The Department of Homeland Security has spoken: Americans no longer need to remove their boots (and shoes) as they go through airport security.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced the change, which will allow passengers traveling through domestic airports to keep their shoes on while going through security screening at TSA checkpoints.

This is major news, as American passengers have had to remove their shoes and place them into a bin to get scanned since 2006.

Kids that are born after this day will never know the scurry of quickly putting your shoes back on as you collected your items, as to not disrupt the flow of the line.

The removal of shoes at TSA checkpoints was implemented because of the "shoe bomber" incident involving Richard Reid in December of 2001.

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"Ending the ‘Shoes-Off’ policy is the latest effort DHS is implementing to modernize and enhance traveler experience across our nation’s airports. We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience," Noem says.

Don't think for one second though that this means Uncle Sam is slacking on your security when you get on an airplane.

Noem continues, "As always, security remains our top priority. Thanks to our cutting-edge technological advancements and multi-layered security approach, we are confident we can implement this change while maintaining the highest security standards."

The Top 26 Country Songs of 2025, Ranked

The Top 25 Country Songs of 2025 list is not a roll out of the biggest radio hits of the year. Original duets, Christian cross-overs, meaningful deep cuts and breakout independent artists also help shape the year's best.

The Top 5 songs on this list rely on meaningful lyrics and an original arrangement. A great hook and popular presentation just isn't going to get it done any longer and a few artists (Zach Top, Jelly Roll, Ella Langley) have figured that out X2.

Airplay charts, sales data and streaming numbers helped make this list of country music's Top 25 songs of 2025, but staff and Taste of Country reader opinion were also influential.

Gallery Credit: Billy Dukes

Country Stars With Their Own Bars + Restaurants

Of all of the side hustles country artists could partake in, opening a bar or restaurant is the most fitting — and very common. After all, many of these stars got their start on a barstool, tip jar nearby, playing their music for anyone who would listen.

These places feel like home for many of these singers. Over the years, several artists have gotten into the bar or restaurant game, and for a select few, brands have turned into franchises with several locations and/or concepts — we're looking at you, Jimmy Buffett!

Let's take a look at the country star food and entertainment venues that have opened over the years.

Gallery Credit: Jess

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