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Which Big Box Membership Is Best for Retirees: Sam's Club, Costco, or BJ's?

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 12:21pm

According to a 2026 Investopedia report based on 2024 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data (the last year this data was collected), retirees spend an average of $662 a month on food. And if you belong to a big box store in an attempt to save money on groceries, you could be paying for the wrong membership.

Experts say you may want to reconsider your membership at your local big box store, especially if you signed up for more than one club to save money. That's because Sam's Club, Costco, and BJ's Wholesale aren't all created equally for retirees, and the experts we spoke to say you can save money by focusing on just one of these stores. So, which big box retailer will give retirees the most bang for their buck? You may be surprised.

Related: I Work With Retirees—These are the 3 Surprising Habits of People Who Are Genuinely Happy in Retirement

Costco

When it comes to big box stores, Clay Cary, Senior Trends Analyst at CouponFollow says Costco gets his seal of approval.

"Although I have no particular preference towards Costco over other warehouse clubs, I would definitely prefer this place for my retired friends," he says, adding that while Costco may not always have the lowest prices, it provides a number of additional services that retirees can benefit from.

He cites things like:

  • Pharmacy discounts
  • Optical services
  • Hearing aids
  • Travel discounts
BJ's Wholesale

Retirees looking for more flexibility may find themselves gravitating towards BJ's Wholesale instead, according to Rachid "Rush" Wehbi, CEO at Sell The Trend. "BJ’s can be a better shopping option for retirees living alone or with one other person," he says.

Plus, budget-conscious retirees may be drawn to BJ's less expensive membership for shoppers. "BJ’s has a Club membership for $60 a year, which is cheaper than Costco’s Gold Star membership for $65 a year, along with curbside pickup and coupon use," he continues.

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Sam's Club

Retirees who don't want to experience sticker shock when they sign up for a membership may want to consider Sam's Club, according to Michael Stein, Founder of Tarps Plus, Ecommerce Entrepreneur, and Business Growth and Retail Expert at Tarps Plus.

"Sam’s Club offers membership options for $50 for Club and $110 for Plus, which also receive a host of benefits that include fuel price discounts, Scan & Go, pharmacy and optical savings, and Plus 2 percent Sam’s Cash," he says.

So, Which One Should Retirees Actually Choose?

While all three stores have their pros and cons, the experts we spoke with recommended Costco over the other options. However, that doesn't mean that Costco is the best fit for every retiree, according to Cary. "For instance, if a person looks for a convenient shopping experience, he or she might be attracted by Sam's Club and its Scan & Go technology," he says. "At the same time, retirees living in areas where BJ's operates can enjoy extra manufacturer coupons which usually go unnoticed by other shoppers."

Finally, Cary says that another factor retirees may want to consider is where they can get the majority of their shopping done with fewer visits. "In other words, retirees need to calculate not only the price of a membership but the total amount of services they can obtain at once."

While Costco appears to reign supreme among the experts, especially given Cary's endorsement, those looking for more flexibility with bulk shopping or better affordability may want to give BJ's a second look.

Sources:

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

Country Music Hall of Fame Makes Major Kenny Chesney Announcement

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 12:17pm

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has announced a major new exhibition dedicated to Kenny Chesney.

The exhibit, titled "Kenny Chesney: Living in Fast Forward," will open July 23 and remain on display through June 2027, giving fans an in-depth look at the life and career of one of country music's biggest stars. The exhibition is presented by Blue Chair Bay Rum and is included with museum admission.

"Kenny Chesney's creative vision and intense drive to continue raising the bar has helped him reach staggering commercial and artistic highs," Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum CEO Kyle Young said in a statement. "He has broken almost as many records as he has made, and his work is far from done."

Related: Prayers Pouring in For Kenny Chesney As He Says Goodbye to His ‘Brother of the Sun’

The exhibit will trace Chesney's journey from performing in East Tennessee State University's bluegrass band to becoming one of the most successful touring artists of the modern era. Fans will be able to see instruments, awards, handwritten materials, photographs and personal memorabilia collected throughout his career.

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Announces New Kenny Chesney Exhibit (0:36)

Among the featured items are the Fender acoustic guitar Chesney played during his college years and early days in Nashville, the weathered rocking chair that inspired his beloved song "Old Blue Chair," a handwritten chord chart used during the recording of "You and Tequila," and the hat he wore on the cover of his 2024 album Born.

Related: Jason Isbell Helps Give America’s Hidden Hit-Making Studio Its Country Music Hall of Fame Moment

The exhibit will also feature a life-size replica of "Marley," the blue marlin that became a famous tour mascot, along with stage-worn clothing from his No Shoes Nation era and memorabilia from his record-setting stadium shows.

Kenny Chesney's Fender Concord acoustic guitar and Gibson Custom Shop Les Paul LPR-8 electric guitar.

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

For Chesney, selecting the pieces that would represent his life and career wasn't easy.

"When you're so busy living life — literally in fast forward — you rarely pause to think about all the miles traveled, the faces you've met along the way," Chesney said. "Trying to decide what things to send to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum that represent a whole lot of dreams, living, songs, the work and things you don't dare imagine was as hard as anything I've ever done."

The announcement comes during another landmark chapter in Chesney's career. Earlier this year, he became one of only a handful of artists ever to reach 100 entries on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart when "Carry On" debuted on the survey. The achievement placed him alongside country legends including George Jones and George Strait and further cemented his place among the genre's most successful artists.

Related: Beloved Voice of Country Music Dies at 67

The Hall of Fame exhibition follows a remarkable stretch for Chesney. After becoming the first country artist to headline a residency at Sphere Las Vegas in 2025, he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame later that year. He returned to Sphere this summer for a second residency while continuing to add new accomplishments to a career that has already produced more than 30 No. 1 hits and over 105 million RIAA-certified units.

The museum will also host special programming tied to the exhibit, including a July 25 interview with longtime Chesney producer Buddy Cannon, who has worked on 17 of the singer's albums.

Related: Kenny Chesney Just Reached a Massive Billboard Milestone

Walmart's 'Sturdy' $120 Outdoor Shed Offers 'Fantastic Storage' and Comes in 4 Colors

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 12:15pm

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If you're looking for a simple way to declutter your yard or deck for spring, Walmart's bestselling storage find can help you get organized without overcrowding your space. The Yodolla Outdoor Storage Shed is now on sale for as low as $120, down from $190, in the 5- by 3-foot size. It offers ample room to stash snowblowers, holiday decorations, gardening tools, pool supplies, and more. 

At 67 inches long, 37.4 inches wide, and 72.5 inches inches high, the shed is compact enough to fit in small yards, decks and other tight spaces while still providing plenty of space to stow outdoor gear. It comes in four colors, with the brown style marked at the steepest discount, and you can also shop it in 10 larger size options at varying prices. 

Yodolla Outdoor Storage Shed, From $120 (was $190) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Made of heavy-duty steel and aluminum, the Yodolla shed is designed to stand up to wind, rain, and other tough weather conditions. Its sloped roof helps prevent water accumulation and rust, while the overlapped wall panels are waterproof and moisture-resistant, ensuring your items stay protected in all weather conditions. The 72.5-inch entrance is taller than that of most sheds, allowing easier access and more headroom as you step in and out. 

The Yodolla shed is a Walmart bestseller for a reason, earning over 700 five-star reviews online. Shoppers praised its "sturdy" yet compact build, which is versatile enough for any outdoor setup no matter how big or small. One reviewer called it "just the right size," while another said it offers "fantastic storage."

Related: Walmart's Oversized $100 Cushioned Rocking Chair Is 'Wonderful' for Outdoor Lounging

With its impressive storage capacity, durable construction, and an ultra-affordable price, this outdoor storage shed can help streamline your backyard this summer. This deal won't last long though, so pick one up while it's still on sale for $70 off at Walmart.

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Costco's Charming 12-Piece Stoneware Dinnerware Set Will Transport You to the Sicily Coast

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 12:10pm

Sicilian dinnerware is defined by beautiful craftsmanship, boasting vibrant hand-painted designs featuring striking Mediterranean motifs, including everything from fruits and florals to medallions and more. Of course, authentic Sicilian dinnerware isn't exactly what one would consider to be inexpensive. Luckily, you can still get the Sicilian look without breaking the bank, thanks to none other than Costco. The retailer is currently selling a striking dinnerware set that brings the Sicily coast straight to your dinner table. And, it's less than $79 for the whole set!

Costco's Fitz and Floyd Sicily Blue 12-Piece Dinnerware Set will make you feel like you are dining right on the Sicily coast. It adds a pop of liveliness to any dining table. The set features a vibrant blue floral design on a crisp white background, with the salad plate donning a delightful bird accent for added whimsy and charm. The blue design on all of the dinnerware almost looks hand-painted, giving Italian artisan vibes.

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Fitz and Floyd Sicily Blue 12-Piece Dinnerware Set, $78.99 at Costco

Costco

Constructed from sturdy, durable stoneware, this set is built to last. It's also both microwave- and dishwasher-safe for convenience. This makes it practical to use daily. No need to hand-wash!

Related: Sam's Club Is Selling a New 30-Piece Pyrex Food Storage Set in the Prettiest Summery Colors

This dinnerware set comes with 12 pieces total, including four dinner plates, four salad plates and four all-purpose bowls. The dinner plates measure 11 inches in diameter and 1.5 inches in height; the salad plates measure nine inches in diameter and one inch in height; the bowls measure 6.25 inches in diameter and 2.5 inches in height, boasting a 26-fluid-ounce capacity.

Members love these dishes, giving the set an average rating of 4.6 stars on Costco.com.

"Good looking set….reminds me of my grandmother's set that did come from Sicily…the set adds something different than the usual drab place settings!" said one happy Costco shopper in a five-star review on Costco.com.

"Fabulous dishes," raved another fan in a five-star review on Costco.com. "Beautiful workmanship! Add a touch of whimsy to your table. I get excited each time I use them."

You can find this gorgeous dinnerware set on Costco.com. It is not sold in Costco warehouses. It retails for $78.99.

Related: Costco's New Outdoor End Table Doubles As a Chic Way to Keep Your Drinks Cold

Sweet Loren’s Just Expanded Its Ready-To-Bake Line With 2 First-Ever Treats

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 12:09pm

Sweet Loren's is expanding its lineup of ready-to-bake products with two new collections of breakfast-inspired treats that can certainly be enjoyed as a side, at snack time, or even as dessert.

The cult-favorite brand is credited with transforming the ready-to-bake refrigerated dough aisle with gluten-free, allergen-friendly, and vegan treats. Now, as the two-ingredient cobbler made with its sugar cookie dough goes viral, the company is hoping to bring that same vibrant energy to fans with two new takes on classic handheld favorites: Oatmeal Bars and Scones.

On Tuesday, June 16, the popular bakery brand revealed it would make several flavors available under each new line as part of a major category expansion into all-day snacking and breakfast goodies, all of which feature "fresh-baked goodness with a taste worth savoring" and refreshed packaging.

Sweet Lorens Debuts 2 New Ready-to-Bake Breakfast Categories

"Sweet Loren's is built around bringing better-for-you, bakery-fresh joy to people's homes, and breakfast is one of the biggest moments where we saw a real gap," Loren Castle, founder and CEO of Sweet Loren's, explained in a statement. "We wanted to bring the same trusted, no-compromise approach to mornings. These products make it easier to start the day with fresh-from-the-oven favorites that taste so delicious you will want to slow down and savor them."

Related: Pillsbury’s Brand-New Cookie Dough Flavor Is Heading to Walmart—And Fans Say It ‘Sounds So Good’

And just like the rest of Sweet Loren's lineup, its new Ready-to-Bake Oatmeal Bars and Scones are also free from gluten, dairy, and the "big nine" allergens (milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame).

  • Ready-to-Bake Oatmeal Bars: Fresh-from-the-oven oatmeal bars made in under 15 minutes. The brand suggested they're perfect for busy mornings, whether you bake fresh or prep ahead for the week and deliver "feel-good fuel" with six grams of protein and three to four grams of fiber per serving (varies by variety). Available in Chocolate Chunk, Apple Cinnamon, and Maple Brown Sugar flavors.
  • Ready-to-Bake Scones: Bakery-quality scones that bake effortlessly at home in about 15 minutes, with portion-controlled packaging that lets consumers bake all eight or one at a time (even in a toaster oven). Available in Chocolate Chunk and Cinnamon Brown Sugar flavors that deliver a warm, coffeehouse-style breakfast experience.
Sweet Loren's new Chocolate Chunk Scones.

Sweet Loren's

All of the new Sweet Loren's doughs have begun rolling out at Target, Wegmans, Harris Teeter, and other retailers nationwide, according to the official press release. The company said fans will find them in the refrigerated dough section, next to the brand's other ready-to-bake pastries (prices may vary). To find it at a store near you, visit the company's official website.

Next: Nestlé Toll House Just Reimagined Its Classic Cookie Dough in 3 ‘Bold’ New Ways

Chiefs' Rashee Rice Released From Jail After Serving 30 Days For Probation Violation

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 12:04pm

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice was released from Dallas County jail on Tuesday, June 16, after he served a 30-day sentence for violating the terms of his probation.

In a video shared by Fox 4 News on X, Rice was seen exiting the building wearing a hoodie and walking backwards to avoid being seen by reporters. He then sprinted away and into a car that was waiting for him. Harold R. Kuntz added that he was "allowed to visit Parkland Hospital for rehab after his knee surgery per Court records. Andy Reid mentioned Rice will be 'back up here and working' last week at the Final Minicamp Presser.

Rice was scheduled and is out today. He was allowed to visit Parkland Hospital for rehab after his knee surgery per Court records. Andy Reid mentioned Rice will be "back up here and working" last week at the Final Minicamp Presser. https://t.co/GiLeV3LWdf

— Harold R. Kuntz (@HaroldRKuntz3) June 16, 2026

Rice was initially taken into custody on May 19 after testing positive for marijuana, which violated his five-year probation for his role in a 2024 high-speed multi-vehicle accident that left multiple people injured on a highway in Dallas, Texas.

Before he went to jail, Rice had surgery on his knee in May, having a clean-up procedure for debris in his right knee, which had been causing inflammation.

The wide receiver missed all of the team's voluntary offseason workouts as well as mandatory minicamp. But, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said he expects Rice to report on time to training camp at the end of July.

"We're moving forward as normal as we go here," Reid said during voluntary workouts. "When he gets back, we've got to get him caught up in doing what he needs to do, and make sure he gets it. It's not an easy thing he's going through.

"Life lessons are important," Reid added, "but we're all given chances to learn, and he's in that position now."

Last season with the Chiefs, Rice served a six-game NFL suspension for the car crash. He returned to practice on October 15 and made his debut in the Chiefs' October 19 game against the Las Vegas Raiders. On December 24, Rice was placed on season-ending injured reserve due to lingering concussion symptoms. He finished the year with 53 receptions for 571 yards and five touchdowns.

Simon Cowell's Fiancée Reflects on Pregnancy During Their Affair: 'One of the Hardest Times of My Life'

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 11:32am

Simon Cowell's relationship with Lauren Silverman was a hot topic for tabloids, seeing as the two had an affair while Lauren was still married. She now gives a peek into the moment she learned she was pregnant during one of the "hardest times" and the divorce that followed.

Appearing as a guest on the Happy Mum podcast, the entrepreneur admits that learning she was pregnant with her son Erik marked the end of her marriage to real estate developer Andrew Silverman. The two already shared a son, Adam, when Lauren got pregnant with Cowell's child during the affair.

"There's so many emotions that went with that, because it was the end of my marriage, obviously," she explained. "Looking back on that time, it was one of the hardest times of my life because I'm so— I don’t want to say regretful, because I don’t regret anything… Do I wish it had happened a different way and that I could go back and change certain things? Of course I do."

She adds that everything "happens for a reason," but admits she would go back and "take away the hurt" that she caused to her ex-husband and the people around them. Regardless of the public drama that occurred at the time, she was ready to welcome her son into the world.

"It was just one of those moments where I knew it was right and that was what I wanted and that Simon was the person I wanted to spend my life with," she shared. "And so, however we got there and however it happened, I just believed that it was meant to be."

Cowell and Lauren had been known acquaintances through similar social circles when rumors circulated of them being together in 2012. While Lauren was still married, Simon's reps denied the speculations. Their relationship became public when news of the pregnancy was announced, with Silverman filing for divorce and citing adultery as the reason.

Related: 'America's Next Top Model' Star Angelea Preston Responds to Tyra Banks Suing Netflix: 'Now You Know How We Feel'

Lauren admits that she struggled to enjoy her second pregnancy due to feeling like she was walking around with a "scarlet letter." With Cowell being a celebrity, the news of the affair landed her on the pages of every magazine. It's been years since the divorce, with Lauren now proud of the relationship she's been able to build with her ex-husband for the sake of their son.

When it comes to reflecting on what happened, Lauren says she's been working on herself and understands people's opinions at the time. "So I was just like, 'It's fine, it's cool, I deserve it.' But now as I've gotten all these years in, I feel for me that I've done the work on myself, I have forgiven myself, I have done whatever I need to do to make peace with the situation," she said.

Cowell proposed to Lauren on Christmas Eve 2021 while on a family vacation. She even legally changed her name to the America's Got Talent host's ahead of their nuptials. Silverman has also moved on and remarried.

This Iconic 1980s Pop Group Was the First Western Pop Group to Sing in Communist China

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 11:20am

George Michael wore the infamous jeans. Andrew Ridgeley had the hair. And in April 1985, they stepped off a plane in Beijing into a world different from their life in the UK. No screaming fans at the airport. No paparazzi. The locals looked at the two British boys like they had just dropped out of a flying saucer.

While history books often describe this milestone almost as a trivia point, its true meaning resides with the local youth in the Workers' Gymnasium. These teenagers sat in the audience, grappling with a spectacle unlike anything they had ever witnessed before.

Now, the public gets to see the footage.

An official announcement confirmed the theatrical run: “In 1985, WHAM! made history as the first Western pop group to perform in communist China. We’re very excited to announce that a new telling of this extraordinary story is coming to the big screen featuring newly restored footage and previously unseen archive footage 🇨🇳 WHAM! 10 Days In China in cinemas worldwide July 28. Tickets on sale June 24.”

To get the concert on the books, managers spent 18 months talking to Chinese bureaucrats. They had to print two versions of the concert program, one with the lyrics, one with state-approved translations. They even had to sound-check the audience.

View this post on Instagram

When the bass line of "Club Tropicana" hit the speakers, the crowd didn’t scream. They froze. 15,000 people stared. Local police ordered everyone to stay seated. Moving to the beat was forbidden.

But Michael kept singing.

By the time the band launched into "Careless Whisper," something shifted. Young people stood up. They started swaying. This documentary puts fans in the middle of the moment. The film features restored film reels that sat in archives for forty years. You see the confusion in the eyes of the young Chinese students who had never heard a drum machine before. You see the look on the faces of the ministry officials watching from the balcony.

It is an account of a concert where pop music was more than doing the jitterbug while Michael and Ridgley charmed fans. It was a window into the western world.

The film opens globally on July 28, with tickets on sale June 24.

The Retirement Habit Researchers Say Could Add Years to Your Life

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 11:06am

If you have been skipping the gym in retirement, a new study may be the push you need to get back to it. In June 2026, the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health released a study that, they say, unlocks the secret of longevity. The study was published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, and involved following 30 years' worth of information that was collected from almost 150,000 adults who participated in three separate studies.

According to the findings, one activity appeared to reduce premature death by 13 percent. We spoke with two experts to discuss these findings and learn how retirees can use this information to ensure their golden years are as happy and healthy as possible.

The Habit That Could Add Years to Your Life

The Harvard findings indicate that 90 to 120 minutes per week of strength training could dramatically reduce your risk of premature death. The report says that those who participated in certain activities, like:

  • Pushups
  • Squats
  • Lunges
  • Weightlifting

Could lower their general risk of death by 13 percent, risk of death due to heart disease by 19 percent, and reduce their risk of death from neurological diseases (like Alzheimer's) by 27 percent, all when compared to those who did not participate in any strength training activities.

Why Your Muscles Hold the Key to a Longer Life

Muscle is the organ of longevity, according to Ashley Katzenback, PT, DPT, Cape Concierge Physical Therapy. "It keeps us out of nursing homes by building bone density and thus preventing hip fractures," she says, adding that it also:

  • Regulates blood sugar
  • Protects brain health
  • Prevents injury
  • Creates independence
  • Supports heart health
  • Boosts metabolism

"Muscle is the master of metabolic health," she continues. "It takes glucose from your bloodstream and stores it as energy to maintain healthy blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity. Muscle generates energy, burns fat, and reduces inflammation."

But muscle also plays a very important role as we age, according to Dr. Andrew Gorecki, PT, DPT, FAFS, Owner of Superior Physical Therapy, and Co-founder and CEO of MovementRx . "After 50, adults lose about one percent of muscle per year without resistance work," he says.

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You Don't Need a Gym — Here's How to Start

While 90 to 120 minutes may sound like a lot up front, Dr. Gorecki says that this amount of exercise actually breaks down into manageable sessions. "That's three 30-40 minute sessions, or 15 to 20 minutes most days," he says. "You don't need a gym membership. You don't need expensive equipment."

Dr. Gorecki shares that you can get away with a pair of light dumbbells to start (he recommends five to 10 pounds), a resistance band, and a sturdy chair. "Total cost under fifty dollars."

If you're looking for an easier way to get started, or else want to work with activities that you may already be doing, Samantha Cubbins, Strength and Conditioning Coach and Lifting Club Ambassador with Gymshark, says you can begin with a little yoga, like a Sun Salutation.

“A sun salutation is a series of yoga poses which involve a standing forward bend, half-plank position, downward facing dog, and more," she continues, calling it a beginner-friendly move that combines mindfulness through breathing. "Beyond the mental benefits, this sequence and yoga in general help to increase strength, flexibility, and balance, which are all important foundations as you age."

Next, she says you can add some core-strength movements, like those mentioned in the study. "These movements help strengthen the key muscles we use for everyday activities, while building bone density, which is important as we age and become more vulnerable to falls," she shares. "I suggest incorporating weights and/or resistance bands to further boost these benefits while you’re younger."

If those ideas aren't appealing to you, consider some things that you might already be doing for fun. Cubbins says that things like dancing, walking, and swimming can all provide extra health benefits, often without feeling like a workout.

The Brain Benefits Are Just as Impressive

While a lot has been said about the physical benefits of strength training, Dr. Gorecki says we can't ignore what it does for brain health. "Strength training doesn't just protect the body. It protects the brain," he says, adding that resistance exercise increases blood flow to the brain, drives the release of growth factors like brain-derived neurotrophic factors (BDNFs) that support neuron health, and reduces systemic inflammation that contributes to cognitive decline.

These are major benefits, especially when you consider how important taking these extra steps is as you age. "A 35-year-old who doesn't strength train loses some performance," he says. "A 70-year-old who doesn't strength train loses the ability to live alone." The same lost muscle has wildly different downstream effects depending on age."

The benefits of this kind of workout seem clear, and it sounds like the only hard part of getting started is finding the 15 minutes a day to squeeze it in.

Sources:

Related: I Work With Retirees—These are the 3 Surprising Habits of People Who Are Genuinely Happy in Retirement

Ezra Sosa Reveals the Surprising Way He Landed 'Dancing With the Stars': 'I Felt Like I Catfished Them' (Exclusive)

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 11:00am

Of all Dancing with the Stars pros' origin stories, Ezra Sosa's might be the most unconventional. The 25-year-old has quickly made a name for himself on the hit ABC reality series in his two seasons, going from first eliminated with Anna Delvey to making the finale alongside Jordan Chiles. And, for someone who helped bring DWTS into its TikTok era, it only makes sense his start with the show began online as well.

"It was during COVID, so not a typical audition," Sosa recalls in an exclusive sitdown with Parade. "It was all through Zoom. And actually, I felt like when I got on the show, I had catfished them."

Ezra Sosa on Drag Race, Coming Out, and Manifesting His DWTS Future (2:46)

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Now it makes sense why his first partner was one of the most notorious con artists in recent memory. But, as he goes on to clarify, it doesn't mean he had set up a fake dancer to trick producers to put him on the show.

"I just sat on Zoom with them, and I was just sending them pictures and videos of me," he explains. "It's not like you're meeting them in real life. So I'm like, 'What if I meet them and I'm just not what they expect?' I remember every interview and meeting I had with them, they kept asking my height, like, 'You're six feet, right?' I'm like, 'Yeah, I'm six feet!' And when I met them in person, they were like, 'Oh, we just didn't really believe you.'"

Sosa was doing a residency in Vegas at the time he booked DWTS, choosing to leave the job even when producers told him the gig may not be a sure thing. But, for that big leap he took into the unknown, he did many more during what he recounts as a rigorous audition process. Of course, there was plenty of showcasing choreography across myriad dance styles. But producers also wanted to find out more about Sosa's personal life, asking for videos and pictures with his family.

"And then I got the call. They're like, 'Welcome to the family,'" he says. "And I'll never forget that day. I looked in the mirror and I was like, 'Ezra, your life is going to change forever.' And it did."

Related: Derek Hough Reveals the 1 Thing ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Fans Get Most Wrong About the Show (Exclusive)

To be fair, it wasn't an immediate liftoff for Sosa as soon as he arrived in the ballroom. He was brought on board in Season 30, serving as an emergency fill-in should any male pro be unable to perform that week. The next year, he was part of the show's troupe. And the year after, in 2023, he finally made his debut, filling in for Artem Chigvintsev when he tested positive for COVID. And, shockingly, the year he got the call up, he wasn't even supposed to be on the show at all.

"That season, I wasn't asked back," Sosa reveals. "That season they didn't bring troupe back. They're like, 'Ezra, we're sorry, you're not promoted this year, nor are we bringing troupe back.' I wasn't technically a part of the show that year. So I was super bummed.

"I was in Utah, I was flying back to LA. And I land and I get missed calls from Miss Deena Katz, our casting producer, and our EP. And I answer, and she was like, 'Oh, so unfortunate situation: Artem has COVID. But this means it's a great opportunity for you.'"

Sosa was suddenly thrust into the spotlight, partnered with Charity Lawson to hopefully keep the former Bachelorette in the competition another week. But he admits there was surprisingly little anxiety, despite the pressure-filled situation. There may be good reason for that, though, and it has to do with, of all people, Jojo Siwa.

Related: ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Judge Bruno Tonioli Reveals Exactly How Long He Plans to Stay on the Show

"We've been friends for so long," Sosa says about his relationship with the dancer and singer, who competed on Season 31. "And I'll never forget. I was on tour with her, and she looked at me and she goes, 'I want you to be a pro on Dancing with the Stars one day.' And so we just started playing Dancing With the Stars, and here we are, four years later!"

"Playing" DWTS, as Sosa explains, is essentially simulating a week of the show. During the offseason, Siwa will reach out to him, giving him a song and a theme for the "week." He'll then choreograph a routine, and teach it to her during a studio session. Despite all the practice he does with a fantasy version of the show, however, he affirms that the real deal is its own beast.

"I always say no matter, no matter how much practice or prepping that you can do, nothing can prepare you for being a pro," he explains. "I probably came up with 15+ dances with Jojo Siwa. And then my first partner was Anna Delvey. There is no way to prepare for that."

Even though he doesn't believe it's applicable, the unique tactics he's done to help get on the show and remain in fighting shape show that Ezra is a professional in every sense of the word. And, no matter what situation or what partner may be thrown his way, he has the talent to skillfully land on his feet — quite literally.

Related: ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Launching New Spinoff to Crown the Next Pro

8 Under-$25 Stylish Costco Finds to Pack for Your Summer Getaway

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 10:56am

Once upon a time, I basically tried to fit my entire closet in a suitcase whenever I'd go on vacation. I wanted all of the options. Every single one of them. Now that I'm older and wiser, I realize that less is truly more. If you're strategic about what you pack for vacay, you're going to save yourself a lot of trouble in the end—and I'm not just talking about those extra baggage fees.

I'm getting ready to spend two weeks in Europe this summer, and my focus is gathering stylish, multi-tasking pieces that I can wear in different combinations depending on where I'm headed that day. From easy-breezy pants to staples like the perfect-fitting T-shirt, I'm trying to streamline it all—and keep everything within a certain budget. That led me to wonder how much of my vacation wardrobe I could find at Costco, and honestly, I'm so impressed with what's in stock right now.

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Read on to see our favorite Costco clothing picks that are perfect for whatever summer vacation plans you have this season. Bonus: They're all under $25, so you can look chic on a budget. From the beach to al fresco dining to enjoying sun-drenched days, these clothes from Costco will fit all your summer plans.

How to Streamline Your Packing List

Kathrin Ziegler / Getty Images

Nobody necessarily sets out to overpack, but once you start, it's easy to get carried away. Streamlining what you bring on vacation starts with packing for outfits, not occasions. We know it's so tempting to toss in just-in-case pieces, but those extras are usually what turn a manageable suitcase into an overstuffed one.

Instead, build a small capsule wardrobe of versatile items that can be mixed and matched. Think neutral bottoms, a few tops that coordinate with everything and one layer for cooler evenings. Shoes are another common packing pitfall, so try limiting yourself to a comfortable walking pair, a dressier option and perhaps sandals if the destination calls for them.

Related: Loft's Chic Linen-Blend Mini Dress Is a Total Summertime Must-Have

Under-$25 Costco Finds to Pack for Vacation

Shorts, pants, sweet dresses and wardrobe basics—here's what to pick up on your next trip to Costco for all of your summer getaways.

1. Kirkland Signature Women's Scoop Neck Pima Cotton Tee 2-Pack, $21.99 at Costco

Shoppers love the Kirkland Signature Women's Scoop Neck Pima Cotton Tee 2-Pack so much, they call it "one of the best clothing buys at Costco" in the reviews section. Between the soft pima cotton and the flattering design, these are a must for pairing with pants, shorts or skirts.

2. Gap Women's Cotton Gauze Button-Up Shirt, $16.99 at Costco

Costco

Is there anything more quintessentially summer than a gauzy, linen-like button-up shirt? Costco sells the Gap Women's Cotton Gauze Button-Up Shirt in three different colorways: white, blue and green. While customers note that it runs large, if you go with an oversized fit, you can wear it as a relaxed coverup by the pool. You can also throw it over a tank top or sleeveless dress, pair it with shorts or wear it with pants.

3. DKNY Women's Ruffle Sleeve One-Piece Swimsuit, $22.99 at Costco

Costco

Bathing suits with a shirred bodice are super flattering because they tend to provide more definition to your waist, and that's exactly what this DKNY Women's Ruffle Sleeve One-Piece Swimsuit achieves. Plus, that subtle ruffle at the sleeves adds a nice little detail without being over the top. You can buy this swimsuit at Costco in either the green hue shown or black.

Related: These Ultra-Popular Waterproof Sandals Just Showed Up at Costco

4. Three Dots Women's Pull-On Pant, $15.99 at Costco

Costco

Not everything in your vacation capsule wardrobe has to be a solid colorway. Mix things up with a little pattern, like these loose-fitting Three Dots Women's Pull-On Pants. They come in either the blue floral colorway shown above or a preppy green stripe. You can also buy them in basic black, which will obviously go with anything. In one customer review, a Costco shopper says these pants are "lightweight and a great drapey fit. Perfect for a summer occasion that requires a little dress up."

5. Felina Women's Ribbed Tank 3-Pack, $15.99 at Costco

Costco

Even if you don't love the idea of exposing your arms during the summer, a good set of tank tops is important for layering purposes. The Felina Women's Ribbed Tank Top 3-Pack is kind of perfect because it includes tanks in each of these three colorways: white, black and gray. These will look great under that gauzy Gap button-up above, or even under a lightweight summer blazer.

6. Adrianna Papell Women's Airflow Short, $11.99 at Costco

Costco

If you struggle with finding shorts that are "just right," let me introduce you to these Adrianna Papell Women's Airflow Shorts. They feature an easy pull-on styling, come in three different colors (green, navy or black) and have a classic but airy design.

"Nice looking short," writes a Costco member in their review. "Good length for me. They look dressy but could be worn casually too. Washed well."

7. Halston Women's Dress, $19.99 at Costco

Costco

I'd be remiss if I didn't include at least one dress on this list, and the Halston Women's Dress is a lightweight little number that you can either dress up or down depending on the day's vacation activity. It's offered in this green and white print or a solid black colorway—both feel sophisticated while still embracing a casual vibe.

8. Andrew Marc Women's Jumpsuit, $19.99 at Costco

Costco

When you're trying to maximize suitcase space, there's nothing quite like a one-and-done outfit, like this Andrew Marc Women's Jumpsuit. It comes in either a navy or black colorway, and it features a cropped hem on the pants and a sleeveless top. Pair it with sneakers for a day of walking around or dressier sandals for an evening out.

Stock up on these summer staples on your next Costco run, and you'll be ready for all your vacation plans this season.

Related: 7 Best Items To Buy From Costco’s Produce Section (and 5 To Skip)

Your Favorite Artist Is Coming to One of These Cities This Summer — Here's How to Build a Trip Around It

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 10:55am

You don't need to deal with the hassle of flying overseas for a good time; this summer's music concert schedule is proving to be the hottest getaway ticket to make mini-vacations out of seeing your favorite acts. Rush, Bon Jovi, Lionel Ritchie,Ariana Grande, My Chemical Romance, and more are running the full gamut of musical tastes, hitting bucket-list cities across the States.

Related: Bon Jovi Makes Request Amid First Tour in Four Years

Here's your city-by-city guide to curating an unforgettable live show with what major destinations have to offer in spots such as New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas.

New York City View this post on Instagram

Acts stopping here:

  • Bon Jovi - Madison Square Garden nine-night-residency, July 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23 & 26
  • Ariana Grande - Barclays Center July 13 through July 19
  • Rush - Madison Square Garden, July 28, 30, August 1, 3
  • My Chemical Romance - Citi Field, Aug. 9

Where to eat/drink: Besides authentic NY slices (Joe's Pizza, obviously), the blocks around MSG have so much to offer. There's an omakase tasting menu at Mari, burgers at a retro burger stand called Lovely's Old Fashioned, and halal faves, including Hyderabadi Zaiqa. Grab drinks at Whiskey Vault Parlour Room. For those heading to Citi Field, a global foodie crawl is worth taking over at Roosevelt Avenue. Don't forget to join the Black Parade for drinks at Kelly's Pub or see the Citi Field crowd fill in from A+ Roof Bar at the Parc Hotel

What to do: For a mix of classic theatricality that combines rock and roll with iconic music, check out The Rocky Horror Picture Showat Studio 54, which features a stacked cast including Luke Evans and Juliette Lewis. For the more MCR and 80's rock crowd, The Phantom of the Operaoffers an immersive walk-through setting in Masquerade, an interactive theater experience that has fans coming face-to-face with the Angel of Music himself. Ariana fans can, of course, go and catch a bubble (train) to Wicked on Broadway.

Boston

Acts stopping here:

  • Noah Kahan - Fenway Park July 7 through July 11
  • Lionel Ritchie plus Earth, Wind and Fire - TD Garden July 8
  • Ariana Grande - TD Garden July 22 through July 25
  • Chris Stapleton - Fenway Park August 14 and 15

Where to eat/drink: Summer lobster rolls and oysters on the waterfront are always a good go-to. Some of our current dining stops are Neptune Oyster and Row 34. Drinks on cobblestone streets will typically lead to beer institutions dating back to the era of the founding fathers, like the Bell in Hand Tavern or the Green Dragon Tavern.

What to do: Take a day trip to Cape Cod or walk the Freedom Trail for some fun history. The younger crowd should check out bookstores like Trident Booksellers & Cafe or meet new folks at the interactive adult playground at the Lawn on D.

Related: Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater Split After 3 Years Together

Chicago

Acts stopping here:

  • Morgan Whallen - Soldier Field, June 19 and 20
  • Lionel Richie with Earth, Wind, and Fire - United Center, June 26
  • Noah Kahan - Wrigley Field, July 14 and 15
  • Rush - United Center, July 16, 18, 20, and 22
  • BTS - Soldier Field, Aug. 27

Where to eat/drink: Check out River North for nightlife and the bar scene. Chicago, of course, has a massive deep-dish pizza (Lou Malnati's) and hot sandwich culture scene. There's Mr. Beef, which inspired the hit TV series The Bear, or the iconic chain Portillo's, which boasts an accessible and expansive menu (the chocolate cake shake has a full slice of devil's food goodness mixed in). For more elevated fare, there's Girl & the Goat or Au Cheval.

What to do: Head to city landmarks Millennium Park and the Chicago Riverwalk. BTS ARMY has its own ARMYRANG Chicago Vendor Market on the day of the K-Pop boy band's tour date as well.

Los Angeles

Acts stopping here:

  • Ariana Grande - Kia Forum, June 17 through June 20
  • Ed Sheeran - SoFi Stadium August 8
  • Lionel Ritchie with Earth, Wind, and Fire - Intuit Dome August 9
  • Santana with the Doobie Brothers - The Hollywood Bowl, August 13
  • Foo Fighters - The Hollywood Bowl August 22
  • BTS - SoFi Stadium, September 1, 2, 5, and 6

Where to eat/drink: The Sunset Strip is closer to the Hollywood and DTLA venues and is a hub for music aficionados with dining staples featuring BOA Steakhouse or coastal Mexican cuisine at Casa Madera. Over in West Hollywood, the Rainbow District is a good side quest with quick bites and trendy sit-down spots from 33 Taps, a sports bar chain where you can catch FIFA finals while in town, to a quieter bite at Coucou, a French bistro. The drink scene can be pretty tropical, with Tiki Spots across town from WeHo's The Lucky Tiki to Tiki Kai in Hermosa Beach, within drivable distance between venues.

View this post on Instagram

What to do: Outside of the theme park scene at Disneyland and Universal Studios, which are check-this-off-the-bucket-list stops, we'd recommend other tourist attractions; there is so much LA has to offer. The entertainment venue in Inglewood that houses the KIA Forum, SoFi Stadium, and Intuit Dome also offers on-site activities that are quickly becoming hot tickets. The level of immersive movie and sports-viewing at Cosm, with themed menus and party vibes, is not to be missed. Over by DTLA, there's The Obscure, an immersive cocktail journey told through story and a fun reason to dress up.

To relax, check out more straightforward beach spots such as Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach, where all you need is a bathing suit and a towel to lie on the sand by the ocean without the overstimulating chaos of, say, the Santa Monica Pier. For spa getaways near the beach cities, Den Mother in Venice Beach has garden-setting massages and facials you can book with friends. If your time is tight, there are two major 24-hour Korean spas in LA, WiSpa and Spa Palace, where you can enter with general admission that would include access to levels of wellness saunas and hot/cold soaking tubs readily available with massage and facial beauty treatments during daytime hours as an add-on for an additional charge.

Las Vegas View this post on Instagram

Acts stopping here:

Where to eat/drink: The biggest In-N-Out on the Vegas Strip is a multi-level experience that just opened. There's also a bounty of celebrity chef destinations, including dishes from Gordon Ramsay, Guy Fieri, and Martha Stewart. But it's the more unique offerings, such as Chef Roy Choi'sBest Friend and Chef Truck in collaboration with filmmaker Jon Favreau, that we crave the fusion flavors of. Then there are Michelin-level experiences from Wolfgang Puckand José Andrés.

Drinks on the strip are a fun adventure (throw a chip and you'll hit a bar), and yet we love the hidden spots, such as secret bars like Here Kitty, Kitty Vice Den at Resorts World, or Ghost Donkey at the Cosmopolitan. Food halls are also a must for road tripping across the country's foodie-favorite spots in one area. At the stacked Eat Your Heart Out food hall at Durango Casino & Resort, you can hit NY's Prince Street Pizza and CA's Irv's Burgers. You can also check out a fusion of flavors at Famous Foods Street Eats at Resorts World, with hot honey chicken from Streetbird or Michelin-plate-notable Geylang Claypot Rice.

Where to go: In recent years, Las Vegas has expanded beyond being a gambling capital. Keeping cool while having fun is key during the summer months, and AREA15 has it all with the whimsical liminal art installation Meow Wolf's Omega Mart, year-round haunts at Universal Horror Unleashed, an escape-room-esque John Wick experience, and alternative nightlife with the sexy intrigue of dancing the night away at Oddyssey Manor or catching nightly resident neon-fueled EDM DJs.

If you want to be outdoors before the show, head to a day club, spa pool, or both. Top club vibes are at the Encore Beach Club or Marquee at the Cosmopolitan. For a more relaxed aquatic excursion, there is the Fontainebleau Lapis Spa and incredible pool deck, and the immersive Awana Spa at Resorts World for a tucked-away retreat moment of zen.

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This 2017 Movie Was Inspired by a Cult Non-Fiction Book—and It’s Ranked as One of the Best Stephen King Adaptations

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 10:46am

There have been many Stephen King adaptations over the years, and some are better than others. 1922, a Netflix movie released in 2017, is one of those that is on the “great” list.

1922 landed at No. 4 on the Rotten Tomatoes list for best King adaptations. It’s based on the novel from 2010 of the same name, and it’s one of those adaptations that King is happy with — which doesn’t always happen!

The Netflix movie (and the novella) follows the story of a rancher who has the plan to kill his wife. He even convinces his teenage son to join in with the plan, as they can all benefit financially from her death. After all, the cost of divorce is too high, so this rancher just wants a way out.

In a 2017 interview, King made it clear that he was happy with the production and how the movie developed. It didn’t remind him of the original inspiration for his psychological thriller, but it did remind him of the 2007 movie There Will Be Blood. King said, "It has this sort of poisonous effect, it just sort of sticks there because some of the images are so good."

The movie boasts a 92% score from the critics on Rotten Tomatoes. Viewers weren't as impressed, with it landing a 58% popcornmeter score. Most of the praise is for the performances on the screen and the story of how guilt affects a person's mental health.

The novel itself isn’t based on a true crime, despite it feeling like it’s a story that could have happened. It is based on a non-fiction book with a cult following, though, Wisconsin Death Trip by Michael Lesy.

King was captivated by the haunting photographs and details of bizarre crimes in the non-fiction book. He would stare at the faces and be taken in by the sheer “deprivation” that had been captured in the photos. He wanted to create a story that would match that feeling he had, and so the novella was born. King says on his own website, "I was impressed by the rural isolation of these photographs, and the harshness and deprivation in the faces of many of the subjects. I wanted to get that feeling in my story."

1922 is a novella found in a collection of short stories titled Full Dark, No Stars. It’s one of the creepiest of King’s novels, and the movie captures the heart of the story.

Amazon's $20 Linen Button-Down Is 'Beautiful,' Breezy, and ‘Perfect’ for Summer

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 10:45am

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Few fabrics say summer like linen. It's light, breathable, and looks pulled-together with almost no effort — a go-to for beach trips, errands, and warm-weather days. The only drawback? Real linen can be expensive and tends to wrinkle easily, so a lower-maintenance option is always a great find. 

Right now, the Akefun Linen Shirt is on sale at Amazon for $20 ahead of Prime Day. Despite the name, it's not actually linen — it's made from 100% cotton with a linen-like look and feel, so you get that breezy summer style without the stiffness or the higher price tag. The casual button-down comes in six easy-to-style colors: sky blue, white, army green, teal, coffee, and beige. 

Akefun Women's Linen Shirt, $20 (was $25) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

No matter the color you choose, this top has a light, flowy feel that works just about anywhere you'll go this summer — from the office to weekend brunch or a get-together with friends. It features a classic casual button-up look with a crisp collar that shoppers call “beautiful” and expensive-looking.  While it is a long sleeved shirt that comes with cuffs, you can always roll them up for a more relaxed, breezy look.

It’s also easy to style in different ways. You can tuck it in or leave it out thanks to its slightly longer length, which creates a soft, relaxed shape either way. It also works open over a tank as a light layer. Pair it with jeans for everyday wear, or dress it up with a skirt or trousers when you want something a little more put together.

Shoppers are loving the shirt’s easy, summery style. “Super stylish shirt. Material is soft and comfortable,” one Amazon reviewer shared. Another added that it “looks cute with all kinds of outfits.” A third shopper highlighted the fabric, noting, “The fabric is soft and flowy. It’s perfect to wear buttoned, or layer and leave open.” 

Shop More Deals

Related: Walmart's $3 Cotton-Linen T-Shirt Is 'Super Comfy,' Breezy, and Perfect for Summer

Easy to wear and easy to style, the Akefun Women's Linen Shirt is a cool, comfortable addition to any summer wardrobe for just $20. If you've been looking for a shirt you can wear all season long, now's a great time to grab one while the discount lasts. 

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Old Navy's $18 Men's Staple Is a 'Loose and Comfortable' Summer Fit

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 10:30am

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With summer nearly here, it's officially time to shed those heavy layers for something lighter and more breathable. And while a good pair of slacks and a stylish blazer will definitely have their time and place this season, nothing beats feeling the breeze on your skin thanks to a reliable pair of shorts or your favorite T-shirt.

This week, Old Navy is giving shoppers a chance to save a few bucks by slashing prices on a wide range of classic summer staples. Our favorite pick of the season? The 90's Loose Shorts, currently retailing for $18.49, are a perfect roomy casual wardrobe essential you'll want to reach for all summer long.

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90's Loose Shorts, $18.49 at Old Navy

Old Navy

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Taking it back to an era we simply can't leave behind, Old Navy's 90's Loose Shorts are an excellent example of how retro styles can blend seamlessly with modern trends. Normally priced at $36.99, this everyday pair is already a great value, but with a 50 percent discount attached, it's more tempting than ever to stock up on every color.

Speaking of colors, you can currently choose from classic hues like In The Navy, Dill Caper and Wish Bone, all available in seven- and eight-inch inseams and sizes XS–XXXXL both in-store and online. Finished with classic details like a button front with belt loops, a zipper fly, front utility pockets and back patch pockets, everything about these shorts feels stylish and minimalist with just a dash of '90s edge.

Related: Aldi's Breathable $10 Men's Staple Is a Perfect Fit for Summer

Not too baggy but far from slim-fitting, each pair is made from 100 percent cotton herringbone fabric for a comfortable, breathable feel that's perfect for hot summer days. They're also super easy to care for, machine washable and safe to tumble dry on low. Versatile enough for everything from backyard barbecues to more elevated summer outings, these shorts deserve a spot in just about any summer rotation.

Old Navy

"The '90s are back," one shopper raved in a review, calling the shorts "loose and comfortable."

"I bought them for my hubby," another chimed in. "They fit well, look great and the fabric is perfect for summer."

Others echoed the sentiment, with one fan calling them a "must-have" and another praising their "great fit," saying they're "worth every penny."

If you're eyeing one of the available colors, don't wait; this sale won't last long. And if you've got a few extra bucks to spend, why not snag multiple colors and elevate your weekly rotation even further? While you're at it, don't miss out on Old Navy's Classic Crew-Neck T-Shirt and V-Neck T-Shirt either, both of which pair perfectly with your new 90's Loose Shorts.

Related: Old Navy's Classic $6 Men's Staple Is the 'Perfect' Fit for Summer

Popular Fast-Casual Mexican Food Chain Launches Summer Perks With New Menu Items

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 10:30am

Summer is about to get a little more rewarding for fans of QDOBA Mexican Eats.

The fast-casual restaurant chain announced the launch of Summer Rewards on Q, a new seasonal promotion designed to give loyalty members access to personalized deals, surprise perks and limited-time offers throughout the summer.

Beginning June 15, members of QDOBA's rewards program can receive customized weekly offers based on their activity, turning each order into an opportunity to unlock a new reward the following week.

The offers will vary by customer and may include perks such as free double protein, discounts ranging from $2 to $5 off an entrée, bonus rewards points and even 50% off select orders.

In addition to personalized offers, QDOBA says it will also release national rewards drops available to all rewards members during the summer.

The promotion arrives alongside two new limited-time menu items set to debut on June 16.

First up are Churro Chips, a sweet snack inspired by traditional Mexican desserts such as churros and buñuelos. The new treat features freshly fried in-house chips coated in cinnamon sugar and served warm.

QDOBA

QDOBA is also introducing Spicy Tequila Lime Steak, a new protein option featuring flame-grilled steak finished with a bold sauce made with Cholula Original Hot Sauce and zesty tequila lime seasoning.

QDOBA

The additions give guests a new way to customize bowls, burritos, tacos and other menu favorites during the summer promotion.

The new rewards program launches June 15, while both limited-time menu items will be available beginning June 16 at participating QDOBA locations for a limited time.

Related: Sweetgreen Debuts First-of-Its-Kind Salad Perfect for Summer

Is DoorDash Down? Users Report Issues Tuesday Morning

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 10:27am

DoorDash is experiencing some issues on Tuesday, June 16, with more than 36,000 users reporting outages throughout the morning, according to Downdetector.

They added that 73% of the issues came from the mobile app, with the majority being reported in New York, Chicago, Detroit, Dallas, and Los Angeles.

The platform addressed the issues in a post at 10:14 a.m. ET on X.

"We’re aware of an issue affecting our platform and are working urgently to resolve it. We thank our users for their patience and understanding, and apologize for any inconvenience," DoorDash Help wrote.

Many comments were left under the post from people waiting for their orders, as well as delivery drivers whose work has been affected by this.

"Gonna need you to complete my active delivery and remove any lateness ratings as it is your fault not mine," one person wrote.

"Will I get paid for the order I dropped off. (Because) I met the person at the door, but couldn't mark order complete," another person commented.

"I’m supposed to start my dash in 20 minutes and now the app is down. I can’t even work. I’m a college student, this is my means of money. It’s worse cause my card is locked and I needed to get gas before I started," someone said.

"So, I’m waiting on an order…Any updates or who should I call? Been on hold for customer service 35 minutes and counting," one person shared.

"Now, it’s reflecting that my order was delivered at 11:07 & it was not. I’ve got cameras installed at the door & nothing. I’ve reordered food through Uber Eats & will be looking for a full refund to my card. Additionally, my plan is to cancel my monthly sub - too many probs!," another person expressed.

"Yall are messing up the morning vibe with this one," someone posted.

However, a few comments suggested that the app was back up and working for some individuals.

4 Crunchy Costco Snack Finds That Are Perfect for Summer — and They're All Under $10

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 10:26am

Summer is prime snacking season. Between road trips, pool days, beach outings, and kids who somehow seem hungry every 20 minutes, it helps to have a few good options in the pantry.

Costco has no shortage of snacks, but these four crunchy finds all have one thing in common: they're priced under $10 and come in generous, shareable packages. Whether you're craving something sweet, salty, or a little of both, these are worth a look on your next warehouse run.

You can check them out in this June 14 TikTok from @costcofinds4u:

@costcofinds4u

Costco Finds June 14, 2026 #costco #costconew #costcotiktok #costcodeals #costcofinds

♬ Dance You Outta My Head - Cat Janice

Healthy Crunch Fruit & Seed Mix with Chocolate, Cherry, Banana & Sunflower Seeds ($9.99)

If you're looking for something a little more wholesome, Healthy Crunch Fruit & Seed Mix offers a blend of dried cherries, bananas, sunflower seeds, and chocolate that's peanut-free and lower in sugar. At 26 ounces for $9.99, it's easy to toss into a beach bag, lunch box, or road trip cooler for a quick snack between meals.

It also looks like it would work well sprinkled over yogurt for a quick, filling breakfast.

Pong Pong Sea Salt Cannon Popped Corn ($7.99)

If you're in the mood to try something different, Costco's Pong Pong Sea Salt Cannon Popped Corn brings a popular Korean snack to warehouse shelves. The 19-ounce bag offers a light, crunchy texture with sea salt, making it an easy option for movie nights, road trips, or afternoon snacking.

Related: Costco's New Sweet Find Might Be the Treat You've Been Missing

Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps Fireworks Berry Cream ($8.49)

Summer snacks don't have to be boring. Snack Factory's Fireworks Berry Cream Pretzel Crisps combine the familiar crunch of pretzels with a sweet berry-inspired flavor that feels right at home during the warmer months. At $8.49 for a 20-ounce bag, they're a fun addition to cookouts, pool parties, and family gatherings.

Kirkland Signature Peanut Butter Pretzels ($9.89)

A Costco favorite for good reason, Kirkland Signature Peanut Butter Pretzels continue to earn a place in shoppers' carts. The 55-ounce container is packed with crunchy pretzel pillows filled with creamy peanut butter, offering a satisfying balance of salty and savory flavors for under $10.

Between summer road trips and football season just around the corner, this is one snack you'll likely find plenty of uses for.

Honorable Mention: Kirkland Signature Variety Snacking Nuts ($23.99)

While it doesn't fit the under $10 theme, Costco's Kirkland Signature Variety Snacking Nuts deserve a quick mention. The 21-pack includes individually portioned pistachios, cashews, and mixed nuts, making it a convenient option for lunch bags, road trips, and grab-and-go snacking throughout the summer.

Whether you're stocking up for vacation, filling the pantry before summer break, or simply looking for a few new snacks to try, these Costco finds prove you don't have to spend a fortune to keep snack time interesting.

‘Little House on the Prairie’ Star Reveals the One Michael Landon Rule That Helped Shape His Own TV Hit 20 Years Later

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 10:24am

Linwood Boomer opened up about his past as an actor on Little House on the Prairie—and how working with Michael Landon influenced his work as creator and showrunner of the hit sitcomMalcolm in the Middle two decades later.

During an appearance on The Joe Vulpis Podcast, Boomer, 70, was asked if he took any lessons or experiences from Little House on the Prairie when he created Malcolm in the Middle.

“Not so much to creating but the way the show ran,” the actor shared, before explaining how he treated the child stars on the Emmy-winning comedy series.

“Little kids should not be full-time employees," he said. "You know, they should not have adult kind of jobs and adult kind of responsibilities. And I think  it can be very harmful to a kid to be in that situation where they're supporting the family and they're sort of the authority figure or power figure in a family and they're like nine, you know, they're not equipped to handle it.”

Boomer added that on the Malcolm set, he did everything he could to let the young actors on the show be kids. “We're not going to call their agents if they show up five minutes late because they were busy playing,” he shared. “We're not going to give them lectures about what they need to do. We're not going to tell the teachers that they have to delay school a little bit and keep it quiet because, you know, we need to get this shot in.”

The actor and producer reiterated that he followed all of the rules about child labor laws to the letter, then noted that Landon was the same way on the Little House set, which also featured a large cast of child actors.

“I think that has always been like a thing that I carry because I saw Michael was really good about that with the kids,” he said. “And the hours were set up so that the kids could be kids. And he ran the show, he had it organized enough that those situations where we're not going to get a shot with the kid because the kid says he has to go home and we, you know, wasted time on this other thing and now we're going to ask the kid to, you know, waive his rights. That never happened because it was sort of like, we have to get this organized in a way to make sure we get our stuff on time, and we're not, you know, even tempted to ask the kids or their parents to bend the rules a little bit. Which worked out.”

RELATED: ‘Little House on the Prairie’ Star Had Michael Landon in Stitches During Audition

Boomer joined the cast of Little House on the Prairie in 1978, playing Adam Kendall, a teacher at a school for the blind who wed Mary Ingalls (Melissa Sue Anderson). The actor appeared in 35 episodes of the NBC historical drama through 1981. Boomer went on to create and produce Malcolm in the Middle, which aired for seven seasons, from 2000 to 2006, on Fox.

In April, Boomer told Collider he was “all for” the upcoming Little House on the Prairie reboot, based on the Laura Ingalls Wilder book series, which is set to premiere on Netflix in July.

“I know the world of it is completely different. It's much closer to the books,”  he said. “Michael Landon just had that thing of that family and then just ran with it. It was a great thing for what it was, but it wasn't what the books were, which was a little bit grimmer of a life. To me, I think it's much more appropriate now because I think people understand that vocabulary, that things can sort of be grim and really tough, and you can still have that loving family in that situation, and it still works."

Related: Michael Landon Predicted ‘Little House on the Prairie’ Would Still Be Watched 50 Years Later

Iconic '70s Rock Band's New Album Is Climbing the Charts Days After Its Release

Tue, 06/16/2026 - 10:24am

Pink Floyd's newest release is already making its mark on the charts.

The band's compilation album 8-Tracks, which arrived on June 5, has debuted at No. 19 on Billboard's Top Rock Albums chart, No. 22 on the Top Rock & Alternative Albums chart, and No. 86 on the Billboard 200. The collection becomes the latest charting release in one of rock's most successful catalogs and marks the 32nd Pink Floyd album to chart in the United States.

While 8-Tracks includes many of the songs casual listeners would expect from a Pink Floyd collection, the album offers something longtime fans have been talking about since it was announced in April.

The eight-song set spans the band's celebrated 1971 to 1979 period, featuring classics such as "Money," "Wish You Were Here," "Time," "Comfortably Numb," and "Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2." It also includes deeper cuts like "One of These Days" and "Wot's… Uh the Deal?" from the band's early 1970s albums.

But the biggest draw may be the album's closing track.

8-Tracks features the full version of "Pigs on the Wing," a rarity that was previously available only on the 8-track cartridge edition of 1977's Animals. For decades, the extended version was largely a collector's item known mainly to dedicated fans. The new release presents the track as part of a continuous listening experience edited by Steven Wilson using sound effects sourced from the original multitrack recordings, according to AXS TV.

When announcing the project, Pink Floyd described 8-Tracks as a celebration of the band's breakthrough era, drawing material from Meddle, Obscured by Clouds, The Dark Side of the Moon, Wish You Were Here, Animals, and The Wall. The collection was designed both as an introduction for newer listeners and as a curated release for longtime fans.

Fans on social media and Reddit have largely embraced the concept. One listener praised the way the songs flow together while still functioning as standalone tracks, highlighting the transition between "Time" and "Comfortably Numb" and noting that the compilation gives listeners easier access to several alternate versions and edits.

The strong chart debut continues a remarkable stretch for Pink Floyd. Over the past year, the band's 50th anniversary edition of Wish You Were Here returned to charts around the world, while Pink Floyd at Pompeii – MCMLXXII enjoyed a successful theatrical re-release and soundtrack album launch.

Nearly six decades after the band's formation, Pink Floyd continues to prove that even a compilation built around familiar classics can still find an audience, especially when it contains a long-lost piece of Floyd history.

Related: Pink Floyd’s Only Grammy Winner Was Played Live Just Twice Ever

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