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’90s Rock Band Goo Goo Dolls Announce 2 Exclusive Hometown Shows After Last Year’s Sold-Out Concerts
The Goo Goo Dolls are going home again. The Buffalo-born band has announced the second annual edition of its hometown benefit concerts, and this year’s run comes with plenty to celebrate.
The band will take the stage at Town Ballroom on Friday, Nov. 20, and Saturday, Nov. 21, with every dollar from both shows going directly to FeedMore WNY, the region’s hunger-relief organization. For Western New York fans, it’s a chance to see a local favorite up close while helping neighbors in need. Tickets go on sale Friday, Oct. 2, through the Goo Goo Dolls’ website.
View this post on InstagramThe concerts follow a strong start last year, when two sold-out shows on Nov. 19 and 20 raised $150,000 for FeedMore WNY. The band hopes to top that total this time around.
“I’m just showing up and playing a bunch of songs,” singer John Rzeznik said in an interview with Nicholas Picholas from KISS 98.5, per Audacy. “You guys are the ones that are driving this. Everybody who came to the shows last year and everybody who’s going to come this year, I just want you to know all of your money’s going to FeedMore, and that you’re proving again that Buffalo is the ‘City of Good Neighbors.'”
Rzeznik and Robby Takac formed the Goo Goo Dolls in Buffalo in 1986. Nearly four decades later, the group has sold more than 15 million records worldwide and earned four Grammy nominations. Their 1998 hit “Iris” has racked up more than 6 billion streams and has been covered by artists including Taylor Swift, Machine Gun Kelly, Phoebe Bridgers and Maggie Rogers.
NEW YORK, NY – NOVEMBER 21: Taylor Swift and Johnny Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls perform during the “Speak Now World Tour” at Madison Square Garden on November 21, 2011 in New York City. Taylor Swift wrapped up the North American leg of her SPEAK NOW WORLD TOUR with two sold-out shows at Madison Square Garden this week. In 2011, the tour played to capacity crowds in stadiums and arenas over 98 shows in 17 countries spanning three continents, and will continue in 2012 with shows Australia and New Zealand. (Photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images)The band’s hometown is honoring its 40-year career, too. On Sept. 16, the Buffalo History Museum opened “Long Way Home,” an exhibit created with help from Rzeznik, Takac and others. It features rare photos from the people who documented the band’s earliest club gigs, along with memorabilia, fan experiences and stories, plus a look at Buffalo from the 1980s to today.
Between the sold-out benefit shows and a museum exhibit celebrating their story, it’s a full-circle moment for a band that never strayed far from its roots. For Buffalo fans, a night at Town Ballroom this November means great music and a meaningful way to give back, right where it all began.
British TV Writer Drops Major Update on Potential Spice Girls Drama
While fans may still be holding out for a Spice Girls reunion tour, they may be getting a TV series about the iconic girl group instead.
“I’ve been developing something that is, I would say, more than a music biopic — it’s like a sort of fun comedy drama,” British TV writer Jack Rooke said on a recent episode of the BBC’s Sidetracked with Annie and Nick podcast. “So there has been a script written with me and a lovely little group of gals and gays.”
“But that’s all I can say,” he admitted. “And we don’t know what’s going on with it. Maybe one day, if people would like to watch that, that would be amazing. I would love for the Spice Girls themselves to love that too. And those discussions are ongoing, so we’ll see.”
https://open.spotify.com/episode/1WZGS0E9h1cW51N4V74Co6?si=O9bVyLFpTQuMEl10amQOOQ
According to The Sun, the series would be on Netflix and has been in the works for quite a while, having faced stops along the way due to filming logistics, as well as the group, consisting of Victoria Beckham, Mel B, Mel C, Emma Bunton, and Geri Halliwell-Horner, not being completely on board.
Rooke, a comedian known for creating the U.K. series Big Boys, also said he hopes to showcase the group’s legacy if the show ever comes to fruition.
“For me, they represent the first time that I think we saw working-class women be ambitious in British pop culture,” he said. “It [became] what I think we have today, which is so many more women in the media and so many more women in music being loud and outspoken and being particularly British.”
Related: Spice Girls’ 30th Anniversary Announcement Was Not What Fans ‘Really Really Want’
The conversation also comes a few weeks after the “Wannabe” singers announced that they’re releasing a vinyl record and other merchandise to celebrate 30 years since their debut, following a major tease that led fans to think they were reuniting for a tour.
And while the last time they formally toured together was in 2019, without Beckham, rumors continue to fly about whether the girls would get back together to perform.
One thing we can confirm? Mel C would be in, having said last year, ““I would be there tomorrow, obviously.”
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'Evil Dead' Star Says He Was Kicked Out of the Lead in His First Big Movie, Then It Was Re-Edited, Retitled and Never Released
Actors get replaced all the time. The movie comes out anyway, with somebody else in the part.
The first time Bruce Campbell made a movie for a studio, that isn’t how it went.
“The first studio film I ever did, I got kicked out of the lead,” he said in a new interview. “The movie was re-edited, retitled and never came out. So, the taste in my mouth from studios is very sour.”
He doesn’t name it, and by his own account there isn’t much left to name, seeing as it was re-edited, retitled, shelved.
What he does say is what he decided. “It was time to be unbridled in my life.”
Only One Other Film Came Out Clean“The very first movie we did, Evil Dead, was the only other movie I’ve ever done free and clear of the studio system,” he said. “So, I liked the taste of it early on.”
That was 1981. By his own count, nothing in between was free of them.
His wife eventually got tired of hearing about it. “I wanted to do something like this for a long time, and my wife finally said, ‘Quit talking about it. Let’s do it. Let’s pull the trigger. Let’s make this movie.'”
So the Two of Them Made OneHe wrote Ernie & Emma, directed it, produced it and stars in it. His wife, Ida Gearon, produced it alongside him.
He plays a small-town pear salesman whose wife dies and leaves behind a detailed list of instructions for scattering her ashes. The trip runs through Pear Valley, Oregon. They shot all of it in southern Oregon, where they live. That was her idea too.
“She goes, ‘Bruce, we should shoot in Oregon. You should sleep in your own bed. You should [be having lunch] at the house.'”
They Didn’t Argue Once“Best part of working with my wife was that, for once, we didn’t argue,” he said. “We argue a lot and when we made the movie we never argued once because we had a singular goal, singular vision.”
“Boy, my wife, she is rock solid. She’s a good human being from A to Z. I trust her.”
Campbell Has an Incurable CancerHe announced it in March. On a podcast this month he said doctors have given him about five years.
He’s taking Ernie & Emma around the country on a screening tour of Alamo Drafthouse theaters, after independent runs that sold out.
Denise Richards Pays Tribute to Late Ex Patrick Muldoon on First Birthday Since His Death
Actor and Real Housewives star Denise Richards paid tribute to her late ex, Patrick Muldoon, on what would have been his 58th birthday.
Muldoon died suddenly on April 19, 2026, at the age of 57 in his Beverly Hills home. His girlfriend found him unconscious in his bathroom after drunk his morning coffee and went to take a shower. It was reported that he had died from a myocardial infarction, or heart attack, with pulmonary embolism and hereditary coagulopathy also listed as contributing factors.
Richards, 55, posted a photo on Instagram on Sunday of the two of them on an airport tarmac. She revealed it was a photo of their “last hug saying goodbye” before the actor’s death. The two had just gotten off a flight from Scotland, where they spent a weekend with the fans and cast of Starship Troopers.
She added that Muldoon was always “so humble” and loved seeing the actor excited to be driven off the tarmac in a fancy car. Richards also revealed that during their last time together, they spoke of meeting up in the future.
“We hung out in the lounge waiting for luggage talking about what a fun weekend we all had, I haven’t laughed that hard in a long time… we talked about plans of getting together & gave each other a hug and that was the last time…. today is your birthday…,” wrote Richards.
“I know you know, how hard it is for all of us. It’s taken me all day to even post this..This is hard. I feel you and see all your signs. Well I’m sure not all because these big ones show up , I laugh out loud hearing you say “Schweetbabe how do you not see what I’ve been putting in front of you ?!? Now do you get it?”
Richards also included a photo of her daughter Eloise and Muldoon at LA Comic Con and said that she “wouldn’t leave your side.” The Wild Things star recalls how Eloise was “giggling all day” because of him and loved helping him sign autographs for fans
“She lit up today when I told her it’s your bday and when I reminded her of last year she started laughing thinking about you. Wow… never did I think that would be your last birthday here that I would see you. I love you so much schweetbabe … more than my best friend, my family,” wrote Richards.
She and Muldoon had known each other since before starring in Starship Troopers, having met in acting class. The two dated for several years on and off, with Richards having once commented that it was roughly five years. The 1997 film made their relationship more public until their breakup around 2000. Despite having ended it, the two remained close and were a part of each other’s lives up until Muldoon’s death.
Johannah Duggar Is Married — and Her Husband's Sister Is Already Part of the Family
Counting On star Johannah Duggar is married to David Swanson—and her new husband’s sister is already part of the family.
On Sept. 10, Johannah and David said “I do” in Omaha, Ark., county records confirm, per Us Weekly, following much fan speculation.
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Johannah, 20, is Michelle and Jim Bob Duggar‘s 16th of 19 children. She is also the sixth out of nine daughters, and the second of the Duggar siblings whose birth was documented on TLC’s 19 Kids and Counting.
Meanwhile, David, 23, is the younger brother of Lauren Swanson—who is married to Johannah’s older brother, Josiah Duggar. Lauren’s parents, Dwain and Lana Swanson, have 10 children in total. Interestingly, there was previously a third Duggar-Swanson wedding in the works when James Duggar reportedly got engaged to Lydia Swanson. However, they broke things off before legally sealing the deal.
Another potential “double cousin” situation involves Jana Duggar, who is married to Stephen Wissmann, and Jeremiah Duggar, who is married to Hannah Wissmann. (Yes, Stephen and Hannah are also siblings!)
View this post on InstagramAlthough many Duggar siblings have publicly announced courtships and engagements, in recent years, they have opted to keep their relationship details private. The most recent Duggars to marry were Jana and Stephen, who married in August 2024, as well as Jason Duggar, who married Madison “Maddie” Grace Jones on October 3, 2024.
The Duggars starred in 19 Kids on Counting for 10 seasons from 2008 to 2015, followed by Counting On for 11 seasons from 2015 to 2020.
Next: Joy-Anna Duggar Announces Major Family News: “God Knew We Needed You”
Are 'A Different World' Stars Cornell Young IV and Maleah Joi Moon Dating Off-Screen?
Has Cornell Young IV and Maleah Joi Moon’s on-camera chemistry transitioned to an off-screen romance? Fans believe so.
Wayne two, who star in the Netflix reboot of A Different World as Shaquille Johnson and Deborah Wade, respectively, have fans of the show speculating whether they’re dating in real life. Social media investigators have spotted the two hanging out, seemingly without their co-stars, at private celebrations.
The YBF shared in a social media post that Young surprised Moon at her birthday celebration recently, down on one knee with a cake as she happily smiled and shed a few tears in shock.She also hugged Young’s mom in the video. A separate video showed Moon alongside Young in his hometown of St. Louis for his watch party. In one photo, the two cozied up on the red carpet.
The comment section of the post has fans happy at the idea of the two being a real-life item. “She snatched that up before it hit stores” is the perfect way to articulate it LMAO who could shame a woman for going after what feels right. They are a very attractive pairing,” one commented. “The way she hugged his Mama after she blew out that cake .. yes , they’re in love 😂❤️❤️❤️❤️” another wrote.
Young has been everyone’s man crush Monday on social media, with many noting his light eyes, tall stature, and long locs. One user commented, “He looks like a real life version of the men in my romance books. 😍” With the rumors that he’s with his leading lady, some women online have happily taken their L. “& he locked in while she’s blowing her candles out ? he’s taken ladies 😂 we gotta fall back,” one commented.
Others say their potential relationship can be a public relations ploy to get eyes on the show. “Y’all so funny lol. It’s prob just PR and it’s smart ✨” one wrote. Another wrote, “They understand the PR assignment and I’m here for it !”
Only time will tell if they’re together. But if they are, they make a stunning couple.
'A Different World' Star, 63, Responds to Criticism That She Looks Older 35 Years Later: 'The Internet Can Be Brutal'
More than 30 years after A Different World ended, the kids from Hillman College are back in a new Netflix reboot that reunites some of the original series’ most beloved characters while adding a new generation of Hillman students and offspring into the mix. The original series ran on NBC from 1987 to 1993, making stars of show favorites like Kadeem Hardison, Jasmine Guy, Darryl M. Bell and Cree Summer.
Several familiar faces return, including Hardison as Dwayne, Guy as Whitley, Summer as Freddie and Bell as Ron Johnson. The reboot offers fans something most TV revivals can’t: a chance to see what happened to the beloved characters they grew up with while meeting the new generation that came after them.
For the original cast members, it’s a chance to portray their characters at very different stages of life, from college students to more mature parents and adults, now in their late 50s and 60s. For Jasmine Guy, whose portrayal of Hillman’s resident snob Whitley Gilbert made her a household name, the reboot has also come with criticism about her looks.
Jasmine Guy Responds to Criticism About Her Appearance View this post on InstagramIn a very Whitley response, Guy took to social media to directly address the conversation, writing, “The internet can be brutal to women as we grow older. It asks us to celebrate life while criticizing every sign that we’ve lived it.
“Growing older brings change, and I won’t pretend every change is easy. But beauty, style, and joy don’t have an expiration date. Let’s spend less time judging ourselves and each other, and more time loving each other, making memories, and living the life we’re here to live.”
Fans quickly joined the conversation, writing, “She shouldn’t have to defend her looks,” with another adding, “May we never diminish the extraordinary privilege of having lived long enough to become.”
The A Different World Reboot Is About More Than Nostalgia @ninabae2020Everybody talks about the wedding scene, but this scene here😮💨 #differentworld #90sthrowback #blacklove #wedding #blackwedding
♬ original sound – 🌹Amaris🌹Jasmine Guy’s response is a reminder of the bigger story here. The A Different World reboot is about the passage of time. Nearly 40 years have passed since audiences were first introduced to the students of Hillman College.
Now Guy is returning as the same character, but as a 63-year-old woman, while the fictional daughter she and Dwayne raised becomes the new generation’s central character.
The characters have aged. The actors have aged. The original audience has aged as well.
The show gives viewers a chance to see the passage of time rather than pretending it didn’t happen. And perhaps that is what makes seeing these familiar faces return so meaningful: They aren’t being frozen in the moment audiences first fell in love with them. They’ve lived, changed and grown right alongside the viewers who watched them all those years ago.
Related: Former ‘Sexiest Man Alive,’ 85, Makes Rare Appearance as His Career Enters a New Chapter
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Chipotle Just Revived a Discontinued Fan Favorite—And It’s Returning for $6
If you’ve spent any time scrolling through food TikTok or fast-casual nostalgia threads over the last few years, you already know how much fans miss Chipotle’s original house margaritas. After years of viral throwback videos and relentless comments begging the company to “run it back,” the restaurant giant is officially raising the beverage from the grave.
Chipotle Mexican Grill has announced a “Summon the Spirits Tour,” a five-city pop-up event that will resurrect its classic margarita recipe every weekend throughout October. Served up for just $6, the limited-run drink features the original five-ingredient recipe that made it a cult favorite before it vanished from standard store menus.
Here’s everything you need to know about the tour schedule, where to find the $6 pop-up bars and how the event ties into Chipotle’s annual Boorito Halloween tradition.
Related: Chipotle Brings Back Fan-Favorite Menu Item and Launches an Unforgettable New Side Dish
Unlike many commercial chain cocktails that rely on pre-mixed sour bases, artificial flavors or excess syrups, Chipotle built its original drink around simple, real ingredients that mirror its kitchen philosophy.
Guests 21 and older who visit the pop-up stops can grab a fresh $6 Chipotle Margarita crafted with:
- Premium tequila
- Triple sec
- Citrus juice
- Agave nectar
- A fresh lime wedge
“Fans never stopped talking about our margaritas after they left the menu, so Halloween felt like the perfect time to revive a Chipotle classic,” said Stephanie Perdue, Senior Vice President of Brand Marketing at Chipotle. “For five weekends, we’re giving fans the chance to rediscover the iconic Chipotle Margarita, made with just five real ingredients and the same simplicity we bring to our food.”
Related: Chipotle Just Started Testing Crispy Chicken—and Fans Already Want It Nationwide
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.
To celebrate the limited-time revival, Chipotle is transforming select store areas into Halloween-themed pop-up bars. Each venue will feature a dedicated margarita bar, immersive spooky décor, interactive photo moments and chances for guests to win exclusive Chipotle prizes and merch.
The $6 drink will be available at one specific Chipotle restaurant every Friday and Saturday in October from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM local time.
Here’s the complete five-city schedule and address lineup:
1. Denver, Colorado (Oct. 2 & 3)- Address: 2760 S. Colorado Blvd., Denver, CO 80222
- Theme: Where the Spirit Began — The tour kicks off in Chipotle’s original founding city, bringing the cocktail back to where the brand’s story first started in 1993.
- Address: 185 Montague St., Brooklyn, NY 11201
- Theme: Spirits in the City — Taking over a high-traffic Brooklyn storefront for an East Coast weekend party.
- Address: 2401 Victory Park Lane, Dallas, TX 75219
- Theme: Where Spirits Freeze — Stopping in the birthplace of the world’s first frozen margarita machine, Dallas will be the only stop on the tour serving an exclusive frozen variation alongside the classic rocks recipe.
- Address: 7660 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90046
- Theme: Summon the Stars — Bringing the pop-up bar directly to Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood.
- Address: 2801 Magazine St., New Orleans, LA 70115
- Theme: Where Spirits Never Rest — The grand finale lands in the Garden District of America’s most famously haunted city for Halloween weekend.
Related: The Chipotle Ordering Hack Fans Call ‘Life-Changing’
How the Tour Prepares Fans for the Return of ‘Boorito’The October pop-up tour serves as the lead-in to Chipotle’s biggest annual event: Boorito.
The fan-favorite Halloween tradition will officially return to stores nationwide on Saturday, Oct. 31. While details regarding this year’s specific costume discount and in-restaurant entrée deals are being kept under wraps until later in October, the company confirmed that the New Orleans margarita stop will overlap directly with Halloween night celebrations.
For fans living in Denver, New York, Dallas, Los Angeles or New Orleans, planning your visit between 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM on tour dates is the only way to taste the five-ingredient margarita before the pop-up bars disappear again.
Related: Chipotle Just Fixed the Worst Part of Their Rewards Program — and Added Free Food
First Look: Fresh Off Arrest, 'Beyond the Gates' Villain Delivers 'Sideswiping' New Move
Beyond the Gates fans were stunned last week when Haley Hamilton’s (Marquita Goings) plan to kill her husband Bill Hamilton (Timon Kyle Durrett) was exposed. But despite being arrested, it appears that there is one more move up Haley’s sleeve, but what is it? Parade has your first look at Episode 377, which airs on Monday, September 28, 2026.
The CBS soap opera provided four first-look photos from Monday’s installment.
Beyond The Gates on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with Showtime subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)*. Pictured: Timon Kyle Durrett as Bill Hamilton and Marquita Goings as Hayley Lawson. Photo: CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Highest quality screengrab available.The first two photos show the fallout of Haley confronting her husband Bill following her arrest and finding out her master plan to kill him and take his fortune.
Beyond The Gates on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with Showtime subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)*. Pictured: Timon Kyle Durrett as Bill Hamilton and Marquita Goings as Hayley Lawson. Photo: CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Highest quality screengrab available.Official spoilers for the day teased, “Hayley has another trick up her sleeve. Bill is sideswiped.”
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Beyond The Gates on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with Showtime subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)*. Pictured: Lami as Izaiah and Colby Nixon and Katherine Richardson. Photo: CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Highest quality screengrab available.Elsewhere, Kat Richardson (Colby Nixon) is seen conversing with Izaiah Hawthorne (Lami), with spoilers hinting that she comes to him in a moment of crisis.
Beyond The Gates on the CBS Television Network and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with Showtime subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)*. Pictured: Daphnee Duplaix as Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson, RhonniRose Mantilla as Chelsea Hamilton, Clifton Davis as Vernon Dupree and Tamara Tunie as Anita Dupree. Photo: CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Highest quality screengrab available.The last photo shows Nicole (Daphnee Duplaix) gathered at her ‘parents’ house, speaking to her mother, Anita (Tamara Tunie), and father, Vernon (Clifton Davis), while her niece, Chelsea Hamilton (RhonniRose Mantilla), overhears. Spoilers tease that Nicole “puts her foot in her mouth” in today’s episode. What is she saying?
Not pictured but expected to air, Shanice and Ashley face career challenges, while Smitty fears Jacob is dodging him.
Beyond the Gates airs weekdays on CBS and streams weeknights on Paramount+. Viewers can also catch up on Beyond the Gates from the beginning on Paramount+, Tubi, and Pluto’s dedicated 24/7 Beyond the Gates FAST channel.
Sam's Club's Spicy $18 Freezer Find Is an 'All-Time Favorite' Shoppers Buy 'Every Visit'
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Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding an entire family, certain days of the week call for an easy meal. And while dining out or ordering food for delivery can certainly be a solid solution, it’s also nice to know which grocery staples you can rely on to put together a home-cooked meal just as easily.
That’s where Sam’s Club comes in with a fan-favorite freezer staple that retails for an easy $17.57 while providing multiple days’ worth of meal ideas in one three-pound bag. Now in stores and available online, the Member’s Mark Spicy Breaded Chicken Breast Fillets are your ticket to no-fuss meals that might even remind you of your favorite fast-food joint.
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Member’s Mark Spicy Breaded Chicken Breast Fillets, $17.57 at Sam’s Club @samsclubfavorites🌶️ Member’s Mark Spicy Chicken Breast Fillets are a new freezer find at Sam’s Club that look perfect for easy meals! These are fully cooked breaded chicken breast fillets with a medium 2/5 spice level, so you’re getting some heat without going completely overboard. 🔥 I immediately thought of making crispy spicy chicken sandwiches with these! 🥪 ($17.57) #samsclub #samsclubfinds
♬ original sound – Sam’s Club Favorites Shop It!Spotted by @samsclubfavorites, who quickly shared the news with viewers online, Member’s Mark Spicy Breaded Chicken Breast Fillets are a new freezer find that’s already earned rave reviews from fans for being an easy mealtime solution. Sold in a three-pound bag for just $18, it contains eight mouthwatering fillets made with top-quality, succulent chicken and seasoned with a blend of cayenne pepper, paprika and garlic.
Made from 100 percent genuine, hormone-free and antibiotic-free chicken, each piece provides roughly 28 grams of protein, plus the ultimate convenience of preparing a scrumptious meal in minutes. And thanks to each fillet’s crispy breading, you get a satisfying crunch followed by a juicy, tender center with every single bite. Perfect for streamlining hectic weeknight dinners or as a quick, midday refuel, this bag of chicken is ideal for chicken sandwiches, fresh salads or as a standalone main course alongside your favorite dipping sauce.
Fans Say We Have Chick-fil-A at Home“I immediately thought of making crispy spicy chicken sandwiches with these,” @samsclubfavorites captioned their post on TikTok and Instagram, to which a handful of viewers immediately chimed in with excitement.
“I got these and they are good real chicken pieces, not the grounded up chicken,” one fan shared. “Plus, the patties are huge.”
Another commenter said that the bag had already become their “all-time favorite,” adding that they like to use it for chicken wraps, while another shopper offered an even better idea: “You can make Chick-fil-A at home with the Sam’s waffle fries.”
Adding to the appeal of this must-try freezer find, cooking couldn’t be any easier. Air fry a fillet at 370°F for 10 minutes, flip, then cook for another four to five minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 156°F. For the oven, heat at 375°F for 17 minutes, flip, then cook for another 15–18 minutes. You can also microwave a fillet on high for two minutes, flip, then heat for another one to two minutes if you’re in a pinch.
Pick up a bag of these tasty spicy fillets upon your next Sam’s Club visit, and while you’re there, keep an eye out for Sam’s Club’s six-count French Toast Bagels and Magnum Mini Double Caramel Vanilla Ice Cream Bars, too.
Related: Hobby Lobby’s $5 Glassware Comes From a ‘Duck Dynasty’ Star’s Elegant New Home Collection
A Cleveland Clinic Gastroenterologist Says This Habit Has ‘The Biggest Impact on Digestion’ (Hint: It’s Not Fiber)
When you’re dealing with the uncomfortable reality of chronic bloating, painful gas or sluggish trips to the bathroom, your immediate instinct is likely to look at what’s sitting on your dinner plate.
Millions of people spend years endlessly tweaking their daily menus, stocking up on high-fiber bran, eating heaps of leafy greens or shelling out hard-earned money for expensive probiotic supplements in hopes of finding a cure for their persistent GI woes. It feels like the most logical path forward because we naturally assume that what goes into our stomachs dictates how well our gut functions. However, if you’ve ever eaten a clean, fiber-dense meal and still found yourself uncomfortably bloated by mid-afternoon, you know firsthand how frustrating and defeating that trial-and-error process can be.
Related: 6 Oncologists Agree—This Is the Coffee Habit You Should Never Skip
According to top medical experts, focusing solely on your diet means you’re missing the most vital piece of the overall digestive puzzle. While nutrition certainly supplies the raw materials your body needs, a leading gastroenterologist reveals that there’s a completely different daily lifestyle routine that plays a much more direct, powerful role in keeping your digestive tract moving smoothly. In fact, this single habit has a far greater influence on gut motility than any superfood or supplement you could buy at the grocery store. The secret to unlocking real, lasting digestive comfort isn’t about what you swallow, but rather how you physically engage your body every single day.
As Dr. Christine Lee, MD, a gastroenterologist at Cleveland Clinic, previously told Parade, movement itself is actually hugely important for gut health. “Exercise has the biggest impact on digestion,” she explained.
To help illustrate why focusing on diet alone often fails to resolve sluggish gut issues, Dr. Lee used a vivid automotive analogy: “When people focus on what foods to eat, it’s like focusing on the highest quality gasoline in your car. If your motor stinks, even the best, highest quality gasoline is not going to make that car run.”
Related: The ‘Healthy’ Habit That’s Silently Damaging Your Kidneys
She noted that our intestinal tract is essentially our body’s internal plumbing system, and it’s made entirely of muscle tissue. “You need muscle for strength and movement,” Dr. Lee shared. “You need something to digest the food. If you don’t have the intestinal tract to digest food and break it down, you won’t get the biggest bang for your buck… The exercise keeps your intestinal tract strong and muscular and moving.”
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While general aerobic activities like walking, jogging or cycling are wonderful for overall cardiovascular health and blood circulation, Dr. Lee stressed that we shouldn’t skimp on targeted strength work if we want to transform our gut health. Specifically, core-focused exercise—or targeted resistance training for your midsection—is where you get the absolute most digestive value.
She highlighted resistance training that directly targets the midsection, noting that “we don’t have an intestinal tract in our quads or calf muscles.” When you strengthen your abdominal wall and deeper core muscles, you provide physical support and promote vital mechanical contractions around your internal digestive organs.
To build that core foundation, Dr. Lee noted that Pilates is a standout choice because “it uses resistance training, whether it’s TRX or rubber bands or weights.”
Strengthening the muscles surrounding your abdominal cavity creates a natural, gentle compression that massages the internal organs and encourages steady motility. Furthermore, integrating continuous physical engagement throughout your routine prevents waste from lingering.
If you don’t have time for a formal 30- to 40-minute gym workout, Dr. Lee emphasized that you don’t need expensive fitness classes to reap these rewards. Common household chores like vacuuming, raking leaves, mulching or pulling weeds all engage your core naturally.
“Keep moving,” Dr. Lee advised. “Park further away on purpose. Try not to farm out housework chores or yard work.” By focusing on maintaining a straight back while completing daily tasks, Dr. Lee explained that “you’ll get core exercise out of it, you just won’t realize it.”
Simple Daily Strategies To Keep Your Internal Plumbing System MovingAlthough targeted physical activity drives the mechanical engine of digestion, nutrition still serves as an essential partner once the motor is running smoothly. Once your digestive system is actively moving through regular core-focused exercise, eating a varied, high-fiber diet ensures your body receives the nutrient diversity and bulk it needs to thrive.
Ignoring physical signs of poor motility—such as persistent bloating, cramping, gas or sluggish bowel movements—can signal that waste is simply sitting in the digestive tract for far too long. As Dr. Lee warned, “Those are signs that waste is building up, and you might need to get some help, whether it’s exercising to improve blood flow and muscular contraction so you have better motility or improving foods you eat.”
Engaging your midsection regularly boosts localized blood flow and triggers natural muscular contractions, helping your body eliminate waste effectively and keep your system running smoothly every single day.
Adapted from Parade’s “Gastroenterologists Swear by This One Habit for Better Gut Health” by Beth Ann Mayer.
Up Next:
Source- Dr. Christine Lee, MD, a gastroenterologist at Cleveland Clinic
Milania Giudice's Airport Breakdown: Bodycam Reveals Fentanyl Use and Family Conflict
More details about the airport breakdown Milania Giudice experienced are being released. And according to bodycam footage released by TMZ, the 20-year-old’s mom, The Real Housewives of New Jersey star Teresa Giudice, says Milania had fentanyl in her system at the time of the incident.
In the bodycam footage, an angry and at times erratic and out-of-control Milania is seen yelling expletives, threatening to never speak to her mother again, and revealing that she’d recently been released from a psych ward. While in the airport elevator, Teresa responds to Milania that she is simply trying to save her life, as Milania vows to cut off contact with her for getting the airport police involved.
Reports surfaced that Teresa, along with her elder daughter Gia, contacted authorities when Milania attempted to flee the airport. In the video, Teresa tells Milania she doesn’t care if she stops speaking with her, but that she needs to get help before telling authorities Milania had fentanyl in her system, which Milania claims was due to her having it in her system because whatever she took was “laced.” Milania also threatens to release footage to social media of videos she took of her mom and sister, getting the police involved. Gia responds that she’s numb to Milania’s behavior.
At another point in the video, Milania is resistant to the police and asks to vape, which they deny. One officer tells her to be quiet and that she’s not in control of the situation, as Milania requests her mother. She then starts screaming Teresa’s name, telling her to run to her because she’s the one who got authorities involved.
Police also revealed that Milania was recently released from a facility following a Baker Act evaluation, and the family hired a counselor to help Milania. Milania’s rep previously told the outlet she was under the care of professionals as she grieves the tragic and unexpected death of her best friend, Victoria Zardoya.
The airport meltdown comes after Milania was arrested earlier this year for assault. She reportedly got into a verbal spat with her sisters, threw items at them, and also punched a man in the home believed to be her stepfather, Luis Ruelas.
Melissa Joan Hart & Full Cast of 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch' Announce 15-City Reunion Tour
Thirty years after the hit supernatural sitcom Sabrina the Teenage Witch debuted, many of the show’s original cast members, including star Melissa Joan Hart, will celebrate the milestone anniversary with a 15-city tour of live shows.
Sabrina Cast Reunion: 30 Year Anniversary Live kicks off on Halloween in Beverly, Massachusetts, just outside Salem, and runs through December 12. At each show, per People, cast members will “share stories from behind the scenes, favorite memories and bloopers, along with live skits, musical moments and other surprises celebrating three decades of Sabrina.”
The tour follows a successful one-night reunion the cast held in Chicago in April. Afterwards, Hart posted a recap on social media, thanking “the 900 fans who came out to see us and celebrated with us! From belly laughs, bloopers and silly skits, we were overwhelmed with love and nostalgia!”
Which Sabrina Cast Members Are Going On Tour? Members of the ‘Sabrina the Teenage Witch’ cast Caroline Rhea, Elisa Donovan, Nate Richert, Melissa Joan Hart, Jenna Leigh Green, and Beth Broderick reunited at 90s Con on March 18, 2023 in Hartford, Connecticut.Astrida Valigorsky / Getty Images
Hart, who played teen witch Sabrina, will be joined on the road by a full lineup of cast members including Beth Broderick, Caroline Rhea, Soleil Moon Frye, Nate Richert, Michelle Beaudoin, Jenna Leigh Green, Elisa Donovan and David Lascher.
The sitcom, which ran for seven seasons, with 163 episodes airing from 1996 to 2003, was about teenager Sabrina Spellman, who learns on her 16th birthday that her family members are witches who possess magical powers, and that she does, too. Sabrina lives with her 600-year-old aunts — free-spirited Aunt Hilda (Rhea) and the more serious Aunt Zelda (Broderick) — and their sarcastic black cat Salem (voiced by Nick Bakay).
Sabrina the Teenage Witch Tour Stops & Ticket DetailsPre-sale tickets opened on September 28 (use the code SALEM), and general tickets will be available on Wednesday, September 30. All tickets are available here.
Here is a rundown of the cities, venues and dates where Sabrina Cast Reunion: 30 Year Anniversary Live will be stopping in 2026:
- October 31: The Cabot in Beverly, Massachusetts
- November 1: Uptown Theater in Providence, Rhode Island
- November 7: Barrymore Theatre in Madison, Wisconsin
- November 8: Pantages Theatre in Minneapolis, Minnesota
- November 12: The Plaza Live in Orlando, Florida
- November 13: Ponte Vedra Concert Hall in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida
- November 14: Jaeb Theater at the Straz Center in Tampa, Florida
- November 15: Glazer Hall in Palm Beach, Florida
- December 2: The Danforth Music Hall in Toronto, Ontario
- December 3: Royal Oak Music Theatre in Detroit, Michigan
- December 4: Agora Theatre and Ballroom in Cleveland, Ohio
- December 5: Roxian Theatre in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- December 10: Graton Casino in Rohnert Park, California
- December 11: Tower Theatre in Fresno, California
- December 12: Channel 24 in Sacramento, California
‘The Amazing Race's Phil Keoghan Teases Historic Trip and Heartbreaking Homecoming in Season 39 (Exclusive)
Over 25 years, The Amazing Race has takesn teams — and viewers — to hundreds of cities across 98 countries. But the Emmy-winning series will showcase there’s still much of the world left to explore when it kicks off its 39th season on Wednesday, Sept. 30. One prominent example is when the show will creep ever closer to the country-century mark by visiting a new nation this fall: Albania.
“I had never been there myself personally, and I’ve been to 145 countries, I think, in my life. It’s absolutely fascinating,” host Phil Keoghan tells Parade in an exclusive interview. “The one the things I love about writing the scripts is being able to do the research and digging into fascinating facts about different places. And I had no idea that they had over 150 to 200,000 underground bunkers that were set up for the for the Cold War. Thank God none were ever used because of a nuclear explosion But I found that absolutely fascinating, how they’ve been repurposed some into museums and cafes.”
Indeed, as Keoghan reveals, the remaining teams will actually head into one of those deactivated bunkers, seeing if they can navigate their own possible fallout to avoid losing out on the million-dollar prize.
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“Every time you go to a new country, there’s a freshness to it,” he says. “We haven’t dealt with the food that’s there, the dancing that’s there, the culture that’s there, the humor of the people and the human spirit of that place. Where we had the where we had the Pit Stop, there was there’s a square in the main city, and they’ve got stones from all over the country, spread out over this massive area about the size of maybe four football fields. You get this beautiful mosaic of stone, and that was that’s sort of like ground central in in the city. I really enjoyed it.”
While Keoghan was tittilated by both he and the race getting to visit a new country, it was a return to the familiar that stuck with him the most. Last year, after the end of Season 38, he teased to Parade that the upcoming race would feature “a special episode I took particular interest in ended with a special personal moment in my life.” And now we know what that special episode is — and why it rang so exclusively.
“Well, I’m from New Zealand,” Keoghan says. “I was born in Lincoln, which is just outside Christchurch, New Zealand, in the South Island. Christchurch is the biggest city in the South Island of New Zealand. And if you remember back in 2011, there was a terrible earthquake, and it took the lives of about 151 people. Some of those people were people that I worked with when I first started my career in New Zealand at Television New Zealand and on Gloucester Street in Christchurch. And the CTV Building the which was the broadcast center that collapsed and there were unfortunately there were people that were killed in that building. And I immediately flew home and and I filed a report for CBS News and talked about what people could do to help.
“And I made a promise to the leaders in the city that one day I would come back with Amazing Race if it was still on, and I would show off the new city. I would show the city as a rebuilt city, as a reborn city. Because 80% of the buildings were decimated, or redlined, or earmarked for for demolition. And I’m pleased to say, Season 39, I got to go back and and scout the city and to work with Tourism New Zealand and the tourism team at Canterbury at Christchurch, which is supporting tourism in the area.”
Related: Phil Keoghan Breaks Down ‘The Amazing Race 39’s Newest Twist — And What’s Returning Next (Exclusive)
The Amazing Race 39 will mark the show’s first time in New Zealand since Season 22 all the way back in 2013. But its return couldn’t come at a better — and more trafic — time for Keoghan.
“On a personal level, it was a special time because my dad was in hospital at the time and very sick,” he reveals. “And where I was staying in the hotel was about a mile away from the hospital. So while we were scouting, every night I would go walk. It was quite cold then. I would walk to the hospital, spend some time with my dad, and then come back. So I was there for about a week, and so it was very special to have those that time with him.”
Phil’s late father, John Keoghan, was an avid agricultural scientist and conservationist. He had a clear passion for his son’s work, making a cameo in Tough as Nails, which Phil hosted and co-created. He also made his on-screen debut back in 2008, appearing as a Pit Stop greeter when the show previously visited Tauranga in Season 13. John passed away on Nov. 15, 2025 at the age of 83.
“When we came back on the actual shoot, people don’t realize how quickly we shoot the show,” Keoghan recounts. “We arrived at midnight, and we left before we left at about 4:00 the next afternoon. So I was literally only on the ground in Christchurch from early in the morning until 4:00, and then we went to the airport and flew out. “
“But my dad came to the Pit Stop, which was right next to where the hospital was in in the botanical gardens,” he continues. “And he mustered all his strength to come down to be there with me. It was near a special place, a place that held special meaning for me and my family. The last time we were there together as a family was 50 years ago; we took family photos. And my dad turned up, and and all the crew that remembered him from Season 13 were remembering him, and we all took photos. And that was the last time I saw my dad. That was it.”
With a brand-new country to visit, and a heartwarming homecoming for one of the most venerated hosts in reality TV, there will be plenty to keep us emotionally invested to every clue that gets opened this fall. The Amazing Race 39 kicks off with a two-episode premiere on Wednesday, Sept. 30 and Thursday, Oct. 1 at 8:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., respectively, on CBS.
Related: Meet ‘The Amazing Race 39’ Cast—And Find Out the First Game-Changing Twist
Country Star's Dolly Parton Tribute Leaves VMAs Audience Divided: 'Miley Should've Done This'
A Dolly Parton tribute ought to be the one thing nobody fights about.
Kacey Musgraves sang “I Will Always Love You” at the VMAs on Sunday. Under a video of the performance posted to social media, the most-liked comment runs two words. “Beautiful tribute.”
Keep scrolling and fans are arguing about who should’ve been standing there.
Parton Sang the First Part HerselfThe segment opened on archival footage of Dolly Parton, dressed in black, talking to a concert crowd about the importance of listening to women. Then she sang, and Musgraves came in underneath her on the recording.
The video faded out and left her alone at the piano in a sparkling red bodysuit, Parton’s butterfly emblem floating across the screen.
Parton died Aug. 25 at 80.
Most of the Comments Say Some Version of the Same Thing“in Dolly we trust,” one reads. “she’d be so proud of kacey.”
Plenty of them went straight to the clothes. “A Dolly tribute without rhinestones would’ve been disrespectful,” one fan wrote. Another: “She pulled out the BIG HAIR for this one, god bless.”
“Not a dry eye in sight.”
View this post on Instagram Then There’s the Miley Question“No, Miley should’ve done this,” reads one of the most-liked replies underneath. Versions of it turn up in multiple different languages further down the thread.
Miley Cyrus is Parton’s goddaughter. Billy Ray Cyrus asked Parton to take the role before Miley was born, and Parton turned up three times on Hannah Montana as Aunt Dolly. They’re also seventh cousins once removed.
Cyrus posted her own tribute in August.
Other fans had other names. “Nah. I can think of about 10 better ways. Reba and Kelly Clarkson are a good start.”
The ones defending her got blunt about it. “Some of y’all are really so embarrassing,” one wrote. “This is a Grammy winning artist who was near and dear to Dolly putting her best out there.”
The country singer had already covered Parton before.
A few said the performance looked off, that the words and the music weren’t lining up. Someone else had noticed something stranger. “I am trying to figure out how she filmed this if I’m at her show right now in Nashville and VMAs are in LA.” They were right to wonder. The VMAs were running in Los Angeles on Sunday night, and Musgraves was booked at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.
The tribute, announced last week, was taped ahead of time.
8 Books from September 2026 You Completely Missed, Including a Jack Ryan Jr. Story; Richard Osman's Latest Book Came Out Mid-Month
As the kids go back to school and fall routines set in, it’s easy to overlook many of the great books that are released. Where do you find the time to read? Well, there were eight books from September 2026 that you likely overlooked, and you need to pick them up now.
Don’t worry about your sleep schedule. It’ll all balance out eventually! These novels are far too addicting to hold off any longer.
Courtesy of Putnam ‘Tom Clancy’s Pressure Depth’ by Jack StewartYou fell in love with Jack Ryan, and now it’s time to follow Jack Ryan Jr. The 15th book in Jr.’s series arrived on Sept. 1. Tom Clancy’s Pressure Depth by Jack Stewart sees Jack Ryan Jr. on Guam working on a project for Hendley Associates. It’s supposed to be an ordinary insurance matter, but we all know that the Ryans find trouble wherever they go.
Pressure Depth is another gripping story. It’s packed with action from the very beginning, and your “one more chapter” statement is going to turn into “just another” and “okay, maybe another.” As with all the other books, this one doesn’t shy away from the technical information, but it helps to create a realistic and grounding experience as you follow Jack Ryan Jr. on another suspenseful and dangerous mission.
Courtesy of Sourcebooks ‘The Hocus Pocus Handbook’ by Ann AguirreNo, this is nothing to do with Hocus Pocus, but The Hocus Pocus Handbook by Ann Aguirre is perfect for those looking for something for scary season. If you’ve ever been fascinated by the changeling story, then you’ll need to jump right in, as Thea Winter is on the other side of that story, raised by a hobgoblin called Mudge.
With a marriage of convenience and a groom with cold feet, we get a cozy fantasy with plenty of romance and humor. This is a slightly slower read to start, but once you get through the first 20% or so, you’ll be off to the races. The first part is worth it for all the world-building, though, and it could certainly continue with a sequel — or maybe a standalone sequel set in the same world.
Courtesy of Doubleday ‘The Pirate Queen’ by Ariel LawhonFor those who love some historical fiction in their fantasy, The Pirate Queen by Ariel Lawhon is one you may have overlooked. It follows Grace O’Malley, who was raised on the sea with the O’Malley clan. As she realizes her dreams, she has to accept that they’re not compatible with the life she’s expected to have, and so she needs to forge her own path.
This is a perfect story for those looking for something adventurous and rebellious. It’s something for those who need a female lead who is willing to stand for what she believes in, to find her own path in life, as so many attempt to do the same in today’s world. You’ll soon find that the Irish coastline becomes its own character, and you’ll want to visit immediately.
Courtesy of Berkley ‘Blue Jean Summer’ by Maggie C. GatesFans of small-town romances can stop right here. You definitely missed out on Blue Jean Summer by Maggie C. Gates, which follows Hayes Wilder, who returns to Honey Hollow to take over the Wilder Estate left to him by his grandfather. He’s a man who just wants to spend more time with the man he adored, but that’s not possible, and now he needs to do whatever it takes to continue the man’s legacy.
The problem is that the will states that he must marry. So, Hayes sets out to do just that. What he doesn’t expect is to actually fall in love, and suddenly, this marriage of convenience turns into something sweeping and cozy, perfect for the fall weather.
Courtesy of Pamela Dorman Books ‘We Chase Shadows’ by Richard OsmanDon’t let the fall stop you from dreaming of summer plans. We Chase Shadows by Richard Osman offers you a chance to think about travel, as it takes you on a globe-trotting murder mystery. As with the We Solve Murders story, it picks up with multiple viewpoints, giving you a chance to see the deeper mystery and the problem at hand.
While the first novel left us wanting a little with the main characters, We Chase Shadows delves further into Amy’s backstory and mentality. It’s time to figure out just how her marriage to Adam works, even when he’s not allowed too close to her both physically and emotionally. Plus, Steve’s banter is always a lot of fun, as he pretends to want something simple like cheating spouses.
Courtesy of Penguin Random House ‘If Not You’ by Ellen O’CloverAnother cozy romance to delve into is If Not You by Ellen O’Clover. This one has more of an enemies-to-lovers vibe, as it follows two rival copywriters on the road together. Mattie knows how to tell a good story, but Campbell has always come out on top. Can things change once they’re thrown together in fierce competition?
There’s a realism to the story, which is perfect for those who love a workplace rivalry. The two start off extremely mean to each other, and you find yourself turning the pages just to see how they could possibly end up together. With the fall vibes throughout, it’s perfect for reading with some hot cocoa by the fireplace.
Courtesy of Entangled Publishing ‘Harbinger’ by Geneva LeeRomantasy fans, stop what you’re doing! Harbinger by Geneva Lee is the one you overlooked this month. It’s a new story packed with all the tropes you love, and a new magic system and world to explore. On top of that, we follow a heroine who finds her life on the line when she is branded an omen of war.
Arden Icaros is from the poorest of the five noble bloodlines. With half of the families wanting her dead, she has to turn to Antares, also known as Bishop. He’s the most-feared man, ruthless and terrifying, but what stops him from killing her? The high-stakes tale is going to have you hooked from the very first page.
Courtesy of Hanover Square Press ‘The Many Private Lives of Missy Cooke’ by Jane GreenTechnically, you haven’t missed this one. It comes out on Sept. 29, 2026, but with other fabulous reads also coming out, it’s easy to overlook one. You won’t want to miss The Many Private Lives of Missy Cooke by Jane Green, especially if you’re a fan of adult fiction that brings a poignant and timely story.
Missy Cooke is the daughter of a tech titan, and as she grows up, she has her own tech aspirations. What she doesn’t expect is to end up taking over her father’s empire, and soon she’s thrust into a world she doesn’t quite understand. Mix that with trying to live up to expectations, questions of nepotism, and her childhood crush coming back into her life, Missy has to figure out the new world order.
How Moisture Control Helps Protect Your Home From Termites
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A damp crawlspace isn’t automatically a sign that termites are present. But excess moisture can make parts of a home more conducive to subterranean termites, particularly when damp wood and soil are in close contact.
Subterranean termites live underground and depend on moisture to survive. Plumbing leaks, poor drainage, condensation and standing water around a foundation can all create conditions that increase a home’s risk. In fact, NC State Extension identifies moist wood as one of the most significant conditions conducive to termite infestation.
Controlling that moisture won’t replace professional termite treatment, but it can remove some of the conditions that make a home more hospitable to termites. Here’s where drainage, vapor barriers and dehumidification can make a difference.
Protect your home before damage spreads. An Orkin inspection identifies active termite threats and the underlying moisture problems that attract them.
Moisture doesn’t guarantee a termite infestation, but subterranean termites need it and are more likely to thrive where damp conditions persist. Clemson Cooperative Extension notes that termites find moist or decayed wood more attractive than dry wood, with some of the heaviest damage commonly appearing near structural or plumbing leaks.
Orkin similarly identifies pooled water, poor grading, faulty gutters and wet building materials as conditions that can make an area more favorable to subterranean termites. Here are some other factors to consider:
Moisture Problem
Why It Matters
Plumbing leaks
Can keep structural wood damp
Poor drainage
Allows water to collect near the foundation
Wet crawlspace soil
Raises moisture beneath the house
Clogged gutters
Can deposit water beside the foundation
Condensation
Can increase crawlspace wood moisture
Wood-to-soil contact
Gives subterranean termites moisture, food and access
Why Are Damp Crawlspaces a Termite Risk?Crawlspaces can combine several conditions that termites favor: soil, wood framing, darkness and persistent humidity.
A plumbing leak or condensation from water lines can provide moisture, while wooden joists and other structural components provide cellulose. The EPA recommends keeping soil around foundations dry through proper grading and drainage, fixing leaks promptly and keeping vents unobstructed as part of termite prevention.
Wood-to-soil contact deserves particular attention. Subterranean termites can move directly from underground colonies into accessible wood, sometimes with little visible evidence from inside the house.
Do Crawlspace Vapor Barriers Prevent Termites?No. A vapor barrier can help control crawlspace moisture, but it is not a termite barrier or termite treatment. That’s an important distinction.
A ground vapor barrier reduces moisture moving from damp soil into the crawlspace. NC State Extension recommends maintaining a properly installed crawlspace vapor barrier as part of home moisture management.
Orkin is even more explicit: vapor barriers can reduce moisture in wood and help prevent problems such as wood-decay fungi, but “these barriers will not prevent termites.” A vapor barrier should therefore be viewed as one component of moisture control, not a substitute for termite monitoring or treatment.
Can a Dehumidifier Help Reduce Termite-Friendly Conditions?A dehumidifier can help when high crawlspace humidity is contributing to damp structural materials. NC State Extension recommends considering a dehumidifier when indoor humidity exceeds 60%, while noting that an enclosed or encapsulated crawlspace may require active dehumidification as part of a broader moisture-control approach.
The goal is not to “dehumidify termites away.” It’s to keep the crawlspace and wood drier so conditions are less favorable to termites, fungi and other moisture-related problems.
Orkin’s DryZone moisture-management service similarly focuses on identifying moisture sources and using measures such as sealing, ventilation and moisture control based on conditions found in the home.
An Orkin termite inspection can help identify moisture, wood-to-ground contact and other conditions around a crawlspace that may increase termite risk.
Termites aren’t the only threat to damp structural wood. NC State Extension explains that wood-decaying fungi require elevated moisture and recommends correcting leaks, drainage problems and other moisture sources to stop conditions that support decay.
That means fixing a wet crawlspace can address two separate concerns: reducing termite-conducive conditions and protecting structural wood from fungal decay. It also makes inspections easier. A dry, accessible crawlspace gives homeowners and pest professionals a better opportunity to spot mud tubes, damaged wood or other evidence of termite activity.
Related: Do Carpenter Ants Destroy Wood Like Termites? What Homeowners Should Know
Moisture control works best as part of a broader prevention plan. The EPA recommends repairing leaks, improving drainage, keeping wood and debris away from the house and inspecting periodically for termite activity. NC State Extension also recommends correcting standing water, limiting wood-to-ground contact and maintaining access around foundations so termite activity can be detected.
If termites are already present, though, drying the crawlspace alone won’t eliminate the colony. Professional treatment may involve liquid termiticides, bait systems or other methods based on the home and infestation.
For homeowners with persistent crawlspace moisture, that distinction is worth remembering: fixing the moisture makes the structure less hospitable, while termite control addresses the termites themselves.
FAQ Are Termites Dangerous to Your Home?According to Orkin, termites cause billions in property damage annually by eating structural wood, beams and support joists. Because they feed secretly inside walls and crawlspaces, infestations can weaken load-bearing structures before homeowners notice them, potentially triggering floor sags or ceiling collapses. Making matters worse, standard homeowners insurance policies rarely cover termite damage, leaving owners to pay for costly repairs.
Why Does Crawlspace Moisture Attract Subterranean Termites?Orkin highlights that subterranean termites depend on high humidity and moisture to survive, as their bodies quickly dehydrate in dry environments. Damp soil and high crawlspace humidity create prime conditions for colonies to flourish. Termites build pencil-thin mud tubes from damp soil and wood fibers, allowing them to travel safely between underground nests and structural wood without losing critical moisture.
What Are the Top Warning Signs of a Termite Infestation?According to Orkin, early signs of termites often include discarded wings near windows, doors or light fixtures following a swarm. Homeowners should also watch for mud tubes along foundation walls or crawlspace joists, wood that sounds hollow when tapped, and bubbling or discolored drywall. Spongy flooring, sticking doors, and crumbling wood indicate that active pests may be causing hidden structural damage.
If you’re concerned about moisture or possible termite activity, Orkin can inspect the property and recommend termite-control and moisture-management options based on the conditions found around your home.
This article was drafted with the assistance of AI and thoroughly reviewed, edited, and fact-checked by Parade editors. See our complete AI Policy.
Taylor Swift Dedicates Video of the Year Award to the 'Ultimate Showgirl'
Taylor Swift had several major wins at last night’s VMAs for multiple songs off her 2025 studio album The Life of a Showgirl, and she dedicated one award in particular to the late, great Dolly Parton.
Among those, Swift won the Video of the Year award for her song “The Fate of Ophelia” off the Life of a Showgirl album last night, becoming the musician with the most VMA wins in history at 33 total awards (topping Beyoncé’s previously held record of 30).
In addition to her “Fate of Ophelia” win, Swift also took home the first-ever Artist Director Honors award, as well as the award for Best Direction for “Opalite,” another Life of a Showgirl hit.
During her acceptance speech for Video of the Year, Swift specifically shouted out Parton, who passed away last month.
“I want to thank and dedicate this award to one person without whom this wouldn’t be happening,” Swift said. “And that person is the ultimate showgirl, Dolly Parton. Every single song that she wrote, her storytelling was so vivid and so rich. It was like, listening to her songs, it’s like watching the best music video you have ever seen in your life, every single time you hear what she has written.”
She continued, “Man, she handled this thing with such grace and joy and love and gratitude for the fact that she got to do this. And everything that happened in her life or her career, she channeled back into love and gratitude and appreciation for her fans. I am lucky I got to be one of them, and I will always be one of them. I love you all so very much, and I think we were all very lucky to share this planet with Dolly Parton for a time.”
View this post on InstagramAt this year’s VMAs, Swift also debuted the music video for her brand-new song “Patient Zero.”
Serve Bistro-Worthy Salads and Pasta With Walmart's $20 4-Piece Glazed Stoneware Bowl Set
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While basic plates and bowls can definitely do the job, there’s something about gorgeous, high-quality dinnerware that makes meals taste even more delicious. If you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen in a way that’s both practical and beautiful, Walmart’s bestselling Vesteel Large Stoneware Bowls 4-Piece Set is definitely worth checking out.
Regularly priced at $43, this set of four generously-sized stoneware bowls is now as low as $25 during a limited-time Walmart flash sale — a steal for dinnerware that’s as versatile as it is stylish. With their sturdy stoneware design, glazed finish, and wide, shallow depth, they look like the type of bowls you might find in a gourmet bistro or a trendy modern restaurant.
Vesteel Large Stoneware Bowls 4-Piece Set, From $20 (was $43) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThese aren’t your average bowls. With colors like classic seashell white, bold matte black, calming khaki, and ocean-inspired blue, you’re sure to find a set that fits your personal style. Each bowl holds up to 22 ounces, making them ideal for everything from hearty soups and leafy salads to creamy pastas and your morning cereal. With a diameter just over eight inches and a shallow, wide design, they’re perfect for swirling noodles, tossing greens, or piling on extra toppings without worrying about spills.
These bowls aren’t just functional; they dress up any meal, making everyday dinners or cozy weeknight takeout feel a little more special. Priced as low as $20 for a limited time, this set also makes a fantastic gift for weddings, housewarmings, or anyone looking to refresh their kitchen.
Made from durable natural clay and fired at a sizzling 2,340 degrees Fahrenheit, these bowls are built to last. The hard, scratch-resistant glaze allows you to dig in with forks or spoons without fear, and the ergonomic rim offers a comfortable grip, so no more awkward fumbling when serving or passing dishes at the table. Plus, the non-slip bottom keeps everything steady, even during the busiest family dinners.
Cleanup and reheating are a breeze. Each bowl is microwave-, dishwasher-, oven-, and freezer-safe, so you can go from prepping to serving to storing leftovers without ever switching containers. Stack them up in your cupboard, and their space-saving shape will keep your kitchen organized and clutter-free.
Shoppers raved about this “beautiful” set, awarding it a near-perfect 4.9-star rating. One happy customer called them “perfect for soup, salad, cereal, and pasta,” while others praised the elegant look and sturdy feel. One reviewer even said the “size is perfect.”
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1969 Rock Song, Co-Written by Mick Jagger's Girlfriend, Became an Underrated Classic
In the 1960s, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards helped launch Marianne Faithfull’s career before later collaborating with her on a song with a dark history that would become one of their most underappreciated tracks.
Before “Sister Morphine” became known as a Rolling Stones track on their Sticky Fingers album, it was first recorded and released by Faithfull in 1969. At that time, Jagger and Faithfull had been in a relationship for almost four years when they began working on “Sister Morphine.”
Faithfull would call the song the “best song I ever wrote,” but it had a dark story behind its lyrics, the time it was created, and future legal battles. In an interview with Mojo, she recalls having been in London when Jagger began strumming the tune of the song. After getting fed up with hearing it again and again, Faithfull told Jagger she would write lyrics for it.
She once commented that “Sister Morphone” was her “self-portrait in a dark mirror,” her miniature “gothic masterpiece,” and her version of a celebration of death. This was largely due to the story told in its lyrics, with the singer having taken inspiration from her former husband, Richard’s partner, and the people around her.
“So I wrote this story about a man who’d had an accident. He’s dying, and in terrible pain and all he wants is for the nurse to bring him another shot,” she explained.
“It’s definitely a kind of junkie song except that neither Mick nor I knew much about junkies back then, although I knew more, because I already knew [beat poet] Gregory Corso and [Faithfull’s first husband, art dealer] John Dunbar – people who did use narcotics. And I think, partly, if I had to put a real person in it, Sister Morphine might have been Anita [Pallenberg]. Because she had just played Nurse Bullock in [1968 film] Candy.”
At the time, Jagger, Faithfull, and members of the Rolling Stones were heavily into drug use and experimentation. “Sister Morphine” ended up being pulled by Decca Records due to its drug references despite having already sold hundreds of copies. Faithfull explained there was “nothing illegal going on in the song,” but having gotten backlash regardless.
To Faithfull’s surprise, her credit for “Sister Morphine” was omitted during its single release in the U.S. Her name was also omitted as a credited writer when the Rolling Stones released the track two years later.
It was a “tremendous shock” to Faithfull, and she fought back legally for at least 20 years to regain credit for the song. In 1971, she was deep into her addiction and in a dark place, and claimed the decision to omit her name was a “team” decision by Jagger and Richards.
Faithfull re-recorded “Sister Morphine” in 1979 and got credit on every re-release done by Rolling Stone. She commented that the song has taken on a deeper meaning and that “when I sing it, all my life experience comes rushing up to meet me.”
