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Mushroom motifs are one of the coziest decor trends of 2026, adding a cottage-inspired feel to everything from planters and table lamps to everyday kitchen essentials. If you've been looking for an easy way to try the trend, this affordable Martha Stewart set at Amazon is worth considering. 

The online retailer is currently offering Martha Stewart’s Woodland Harvest Jacquard Mushroom Kitchen Towel Set for just $12. That breaks down to just $6 per towel! Made from 100% cotton, they feature a woven mushroom pattern that blends beautifully with most kinds of decor. Shoppers have been impressed with the set, with one reviewer calling the towels "very cute and good quality."

Courtesy of Amazon

Measuring 16 by 28 inches, each 100% cotton towel features a woven jacquard mushroom motif with a soft, textured finish. The two-pack is machine washable and includes convenient hanging loops, so you can keep the towels close by or let them air-dry after use. 

Reviewers were impressed by both the set’s charming mushroom design and everyday durability. "These towels are just too cute. The color is nice, and they seem high quality," one shopper wrote. Another shared that they "love the mushroom print."

According to reviewers, the towels are also soft, thick, and highly absorbent, making them a reliable choice for drying dishes and cleaning up spills. "These towels are top quality. Soft and thick," one reviewer wrote. Another described them as "very high quality" and "soft, absorbent, and durable."

Even after regular use, shoppers said the towels continue to look and perform well. One reviewer noted that they "launder well and do not shrink," adding that the quality was so impressive they're "going to buy another set."

Part of Martha Stewart's Woodland Harvest collection, the towels are also available in a sunflower print for shoppers who prefer a different nature-inspired look. They also make a thoughtful hostess or housewarming gift.

• Martha Stewart Kitchen Towel 2-Pack Set, $11 (was $15) at Amazon
• Martha Stewart Succulents Oven Mitt Set, $12 (was $20) at Amazon
• Martha Stewart Crestview Hall Console Table, From $167 (was $231) at Amazon 

Related: Martha Stewart's $20 Lemon-Themed Kitchen Essentials Set Makes Any Space Look ‘Beautiful and Bright’

For anyone looking to bring cozy, whimsical style in their kitchen while keeping things budget-friendly, the Martha Stewart Woodland Harvest Jacquard Mushroom Kitchen Towel 2-Pack Set is an easy addition for just $12. Be sure to grab yours while it’s still in stock and available at this price!

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Most 18-year-olds are still in the process of figuring out what to do with their lives, but some manage to accomplish some pretty amazing things...like writing hit songs. Something about the '60s produced a surprising number of teenage musical prodigies: The Yardbirds' "For Your Love" was written by Graham Gouldman when he was just 18; Van Morrison wrote Them's classic "Gloria" when he was the same age. And years before Jimmy Webb became known as one of the greatest songwriters of all time, when he, too, was only 18, he wrote the record-breaking hit, "Up, Up and Away."

Recorded by 5th Dimension with members of the Wrecking Crew in 1967, "Up, Up and Away" sailed to #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 that same year; in 1968, it set a standalone record for the most Grammys won by a single song by nabbing six awards. In 1999, longtime music rights management behemoth BMI ranked "Up, Up and Away" at #43 on a list of the "Top 100 Songs of the Century."

But as Webb told the Wall Street Journal in 2021, he was just a broke college student when he wrote the future hit.

"I was going through a frustrating period in 1965," Webb recalled. "Living in San Bernardino, Calif., I was failing badly in my junior-college music program. Most of my spare time was spent in Hollywood trying to break into the music business. My heart wasn’t in my studies."

"To make matters worse, I was almost 18 with no viable means of support," he continued. "My family had moved back to Oklahoma, and I was rooming with identical twins. All of us ate the same pizza and went to the all-you-can-eat bar at King Buffet twice a week."

While freelancing as a songwriter in Hollywood, Webb became friends with radio DJWilliam F. Williams from KMEN-AM in San Bernardino.

"One day Willie came by campus to hear me play some of my songs," Webb explained. "Then he drove us out to this hot dog stand where KMEN was broadcasting a promo for the place. If you knew what time it was, you got a free hot dog. At the stand, KMEN had a hot-air balloon in an adjacent lot. As part of the promo, it went up about 100 feet with the station’s letters on the side. The balloon was tethered to the ground."

As Webb and Williams walked towards the balloon, Williams asked what turned out to be a very inspirational question: “Would you like to ride in my beautiful balloon?”

"I was an aviation nut. My greatest joy growing up was building model planes with my father," Webb said. "We jumped in the basket, they fired up the balloon and we slowly began to rise. The ascent was an epiphany. It was a beautiful day and the sun splashed across the balloon’s surface. Looking up inside, the bright colors seemed like a cathedral’s stained-glass window."

Williams and Webb were so impressed, they joked around about making a "teen beach" movie, but "in the desert about ballooning." Webb agreed to write the music for the theoretical film.

Back on campus, Webb got right to work.

"I wrote a song for the balloon movie in about 40 minutes," Webb said. "I used a line from Superman for the title and chorus line. On the radio, when I was a kid, Superman would say 'Up! Up! And Away!' just before he flew off."

Williams never got around to writing a film treatment for the teen balloon movie, but that wasn't the end of the story for "Up, Up and Away."

"By 1966, I was working as a songwriter for singer Johnny Rivers," Webb said. "He had just signed a new group, the 5th Dimension, to his Soul City record label. I wrote five of the 11 songs they wound up recording on their first album. One was 'Up, Up and Away.'"

The rest, as they say, is music history.

Related: How This Legendary Singer-Songwriter's '60s Classic Became a #1 Dance Hit — and a 'Seinfeld' Plot Line

One of the biggest names in classic rock history, musician Sammy Hagar, finally stepped back on stage in the United Kingdom after 31 years. On July 6, the former Van Halen lead vocalist performed in Wolverhampton, England, making it his first U.K. show since touring with his former band in 1995.

The show was a stop on his Best of All Worlds tour, which began in early June. He first completed a bunch of shows in North America, and Hagar's now finishing up his U.K. tour with a few nights in London, England.

Hagar, who is known as the "Red Rocker," participated in Black Sabbath’s Back to the Beginning show in July 2025 in Birmingham, England, but the new show was his first official concert in the U.K. since the 1995 Van Halen show for the Balance Tour.

The rock legend started off the Wolverhampton concert with the track “There’s Only One Way to Rock," while other hits that were a part of the setlist included “Best of Both Worlds,” “I Can't Drive 55,” and “Why Can’t This Be Love.”

Related: ’90s Rock Band Announces First New Album in 28 Years

Hagar shared a post on Instagram remembering his performance with Black Sabbath about a year ago as he got ready for the 2026 Wolverhampton show. He wrote, "It’s just coincidence but what a trip to be playing Birmingham (Wolverhampton) tonight 7- 6–26. Is everybody ready to rock? we certainly are!"

In the comments, there were plenty of fans of Hagar's who were traveling from other parts of United Kingdom and Europe just to see him perform at this show. One such fan wrote, "I'm flying over from Ireland for the gig in Wolverhampton tonight. Can hardly wait."

Another claimed they were at Hagar's show in England back in 1995, replying, "See you tonight @sammyhagar last time was Wembley 95!" They finally got the chance to see him perform in the area again after so many years.

Related: '80s New Wave Frontman Says He ‘Can’t Imagine’ Making Another Album Following Long-Awaited Return

Rock history is filled with stories of highly misunderstood songs, and it seems like a fair amount of them were by the Beatles. This makes sense, of course. The Fab Four's lyrics weren't always that straightforward; plus, everybody assumed everything was a drug reference during the '60s and '70s. Sometimes that wasn't true: John Lennon insisted "Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds" was about a picture drawn by his son, not LSD. However, Lennon also revealed that another Beatles classic really was inspired by psychedelic experiences...in addition to one of the most surreal novels of all time.

Released on the 1967 Magical Mystery Tour album, "I Am the Walrus" has been puzzling listeners for decades:

Yellow matter custard
Dripping from a dead dog's eye
Crabalocker fishwife, pornographic priestess
Boy, you've been a naughty girl, you let your knickers down

I am the egg man (oh)
They are the egg men (oh)
I am the walrus, goo-goo, g'joob

Who is the walrus? For that matter, who is the egg man? As it turns out, the song was confusing because Lennon wanted it to be; he wrote the seemingly nonsensical words out of frustration when he found out that people (even students) were analyzing Beatles' lyrics. However, as Lennon told David Sheff of Playboy in 1980 (later quoted in Sheff's book, All We Are Saying: The Last Major Interview With John Lennon and Yoko Ono), his imagination got a little hallucinogenic boost.

"The first line was written on one acid trip one weekend," Lennon recalled. "The second line was written on the next acid trip the next weekend, and it was filled in after I met Yoko...I'd seen Allen Ginsberg and some other people who liked [Bob] Dylan and Jesus going on about Hare Krishna. It was Ginsberg, in particular, I was referring to. The words 'Element'ry penguin' meant that it's naïve to just go around chanting Hare Krishna or putting all your faith in one idol. In those days I was writing obscurely, à la Dylan."

As Lennon went on to explain, Lewis Carroll's 1871 poem, "The Walrus and the Carpenter" (which appeared in his dark children's fantasy novelThrough the Looking Glass) also influenced the lyrics for "I Am the Walrus," though he later realized he got the meaning of the poem wrong.

"It never dawned on me that Lewis Carroll was commenting on the capitalist system," Lennon said. "I never went into that bit about what he really meant, like people are doing with the Beatles' work. Later, I went back and looked at it and realized that the walrus was the bad guy in the story and the carpenter was the good guy. I thought, Oh, s—t, I picked the wrong guy. I should have said, 'I am the carpenter.' But that wouldn't have been the same, would it? [Sings, laughing] 'I am the carpenter...'"

You might think that Lennon's explanations would have put all the speculation about "I Am the Walrus" to rest, but that's not at all what happened...especially because Lennon stoked the fire himself with the lyrics to another Beatles song, "Glass Onion" (on the 1968 double album The Beatles, better known as the White Album):

I told you about the walrus and me, man
You know that we're as close as can be, man
Well here's another clue for you all
The walrus was Paul

"I threw the line in — 'the Walrus was Paul' — just to confuse everybody a bit more," Lennon was quoted as saying in The Beatles Anthology.

"It could have been 'the fox terrier is Paul,'" he continued. "I mean, it's just a bit of poetry. I was having a laugh because there'd been so much gobbledygook about Pepper — play it backwards and you stand on your head and all that."

All these years later, the fact that fans remain unconvinced there's not a deeper meaning behind both "I Am the Walrus" and "Glass Onion" proves they're poetry indeed.

Related: 1969 Timeless Love Anthem Recorded 57 Years Ago Today Was Banned Before Becoming a Classic

You’ll solve today’s NYT Mini Crossword puzzle in record time if you follow the clues. One answer pertains to your foot, while another may remind you of childhood. As for the rest, that’s up to you. Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can't forget about the NYT's The Mini Crossword, too!

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

So, if you're working on today's Mini Crossword on Wednesday, July 8, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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

1 Across: Hairstyle for Jimi Hendrix — HINT: Ends with the letter "O"

5 Across: Snow-clearing vehicle —HINT: Starts with the letter "P"

6 Across: Headwater for a monarch — HINT: Ends with the letter "N"

7 Across: Car part that can be "popped" — HINT: Ends with the letter "D"

8 Across: Iconic film character with a fedora hat, familiarity — HINT: Starts with the letter "F"

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

1 Down: Chef's garment — HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

2 Down: Biblical phenomenon caused by 40 days of rain — HINT: Starts with the letter "F"

3 Down: Obstreperous — HINT: Ends with the letter "Y"

4 Down: "Mind your ____beeswaz!" — HINT: Starts with the letter "O"

6 Down: Invisible life force, in Chinese philosophy — HINT: Ends with the letter "I"

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

1 Across: Hairstyle for Jimi Hendrix — AFRO

5 Across: Snow-clearing vehicle —PLOW

6 Across: Headwater for a monarch — CROWN

7 Across: Car part that can be "popped" — HOOD

8 Across: Iconic film character with a fedora hat, familiarity — INDY

1 Down: Chef's garment — APRON

2 Down: Biblical phenomenon caused by 40 days of rain — FLOOD

3 Down: Obstreperous — ROWDY

4 Down: "Mind your ____beeswaz!" — OWN

6 Down: Invisible life force, in Chinese philosophy — CHI

Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Tuesday, July 7, 2026

One billion streams. A No. 1 in 17 countries. A record that stood for decades on the US charts.

And the man who made it possible died before he got to see any of it reach a billion.

The story of how "Tainted Love" came to exist is a story of near-misses, cheap synthesizers and one last chance. Marc Almond first heard the song while he was working in a club. He immediately ran to the DJ to ask what it was. The original was a 1964 Northern Soul track by Gloria Jones, written by Ed Cobb, that had never charted, kept alive only because DJs in northern England clubs kept playing it for over a decade.

Almond brought it to his musical partner Dave Ball, the man who had been "making bleepy noises on a synthesiser" at Leeds Polytechnic when the two first met. But "Tainted Love" wasn't their first choice. They nearly went with "The Night" by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons instead. They landed on "Tainted Love" almost by accident, because Almond loved the title and the opening line.

"I loved the title and the opening line: 'Sometimes I feel I've got to run away,'" Almond later said. "It summed up how I felt. I was 21, already feeling world-weary after some love affairs. I adored the sneering, curled-lip aspect of the song."

They made it in a cheap Leeds housing association apartment. Ball described the recording as "a collision of really cheap and really expensive technology." Their label told them that would be their last release if it didn't sell.

Almond recorded it in two vocal takes. That was all it needed.

Related: 1979 Post-Punk Classic, Recorded Weeks Before Their Singer Died, Is Finally Getting a Release

"Tainted Love" went to No. 1 in 17 countries. It spent 43 weeks on the US Billboard Hot 100, at the time the longest consecutive stay in the chart's history. It became a song that let people who felt like outsiders feel included and less alone. When their label warned them not to wear the studded wristbands, eyeliner and bangles on Top of the Pops because it would put people off, they wore them anyway. That defiant attitude became as much a part of the song as the lyrics.

In April 2026, it finally hit one billion streams on Spotify.

Unfortunately, Dave Ball didn't live to see it happen.

Dave Ball died on October 22, 2025. He was only 66 years old.

He had just finished Danceteria, Soft Cell's sixth and final studio album. He finally heard it back for the first time just two days before he died.

"He only listened to it back for the first time two days prior to his death, and he was so excited about it and ready for promotion," Almond told People Magazine in May 2026. "Which is why his death hit us hard."

Danceteria comes out on September 25, 2026. It'll be the last album Soft Cell releases ever. Almond has been clear about that. Recording without Ball, he has said, just wouldn't be Soft Cell.

"I wouldn't be where I am if it weren't for his music," Almond said. "He would be overjoyed to know it was being kept alive."

Right now, Marc Almond is on stage in America as part of The Generations Tour with The Human League and Alison Moyet, performing "Tainted Love" without Ball for the first time in the United States. The tour runs through early July 2026. Every show is a farewell.

The 21-year-old who recorded two vocal takes in a Leeds flat is 1968 now, performing the same song on a different continent without the man who created it with him.

The song almost never existed. The label nearly dropped them before they even recorded it. They nearly chose a different song completely. They made it in a cheap flat on borrowed technology with one last shot to prove themselves. Forty-five years later, it has a billion streams, a sold-out farewell tour, and a co-creator who died just weeks before the milestone he spent nearly 50 years building toward.

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

It's hard to find shoes that you can count on, which is why we often turn to footwear that's comfortable, durable, and stylish. Clarks is one of our go-tos, and luckily, JCPenney is selling the brand in droves. Some of our favorite styles include these super cute canvas sneakers, extremely comfy flip flops, and cushioned slide sandals. Now, we're adding the Clarks Solevana Style Sneakers to our cart, while they're 40% off.

The sneakers originally cost $100, but have been reduced to just $60 during a limited-time sale. The footwear is being sold in four colors: off-white, black, navy, and light blue. They're available in medium and wide widths, with sizes spanning from 5 to 12. Just note that the wide sizing is selling out quickly, so if that's your preference we recommend shopping for them sooner rather than later. 

Courtesy of JCPenney

The sneaker features a round toe, classic lace-up closure, and a 1.5-inch flat heel. The upper and outer base is made of nubuck leather, while the outsole consists of a flexible eva foam with traction for uneven terrains. The insole is cushioned with a soft footbed that makes the shoe ideal for all day wear. To clean the shoe, all you need to do is spot clean with a soft damp cloth. 

Courtesy of JCPenney

What we love about these sneakers is that they're extremely versatile, so you can easily wear them for running errands, while hanging out with friends, and while exercising. One reviewer described the shoe as "so comfortable," "very lightweight," and "breathable," making them perfect for hot summer months. Plus, you can wear them with shorts, jeans, athleisure wear, and more.

Related: JCPenney’s ‘Super Soft’ Reversible Botanical Comforter Set Is the ‘Perfect Weight’ for Hot Sleepers and Nearly 50% Off

"The cushion on these shoes helps inside, and is perfect for someone like me who has terrible foot pain and has to stand at my part-time job," the shopper continued. Another customer, who opted for the wide option, said that they "feel great." Considering the affordable price, you could even invest in a few colors that you can rotate through throughout the year. 

• Clarks Cloudsteppers Breeze Opal Flip Flops, $28 (was $60) at JCPenney
• East 5th Reno Wedge Sandals, $34 (was $65) at JCPenney
• Clarks Calenne Gracie Wedge Sandals, $50 (was $100) at JCPenney

It's not hard to find reliable shoes, when you know where to look. Thanks to JCPenney, these comfy Clarks sneakers will be the ideal pair to add to your shoe collection. Shop them now for just $60! 

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.

Spencer Pratt isn’t letting his recent political loss get him down. Even though he isn’t going to be the mayor of L.A. (at least not right now), the former reality TV star was just spotted spending time with the MAGA elite. 

On July 7, The Hills alum posted a photo on Instagram of himself with Donald Trump at the White House. The Oval Office image also features a young boy whom fans assume is one of Pratt’s sons (he shares eight-year-old Gunner and three-year-old Ryker with his wife, fellow former The Hills star and pop singer Heidi Montag), and two other unidentified adults. 

So, what was Pratt doing at the White House? While he hasn't revealed details about his trip to Washington, D.C., Pratt did caption the photo, “I will never stop fighting for my community.” Fans speculated that Spencer’s candid caption and photo op with the Commander-in-Chief have something to do with his new political initiative, the WAR Foundation. 

The former mayoral candidate also recently posted on his Instagram Stories, “The WAR Foundation is being created to fight where others won’t. We will use the same innovative arsenal we used to capture the world’s attention in our campaign: hard-hitting media, investigative research, educational campaigns, and strategic partnerships in government and media to push back on the communist rot, shine a light on government failure, and empower citizens with the truth.”

What is the WAR Foundation? According to the movement’s website, Pratt and his fellow Foundation members will “Win the war against political corruption with innovative new media. Advocate for transparency, accountability, and integrity in government and culture. Restore common sense and roll back the long march of socialism through our vital institutions.” 

Based on his picture with the president, Pratt is already hard at work on those “strategic partnerships in government.” But the photo might not even be the most telling part of the post. The reaction from the ex-reality TV star’s fans is overwhelming. 

One commenter wrote, “Every day you inspired us. Thank you so much!” and others said, “You were born for this, Spencer! So grateful for you! As a native Californian, I wish there were more men like you” and “Winners never quit, and quitters never win. Yeah mate? Keep the good fight going, Spencer! We are so proud of you and with you!”

Other commenters praised Pratt’s choice of travel companions, writing, “Is that your son with you, I love seeing kids around the White House,” and, “Is that your son? I’m applauding you for providing the opportunity for him to see the Oval Office!”

Viewers have asked for it, Love Island USA production has heard it, and now fans have even more say than ever before as the fifth vote of the season takes place on July 7, 2026.

Earlier today, viewers were teased that they needed to “Read. The. Vote. Subtitle. Carefully,” and that “This little twist is something you’ve asked for… You are very welcome.” As Episode 31 of Love Island USA came to an end, narrator Iain Stirling explained how the latest vote would work.

This time, fans are voting for which FOUR couples they want to make it to the finale. Viewers will have the opportunity to vote between

The advertisement made it clear that viewers HAVE to select four couples for their vote to count. If viewers do not select four couples, their votes will not be registered.

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Fans took to social media to encourage one another on how to proceed with their vote. One fan explained "You guys have to be strategic with your votes," continuing to share their strategy "You have to vote for a weak couple!" so that your favorite couple can make it to the end and get the win.

A second fan shared, "They literally MADE THIS VOTE JUST FOR THE CORE FOUR! We can’t mess this up. AMIGAS CHEETAHS TO THE FINALSSSS"

A third wished the vote was for something else, adding, "Lol They dead ass wrong for not letting us Vote after family day, that be the real deciding factor…"

Sterling shared that viewers will find out the results on Friday night’s show, with the final vote of the season anticipated to open up shortly after.

Love Island USA continues Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 9 p.m. ET streaming exclusively on Peacock.

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

As warmer weather encourages more people to spend time outdoors, shoppers are increasingly focused on products that blend comfort, convenience and functionality. Whether it is tending to backyard gardens, handling weekend yard work, walking the dog or completing everyday errands, shoppers are looking for simple solutions that make daily routines easier without sacrificing comfort.

This shift reflects a larger trend in lifestyle purchasing. Products that can transition seamlessly from outdoor chores to casual everyday use continue to gain popularity, especially among shoppers who value practicality. Ease of use has become one of the most important factors influencing purchasing decisions, particularly for people with busy schedules who want dependable products that fit effortlessly into their daily lives.

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Kohls

One product attracting attention in this growing category is the Gogo Printed Garden Clog, available for $24.49. Designed for convenience and everyday outdoor use, these clogs offer a lightweight yet durable construction that helps support a variety of activities. From gardening and watering plants to quick trips outside or casual walks around the neighborhood, the versatile design makes them a practical addition to any wardrobe.

Functionality remains one of the strongest selling points. The clogs feature waterproof protection, helping keep feet dry when working in damp conditions or navigating wet grass and muddy garden beds. In addition, slip-resistant stability provides extra confidence on a variety of outdoor surfaces, an increasingly important feature for shoppers who prioritize safety alongside comfort.

Comfort also plays a major role in the appeal of the Gogo Printed Garden Clog. The breathable design improves airflow, while the cushioned construction provides support throughout the day. As consumers continue seeking footwear that can handle extended wear without discomfort, features like these have become increasingly valuable. Available in women's sizes 7 through 10, the clogs are designed to accommodate a wide range of shoppers seeking an easy, everyday footwear option.

Related: Aldi's Super-Handy and Vibrant Summer Essential Is the Best $10 You'll Spend All Week

Customer feedback highlights many of the same benefits shoppers are seeking today. One satisfied reviewer, Peg F, shared, "Comfortable and waterproof! Easy to slip on and off." That combination of comfort, convenience and weather-ready performance continues to resonate with consumers who want products that simplify everyday life.

Made from PVC and polyester materials, the clogs are also easy to maintain with simple spot cleaning. That low-maintenance design aligns perfectly with today's consumer preferences, where convenience often drives purchasing decisions as much as appearance or price.

As outdoor living, gardening and home improvement activities remain popular, products that offer durability, comfort and practical performance are expected to remain in high demand. The Gogo Printed Garden Clog checks many of the boxes shoppers are looking for, providing an affordable option that delivers everyday functionality while helping make outdoor tasks more comfortable and convenient.

Related: Shoppers Can't Get Enough of Hobby Lobby's 'Comfy,' 'Huggable' and Beautiful Home Essential

After meeting each other in the biggest twist of the season, Casa Amor, Tierra "Titi" Davis and KC Chandler have made their relationship official by closing things off and becoming boyfriend and girlfriend on the Peacock reality series Love Island USA.

Following stressful days of confrontation, as the fallout of KC’s movements throughout the season put strain on his relationships, both friendships and romantic, after movie night revealed some secrets, he spent the time needed in building his connection to Tierra and making it stronger.

In Episode 31, which began streaming on July 7, the episode ends with KC setting up a scavenger hunt for Tierra, leading to the docks where he greeted her with roses.

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In a confessional, KC explained, “[Tierra] definitely means a lot.”

He continued, “I don't think words can express, but I feel like I'm at the point where I wanna like turn a little leaf. I want TiTi to be in it. I want her to be in this chapter, you know, and see where our story goes. I'm excited to make new memories with her.”

When Titi made it to him, he explained that although they haven’t had the most time together, she made him feel a way that he hasn’t really felt for anyone else.

He then shared, “Although we haven't had the most time, you have made me feel a way that I haven't really felt for anyone else.”

I feel like in my past I haven't really committed, I've always said things like ‘I will in the future. But that's not me anymore, and I know what I want, and that's you.”

He then asked, “Will you be my girlfriend?” to which she excitedly agreed and the two became official.

Fans took to social media to share their excitement. One user wrote, "Now THAT was cute KC and TiTi 👏🏾💗" with a second adding, annoyingly, "ugh Titi and KC are actually cute."

Now, Tierra and KC’s relationship is in the hands of the fans as viewers vote for which couple they want to see in the final four. Viewers will find out the results on Friday night’s show.

Love Island USA continues Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 9 p.m. ET streaming exclusively on Peacock.

Multiplatinum alternative rock icons 311 are heading east this fall.

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Following the band’s summer amphitheater tour across North America, 311 is then heading east to headline the Budweiser Summer Series at Elmwood Park in downtown Roanoke, Virginia. Slated forFriday, Sept. 25, the concert will also feature special guest Beach Weather.

“Pre-sale starts Thursday at 10 a.m. ET using the code FREAKOUT. General on-sale begins Friday at 10 a.m. ET,” the band wrote on Instagram.

The Budweiser Summer Series is an open-air live music series hosted by Downtown Roanoke Inc., with evening performances, gates opening at 6 p.m., and shows starting around 7.

This August, Russell Dickerson and Blake Proehl will also take the stage, with 311 closing out the event and the summer season.

Formed in 1988, the Omaha-rooted band was started by vocalist and guitarist Nick Hexum, lead guitarist Jim Watson, bassist Aaron “P-Nut” Wills, and drummer Chad Sexton. TimMahoney later replaced Watson, and turntablist Doug “SA” Martinez joined in 1992.

311 hit their stride in 1995 with their self-titled album, known as The Blue Album, which became a commercial smash, propelled by the No. 1 alternative hit “Down” and “All Mixed Up.” In 2004, the band released a cover of The Cure’s “Love Song,” which became their second No. 1 alternative hit.

According to Billboard, 311 has achieved 10 Top 10 albums on the Billboard 200, including Uplifter, which peaked at No. 3 in 2009.  

Now, more than three decades later, 311 has sold more than 10 million records in the U.S. and built a fanbase that celebrates the band for its blend of rock, reggae, funk, and hip-hop.

Always kinetic onstage, they are currently on their So Glad You Made It Tour, with special guest Dirty Heads. Tour tickets and dates can be found here.

Related: ’70s Heavy Metal Legends Debut at No. 1 With New Release

Katie Couric says there are several hours of her life she'll never get back—and that's one of the hardest parts of a recent health scare that landed her in the hospital.

In a Monday, July 6, post on her Substack, the veteran journalist opened up about a frightening episode of temporary memory loss she experienced while attending the Aspen Ideas Festival, revealing she was later diagnosed with transient global amnesia (TGA), a rare condition that temporarily prevents the brain from forming new memories.

"This was a freaky occurrence, it could have been much more serious," Couric wrote. "Ultimately, I'm relieved—even though several hours of a Saturday in June will always be missing for me."

The 69-year-old explained that June 27 began like any other day. She spent the morning browsing Aspen's farmers market before heading to the Aspen Institute, where she was scheduled to appear on two discussion panels. The last thing she remembers is stopping for lunch with her husband, John Molner. From that point forward, everything is a blank.

According to Molner, Couric successfully completed both panels before an intern alerted him that something wasn't right. Although she was awake and talking, she appeared confused, prompting a trip to Aspen Valley Hospital. 

Once there, doctors began asking basic orientation questions. "When I was asked the month, the year, and who was president, I got them wrong," Couric recalled. "I wasn't sure of the month. I thought it was 2024. And I believed Joe Biden was president."

Doctors initially feared she had suffered a stroke and immediately began stroke protocol. Fortunately, an MRI came back clear. As the evaluation continued, Molner watched his wife repeatedly introduce herself to nurses and ask the same questions over and over again. Hoping to reassure her, he wrote a handwritten note explaining where she was, why she was in the hospital and, perhaps most importantly, that her MRI was "CLEAN."

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Neurologist David Perlmutter explained in a separate post for Katie Couric Media that transient global amnesia is "a sudden, temporary loss of the ability to form new memories." Although the condition is considered scary, it typically resolves on its own, and the exact cause remains unknown. Potential triggers can include intense physical exertion or emotional stress, though Couric said none of the common explanations seemed to fit her experience.

Although Couric says she's tempted to watch recordings of the panels she participated in that day, she admitted she's "not quite ready" to revisit the hours her brain never recorded. Instead, she's focusing on the positive. "This was a freaky occurrence, it could have been much more serious," she wrote. "Ultimately, I'm relieved—even though several hours of a Saturday in June will always be missing for me."

William Adams, known professionally as Will.i.am, is not worried about AI in the music industry. 

The Black Eyed Peas frontman and tech entrepreneur spoke to Variety's co-president and co-editor-in-chief, RaminSetoodeh, at Cannes Lions. 

“Right now is the time for the dreamer, not the regurgitator of yesterday’s imaginations — new imagination because AI is not doing imagination yet, and so we have the chance to dream up new things,” he said. 

Will.i.am has written songs for artists like MariahCarey, MichaelJackson, and LadyGaga. 

“Yes, it’s gonna create better songs or the same type of songs or sometimes shitty songs,” he said about AI. “Just like I sometimes write shitty songs that I think are good … Anyways, whatever. It’s all subjective — what is good, what is bad.”

The songwriter and producer explained he’s more “worried about human greed” than musicians being replaced by technology.  

He reflected on the impact the printing press had on sheet music. Musicians could only share their songs as far as they could travel until sheet music was mass-produced.  

“You’re not gonna have Bach and Beethoven if it wasn’t for the printing press,” he said. “The printing press paved the way for new jobs to materialize like wood, stone, craftsmanship, master masons — and that lasted from 1500, 1600, 1700 uninterrupted [until] 1800, 1900.”

Will.i.am sees a similar pattern happening with AI and new technologies. 

“[They took] advantage of folks that didn’t understand the tech,” he said. “You’re supposed to dream up the new industry with it, just like the record industry was dreamt up.” 

He spoke about his “proof of life” idea to verify human authorship. A song composed by a person might take days or weeks, while AI can compose a song in a few minutes. Right now, these are compensated equally.  

“If we’re sharing the same file and it’s valued at the same fraction of a penny, that’s kind of inhumane because we’re not valuing the human effort to make it,” he said. “A diamond is not valued the same as a freaking pearl. A pearl is not valued the same as quartz.”

Will.i.am would like to create a “new file for humans,” which would include the meaning behind the piece. 

“I am the magnet of monetization because my ideas are my ideas,” he said. “I should be, or the creator should be, the one that benefits the most because the creator with their agent is the distributor, the point of sale, the human resource — it’s the agent that they own. They own their data. That is the world that we’re trying to create with FYI.AI.”

It’s finally here! In mid-June, snack sleuths posted pics of a rumored Little Debbie mashup that seemed almost too good to be true. The supposed union of the brand’s beloved Fudge Rounds and classic Oatmeal Creme Pies was a crave-worthy combo that sparked a social media frenzy. Now we finally have confirmation that our snacking dreams have come true…and yes, Little Debbie Fudge Round Creme Pies are real!

In what might be the announcement of the year, Little Debbie product manager Hannah Norman shared, “We wanted to create something truly spectacular for our fans by bringing together the best of two distinct snack worlds.” 

Norman continued, explaining, “The rich, fudgy texture of the Fudge Round combined with the nostalgic airy sweetness of our Oatmeal Creme Pie filling creates a flavor profile that is both brand new and comforting all at once. It’s the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers and creme pie enthusiasts alike.”

If you don’t already have a mental picture of this absolute deliciousness, here’s a little bit more about Little Debbie Fudge Round Creme Pies. The sumptuous sweet starts with a base made from two soft, chewy, chocolatey Fudge Round cookies and only gets better from there. 

As you might expect (or at the very least, might hope for), the individually wrapped treats are stuffed with the brand’s indulgently rich and dreamy Oatmeal Creme Pie filling. 

According to a recent press release, the new Little Debbie snack cakes drop in mid-July. Sadly, the brand did not provide a specific date. That means you’ll have to check your nearest grocery store, superstore, or other retailer daily starting July 15. 

Not sure which stores in your area carry Little Debbie products? Visit the manufacturer’s website here and click on the ‘Snack Finder.’ 

The must-have hybrid sweet snack is available in multi-pack boxes. And based on fans’ reactions to the rumored release back in June, you might want to pick up a few. 

When the @snackolator account teased the delish dessert (before the brand dropped the debut date) on Instagram, would-be shoppers wrote “I can’t wait. I'm definitely going to get several boxes” and raved, “This could be legendary.” We definitely agree!

Less than two months after the series debuted on Amazon Prime Video, Deadline reports that It's Not Like That will not be returning for a second season.

The Scott Foley and Erinn Hayes-led drama series currently has a perfect freshness score of 100% on Rotten Tomatoes; however, that isn’t enough to keep the series around, as after 8 episodes, the show will not be returning.

According to Deadline, the series cancellation was somewhat surprising as Amazon had recently released top 10 rankings, with the first on June 3 featuring the series at number 9 on the "global series list."

The series told the story of Lori (Hayes), recently divorced, and Malcolm (Foley), recently widowed, as they try to navigate their newly single lives and adapt to the ‘new normal’ with their family and friends.  

The series was created by former Parenthood writers Ian Deitchman and Kristin Robinson as part of Amazon’s The Wonder Project, an independent film and television studio specializing in Christian-themed content.

Speaking to Mama’s Geeky about the series, Foley shared, “The writing on this was so beautiful and simple, and it made me laugh.” While Hayes added, “For me, it’s the kind of television that I not just like to watch as an audience member, but I like to make as an actor. All the lives from reading it on day one felt full and lived in and developed.”

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Viewers can watch a trailer for the series here:

Fans took to social media to share their disappointment in the cancellation. One user wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “A disappointing update for fans. 📺💔 Another reminder of how competitive the streaming world has become, where even promising shows can struggle to continue.”

The complete first and only season of It’s Not Like That is streaming now on Amazon Prime Video.

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As soon as warmer temperatures arrive, many homeowners start turning their attention outdoors. Patios, decks and backyard spaces quickly become the go-to spots for everything from family dinners and weekend cookouts to quiet mornings spent enjoying a cup of coffee before the day begins.

Creating a welcoming outdoor area doesn't necessarily require a complete makeover. Sometimes all it takes is finding the right furniture to make a space feel more functional and inviting. With outdoor entertaining remaining a popular trend, shoppers are searching for pieces that withstand the elements while also providing a stylish place to gather with family and friends.

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IKEA

One outdoor furniture set that's catching attention right now is IKEA's NÄMMARÖ Table and 4 Armchairs, priced at $499.99. Designed to bring both comfort and durability to outdoor spaces, the set offers a dedicated place for dining, conversation and everyday relaxation.

The furniture is constructed from acacia wood, a naturally durable hardwood known for its dense wood fibers and long-lasting strength. That durability makes it particularly appealing for outdoor use, where furniture is exposed to changing weather conditions year-round. IKEA has also pre-treated the furniture to help provide additional protection against sun exposure, rain, stains and everyday wear and tear.

Related: Hobby Lobby's $17 Oversized Acacia Wood Serving Board Is the Perfect Summer Hosting Find

Another standout feature is its timeless design. Rather than following a trend that may feel outdated after a season or two, the classic look makes it easy to incorporate into a variety of outdoor aesthetics. Whether your patio leans modern, traditional or somewhere in between, the furniture can blend seamlessly into the surrounding space. It's also part of IKEA's NÄMMARÖ collection, allowing shoppers to add coordinating pieces and create a more cohesive outdoor setup.

Shoppers appear impressed by both the appearance and quality of the set. One customer, Amy, shared her experience, writing, "We were looking for a set that wouldn't be too large, and this fit the bill. We are very impressed with the quality and how nice it looks on our patio."

Finding outdoor furniture that balances durability, style, and functionality can be challenging, especially for homeowners with smaller patios or decks. This set appears to check many of those boxes while providing ample seating for family meals, outdoor entertaining and everyday enjoyment.

With outdoor living spaces continuing to serve as an extension of the home, investing in furniture designed to withstand years of use can help homeowners get more enjoyment from their backyard long after summer ends.

Related: I Went to Dollar Tree To Shop for Dinner and Came Back With These 4 Easy Meals

Prong, the veteran alternative metal band, continues to excite fans with back-to-back announcements.

After announcing their upcoming self-titled album, the trio is gearing up for a string of shows in Europe.

In an Instagram post, the band announced it will be returning for a nine-date European run this November for the Prong Uprising Tour.

The European tour kicks off on Nov. 13 in Rheine, Germany before heading to major cities in the Netherlands, Belgium and Denmark.

The tour concludes in Athens, Greece, on Nov. 22.

Prong Uprising Tour 2026 Dates:

Nov. 13 - Rheine, DE @ Level
Nov. 14 - Eindhoven, NL @ Helldorado
Nov. 15 - Kortrijk, BE @ DVG Club
Nov. 16 - Hannover, DE @ Musikzentrum
Nov. 17 - Essen, DE @ Turock
Nov. 18 - Herford, DE @ Kulturwerk
Nov. 19 - Copenhagen, DK @ Hotel Cecil
Nov. 20 - Aarhus, DK @ VoxHall
Nov. 22 - Athens, GR @ Gazarte

The upcoming trek continues Prong's steady touring schedule since reforming in 2002. The band disbanded in 1997 following the touring cycle for Rude Awakening. At that time, Victor later toured with Ministry and Danzig before reviving the metal band after five years.

Earlier this year, the metal legends, composed of Tommy Victor on lead vocals, Christopher Dean on bass and Tyler Joseph Bogliole on drums, completed a five-date European tour in March with performances in Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands.

From their comeback European tour, Prong is keeping the momentum going with a new album.

The news was announced by their new record label, Napalm Records, which revealed the trio's first album with the company.

With the new record arriving on Nov. 6, Prong also marks the band’s 14th studio LP since they debuted as a group in the late 80s.

Described as one of metal's most respected bands, Prong has consistently released acclaimed albums that have kept its music widely heard across TV, radio and streaming platforms for almost four decades.

Now, the band is set to release 11 powerful songs that serve as a statement of its identity.

The tracklist also includes two bonus tracks, giving fans a little extra alongside the main release.

Prong Tracklist:

The Banner
New Commission
The Uprising
Uncertain Truth
Fear The Sun
Commonsense Resolution
Doomed World
Proportionate Response
Transgression
Simulated Drowning
Our Continuance
Out of Body (Bonus Track)
Cruel Summer (Bonus Track)

Related: '80s Rock Band, Disbanded for Seven Years, Ranked Among 'Greatest Supergroups' of All Time

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Now that hot summer nights have officially set in, it's time to break out lighter, airy bedding that will keep you cool and comfortable all season long. If you've been searching for an affordable set that's both stylish and breezy enough for sweltering temperatures, Walmart has a bestselling option on sale for over 33% off right now. The Hitime 3-Piece Duvet Cover Set features a super soft, cotton-like fabric that's ideal for warm weather, and it comes in a choice of 18 stunning prints and colors. 

The pretty duvet set is currently on sale for as low as $20, down from $30, in the queen size. Though we love the French countryside vibes of the blue floral print, you can also shop it in a range of other geometric patterns and solid colors. It comes in twin- and king-sized options as well, and all three sizes come with a lightweight duvet cover and two matching pillowcases. 

Courtesy of Walmart

Made from 90 GSM microfiber material with cooling properties, this set is designed to feel soft, smooth to the touch, and breathable enough for year-round use. It has a durable construction that's fade-, shrink-, and wrinkle-resistant, with reinforced stitching that helps prevent tears or pulls. The floral designs offer a pretty, polished look that will brighten up any bedroom, while the solid color options are versatile enough to pair with any decor, from modern to minimalist. 

Maintenance is also super simple. The entire set is machine washable, allowing for hassle-free care. To keep all three pieces fresh and looking like new, simply wash them in cold water on a gentle cycle using mild detergent, and tumble dry them on low heat. 

Related: Walmart Has 'Great Summer Lounge Shorts' for Just $12, and They Come in 6 Colors

Multiple Walmart shoppers praised the bedding set for its "pretty" design and "buttery soft" fabric. One reviewer said that it "looks beautiful" in their bedroom, while another called it "comfy" and "smooth to the touch." A third buyer noted that it "washes well" and has an "accurate size and fit."

• Comfort Canopy Vines Duvet Cover Set, $30 (was $112) at Walmart
• IGI Full/Queen Comforter, $24 (was $37) at Walmart
• Wishead Cooling Blanket, $26 (was $53) at Walmart

If you're looking for an airy, summer-ready bedding set that will give your bedroom a fresh, updated feel for the season, the Hitime 3-Piece Duvet Cover Set checks all the right boxes. It's lightweight, breathable, and available in a wide range of colors and prints to suit anyone's style. Snag it for just $20 at Walmart before this limited-time flash deal ends. 

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Peanut butter and chocolate fans may want to make a little extra room in their freezer. I'm talking, mostly, to myself. Sam's Club has a new sweet treat that combines one of the most-loved candy flavors with a classic frozen dessert, and shoppers are already sharing their excitement online.

The new Reese's Sundae Cups are showing up at select Sam's Club locations, according to food blogger Mark Vayntraub, aka @markie_devo, and fans are calling the treat a must-try. The individual cups combine Reese's ice cream with peanut butter and chocolate swirls, then finish everything off with Reese's Pieces Minis for a crunchy topping.

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The new dessert gives shoppers a way to enjoy a Reese's-inspired sundae without having to make a trip to an ice cream shop. Instead of waiting in line for a specialty treat, you can grab a cup straight from the freezer whenever the craving hits.

Each pack comes with 12 individual 4-ounce cups, making them easy to keep on hand for summer snacks, weekend treats or a quick dessert after dinner. They're also a convenient option for families since everyone gets their own portion.

The Reese's Sundae Cups are currently spotted in the freezer aisle at some Sam's Club locations for around $10.44 per pack. Availability may vary by store, so shoppers will want to check their local inventory before heading out.

The launch has already caught attention on social media, where fans quickly shared their reactions. One commenter simply called the dessert "perfection," while others said they hoped the cups would make their way to Walmart or another big-box store.

Related: Costco's New Summer Cake Flavor Has Shoppers Saying It's 'Next Level'

There's a reason chocolate and peanut butter desserts have such a loyal following. The combination of sweet chocolate, salty peanut butter and a little crunch has been a favorite for decades, and this new Sam's Club find brings those flavors together in a cold, creamy treat.

Shoppers say the Reese's cups sound especially appealing for warm summer days when a regular candy bar just won't cut it.

The new cups could also be a fun addition to summer gatherings since they're already portioned and easy to serve. They're simple enough for an everyday treat but still feel a little more special than a standard scoop of ice cream.

For anyone who loves Reese's, this latest Sam's Club find might be worth a look. With shoppers already calling it a winning combination, these frozen treats could become a popular freezer aisle discovery this summer.

Related: Sam's Club's $40 16-Piece Stoneware Kitchen Upgrade Is So 'Beautiful,' Shoppers Are Snatching It Up in Pairs