Parade

The quiet community of Moscow, Id., never really made headlines—until Bryan Kohbergerbrutally killed four University of Idaho students in cold blood in the early morning hours of Nov. 13, 2022.

Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves and Ethan Chapin were all asleep when he entered their college rental home and stabbed them to death. Xana Kernodle (Chapin's girlfriend) valiantly fought back against the intruder, who was masked at the time, but ultimately succumbed to her injuries: She suffered numerous defensive wounds and was stabbed more than 50 times.

Kohberger was arrested on Dec. 30, 2022, and just before the case was set to go to trial, he agreed to a plea bargain: On July 23, 2025, Kohberger pleaded guilty to four counts of first-degree, premeditated murder, plus one count of burglary, in exchange for escaping the death penalty. He received four consecutive life sentences.

The crime was so disturbing that even law enforcement officers were unsettled by what they saw, and the victims' families and friends still have a slew of unanswered questions, not the least of which is, Why them?. While the new NetflixdocuseriesThe Idaho Murders: College Nightmare(that hits Netflix today, July 29) doesn't answer all of their questions, it does shed some light on certain aspects of the horrific crime that many hadn't known about before.

University of Idaho murder victims Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin

Idaho Statesman / Getty Images

SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox

One element missing from the docuseries is Kohberger's withdrawal of his guilty plea, which took place on Monday, July 27, 2026—long after the docuseries was completed.

Kohberger told the New York Times that he worked with Brent Turvey, a forensic scientist who analyzed the crime scene for Kohberger's defense team, and that Turvey believes that the evidence points to multiple suspects being involved in the slayings.

"A lot went wrong in those plea discussions. I really do want that to be heard. Unanswered questions seem to multiply with each piece of discovery unsealed," Kohberger said in a statement. "The intention is for all of those questions to be investigated and answered appropriately in a trial setting."

He also noted that he knows he faces capital punishment if he goes to trial and that he does not care if he gets the death penalty.

10 Bombshells From Netflix's Idaho Murders: College Nightmare DocumentaryA friend was at the house when police arrived—and had been wielding a knife.

Hunter Johnson, a friend of the victims, was at the house when police came. Johnson told police that one of the housemates told him that an intruder was in the home, so he came over. He grabbed a knife to protect himself and was who called the cops when he found them dead, with Kohberger long gone from the scene.

Related: Where Is Alex Murdaugh Now?

The crime scene was so brutal that some the local police chief needed mental health treatment afterward.

Moscow Police Department chief Anthony Dahlinger said he was home on his day off when the bodies were discovered and knew that when he got the call to come to a crime scene that it was going to be bad.

"Without going into too much detail, it was absolutely horrific," Dahlinger said. "That's something that nobody expects to ever see, and something that you can't unsee once you see it. I know not only myself, but every officer that was involved that day has had a hard time with that." He later admitted that he had to get professional help for the trauma from the case.

Roommates Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funke took eight hours to call the police, but authorities say that their response wasn't necessarily unusual.

Roommates Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funke were home at the time of the slayings and hid in a locked bedroom. Online sleuths and those uninvolved with the case frequently asked why the roommates took eight hours to call for help. Dahlinger acknowledged that the roommates were likely in shock and terrified to make any sounds for fear of the killer coming for them as well.

"Shock and trauma ... can impair judgment," he said. "It can impair thought processes."

Further, a coroner told the victims' families that even if someone called 911 sooner, the victims would not have survived their injuries.

Related: The 10 YouTubers Obsessed With the Nancy Guthrie Case—and Why Millions Are Watching

Dylan Mortensen told police she saw a man in the hallway and heard him speak to Kaylee Goncalves.

Mortensen said that she saw a lean, masked man in the hallway before she knew what was happening. Once she did, she and Funke hid in a locked bedroom, and Mortensen heard a man's voice tell Goncalves, "It's going to be OK. I'm gonna help you," but he that he didn't sound helpful or kind, calling his tone "weird."

Kaylee Goncalves' ex-boyfriend was questioned by police.

Police initially listed Goncalves' ex-boyfriend Jack DuCoeur as a person of interest, interviewing him and numerous other students as part of their investigation. DuCoeur and Goncalves remained friendly, and she called DuCoeur several times the night of the attack. DuCoeur told police she would call him often, especially if she was home alone, and that it didn't seem unusual to him at the time.

Related: What Happened to Savannah Guthrie's Mom?

The University of Idaho sent out a bulletin about the murders before all of the victims' families and next of kin had been informed.

Police said that not all of the bodies had been positively identified before the college sent out an announcement that a murder occurred, leading to confusion and fear among not just victims' families, but also other students and locals in the community.

Bryan Kohberger's car and cell phone records tied him to the crime scene.

A neighbor's outdoor camera captured a light-colored vehicle coming in and out of the King Road neighborhood several times throughout the night of the slayings, but the video wasn't clear enough to determine a specific make, model or license plate. Investigators worked with a special analyst, who determined it was a Hyundai Elantra from the years 2011 to 2016. Investigators sifted through thousands of vehicles before narrowing it down to Kohberger's.

Kohberger's phone was in the King Road area at odd hours of the night repeatedly in the four months leading up to the slayings, typically between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. each time. On the night of murders, Kohberger's phone showed it connected to cell towers near his Pullman, Wash., home at 2:42 a.m. At 2:47 a.m., Kohberger left his residence, went south and actively turned off his phone. His Elantra was seen exiting the crime scene so fast that he almost crashed at 4:20 a.m. At 4:48 a.m., his phone reactivated south of Moscow on highway I-95. At 5:30 a.m., his phone was traced back to his home in Pullman.

Related: The Night Lana Turner’s Daughter Stabbed the Star’s Mobster Boyfriend: Inside Hollywood’s Bloodiest Kitchen Scandal

Bryan Kohberger worked close to Xana Kernodle's sister.

Xana Kernodle's sister, Jazzmin Kernodle, was a student at Washington State University, where Kohberger was a teaching assistant.

The documentary examines Bryan Kohberger's reported visual snow syndrome—but experts have never linked the condition to violent crime.

According to forum posts from Kohberger, he suffered from a neurological condition called visual snow syndrome, also called visual static. According to Cleveland Clinic, visual snow syndrome can be likened to seeing the world as if it's in a snow globe that's been shaken, or like watching an old antenna TV through static. Kohberger wrote posts saying he didn't know what it was like to see people well or "live in the real world." Depersonalization, or the sense of feeling disconnected from one's self, can be a symptom that visual snow-afflicted patients experience, as well as depression, anxiety and irritability.

"I have no opinion, I have no emotions, I have nothing," he wrote in part in one post. In another, he described himself as "stuck in the void of nothing ... I constantly have to battle my demons." He did not say what those demons were.

Related: Does Chris Nanos Really Have a Reality Show?

DNA evidence was scant in the case, so investigators had to think outside the box to obtain it.

FBI did deep dive of Kohberger's car but vehicle was "spotless. There was nothing to be found." Though investigators recovered DNA from the knife sheath left at the crime scene, they weren't initially able to find any DNA in their own databases or with any others that matched what they'd found.

Police employed investigative DNA geneaology, which can potentially match DNA to blood relatives whose DNA may be accessible in databases.

Once they honed in on Kohberger using circumstantial evidence, they learned that police pulled him over twice in Indiana on Dec. 15, 2022, for following other vehicles too closely, and that his father was in the car with him both times. Police surmised he was traveling back to his parents' home in Pennsylvania, where they began surveilling him, but noticed something truly strange (unless, you know, you're a killer): He only left the house three times in about two weeks, and each time, he wore rubber gloves inside and outside the house.

Police decided to wait for the family to dispose of their trash for collection, which they could legally collect. The day they came to collect the Kohbergers' trash, they saw Kohberger walking down the street. A Q-tip they recovered from the family's garbage tested positive to be the father of the person whose DNA was on the knife sheath that was found at the Idaho college rental where the murders happened. Kohberger has no brothers, so the cops had their man.

Related: Where Is Casey Anthony Now in 2026? What Caylee Anthony's Mother Is Doing After Prison

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

Your choice of footwear plays an important role in an outfit by determining the aesthetic of your look. If you want every ensemble to look as summer-ready as the last, shoes that ooze with coastal-chic vibes can do the trick. During this sunny season, you should look for a pair that strikes a balance between comfort and style, so you're ready for any activity. Whether you’re traveling, grabbing coffee with friends, or simply running errands, these Time and Tru Raffia Mary Jane Flats with Charms are fit for the occasion. 

Lending themselves to the coastal grandmother aesthetic, these raffia flats will make your everyday outings feel like a beach vacation. While they look eerily similar to designer brand styles, you can score them on sale at Walmart for a budget-friendly price. Normally retailing for $29, these flats are currently marked down to just $20. They’re available in half sizes ranging from 6 to 11, and shoppers noted that they fit true to size — but they're currently selling fast, with some sizes already sold out!

Time and Tru Raffia Mary Jane Flats with Charms, $20 (were $29) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Blending a timeless silhouette with trendy elements, these flats are sure to be in constant rotation all summer long. Elegant and classic, the Mary Jane style features a rounded toe, an almond-shaped vamp, and a buckle that spans the foot bridge. 

These Mary Jane flats are elevated by the woven raffia exterior, which adds some coastal grandmother charm with its breezy, beach-inspired feel. Styled with any outfit, they can add a summer-ready vibe to your look. Making a bold and playful statement, the buckles are accented with gold-tone hardware featuring sun, moon, and shell motifs. 

Reviewers absolutely adored the style of these Mary Janes, describing them as “super cute,” “beautiful,” and “unique.” One shopper commented that the charms give these shoes a very “on-trend look.” Another customer mentioned that these flats “go with a lot of outfits.”

Shop More Deals 

• Free Assembly Woven Ballet Flats, $23 (were $38) at Walmart
• Madden NYC Woven Mesh Mule Flats, $22 (were $36) at Walmart
• Crocs Baya Clogs, From $35 (were $50) at Walmart

These flats boast neutral tones that’ll complement any outfit. The raffia has a warm beige hue, which contrasts the black lining and buckle, making these shoes an easy choice for both muted and vibrant outfits. Striking a balance between elegant and fun, they'll match casual attire, dressy ensembles, and everything in between. You can throw them on with relaxed streetwear, chic sundresses, and even officewear. 

Just as comfortable as they are chic, these flats have a foam insole lined with faux leather, cushioning your feet with every step. They have the slightest heel, coming in at just 0.2 inches tall, subtly giving you a lift without sacrificing stability. Thanks to the strap, your feet should stay securely in place. You can also adjust the buckle to tailor the tightness to your preference. 

The raffia exterior is made of olefin, which is more durable than natural raffia as it is UV-resistant and water-friendly, making it ideal for all your summer outings. The outsole is made of thermoplastic rubber (TPR), offering traction on all kinds of surfaces to help prevent you from slipping. From beach boardwalks to city streets, these flats are ready for wherever the day takes you. 

Related: Walmart’s ‘Squishy’ Non-Slip Slide Sandals With Arch Support Have Shoppers Scooping Up Multiple Colors

With summer in full swing, throw on the Time and Tru Raffia Mary Jane Flats with Charms and embrace the coastal grandmother aesthetic. Don’t hesitate to head to Walmart and snag them on sale for just $20! Be sure to hurry while your size is still in stock because they’re sure to be flying off the shelves. 

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.

It’s been 59 years since The Doors topped the charts with the breakout hit “Light My Fire.”

The single from the Los Angeles-based rock band’s self-titled debut album reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on July 29, 1967, kicking off a three-week run at the top of the music chart.

One year later, “Light My Fire” climbed the charts again—this time after a Puerto Rican soft-pop pioneer put a new spin on the classic song.

Written by Robby Krieger with help from Jim Morrison, Ray Manzarek and John Densmore, the original version of “Light My Fire” featured a hypnotic organ riff and lyrics about desire. While it introduced the band’s psychedelic sound, the song returned in 1968 as an acoustic cover recorded by guitar virtuoso José Feliciano, which debuted on Billboard on July 27, 1968, and reached No. 3 on August 31 of that year.

Krieger once reflected on writing “Light My Fire," and he credited Feliciano for the song's longevity.

“It's really a great feeling to have written a classic,” he said in an interview with Classic Bands. “I think I owe a big debt to José Feliciano because he is actually the one, when he did it, everybody started doing it. He did a whole different arrangement on it. It was a much more accessible arrangement as far as different types of musicians doing it.  …The very fact that that song was the key element in the career of both The Doors and José Feliciano, in two total different arrangements of the song, shows how strong that song is.”

Feliciano, who had been playing "Light My Fire” during his concerts, recorded the song at the suggestion of his record producer Rick Jarrard.

"I didn't agree, but it was one of the times I was wrong,” he admitted in an interview published by Elsewhere. “When my career took off, it surprised me. I was only 22. To have that much success so fast, I just wasn't prepared."

Felciano also explained how his version of “Light My Fire” became a hit song soon after the Doors had a smash success with it.

“I think ‘Light My Fire’ was a unique-sounding record in the sense that it didn't employ any drums, like your rock 'n' roll records of that time period,” he told Classic Bands. "I think that's why I made it. It was guitar, conga drum, and Ray Brown on bass. It was just the right elements at the right time.”

Nearly 60 years later, "Light My Fire” remains one of the most timeless songs in rock history, and one that Krieger, now 80, remains extremely proud of.

The Doors guitarist once said he always considered “Light My Fire” to be one of the best songs that he ever wrote.

“I never got tired of playing it,” Krieger shared in an essay for Songwriting magazine. “We knew it was good because whenever we played it live, people would go crazy – that was definitely the best response we got from any of the songs. We knew it was our strongest song even before we went into the studio. Who knows why?”

Related: 1967 Classic Rock Hit, Tied to Banned TV Appearance, Climbed the Charts Again 20 Years Later

Virgin Voyages is officially charting new territory for Summer 2028. The adult-only cruise line announced its first-ever season in Scandinavia and the Baltics, sending Valiant Lady to homeport out of Amsterdam for a limited six-sailing season running from July 9 through September 4, 2028. The lineup marks a major milestone for the fleet, introducing 15 brand-new maiden ports across two seas, including new calls in Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Germany, Poland, and France.

The new season features four distinct Northern Europe itineraries alongside two 10-night Western Europe repositioning crossings connecting Barcelona and Amsterdam. Designed for travelers who want deep cultural immersion without the traditional mega-ship crowds, every itinerary on the schedule includes at least one port that Virgin Voyages has never visited before, along with overnight stays in cultural hotspots like Stockholm and Lisbon.

Related: Virgin Voyages Just Reimagined Its Signature Spaces for Alaska

View this post on Instagram

The marquee itinerary of the season is an 11-night Arctic Circle & Norwegian Fjords voyage departing August 2028. The ship will sail past the Arctic Circle to 71°N—celebrated on board with an Arctic Circle Crossing Ceremony and a midnight sun deck party—with stops in Tromsø, Honningsvåg (gateway to the North Cape), Trondheim, Åndalsnes, and Olden.

Related: Virgin Voyages Just Leaked the Most Exclusive Ticket at Sea

For those looking for a broader regional overview, the 12-night Scandinavia & Stockholm Overnight (July 19–31) covers five countries and six ports, complete with a golden-hour sail-in and overnight stay in Stockholm, a late stay in Copenhagen, and day trips to Oslo, Gdańsk, Berlin (via Warnemünde), and Aarhus. Meanwhile, two 7-night options offer targeted escapes: a fjord-heavy route hitting Molde, Nordfjordeid, Flåm, and Bergen, and a city-centric getaway visiting Oslo, Copenhagen, and Hamburg with late-night departures.

Presales for Virgin Voyages' Sailing Club loyalty members open on August 13, 2026—including a $100 Bar Tab bonus for early bookers—before general public sales open on August 14, 2026. For ultra-frequent cruisers, the line is also offering a comprehensive "Summer Pass 2028" package, allowing travelers to sail all four Northern Europe itineraries back-to-back with VIP perks, specialized onboard amenities, and dedicated event access.

Related: Virgin Voyages' Sold-Out True Crime Cruise Is Returning for 2027

On July 29, 1981, millions of viewers around the globe tuned in to watch a real-life fairytale unfold as Lady Diana Spencer married Prince Charles.

But behind the massive silk dress with its 25-foot train, a historic cathedral, and the wave of royal celebration lay a quiet wave of tension. Just hours before making her way to the altar, the 20-year-old bride made a decision not to wear a gift from her soon-to-be husband. Her decision foreshadowed the heartbreaking reality of their marriage before it even began.

As revealed in Andrew Morton's tell-all book, Diana: Her True Story, Prince Charles gave Diana a signet ring engraved with the Prince of Wales feathers the night before they said, "I do."

The meaning behind the gesture wasn't lost on Diana. Taking on the role of Princess of Wales meant stepping into line and putting her husband's royal duties first.

Parade Daily🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

Diana shared her story with Morton. “[Charles] sent me a very nice signet ring the night before to Clarence House, with the Prince of Wales feathers on and a very nice card that said: ‘I’m so proud of you and when you come up I’ll be there at the altar for you tomorrow. Just look ’em in the eye and knock ’em dead.'”

However, when she left Clarence House to enter the royal carriage with her father, John Spencer, the ring stayed behind. The Prince of Wales' gold signet ring is engraved with a crown, feather, and the phrase “ich dien,” which translates to “I serve.”

Jayne Fincher/Princess Diana Archive/Getty Images

Reportedly, she didn't wear it because she was unsure about their union, even hours before walking down the aisle. She had learned, just a short time earlier, that Charles refused to give up his friendship with his former lover, Camilla Parker Bowles, after their marriage.

Diana knew Charles had previously dated Camilla. Her reported breaking point came just two weeks before the wedding, when Diana walked into the office of Charles’s secretary and opened a package that was delivered to his desk.

Inside was a custom gold bracelet engraved with the letters "F" and "G"—short for "Fred" and "Gladys," the secret nicknames Charles and Camilla used for one another, according to The Sun. According to Diana's account for Morton, the discovery left her completely devastated.

The author said that event, coupled with wedding jitters, led Diana to feel a sense of doom before her wedding day. He shared her thoughts just before saying "I do."

“The night before the wedding, I was very calm, deathly calm," Diana explained. "I felt I was the lamb to the slaughter. I knew it, and I couldn’t do anything about it.”

These feelings were eerily depicted in Season 4 of the Netflix series, The Crown.

Diana would wear the ring and off throughout her marriage to then-Prince Charles, which ended in 1996. After welcoming two children, sons Prince William and Prince Harry, the couple officially separated in 1992.

Princess Diana died in a tragic car accident in Paris, France, in August 1997. She was 36.

Related: Princess Diana’s Wedding Gift Gets Dramatic Makeover by Camilla Parker Bowles

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

Finding a cute summer outfit for less than the price of lunch doesn’t happen often, but Macy’s currently has one for just $9. The Bar III Tie-Front Romper originally cost $60, which means the Last Act price knocks an impressive 85% off. It comes in carmine red and a light beige shade called croissant, with sizes ranging from XXS to 2XL.

The Macy’s-exclusive design features a halter neckline that ties behind the neck, a fitted bodice, a back zipper, and a fabric tie that wraps around the waist. The draped front makes it look like a mini dress, but there are shorts hidden underneath. It measures 24.5 inches long and is fully lined in cotton, while the outer fabric is a blend of viscose, linen, and spandex. And as an added bonus, the entire romper is machine washable.

Bar III Tie-Front Romper, $9 (was $60) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

The wrap-style tie creates some definition at the waist, while the halter neckline leaves plenty of room for your favorite earrings or necklace. The shorts also make it a little easier to sit, walk, and move around than a mini dress of the same length, so you won’t have to constantly worry about a breeze or adjust your outfit throughout the day.

One shopper called it a “cute skort-dress,” which is an accurate description of the wrap-front design. The shopper did note that they had issues with the zipper, so that’s something to keep in mind when your order arrives. Aside from that, the linen-blend design is perfect if you’re looking for something breathable and soft to wear without spending much.

Related: Macy’s 'Breezy' 100% Linen Top Is 'Perfect for Summer' and Comes in 17 Gorgeous Colors

The carmine red version would be an easy date-night choice with strappy heels or metallic sandals, simple hoops, and a small shoulder bag, while the croissant shade could offer a more relaxed look with flat sandals and a woven bag for vacation. You could even layer a lightweight button-down over either color when you want more coverage without hiding the tie-waist detail.

Shop More Deals

• Charter Club 100% Linen Embroidered-Hem Sleeveless Dress, $55 (was $130) at Macy’s
• Hope & Henry Linen Button-Front Skirt, $35 (was $50) at Macy’s
• Charter Club 100% Linen Split-Neck Tie-Cuff Top, $35 (was $70) at Macy’s

A $51 discount is reason enough to take another look, but this romper is useful beyond the thrill of finding an unusually low price. Both colors are easy to accessorize, while the adjustable ties let you change how the neckline and waist sit. Be sure to grab the Bar III Tie-Front Romper while it’s still in stock for an impressive 85% off at Macy’s.

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.

Long before REO Speedwagon became one of rock's biggest arena acts, co-founder Neal Doughty was simply a college engineering student inspired by the British Invasion.

Doughty, who turns 80 on July 29, helped found REO Speedwagon in 1967 and remained the band's only member to appear on every studio album through its retirement. Along the way, he became known for his Hammond organ work on "Roll with the Changes," his pioneering use of the Minimoog synthesizer on "Ridin' the Storm Out" and the piano parts that helped define the band's signature sound.

Looking back on the band's beginnings, Doughty credited one group above all others.

"The Beatles had made every kid in the world want to be in a rock and roll band," he told Illinois Alumni Magazine in 2025. "Once we decided that we were going to start a band together, it was just so exciting that we were actually doing it. I'd never done anything like this."

The band's famous name also came from Doughty.

While searching for something to call the fledgling group, he walked into an engineering class and noticed "REO Speedwagon" written across the blackboard.

"I told the guys that night and they all loved it. It was the only name we ever considered," he said.

Their first gig hardly foreshadowed the success to come. Doughty recalled arriving at the Zeta Beta Tau fraternity house only to discover the walls covered in paper before an all-out food fight erupted.

"They had the whole dining room—all the walls—covered with brown paper. Our stage was a bunch of tables stuffed together, and they had invited a sorority to dinner. But what the sorority didn’t know was that they were gonna break into a food fight!" said Doughty. "And that explained the paper that was hanging all around the walls. They just started throwing food around, and I remember it took Alan about a week to get all the mashed potatoes out of his drums ... but the good was, we did get paid $40."

After more than a decade of touring, REO finally broke through with Hi Infidelity, one of the biggest-selling rock albums of the 1980s. Surprisingly, Doughty admitted that fame itself wasn't something he enjoyed.

"I hated it," he told Goldmine Magazine in 2013. "I am such a low-profile person … I am just the last person in the world who wants to be famous. I like it onstage that people consider us a big band, but in my private life I am really just as low-profile of a person as you can imagine."

Instead, Doughty always remained focused on the music.

"We're still trying to play better than we did the night before," he said in that 2013 interview when he was still touring with the band. "We focus on the quality of our playing … there is nothing better than just trying to play better than you did the night before."

That dedication is evident throughout REO Speedwagon's catalog. Beyond his unforgettable organ solo in "Roll with the Changes," Doughty also wrote or co-wrote several songs for the band, including "One Lonely Night," which reached the Billboard Top 20, while his Minimoog synthesizer introduced the dramatic opening of "Ridin' the Storm Out" and his improvisational keyboard work became a defining feature of concert favorite "157 Riverside Avenue."

In fact, the band went so far as to call him a "virtuoso" on that track, writing on its website, "'157 Riverside Avenue,' the oldest track still in the REO live set, owes a great deal to Neal’s virtuoso improvisation."

Eight decades after he was born, Neal Doughty remains one of classic rock's quiet architects, proving that sometimes the musicians behind the keys leave just as lasting a mark as the stars standing at center stage.

Related: Retiring Original Lead Singer Rejoins '70s Rock Icons for New Version of Iconic Hit

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

Summer is the perfect time to turn your backyard or patio into a personal retreat, where iced drinks flow, laughter lingers, and every sunset feels like a mini vacation. There is something about warm evenings and bright, sunny mornings that inspires us to get outside and savor the best of the season. Whether you are entertaining friends or simply unwinding with a good book, having the right outdoor setup can make every day feel like a getaway.

Outdoor living spaces are getting a serious upgrade this season thanks to Walmart's Gymax 4-Piece Rattan Patio Set, now on sale for as low as $150. Originally priced at $320, this set has caught the attention of shoppers for its combination of comfort, durability, and style. With five color options (including turquoise, black, gray, khaki, and red), it is easy to coordinate with any outdoor decor.

Gymax 4-Piece Rattan Patio Set, From $150 (was $320) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

This furniture set stands out for its balance of flexibility and sturdy construction, making it an appealing choice for anyone hoping to refresh a patio, balcony, or garden on a budget. The four-piece arrangement includes two single chairs, a loveseat, and a coffee table with a tempered glass top. 

The seats feature thick, high-density sponge cushions that invite you to settle in. Most importantly, shoppers loved the zippered, removable cushion covers, which are easy to take off and wash after a season of outdoor fun. 

Many shoppers have praised the set as a "comfortable and steady addition to our patio," noting that the support and softness make it a favorite spot for lounging.

Gymax 4-Piece Rattan Patio Set, From $150 (was $320) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Each piece is designed to be arranged in a variety of ways to suit your space, whether you are creating a cozy conversation area or maximizing seating for gatherings. The steel frame and tightly woven rattan ensure long-lasting durability, while anti-slip pads on the feet provide stability and protect your patio surface.

The included coffee table offers a tempered glass top is perfect for holding snacks, drinks, or a board game on family nights. The glass is easy to clean and adds a touch of modern polish to the set's natural, woven look. With generous weight capacities (355 pounds for each chair and 710 pounds for the loveseat), the furniture is as sturdy as it is attractive and can hold up well to use daily.

Assembly is straightforward, with detailed instructions included so that you can set up your new oasis without hassle. The compact dimensions also make this set ideal for smaller patios or balconies without sacrificing style or comfort. The loveseat, for example, measures 41 inches long, 23.5 inches wide, and 32.5 inches tall. It’s not massive, but still roomy enough to kick back and relax. 

One shopper called it a “beautiful and comfortable set,” adding that "everyone compliments it." Another reviewer agreed that it’s “comfy” and said it "works great for my family and friends."

Shop More Deals

• Gymax 2-Piece Patio Wooden Chaise Lounge Chairs, $309 (were $473) at Walmart 
• Michael Kors Jet Set Travel Dome Crossbody Bag, $62 (was $289) at Walmart
• Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, $54 (was $64) at Walmart

Related: Pandora's Delicate Gold-Plated Stone Earrings Radiate Quiet Luxury, Now 50% Off at Macy's

Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue, relaxing poolside, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon outside, Walmart's Gymax 4-Piece Rattan Patio Set offers an inviting, affordable way to make the most of your outdoor space. Snag your set at this price before the sale ends!

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.

Martina McBride is a country music superstar with a talent for balancing powerhouse vocals with heartfelt authenticity. Over more than three decades, the four-time CMA Female Vocalist of the Year has built a career defined by chart-topping hits and songs that champion resilience, compassion and the strength of women.

Born Martina Schiff in Sharon, Kansas—a farming community with a population of just a few hundred people—McBride grew up performing with her family's band. "Since I can remember my father had a band. And when I was a real little they were would rehearse in the living room," she says. "So I started singing at about four years-old."

At just 17, she packed up her Dodge Dart, left Kansas behind and headed toward a future in country music, determined to make singing her career. Years later, during the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum's Live at the Hall interview, she reflected that she had always known she wanted to be a singer. Her dream never wavered.

🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 

After a brief stop in Hutchinson, Kansas, she and her husband, sound engineer John McBride, moved to Nashville in 1990. Her big break came in an unlikely way. While selling T-shirts on Garth Brooks' concert tours, she caught Brooks' attention, and he invited her to open his arena shows.

The opportunity introduced millions of fans to her soulful voice and launched one of country music's most enduring careers. During an early appearance on the Today show, as her debut single "The Time Has Come" was climbing the charts and she was preparing to open for Brooks, McBride reflected on realizing her lifelong dream. "From the time I have been really small, I have always wanted to do this," she said. "I never really considered doing anything else at all."

Even before her career took off, McBride knew exactly the kind of artist she wanted to become. Asked during that same Today interview what image she hoped to project, she replied, "Well, I'm pretty much what you see is what you get. I'm just going to try to be myself," she said. "And what I would like to portray is just a strong woman… somebody that other women can maybe relate to and hopefully look up to."

That guiding force became the blueprint for her career. During her interview at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum McBride was asked where her desire to sing about women. She said, "I can always remember wanting to have songs that showed strength and portrayed women with dignity and respect and strength… whatever they were going through in life," she shared. "I wanted my songs to be real. I always wanted to have songs that meant something."

As McBride celebrates her birthday today, July 29, it is the perfect time to reflect on the wisdom that has guided her career. From staying true to herself as a young artist to embracing vulnerability and self-acceptance decades later.

Quote of the Day by Martina McBride

"I put a lot of expectations on myself. I want to be the very best at what I do. But as I get a little older, that has changed a little bit. I am a little more accepting that I am not always going to be perfect. I have flaws, and even on stage some nights are going to be better than others."

During a 2024 appearance on The Big Interview with Dan Rather, McBride reflected on the high expectations she has always placed on herself. Her comments came after Rather asked about vulnerability and how she had changed over the years. The country star explained that she has learned to be more forgiving of herself, recognizing that perfection isn't realistic. Even after decades of success.

Related: Queen Latifah’s Powerful Quote Reminds Us We’re All Designed With Purpose

Deeper Meaning of Martina McBride's Quote

McBride shared these reflections after Rather asked whether reaching a new stage in her life and career had changed her perspective. She responded that it had, explaining that she has become more comfortable allowing herself to be open in ways she wasn't earlier in her career.

"I allow myself to be more vulnerable now. And probably more open than I have been in the past," she also said. "When you start out, in your 20s and 30s, and as a woman in this business, I felt like I had to have it all together. I had to be strong and in charge. I had to know what I was doing at all times and kind of prove myself. And as you get older you just ease up a little bit on yourself."

That evolution makes McBride's Quote of the Day especially meaningful. Earlier in her career, she felt she had to project unwavering confidence while proving herself in the country music industry. Over time, she came to understand that vulnerability isn't a weakness. Instead, it allows people to be more authentic and to extend themselves the same grace they often give to others.

McBride also revealed that much of the pressure she experienced came from within, not from competing with other artists. As she explained, "I'm not very competitive with other people. Like I want everybody to win. But I do probably put a lot of pressure on myself."

McBride isn't suggesting that people should stop striving to do their best. Instead, she is reminding us that excellence and self-compassion can coexist. We can work hard, pursue goals, and still accept that not every performance, project or day will be perfect.

McBride has discovered that true strength isn't about never showing flaws. It's about embracing them, continuing to grow and giving yourself permission to be human.

Related: Quote of the Day: Brené Brown on Being Vulnerable in Life

Other Quotes from Martina McBride

"It's important to have songs that have a wide range of subjects, because music is one of the ways we can change the consciousness."

"Do you really want to spend your whole career not speaking out about things that are important to you just because you don't want somebody to be upset?"

"You have to take risks in this life and in this business… As I get older I do that easier."

"I always thought it was really important to be hands-on with my career… I just wanted to be authentic and real and I also felt like it was important to use my music to give back." —

"When I hear a song, like "Concrete Angel" or "Independence Day"...that deals with domestic abuse, It really moves me. I remember feeling, there is somebody out there who needs to hear this song....Music is so powerful. And I don't know that I really realized that until I cut songs like that and heard people's reactions and how it really helped them through what they were going through."

Next, Quote of the Day: Psychologist Gordon Allport on Humor Being the Best Way To Fight Life’s ‘Tangles’—‘We Have No Appropriate Sword Other Than Laughter’

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

Rolling carts are a must-have when it comes to home organization. Endlessly versatile and convenient, a rolling cart is a breeze to move around, perfect for stowing a variety of different items and makes everything easily accessible at a moment's notice. Well, Marshalls is now selling a new rolling cart that is a total level up from a basic rolling cart design. It is foldable, has a drawer and an upper surface, too. It is honestly a total home organization gem.

From Issac Jacobs, the home brand's 3-Tier Foldable Cart With Drawer stands 34.5 inches in height, and measures 17.75 inches in width and 11.75 inches in length, making this rolling storage cart the perfect size. It is large enough for storing all of your belongings without being bulky and taking up too much room. Its pretty light pink color coupled with the natural-colored surface of the upper drawer also adds a little something extra to the piece. It won't look like an eyesore in your space at all.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

Issac Jacobs 34.5in 3-Tier Foldable Cart With Drawer, $59.99 at Marshalls

Marshalls

Shop It!

The cart's open 3-tier design helps you keep your things neat, organized and easy to access. This would be great for storing everything from crafting essentials to office supplies or even your everyday makeup and skincare essentials. The options are truly endless. And if you are off to college this fall, it would also be incredibly useful in a dorm room, where square footage is notoriously limited. After all, this rolling cart takes advantage of vertical space, helping you utilize every nook and cranny of your living area.

Related: This $5 Organizer at Target Is Going Wildly Viral for Its Versatile Design

A special feature of this rolling cart that you don't see often is its upper drawer. This provides the opportunity for concealed storage. It also helps you keep smaller items easy to grab and at-the-ready.

Another big appeal of this rolling cart is two-fold (literally). Its rolling wheels help make it portable and easy to move around. And if the time ever comes where you don't need to use it or are moving, it folds down for convenient transportation.

You can find this chic foldable rolling cart at select Marshalls stores or on Marshalls.com. It retails for $59.99, which is a savings on its usual price point of $84.

Related: Marshalls' Beautiful New 3-Piece Comforter Set Is Serving English Countryside Perfection

Circa 1980, American writer Bret Easton Ellis began working on a story inspired by film noir and Joan Didion. The first draft, which he brought to his creative writing teacher for feedback, was incredibly emotional and overly written. At the advice of his teacher, Ellis reworked the novel and settled on a much drier, more minimalist style.

Five years later, when Ellis was just 21, his debut novel was published. Titled Less than Zero after the Elvis Costello song of the same name, the novel became synonymous with nihilism, the apathetic ways of the rich, and even, according to some, "disturbing."

When reflecting on his own work after rereading it several decades after the fact, Ellis has said:

"There's a lot of it that I wish was slightly more elegantly written. Overall, I was pretty shocked. It was pretty good writing for someone who was 19. I was pretty surprised by the level of writing."

View this post on Instagram

Set in 1980s Los Angeles, Less than Zerofollows Clay, a rich, young college student who returns home for winter break. Clay is a relatively ambivalent young man who spends his days home from college partying and having casual sex and engaging in substance abuse. Throughout the novel, Clay is set on reuniting with his friend Julian, whom he hasn't spoken to in months. While going through the motions, Clay reflects on the world around him, the apathy of those in his inner circle, and what "it all really means."

25 years after the initial publication, Ellis published a sequel to Less than Zero following the same characters as they approached and/or reached middle age. The novel, which was titled Imperial Bedrooms and published in 2010, also took inspiration from the title of an Elvis Costello record. Response to the follow-up book was both polarizing and mixed.

Less than Zero, Imperial Bedrooms, and other works by Ellis are available wherever books are sold.

🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬

Related: Best-Selling 2019 Classic Thriller Ranked a 'Most Read Book of the Year' According to Goodreads

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

If your dream summer aesthetic is inspired by a European getaway, one of the easiest ways to capture that feeling is by refreshing your bedding. A beautiful quilt can instantly make your bedroom feel lighter, calmer, and more inviting, bringing that relaxed French countryside charm into your everyday routine without the cost of a vacation.

You don't have to spend a fortune to get the look, either. The Charter Club Nadia Quilt Set is currently on sale for an impressive 70% off at Macy's, bringing the price down from $300 to just $90 for a twin set. It's an incredible value for such a high-quality bedding upgrade.

Charter Club Nadia Quilt Set, From $90 (was $300) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

The quilt set comes in twin, full/queen, and king sizes. The twin includes one quilt and one standard sham, while the full/queen and king sets include a quilt plus two coordinating shams for a complete, polished look.

One of the biggest highlights is the fabric. The shell is 100% cotton, while the fill is polyester. The cotton means it's naturally breathable, temperature-regulating, durable, and gets softer with every wash. It's also Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified and machine washable for easy care.

The lightweight construction makes it especially well-suited for summer, offering breathable comfort for hot sleepers or anyone who prefers lighter bedding. Once cooler weather arrives, it's easy to layer with blankets or a duvet, making it a piece you can use year-round.

The design feels timeless and effortlessly elegant. One side features an intricate, vintage-style botanical print with floral vines, leaves, and blooms. The other side showcases a clean, subtle light blue and white ticking stripe, allowing for a folded-over contrasting cuff look. The reversible design lets you change the feel of your bedroom whenever you want, and the subtle diamond stitching adds beautiful texture throughout.

The overall look fits perfectly with today's French countryside, cottagecore, and vintage-inspired decorating trends. It pairs beautifully with natural wood furniture, woven baskets, linen curtains, ceramic vases, and brass accents, creating a bedroom that feels warm, collected, and effortlessly relaxing.

Reviewers also seemed impressed by the quilt set. One shopper described it as “light and airy,” adding, “It is a beautiful color and weight going into summer.” Another said it added a “touch of elegance” to their space, writing, “This is the nicest bed set for an unbelievable price! The quality is superb and stitching is consistent. It feels soft and light and gives a French countryside vibe. It’s really amazing!”

Shop More Deals

• Charter Club Seaside Patchwork Quilt Set, From $75 (was $300) at Macy’s
• Ameena Reversible 8-Piece Comforter Set, $30 (was $100) at Macy’s
• Vanelisse 3-Piece Comforter Set, $24 (was $80) at Macy’s

Related: Macy's 100% Linen Pants Are 'Lightweight,' 'Breathable,' and Perfect for Summer Travel

For an easy bedroom refresh that instantly makes your space feel brighter, calmer, and more inviting, the Charter Club Nadia Quilt Set is a fantastic pick. And with Macy's current 70% discount, you can save over $200 on this beautiful cotton bedding set.

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.

Megan Moroney is feeling under the weather.

The country music superstar, 28, who is in the middle of her Cloud 9 Tour, fully intended to perform her entire set list on Tuesday night (July 8), but unfortunately she was too ill and couldn’t give fans the show they deserved. 

RELATED: 1988 No. 1 Hit, Written by a 17-Year-Old Singer, Became a Timeless Heartbreak Anthem

Shortly after treating the crowd at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo., to a few songs, Moroney ended her concert. According to Billboard, which cited Setlist.FM, she performed three songs, including “Stupid,” “Medicine,” and “Bless Your Heart.” She then briefly left the stage before returning to address the crowd about her health, although she did not specify what caused her to fall ill. 

The music venue promptly issued a statement to those who attended the show. 

“Megan is unable to continue her performance this evening due to illness, and we must end the show at this time,” Ball Arena shared in a message. “Please allow event staff to direct you to the nearest exit, and we will follow up with more information as soon as we're able. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your understanding and cooperation.”

“That was the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make [and] I’m so sorry to cancel the show tonight,” Moroney later wrote a message to her fans in her Instagram Stories. “I never will give you guys a show that is not 100%, and by song 3 I knew that I was not capable of giving that to you guys tonight.”

RELATED: Country Star Suffers Nasty Fall While Leaving His Concert in Michigan

“I’m typing this as I’m quite literally bawling my eyes out in my dressing room [and] it hurts me so much to disappoint you all,” she added. 

Luckily for fans, Moroney has already rescheduled the concert for Thursday, Aug. 27.

“I will be back [on] August 27, and all tickets purchased for tonight’s show will be honored for the new date,” she wrote. “If you can’t make the rescheduled date, refunds are available at the point of purchase. I’ve never had to do this [and] I’m truly so sorry. I love u guys.”

Related: 2001 No. 1 Country Song, With 17-Year-Old Singer, Became a Generational One-Hit Wonder

The wonderful thing about movies is that the magic never really disappears. For fans of the KPop Demon Hunters movie, that magic now extends far beyond the silver screen, bringing a beloved character to life through a detailed Lego brick build.

This week, Sam’s Club is dropping the Lego Derpy Tiger and Sussie Bird set in select warehouse locations. Spotted in-store by @samsclublovers but not yet available online, shoppers can snag this 825-piece set for $10 less when purchased in-warehouse, making it a deal fans won’t want to miss.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

Lego Derpy Tiger and Sussie Bird, $59.98 at Sam's Club View this post on Instagram

With 825 pieces in the set, builders can have fun assembling a piece of K-pop merch and recreating their favorite scenes from the movie. Fans can even choose from two expressions to show off the tiger’s goofy grin or let him deliver one of two sweet love notes on his tongue, inspired by the notes exchanged between Rumi and Jinu in the movie. There’s also a flowerpot for the tiger to knock over and a secret compartment in Derpy’s head to store all the accessories.

Where this set shines even more, however, is in its poseable design. For starters, Derpy features a movable head, legs and paws, while Sussie Bird has a rotating neck and posable feet. Sussie Bird can also be placed directly on top of Derpy’s head for a true bird’s-eye view of all the action while being displayed. 

Related: A Lego 'Star Wars' Collectible Worth Thousands Could Make a Comeback in 2027

Derpy Tiger and Sussie Bird Lego Set

Lego

Designed for ages 9 and up, this set makes for a fun family project and a no-brainer pickup for any household with kids. When built, it stands over 8.5 inches tall, with a 6-inch length and width while Sussie is standing on Derpy’s head, making it a sizable addition to any growing Lego collection and a fun display piece for fans.

Just be sure to grab it if you spot it in-store at your local Sam’s Club. With a $10 discount off its original $70 price tag, this deal could be just the push fans who have yet to pick up the build need to finally add it to their collection. And while you’re at it, check out Target’s Lego Creator 3-in-1 Retro Gaming Console Toy for more Lego building fun.

Related: Lego's New 1,478-Piece 'X-Files' Set Takes Fans on a Nostalgic Trip Back to the '90s

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

If your summer wardrobe could use something a little more stylish than another plain tank, Walmart is selling a top with the charm of a vintage peasant blouse in a much breezier design. The Moxiu Embroidered Cotton-Linen Tank Top comes in 32 color and sleeve combinations, with the same embroidered look available as either a tank or a short-sleeve top. There are beige, black, blue, green, pink, and several other shades to choose from, and select options are currently marked down to $8 from $13. Prices vary by color and sleeve length, and sizes range from small through 2XL.

The tank style features a scoop neckline, a roomy cut, and floral embroidery that runs down the front. It’s made from a lightweight cotton-linen and gauze blend. The longer curved hem gives you a little more coverage, and the sleeveless cut keeps the top cool enough to wear on hot days. 

Moxiu Embroidered Cotton-Linen Tank Top, From $8 (was $13) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

You can always make room for another easy summer top, especially when it has pretty embroidery that helps it stand out from the rest of your tanks. This one feels more unique than a basic style, but it still pairs easily with the denim shorts, linen pants, and sandals you probably already wear. Its relaxed cut also gives you more breathing room than a fitted top on hot, humid days. 

The floral stitching offers the romantic look of a peasant blouse without puffed sleeves, ruffles, or more fabric. The tank is especially easy for the hottest days, while the short-sleeve version features the same embroidery while offering slightly more coverage. Both are wearable enough for everyday plans, and at this low price, it may even be worth snagging both.

Related: Walmart's Flowy $10 Lounge Pants Are 'Super Soft,' 'Comfy,' and Available in 3 Classic Colors

Similar cotton-linen summer tops often cost $20 or more, so finding an embroidered version for under $10 is a great deal. Cotton also helps soften linen and can make the blend less prone to wrinkling than pure linen, which is always a plus. Just be sure to check that your preferred color, size, and sleeve option is still on sale before ordering.

Shop More Deals

• Sahpxhe 2-Piece Cotton-Linen Lounge Set, $7 (was $15) at Walmart
• Vmviodty Cotton-Linen Button-Down Shirt, $3 (was $10) at Walmart
• Time and Tru Linen-Blend Square Neck Tank Top, From $7 (was $15) at Walmart

A cotton-linen top for $8 is already a great find, but the embroidery is what makes this one feel like something you’ll genuinely want to wear. Head to Walmart’s site to grab the Moxiu Embroidered Cotton-Linen Tank Top while select colors and sleeve options are still on sale for under $10. 

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.

Today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle explores everything about different kinds of competitions, the order of play in a popular poker game, professional teams from one Canadian city, and words or phrases that begin with a musical style. Get excited—there's another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you're looking for some hints and answers for today's Connections Sports Edition on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, you've come to the right place.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox

Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Wednesday, July 29, 2026 / New York Times

New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it's a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It's up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.

This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.

As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you "group sports terms that share a common thread."

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

Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on July 29, 2026

Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.

• Yellow: Going up against an opponent.
• Green: Deal me in!
• Blue: The Paris of North America.
• Purple: Look for hidden tuneful words.

Here Are Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories

OK, time for a second hint…we'll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!

• Yellow: CONTEST
• Green: STAGES IN TEXAS HOLD'EM HAND
• Blue: PRO TEAMS IN MONTREAL
• Purple: STARTS WITH A MUSIC GENRE

If you're looking for the answers, no worries—we've got them below. So, don't scroll any further if you don't want to see the solutions!

The answers to today's Connections Sports Edition #674 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• CONTEST: COMPETITION, FIXTURE, GAME, MATCH
• STAGES IN TEXAS HOLD'EM HAND: FLOP, RIVER, SHOWDOWN, TURN
• PRO TEAMS IN MONTREAL: ALOUETTES, CANADIENDS, CF MONTREAL, VICTOIRE
• STARTS WITH A MUSIC GENRE: COUNTRY CLUB, POPOVICH, RAPIDS, ROCKY

Don't worry if you didn't get them this time—we've all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

Related: NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Tuesday, July 28, 2026

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

Just because something is functional doesn’t mean it can’t be fun. These days, kitchens are getting a whimsical makeover, with folks adding cheerful touches like colorful cookware, vintage-inspired tea towels, and playful ceramics that make everyday routines feel a little more joyful. Instead of hiding away the items we use every day, the trend is all about choosing pieces that bring personality to the space and make you smile every time you reach for them.

Amazon is making it easy to add that same charm to your own kitchen with the Kate Spade New York Cherry Dot Kitchen Towel, Oven Mitt and Pot Holder 4-Pack Set, now marked down over 40% from its original $45 price tag to just $26. Featuring coordinating kitchen linens covered in a cheerful cherry print, this set turns everyday cooking essentials into decorative accents that are just as fun to display as they are to use.

Kate Spade New York Cherry Dot Kitchen Towel, Oven Mitt and Pot Holder 4-Pack Set, $26 (was $45) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

This four-piece kitchen set covers the essentials you reach for every day, but does it with the playful charm of a vintage diner. It includes two generously sized 17-by-28-inch kitchen towels for everything from drying dishes and glassware to lining bread baskets or wiping down countertops, along with a 7-by-13-inch oven mitt that slips comfortably over your hand when transferring hot baking sheets or casserole dishes. A coordinating 7-by-10-inch pot holder rounds out the set, doubling as a protective barrier for hot cookware and a convenient trivet for serving straight from the oven to the table.

The print feels delightfully nostalgic, borrowing from the cheerful motifs that defined mid-century kitchens. Tiny cobalt-blue polka dots scatter across a crisp white background, creating the perfect backdrop for clusters of bright red cherries that almost resemble little hearts paired together on slender navy stems. The cherries feature subtle tonal shading that gives them a hand-painted look, while deep blue leaves echo the dotted pattern, creating a cohesive palette of primary-inspired color. Finished with vibrant red piping around the oven mitt and pot holder, the collection captures that retro Americana spirit that feels equally at home in a farmhouse kitchen, a cottage-inspired space, or alongside colorful vintage cookware.

Shop More Deals

• Kate Spade New York Hot Hot Hot Peppers and Spring Time Dot Kitchen Towels 4-Pack Set, $25 (was $40) at Amazon
• Kate Spade New York Botanical Stripe Kitchen Towels 4-Pack Set, $30 (was $34) at Amazon
• Kate Spade New York Vintage Cherry Dot 4-Piece Rectangular Storage Set, $22 (was $34) at Amazon

Beyond its charming design, every piece is 100% cotton and made for everyday use. The dual-purpose cotton towels are highly absorbent and lint-free, making them just as effective for polishing wine glasses as they are for drying dishes or cleaning up everyday spills. The oven mitt and pot holder feature a quilted, heat-resistant lining that adds insulation while maintaining flexibility, and the soft exterior offers a comfortable grip when handling hot pots, pans, and baking dishes. Printed with durable pigment on breathable cotton, the entire set is machine washable, so it stays looking fresh through everyday cooking, baking, and entertaining.

Shoppers couldn’t get enough of the “super cute” and “pretty” cherry design, saying the set “brightens up the room.” One reviewer specifically praised the towel, calling it “very absorbent.” Another person highlighted the oven mitt and pot holder, noting that you “can’t feel heat” from your cookware through the “thick” construction.

Related: World Market's Chic 3-Tier Rolling Kitchen Island Adds Extra Space to Small Kitchens

A little cherry charm goes a long way. Shop the Kate Spade New York Cherry Dot Kitchen Towel, Oven Mitt and Pot Holder 4-Pack Set at Amazon while it’s marked down over 40%!

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.

Paul Davis had already built a remarkable career as a singer and songwriter when a terrifying encounter outside a Nashville hotel nearly ended his life.

On July 29, 1986, the country hitmaker was leaving a hotel on Music Row with a female companion when an unidentified man approached them and demanded Davis' wallet. Davis was shot once in the abdomen during the attempted robbery and rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where he underwent surgery.

Davis, then 38, was hospitalized in critical condition following the shooting, according to contemporary reports. A Billboard report published shortly afterward said he was later listed in good condition at Vanderbilt.

The incident came at an especially significant point in Davis' career.

Though he was best known for pop and adult-contemporary hits including "I Go Crazy," "Cool Night" and "'65 Love Affair," Davis had moved to Nashville in 1984 and was establishing himself as an important songwriter in country music.

The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame notes that he wrote relatively few songs each year, but an unusually high percentage became successful.

Among his biggest Nashville successes was "Bop," which Davis co-wrote with Jennifer Kimball. Dan Seals' recording became a major country hit and earned the 1986 Country Music Association Award for Single of the Year, while Davis was recognized as the song's co-writer.

Davis had also written "Meet Me in Montana," which became a No. 1 country hit for Seals and Marie Osmond in 1985.

And the shooting happened just as another song Davis had written was beginning its journey up the country charts.

"You're Still New to Me," written by Davis and Paul Overstreet and recorded by Osmond, 66, with Davis, was released in July 1986. The romantic duet eventually reached No. 1 on the Billboard country chart, giving Davis another major career milestone.

After surviving the shooting, Davis' career in country music continued.

The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame says Davis signed another recording contract after the incident, although he became frustrated with being pigeonholed as a country artist.

He ultimately never released another album.

The shooting became part of a larger conversation about crime around Nashville's Music Row. A contemporary 1986 trade publication noted that Davis himself later expressed appreciation for coverage of crime in the area after recovering from the gunshot wounds.

Davis eventually stepped away from the spotlight, but his influence as a songwriter continued. His songs were recorded by artists including Osmond, Tanya Tucker and Seals, and his compositions remained an important part of the country music story of the 1980s.

Davis died in 2008 at age 60, a day after his birthday, after suffering a heart attack.

RELATED: The Gift Elvis Presley Gave to a 5-Year-Old Fan in 1974 Was Auctioned 15 Years Later

Radiohead's 1992 rock song "Creep" was initially a major flop in the band's home country, but the track later became an international hit and one of the most recognizable alternative rock songs of the decade.

Released in the United Kingdom on Sept. 21, 1992, "Creep" sold only about 6,000 copies and reached No. 78 on the UK singles chart. BBC Radio 1 reportedly refused to play the song, calling it "too depressing." The poor response was so disappointing that EMI/Parlophone eventually stopped printing new copies of the single, according to Ultimate Classic Rock.

But the story of "Creep" did not end there.

The song began finding listeners outside the U.K., first gaining unexpected radio support in Israel before spreading to countries including Australia, New Zealand and Spain. In the United States, alternative radio stations picked up the track, helping it grow from a slow-burning underground favorite into a mainstream success.

Studio portrait of Radiohead members Phil Selway, Jonny Greenwood, Thom Yorke, Colin Greenwood, Ed O'Brien, Luna Theater, Brussels, Belgium, in December 1995.

Photo by Gie Knaeps/Getty Images

By 1993, "Creep" had reached No. 2 on the U.S. Billboard Alternative chart and No. 34 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its music video also received heavy exposure on MTV, turning Radiohead into a much bigger name in the international rock scene.

The song's success eventually forced a change of course in the U.K. After Radiohead returned from a U.S. tour and saw how strongly audiences connected with the track, the band agreed to reissue it. The 1993 re-release reached No. 7 on the UK singles chart, nearly a year after its original release had failed.

How Radiohead's "Creep" Became a Global Rock Hit

"Creep" was not even planned as Radiohead's debut single.

The Oxfordshire band, then still building its career after performing under the name On A Friday, had signed with EMI in 1991 and changed its name to Radiohead. While recording their debut album, Pablo Honey, producers Sean Slade and Paul Q. Kolderie were working with the band on other songs.

During one rehearsal, Radiohead suddenly played "Creep," a song Thom Yorke had written while he was a student at the University of Exeter in the late 1980s.

The producers initially thought the song was a cover because of Yorke's joking reference to Scott Walker. Once they learned that "Creep" was an original Radiohead song, they pushed the band to record it.

The first recording made a strong impression.

Kolderie later recalled: "At the end, everyone in the place was silent for a moment and then they burst into applause. I'd never had that happen before.”

Per ABC.net, Drummer Philip Selway also explained why the recording had such a raw feeling: "We were just warming up for another track; the reason it sounds so powerful is because it's completely unselfconscious."

The song also became known for its sudden blasts of guitar noise before the chorus. The sound came from guitarist Jonny Greenwood, who initially disliked the track and tried to disrupt it.

The song's lyrics focused on feelings of obsession, insecurity and not belonging. 

The unexpected turnaround began in Israel, where DJ Yoav Kutner helped put "Creep" into heavy radio rotation. The song then gained attention in other countries before reaching American alternative radio.

A key moment came when an import copy reached San Francisco alternative station Live 105, also known as KITS. The track began receiving airplay and soon spread to other stations. By the end of 1992 and into 1993, "Creep" was becoming a major alternative rock hit across the United States.

The song arrived at a time when American listeners were looking for new alternative and grunge acts following the huge success of Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit." "Creep" fit the era's sound with its loud-and-quiet dynamics, distorted guitars and emotionally vulnerable lyrics.

"Creep" also became a major success in Australia, where it reached No. 6 on the ARIA chart, and in other countries around the world. In the United States, it peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Alternative chart and No. 34 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The song's rise also brought a complicated problem for Radiohead. As the track became a global hit, the band worried that listeners would see them only as the group behind "Creep." Radiohead wanted to move toward a more ambitious and experimental sound, which became clear on later albums such as The Bends and OK Computer.

Yorke eventually became openly critical of the song.

“I wasn’t very happy with the lyrics; I thought they were pretty crap,” Yorke told Rolling Stone. He also said he did not feel full ownership of the track: “When we play it, it feels like we’re doing a cover.”

Despite the band's complicated relationship with it, "Creep" remained Radiohead's most successful single. The song has been covered by numerous performers, including Alanis Morissette, Prince, Jim Carrey, Weezer, Korn, Kelly Clarkson, Olivia Rodrigo and others.

In 2021, Yorke also released "Creep (Very 2021 Rmx)," a nine-minute remix based on a time-stretched acoustic version of the song, featuring eerie synthesizers.

The original "Creep" has also continued to reach new audiences decades after its release. In April 2024, the song surpassed 1 billion views on YouTube, adding another milestone to the long history of a track that was once dismissed in its own country.

What began as an unplanned studio performance, an unsuccessful U.K. single and a song rejected by BBC Radio 1 eventually became an international rock anthem. For Radiohead, "Creep" opened the door to worldwide success, even as the band later spent much of its career moving beyond the sound that first made it famous.

Related: 1984 Rock Song, Lasting Nearly 14 Minutes, Is Still a Powerful Hit 42 Years Later