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Snickers Is Hiring Its First-Ever 'Chill Officer,' Leaving Fans Double-Taking

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 6:54pm

How are you staying cool this summer weekend? Ice-cold treats always help.

Back in the day, Snickers fans would freeze their candy bars as a DIY dessert alternative, once we got tired of eating the same old ice cream over and over again. Then came the official Snickers Ice Cream Bars, which made things much easier for consumers.

More recently, the beloved candy brand unveiled Ice Cream Minis, and coinciding with the launch is Snickers' search for a newly created position at the company: a so-called "Chief Online Chill Officer."

Snickers has taken to social media this week to promote its exciting new employment opportunity — a paid, two-week mini-gig where one fan will "earn an unofficial C-sweet title to help bring more chill, fun and a little deliciousness to people's feeds," according to a recent news release.

"We're looking for someone who not only embodies chill but can spot when the internet is un-chill," reads the caption of Snickers' Instagram post earlier this week. "Sound like you? Head to the link in our bio and share a video telling us why you're right for this opportunity."

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Fans have since commented on the post to express their intrigue and excitement. "Chillest girl clocking in," wrote one Instagram user, while another person commented, "My husband needs to apply!!"

Snickers reiterated the opportunity with a fresh Instagram post on Friday, July 31, asking in the caption: "Do you have what it takes to be our first ever Chief Online Chill Officer?" One excited user commented, "is this allowed? did the scientists say it was okay to pack that many peanuts and delicious ice cream into a mini snackable treat?! please hire me."

Per the company, the "Chief Online Chill Officer" title comes with plenty of opportunities to sample the brand's five Minis flavors. Throughout their experience, the "officer" will create social content and vlogs, capture behind-the-scenes moments and give followers an inside look at the "chillest experience of the summer."

Applications close August 4 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Find out more here.

1979 Rock Track, With an Unforgettable Guitar Solo, Became a Pop Culture Hit

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 6:45pm

Jefferson Starshipwas known for having multiple changes in its career, and after the departure of two main singers, the track "Jane" marked a major shift in their sound for the years that followed.

Formerly known as Jefferson Airplane, the rock band found itself at a crossroads in 1978 before the release of their fifth album, Freedom at Point Zero. VocalistMarty Balin, who had penned many hit soft rock ballads, had stopped touring with the band and later left entirely. To top it off, vocalist Grace Slick also decided to drop out of the band, feeling she was too old to be a rock star and touring.

Instead of the band calling it quits, they rebranded themselves and took a gamble on singer Mickey Thomas, who fronted the band, Elvin Bishop. Thomas told Something Else in 2013 that he was flattered to have gotten the call after leaving the band, but was still hesitant. After meeting with them, he decided months later to join them: “As crazy as this is, and as unlikely as it would be that this would work, there’s something there."

"Jane" would become a perfect showcase of Thomas's talents and the needed shift in Jefferson Starship's music. It was penned by bassist David Freiberg and co-written by songwriter Jim McPherson, with the track having been McPherson's biggest claim to fame in his career before his death in 1985.

Freiberg would explain that he and McPherson were going for the style of the "Rolling Stones baroque period of the '60s," with guitarist Craig Chaquico chiming in that the bassist created a "great" hard rock arrangement. The bassist would also admit the track may or may not have been about an ex who wasn't named Jane.

The track would gain notoriety among fans for its long guitar solo that Chaquico argued over with their manager at the time. Their manager wanted to cut it short, believing it wouldn't do well over the radio.

"[H]e came in with a stopwatch and [argued] the guitar solo was too long. It will never get played on the radio, right?" he explained to Something Else in 2012. “The band backed me up, and we left the solo the way that it is, but our manager swore it would never be a hit. So, every time I hear it on the radio, it puts a smile on my face, because I knew I had to fight for every second of it! … We pushed the envelope, and it actually did get played – thank God.”

He even recalls having run into some of the members of Metallica, who praised the track for the solo and for having never been done before on the radio. The track was indeed a hit when it landed at No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and No. 6 on Cash Box.

"Jane" would end up getting a resurgence decades later when it was used as the opening theme of the horror filmCocaine Bear and in Paul Rudd's 2001 film Wet Hot American Summer. Jefferson Staship's "Jane" also became well-known among wrestling fans as it became the entrance music for All Elite Wrestling star Orange Cassidy.

Related: 1973 Rock Song, Reimagined for a Hit Film, Is Still a Generational Favorite 53 Years Later

1975 Rock Song, With 19-Year-Old Singer, Is Still a Powerful Hit 51 Years Later

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 6:36pm

By the time the Bay City Rollers released "Bye, Bye, Baby" in early 1975, the Scottish band had become one of the biggest pop sensations in Britain.

Leading the charge was Les McKeown, who was just 19 years old when the single was released. His energetic vocal performance helped transform the song into one of the group’s signature recordings, and more than five decades later, it remains one of the defining hits of the glam rock era.

Although many fans associate the song exclusively with the Bay City Rollers, it began life several years earlier.

Originally recorded by The Four Seasons in 1965, "Bye, Bye, Baby (Baby Goodbye)" was reimagined by the Rollers with a brighter, more youthful sound.

"I had just turned eighteen, in 1974, when I was asked to join the band, and at the time they were already considered to be a one-hit wonder band, because the only hit they’d had was in 1971," McKeown told Maximum Volumes. "But I was young and I wanted to join up with a professional outfit, so I joined up with the Bay City Rollers and they had these – what I think – were brilliant songwriters, Phil Coulter and Bill Martin. And our first song was called Remember, and I had to re-voice that because their old singer was on the original song, but they hadn't released that."

"Bye, Bye, Baby" followed suit. Driven by stomping rhythms, infectious harmonies, and McKeown's charismatic lead vocal, the band's version introduced the song to an entirely new generation.

Listeners embraced it immediately.

The single climbed to No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart, becoming the Bay City Rollers' first chart-topper in Britain. It spent six weeks at No. 1, confirming that the group was no one-hit wonder and helping fuel the wave of "Rollermania" that soon spread across Europe and beyond.

"We were going to all these fantastic, exotic places," McKeown told Creamyears later. "We were just these young guys from the wrong side of town in Edinburgh and we didn’t expect to be travelling the world in first class. But we did and we loved it."

The success also cemented McKeown's place as the face of the band.

Having joined the Bay City Rollers just two years earlier, the teenage singer quickly became one of the most recognizable pop stars of the mid-1970s. His distinctive voice and stage presence helped define the group's biggest hits, including "Give a Little Love," "Summerlove Sensation," and the international smash "Saturday Night."

Despite changing musical trends, "Bye, Bye, Baby" has remained a fan favorite.

Its singalong chorus and exuberant energy have kept it in regular rotation on oldies and classic hits radio, while the song continues to feature prominently on compilations celebrating the soundtrack of the 1970s.

"I perform all over the world, and wherever I go, the Bay City Rollers goes with me in spirit and in voice," McKeown told Billboard in 2016. "I love singing the iconic songs that I was a big part of and look forward to continuing to make new memories with the fans."

More than 50 years after it topped the charts, "Bye, Bye, Baby" still captures the infectious excitement that made the Bay City Rollers a worldwide phenomenon. Featuring a 19-year-old Les McKeown at the height of his youthful charisma, the song remains one of the band's most powerful and enduring hits.

Related: 1975 Soft Rock Ballad, Lasting Nearly 7 Minutes, Became a Breakthrough Hit

Iconic '80s Rocker Cancels 2026 Tour

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 6:23pm

A long-awaited celebration of one of hard rock's biggest eras will have to wait.

Adrian Vandenberg announced on July 31 that he has canceled his upcoming 2026 U.S. tour while receiving treatment for a bacterial infection. In a personal statement, the former Whitesnake guitarist revealed that he is currently in the hospital and was strongly urged by medical specialists not to proceed with the tour.

The My Whitesnake Years Tour was scheduled to begin Aug. 3 in New Bedford, Massachusetts. The 18-date run would have continued through Aug. 23, when it was set to conclude in Atlanta.

Vandenberg said the infection needs immediate attention, though he assured fans that "things are fortunately moving in the right direction." He also noted that this is the first time he has canceled a show or tour in his roughly 60-year career as a performing guitarist.

To show how unusual the decision was, Vandenberg recalled suffering severe facial injuries in a New York traffic accident in 1987. Despite the accident, he still performed at a sold-out Madison Square Garden show that evening.

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Vandenberg's management and U.S. agency are now working to reschedule the tour. Replacement dates have not yet been announced.

The My Whitesnake Years Tour was designed to honor Vandenberg's 12 years with Whitesnake. Guitarist Vinnie Moore and bassist and vocalist Marco Mendoza were also scheduled to appear, bringing music connected to UFO, Thin Lizzy and their other projects to the shows.

Before joining Whitesnake in late 1986, the Dutch guitarist found international success with his own group, Vandenberg. Its rock ballad "Burning Heart" reached No. 39 on the Billboard Hot 100, according to his official biography.

Vandenberg later played the guitar solo on Whitesnake's No. 1 hit "Here I Go Again" and contributed to albums including Slip of the Tongue and Restless Heart. His planned tour would have revisited songs from that part of his career, including "Still of the Night" and "Here I Go Again."

Although Vandenberg has not provided a timeline for his return, he ended his update with a hopeful message to fans: "See you guys soon!"

Related: 1984 Hit, Once Spent 30 Weeks Charting, Ranked 'Worst Song' of All Time

Martha Stewart’s 'Cloud-Like' Down Comforter Makes Every Night Feel Like a Luxury Hotel Stay 

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 6:15pm

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You don't need to book a luxury hotel stay to enjoy that crisp, cozy, five-star feeling at home. Sometimes a simple bedding refresh —whether it's fresh sheets or a plush new comforter — is all it takes to make your bedroom feel warm and inviting. Thanks to author and lifestyle mogul Martha Stewart's home brand, you don't have to spend a fortune to bring that hotel-quality comfort home.

The Martha Stewart Luxury Goose Feather and Down Comforter at Amazon is a beautiful option to consider if you want to feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud. Right now, the king size is available for just $76 at Amazon, down from $90 — which is also its lowest price in 30 days.

Martha Stewart Luxury Goose Feather and Down Comforter, $76 (was $90) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Whether you have a twin, queen or king bed, there’s a size designed to fit your space.The comforter can be used as a cozy standalone layer or tucked inside a duvet cover for a more elevated look. It comes in a variety of sizes ranging from a 68-inch by-90-inch twin option to a roomy 106-inch by-90-inch king. 

It’s available in three warmth levels: light warmth, all season medium warmth, and extra warmth. You can easily can choose what best fits your sleep style and the season. Prices vary by size and warmth level, with the extra warmth king size reaching $93. Currently, the all season medium warmth in king size offers the best value at just $76. 

This comforter gets its fluffiness from a feather-and-down fill that adds softness and lightweight warmth. It’s also hypoallergenic and Oeko-Tex certified, meaning it has been tested to ensure it’s free from harmful substances. 

One thoughtful detail is the sewn-through box construction, which helps keep the fill evenly distributed throughout the comforter. The stitched sections help prevent the down filling from shifting or clumping, so the comforter maintains its shape over time. 

Shoppers highlighted its cozy feel and look. One reviewer praised its “cloud-like look,” while another called it “incredibly soft” with a “luxurious hotel-quality look and feel.” A third shopper said it was “comfortable” and the “perfect” weight for year-round use.

Keep in mind that the comforter arrives vacuum-sealed, so it may look flatter when first unpacked. Simply shake it out and allow up to 72 hours for it to fully expand, or toss it in the dryer on low heat for about 15 minutes to help restore its loft. For long-lasting softness, professional dry cleaning is recommended.

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Related: Walmart's 'Buttery-Soft' 7-Piece Floral Bed in a Bag Nails the Coquette Aesthetic of Designer Brands for Less

Give your bedroom the cozy upgrade it deserves with the Martha Stewart Luxury Goose Feather and Down Comforter. Head to Amazon now to shop the deal before it sells out!

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Why Anson Mount Says 'Star Trek' Gave Him the Courage to Start a Family

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 6:09pm

Actor Anson Mount is revealing how landing the role of Captain Christopher Pike seven years ago has impacted his life.

During a July 2026 interview with Decider, while promoting Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' current fourth season, Mount referenced that he first began filming as Pike for the second season of Star Trek: Discovery, which aired in 2019.

"I think every role that you've spent time with this long changes you to some degree," said Mount, who began starring in Star Trek: SNW during its debut season in 2022.

He then shared that being a part of the Star Trek franchise enabled him to feel stable enough in his acting career to have children.

"What's meant the most is this franchise having enough faith in me to give me a job that kind of handed me the wherewithal and the courage to have a family. Because that's not a given as an actor. And it certainly helped my career," said Mount, who shares two children, Clover, 4, and Violet, 1, with his wife, Darah Trang.

In addition, the Hell On Wheels star said that he believed Star Trek: SNW has bettered his acting.

"I think I got better both in terms of my performance and in terms of life in general, just being able to say, 'Okay, you know what? Just make the decision. Do it.' Whatever that thing might be, and you'll figure it out. We edit ourselves too often before it's written," continued the 53-year-old.

In a July 2026 interview on The Movie Podcast, Mount also shared he had a deep appreciation for his Star Trek: SNW castmates, who include Celia Rose Gooding,Ethan Peck,Rebecca Romijn,Christina Chong, Paul Wesley, Carol Kane, Melissa Navia, and Jess Bush.

"I think that the great thing about our cast is that the producers managed to hire a group of well-functioning adults. That is never a given because you're going on so little information," said Mount during the interview. "You just never know if you're going to get a wild card in there, but everybody came in prepared to take care of their characters, department, to take care of themselves, and to be good collaborators. And the show benefited from those casting choices."

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

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 5:46pm

If you were notified about the 2023 Comcast Xfinity data breach, you may be eligible for a cash payment.

But you'll need to file a claim before the deadline.

Comcast has agreed to a $117.5 million class action settlement to resolve claims related to a cybersecurity incident in October 2023 that exposed the personal information of millions of customers. While Comcast denies any wrongdoing, the company agreed to the settlement to avoid continued litigation.

The settlement covers people who received a notice around Dec. 18, 2023, informing them that their personal information may have been compromised in the breach. Eligible customers can submit a claim for:

  • Up to $10,000 for documented out-of-pocket losses related to the breach.
  • Compensation for lost time spent addressing issues related to the incident.
  • An alternative cash payment for those who don't have documented losses. While the amount isn't guaranteed, current estimates suggest eligible claimants could receive around $50, depending on how many people file claims.
  • Settlement class members are also eligible to receive identity theft protection and restoration services once the settlement receives final approval.

The deadline to submit a claim is Sept. 14, 2026. Claims can be filed online or by mail through the official settlement administrator. Customers who no longer have their notification letter can use the settlement website's ID lookup tool to determine whether they're eligible.

The court's final approval hearing is currently scheduled for Aug. 5, 2026. If the settlement is approved, eligible claimants who submit valid claims will receive benefits according to the settlement terms.

For more information or to file a claim, eligible customers can visit the official settlement website: Comcast Data Breach Settlement website.

RELATED: Costco Is Selling Fly By Jing’s Cult-Favorite Chili Crisp Noodles for Half Price

Families Who Eat Dinner Together Tend To Have This One Thing in Common

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 5:43pm

Gathering around the dinner table to discuss your day as you share a delicious meal is a cherished family tradition. But in our fast-paced world, carving out time to eat dinner together isn't always feasible, especially when you factor in work schedules, traffic and after-school activities. Realistically, you might not be able to schedule a daily meal with your loved ones, but psychologists say families who eat dinner together tend to have something very important in common.

Since it can take a colossal effort to coordinate a time when everyone is free, many families inevitably end up eating separately or reheating leftovers for anyone who didn't make it home in time. But the benefits of dinners together are numerous.

To better understand family mealtime psychology, we consulted one psychologist and one therapist to explain why parents and kids eating together is important. For starters, they explored the science of mealtime and shared several proven benefits of eating with your loved ones.

Since quality is often more important than quantity, we asked the pros to weigh in on how often you should ideally have a family dinner. While they were at it, the pros explored the difference between passive eating and intentional connection and also offered up some conversation starters to use at your next shared meal.

Related: We Asked 3 Psychologists What Daily Habit Brings Families Closer Together—They All Said the Same Thing

The 'One Thing': Why Families Who Eat Together Are More Connected

It may sound simple, but eating dinner together regularly creates the space for you to connect with your family.

"While the meal itself matters, it's the consistency of coming together, free from distractions, to listen, talk and check in with one another that strengthens relationships over time," Samantha Quigneaux, LMFT, a family therapist and the National Director of Family Therapy Services at Newport Healthcare, says. "These small, everyday moments build trust, encourage emotional openness and help children and teens feel seen, supported and secure."

Even when life is busy, prioritizing connection sends the message that "every family member belongs and their experiences matter," she notes.

Part of the reason families connect so much over dinner is the fact that sitting down for a meal helps regulate your nervous system, shares Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, Ed.D., LPC, BCN, a therapist, certified school psychologist and the author of The Dysregulated Kid.

"When the nervous system is calm, conversation flows, trust grows and children feel understood," she explains. "Taking a stressed, overwhelmed nervous system out of the equation resets the room. Families who make dinner intentional actually create small moments of regulation that reinforce calm connection every day."

The Science of Mealtime: 5 Proven Benefits of Family Dinners 1. Improved social and communication skills

Children learn a lot about socializing and communicating at the dinner table.

"Dinner conversations teach negotiation, patience and listening—skills that are impossible to learn if your nervous system is dysregulated,” Dr. Capanna-Hodge says.

Quigneaux adds that children develop the skills of self-expression and listening while eating dinner with their families.

"Over time, these everyday interactions help build confidence, emotional awareness and healthy communication habits that extend well beyond the home. Connection grows one conversation at a time," she says.

2. Greater sense of stability and security

The world can feel hectic and unpredictable, but family dinners can offer much-needed consistency.

"Consistent routines foster emotional safety, reduce stress and help children feel grounded, particularly during periods of change, uncertainty or transition," Quigneaux says. "Children thrive when they know what they can count on and who they can count on."

3. More mindful living  

When you're slowing down and putting distractions aside for a meal together, you practice being fully present with each other.

"These moments of intentional connection promote gratitude, strengthen relationships and remind us that sometimes the most meaningful part of the day happens around the table," Quigneaux notes. "The most important thing served at dinner isn't the meal. It's the connection."

4. Higher academic engagement

When kids have a safe space to engage with their families, they tend to feel more supported academically and feel motivated to succeed.

“When the nervous system is regulated at home, children can focus, problem-solve and learn at school," Dr. Capanna-Hodge shares.

5. Earlier recognition of mental health concerns

A family that spends quality time together is more tuned into every family member's mental well-being.

"When families gather consistently, parents are more likely to notice subtle changes in mood, energy, appetite, social engagement or behavior," Quigneaux states. "These small observations can open the door to important conversations and early support before concerns become more significant. You can't notice what you don't have the opportunity to see."

Related: 4 Food-Related Phrases a Child Psychologist Is Begging Parents and Grandparents To Stop Saying

Quality vs. Quantity: How Often Do You Actually Need To Eat Together?

How often should families eat together? Quality might actually be more important than quantity in this case.

"While more shared meals generally create more opportunities for connection, quality matters more than perfection," Quigneaux explains. "Families don't need to have dinner together every night to experience meaningful benefits. The meal also does not have to be dinner. Two or three intentional meals each week can strengthen communication if everyone is present, engaged and free from distractions like phones or television."

Per Dr. Capanna-Hodge, consistency matters more than perfection, so it's OK if you don't get it right immediately.

"Each calm, connected meal helps empty the stress cup, builds emotional resilience and reinforces that sense of feeling cared for or loved," she states.

Related: 60 Fun Things To Do With Grandkids—Indoor, Outdoor and Sleepover Activities

Passive Eating vs. Intentional Connection

When it comes to family dinners, there's a difference between passive eating and intentional connection.

"Passive eating occurs when family members eat separately, scroll through devices, watch television or rush through meals without engaging with one another," Quigneaux notes. "Over time, passive eating can contribute to emotional distance, reduce opportunities for meaningful communication and make it more difficult for parents to recognize when children or teens are struggling emotionally."

On the other hand, intentional connection occurs when you treat mealtime as "protected family time," put the devices away and ask thoughtful questions while practicing active listening.

"These interactions help strengthen attachment, improve emotional regulation, reinforce trust and foster resilience by reminding children they have a reliable support system at home," the therapist shares.

Related: 8 Toddler Lunch Ideas Your Kiddo Will Actually Love—Seriously

9 Conversation Starters To Use at Your Next Family Dinner

If you're passionate about fostering emotional resilience in children or connecting with teenagers at dinner, these family dinner conversation starters can come in handy.

As a general rule, Dr. Capanna-Hodge recommends "simple, open-ended prompts that help kids feel safe and engaged."

Here's a list to get you started:

  1. What’s one thing that made you laugh today?
  2. Did anything surprise you today or make you think differently?
  3. What was the hardest part of your day?
  4. What was the best part of your day and what made it meaningful?
  5. Who did something kind that you noticed today?
  6. If you could teach me something today, what would it be?
  7. What's one thing you're looking forward to this week?
  8. What's something someone did recently that made you feel appreciated, supported or cared for?
  9. If our family could go on an adventure anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would we go and what would we do?

Up Next:

Related: 3 Psychologists Agree This Is the Most 'Underrated' Positive Parenting Habit

Sources:

Book Lovers Are Rediscovering 'The Odyssey,' and Walmart's $10 Deluxe Edition Belongs on Every Shelf

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 5:30pm

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Christopher Nolan's adaptation of The Odyssey has sparked a fresh wave of interest in one of history's most influential stories. Whether you're revisiting Homer's epic or finally seeing what all the hype is about, there's never been a better time to dive into the legendary tale of gods, monsters, and Odysseus' unforgettable journey home.

If you're ready to add it to your reading list, Walmart currently has the Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition of The Odyssey on sale for 49% off, bringing the price down from $19 to just $10. It's an excellent opportunity to pick up this beautifully designed edition at a fraction of the usual cost. One reviewer described it as “excellent,” praising the “perfect price” and noting that it was “delivered in a timely manner.”

The Odyssey Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition, $10 (was $19) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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This 560-page paperback features Robert Fagles' acclaimed modern translation, celebrated for making the ancient text feel both lyrical and approachable for today's readers. His work earned the PEN/Ralph Manheim Medal and a 1996 Academy Award in Literature, making it one of the most respected English translations available.

The story follows Odysseus' decade-long journey home after the Trojan War, filled with mythical creatures, impossible obstacles, and moments that have shaped literature for centuries. At its core, it's a timeless story about perseverance and resilience. One shopper summed it up perfectly, writing, “This is a beautiful classic about the journey through life and the problems that we face through the journey.”

Related: Fans of ‘The Odyssey’ Will Love Amazon’s ‘Dangerously Charming’ $30 Ceramic Book Vase

This deluxe edition also offers more than just the text itself. It includes an insightful introduction and extensive commentary from renowned classicist Bernard Knox, giving readers helpful historical context and a deeper understanding of the epic. Thoughtful design touches like French flaps and deckle-edged pages make it feel especially special.

For book lovers, it's also the kind of edition that's meant to be displayed. The deluxe design looks beautiful on a bookshelf or coffee table, making it a meaningful gift for readers, literature fans, or anyone building a classic book collection. It feels far more collectible than a standard paperback while remaining surprisingly affordable.

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Whether you're discovering The Odyssey for the first time or adding a beautiful edition to your library, the Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition is an easy recommendation. And with Walmart's current 49% discount, you can bring home this literary classic for just $10.

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1986 Novel, Over 1,000 Pages Long, Was Just Named the Most Intense Horror Book of All Time

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 5:29pm

For a book to even be considered part of the horror genre, it needs to have a pretty high level of intensity throughout each chapter. However, some horror novels manage to be nearly unbearable for readers, never letting up on moments of dread and gore.

For instance, the publication Collider released a list of the "10 most intense horror books of all time," which spotlighted horrifying novels like 2000's House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski, The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka from 1915, and Swan Song by Robert R. McCammon, published in 1987. Collider gave the July 31 ranking's top spot to iconic horror author Stephen King's 1986 hit novel, It, known for taking readers on a 1000 plus page journey.

In a 2017 interview about the 2017 film adaptation of the first part of It, King shared details about writing the novel, which has a score of 4.24 out of 5 from 1,310,485 readers on Goodreads. He said that he "was about 30 years old" and "very ambitious" when he penned the book. In addition, he said he was interested in writing about a town with a dark history when coming up with It.

"I thought to myself, 'Well, I want to take an American town, bigger than a town, let's say a small city, and then have the whole thing be haunted.' I wanted the spirit of that creature, that entity that manifests itself most commonly as Pennywise the Clown, to have infected this whole town," said King during the behind-the-scenes interview. "It comes back every 27 years, and more kids disappear. They're like sacrifices. They're its food, but across the board, the adults on some level, they all understand what's happening, and it's part of this devil's deal that they've all agreed to."

In addition, King said it was important to him to implement common fears among children when writing the members of the Losers' Club.

"I was doing was trying to articulate the things that made me afraid as a kid. And I took a lot of the things that I loved when I was a kid. And I also took a lot of the things that I observed, not just in my own children, but in the kids that they played with," said King, who shares three adult children, Naomi King, Owen King, andJoe Hill, with his wife, Tabitha King.

King also shared he was purposeful in making sure It is defeated by the end of the lengthy book.

"I sometimes think in fiction of the make-believe that good doesn't get its just deserts, that a lot of times what we see as attractive is evil. And I like to see the balance, you know, between the two, I like to see good as strong," said King. "And I think that It projects that side of it. One of the things that I wanted to do in the novel, and in all of my novels, is to create characters who are fundamentally decent, by and large. And that way you don't want them to be spam in a cabin. You want them to live, and you want them to win."

Country Music Legend Tim McGraw Marks a Major First in His 33-Year Career

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 5:26pm

Tim McGrawmay have an illustrious 33-year career behind him, but the country music icon is still celebrating new firsts.

The country superstar, with over 30 No. 1 hits on the Billboard country charts, took the field at Fenway Park for the first time on July 30, 2026.

He shared the career milestone on social media, writing, "First time playing Fenway. Hopefully not the last. Thanks for an incredible night, Boston!!"

The 59-year-old “Live Like You Were Dying” crooner also shared several photos from the evening, including a glimpse of the massive crowd that packed Fenway Park in Boston for his first-ever performance at the iconic home of the Boston Red Sox.

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The night also featured special guests The Chicks, Lady A, 49 Winchester, and Timothy Wayne.

“The coolest thing is my dad never played Fenway,” a joyful McGraw told the sold-out crowd filling the ballpark, per Telegram. “He was playing before they had interleague play. So he never got to play Fenway Park. So I beat my dad in one thing.” 

McGraw's biological father was Tug McGraw, a star relief pitcher for the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies, a fact he didn't learn until he was 11, when he found his original birth certificate in his mother's closet. He saw "McGraw" crossed out with "Smith" written in, along with the occupation listed as "professional baseball player." Up until that point, he thought his stepfather, Horace Smith, was his dad.

Telegram noted that he also did something else his father never did: "hit the country-western music equivalent of a walk-off home run."

The memorable evening spanned McGraw’s greatest hits across his three-decade career, from his breakthrough 1994 hit “Indian Outlaw” and first No. 1 country single “Don’t Take the Girl” to fan favorites like his 1999 hit “My Best Friend," ending the night with the high-energy 2012 live favorite “Truck Yeah.”

Fans had a blast, as comments on the Instagram post read, "So damn good!" "Fantastic show," "Long overdue," and "Amazing Show-every song and all the openers, phenomenal, thank you!"

Fenway even commented, writing, "We liked it. We LOVED it. Thank you, @thetimmcgraw!! 🤠."

The country icon, who was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame earlier this year, launched his “Pawn Shop Guitar Tour” in July 2026, with the major North American headline tour spanning more than 30 dates. It kicked off on July 9 in Bethel, New York, and will run through September, wrapping up before his Las Vegas residency picks up for five nights in October and November.

Following his Boston achievement, he’ll be taking the stage in Syracuse, NY, on July 31.

And you never know what will happen during the tour, as his Friday, July 24 show welcomed a very special guest to the stage—his youngest daughter, Audrey McGraw. 

McGraw and wife Faith Hill, who married in 1996, are also parents to Gracie and Maggie McGraw.

Check out McGraw's full setlist from Fenway Park on July 30 (per Boston)

Acoustic:
  • Forget About Us
  • Just to See You Smile
  • Where the Green Grass Grows
  • My Best Friend
  • Down on the Farm
  • Don’t Take the Girl
Full band:
  • Real Good Man
  • Indian Outlaw
  • Something Like That
  • Pawn Shop Guitar
  • Southern Girl
  • Song for America
  • I Like It, I Love It (with The Chicks)
  • Felt Good on My Lips
  • Mexicoma
  • Live Like You Were Dying
Encore:
  • King Rodeo
  • The Cowboy in Me
  • Humble and Kind (Lori McKenna cover)
  • Truck Yeah

1984 Hit, Once Spent 30 Weeks Charting, Ranked 'Worst Song' of All Time

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 5:09pm

Being remembered as the worst song ever still means being remembered.

Black Lace's "Agadoo" became one of 1984's biggest novelty hits, reaching No. 2 in the United Kingdom and remaining in the Top 75 for 30 weeks. Nearly two decades later, however, a panel of music writers gave the party favorite a far less flattering distinction.

The story of "Agadoo" began long before Black Lace recorded it. The song was adapted from the French track "Agadou," recorded by Michel Delancray and Mya Symille in 1970, before Black Lace turned it into an English-language hit.

Released in 1984, the song paired a bright party sound with simple dance instructions involving pineapples, trees and coffee. Its easy-to-follow moves helped make it a natural fit for weddings, school discos and vacation resorts, even as BBC Radio 1 declined to include it on its playlist because it was considered "not credible."

The lack of radio support hardly stopped its success. "Agadoo" climbed to No. 2 on the UK chart, held back from the top spot by George Michael's "Careless Whisper." It also became the country's eighth-best-selling single of 1984 and eventually sold more than one million copies worldwide.

On Nov. 24, 2003, that commercial triumph received an unexpected footnote when a panel assembled for Q magazine named "Agadoo" the worst song of all time. The writers described it as "magnificently dreadful" and compared it to "the school disco you were forced to attend," according to This Day in Music.

The criticism only added to the song's unusual legacy. Black Lace re-recorded and rereleased "Agadoo" multiple times, while its original chorus and accompanying dance continued turning up at parties long after its first chart run.

For a track condemned by critics, "Agadoo" has proven remarkably difficult to leave behind. Its place in music history may not be especially prestigious, but after more than four decades, people are still talking about it.

Related: '60s Rock Legend, Named 'Best Guitar Player Alive,' Turns 90

1999 Debut Hit Earned a '90s Pop Icon Her First No. 1

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 5:00pm

In 1999, a debut single would become a career-defining hit that was the making of a global superstar.

Christina Aguilera released "Genie In a Bottle" on May 11, 1999, marking her first-ever single and the start of an award-winning music career that has spanned almost three decades. The track soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained for five weeks. In addition to becoming a chart-topper in the United States, "Genie In a Bottle" became a No. 1 hit in over 20 countries.

The song was part of Aguilera's self-titled debut album, which also hit the top spot on the charts. Reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200, the record sold 253,000 in its first week and spawned three chart-topping songs, per Billboard. Along with "Genie In a Bottle," megahits "What a Girl Wants" and "Come On Over Baby (All I Want Is You)" also rose to first position on the U.S. charts.

These hits helped to earn the singer her first Grammy Award, winning "Best New Artist" in 2000 at age 19.

In 2024, Aguilera reflected on her debut single in honor of its 25th anniversary.

"I think the biggest word that sums up that first record for me is grateful," she told Glamour. "Being thankful because it got my foot in the door. After 25 years, I'm so proud of it. I think to sustain anything for a lengthy amount of time takes a lot of work and dedication and passion. There are many elements that go into being able to build something."

Aguilera said that she still has "a lot of fun" playing the hit live, which is a staple in the singer's concert setlists.

"I interpret it differently, depending on which show or which tour or which genre we're going for, what audience I'm playing for, what country," she explained. "It's really fun to be able to creatively do different things with those songs from the first album."

Over the course of her career, Aguilera has won five Grammy Awards, earned five U.S. No. 1 singles, and has been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Related: '90s Pop Legend, With the Most U.K. No. 1 Albums, Announces Huge Tour News

1989 Rock Song, Released by One of the ‘Greatest Supergroups’ of All Time, Became a No. 1 Hit

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 5:00pm

In 1989, Bad English cemented its status in rock music after topping the charts with its hit "When I See You Smile."

Recognized byLouder Sound as one of the greatest rock supergroups of all time, the five-piece band featuring members of Journey and The Babys scored its first and only No. 1 hit after releasing its self-titled album.

After their debut single, "Forget Me Not," reached No. 45 on the Billboard Hot 100, lead singer John Waite, keyboardist Jonathan Cain, bassist Ricky Phillips, guitarist Neal Schon and drummer Deen Castronovo kept the momentum going by releasing their second single, "When I See You Smile."

Of the album's 13 tracks, 11 were written by the band, but the soft rock power ballad was not one of them.

Bad English in 1990 in Chicago, Il.

Paul Natkin/WireImage

Written by the iconic songwriter Diane Warren as a tribute to her father, who always supported her career, the song was initially underestimated by its own writer.

Warren only recognized its potential after music publishers and industry contacts responded enthusiastically, according toSongfacts.

The band also had reservations, believing it wasn't the right fit for them.

However, they ultimately agreed to include it on the album out of respect for A&R executive Don Grierson, who suggested the song be included.

"When I See You Smile' that was not what we should have been doing in Bad English," Waite told Classic Rock Revisited. "We kind of owed the A&R guys a favor. I thought we would just cut it and tell them we at least tried and then they would let us go our own way. When we recorded it, then it really did sound like a No. 1. It went to No. 1 everywhere – and I have to ask, what is wrong with being No. 1? At the same time, it was the wrong song for the band to rest its career on."

Lo and behold, "When I See You Smile" became Bad English's only No. 1 song on the Billboard Hot 100.

The song spent two weeks at No. 1 and remained on the Billboard Hot 100 for a total of 22 weeks.

Now regarded as Bad English's signature song, "When I See You Smile" has stood the test of time as the band's defining hit.

Related: '80s Rock Band, With No. 1 Hit Song, Ranked Among 'Best Supergroups' of All Time

Acclaimed Horror Author Reacts to His Book Being Banned in Utah

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 4:58pm

Stephen King is no stranger to having his books banned in schools; the legendary horror author holds the most titles that have been removed from schools in various states nationwide, according to PEN America.

Related: Stephen King Fans React to New Footage of His Debut Novel's 'Surprising' TV Adaptation

This time in Utah, it's his Different Seasons collection of short stories that's now on the banned-from-public-schools list, and King sent a statement to The Salt Lake Tribune about the matter. In it, he wrote, “The thing is this: I get letters from teenagers all the time that say things like, ‘I wasn’t a reader until I picked this book up.’ It’s true of The Stand and Pet Sematary, but even more true of Different Seasons.” He said of his 1982 published work that covers four novellas, three of which have been adapted into beloved feature films.

King pointed out, “Most of them have seen The Shawshank Redemption, and teens like a story about an innocent man escaping jail. The Body, made into the movie Stand By Me, is even more relatable to teens,” he said about how his books have played a role in being formative literature for generations. “All I’m saying is that if the book is in high school libraries, some bored teenager might pick it up and find out how good stories can be.”

Related: 1964 Classic Children's Book, Banned by Some Libraries, Among 'Best Books Ever' on Goodreads

While the book is reported by TheSalt Lake Tribune to be only banned from schools, these lists have been increasingly attempting to censor more and more; however, King is unfazed: “First and foremost, the book wasn’t banned. I assume it’s still in bookstores and many public libraries, because free expression is part of the American ethic.” and closed his statement with a warning about the times we live in, "Ordinarily I say ‘Go to a library or bookstore and find out what the suits don’t want you to read,’ but this case is a little different.”

Arnold Schwarzenegger Challenges Fans to 'Pump It Up' With Him

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 4:40pm

Arnold Schwarzenegger isn't just sitting around telling his fans what to do, but showing them. In an Instagram video in which he's seen using the bent-arm chest fly machine at Gold's Gym, he tells his followers how they can "pump it up" with him—for free.

"Just remember, let's pump it up," Schwarzenegger tells the camera. "Let's train, train, and train, and I will give my app away. You keep pumping, and you get all the money back."

"So pump, pump, pump," he added. "Join the Pump Club."

View this post on Instagram How the Money-Back Offer Actually Works

So what's the catch? Well, for one, you do have to pay something up front, as the Pump Club app isn't free. However, the Terminator star, who turned 79 on July 30, is offering a pretty sweet deal for those who have the motivation and time to follow through.

"Going forward, everyone will earn $50 back for completing their first program of the year and $50 their fourth program - a $100 discount - just for training," he writes in the caption. If that's not motivation enough, there's also $50 in savings just for joining between July 30 and August 9.

"This week, for my birthday, the app is only $100," he writes. "That’s right. Train all year, complete four programs, get all your money back."

Arnold's Pump Club began as a newsletter before it evolved into a podcast and then an app. While he's far from the only celebrity with a fitness app, his legendary passion for staying in shape, along with a proven record as a professional bodybuilder, gives him much more credibility than some others. Not to mention the fact that his app is 100% funded by Schwarzenegger himself.

'A Crusade, Not Just a Business': Arnold's Bigger Mission

"This is a crusade, not just a business," he wrote in a July 30 post. "I’ve been trying to get people to train for six decades, and I finally found something that works. If I can make millions of you train all year, I’ll take the loss."

Pump Club's birthday deal is Schwarzenegger's latest push to get people off the couch and into a routine that sticks. Whether or not you take him up on the offer, the message is one he's serious about: stop talking about training and start doing it.

Lindsay Clancy Breaks Down in Court as ER Doctor Details Efforts to Save 8-Month-Old Son Callan

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 4:34pm

Please Note: This article contains details about the deaths of children that some readers may find distressing.

Duxbury mother Lindsay Clancy, 35, who is on trial for the murders of her three children, Cora, 5, Dawson, 3, and Callan, 8 months, showed visible emotion in court Friday as a doctor testified about trying to save the eight-month-old on the day he and his two siblings died. It was the second time Clancy had shown emotion during the trial, after she also appeared to react during the first day of testimony, when the 911 call from the night of the killings was played for the jury.

On the fourth day of Clancy's murder trial in Plymouth, Massachusetts, Dr. Benjamin Kaufman described treating Callan in the emergency department at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Plymouth on Jan. 24, 2023.

Doctor Testifies About Life-Saving Efforts Made to Save 8-Month-Old Callan Clancy

Kaufman testified that Callan wasn't breathing when he arrived at the hospital. He and the medical team gave him epinephrine, performed chest compressions, and used a manual resuscitator to try to revive him, as per the video shared by CBS Boston. About 10 minutes later, Callan's heartbeat returned, but Kaufman said the infant never showed signs of brain function and never breathed on his own for the rest of his care. He was later flown to Boston Children's Hospital for a higher level of pediatric treatment.

According to a CourtTV livestream of the proceedings, Clancy appeared to cry as Kaufman testified, lowering her head and covering her face as her shoulders shook.

Jurors Visit the Duxbury Home Earlier in the Day Visitors stop by a makeshift memorial outside 47 Summer Street.

(Photo by Barry Chin/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)

Before Friday's testimony, jurors visited the Clancy family's former Duxbury home, retracing the stops her husband, Patrick, made that night, including a CVS pharmacy and an Italian restaurant where he picked up food at Lindsay's request.

The roughly 40-minute visit, conducted in small groups, also included the yard where Patrick found Lindsay after she jumped from a second-story window, a fall that left her paralyzed.

The Case Against Lindsay Clancy

Clancy does not dispute that she killed her three children. Her defense argues she was overmedicated and in the grip of postpartum psychosis at the time, and that she believed a voice was telling her to harm the children before taking her own life. Prosecutors argue she acted with intent, using the errands as a way to get Patrick out of the house so she could carry out the killings.

Patrick, who testified earlier in the trial, has said he's forgiven his ex-wife. If convicted, Clancy faces life in prison without parole. If she's found not criminally responsible, she would be committed to a state mental health facility.

The trial is expected to last several weeks.

If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or a suicidal crisis, you can reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. You can also chat with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline here.

Dairy Queen's New Blizzard Featuring a 'Superior Fall Flavor' Leaves Fans Declaring 'Immediately Yes'

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 4:29pm

Dairy Queen's August Blizzard of the Month is on its way—and fans declared "immediately yes" after a report revealed the fall flavor.

On Thursday, July 30, food blogger SnackWire reported via Instagram that a Caramel Apple Cheesecake Blizzard will soon hit DQ menus.

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"The Caramel Apple Cheesecake Blizzard is rumored to be Dairy Queen’s August Blizzard of the Month," they wrote. "It should be available in early August, and some locations have already started putting up promotional signage."

Additionally, SnackWire suggested that customers request a "custom item" they labeled a Caramel Apple Cheesecake Parfait, which appeared to be the Blizzard with the mix-ins on the top. They noted that not all stores participate and that Dairy Queen has not officially confirmed its August Blizzard of the Month.

A release date for the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Blizzard has not been announced. Parade has reached out to Dairy Queen for confirmation.

View this post on Instagram

In the comments, ice cream lovers shared their reactions to DQ's reported Blizzard of the Month for August. One Instagram user rejoiced, writing, "Finally, apples and not more pumpkin!!"

"The way I’d dip apple slices in that omg," another shared, as a third declared, "Immediately yes."

Someone else pointed out, "That Caramel Apple Cheesecake parfait looks (and probably tastes) like a SIN... 🤤🤤🤤."

A different follower commented, "I need this in my life."

Meanwhile, yet another Instagram user proclaimed, "Caramel apple is the superior fall flavor."

Dairy Queen's July Blizzard of the Month was Strawberry Mango Mochi, which was released alongside two other summer-inspired flavors.

What do you think of DQ's reported August Blizzard of the Month being the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Blizzard?

Next: Starbucks’ Fall 2026 Menu Causes a Stir After Fan-Favorite Drink Is Missing

Nationwide Recall Issued for Popular Gadget Sold at Walmart, Target, Amazon Due to Risk of Serious Injury or Death

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 4:28pm

OCOOPA, a company that makes rechargeable hand warmers and claims to produce “the #1 selling rechargeable hand warmer for 5 years in a row,” has issued a recall of over 1.5 million units of its popular products due to the risk of serious injury or death. 

Related: Highest-Level Recall Issued for Thousands of Pounds of Bacon, USDA Urges People ‘Not to Consume’ It

In a statement published on the brand’s website, the company said, “Customer safety is a top priority at OCOOPA. We are addressing a potential safety concern involving certain rechargeable hand warmers and are cooperating with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.” The federal agency further shared that “the lithium-ion battery in the recalled hand warmers can overheat and ignite, posing a risk of serious injury or death from fire and burn hazards.” 

Furthermore, according to the CPSC’s website, “OCOOPA Direct has received 1,480 reports of hand warmers overheating, resulting in 15 fires and 350 burn injuries, including the death of an 83-year-old consumer in San Diego, California in February 2026.” 

Related: Recall Issued for Blueberries, Mixed Berries Due to E. Coli Risk

Per the recall notice, the affected handwarmers were sold on the brand’s websites, Ocoopa.com and Ocoopa.net, as well as on the Amazon and Walmart websites. A separate recall notice was published by Target, indicating that the chain also sold the affected hand warmers. 

The following models of recalled hand warmers were sold between September 2018 and May 2026:

  • ZLS-118
  • ZLS-118S
  • ZLS-118D 
  • H01 and H01(PD)
  • UT3053(UT3 Lite) 
  • UT3056(UT4 Young)
View this post on Instagram

Related: Public Health Alert Issued for Fans’ ‘Favorite Frozen Burritos’ Sold at Costco

The brand’s hand warmers have garnered praise from consumers on social media for years, with Redditors sharing that they like the long battery life, that some models “can be used as a charger,” and stating, “I use this and it’s amazing.”

The CPSC urges consumers to stop using the recalled hand warmers immediately and to “contact OCOOPA Direct for a full refund in the form of an OCOOPA gift card or the original form of payment.” 

Next: Nationwide Recall Issued for Children’s Snack Sold at Target, Kroger, Meijer

Prolific Author's 1950 Debut Novel Was Named the Greatest Psychological Thriller of the 20th Century

Fri, 07/31/2026 - 4:19pm

While there are many modern authors who have established successful careers publishing thrillers, arguably, the most acclaimed mind-bending novels were written decades ago. For instance, Collider recently highlighted a few older novels with plenty of twists by releasing a ranking of "the 10 best psychological thriller books of the 20th century."

The list, published on July 31, included books like 1991's American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis, Rebeccaby Daphne du Maurier from 1938, 1962's A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess, and 1939's And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. According to Collider, the top 20th-century psychological thriller is 1950's Strangers on a Train by prolific American novelist Patricia Highsmith, who also wrote 1955's The Talented Mr. Ripley and died in 1995 at the age of 74. Collider reported that one of the main strengths of the book, which has a rating of 3.75 out of 5 from 40,119 readers on Goodreads, is its murderous, captivating antagonist, Bruno.

Strangers on a Train, Highsmith's first book, inspiredAlfred Hitchcock's 1951 film. In an interview with filmmaker François Truffaut, Hitchcock, who died in 1980 at 80, revealed that he had made the decision to adapt Highsmith's novel, which he described as "alright."

"I chose that," said Hitchcock.

During the interview, Hitchcock said he was "genuinely pleased with the general shape of the picture." However, he also said there were some aspects of the film he was unsatisfied with. The late director suggested that he wasn't pleased with Farley Granger's portrayal of Guy Haines and Ruth Roman's portrayal of Anne Morton. He said he believed that the film's script could have benefited from "stronger characterizations on the part of the leading people."

"I think the faults of Stranger in the Train lie in the lack of strengths of the two leading people. And not good enough final writing," said Hitchcock.

The 1951 film version of Stranger in the Train has a score of 98 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

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