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The Traitors: New Blood has arrived! Throughout the season, Mike Bloom will speak with someone from the star-studded cast who was murdered or banished on the iconic Emmy-winning reality series.

Xavier Scruggs is used to having all eyes on him, considering the number of years he spent in the MLB as both a player and an analyst. But he faced a brand-new spotlight under the harsh moonlight above a Scottish loch. The first night of the game, he and Katie Fites were recruited out of the Faithful AAA and up to the major leagues, auditioning for the role of all-out Traitor. Seeing an opportunity, he immediately went on offense, drawing suspicion onto his competitor in the hopes that she would be less appealing as a public target. What he thought was a bunt, however, turned into a pop fly. Joe Vanella and Tomica Adams were put on edge by Xavier’s actions, feeling it was a precursor to possible Traitor-on-Traitor violence. And so, when given the choice between the two accomplices, they chose to recruit Katie, striking Xavier out of the game.

Now out of the game, Xavier talks with Parade about his reaction to not being picked as a Traitor, why he threw Katie under the bus immediately, and who he was looking to go after if he was recruited.

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So how surprised were you when Joe and Tomica chose to recruit Katie instead of you as a Traitor?
100% I was surprised in the moment. Just because I felt like if there was someone that could help them work together as a team and didn’t feel like my name was out there at all, I felt like it would have been a good three, all of us together. And I also felt like I had a good relationship with both Joe and Tomica, more so Joe than Tomica. But at the same time, Tomica mentioned I was good for the eye, so I felt like we had a connection there just naturally in the castle. So I felt competitive at the time, like, “Okay, I should win this. I should be in the turret with them.” But obviously, that’s not how it played out.

When you found out you were an accomplice, you immediately decided to start throwing Katie under the bus, in the hopes that she would not be an appealing choice. Talk to me more about this strategy, and your reaction to Joe and Tomica feeling sketched out by it.
I think I went in knowing that if I spoke Katie’s name, that there was a possibility that it could get to a Traitor. And so my reasoning behind it was, “Okay, the Traitors would want to see us do whatever we need to do to make sure that we are the one that wins.” Not necessarily almost working together in a sense, because I felt like I’m at a 50/50 chance. What can I do to give myself a little bit more of a chance? That would be to banish Katie if I have that opportunity and do it. Not loudly, but just putting the name out slowly. So I felt like I was trying to play offense, but also that the Traitors would want to see characteristics of another accomplice doing whatever it takes to get the final spot in the turret.

Looking back, I’m reminded that my thought process is not going to be the same as the Traitors, and you’re obviously second-guessing every single thought, and you don’t know who the Traitors are in the moment, so you don’t have an inkling as to what their thought process might be. So if I know it’s Tomica, I may have decided to say, “Hey, let me think differently about this.” But yeah, I was going in playing offense immediately and trying to figure out if there’s another way besides me just going through the tests. Let’s see if we’re able to get Katie banished without doing a whole lot.

The first Roundtable was edited to make it look like you were going to say something before Kriste jumped in with her theory on Madeline. Were you going to use that time to throw Katie under the bus if you weren’t interrupted?
No, I wasn’t. I was actually going to bring up something with Victor or Madeline. It wasn’t the right time to use Katie’s name, especially when there was so much conversation around other things. I was just, in that moment, going to say something else, but I wasn’t going to say anything about Katie. I had already felt that the time was done for me to be able to talk about Katie. Whatever I had, whatever conversations I had had, and whatever I had spoken about was already laid out there. And that there would be no more talk about Katie unless it was brought up by somebody else.

Did you go into the show wanting to be a Traitor? What was your reaction when you were told you were an accomplice?
Yeah, I went into the show wanting to be a Traitor. In the beginning, I felt like the opportunity to be a Traitor would allow me to have some of that control that some of the Faithfuls don’t have. But also, I felt like my strategy in the turret could have complemented the opportunity to win the game and to win the cash prize. When I was told that I was an accomplice, I was elated. At first, I’m a little crushed knowing that I’m a Faithful. I try to switch my mind immediately to say, “Okay, we’re playing as a Faithful.” But then when Alan says there has to be another one picked, I’m still holding back in my mind that there’s an opportunity. So once I find out that opportunity is me, I’m juiced. I’m ready to go. I’m ready to fight for it. I’m excited about the opportunity, and I’m in compete mode to be a Traitor.

Who was on your Traitor suspect list by the time you left the game? Were Joe and Tomica on your radar?
Yeah, Joe was somebody that was so boisterous early on. I thought he could have been a good Traitor. Honestly, I did have him kind of in the back of my head. It’s still early on in the game, so it’s like not everybody has high percentages in your dome. Victor was somebody that I thought could have been a Traitor as well. That’s actually one of the reasons why I did not vote for Victor at the first Roundtable and I voted for Madeline. Because, as an accomplice, I didn’t want to be seen voting for a Traitor, and that could backfire on me. And actually, I think about Tomica. That was one of the people I had no idea. I thought she had played it smooth early on, and I did not know Tomica was one. But those would be that Joe and Victor were kind of my early suspects, but not at a high percentage.

One of the reasons Joe and Tomica kept Katie is because they felt she was more connected to the younger players in the game. Who were you closest with by the time you left the castle?
I felt like I was connected to a lot of different people. Honestly, I was connected with the younger group too. It’s actually a conversation that maybe I wish I had heard Joe and Tomica have in front of me. Because I felt connected to Katie, Mark, Arisa, Madeline, some of the younger group that was there. Including Logan, somebody that had kind of been seen a lot by himself, I connected with him early on too. So a lot of the people that I felt like they were trying to get connected to and learn more from, I had already had some of those conversations, those early relationship-building processes.

Let’s say you had stayed and become a Traitor. Who were you looking to target next?
I had thought about this a little bit. Since there was some heat already on Victor, it might have been Victor. And then I’m also looking at somebody that’s really under the radar where it had no consequence, like nobody would even think about that person. And I had kind of thought about Michael in a sense because he was obviously a strong Faithful too. Just being someone that came out with a lot of good communication, and you could tell that he was gonna figure out whatever as a lawyer to really get into what’s going on in the turret.

Of course, you’re used to being in the spotlight as an MLB player and analyst. But how different was it to compete on a reality show compared to your day-to-day?
I think that’s the challenge. I wanted to get outside of my normal everyday baseball sports bubble and do some different things that put me in uncomfortable situations, but also brought out a different side of me, a different personality. Something different that people get to see that people don’t get to see on a day-to-day basis, and do it in Scotland! Why not do it in the area I had never been to, a beautiful spot? That’s something that I felt like I could also use to my advantage with my background in sports and being competitive, and now communicating as an analyst. I thought all roads led to me being on The Traitors.

Would you want to do any other reality shows now that you’ve made your unscripted debut?
Oh yeah, I would love to! I’m already smelling Destination X, which sounds like a great show. I’ve been a big fan of Million Dollar Secret on Netflix as well. That’s one that I really like. Well-shot and produced. That’s another thing too. The production of The Traitors is something that I was always attracted to. One of the best, highly produced shows that shot like a movie in reality. Those are the types of shows that I’m interested in.

Related: ‘The Traitors: New Blood’ Star Madeline Kostopulos Says Chemistry With Victor Was ‘Definitely Mutual’ — And Reveals Where They Stand Today (Exclusive)

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A pest control service slip can leave homeowners with more questions than answers: What chemical was used? Is it safe around children and pets? How long should you stay away from a treated area?

The Safety Data Sheet, or SDS, provides much of that information. It identifies the product, lists hazards and ingredients, and explains precautions, first aid and exposure controls. But an SDS is not the same thing as a pesticide label. Knowing the difference makes these documents much easier to understand.

If you have questions about a treatment in your home, ask your Orkin exterminator for the product name, active ingredient and applicable safety information before the next application.

What Chemicals Do Exterminators Use in Homes?

Exterminators use different pesticides depending on the pest, treatment site and product label. Common household pest-control products include insecticides, baits and other formulations containing active ingredients designed to kill, repel or control specific pests. The product may be applied as a liquid, dust, aerosol, bait or another formulation.

There is no single chemical that every exterminator uses. A professional may select different products for ants, cockroaches, termites, bed bugs or other pests. Orkin says its pest specialists develop treatment plans based on the situation, and its materials describe both chemical and nonchemical approaches to pest management.

Related: Hidden Exterminator Costs: What’s Included in Your Initial Service Quote?

Start With the Product Name

The first question to answer is what product was used?

Look for the product identifier in Section 1 of the SDS. OSHA’s standardized SDS format requires Section 1 to identify the product, manufacturer or responsible party, recommended use and restrictions on use.

Write down the exact product name. That gives you a starting point for finding the corresponding pesticide label and EPA registration information.

What Should You Look for on an SDS?

An SDS contains 16 standardized sections covering everything from chemical identification and hazards to first aid, handling and toxicological information. Sections 2, 3, 4, 7, 8 and 11 usually provide the most useful information for understanding a household treatment.

SDS Section

What It Tells You

1. Identification

Product name, manufacturer, intended use and emergency contact

2. Hazard Identification

Classified hazards, signal words and precautionary information

3. Composition

Ingredients and applicable concentration information

4. First Aid

Steps to take after an exposure

7. Handling and Storage

Safe handling and storage precautions

8. Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

Exposure limits and recommended protective equipment

11. Toxicological Information

Health effects and routes of exposure

16. Other Information

Additional information and revision date

The remaining sections cover subjects such as accidental releases, fire response, physical properties, stability, ecological effects, disposal and transportation.

How Do You Identify the Active Ingredient?

Section 3 is where you can begin determining what chemicals are actually in the product.

The EPA defines an active ingredient as a substance that prevents, destroys, repels or mitigates a pest. Pesticide products also contain other ingredients, which federal law calls “inert ingredients.” Despite the name, the EPA says “inert” does not mean nontoxic.

The pesticide label is particularly useful here. The EPA requires the names and percentages by weight of active ingredients to appear on pesticide product labels.

This distinction is useful when someone asks, “What chemical did my exterminator spray?” The answer should identify the product and active ingredient, rather than treating every ingredient in the formulation as the pesticide’s primary pest-killing chemical.

Does an SDS Tell You How Toxic a Pesticide Is?

Not in the simple tiered way many homeowners expect. The EPA assigns pesticide products Toxicity Categories I through IV based on acute toxicity data, while the pesticide label uses signal words to communicate the applicable hazard.

For registered pesticides, the EPA’s labeling system associates:

EPA Toxicity Category

Signal Word

Category I

Danger

Category II

Warning

Category III

Caution

Category IV

Generally no signal word required

Some Category I products also carry “Poison” and the skull-and-crossbones symbol when the classification is based on certain acute toxicity tests.

Do not interpret these categories as a complete measure of household risk. The EPA explains that pesticide toxicity categories are based on effects from particular exposure routes, while the product’s label also specifies precautions, protective equipment and permitted uses.

Which SDS Sections Explain Exposure Precautions?

For homeowners concerned about exposure, Sections 4, 7 and 8 deserve particular attention.

Section 4 describes first-aid measures following exposure. Section 7 covers handling and storage. Section 8 addresses exposure controls and personal protective equipment.

The information may include precautions involving skin contact, eye exposure or inhalation. It can also identify protective equipment used by workers during application.

That information should not be used to create your own reentry rules, however. Follow the pesticide product label and the instructions provided by the pest management professional.

The EPA says pesticide labels contain the legally enforceable directions for how, where, how much and how often a product may be used.

Related: DIY vs. Professional Flea Control: Eradicating Deep-Carpet Infestations

Why Is the Pesticide Label Important?

The SDS and pesticide label serve different purposes. The SDS follows OSHA’s standardized hazard-communication format, while the pesticide label provides legally enforceable instructions governing the product’s use.

That makes the label especially important for questions such as:

• How should the product be applied?
• Where can it be used?
• What precautions apply?
• How much product can be used?
• What restrictions apply to people, pets or treated surfaces?

If the service report gives you only a product name, ask the exterminator for the corresponding pesticide label and SDS.

Schedule a free quote and inspection with Orkin to discuss your home’s pest-control needs. Take the first step toward a safer, pest-free home today.

What Does Orkin Say About Chemical Pest Control?

Orkin describes pest management as more than simply applying pesticides. Its materials on Integrated Pest Management emphasize identifying and monitoring pests and using nonchemical methods before chemical control when appropriate.

Orkin entomologist Dr. Ron Harrison has also described service documentation as including pesticide usage information and safety data sheets in professional pest-management programs.

Orkin’s consumer information says household insect pesticides are generally formulated at low concentrations and that its Pest Specialists follow product label directions.

Those statements do not mean every pesticide or treatment has the same hazard profile. The specific product, application method, exposure route and label instructions determine the relevant precautions.

When Should You Ask Your Exterminator for the SDS?

Ask for the SDS when you want to understand a specific product used inside or around your home, especially if the service paperwork does not identify the product clearly.

A useful record should include the product name, date of application, treatment location and active ingredient when available. Keep the SDS with your pest-control paperwork so you can find it if a physician, veterinarian or emergency responder needs product information after an exposure.

You can also use the EPA’s pesticide databases to look up active ingredients and registered product labels by product name, company or chemical name.

Get Clear Answers About Your Home’s Pest Treatment

An SDS is easier to read when you know what to look for. Start with the product name, then review its hazards, composition, first-aid instructions, handling precautions, exposure controls and toxicological information. Use the pesticide label for the legally enforceable directions governing application and use.

If you are dealing with recurring pests or are unsure what treatment your home needs, a professional inspection can identify the pest and determine whether chemical treatment is appropriate.

Protect your home with a tailored treatment plan designed around safety and effectiveness. Schedule a free quote and inspection with Orkin to discuss your home’s pest-control needs.

This article was drafted with the assistance of AI and thoroughly reviewed, edited, and fact-checked by Parade editors. See our complete AI Policy.

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If your bathroom is more “cozy corner” than “palatial spa,” you know the struggle. Every day adds more stress with cluttered countertops, nowhere to stash extra towels, and the eternal mystery of where to keep those backup bottles of shampoo. 

The Hiphuta 71-Inch Tall Narrow Bathroom Storage Cabinet is a game-changing piece from Walmart, winning over small-space dwellers and design lovers alike. At just $116 in white or country blue, this slim tower is redefining what it means to be both practical and stylish in the bathroom.

Hiphuta 71-Inch Tall Narrow Bathroom Storage Cabinet, From $116 (was $140) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

At just under 16 inches wide, this tall, narrow cabinet is a masterclass in maximizing unused corners or tight spots. Think behind the bathroom door or wedged beside the tub. The clean white finish looks fresh and modern, blending seamlessly with any color scheme, while the elevated silhouette brings a touch of spa-like calm to even the tiniest powder room.

Hiphuta 71-Inch Tall Narrow Bathroom Storage Cabinet, From $116 (was $140) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Storage gets a major upgrade thanks to six hidden shelves and adjustable door shelves. You can finally corral everyday clutter such as toiletries, towels, medicine, and beauty essentials without turning your bathroom into a game of countertop Jenga. Shelves adjust to fit tall bottles or stacks of linen, and the clever door design lets you choose whether they open to the left or right, customizing the setup for your unique space.

Practicality has not taken a back seat to style. The cabinet is crafted from durable, moisture-proof particleboard, so it stands up to steamy showers, splashes, and the occasional toothpaste mishap. Each shelf holds up to 25 pounds, making it sturdy enough for everything from spare toilet paper to a hefty stack of guest towels. The included anti-tip device gives you peace of mind, even in busy households. 

Do not let the bathroom label fool you! This tower is a storage chameleon. You can also use it as a linen closet, a kitchen pantry, or even a sleek laundry-room organizer. Easy assembly and clear instructions take the stress out of setup, so you can get back to enjoying your clutter-free sanctuary in no time.

“The cabinet is very stylish, sturdy, and has a lot of space for storage,” one shopper said. “It holds a lot of towels and extra supplies.”

“Great cabinet,” another shopper stated. “Sturdy and relatively easy to assemble. I absolutely love this cabinet in my bathroom. Good storage and looks beautiful.”

Shop More Walmart Home Deals

• Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, $54 at Walmart
• Virtu 7-Piece Seersucker Queen Comforter Set, From $40 (was $52) at Walmart
• Way To Celebrate Light-Up Pumpkin Decoration, $6 at Walmart

Related: Bring Cottagecore Charm to Any Bedroom With Walmart’s 10-Piece Monochromatic Sunflower Comforter Set

Chic, functional, and surprisingly affordable, the Hiphuta Bathroom Storage Cabinet proves that small spaces can have big style. If you are ready to upgrade your organization game, this is the piece your bathroom and beyond have been waiting for.

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.

Randy Newman surprised many with his 1972 orchestral ballad with ties to history regarding the slave trade, and it became a music staple that many artists tried their hand at covering.

“Sail Away” was released on the singer’s album of the same name that had been regarded by outlets as one of the “Greatest Albums of All Time” that had a profound affect on listeners. The track itself was even ranked at No. 275 on Rolling Stone’s list of the best songs of all time, despite never having entered the charts.

What captured attention about the pop ballad were its lyrics and arrangement, with what many called an “unusual” backstory behind it. Newman created “Sail Away” to tell the story of “the American dream of a promised land as it might have been presented to black Africa in slave running days.”

The track doesn’t explicitly mention slavery, but lines like “We will cross the mighty ocean into Charleston Bay” was a clear indicator. Charleston Bay in South California was historically known as where a majority of the slave trade took place. Some even categorize the track as dark and satirical, with it not meant to be seen as a joyful song.

“I wrote about slave trade from the view of the recruiter from the slave trade. He is talking, you know, come to America and then talks about using that and I didn’t another way to do it. I mean, you could say the slave trade is bad, horrendous or a great crime of the nation, but I chose to do differently,” said Newman to NPR, according to SongFacts.

In 2017, Newman told Rolling Stone about how the idea for the “Sail Away” first occurred. He recalls Leslie Caron‘s husband, who was a producer, wanting to make a movie. He planned to give him and people like Van Morrison and Jimi Hendrix 10 minutes to do whatever they wanted. The film never got made, but Newman already had an idea in mind.

“But I had this idea of a slave ship and a sea shanty – this guy standing in a clearing, singing to a crowd of natives. These people in my songs don’t know they’re bad. They think they’re fine. I didn’t just want to say, ‘Slavery is awful.’ It’s too easy. I wasn’t doing Roots,” he said.

The pop ballad ended up being covered by many artists from Ray Charles, Etta James, Linda Ronstadt, Harry Nilson, and Gladys Knight for her first solo album. In 1973, singer Bobby Darin also recorded the track.

Newman commented that Darin was one of the artists who misinterpreted his song and recorded an upbeat version. He commented that “Bobby Darin could sing, but he did ‘Sail Away,’ and, well… I don’t think he understood it. He did it like it was a happy song about coming to America.”

“Sail Away” was one of Darin’s last recorded songs, as he died that year during open-heart surgery. He had failed to take antibiotics to protect his heart before a dental visit, resulting in a systemic infection that affected one of his heart valves. He died at 37 years old shortly after the surgery.

Related: 1968 No.1 Hit, Written by Robin Gibb About Death Row, Is Still a Soft Rock Classic 58 Years Later

The music community is mourning a key figure behind one of the 1970s’ most iconic pop groups, the Bay City Rollers.

Former guitarist Neil Henderson, who performed on the Scottish group’s breakout 1971 debut hit single “Keep On Dancing,” has died at age 73.

The Bay City Rollers would go on to achieve worldwide success with hits like “Saturday Night,” “Bye Bye Baby,” and “Shang-a-lang.” But the group’s rise to fame began in 1971.

Featuring Henderson’s distinct guitar work, “Keep On Dancing” was the group’s first taste of chart success, climbing to No. 9 on the UK Singles Chart. The musician departed the group just before the band underwent the crucial lineup changes that sparked absolute fan pandemonium.

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Henderson’s exit came before the group struck gold with their 1974 inaugural record, Rollin’. That smash-hit LP skyrocketed straight to No. 1 in the UK, holding a relentless grip on the charts for over a year and officially launching the band into pop music royalty.

With Les McKeown joining bandmates Eric Faulkner, Stuart “Woody” Wood, Alan Longmuir, and Derek Longmuir, the group formed the definitive five-member roster that conquered the world. Dressed head-to-toe in their trademark tartan outfits, the teen idols dominated television, radio, and magazine covers, creating a frantic fan frenzy on both sides of the Atlantic that defined an entire era of popular culture.

After leaving the Rollers, Henderson joined the band Middle Of The Road. It was his former bandmates who announced the musician’s passing via Facebook, paying tribute to his musical legacy.

They wrote: “We are sorry to have to announce the death of Neil Henderson, our original lead guitarist, songwriter and friend. Neil had been ill for some time and was fighting to recover from a stroke a few years ago.”

The post continued, “We wish to send our sincere condolences to Heather and Shona, his two daughters, and all his family and friends. His memory will live on with all who had the pleasure of sharing the stage with him as will his music.”

The Irish Independent shared Middle Of The Road hit No. 1 with their song, “Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep.”

Related: 1976 Bay City Rollers Hit Predicted the End of Their Reign as Pop Music Superstars

Although walking backward might sound unnatural, “retro walking” is trending on social media—and it seems to offer extraordinary benefits for your overall health. Although it appears to be the “new kid on the block,” this fitness habit dates back centuries to ancient China, and exercise enthusiasts are adding it to their routines to improve balance, strength, coordination and their overall well-being. But what’s so different about walking backward versus walking in a forward motion? 

Retro walking is a trending form of low-impact cardio due to its plethora of benefits—especially for knee and joint health. Research indicates that backward walking yields significantly better health outcomes than forward walking. In addition to reducing joint stress in runners, backward walking places greater neuromuscular demands on the body compared to forward walking because it involves shorter stride length and higher cadence. Needless to say, retro walking is more than just another TikTok fad.

We know these backward walking benefits sound amazing, but before you jump into this form of exercise, it’s always wise to check in with your healthcare provider and, if necessary, consult a physical therapist or certified personal trainer for tips. Reversing your walking direction is something to introduce gradually, since walking backward requires concentration and coordination. But once you get the hang of it, backward walking can be an exciting way to spruce up your workout routine, build muscle and reduce stress on the knees.

To learn more about why people are walking backward for their knees, we spoke with a physical therapist who spills the tea.

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What Is Retro Walking and Why Is It Trending?

According to Dr. Milica McDowell, DPT, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, USA Today bestselling author and healthcare leader, retro walking is simply a fancy clinical name for backward walking, which has been used as a form of training in the physical therapy world for 50+ years.

“It’s always been a way to change up the load that people are experiencing in their knee, helping them activate their posterior chain muscles that help support their lower body, and create what’s called novel stimuli to make the workouts more interesting,” explains Dr. McDowell.

Related: ‘I’m a Pilates Instructor—This Is the Best Move To Help With Stiff, Tight Hips’

The Biomechanics: How Backward Walking Relieves Knee Pain

Research analyzing the movement patterns in retro walking shows how advantageous it is compared to forward walking, making it an ideal exercise for those dealing with knee pain.

“[Retro walking] has also been shown to put less compression force on the kneecap, which can be a source of knee pain in many individuals,” Dr. McDowell tells Parade. “Walking backward makes you slow down and be more methodical; it allows greater muscle activity and boosts your postural awareness while you’re walking. All of these can combine to better presence while walking and help to reduce pain and help people focus on improving their body mechanics during this drill.”

Because retro walking doesn’t require the classic heel strike movement that forward walking does, there’s less stress placed on the kneecap and less compression at the knee joint. But don’t be fooled—the quads are still working hard! As you take a step backward, you move through what’s called “terminal knee extension,” which is the final portion of straightening the knee when it transitions from a slightly bent state to straight. This further fires up the quads.

“This is oftentimes why backwards walking can be very effective for those who have knee pain because they are feeling less shock and compression at the joint during the activity,” Dr. McDowell says.

Remember that your lower body isn’t the only thing getting a workout—your mind is, too. Your brain is working with each step you take, requiring you to stay focused and pay attention to your movements.

Related: Fitness Instructors Say This Is One of the Most Overlooked Exercises for Stronger Legs

Does It Help Knee Osteoarthritis and Runner’s Knee?

If you have knee osteoarthritis, backward walking may be a stellar choice to include in your workout regimen—and science backs this up. One study noted that retro walking can be an effective method in reducing symptoms related to knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and strengthening the quads in those with KOA. The same study suggested that backward running can alter the way forces are placed on the knees, helping to alleviate compressive stresses at the patella-femoral joint (where your kneecap connects to the front of your thigh bone). This could reduce knee pain while boosting overall knee function.

When it comes to runner’s knee—which can cause pain at the front of the knee or surrounding the kneecap—Dr. McDowell says there’s much less data specifically investigating the impact of backward walking on this condition.

Related: ‘I’m a Personal Trainer—Here Are the 3 Best Couch Stretches To Relieve Aches and Pains’

How to Safely Start a Backward Walking Routine on a Treadmill

If you’re eager to get started, we have you covered. According to Dr. McDowell, beginners should hold onto the treadmill’s handrails to help reduce the risk of falling and build confidence. 

Start by walking forward for five to 10 minutes before switching to walking backward for five minutes. Then, walk forward for another five to 10 minutes. As you progress, increase the amount of time spent retro walking, making your way up to 10 to 15 minutes, if possible.

When it comes to speed, Dr. McDowell recommends being at least 1 mph slower than your typical forward walking pace. Starting at 3 mph is appropriate for most. Do not use an incline.

Whether you’re looking to improve your knee health or spruce up your regular cardio workouts, backward walking serves as a wonderful training modality to consider. All you need is a good pair of walking shoes and a treadmill to kickstart your journey.

Up Next:

Sources:

• Ansari, B, Bhati, P, Singla, D, Nazish, N, & Hussain, M. E. (2018). Lumbar muscle activation pattern during forward and backward walking in participants with and without chronic low back pain: An electromyographic study. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 17(4), 217–225.
• Dr. Milica McDowell, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, USA Today bestselling author and healthcare leader
• Klemenov, A. V. (2021). Possibilities with backward walking for knee pathology (literature review). Genij Ortopedii, 27(1), 128–131.
• Almutairi, S. M, Almutairi, M, Alotaibi, M, Alshehri, M, & Alenazi, A. (2023). Effects of backward walking exercise using lower body positive pressure treadmill on knee symptoms and physical function in individuals with knee osteoarthritis: A protocol for RCT. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 18(1), 264.
• Johns Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee). Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Kate Middleton hosted a secret tea party at Windsor Castle last week, and today posted a video of the event to the Prince and Princess of Wales’ official Instagram account.

The tea party was to honor climbers she met when she undertook the Three Peaks Challenge back in June.

She was the first member of the royal family to complete the challenge, which sees adventurers scaling the highest peaks in England, Scotland, and Wales in order to raise funds for causes close to their hearts.

The future queen’s own undertaking of the challenge was to raise funds for the The Royal Marsden Hospital, where she underwent treatment for cancer in 2024.

In January 2025 it was announced that she was officially in remission.

At last week’s engagement Kate wore a belted dress whose deep plum shade is currently trending this season.

Among the adventurers she hosted at Windsor Castle was 11-year-old Ted Haslam, a wheelchair user who undertook the challenge in order to raise funds for Molly Ollys, a charity supports children with serious illnesses and their families.

After meeting the schoolboy on Ben Nevis—Scotland’s highest peak—Kate went on to make a personal donation to his cause.

In the post accompanying the video of her tea party Kate wrote, “It was a pleasure to welcome other Three Peaks Challenge participants and their families to Windsor Castle.

Related: Kate Middleton Brings Back a Rare Royal Heart-Shaped Jewel for Her Stunning Red Carpet Return

“Behind every summit was a personal story of resilience, determination and hope. Listening to their experiences of the challenge and their reasons for taking it on was a powerful reminder that recovery is rarely a journey we make alone, and of the importance of the people who walk alongside us along the way.”

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In a picture posted to Instagram in June Kate beams at the peak of Ben Nevis, dressed in rain gear and surrounded by fog.

The Princess of Wales wrote in the accompanying caption that she had undertaken the challenge in order to “explore life beyond diagnosis and to give something back.”

She wrote, “Every year, hundreds of thousands of people in this country hear the words no one wants to hear. What follows is a path that tests every part of who we are: physically, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually.”
 
She went on, “Cancer doesn’t just affect the body. It changes how you think and feel and profoundly affects every aspect of life. I know this personally, and that the journey through and beyond treatment requires more than medicine alone.”

Related: Kate Middleton Stunned in Emerald Dress and $192 Chunky Chain Necklace For Prince George’s First Day at Eton

An adorable picture of Prince William embracing his wife at the base of Mount Snowdon was later posted to the couple’s Instagram account, along with pictures of Kate with her three children Prince George (13), Princess Charlotte (11), and Prince Louis (7) after she completed the challenge in Wales.

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Kate looked every bit the mountaineer in a pair of red shorts by the North Face and matching red socks that she paired with brown hiking boots by Italian brand Scarpa.

Earlier this week Kate and William stepped out together for their first red carpet appearance at a movie premiere in four years.

They were guests of honor at the premiere of Tom Cruise‘s new movie Digger.

The Princess of Wales wore a romantic billowing gown in a vivd shade of purple, which she paired with a rarely seen 103-year-old jewel from the royal vaults.

She wore the Queen Mother’s Amethyst Sautoir, which is made up of long strands of pearls accented with amythests and diamonds and features a massive heart-shaped amethyst pendant.

Finishing off the look were Princess Diana‘s Collingwood pearl drop earrings.

Tom Cruise briefly broke royal protocol by taking Kate’s hand to assist her down the stairs at the premiere.

Usually it is against protocol to offer physical touch to a royal, but Kate courteously accepted the gesture, in a throwback to 2022 when Cruise similarly took her hand to escort her along the red carpet.

Next, Princess Diana’s Brother Reveals Queen Elizabeth’s Final Offer After Diana’s Death—and Why He Rejected It

Mary Hopkin’s “Those Were the Days” became one of 1968’s biggest songs, but the Welsh singer initially struggled to record it. She was only 18, and the song’s nostalgic lyrics called for a perspective she hadn’t yet experienced.

Just months earlier, Hopkin had been largely unknown outside Wales. She had been singing from a young age, but was initially hesitant to appear on the popular British talent show Opportunity Knocks. She eventually agreed to compete, won the show and suddenly found herself with a much bigger audience.

Twiggy, the British actress and model, was among those watching the competition. She knew The Beatles were preparing to launch their own record label and were looking for artists to sign, so she suggested Hopkin to Paul McCartney. 

McCartney was impressed by her voice and called Hopkin with an offer. The teenager told McCartney she would have to ask her mother first, and he agreed to wait. After signing with Apple Records, Hopkin headed to Abbey Road Studios, where McCartney produced her debut recording.

The song he wanted her to record was “Those Were the Days,” which McCartney had first heard several years earlier while it was being performed in a club by Gene Raskin. Raskin had written the English lyrics for a melody composed by Russian songwriter Boris Fomin in the 1920s. He had first tried pitching the song to several British Invasion acts before taking it to McCartney.

Hopkin, however, struggled with it from the start. The song looks back on youth from the perspective of someone older, while Hopkin was still a teenager. She couldn’t figure out how to give the lyrics the right feeling. 

The first day of recording ended without much progress. Hopkin went home, and later received a phone call from John Lennon, who gave her a pep talk and encouraged her to try again. When she returned to the studio the next day, she found the right approach and sang the vocal that became the heart of the recording.

“Those Were the Days” became a major success for Hopkin, reaching No. 1 in the U.K. and Canada and climbing charts around the world. In the U.S., it reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Ironically, The Beatles’ “Hey Jude” held the No. 1 spot ahead of Hopkin’s hit.

Related: ’60s Music Icon, Who Kept Her Alcoholism Secret, Says She ‘Lived in Terror of Not Being Perfect’

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Most people’s morning rituals begin with a cup of coffee, so why not start that simple step on the right foot? One easy way to do so is with a cute, cheerful mug that makes your morning brew feel a little more special. And if you enjoy an afternoon tea break, having a fun mug on hand can make that everyday ritual feel just as delightful.

If your everyday routines could use a dash of Dolly Parton cheer, you’ll want to check out Dolly Parton’s 4-Pack of Jeweled Mosaic Stackable Mugs. Priced at just $31 at Amazon, the set comes out to less than $8 per mug, and it includes a storage rack that makes keeping them organized easy.

Dolly Parton 4-Pack of Jeweled Mosaic Stackable Mugs, $31 (was $33) at Amazon 

Courtesy of Amazon

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Each mug features a different “wildflowers” design inspired by Dolly Parton’s iconic 1987 song. The eye-catching mosaic patterns bring plenty of sparkle and personality to your kitchen, while the slightly different designs give the set a coordinated look without making every mug feel exactly the same.

The mugs are made from porcelain, which gives them a sturdy feel and helps their colorful designs stay vibrant through regular use. They’re also microwave- and dishwasher-safe, so you can warm up your coffee or tea and clean them up easily when you’re finished.

Each mug holds 14 ounces, giving you plenty of room for a generous serving of coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or another favorite drink. At about 3.3 inches wide and 3.8 inches tall, they have a comfortable everyday size without taking up too much space.

The included metal rack is where the set really stands out from a typical four-pack of mugs. It neatly stacks the mugs vertically, helping save cabinet or countertop space while also putting the colorful designs on display. The rack measures about 14.8 inches tall, so it gives each mug its own spot while keeping the collection together.

One shopper described the mugs as “absolutely beautiful” and “eye-catching,” noting that the set “adds a lot of character” to their kitchen. They added, “They feel sturdy and well-made, and I like that they’re both microwave and dishwasher safe, which makes them practical for daily use despite their decorative look.” 

Another said the set is “charming, durable, and delightfully Dolly,” calling it a “go-to” for their morning coffee and afternoon tea. They shared, “The stackable design with the included metal countertop rack is brilliant — it saves space and keeps my mugs neatly organized, which is especially helpful in a smaller kitchen.”

Related: Dolly Parton’s Colorful Lazy Susan Brings ‘Beautiful’ Organization to Countertops

For a mug set you’ll genuinely want to reach for every day, Dolly Parton’s 4-Pack of Jeweled Mosaic Stackable Mugs is a fun choice. At $31 on Amazon, it’s an easy way to add classic Dolly charm, colorful personality, and a smart space-saving touch to your kitchen without spending a fortune.

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.

Understanding the color psychology of clothing can help you dress to project confidence, emotional resilience and even trust. Color psychology experts stress that we engage in so many nonverbal cues through clothing.

“Before you verbally communicate in any interaction, the visual impact of what you wear has already sent a signal to the people around you,” explains Michelle Lewis, a color psychology expert and certified color analyst, the founder of ColorAnalysis.com and The Color Institute and the author of Color Secrets: Learning The One Universal Language We Were Never Taught. “Color is processed by the brain faster than spoken language—which means the shade you’re wearing is doing the real communication work.”

Lewis points out that trust is one of humanity’s most fragile and important qualities. We can build or undermine it in seconds through visible choices. Some colors inspire trust, and others can sabotage it. While trust can take a “lifetime to build (and seconds to destroy),” Lewis notes that the research is more nuanced. She reports that research on first impressions suggests that people form judgments about trustworthiness, competence and warmth within the first few seconds of meeting someone.

“Color is one of the primary inputs shaping those judgments,” she explains. “Understanding this gives you a genuine advantage—not to manipulate, but to make sure the signal you’re sending matches the person you actually are and the intention you want to bring into the room.”

We asked three color psychology experts, “What’s the best color to wear for trust?” They all kept mentioning this one color. Read on to find out.

Related: Color Psychologist Says if Your Favorite Color Is Blue, You Likely Have These 7 Traits

The Unanimous Winner: Why Blue Is the Ultimate Trust Color

Three color psychology experts tell Parade that blue is the best color to wear for trust because of the neurological response it creates. Research and experts say blue projects calm, clarity, reliability and stability, making it one of the most trustworthy colors in psychology.

The Psychology: Why Our Brains Trust Blue

Michelle T. Sterling has more than 20 years of experience as an image consultant, personal stylist and color analysis trainer. She notes that, in professional settings, people normally wear blue to show trust and credibility. In fact, she says blue is one of the best colors to wear to a job interview.

“Dark blue creates the strongest impression of trust because it usually projects authority and seriousness,” states Sterling, the founder of Sterling Style Academy. “Blue also projects a certain trust factor, which is why during professional situations where you need to look trustworthy—like a job interview, sales meeting, networking event or leadership and client interactions—it’s good to wear blue.”

Lewis points out that blue is one of the most trustworthy colors for psychological and neurological reasons. She notes that research consistently supports this idea. For instance, in a 2023 study, researchers surveyed patients and visitors at the University of North Carolina Medical Center. They asked them to evaluate clinicians in different colored scrubs: blue, green and black. The clinician in blue was the most commonly chosen as “most trustworthy.” Another study found that cool colors, like blue, consistently yielded higher trust ratings than warm ones.

“Blue’s position on the visible light spectrum gives it a specific neurological quality,” Lewis explains.

She notes that research links blue to improvements on tasks requiring creativity and expansive thinking.

“That’s the kind of thinking associated with someone who is calm, considered and operating from a place of clarity rather than reactivity,” she explains. “When we perceive someone in blue, those same qualities register in the people around you before they’ve formed a conscious opinion”

That said, Dr. Sarah Seung-McFarland, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist specializing in fashion and design psychology and founder of Trulery, says our brains don’t simply inherently “trust blue.”

“I think it’s more accurate to say we learn to associate colors with meaning,” Dr. McFarland tells Parade. “Research on color and trust in online advertising suggests that darker blue can influence perceptions of trustworthiness in that particular context.”

Plus, she says that many people might have personal experiences that can lead them to associate blue with trustworthiness. Lewis echoes similar sentiments, noting that blue is the color of clear skies and calm waters, which we have historically linked to peace.

“When you wear blue, you’re triggering a low-level neurological response that communicates: this is a safe, stable, reliable person,” Lewis explains.

That said, your body language and setting both shape how people perceive your true colors.

“Blue’s trust signal is strongest when it’s consistent with who you actually are and the context you’re in,” she clarifies. “A blue that feels forced or out of place won’t do the same work as one worn with genuine ease.”

Related: Color Psychologist Says the Color of Your Shoes Impacts You More Than You Think—Here’s Why

How To Choose the Right Shade for the Right Situation

There are several shades of blue, and they aren’t all the same when you want to project trustworthiness.

“From a color analysis perspective, different shades of blue carry this trust signal in different ways depending on their depth, tone and temperature,” Lewis says.

She shares which shade of blue to choose when you want to convey that you’re trustworthy, based on the context.

• What color to wear to an interview for a job: Navy (autumn blue) because it projects experience, dependability and quiet authority.
• What color to wear when vulnerably owning up to a mistake with a friend/partner: Soft-toned blue (summer blue) because it projects openness and emotional safety.
• What color to wear on a first date: Sky blue or periwinkle (spring blue) because it projects warmth, optimism and genuine interest.
• What color to wear when making a proposal to a prospective client: True medium blue (winter blue) because it projects clarity, confidence and professional credibility.
• What color to wear when caring for someone’s child or pet: Soft-toned blue or sage-blue (summer blue) because it projects gentleness, calm and trustworthiness.
• Applying for a loan: Navy or deep steel blue (autumn blue) because it projects responsibility, stability and seriousness of purpose.
• What color to wear when applying for a loan: True clear blue (winter blue) because it projects authority and conviction.
• What color to wear when mediating an issue between two friends/employees: Soft-toned blue (summer blue) because it projects neutrality, calm and even-handedness.

The 3 Runner-Up Colors That Also Inspire Confidence

Does blue make you look trustworthy? Yes, if your body language and personal history align with the people you’re with. However, if you don’t feel trustworthy in blue, Lewis says there are other colors that can inspire trust, and you can choose them instead.

1. Green

Lewis shares that green (especially muted green) projects stability, groundedness and warmth in a way that helps many people feel safe to open up to you. It tells people, “I’m steady. I’m safe. You can relax.”

She says a 2019 Frontiers in Psychology study suggested that green environments reduce heart rate and stress markers.

“Green genuinely calms the people around you, which is one of the fastest routes to building trust,” she states.

2. Soft lavender or muted purple

Lewis says that soft lavender or muted purple conveys openness, depth and genuine receptivity. She shares that these qualities “make people feel heard and understood.”

“In color psychology, purple lovers are consistently described as the most open and connection-oriented personalities—people who are genuinely interested in what others have to say,” she states. “That quality translates directly into trust-building. Purple says, ‘I’m actually listening.'”

3. Soft cream or warm white

When used carefully, Lewis reports that soft cream or warm white signal clarity, transparency and a clean, open quality.

“The absence of heavy color can signal openness in the right context, particularly in one-on-one situations where you want to come across as straightforward and uncomplicated,” she says.

Caveat: Lewis shares that pure bright white environments can trigger mild stress responses with prolonged exposure. She says soft cream and warm white “work better as a clean accent or in combination with a warmer tone than as a head-to-toe choice.”

Related: Color Psychologist Says These 5 Colors Are Worn Most by ‘Highly Intelligent’ People

The 3 Colors To Avoid When You Need Someone To Trust You

Blue is one of the most trustworthy colors. But experts say there are certain colors that don’t inspire trust. These are the colors to avoid for job interviews and other situations that require credibility.

1. Hot pink or fuchsia

Dr. McFarland says these shades can feel expressive, bold and playful. They may even signal confidence in self-expression.

“That is not the same as stability or restraint associated with trust,” she says. “In general, more restrained color palettes may keep perceptions of reliability and competence front and center.”

2. Neon yellow

Attention-grabbing and energetic? Yes. Trustworthy? Maybe not, says Dr. McFarland.

“Neon yellow can feel playful or create a sense of alertness, which may compete with the calmer, more restrained impression you want when trying to establish trust or credibility,” she warns.

3. Saturated orange

Lewis notes that orange is one of the warmest, most socially connecting colors around. So, why doesn’t it say, “Trust me?”

“In contexts where trust needs to be built carefully, its high energy and sociability can read as performative rather than genuine,” she explains. “It creates warmth quickly but can undermine the sense of depth and seriousness that some trust-critical situations require. Orange works better once trust is already there.”

Up Next:

Related: Color Psychologist Says Wearing This Color Makes You Appear Instantly More Confident

Sources:

• Michelle Lewis is a color psychology expert and certified color analyst, the founder of ColorAnalysis.com and The Color Institute and the author of Color Secrets: Learning The One Universal Language We Were Never Taught.
• Dr. Sarah Seung-McFarland, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist specializing in fashion and design psychology and founder of Trulery.
• Michelle T. Sterling is an image consultant, personal stylist, color analysis trainer and the founder of Sterling Style Academy.
• Influence of Clothing Color Value on Trust Perception. (2021) IJERT.
• Association Between Patient Perception of Surgeons and Color of Scrub Attire. JAMA.
• Exploring the Effect of Red and Blue on Cognitive Task Performances. (2016) Frontiers in Psychology.
• Colour in Online Advertising: Going for Trust, Which Blue is a Must? Marketing – from Information to Decision Journal.
• Adaptive Effects of Seeing Green Environment on Psychophysiological Parameters. (2019) Frontiers in Psychology.

Jalen Brunson may have traded the basketball court for Studio 8H, but he’s apparently not ready to turn off his championship mindset.

The New York Knicks star is getting ready to host Saturday Night Live for the first time, and the new promo suggests he’s approaching the job with the same intensity he brought to the NBA Finals. As Marcello Hernandez tries to convince Brunson that his first SNL appearance is supposed to be fun, the reigning NBA champion has just two words for him: “I’m locked in.”

As it turns out, Brunson isn’t the only one taking the assignment very seriously.

Hernandez turns to KATSEYE for backup and finds none. “We’re locked in,” Lara responds with an icy stare that would make any point guard proud. The only crack in the armor comes from Daniela, who briefly breaks into a goofy grin before being snapped back to attention by a sharp throat-clear from Lara.

For Brunson, the appearance comes just months after helping bring an NBA championship back to New York. Now he’s trading the Larry O’Brien Trophy for the SNL stage, taking on one of the biggest entertainment gigs of his career so far.

KATSEYE will join him as the musical guest, promoting its Billboard 200-topping album WILD. The group is currently performing as a four-member lineup, with Sophia sitting out amid her previously announced hiatus.

The season 52 premiere marks a first for both Brunson and KATSEYE and judging by the new promo, neither is planning to take the opportunity lightly. They may be stepping into a comedy show, but for their SNL debut, Brunson and KATSEYE are clearly locked in.

If A Charlie Brown Christmas is on your holiday must-watch list and you dream of a visit from Santa Snoopy, you’ll want to pay attention to the latest drop from body care brand Native. The Native X Peanuts Holiday Collection is out now, and it brings the perfect mix of nostalgic characters like Charlie Brown and Linus and familiar holiday scents to your getting-ready routine.

The collection features four limited-edition scents that come in products like body wash, body lotion, deodorant, and more. And, because there are products in the collection that start at just $4, it’s perfect for all of your holiday gifting needs, from stocking stuffers to gift baskets.

Here are the four Native X Peanuts Holiday Collection scents:

• Peppermint Patty: With hints of peppermint, vanilla bark, and citrus, this fragrance is available in deodorant, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, body scrub, and hand soap.
• Starry Snowfall: Available in deodorant, deodorant spray, body wash, shampoo, and conditioner, this fragrance smells of violet flower, sandalwood, and leather.
• Holiday Magic: Whipped cherry, apple, and almond milk make up this holiday fragrance, which is available in deodorant, body wash, and body scrub.
• Frosted Wreath: This scent comes as deodorant and body wash, and smells of warm spices, soft lavender, and sheer woods.

The Native X Peanuts Holiday Collection includes scents like Frosted Wreath and Holiday Magic.

Native

The Native X Peanuts Holiday Collection is available now at Native.com and both online and in stores at Target, which is perfect if you prefer to smell them all before you choose your signature holiday scent.

The collaboration isn’t the first between Native and the Peanuts franchise. Earlier this year, the brands combined for the Native X Peanuts Fall Collection, which included scents like Apple Orchard and Maple Latte.

Starbucks also released details on two Peanuts-inspired “Secret Menu” Frappuccinos earlier this month, proving Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and the gang are having quite the comeback in 2026.

Halloween candy is getting a little glow-up this year. Literally.

Sour Patch Kids is celebrating the spooky season with three new limited-edition candies that put a Halloween spin on the brand’s familiar sweet-and-sour treats. The lineup includes monster-shaped gummies, candy that plays tricks on your taste buds, and ghost-shaped pieces that glow under blacklight.

First up are Sour Patch Kids Monster Parts, which will be the perfect creepy addition to a Halloween candy bowl. The gummies come in monster-inspired shapes and three flavors: Black Raspberry, Orange and Watermelon.

Then there’s Sour Patch Kids Tricksters, which takes the Halloween concept a step further. Each piece looks like it should taste like one familiar flavor, but actually tastes like another, giving candy lovers a little surprise with every bite.

And for anyone looking to make their Halloween setup a little more eerie, Sour Patch Kids Glow Ups Ghosts feature ghost-shaped candies in Orange and Peach flavors with edible confetti that glows under a blacklight.

The new treats are available at major retailers including Amazon, Target and Walmart, with prices starting at $1.50 and all three varieties are available for the Halloween season while supplies last.

While Halloween candy tends to stick to familiar seasonal shapes and flavors, Sour Patch Kids is leaning into the element of surprise with this year’s limited-edition lineup. Between the unexpected flavors and blacklight effect, these aren’t exactly the candy bags trick-or-treaters might expect to find.

It’s not the first time time the candy maker has leaned into an element of surprise this year. This spring, Sour Patch Kids Chews – a circular shaped candy chewy candy that is sweet on the outside with a burst of sour on the inside – debuted, completely bucking the brand’s traditional “first they’re sour, then they’re sweet” tagline.

“We know consumers want new textures and experiences when they’re in the candy aisle, so we saw an opportunity to bring Sour Patch Kids signature sour to the world of chewy candy in a new and unique way,” Lauryn McDonough, Senior Director, Candy, Mondelēz International, said in a release at the time.

Thomas Rhett is one of country music’s biggest contemporary stars, but his wife, Lauren Akins, can honestly say she knew him when. The two met in elementary school in Nashville, later attended the same church camp and even briefly dated in high school. They dated other people but remained friends, eventually reconnecting at a graduation party for Lauren’s sister. That’s when their relationship took a turn. Lauren would go on to inspire some of Rhett’s biggest hits.

Thomas Rhett and Lauren Akins Reconnected Years After Meeting as Kids @thomasrhettdaily

@Thomas Rhett on confessing his love to his wife Lauren. #thomasrhett #interview #lovestory #country

♬ Look What God Gave Her – Thomas Rhett

The pair reconnected in 2011, when Rhett confessed that his feelings had gone beyond friendship. Even Lauren’s father encouraged the songwriter to make his move. The pair began dating, got engaged six months later and married in October 2012. Both were just 22.

Rhett’s career, meanwhile, was evolving from that of an aspiring songwriter into a contemporary country music sensation as his relationship with Lauren grew. He signed a publishing deal at 20, launched his recording career with “It Goes Like This” in 2013 and broke through with songs like “It Goes Like This,” “Crash and Burn,” “Die a Happy Man” and “T-Shirt.” His 2017 album Life Changes debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.

The more Rhett wrote about the life he was building with Lauren, the more personal his music became. And that personal connection helped turn his love songs into something listeners could see themselves in.

Related: Legendary Dire Straits Guitarist, Covered by Gregg Allman, Turns 74

Lauren Akins Inspired Some of Thomas Rhett’s Biggest Love Songs

Lauren became Rhett’s muse for some of his biggest hits. Rhett has said she inspired “Die a Happy Man,” his 2015 hit about realizing he already has everything he needs.

“Marry Me” took their love story in a very different direction. The song imagines a version of their relationship in which Rhett never confesses his true feelings and instead watches Lauren marry someone else. Knowing that the real-life couple had spent years as friends before finding their way back to each other makes the song feel even more personal.

Thomas Rhett’s Music Has Grown Alongside His Family @rhettcentral

they look better in love! #thomasrhett #family #marriage #lovestory #countryconcert

♬ original sound – rhettcentral

Rhett’s songwriting continued to evolve as the couple started a family. After struggling to conceive, the pair began exploring adoption. They adopted their daughter Willa Gray in 2017 following a trip to Uganda the year before. At the same time, Lauren was pregnant with their second daughter, Ada James.

They later welcomed Lennon Love in 2020 and Lillie Carolina in 2021, giving the couple four daughters. The couple welcomed their first son, Brave Elijah in February, 2026.

Their family life became another part of the story Rhett was telling through his music. What began with songs about falling in love eventually expanded into songs about marriage, parenthood and the everyday life they were building together.

His Most Recent Music Looks Back at Their Love Story

Rhett’s 2024 album About a Woman was a particularly personal chapter, inspired by Lauren and their relationship over time. “What Could Go Right” tells the story of the night their friendship finally turned into something more, while “Overdrive” serves as a snapshot of Lauren during their teenage years.

That may be the most interesting part of their story. Rhett’s biggest love songs weren’t written about someone he met after becoming famous. They are personal snapshots of a relationship that began with a schoolyard crush, survived years apart and grew alongside his career.

Long before the world knew Thomas Rhett, Lauren Akins knew him as the boy from Nashville. She eventually became his wife, the mother of his four daughters and a recurring character in the songs that helped make him a country star. Their relationship has essentially become part of his musical memoir, with each new chapter capturing a different stage of the life they built together.

Related: These 2 Beloved ’80s Actors Were Friends for 35 Years Before They Quietly Eloped in 2021

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Spotify has become one of the latest platforms to listen to audiobooks. Since introducing audiobooks to its catalog in September 2022, it’s become a popular place to listen on the go. Now, the company is going one step further to make it easier to hear something new or find something different. Since December 2025, a new hub has been added to help you find everything you should listen to.

The Spotify Editors’ Audiobooks Picks is a hub dedicated to bringing you a mixture of new and older novels that the platform thinks you should pay attention to. Each month, there will be a new selection of books, making sure you can get ready when your listening hours reset or when you’re looking for where to spend your book budget next.

September’s list is mostly made up of September releases, including Never Say Die by Ke Huy Quan and Murder at the Grand Alpine Hotel by Lucy Foley and Agatha Christie. However, there is the odd older release on the list like the popular May release from Freida McFadden, The Divorce.

One to keep an eye out for is American Hagwon by Min Jin Lee, which is out on Sept. 29, 2026. According to Spotify, Lee’s catalog is quickly growing, with searches up 25% year-over-year when it comes to Pachinko. The searches for Free Food for Millionaires have more than doubled as fans get ready for her new release.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 08: Min Jin Lee attends an evening with Spotify and Min Jin Lee celebrating American Hagwon at The Ned on September 08, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images for Spotify)

The great thing about Spotify is that it can connect trends between books and music. Lee’s surge in popularity comes from listeners who are huge fans of Korean music. They think globally in everything they do, and are 7-17 times more likely to listen to AKMU, Epik High, and other Korean artists.

Katie del Rosario, Associate Director of Books Editorial for Spotify shared that the September picks have included many books and novels that the team has been looking forward to all year. In a statement, she shared, “Ke Huy Quan’s Never Say Die is one of the most moving memoirs we’ve encountered in years. It’s a heartfelt story about reinvention and how to keep believing in yourself when the world has moved on. Emily St. John Mandel’s Exit Party builds a fractured, near-future world that feels unsettlingly close to our own—it’s a story about surveillance, safety, and what we’re willing to give up for both. And Lucy Foley brings Miss Marple back for the first authorized novel in fifty years with Murder at the Grand Alpine Hotel. It’s sharp, atmospheric, and so much fun, with a star-studded multicast narration.”

There really is something for everyone when it comes to the September picks. If you’re interested in romance, Disenchanted by Lucy Jane Wood was released on Sept. 8 and earned a place on the list ahead of its release. Practical Magic fans will have been excited to read Alice Hoffman’s The Witches of Cambridge, which is now available to listen to.

Here’s the full list of audiobooks the Spotify editors have chosen to highlight in September:

• Never Say Die by Ke Huy Quan
• The Divorce by Freida McFadden
• American Hagwon by Min Jin Lee
• Platform Decay by Martha Wells
• Exit Party by Emily St. John Mandel
• I Think My Therapist Hates Me by Chris Olsen
• Tempest by Victoria Aveyard
• The Witches of Cambridge by Alice Hoffman
• They Say a Girl Died Here by Sarah Pinborough
• The Neverfear by Katherine Rundell
• The Art of Fighting by Priya Parker
• Disenchanted by Lucy Jane Wood
• Anger Is Only a Shadow by Elizabeth Acevedo
• The Knot by Seth Godin and Mel Robbins
• Murder at the Grand Alpine Hotel by Lucy Foley and Agatha Christie
• Have Your Cake by Grace Reilly
• Baldur’s Gate 3: Astarion by T. Kingfisher

The only difficult choice you’ll have is how to use your 15 hours of listening time. Of course, there’s always the option of buying the books, so you can listen to them without worrying about eating into your hours available through your Premium subscription.

We’ll be back each month with a run down of all the top picks coming from Spotify.

U.S. book retailer Books-A-Million has made its selection for the 2026 Book of the Year and announced three can’t-miss events with the author. This year, the winner of the annual award, which is selected by store associates and booksellers within the company’s network, is Ariel Lawhon’s The Pirate Queen.

A work of historical fiction, The Pirate Queen tells the story of real-life Irish chieftain and folk heroine Grace O’Malley, who fights to protect her people as Queen Elizabeth I’s forces begin to take over Ireland. This epic battle against imperialism sees powerful themes of heroism, suspense and, of course, some romance as well.

Cover of The Pirate Queen.

In celebration of this achievement, Books-A-Million is hosting three upcoming events with the author, which are as follows:

• Monday, Oct. 5: In Birmingham, Ala., at the Lyric Theatre
• Tuesday, Oct. 13: In Nashville, Tenn., at the Books-A-Million store in Mt. Juliet
• Thursday, Oct. 15: In Philadelphia, Pa., at Drexel University

Lawhon is a New York Times bestselling author, whose novel The Frozen River has sold more than two million copies and spent 21 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. About this most recent success, Lawhon said in a statement, “I’m so honored that Books-A-Million has chosen The Pirate Queen as their Book of the Year. I knew—from the first moment I read about Grace O’Malley—that she would be the subject of my next book. She is everything I’m drawn to in a main character: fierce and funny, rebellious and loyal. I am delighted that countless new readers will now get to meet this wild Irish woman, and I couldn’t be more grateful to the staff and readers at BAM for making that happen.”

Photo credit: Kristee Mays Photograhy

Of this selection, Executive Vice President of Merchandising at Books-A-Million Kathy Gagliano said, “After months of reading, recommending and discussing this year’s books, our booksellers named The Pirate Queen a clear favorite across the company’s book clubs,” and Brittany Smith, Senior Fiction Buyer at Books-A-Million similarly shared, “The Pirate Queen is a powerful reminder that women have never needed permission to be strong.”

Book lovers can find The Pirate Queen at Books-A-Million locations nationwide and online at booksamillion.com.

All Time Low has announced a special performance at New York City’s Radio City Music Hall.

On Feb. 19, 2027, the Maryland quartet — lead singer and guitarist Alex Gaskarth, lead guitarist Jack Barakat, drummer Rian Dawson, and bassist Zack Merrick — will headline the famed music venue in celebration of the 20th anniversary of So Wrong, It’s Right, playing the seminal album in full for one night only.

“Twenty years later and ‘So Wrong, It’s Right’ is still some of our most impactful work as a band — it laid a foundation for us to grow into the band we are today and so many of these songs still hold a very important place in our live shows and with the fans,” Gaskarth said in a statement. “It’s strange to think that this album was the soundtrack to a lot of folks’ formative years, and feel like we share that with them in a lot of ways, because we were just kids then too. This is a celebration of where it all began, but also how far we’ve come.”

Artist presale will begin on Tuesday, Sept. 29th at 10am ET, and local presales will be accessible on Wednesday, Sept. 30th and Thursday, Oct. 1 at 10am ET. General sale tickets can be purchased starting Friday, Oct. 2nd at 10am ET. More details and ticket information can be found on All Time Low’s official website.  

So Wrong, It’s Right, All Time Low’s second studio album, was released on Sept. 25, 2007 and features some of the band’s biggest hits, including “Dear Maria, Count Me In,” “Six Feet Under the Stars,” and “Poppin’ Champagne.”

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Ranked at No. 20 among Rolling Stone‘s 50 greatest pop-punk albums of all time, the fan-favorite record peaked at No. 62 on the Billboard 200 chart. “Dear Maria, Count Me In,” which served as the album’s second single and is often the closing song at All Time Low concerts, has amassed over one billion streams and is certified 4x platinum.

Related: 2000s Rock Band Released ‘Album of the Year’ 9 Years Ago Today

If elevated household costs have you double-checking your budget as the holidays approach, there’s some good news coming straight from the toy aisle. The Toy Insider has officially released its 21st annual Holiday Gift Guide for 2026, and this year’s roster is designed explicitly with wallet-conscious shoppers in mind.

Featuring 400 top-rated toys from over 190 manufacturers, the 2026 gift guide stands as the organization’s most budget-friendly list to date. Nearly half of it—around 200 featured items—retails for under $25, with 75% of the overall list priced under $50.

Here’s a full breakdown of the biggest trends on this year’s list, the top budget picks and where you can grab the hot-ticket items before shelves clear out.

Related: Dollar General Teams Up With Hallmark for Exclusive New Holiday Collection Starting at $1

Why 2026 Is The Toy Insider‘s Most Affordable Guide Yet

Inflation and everyday expenses continue to influence family spending habits, but toy demand remains at an all-time high. A big driver behind that demand is the surge in “kidults”—tweens, teens and adults who are actively buying toys and collectibles for themselves or their fandoms.

To balance rising costs with growing interest across all age groups, toy manufacturers have leaned heavily into accessible price points without skimping on play value.

“We’ve all been there: You want to find a toy kids will be excited to unwrap, but you also want to know it’s something they’ll actually play with,” says Laurie Schacht, Chief Toy Officer at The Toy Insider. “After testing toys all year, our experts found exciting, affordable options for every stage…Through this year’s Holiday Gift Guide, shoppers can spend less time second-guessing and feel confident about every gift they add to their cart.”

The Top Trends Driving Wish Lists This Season

This year’s selections reflect a few massive pop culture and sensory trends dominating store aisles. Squishy tactile toys, mystery blind boxes and retro re-releases continue to command major shelf space.

Character-driven play is also leading the pack, with heavy representation from household franchises including Spider-Man, Toy Story, Pokémon and Netflix’s smash hit KPop Demon Hunters.

To simplify shopping, The Toy Insider breaks its standout selections down into three curated signature lists:

• The Hot 20: The premier items expected to top kids’ wish lists across four age brackets (0–2, 3–4, 5–7 and 8+).
• The STEM 10: Educational toys that blend science, tech, engineering and math into hands-on play.
• The 12 Under $20: High-value stocking stuffers and budget gifts that deliver big fun without big price tags.

Standout Picks From the ‘Hot 20’ by Age Group Bluey’s Light & Surprise Heeler House

The Toy Insider

Whether you’re shopping for a toddler or an older kid looking for complex builds, The Toy Insider editorial team narrowed down the absolute standouts across each age group:

Ages 0–2 (Infants & Toddlers)

• Fisher-Price Little People My Mario’s Adventure Playset: A toddler-friendly entry into the Nintendo universe.
• Sesame Street Tickle Me Elmo Giggle Max: The latest iteration of the interactive classic.

Ages 3–4 (Toddlers & Preschoolers)

• Bluey’s Light & Surprise Heeler House: A feature-packed playhouse for fans of the hit show.
• PAW Patrol Megasaurus Vehicle: High-octane rescue play for preschool drivers.

Ages 5–7 (Early Grade School)

• KPop Demon Hunters Singing Fashion Dolls: Bringing the Netflix animated hit straight to the playroom.
• Pokémon TCG 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box: A must-have for young card collectors during Pokémon’s milestone anniversary year.
• Primal Hatch Hatching Megalodon: An interactive hatching experience with a prehistoric twist.

Ages 8+ (Tweens, Teens & Kidults)

• LEGO Star Wars Smart Play: Throne Room Duel & A-Wing: Advanced building sets packed with smart play features.
• Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game (Rapunzel Edition): The trading card strategy game taking over tabletop gaming.
• Pokémon Pikachu Puppatronic by RealFX: An animatronic companion built for long-time franchise fans.

The 12 Best Toys Under $20 for Budget Shopping

The Toy Insider

For shoppers looking for secret Santa gifts, party favors or stocking stuffers, the 12 Under $20 list highlights high-appeal options that cost less than a lunch order:

• NERF KPop Demon Hunters (Hasbro)
• Squishmallows Original KPop Demon Hunters (Derpy & Sussie) (Jazwares)
• Fuggler Gold Edition Figure Blind Box (PMI)
• Dungeons & Dragons Questers (Basic Fun!)
• SQZY Gel Gems Pyramid & Cube (Sunny Days Entertainment)
• Butterluvs (RoseArt)
• Happy Haul (Just Play)
• Bilibo Midi (Fat Brain Toys)
• Animal Jamboree (Battat)
• Just Ameerah Fluffy vs Clearz 9 Pack (WeCool Toys)
• Rump Race (PlayMonster)
• Starbox Nook Nooks Series 1 (ZURU)

Related: I Just Attended the 2026 Toy Fair in NYC—Here Are the 4 Trends I’m Most Excited About

Where To Buy the Top Toys and How To Prepare

To help parents track down items quickly, The Toy Insider has named Walmart as its preferred retailer for the 2026 holiday season. Shoppers can also access The Toy Insider Edit: Walmart Top Toys, a specialized collection available directly through Walmart stores and online.

A quick practical tip for parents: This year’s guide is powered in partnership with Duracell. Any featured toy requiring batteries will display a clear Duracell icon on the Toy Insider website, giving shoppers a heads-up to buy the appropriate batteries ahead of time so gifts are ready for play right out of the box.

Shoppers can explore the full 400-item guide, filter by exact age ranges and run price comparisons across retailers by visiting thetoyinsider.com.

Related: 25 Popular Toys Every Kid Wanted in the 1990s

As Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, spoke to the United Nations General Assembly, hundreds of people gathered outside in protest. Among them was Thelma and Louise star Susan Sarandon, who was later taken away in handcuffs.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show star was detained, along with Hacks actress Hannah Einbinder and many others in New York, according to CTV News. A video has been shared on social media to highlight the moment she was placed in handcuffs, not once fighting back against the decision.

The protesters held banners that read “End the Genocide” and “Stop Arming Israel,” all organized by Jewish Voice for Peace. Sarandon wore a T-shirt that said, “Fund people not bombs.” An NYPD spokesperson shared that officers had been called to reports of an “unscheduled demonstration” that was blocking intersections. When they got there, warnings were issued to advise people to leave, and when they didn’t, they were taken into custody.

The spokesperson didn’t provide the number of people arrested. Nor has there been any word on the reports of Sarandon and Einbinder’s detentions.

CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / Getty Images

Sarandon recently spoke out about how she has found it hard to find work due to her stance on the war in Gaza. While at the Venice Film Festival, she explained that the “power structure” was making it difficult for her to land roles, sharing that “there are still very strongly held positions within my industry that are held by Zionists and who have not relaxed their feelings towards me.”

She ended that speech sharing that she has “found my family” and “found my people,” clarifying that she is “okay.”

Sarandon is not the only actress who has found herself in hot water due to being a part of protests or speaking out about Palestine. Melissa Barrera was fired from Scream 7 due to her online statements. Einbinder had originally remained quiet about hers, but realized that the cost of not speaking up was greater than losing her career, sharing, “You’ve just got to have your priorities straight.”

The Guardian also reports that democratic congressional candidate Darializa Avila Chevalier and New York City council member Chi Ossé were among those arrested by NYPD officers.

Meanwhile, inside the general assembly, dozens of envoys decided to walk out while Netanyahu spoke. During his speech, he spoke against countries like Britain and France, along with both enemies and allies, speaking out against their views of colonialism.

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The best decor pieces are those that are just as functional as they are decorative, truly giving you a bang for your buck. Solar light statues are a prime example, accenting your garden or patio during the day while providing your outdoor space with ambient lighting. Now that fall’s finally here, bringing the perfect weather to cozy up outside in the evening, there’s no better time to add one to your backyard. Walmart carries a ton of budget-friendly options, and this Hongland Animal-Themed Solar Light Statue is one of our favorite finds. 

Right now, you can score this solar light statue on sale for up to 61% off! Normally retailing for $28, it’s now marked down to just $11 in a gold rabbit style. The statue is also on sale in three other designs, including a highland cow, a gold cat, and a goose. Those normally retail between $23 and $30, but you can now get them for either $17 or $20. 

Hongland Animal-Themed Solar Light Statue, From $11 (was $28) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Oozing with cottagecore charm, these solar light statues lend themselves to the cottagecore aesthetic. They’re nature-inspired and capture the essence of a slow-paced, rural lifestyle. Walmart shoppers loved the look of these sculptures, describing them as “absolutely adorable,” “very cute,” and “beautiful.” 

Both the cat and rabbit statues have a gold finish, making them feel luxurious and elegant. They’re etched with intricate, realistic details, which help bring them to life. Featuring a similar design, the rabbit and cat both hold a lantern in their paws. Fitted with an LED lightbulb, they’ll illuminate your space with a soft glow. One shopper noted that the light isn’t too bright and is “just perfect for the evening.”

Whimsical and playful, the cow and the goose statues boast vibrant hues and more of a cartoonish look. They also feature etched details, giving them some depth and dimension so they can stand out anywhere. The cow statue boasts a crackled glass orb filled with a string of fairy lights. With various color options, the string lights will get the mood just right for your lounging needs. The goose holds a bouquet in its arms, with many of the flowers featuring a lightbulb in the center

Hongland Animal-Themed Solar Light Statue, From $11 (was $28) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Sustainable and environmentally-friendly, these solar light statues don’t require any batteries or electricity. Equipped with a solar panel, they only rely on sunlight for power. The solar panel needs about six to eight hours of direct sunlight to fully charge and keeps the lights on for up to 10 hours at night. It’ll detect when it gets dark outside and automatically turn the lights on, making this a low-maintenance choice. 

Made of resin, these statues are hand-painted, giving them artisanal charm. They’re waterproof and resistant to heat and frost, designed to withstand intense sunlight, rain, and snow. You should be able to leave them out year-round for all-season use. 

Depending on the style, the statue ranges between 9.5 inches and 12 inches tall. They’re small enough to fit anywhere in your outdoor space, but large enough to stand out and make a statement. You can elevate them on a ledge or table, or keep them on the ground in your garden, porch, or patio. 

Shop More Solar Light Statues 

• Hongland Gnome Solar Light Statue, From $13 (was $37) at Walmart
• Techko Buddy the Puppy Solar Light Statue, $20 (was $35) at Walmart
• Molumo Turtle and Frog Solar Light Statue, $40 (was $60) at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s Cherry Blossom Solar String Lights Turn Your Patio Into a ‘Magical’ Oasis

Accent your patio with cottagecore charm during the day and transform it into a cozy oasis at night with the Hongland Animal-Themed Solar Light Statue. Head to Walmart and snag it while it’s still on sale for as low as $11! 

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