite Marvel Comics era and Lucasfilm lore, pop culture lifestyle brand Heroes & Villains has released nostalgia-forward fashion and travel accessories.

Related: Marvel Studios TV Stars Talk Horror Turns This Fall

At San Diego Comic-Con, Parade got a look at the collection's debut and talked to Creative Director and Brand Manager Doug Johnson about how, at the core of each line, there's a love for the legacy of the iconic characters.

"Heroes and Villains is very much rooted in exploring the original storyline with all of these characters. That's really like what we like to lean into," Johnson said about timing them to big releases such as this Winter's Avengers: Doomsday, adding, "But we like to take the approach of what's the origin story there and lean into the original comics and pull inspiration from that. Because that's what everybody knows, and you have grown up like the original Doom, the original Latveria, right? Like the OG X-Men."

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Johnson continued, "That's really like our mantra is just to lean into that. Because a lot of the film releases are very short-lived, it's like a big pop, and then it's gone. But we love the nostalgia; I mean, that's what everybody has in their hearts, right? It's like the OG comics."

That love for in-universe accuracy extends to not just their fashion lines but their travel gear. Johnson described their inspiration: "We've got a ton of carry-ons specifically in Star Wars, and we are now expanding broadly into Marvel, so here we're showcasing one of our Weapon X luggage pieces, and then we have a whole line of new Marvel upcoming this year. We'll be featuring Punisher, Doom, and Spider-Man. We have a new Wolverine luggage piece coming. So yeah, we're really expanding that category."

"We have an amazing designer on our team who put this together. The original Star Wars pieces were roughly based on the cases and stuff that you'll see if you go to Galaxy's Edge, and you see all the props. So that's where that original inspiration kind of derived from. With the Marvel pieces, we made a specific mold that differentiates the Star Wars pieces from the Marvel pieces, and the Marvel pieces are a lot more of a techy vibe," Johnson shared, pointing to the authentic approach they took with Star Wars and applying it to Marvel aesthetics.

It can be seen in the styles of what it would look like through the lens of Weapon X or Stark Industries. "When it comes to designing the piece, it's really, like, based on what the character vibe is. So, like, the Punisher one is more like rough and rugged-looking with, like, the almost spray-painted stencil-looking bits on it. Whereas, you know, something like Spider-Man is going to be a little cleaner and crisp because we know how flashy and clean he is, right, so it's really—yeah, it's kind of dictated by the character and their vibe," Johnson said of their core character approach.

Related: 'Star Wars' Most Famous Prop Sells For a Whopping $3.75 Million at Auction

The SDCC debut also previewed The Mandalorian and Grogu pieces, which, while those characters weren't around when the original films debuted, the look of the collection harkens back to the serial space western thematics of yesterday. "The Mandalorian pieces that we've done are incredible. It's all this, like very earthy, desert-y, you know, heavy canvas, rugged backpacks and sling bags, and just really fitting to the vibe of the Mandalorian."

Johnson explained, "We've got some workwear shirts that we did that are super awesome. We're featuring Babu Frick workwear. We also have a Watto workwear piece, and the really cool thing that we got going over there is that we've released the Mandalorian full-size luggage paired with the carry-on Grogu."

Image: Parade Magazine/Sabina Graves

The Marvel and Star Wars collections are now live online over at heroesvillains.com

If your ideal Mexico getaway involves sipping something cold by a rooftop pool without a single kid splashing near your lounger, go ahead and clear some space on your calendar for fall 2026. Hilton and Fuerte Group Hotels just announced the upcoming debut of Amàre Cancun Adults Only All-Inclusive Resort, Curio by Hilton, officially set to open its doors on October 31, 2026.

It marks the very first property under Hilton’s design-forward Curio Collection umbrella to land in Cancun. For those of us who love the ease of an all-inclusive stay but crave the elevated, boutique aesthetic of a Mediterranean beach club, this one is shaping up to be a total game-changer.

“This signing reflects the strength of Hilton’s growth strategy in Mexico and our focus on expanding in high-demand resort destinations across the region,” said Pablo Maturana, vice president, development, architecture, design and construction, Caribbean and Latin America, Hilton. “With Amàre Cancun, we are adding a distinctive adults-only all-inclusive resort to our portfolio while marking the start of our relationship with Fuerte Group, a valued owner with a strong vision for the destination.”

Related: 5 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico, According to Getaway Guru Darley Newman

Prime Beachfront Real Estate and Golden Hour Rituals

Hilton

Situated right along Boulevard Kukulcan—just a quick 15-mile drive from Cancun International Airport—the resort sits in a protected bay where natural ocean currents keep the beach pristine and the water crystal-clear. The property spans two towers (a main 20-story building and a smaller six-story tower), and here is the best part: all 429 guest rooms and suites come with ocean views.

The overall feel centers on a signature "Cosmediterranean" lifestyle, effortlessly blending Europe's coastal style with local Mexican culture. Both towers feature their own private rooftop pools, making them the ultimate perch for daily golden-hour rituals, live sets by resident DJs, and sunrise yoga sessions.

“Partnering with Hilton marks an exciting new chapter for us,” said Javier Luque, CEO of Fuerte Group Hotels. “With Amàre Cancun, we are introducing a distinctive adults-only all-inclusive experience to the destination, blending Mexico’s vibrant spirit with the sophisticated design, exceptional gastronomy and wellness experiences inspired by the Mediterranean lifestyle.”

Related: The First All-Inclusive Park Hyatt in Mexico Is a Quiet Luxury Game Changer

Michelin-Starred Dining and Endless Poolside Lounging

When it comes to food, you definitely won't be running out of options. The all-inclusive lineup features nine distinct restaurants, nine bars, and a cozy coffee shop. To elevate the onboard dining, several of the concepts feature menus crafted alongside Michelin-starred chefs, bringing together classic Mediterranean techniques and fresh Latin American flavors.

When you aren't sampling the menus or lounging by the resort's three outdoor pools, you can check out rotating art exhibitions from contemporary Latin American creators, or book some quiet time at the full-service spa (complete with nine treatment rooms and a dedicated bridal suite).

Bookings through Hilton channels are expected to open later this summer ahead of the Halloween 2026 opening, and yes—you'll be able to use and earn Hilton Honors points for your stay.

Related: One of Riviera Maya’s Most Popular All-Inclusive Resorts Just Unveiled a Huge Upgrade for Families

With summer in full swing, August babies are getting ready to party! And what better gift for your favorite Leo (or Virgo!) than one of their spectacular birthdaygemstones? When it comes to the August birthstone, there's one primary stone, but two secondary stones as well. And they're all gorgeous, with fascinating histories.

So if you’re in the market for a birthday gift (or treating yourself!), these birthstones for August are perfect choices. Let's hop in and explore these three powerful stones and all their rich, exciting symbolism, drawn from their colors and histories.

Related: Here’s Exactly What Your Month's Birthstone Says About Your Personality

What Is the Primary Birthstone for August?

August's primary birthstone is the peridot. This gem is beloved by both experts and enthusiasts for its unique properties and gorgeous appearance.

Sacha Jarmon, a gemologist and co-founder of Love Saro, describes it as "one of our favorite healing stones—often referred to as 'The Stone of Joy and Harmony.'" She particularly recommends it for those seeking balance, noting that "it promotes harmony for mind, body and spirit."

Matt Harris, a certified pearl specialist at Matt Harris Designs, offers a vivid description that captures the essence of this gem.

"Peridot, to me, is Mother Nature's way of reminding us of a green meadow on a sunny summer day. It has a calm, inviting, warm feel," he says.

He also adds a bit of history, mentioning that "the Egyptians called it 'the gem of the sun.'" This connection to nature and warmth makes Peridot a perfect representation of August's hot, sunny days.

August Birthstone Color Peridot, the birthstone for August

iStock

Peridot, the primary birthstone of August, is a yellow-green color.

Related: Wine Day, Waffle Day and Left-Handers Day! Check Out All of the Wild August Holidays

Is the August Birthstone Rare?

According to Jarmon, "Peridot is classified as a semi-precious gemstone as it is more common/less rare than its precious gemstone friends."

However, she notes an important caveat: "Like with any gemstone, richer, more consistent hues especially in larger sizes will be very rare and highly sought after."

"Peridot is pretty accessible and not as rare as some other birthstones, but as with many gems, exquisite samples can be extremely rare," Harris echoes. "Collectors look for perfectly clear gems that are well cut with a vivid green hue. Once you see a perfect peridot it's hard to forget it."

Interestingly, there's a particularly rare variety of peridot that comes from an unexpected source. Harris explains: "A particular type of peridot called 'pallasitic peridot' is extremely rare because it arrives on Earth via meteorites. These peridot are known for their needle-like inclusions and are the same as Earth peridot except that they are missing the element nickel. A faceted parasitic peridot is often called 'palladot'."

This extraterrestrial connection adds an element of cosmic wonder to the August birthstone.

Related: People Born in March Actually Have 2 Birthstones—Find Out What They Are and the Meaning Behind Each Stone

Meaning and History of Peridot

Peridot boasts a rich history and a variety of meanings across different cultures. Jarmon paints a broad picture of its significance: "With its regal, volcanic and extraterrestrial heritage, peridot has one of the most interesting histories of all the birthstones, which only accentuates the natural beauty of this stunning green gem."

She goes on to explain its use in holistic practices.

"Peridot is often used in Eastern healing to harmonize mind, body and spirit," Jarmon says. "It is a symbol of good luck and connection to nature, also often used as a substitution for emerald with similar healing qualities, including aiding in restful sleep, lung and heart health."

Harris adds to this, detailing some of the beliefs associated with peridot throughout history: "Some ancient civilizations believed peridot protected them against bad dreams and evil spirits. Since peridot is often associated with the sun, it carries a host of meanings and healing properties. It offers protection, prosperity, positive energy to its wearer and even stimulates the heart chakra."

He also notes a modern belief: "Many believe that meditating with or wearing peridot will also boost your confidence."

Gary Yost on Unsplash

The gem's history is intertwined with royalty and ancient civilizations. "Interestingly, Cleopatra was a huge fan,” shares Harris. “You'll see her often depicted in emeralds, but many of us feel that her coveted emerald collection may have actually been peridot!"

He also recounts a fascinating tale of peridot mining in ancient times: "The ancient Egyptians mined peridot on an island called Zabargad (also known as St. John's) Island. They believed that the gem would disappear during the day, which means they preferred to mine at night (likely because the gem would sparkle in the moonlight). Mining there, especially at night, was a challenge due to treacherous waters, reefs, pirates, and some even say sea monsters! The difficulty and mystery surrounding the process of mining peridot established it, as far back as 300 B.C., as one of the most mystical and fascinating gems in history. Peridot has added a bit of magic to the jewelry world ever since."

Peridot’s rich history and lore contribute to its enduring appeal as August's birthstone.

Related: April Birthstones: Learn the Meaning, Color, History

Where Is Peridot Found?

Peridot is found in various locations around the world, each source contributing to the gem's diversity. Jarmon provides an overview: "Our peridot is sourced primarily from Arizona and Thailand. Today, peridot is found around the world, with deposits discovered in China, Myanmar, Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam and the United States."

She also shares an interesting geological fact about a unique location: "In fact, there is a beach in Hawaii called 'Peridot Beach,' where the sand actually shimmers green due to ancient lava flows which deposited the gemstone into the sand after volcanic eruptions. How cool is that?"

Harris highlights a particularly noteworthy location in the United States: "Arizona is famous for peridot. The town near the mine on the San Carlos Apache Reservation is actually named 'Peridot.’"

Related: May Birthstones: Learn All About Their Symbolism, Color and History

Meaning and History of Spinel Spinel

iStock

August’s second gemstone, spinel, is a more recent addition. Jarmon explains: "August is one of only three months to have three birthstones, along with June and December. Spinel was likely added to the list because of its beauty, durability, affordability and wide range of colors."

She also notes its metaphysical properties: "Metaphysically, spinel is widely used to treat a wide range of physical symptoms to heal the physical body—e.g. viral/bacterial infections, speed up the healing process for wounds, etc."

"The most recently added modern birthstone for August is spinel which was only added in 2016," says Harris. He describes its versatility: "Spinel is the chameleon of the gem world, born in all sorts of colors, including blue, red, black, orange, purple and pink. Red spinels are often considered as a replacement for rubies."

He also shares an example of spinel's practical applications in jewelry design: "I personally use black spinel in a particular pearl necklace design that I used to make with black diamonds. It's almost impossible to tell the difference, but now I can provide the same look that used to be $8000 for only $600!"

Harris explains that some spinel colors are rarer than others: "Spinel has a bit of a split personality when it comes to rarity. Some colors, like vibrant reds and blues, are rare and prized by collectors. Others are more common. The higher the chromium content, the stronger the red hue."

He adds that "Spinel can be found in Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Madagascar, Afghanistan and Tanzania."

Related: June Actually Has 3 Birthstones—Here's What They Are and What They Symbolize

Meaning and History of Sardonyx Sardonyx

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The third August birthstone, sardonyx, has a long and intriguing history.

"Historically, sardonyx dates back to Roman times, used commonly to seal official documents with signet-style rings,” says Jarmon. "Roman soldiers would wear sardonyx into battle believing it would provide them protection and bring them victory. During Renaissance times, this gemstone was associated with eloquence. Public speakers would wear it to aid clear thinking and expression, similar to how we use aquamarine.”

She also describes its believed healing properties: "Similar to peridot and spinel, sardonyx has been used for its physical healing properties—specifically for healing lungs and bones. It is said to effectively aid in regulation of fluids as well as cell metabolism, as well as strengthen the immune system."

Harris provides a vivid description of the stone: "Sardonyx is the sophisticated cousin of onyx with its interesting layers of sard and onyx, creating red and white bands. Think of it as nature's striped candy. It's a type of chalcedony, which is just a fancy word for quartz with character."

Sardonyx is not a particularly rare stone, explains Harris: "Sardonyx is fairly common. But each piece is definitely uniquely different, making every piece of sardonyx jewelry rare in a way!" He adds that "Sardonyx can be found in India, Brazil, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, Germany, and even in the good old USA. The finest examples of sardonyx, which display sharp contrasts between layers, are mostly found in India.”

Each of these three gemstones—peridot, spinel and sardonyx—brings its own unique beauty, history, and meaning. If you’re born in August, you have a wide range of options for birthstone jewelry to wear and appreciate.

Related: Your Best Summer Travel Destination, Based on Zodiac Sign

Sources

• Matt Harris is a certified pearl specialist at Matt Harris Designs.
• Sacha Jarmon is a gemologist and the founder of LOVE SARO.

In September 1975, Happy Days began its third season with a major change. The ABCsitcom was now filmed using a three-camera setup in front of a live studio audience—a format that would help to define the series. But the real turning point came months earlier.

During Season 2, the episode “Fonzie’s Getting Married” was filmed on a soundstage in front of an audience as an experiment. The opening credits to the January 1975 episode featured a voiceover from series star Tom Bosleyto announce, "Tonight’s Happy Days was filmed before a live audience."

“Fonzie’s Getting Married” featured several firsts. With a studio audience along for the laughs, Fonzie (Henry Winkler) shows off his signature fist-bump jukebox move for the first time.  In the first scene of the episode, he spontaneously shuts off a Fats Domino song playing at Arnold’s Drive-in to announce he's getting married.

After Richie (Ron Howard) asks him if he is serious, the Fonz replies, “You guys hear me turn off the jukebox?... Did you hear what was on the jukebox? Fats Domino! Would I turn off 'The Fats'?"

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Unfortunately for Fonzie, his fiancée, Maureen (Nellie Bellflower) is later identified as an exotic dancer known as “The Lone Stripper.” Bosley’s Howard Cunningham recognizes her from a hardware convention, tells Fonzie, and it’s goodbye engagement.

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The rest of Season 2 continued with the single camera format and canned laughter, but Happy Days was forever changed.

The positive response to the “Fonzie’s Getting Married” episode led to a permanent change as Winkler’s character became a bigger part of the show.

Winkler looked back at the change in an essay for The Guardian.

“At first, we shot it like a movie, with one camera at a studio – Arnold’s diner was on the back lot,” he shared. “Then, in 1975, we started filming before a live audience. On Monday morning, we’d do a read of the new script… At 4 p.m. on Friday, they brought in an audience of 300, and we did the episode, foibles and all. The writers then feverishly rewrote the things that didn’t work, giving us notes over dinner, which we’d memorize while getting into costume and makeup. Then at 7 p.m., we filmed before a new audience, barreling through until about 1 a.m., by which time the crowd were falling asleep.”

ABC Photo Archives / Getty Images

In July 2026, Happy Days stars Winkler, Don Most and Anson Williams appeared at Fanboy Expo, where they recalled co-star Ron Howard’s temporary panic over the move to a live audience.

“Donny, Henry, and I, we had done theater, and we were excited about this, because every Friday was like opening night, you know, a little nervous, live audience,” Williams revealed to the audience. “Ron Howard, on the other hand, had never done a stage show.”

“There’s a wardrobe room, and there’s Ron in the corner, shaking, back turned to me,” he added of filming for the first “live” Happy Days. “And I go, ‘Ron!’ And he just walks out. And kills that night! He found out he’s really good at the theater.”

Related: Henry Winkler Reveals How Ron Howard Saved Him on His First Day of ‘Happy Days’