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Here's what could happen to America's hundreds of dead malls

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northgate mall

As one of the first post-war suburban shopping centers in the US, the Northgate Mall in northern Seattle defines classic mall architecture.

Its architect, John Graham Jr., pioneered the dumbbell, big-box shape for malls, in which two rows of stores face each other and two department stores anchor each end. Graham also gave the Northgate Mall a grocery store (which later became a food court) and a huge parking lot. In the decades that followed, malls around the country copied Northgate's layout. It became the model for most American malls through the late 20th century. 

This design may not be working in the 21st century, however. Hundreds of malls and thousands of mall-based stores have shuttered in the past two decades, and many more may close in coming years. Approximately 2,000 store locations have announced closures since mid-April, and Credit Suisse analysts expect that number to swell to 8,600 by the end of 2017. In a new report, the research firm predicts that 20% to 25% of malls — or about 220 to 275 shopping centers — will shutter over the next five years, largely due to the store closures.

Traditional malls need to transform themselves to stay alive, and many, including Northgate, are making changes to attract more business.

Developers are now turning many of Northgate Mall's parking spaces into a light rail station, which will connect the neighborhood to downtown Seattle. Other parts of the lot have been turned into LEED-certified apartments, senior housing, a medical center, more retail space, and a bioswale that keeps runoff away from the nearby creek. 

Malls of the future have an opportunity to fulfill other community needs besides commerce, June Williamson, a City College of New York architecture professor and the author of "Retrofitting Suburbia," tells Business Insider.

Here are what may become of the many failing malls of today:

SEE ALSO: The retail apocalypse has officially descended on America

Before: The department store

Nearly every major department store (including Macy's, Kohl's, Walmart, and Sears) has shuttered stores in recent years to reduce losses from unprofitable locations and the rise of online shopping.

The US also just built too many malls, Williamson says. In the mid-'90s, the number of American malls peaked at around 1,500. Today, there are only about 1,000 left.

As more new malls get built, department stores (which often pay a large part of the lease) will move out, making it harder for the mall to survive.

"The development climate of malls were driven less by demand and more by opportunity," Williamson says. "As new centers get built, anchor stores are lured away, and a cannibalization process begins ... Only so many consumers are going to malls, and they will flock to newer ones. If developers build a new mall, they are inevitably undercutting another property. So older properties have to get re-positioned every decade, or they will die."



After: Fitness centers, churches, medical clinics, and data centers

Closed department stores will likely become other businesses that can benefit from the large square-footage, like fitness centers, churches, offices, public libraries, and even medical clinics, Williamson says.

The number of walk-in clinics in malls rose 15% from 2011 to 2016, according to the Urgent Care Association of America. Last year, Bloomberg reported that a third of all urgent care is now located inside shopping centers.

In 2007, the 100 Oaks Mall redeveloped one of its department stores into the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, which leases over half of 850,000-square-foot building. (The other half is still retail space today.)

In late 2016, the Milpitas Planning Commission in California also approved a plan to turn the abandoned department store in the Milpitas Town Center into a 24-hour gym.

 



Before: The food court

Retail stores are not the only mall businesses that are struggling. Those in the food court are having a hard time, too.

In 2014, Sbarro — the Italian chain that was a food court staple — filed for bankruptcy, and closed 155 of its 400 American locations, most of which were in malls.

As The New York Times noted at the time, "The company is in financial trouble because one of its big bets on real estate — that Americans will keep going to mall food courts en masse — has turned out to be wrong." 



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The best pillows you can buy for your bed

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Insider Picks_Buying Guides_Pillow 4x3 1

The Insider Pick:

  • A good pillow means a good night's sleep. We reviewed dozens of pillows to narrow down the choices to the ones you’ll love best. The Premium Adjustable Shredded Memory Foam Pillow from Coop Home Goods is our top pick. You’ll enjoy sweet dreams on this supremely comfortable pillow.

Back in the days of Ancient Egypt, a carved stone was considered a very comfortable and supportive pillow, but in today’s world, you’re probably looking for something a bit softer. Luckily, you’ve got a lot more to choose from than the people of ancient times.

There’s a nearly dizzying array of pillows on display in any bed ‘n bath shop, or on the virtual shelves of your favorite online home store. That can make it a bit difficult to choose the best pillow for your needs. Is memory foam best? How about down? Or maybe you’re confused about all the different shapes: standard, contour, bolster. Well, have no fear, because we’ve done the research for you. 

While ultimately, there is no “best for everyone” pillow — personal preference plays a huge part in determining the pillow you’ll like the most — we checked out all the top recommendations from consumer buying websites, listened to what pillow buyers had to say, and even tried out some of the pillows ourselves to bring you the five picks most likely to send you off to the land of Nod comfortably. Here's what you need to know before we jump into the pillow fight.

Sorting out the different pillow fills

The main difference between types of pillows is their filling. While there are many specialty fills, the most common are the following six.

  • Memory foam: Originally created by NASA to cushion astronauts during reentry to Earth’s atmosphere, today, memory foam is one of the most popular types of pillow. It’s very supportive, conforms to your head and neck, is naturally hypoallergenic, and is especially good for those suffering from neck, shoulder, or upper body pain and stiffness. On the downside, it tends to be hot and is heavy.
  • Shredded memory foam: Take memory foam, shred it into small chunks, and you have a supportive, firm, and comfortable pillow filling without the heat and sweat of a traditional memory foam. Shredded memory foam molds and conforms to your body, but if you want it even more customized to your liking, it’s easy to push or pull into just the right loft and shape for your sleeping pleasure.
  • Down: Real down has a luxurious, “sleeping on a cloud” fluffiness that some people love, and others hate. Down is very soft and lightweight, so it easily molds to the perfect loft and shape for your needs. It’s not very supportive, however, and tends to be expensive.
  • Polyester: Polyester is the typical fill in budget pillows. It’s soft, lightweight, and machine-washable, but not exceptionally supportive or firm. Still, it’s a good middle ground between the softness of down and the firmness of memory foam.
  • Buckwheat hulls: Buckwheat hull pillows are not nearly as popular in the United States as they are in Asia, but they definitely have their fan club. A buckwheat hull pillow feels a lot like a beanbag; the hulls move freely inside the pillow, allowing you to adjust the shape, loft, and firmness to your liking. This is one of the best pillow fills for those who “sleep hot,” as well. However, these pillows are heavy, and the hulls can make a rustling sound as you move.
  • Latex: There are two kinds of people in this world: those who love latex pillows, and those who hate them. For those who love them, the firm support with a slightly bouncy feel provides superior sleep comfort. For those who hate them, the usual complaint is that the pillow is just too firm. Latex pillows are heavy and usually expensive, but also very durable, naturally antimicrobial, and not too hot.

Pillow shapes and sizes

Along with different pillow fills, there are also different pillow shapes. Some, such as shams and throw pillows, are purely decorative. Others, such as body pillows, neck bolsters, and various chiropractic designs are specialty pillows. For basic sleep, the following four are the most popular pillow shapes.

  • Traditional: This is the basic, rectangular shape most people prefer. You’ll find three sizes: standard, queen, and king.
  • Contour: These pillows have raised rounded edges to snugly support your neck and a “valley” for your head. Most are made of memory foam and are quite firm.
  • Cervical: These pillows are shaped something like a cat bed: There’s a hollow in the center for your head, which is surrounded on all sides by higher neck rolls. Most are filled with polyester. Cervical pillows are a good choice for people with neck or spine pain and are often recommended by chiropractors.
  • Bolster: Bolsters are cylindrical pillows mostly used for comfortable support of arms and legs during sleep, but some people use them as regular bed pillows. They gently support the neck without placing any pressure on the shoulders or back.

What’s your favorite sleeping position?

Woman Sleeping

While just about everyone shifts position periodically during the night, generally, you’ll favor one sleep position over the rest. And when it comes to choosing the right pillow, your favorite sleep position plays a big role.

  • Side sleepers: This is the most common sleep position and the most neutral one for your spine and neck. The right pillow for a side sleeper is lofty enough to fill the gap between neck and mattress and provides medium-firm to firm support. Any fill is suitable, as long as it’s the right loft for your body type.
  • Stomach sleepers: This undeniably comfy sleep position is hard on your spine, forcing your neck to turn sharply to the side. If this is your favorite way to sleep, make it easier on your back with a pillow that is soft or has little loft. Buckwheat hulls or down pillows are the best choices for those who spend most of the night on their stomach.
  • Back sleepers: If you like to sleep on your back, your perfect pillow has just enough loft to hold your head in alignment with your spine without craning your head forward or allowing it to drop back. A medium-firm density is best for this sleep position. Shredded memory foam, buckwheat hulls, or polyester are good fills for back sleepers.

To outfit your bedroom with the best of everything, check out our guides for the best sheets and the best mattresses.

Although the Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Shredded Memory Foam Pillow is our top pick, for various reasons laid out in the slides below, you should also consider the Royal Hotel Goose Down Pillow, the Zen Chi Buckwheat Hull Pillow, the Smart Home Bedding Super Plush Pillow, and the Sleep Innovations Cool Contour Memory Foam Pillow.

SEE ALSO: The best sheets you can buy for your bed

DON'T MISS: The best mattresses you can buy

The best pillow overall

Why you'll love it: The Premium Adjustable Shredded Memory Foam Pillow from Coop Home Goods will have you sleeping like a baby with its perfect support and variable firmness.

“Ahhh.” That’s the sigh of contentment you’ll utter as your weary head meets the Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Memory Foam Pillow. It's the number-one best-selling pillow on Amazon, and it's filled with shredded memory foam. You’ll get the support and comfortable “sinking in” sensation of a traditional memory foam pillow, but none of the excessive heat or firmness that can be a problem with solid foam.

What makes the Coop Home Goods pillow particularly wonderful is that it’s adjustable. You can unzip the inner pillow cover to add or remove foam until the pillow is just the way you like it. It’s also hypoallergenic and dust-mite resistant, so you won’t wake up sniffly or congested. When it’s time to clean the pillow, no problem — Just toss it in your washing machine and dryer. We recommend that you add another pillow or a blanket to balance the load, along with a couple of clean tennis balls to help fluff up the foam.

Coop Home Goods’ proprietary shredded memory foam is CertiPUR-US certified, meaning it’s guaranteed to be free of chemicals and toxins you really don’t want to sleep with, such as formaldehyde, lead, mercury, ozone depleters, PBDEs, phthalates, and TCEP flame retardants. Manufactured in California, the pillow has a 30-day guarantee, so if you don’t love it, you can return it with no questions asked.

Sleep Like the Dead found that 89 percent of buyers love the Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Shredded Memory Foam Pillow. In fact, it’s the highest-rated memory foam pillow on the site. That matches Amazon’s numbers, where out of an astounding 12,200+ reviews, 85 percent give the pillow four or more stars.

Hundreds of buyers call this the best pillow they’ve ever owned, praise its breathability and adjustability, and love the way it supports their neck and head. As one pleased reviewer wrote, “It’s like sleeping on an adjustable cloud.” The most common negative comments were in regard to the pillow’s odor, which can be strong initially, but fades away within a day or two.

The Premium Adjustable Memory Foam Pillow has a polyester/bamboo cover that is cool and comfortable for sleep, and it's easily removed for washing. Inside, there’s an interlock knit cover to contain the foam. Both covers have zippers so you can access the foam for easy adjustment.

Pros: Adjustable loft, very supportive and comfortable, not too hot

Cons: Some initial odor, you have to let it expand from vacuum-sealed packaging

Buy the queen Coop Home Goods Premium Adjustable Memory Foam Pillow on Amazon for $49.99 and up (price varies)



The best down pillow

Why you'll love it: Down isn’t just for the birds — The Royal Hotel Goose Down Pillow is so feathery-soft, you’ll dream you’re sleeping in the clouds.

Some inferior down pillows are really stuffed mostly with feathers. That means you run the risk of being poked by a stray quill. Plus, feathers are not as soft and fluffy as down. The Royal Hotel Goose Down Pillow is filled with 100 percent goose down, which is much fluffier than less desirable duck down, so you’ll enjoy a luxuriously comfortable night of sleep.

Royal Hotel doesn’t skimp on the down, either. With a 750 fill power and 35-ounce fill weight, you’re getting lots of downy comfort in a very supportive pillow that isn’t too soft and isn’t too firm. Plus, the down is sanitized to remove allergens and bacteria, so you can enjoy the pillow even if you are usually allergic to feathers. The cover of the pillow is 100 percent cotton, with a 500-thread count, so it’s soft and smooth, but strong enough to contain the down.

Amazon buyers love this pillow, with 83 percent of the 400+ reviewers giving it four or more stars. Reviewers say, “these pillows are wonderfully full and hold their loft through the night,” “the best pillows ever,” and “very nice pillows, well-filled and they do not collapse under the weight of your head.” Many customers commented that the pillows were firmer than they expected, which might be good or bad depending on your preference.

Sleep Like the Dead also likes the Royal Hotel down pillows, reporting that 87 percent of surveyed customers were very pleased with their purchase.

For down pillows, the price is actually quite reasonable, but Royal Hotel only sells the pillows by the pair, making it a more expensive purchase overall.

Pros: High quality down, firm, comfortable support.

Cons: Only sold by the pair, may have a faint “feathery” smell at first

Buy the Royal Hotel Goose Down Pillow in standard/queen size on Amazon for $159.99 per set of two



The best buckwheat hull pillow

Why you'll love it: No matter how you like your pillow, the Zen Chi Buckwheat Hull Pillow delivers and it keeps you cool while you sleep.

Confession: I’ve been sleeping on the twin Zen Chi Buckwheat Hull Pillow for several years now. In fact, I’ve gone through two of them. I’ve tried a lot of pillows over the years — memory foam, shredded memory foam, latex, polyester, and several specialty fills as well — but I have never stuck with any other type of pillow for as long as the buckwheat hulls.

I’m a restless sleeper and love the way I can squish the buckwheat hulls out flat to sleep comfortably on my stomach, and then bunch them up a few minutes later when I flip over to my side. Plus, as a “hot sleeper,” this is the best fill I’ve found to avoid the dreaded sweaty head wake up.

Zen Chi uses 100 percent organically grown buckwheat to fill its pillows and 100 percent cotton for the case. There’s a zipper, so you can actually adjust the fill of the pillow. Add more hulls for a firmer, loftier pillow, or remove some if you prefer a softer, flatter feel. And even if you leave the pillow as is, the beauty of a buckwheat hull pillow is its supreme adjustability. Because you can mold the pillow any way you like it, you can support your head, neck, and upper body for the most comfortable sleep.

Amazon users are very enthusiastic about the pillow. Out of the 600+ reviews for the queen size, 76 percent give it four stars or more. Many buyers commented that it took a couple of nights to get used to the pillow’s feel, but once they did, they loved the support and adjustability. Buckwheat hulls are definitely not soft, but thanks to the pillow’s beanbag feel, they don’t feel uncomfortably hard, either. 

One reviewer wrote: “I thought it might be too hard on my ears, but it's not. I finally wake up without a crick in my neck, which was the case with every other pillow I've ever owned.” Many owners also praised the coolness of the pillow.

On the downside, the slight crinkly sound of the shifting hulls bothered some owners. This has never been an issue for me, however. Other customers complain about the pillow’s weight, and it is indeed very heavy. Still, the overall comfort outweighs the minor issues.

Pros: Stays cool, adjusts to any position, firm support

Cons: Heavy, noisy, some people find it too hard

Buy the queen Zen Chi Buckwheat Hull Pillow on Amazon for $39.95



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

Here's what it's like to eat at the oldest restaurant in the world

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Botin restaurant

Nestled in the heart of Madrid is one of Ernest Hemingway's favorite restaurants, Restaurante Sobrino de Botín.

First opened as an inn, the landmark eatery was founded in 1725 by French cook Jean Botín and his wife. It is the world's oldest restaurant, as officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records.Today, Botín is famed for its rustic Castilian cuisine, including succulent roast meats fired in an oven that's close to 300 years old. 

Keep scrolling to see what it's like to feast on whole suckling pig and delicious Spanish wine at the world's oldest restaurant.  

Brittany Fowler contributed reporting to an earlier version of this article.

SEE ALSO: The one-time office of a millionaire railroad executive has been reborn as one of New York's hottest bars

The restaurant's name was changed from Casa Botín to Sobrino de Botín ("nephew of Botín") when Mrs. Botín died and her nephew took over. It is now owned by the González family.



Botín has four floors and the air of a traditional Spanish tavern. There are three dining rooms: the bodega ("cellar"), the Castilla room, and the Felipe IV room.



The most famous dishes here are the cochinillo asado ("roast suckling pig") and the cordero asado ("roast lamb").



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

Dallas is getting a $600 million urban park that's more than 11 times as large as Central Park

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dallas park

Dallas, Texas, is getting a lot greener.

The city is building a 10,000-acre nature district— nearly 12 times as large as Manhattan's Central Park — along the Trinity River. Featuring plenty of walkways, sports fields, trees, and other flora, the site will become one of the largest urban parks in America.

In late 2016, Annette Simmons, the widow of the billionaire Harold Simmons, donated $50 million toward 285 acres of the ongoing project. Set to be complete by 2021 and costing $250 million, this portion will be called the Harold Simmons Park. Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings said he expects other private donations to fund the rest of the Harold Simmons Park, according to Dallas News.

It will become part of the larger nature district, called the Trinity River Project, that began in the early 2000s. As of June 2015, the city had spent over $609 million to build trails, a bridge, a horse park, a golf course, and a community center in a 6,200-acre forested area. In the future, there are also plans to build shops, restaurants, housing, and offices near the river.

Check out what the Harold Simmons Park portion, designed by Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, will look like:

SEE ALSO: Vancouver is becoming car-free faster than any US city

Spanning 285 acres, the Harold Simmons Park will be a part of Dallas' 10,000-acre nature district.



Here's what the land looks like today.



Visitors will be able to peer out on a pedestrian overpass. As seen below, a few roads will also run through the park.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

Hong Kong's 20-square-foot 'coffin homes' reveal the terrifying scope of a housing crisis

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hong kong coffin home

As housing prices continue to soar in Hong Kong, some residents are taking anything they can get — even if that means living in a so-called "coffin home."

At least 200,000 people live in these homes, which measure just 4'x6' and sit stacked one top of the other in cramped apartment buildings. Ladders line the halls to help people get into the upper-level units. The starting rent is around $180 a month.

Hong Kong's chief executive, Leung Chun-ying, has called this housing crisis "the gravest potential hazard" to society, as only 7% of the city's land is zoned for housing.

Here's what life is like inside.

SEE ALSO: A renegade photographer got inside this lawless Hong Kong community that was 119 times as dense as New York City

With so little land available to develop housing, Hong Kong has simply gotten denser. Downtown, one block of 24 coffin homes is located inside an apartment measuring 538 square feet.



The conditions all but force people to live in solitude. Families may live in the same building but occupy separate units due to a sheer lack of space, making life extremely difficult for the elderly, in particular.



Simon Wong, a 61-year-old resident, has just enough room to hang a few shirts and pairs of pants.



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The best dog collars you can buy

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Insider Picks_Buying Guides_Dog collar 4x3

The Insider Pick:

  • Every dog needs a good collar that will keep him comfy on long walks and hold his ID tags. Of all the dog collars out there, the Lupine Original Dog Collar is our top pick with its heavy-duty design, big range of colors, multiple sizes, and its lifetime guarantee that even covers chewing.

Picking out a dog collar may seem like a simple task, but there are many options to choose from, and the perfect collar for your dog will depend on several factors. For one thing, you need to think about your dog’s age and size, but you must also consider his disposition. Dogs that tend to do well on the leash can get by with a traditional nylon or leather collar, while dogs that tend to pull on the leash may require a halter or prong collar. Take some time to think about what purpose you need your dog’s collar to serve before you begin shopping.

Not only are there dozens of different types of dog collars, but there is an endless array of choices within each category. So, how do you choose the best collar for your dog? Your vet may be able to give you some insight and you can always find tips offered by other dog owners on the Internet. The American Kennel Club has some good tips on its site. Once you’ve decided which type of collar is appropriate, all you have to do is find the best one in that category.

Don’t worry – you won’t have to sift through pages and pages of reviews because we’ve done the hard work for you. We’ve read the reviews and done lots of research to determine our top six picks for different types of dog collars. 

To give your dog the best of everything, you can also check out our guide of the best dog beds, the best dog toys, the best dog food, and the best leashes for walking your pup.

Although the LupinePet Original Dog Collar is our top pick, for various reasons laid out in the slides below, you should also consider the Blueberry Classic Nylon Dog Collar, the Perri’s Padded Leather Dog Collar, the If It Barks Designer Martingale Collar, the PetSafe Gentle Leader Head Collar, and the Herm Sprenger Ultra-Plus Prong Training Collar.

SEE ALSO: The best leashes you can buy for your dog

The best dog collar overall

Why you'll love it: Few collars offer the durability or longevity of the Lupine Original Dog Collar, which is protected by a lifetime guarantee that even covers chewing.

Although there are many different types of specialty dog collars, most dogs just need an everyday collar you can clip a leash to and pop their tags on. The ideal everyday collar for a dog will be durable but comfortable with options for adjustment. It also wouldn’t hurt if it looked good. The Lupine Pet Original Dog Collar fits the bill, and it is the best one you can buy for everyday walks with your dog.

Made from jacquard woven nylon with strong bar-tack stitching and a welded steel D-ring, the Lupine Pet Original Dog Collar offers long-lasting durability. It comes in a wide range of colors and patterns. If the collar has a pattern, it's woven directly into the webbing, not sewn on, so it'll last longer. The Lupine Pet collar also features a side-release buckle for easy use. Top Review Pro names this collar its number-two pick in a top 10 list of dog collars and Prixie Pets speaks to the quality, durability, and aesthetic appeal of the collar.

Not only does the Lupine Pet Original Dog Collar come in a variety of colors and patterns to suit your dog’s personality, but the collar is also available in sizes ranging from 6 inches to 31 inches. What really sets this collar apart from the competition, however, is the fact that it comes with a lifetime guarantee that even covers damage from chewing. There aren’t many pet product companies that make such an offer, and it gives this collar an added degree of value.

If you’re looking for a durable dog collar for everyday use that also looks great and stands up to chewing, look no further than the Lupine Pet Original Dog Collar. Choose from 15 designer patterns and a variety of adjustable sizes, all affordably priced under $20.

Pros: Made from jacquard woven nylon for durability, bar-tack stitching for strength, welded steel D-ring, multiple sizes and colors/patterns available, side-release clasp for easy use, guaranteed for life (even against chewing), simple but fashionable design, can withstand multiple washings

Cons: Sizing may run small, may not accommodate very large or giant breeds

Buy the Lupine Pet Original Dog Collar on Amazon for $10.99 and up (price varies)



The best budget dog collar

Why you'll love it: Sweet and simple, the Blueberry Classic Nylon Dog Collar is an affordable dog collar that offers durability and aesthetic appeal.

While there are certainly luxury dog collars out there, many dog owners just want something that will get the job done without breaking the bank. Our top choice for budget-friendly dog collars is the Blueberry Classic Nylon Dog Collar. This collar features a classic design and it is adjustable so you can customize the fit to suit your dog.

Made from lightweight nylon with high-density webbing for durability, the Blueberry Classic Nylon Dog Collar is a budget-friendly option for dog owners. Though the clips and other hardware are made from eco-friendly plastic, the D-ring is chrome-plated metal for added strength. The collar won’t stretch like some collars do and tightening the collar correctly will keep it from slipping off to ensure that your dog can’t get his mouth around it to chew.

Though it may not be the most long-lasting dog collar on the market, the Blueberry Classic Nylon Dog Collar is a great option for the price. Top Review Pro and My Pet Needs That both include this collar on their top ten lists, confirming the fact that this collar may not have all the bells and whistles that some collars offer, but it has a simplicity that many dog owners find appealing. The Blueberry collar also has more than 850 reviews on Amazon, most of which are positive.

With four different sizes all priced under $10, the Blueberry Classic Nylon Dog Collar is a great choice for the budget-conscious dog owner. Choose from twelve different colors or buy one of each – you can also purchase a matching harness or leash.

Pros: Made from nylon with high-density webbing for durability, clips made from eco-friendly plastic, available in 4 sizes and 12 colors, metal D-ring is chrome-plated, adjustable sizing, priced under $10

Cons: May not withstand heavy chewing, may not accommodate dogs with necks larger than 26 inches, plastic clip may wear out with frequent use, color may fade over time, sizing may run large

Buy the Blueberry Classic Nylon Dog Collar on Amazon for $9.99 and up (price varies)



The best leather dog collar

Why you'll love it: Perri’s Padded Leather Dog Collar is an Amish-made collar that offers the ideal combination of function and aesthetic appeal.

If you’re in the market for a dog collar that looks great and is made to last, try Perri’s Padded Leather Dog Collar. Amish-made in the United States from real leather, this dog collar features a classic design merged with modern function. This collar is durable as well as comfortable and it comes in five different sizes from 16 to 31 inches, each with options for adjustability to ensure a secure fit for any dog.

Perri’s Padded Leather Dog Collar is made from high-quality leather right here in the United States. This collar features a beautiful leather exterior with a padded lambskin lining that is comfortable and gentle on your dog’s neck. The hardware is made from heavy-duty stainless steel and the whole thing is resistant to the elements and to normal wear and tear.

Named among Here Pup’s five best leather dog collars, Perri’s Padded Leather Dog Collar comes in black or brown leather with a number of color options for the padded lambskin lining. Sturdily but beautifully constructed, this leather collar gets rave reviews from Stop That Dog and Top Review Pro as well. Buyers on Amazon confirm the durability and aesthetic appeal of the collar, though some report issues with sizing and difficulties clipping the collar to a leash.

With five sizes and an array of colors to choose from, Perri’s Padded Leather Dog Collar is a beautifully and durable made leather dog collar. Safe and durable for everyday use, this collar is also very affordable with a price tag ranging from $19.95 to $32.50. To make this collar last, keep the leather clean and moisturized with a leather care product.

Pros: Beautifully made from real leather, padded lambskin lining for comfort, durable stainless steel hardware, resistant to wear and tear, available in a wide variety of colors, adjustable sizing

Cons: May not withstand chewing, sizing may be inconsistent, may be too heavy for very small dogs, some owners find it difficult to clip

Buy Perri’s Padded Leather Dog Collar on Amazon for $19.95 and up (price varies)



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How 24-year-old Palmer Luckey went from selling his VR startup to Facebook for $2 billion to building a virtual border wall for Trump

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Palmer Luckey Oculus Rift founder Touch controllers

Palmer Luckey isn't your average 24-year-old. 

Luckey is the founder of Oculus VR, the virtual reality company that sold to Facebook for $2 billion in 2014. A year after the sale, Forbes estimated his net worth to be $700 million.

Luckey was quickly put on the path to greatness as the face of Facebook's fledgling VR business. He made frequent appearances at press events and conferences on behalf of Facebook and Oculus.

But less than three years later, Luckey no longer works for the VR company he helped build in his parents' garage. Luckey left Facebook and Oculus in March, only a few months after it was revealed that he funded an anti-Hillary Clinton meme group.

Now Luckey is secretly building surveillance and defense technology to be used along country borders and military bases, according to a report by The New York Times. And he’s already met with White House chief strategist Steve Bannon to discuss deploying the tech along the US border with Mexico.

Here's how Luckey went from tech darling to Facebook outcast:

SEE ALSO: The fabulous life of Snap CEO Evan Spiegel

Luckey was born in Long Beach, California on September, 19, 1992. His father Donald was a car salesman and his mother, Julie, a stay-at-home mom who homeschooled Luckey and his three younger sisters.



As a child, Luckey loved to tinker with electronics, building his own computers or gaming devices.

Source: Popular Mechanics 



For a while, he became fascinated by lasers and burned a small blind-spot into one of his retinas while experimenting with them.

Source: Vanity Fair 



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Bieber, Coldplay, and Perry: Watch the emotional performances from Ariana Grande's star-studded Manchester benefit concert

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Coldplay One Love ConcertAriana Grande’s One Love Manchester benefit concert drew an average audience of 10.9 million viewers on Sunday night, making it the most watched British TV event of 2017.

The event took place less than two weeks after a suicide bomber killed 22 people at her Manchester Arena concert on May 22, and just a day after a terrorist attack in London killed seven people and injured 48.

The concert is raised more than £2 million ($2.6 million) for victims of the Manchester attack in just three hours, partly thanks to its star-studded lineup.

From Ariana Grande herself to Coldplay, The Black Eyed Peas, Robbie Williams, Justin Bieber, and Katy Perry, scroll down to watch all of the powerful and moving performances from the event — or to watch the concert in full.

Ariana Grande — 'One Last Time'

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Liam Gallagher and Coldplay — 'Live Forever'

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Coldplay — 'Fix You'

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6 reasons why more millennials aren't buying homes

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moving out

Millennial homeownership in the US is at a record low.

The age range of millennials — Bank of America Merrill Lynch economists used 25 to 34 — is usually prime time for purchasing a first family home. That demographic factor is one reason why some housing economists are bullish on demand.

However, the data has not yet caught up. 

"We believe the delay in homeownership is due to tighter credit standard and lifestyle changes, including delayed marriage and children," wrote Michelle Meyer, a US economist at BAML, in a recent note.

"We do not expect these factors to change in the medium term, keeping the homeownership rate low for young adults."

The following charts illustrate some of these factors. 

SEE ALSO: Bank of America's CEO says a pre-crisis idea could make it easier for millennials to buy homes

Housing is less affordable for millennials compared to the overall population.

The National Association of Realtors computes an affordability index by comparing the median home price to the median family income. That way, it gauges whether a typical family can qualify for a mortgage loan in a particular region. 

Although housing is affordable for millennials by this aggregate measure, it's lower than for the rest of the population whose work experience means that their incomes are likely higher. 

The big obstacle for young people is making a down payment, which the NAR assumes as 20%, Meyer said. 



The record level of student debt also makes it hard to take on a mortgage loan.

There was $1.44 trillion in outstanding student loans at the end of the first quarter, according to the Federal Reserve. 



It's not only about affordability.

The millennial homeownership rate has fallen at a faster rate than other age groups.

"Maybe there is something to the stories about Millennials preferring to spend money on avocado toast instead of their home?" 



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5 bad career choices that are never worth it

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face palm frustated upset angry man boss mad office

In your career there will be times when you realize you've made the wrong choice after it's too late.

Sometimes, if you can learn something from your mistake, you wind up better off than before.

But other choices are best to get right the first time around.

Lynn Taylor, a national workplace expert and the author of "Tame Your Terrible Office Tyrant: How to Manage Childish Boss Behavior and Thrive in Your Job," recently spoke with Business Insider about some professional decisions that we're all better off avoiding.

Here are five career decisions that could seriously mess up your professional progress:

SEE ALSO: 15 things college kids should do now to be successful in the future

1. You try too hard to strike out on your own

We've all met a lone wolf. In the workplace, they strive to receive acclaim independently, foregoing teamwork in favor of flying solo. Taylor calls this phenomenon "hero syndrome" and says it usually ends up backfiring.

"When you fly solo, you may get initial recognition or glory from management, but it will be fleeting — and you'll soon lose the very team support you need to succeed," she says.



2. You ignore your gut and chase money and prestige

Glory and cash are great and all, but things probably won't work out if you have a feeling that you won't get along with the folks at your new company.

"It's a well-known fact that people leave managers, not companies, yet many are willing to put aside 'that little voice' at the start, for the sake of what seems so alluring on paper," Taylor says.

"That's a short-sighted decision if you end up miserable or leaving prematurely," she continues. "Better to weigh all aspects of your existing and alternate jobs where the fit feels right, taking into consideration the human factor."



3. You quit a job without exploring your options

It's rarely a good idea to quit on the spot. You're better off approaching your manager first to attempt to leverage.

"Managers are usually shocked to hear that their best talent is walking … and often it's too late for them to do anything about it," Taylor says.

Managers are not always in tune with the individual aspirations of their team, so Taylor says the onus is on you to diplomatically be the squeaky wheel and ask for what you want.

"Very often your aspirations can benefit the company; you may have untapped skills, for instance," she says.



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10 practical iPhone accessories under $20

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

LamicallThe world of iPhone accessories is vast, and can range from basic to extravagant.

All of the products on this list cost under $20 and will help keep your iPhone charged and protected, and help keep you entertained.

For many people, myself included, our smartphone is the center of our digital world. Why not make the most of it?

SEE ALSO: 9 accessories that’ll help you get more out of your MacBook

A phone case

One of the biggest reasons people don't put an iPhone case on is because of the added weight and bulk, but with this case, that's not a problem. 

Heftier cases will provide more support, but if you're looking for the bare minimum to prevent scratching and some resistance if your phone falls, this is a good option.

Caseology Slim Clear Cushion Grip iPhone 7 Case, $11.99, available at Amazon

Caseology Slim Clear Cushion Grip iPhone 7 Plus Case, $11.99, available at Amazon



A portable battery

I've beaten this drum before, but for good reason. There's no reason not to have an external battery pack anymore; they're inexpensive, can fit easily in a pocket or purse, and will charge your phone in a pinch. 

Jackery Pop Slim 5000mAh External Batter Pack, $16.99, available at Amazon



A pair of Bluetooth earbuds

I love a good pair of headphones, but it's easier to wear a pair of earbuds if you're commuting or going on a trip. In this price range you shouldn't go in expecting an audiophile experience, but Monoprice's option seems to satisfy most people's needs.

The one thing to consider is that these earbuds only have a five-hour battery life, which is fine for a commute but not extended travel.

Monoprice Large-Driver Bluetooth Wireless Earbuds, $14.99, available at Amazon



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The 8 iPhone and iPad accessories I use every day

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

71rQRWI19XL._SL1500_I rely on my iPhone and iPad heavily, whether I'm in or out of the office. 

My iPad Pro has become my primary at-home computer, while my iPhone is always either in my pocket or on my desk. 

Both of them are powerful tools on their own, but I rely on different accessories to help me get the most out my iOS devices on a daily basis. 

DON'T MISS: I’ve written about a lot of great tech, but these are the gadgets I use every day

SEE ALSO: These are 6 of the best values in tech right now

A slim case

I've tried many iPhone cases, but my daily carry is Pad & Quill's Woodline Case. It's thin, light, and looks great. I never gotten compliments on my phone case before using this one, but it really is eye-catching.

Woodline Case for iPhone 7, $49.95, available at Pad & Quill

Woodline Case for iPhone 7 Plus, $49.95, available at Pad & Quill



A fast-charging adapter

Because the 12.9-inch iPad Pro supports faster charging, I opted to pick up this higher-power adapter. None of my other iOS devices can take advantage of this faster charging method yet, but I'd be willing to bet that the next iPhone will.

It's an investment that I can enjoy in the present and future, and it's become one of my must-haves.

Apple Apple 29W USB-C Power Adapter, $49, available at Amazon



A cable for that adapter

The only downside to using the adapter I just mentioned is that you'll need a USB-C-to-Lightning cable to use it. The cable comes in two sizes, but I suggest you grab the 2-meter version, which is what I did. It never hurts to have a longer cable around.

Apple USB-C to Lightning Cable (1M), $25.99, available at Best Buy

Apple USB-C to Lightning Cable (2M), $35.99, available at Best Buy



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Snap CEO Evan Spiegel and supermodel Miranda Kerr are honeymooning on a luxurious island in Fiji

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Evan Spiegel Miranda Kerr

Snap CEO Evan Spiegel and supermodel Miranda Kerr were married during an intimate ceremony with only 50 guests in attendance at their home last month. Now the newlyweds are honeymooning on the private island of Laucala in Fiji, according to Harper's Bazaar.

The resort is owned by Red Bull billionaire Dietrich Mateschitz and costs between $12,800 and $60,000 per night. There are 25 villas for guests to choose from, each with a private pool.

Below, see everything the resort and the island have to offer.

SEE ALSO: Stunning photos show what it's like to live at the top of New York City

Laucala Island is 3,500 acres of land surrounded by clear-water lagoons.



The island and resort are owned by Red Bull's billionaire CEO and cofounder, Dietrich Mateschitz. According to reports, Spiegel and Kerr are staying in Mateschitz' personal residence during their honeymoon.

Source: Harper's Bazaar, Business Insider



Pools are located around the island.

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Qataris are scrambling to stock up on money and food after Arab nations cut off ties with country

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Qatar

Qatari residents awoke on Monday to learn that several major Gulf State nations had cut all diplomatic ties with their country.

Along with several other countries in the Middle East, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain have all announced the decision to sever their relationship with Qatar due to its government's support of Islamist groups and Iran.

"The measures that have been taken by Saudi Arabia, the UAE and the other states are the equivalent of an economic blockade," Jean-Marc Rickli, head of global risks and resilience at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy, told Business Insider.

With rising uncertainty about how the sanctions will affect the country's food supplies, many Qataris have already started stocking up on supplies at their local supermarkets. Along with giving Qatari citizens 2 weeks to leave those countries and shutting down Qatar's only land border with Saudi Arabia, leaders of the Arab stateshave moved to isolate the country by land, sea, and air.

SEE ALSO: Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE sever ties to Qatar over 'terrorism'

The Arab world's decision to cut diplomatic ties with the oil-rich nation comes two weeks after US President Donald Trump called on the Arab countries to do more to fight extremism in the Middle East.

Egypt's state news agency announced that Qatar "threatens Arab national security and sows the seeds of strife and division within Arab societies according to a deliberate plan aimed at the unity and interests of the Arab nation."



Amid rising political and economic uncertainty, Qatari residents streamed to nearby supermarkets in order to stock up on food. Even though Qatar's foreign affairs ministry told people that the rift would not alter life for ordinary Qatari people, many chose to stock up on supplies of eggs, milk, water and rice, Doha News reports

“I’ve never seen anything like it – people have trolleys full of food and water," an observer at the supermarket told the outlet.

 



As a small country, Qatar is highly dependent on food brought from other parts of the world, Rickli said.

Now that other Gulf leaders have taken such a strong position, food prices could go up, foreign banks may stop operating, travel could become difficult and Qatar could become more and more isolated from the Arab world.

“These are issues that could affect your daily life," Rickli said.

 



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Apple debuted the newest version of MacOS on Monday — here's what's new

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Apple just debuted the next version of the operating system that runs on all Apple computers. It's called MacOS "High Sierra." 

Apple WWDC 2017 High Sierra

The software, known as MacOS, is getting some major updates. Here's what we know so far:

SEE ALSO: Why Apple will never abandon the Mac

1. It's called MacOS "High Sierra." (Really.)

Yes, seriously. And yes, Apple senior VP Craig Federighi immediately made a weed joke. Cool it. (His joke was that it's a "fully baked" operating system.) 



2. Safari is getting a major update.

There are a few changes coming to Safari:

-The new Safari, running in MacOS High Sierra, is being touted as "the world's fastest desktop browser."

-The new version of Safari has a service called "Autoplay Blocking," which stops media from auto-playing across the entire web. Say goodbye to that awful auto-play ad on your favorite website!

-There's also a new service to stop ads from tracking you across the web.



3. The Photos app is also getting major updates.

Here are all the tentpole changes:

-It's easier to find and organize your photos: Photos can recognize more faces, and is getting a bunch of categorization and filtration updates. 

- The information you input will automatically sync across all your Apple devices.

-Any imported photos will now appear, chronologically, in their own folder.

-Editing photos is getting major updates: Edits from Apple Photos will now seamlessly transition from Apple Photos to Photoshop and other editing applications (and vice versa). 



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The Ford GT sets a new standard for American supercars (F)

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Ford GT Drive

Ford is officially delivering the production versions of the its $400,000 Ford GT supercars. Ever since the GT's jaw-dropping debut at the 2015 Detroit auto show, anticipation for the car has been running high.

Fans saw what the racing version of the GT could do last year, when the car competed in North America and Europe and won the 2016 24 Hours of Le Mans in France, repeating history: it was 50 years to the day that the Ford GT40 went 1-2-3 at Le Mans, forging a legend.

That was a spectacular, against-the-odds triumph, with Ford once again dueling Ferrari (as well as Corvette, Aston Martin, and Porsche). It raised the expectations for the road-car to a fever pitch. Both vehicles were developed at the same time — that was the only way to get the race car on the track and satisfy the regulations to have a road car also in development.

Ford slowly teased us with glimpses of the GT after its 2015 debut. In 2016, a white GT appeared at the Detroit auto show. Then in 2017, a red GT was the centerpiece of Ford's booth in Detroit, sharing space with the battle-scarred Le Mans-winning racing car.

Earlier this year, Ford brought a GT to New York and we got to push the start button for the first time.

Then Ford invited us to drive the car, on the road and the race track, in Utah.

Here's what we thought:

SEE ALSO: http://www.businessinsider.com/ford-gt-pictures-2017-4

When the Ford GT was revealed at the 2015 Detroit auto show in January, it blew everybody's minds. With its elegant flying buttress wings, bold hood scoops, and razorlike edges, the supercar was breathtakingly beautiful. But its existence raised a question ...



Would Ford build a race car to make a run at repeating history? In 1966, the Ford GT40 went 1-2-3 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the toughest race in the world. Would Ford return to glory in France in 2016, 50 years later?



That question was answered a few months later when Ford pulled the cover off the racing version of the GT.



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The top 10 US cities where buying a home is worth the investment

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gilbert arizona

Home is where the heart is, so the saying goes. For homeowners, their home is also where they probably invested a large chunk of their money.

In some places homeownership has proved to be a worthwhile investment, as the home values skyrocket. But in other places, depressed home values and high property taxes may have made owning a home less worth it.

In order to determine the best cities for homeowners, we looked at four factors.

Specifically, we looked at the one-year median home value change, the six-year median home value change, the property crime rate per 100,000 residents and the average effective property tax rate. To get a better understanding of where we got the data and how we put it together, check out our data and methodology section below.

Key findings

  • The Centennial State— Colorado cities claimed two of the top three spots in our study of the best cities to be a homeowner. Denver and Aurora finished first and third, respectively.
  • Satellite cities— Many of the cities in our top 10 are satellite cities or suburbs of a larger city. Aurora, Fremont, Irvine, Arlington, Gilbert and Chandler all fit this profile.
  • Midwest tanks — Four out of the five cities that received the worst rankings are in the Midwest. The biggest culprit for this is declining home values. In Milwaukee, for example, median home values declined by over 15% from 2010 to 2015. And in Cleveland, that decline was close to 20% over the same time period.

Data and methodology

In order to find the best cities to be a homeowner, we gathered data on the 100 largest cities. We considered the following four metrics:

  • One-year median home value change. This is the percent change in the median home value from 2014 to 2015 and is meant to measure the short-term change in home values. Data comes from the U.S. Census Bureau's 2014 and 2015 5-Year American Community Surveys.
  • Six-year median home value change. This is the percent change in the median home value from 2010 to 2015. This metric measures the long-term change in home values. Data comes from the U.S. Census Bureau's 2010 and 2015 5-Year American Community Surveys.
  • Average effective property tax. Data comes from the U.S. Census Bureau's 5-Year American Community Survey.
  • Property crime rate per 100,000 residents. This is the number of property crimes per 100,000 residents. The property crime data comes from FBI's 2015 Uniform Crime Reporting Program and from local police departments and city websites.

We ranked each city across each of the four metrics, giving an equal weighting to each metric. We then averaged each ranking. Next, we applied a score to each city based on its average ranking. The city with the highest ranking received a score of 100 and the city with the lowest ranking received a score of 0.

SEE ALSO: The 25 best places to live where the average home costs less than $250,000

DON'T MISS: The 22 best places to live in America if you want to make a lot of money

9. TIE: Chandler, Arizona

Another suburb of Phoenix, Chandler is great for homeowners for many of the same reasons as Gilbert. Home values in Chandler rose 5.17% from 2014 to 2015. That's the 14th-largest increase in our study. Property taxes are also very affordable. Homeowners in Chandler pay an average effective property tax of only 0.67%, one of the lowest in the study.



9. TIE: Boston

With a population of 650,000, Boston is the second-largest city to crack out top 10. Homeowners here will appreciate the increasing home values and low property taxes, especially considering how expensive buying a home can be. The median home in 2015, for example, cost almost $400,000. For the Bostonians who managed to buy a home, they saw median values rise 3.72% from 2014 to 2015. That's the 30th-fastest rate in our study. Plus, if you own a home in Boston, you can expect to only have to pay an average effective property tax of 0.77% — a top 20 rate in our study.



8. Santa Ana, California

Hopefully if you bought your home in Santa Ana sometime around 2010, you have not sold it yet. The median home value in Santa Ana was down 13% over the period from 2010 to 2015. However, home values now look to be trending up. They rose 5.19% between 2014 and 2015. Santa Ana also offers homeowners an effective property tax rate around 0.7% and a low property crime rate of only 2,155 per 100,000 residents.



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10 awesome and weird iPhone accessories you probably need

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The Insider Picks team writes about stuff we think you'll like. Business Insider has affiliate partnerships so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Light KeyboardAs smartphones have become more ubiquitous, the number of things they can actually do has expanded.

There's a whole industry devoted to making add-ons for the computer in your pocket, and while a good chunk of them aren't exactly necessary for day-to-day life, they're often fun and creative enough to be worth it for the right niche of people.

No one device gets more of these weird little add-ons than the iPhone, so here are a few accessories for Apple's flagship device that we enjoy, even if they aren't totally practical.

This article was original published on 6/13/2016 and has been updated.

SEE ALSO: Bose’s latest Bluetooth headphones are one of the most well-rounded pairs you can buy

SEE ALSO: Amazon has slashed the prices of its newest Echo smart speaker and Kindle e-readers

External camera flash

If you find the flash of the current iPhone camera to be subpar, Concepter wants to help with the iBlazr 2. It connects to your phone via Bluetooth and integrates right into the default camera app on iOS — all you have to do is point and shoot.

You can adjust the iBlazr 2's light temperature and power on the device itself, and activate the flash by double tapping its back. Its creators say the light created by the iBlazr 2 is comparable to a "small but powerful flashlight." So while you shouldn't expect the same results you'd get in broad daylight, the iBlazr 2 will provide significantly more light than the standard iPhone camera's flash.

Concepter iBlazr 2 LED Wireless Flash, $49.99, available at Amazon



Attachable shutter button

If you're looking for a way to protect your phone and bring back memories from your old point-and-shoot camera days, consider the SNAP! 7 by bitplay. The case is made out of shock-absorbing material to help your iPhone from the perils of the laws of physics, and the physical shutter button works with the default camera app. The SNAP! 7 also has a grip, which should help cut down on your number of blurry photos.

bitplay SNAP! 7, $49.99, available at Amazon



Attachable camera lens

Speaking of interchangeable lenses, Loha Life's solution lets you take macro and wide-angle shots on the go with a level of detail that the iPhone's default shooter can't quite match. This is a newer entry in the add-on market, but it's got stellar reviews on Amazon, it comes with a lifetime warranty, and it works with Android phones too. 

LOHA Premium Camera Lens, $14.96, available at Amazon



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We tried Shake Shack's breakfast menu, and here's what we honestly thought

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shake shack breakfastThe INSIDER Summary

  • Shake Shack is giving fans delicious menu items that are changing the breakfast game. 
  • From savory egg sandwiches to sweets like coffee cake, the fast food chain is using the freshest ingredients for a quality meal. 
  • Taste testers say they're definitely a caloric splurge, so it's best to eat them in moderation. 

If the long line wrapped around Madison Square Park in New York City is any indication, people absolutely love Shake Shack’s burgers, fries, chicken sandwiches, and of course milkshakes. Enough to wait hours in line and brave the freezing (or scorching!) temps just to get their hands on a ShackBurger and brownie batter milkshake.

But the original Shake Shack is upping its fan-favorite menu by getting into the breakfast game, offering up a new line of breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and morning beverages including cold brew coffee and orange juice. These breakfasts have been available in select transit locations: JFK airport, Grand Central terminal, Fulton Center, and Penn Station in New York, Union Station in Washington, D.C., and the Dubai Airport since 2014, but will now be available at the Madison Square Park location starting on May 22. We Eat This, Not That! staffers got our hands on these new breakfast items— and they give McDonald’s and Dunkin’ Donuts a run for their money.

Sausage, egg 'n cheese

Each breakfast sandwich from Shake Shack is served on a toasted non-GMO potato bun, the same bun used for its signature burgers. Right away, it gives the sandwiches a fluffier texture, unlike some of the soggier sandwiches other fast food giants serve up for breakfast.

The sausage patty is pretty thick and well seasoned, giving the sandwich more flavor. The egg also looks like a real egg, compared to some of the other fast food breakfast eggs that look… questionable. Overall, the sandwich seems to have better quality ingredients and that reflects in the taste. But at 480 calories and 29 grams of fat a pop, it’s definitely a splurge.

Per sandwich: 480 calories, 29 g of fat (12 g saturated), 1440 mg sodium, 28 g carbs (3 g fiber, 7 g sugar), 28 g protein



Bacon, egg n' cheese

Right away, we noticed the savory aroma emitted from the sandwich. "It smells good. It smells like breakfast," Daniel, our Social Media Manager/professional taste tester said. So far, off to a good start.

The potato bun on the Bacon, Egg N’ Cheese stays soft, giving it a nice texture. It also makes the sandwich taste sweeter compared to a biscuit or English muffin. Shake Shack says they use "all-natural applewood smoked bacon," which looks are good, thick slices, not the thin, fatty slices some fast food joints try to pass off as bacon.

They also use cage-free eggs, which have consistency; not overcooked or undercooked, which makes a huge difference in the overall taste of the sandwich. And at just 370 calories and 24 grams of protein, it is definitely a better-for-you option than other bacon, egg, and cheese sandwiches on the market. To see how it stacks up against other fast food breakfasts, check out Every Fast Food Breakfast Item — Ranked.

Per sandwich: 370 calories, 18 g fat (8 g saturated), 1050 mg sodium, 26 g carbs (3 g fiber, 5 g sugar), 24 g protein



Apple turnover

The apple turnover looks comparable to a McDonald’s apple pie, except thicker and a little bigger. It’s made with a thick yet flaky dough, and one of our staffers said that dough was more on the savory side. Overall, the filling isn’t too sweet and doesn’t leave much of a mess — perfect if you’re enjoying your breakfast pastry on the go.

But with 46 grams of carbs and only 3 grams of fiber and 4 grams of protein, this is sure to spike your blood sugar only to come crashing down later — not a good idea if you’re looking to avoid a mid-morning slump.

Per turnover: 325 calories, 15 g fat (5 g saturated), 443 mg sodium, 46 g carbs (3 g fiber, 10 g sugar), 4 g protein



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26 signs you're a good boss — even if it doesn't feel like it

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work employee boss job office computer working career

It's not always easy being in charge.

Managing others comes with a ton of pressure. And when you're in a management position, it can be difficult to evaluate how you're doing.

Are you striking the right balance between commanding respect and appearing accessible? Are your employees responding well to your style of leadership? Are any of your actions breeding resentment in the office?

Being a good boss is crucial for your organization — a third of employees in one survey revealed that they'd quit a job because of a bad manager, as Business Insider previously reported.

But you can't exactly go wandering around the office begging people to tell you how you're doing. You're better off organizing employee satisfaction surveys and soliciting feedback from your direct reports.

You can also take a look at these other, more subtle signs that you're killing it as the boss:

SEE ALSO: Here are 4 things all great bosses do

You don't have obvious favorites

Playing favorites is a great way to torpedo office morale. If you make it clear that a certain person is the apple of your eye no matter what, then that'll just encourage your other employees to give up on trying to impress you.



You treat your employees like human beings

Unfortunately, some bosses seem to feel that hurling insults and abuse at people is an effective motivational technique. In most cases, this simply isn't true. If you value your employees as human beings, then you're already a huge step above many managers.



You're willing to try new things

Good bosses adopt certain methods because they're the best way of doing things — not because they've just fallen into certain habits. The best managers give their employees a little room to experiment and innovate.



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