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San Francisco housing is so out-of-control, this gorgeous home sold for $9.6 million — $1.6 million over the asking price

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san francisco housing market over asking price million dollars 1

San Francisco's crazy housing market just reached a new level.

A 6,350-square-foot home listed at $7.99 million sold for $9.6 million after spending a short nine days on the market. At 20 percent over asking price, it's the city's "highest overbid" so far this year, according to a spokesperson for the real estate firm that sold it.

But the transaction will likely be eclipsed by larger ones in the near future. With the amount of affordable housing increasingly dwindling, home listings selling over the asking price, as well as other anomalies like condemned homes selling for $1 million a pop, is the norm around here now.

This particular listing is for a single-family house at 2219 Scott St., 15 minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco's ritzy Pacific Heights neighborhood with the area's inviting Alta Plaza Park just yards away from the front steps.  

Take a look inside.

SEE ALSO: San Francisco's housing market is so out of control that this 385-square-foot studio home is selling for $500,000

The beige three-story Grand Victorian home was built in 1910, four years after the cataclysmic San Francisco earthquake.



The abode sports five bedrooms and five and a half baths, as well as a wine cellar, two laundry rooms, two family rooms and space to park three cars.



Its ceilings are carved into coffers and large windows throughout the main level afford views of the greenery that surrounds the property.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

This gorgeous new Tetris game is inspired by science to entrance you for hours

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The Tetris Effect 1

This fall, Tetris is coming to the PlayStation 4. But this isn't quite like any Tetris game you've ever played before. 

"Tetris Effect" looks like a new, trippy and breathtaking way to play one of the most popular video games of all time. It's inspired by a scientific phenomena of the same name — Tetris players reported seeing the game's iconic puzzle pieces, hours after playing. "Tetris Effect," the game, is designed to stimulate the same effect with gorgeous visuals.

The game won't be out until the fall, but expect to hear more about "Tetris Effect" at E3 over the next week. 

Take a look at our first glimpse of "Tetris Effect:"

 

 

SEE ALSO: Sonos just announced a $399 home theater soundbar, powered by Amazon’s Alexa — and it’s getting Apple’s Siri, too

First, let's talk about how this game got its name.

The Tetris Effect is the actual name for what happens to your brain after playing Tetris (or another game) for so long that your brain starts to see the game's images everywhere, even when you're not playing. 

In 2000, a Harvard study found that 60 percent of test subjects who had played at least seven hours of Tetris over the course of three days reported seeing falling blocks hours after they had stopped playing.

The Tetris Effect also manifests in a player dreaming about the game, or becoming more observant of the way that objects in real life — like bricks on the side of a building, or books on a shelf — fit together.



This new game plans to capitalize on the Tetris Effect, by playing up the game's hypnotic imagery and addictive nature.

The game will feature at least 30 mesmerizing stages, complete with stunning art, enchanting music, uniquely styled blocks, and even animated backgrounds that react to the player's actionsall designed to maximize the Tetris Effect.

The best part?

"Tetris Effect" will also support the PlayStation VR headset, so players can be fully immersed and surrounded by this acid trip of a game.



In a post to the official PlayStation blog today, the developer said every stage will have its own theme, and that "they’re all meant to make you feel something — to convey a mood, or even provoke an emotional response."

If the levels are anything like the game's trailer, it's safe to say we're in for an incredibly nostalgic (and a little emotional) ride. 



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

Stunning before-and-after satellite photos show how one of the most active volcanoes in Central America scorched the Earth near Guatemala

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  • At least 99 people have died after Volcan de Fuego, one of the most active volcanoes in Central America, erupted several times this week.
  • The village of San Miguel Los Lotes was hit particularly hard, with much of the village engulfed in mud, ash and debris.
  • Satellite images of the area around Volcan de Fuego' reveal how the damage looks from space.


At least 99 people have died after Volcan de Fuego, one of the most active volcanoes in Central America, erupted several times this week.

They were the volcano's most powerful eruptions in decades, sending lava pouring into nearby areas and shooting ash 6 miles into the sky. Thousands of people have fled to temporary shelters as mud and ash blanketed surrounding towns.

Satellite images of surrounding areas show how the damage wreaked by the volcano looks from space. The following before-and-after images were taken by DigitalGlobe’s WorldView-4 Earth-imaging satellite.

Volcan de Fuego is located 27 miles southwest of Guatemala City, about 10 miles from the popular tourist destination of Antigua Guatemala.

See the before-and-after photos which highlight the volcano's mass devastation below: 

SEE ALSO: At least 99 people have died following Guatemala volcano eruptions

San Miguel Los Lotes — February 5, 2018

The village of San Miguel Los Lotes was hit particularly hard, with much of the village engulfed in mud, ash and debris.



San Miguel Los Lotes — June 6, 2018

San Miguel los Lotes, along with the towns of El Rodeo and Alotenango, was the site of most casualties. Some who managed to escape have claimed ash and mud buried people alive.

Thick, gray ash hardened by rainfall made it difficult for rescue services to reach homes in the area.



La Reunion Golf Course — April 7, 2017

Just miles away from the volcano, La Reunion Golf Course has hosted the PGA Tour Latinoamerica event since 2014, with the most recent event held there in March.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

After selling out immediately, this startup's wildly popular under-$200 men's dress shoes are finally back in stock — here's what the hype is all about

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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.

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  • Thursday Boot Company, one of our favorite footwear startups, now makes premium, yet affordable men's dress shoes.
  • The collection includes five styles, each available in three colors — and they're all under $200.
  • The shoes were so popular when they originally released that they all sold out. Now, they're back in stock.
  • We tested out a few styles and just like the boots, they're a lot better than pairs that cost twice as much.

Thursday is the day of the week where you're still in work mode, but the weekend is close enough that anything could happen. Founded in late 2014 and inspired by that anticipatory fourth day of the work week, Thursday Boot Company set out to make footwear that's ready for anything that might come your way. The result is an impressive selection of boots for men and women that are stylish, comfortable, and most importantly, affordable.

Here at Insider Picks, we've had the opportunity to review many of the brand's styles, and they're consistently better than other boots that are twice as expensiveIn less than four years of business, the startup used its prowess in balancing expert craftsmanship and fair prices to expand beyond boots with accessories like bags, belts, and wallets. 

Back in January, I wrote about Thursday's super luxurious leather briefcase, naming it the best bang-for-your-buck briefcases for men. Now, the startup up is adding to its ever-growing catalog with another menswear staple — dress shoes.

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The Thursday Boot Co. Dress Shoe Collection includes five classic dress shoe styles — the blucher, cap-toe oxford, penny loafer, wing-tip oxford, and wholecut oxford. While all the styles can be found at virtually any dress shoe store, the quality and value is what makes these special. Thursday uses premium materials like Horween leather, WeatherSafe Suede, waxed laces, and every shoe is $190 or less. Comparable quality from other brands could be upwards of $500.

Thursday sent the Insider Picks team a few pairs from the new collection ahead of the launch in April, but with amazing value and timeless designs, they sold out before we could write a review let alone wear them for testing. After a little over a month, we've gotten the chance to get a feel for them and they're finally back in stock. They're still moving fast, so you'll want to shop now. You can find our thoughts on the pairs we tried as well as some other great styles below.

Shop the entire Thursday Boot Co. Dress Shoe Collection here.

Thursday Boot Co. Statesman Brown

$180, also available in Natural and Cognac Suede

Thursday Boots’ Scout Chukkas have been one of my go-to pairs of shoes since I first tried them over a year ago, so I shouldn’t be surprised at how much I like its new Statesman line. The suede and leather exterior give the shoes a modern, premium look, while the rubber outsoles and heel make every step feel and sound satisfying.

While I haven’t worn them out in the rain yet, I’m sure the shoes’ Weathersafe™ treatment will do a good job keeping them looking and feeling great even after some wear. My pair of Scouts survived many puddles and snow without falling apart or feeling uncomfortable.

Whether I was standing or walking around, this pair of shoes felt comfortable and looked timeless, and I like that they can be dressed down with jeans, but still pair well with a light pair of khakis. That versatility is the reason I’m planning on making the Statesman my go-to summer shoe. Whether I’m at a picnic on the weekend or formal occasion at work, they’ll help pull my look together. —Brandt Ranj, Insider Picks associate editor

 



Thursday Boot Co. Statesman Cognac Suede

$180, also available in Natural and Brown

Thursday Boots is a popular Insider Picks choice going back to before I joined the team, and my wife has had a pair of boots from the brand for about a year, so I was excited to finally try the company out for myself. With the Statesman shoes, I found that Thursday Boots lived up to the hype!

These shoes are currently my go-to dress shoe for everyday business casual and formal needs. They go equally well with a crisp pair of jeans, khakis, or a suit, and look elegant and stylish in a perfectly understated way.

The cork midsoles and rubber heels and outsoles make the shoes comfortable for a day with lots of walking or standing, and the inside of the Statesman molds to your feet to provide plenty of cushioning. —David Slotnick, Insider Picks senior reporter

 

 



Thursday Boot Co. Lincoln Natural

$170, also available in Black and Brown

This time last year I had no idea about Thursday Boot Company — and I'm a shoe fanatic. After testing the Duke Honey Suede Chelsea boot, I immediately became a fan of the brand. Needless to say, I now own three pairs of their boots because of their great style and quality. When they announced the launch of dress shoes, I was very excited to give them a try, and once again, they lived up to my expectations.

I went with the Lincoln Natural and they're absolutely amazing. The classic penny loafer styles uses premium Chromexcel Leather sourced from famous Chicago tannery Horween. I love this color because its a bit more unique than typical black or brown leather, and you can match it with Thursday accessories like the Natural Briefcase. The supple leather also makes them comfortable right out of the box with no break-in time. To get the perfect fit, I went a half size down from my true size.

Everything about this shoe, from the color to the silhouette, makes it very versatile. I can wear these with formally with dress socks and a suit, causally with jeans, or with no-show socks and shorts during the summer. —Amir Ismael, Insider Picks reporter



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

The $120 Fire TV Cube might be the smartest Echo device Amazon has ever made — here's what it can do (AMZN)

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Amazon Fire TV Cube

Amazon's latest Alexa-enabled device has arrived — and it might just be the most useful one yet.

The Amazon Fire TV Cube is essentially a Fire TV and an Amazon Echo rolled into one.

It can power your home entertainment system on and off, switch inputs on your TV, play or pause the show you're watching, and, of course, handle basic Alexa questions like, "What's the weather going to be like tomorrow?" 

In fact, Amazon expects the Fire TV Cube to be so powerful and capable, you'll rarely have to touch your TV remote. 

The Fire TV Cube is priced at $120 and is available for preorder starting Thursday.

Here's everything it can do:

SEE ALSO: What it's like to use Wyze Cam, the $20 home security camera trying to take on Amazon and Nest

The Fire TV Cube is just that — a cube. It comes in a shiny black finish and has the same light-up strip along the outer edge as an Amazon Echo.

Amazon said it chose the cube shape because the device is intended to blend into the rest of your home entertainment system — most TVs have squared-off edges and a shiny black finish, so the Fire TV Cube does, too. 

But the design has a practical purpose, too. The device doesn't need to be round like other Amazon Echo devices because it's unlikely to be in a 360-degree setting — most people have their TVs up against a wall. 



In fact, the Fire TV Cube looks just like an Amazon Echo from the top.



The Fire TV Cube has multiple inputs in the back, including HDMI and USB.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

12 things you can do to actually clear your acne, according to experts

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acne woman skin face

Despite what movies and TV shows had you believe, acne doesn’t go away the day you celebrate your 20th birthday, the woes of teenage breakouts suddenly behind you. In fact, adult acne is incredibly common and can spring up even if you never battled zits in your younger years.

If you’re in your twenties, thirties, or beyond, still battling persistent acne, you've probably tried a lot of different methods to clear it, but you may not have tried everything. 

INSIDER spoke with Dr. Kenneth Mark, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Peter Thomas Roth, the CEO and founder of Peter Thomas Roth Clinical Skin Care who fought acne and knows just how tricky it can be to treat. Both experts clued us in to the products, individual ingredients, and lifestyle adjustments that may help you clear your skin for good.

Look for these specific ingredients.

Whether you’re trying drugstore products or luxury beauty buys, both of our skincare gurus agree that there are a couple of go-to ingredients you should look out for, because they’re the best bang for your buck when it comes to treating pimples.

Salicylic acid is the single most key ingredient, as it unclogs pores, exfoliates, and has an anti-inflammatory effect on the oil glands,” said Dr. Mark. “The anti-inflammatory effect stems from salicylic acid being a derivative of aspirin, which is acetylsalicylic acid.”

Roth explains how salicylic acid works on zits, saying, “As a chemical exfoliant, salicylic acid penetrates and cleans out pores to clear up acne and blackheads while helping reduce the appearance of pore size, fine lines, wrinkles, acne marks and residual discoloration. The other benefit to salicylic acid is that it does not have the potential to lighten clothes, skin, sheets or hair, and it is safe to use both day and night.”

He calls it “the most effective ingredient for preventing and treating acne,” and it can be found in cleansers and other products designed for acne at a wide range of price points.

Aside from salicylic acid, both Roth and Dr. Mark recommend alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid, which, Roth says is a “chemical exfoliant that provides additional help with pores and breakouts while also reducing the look of dullness, uneven skin tone and texture, fine lines and wrinkles.”



But avoid these ones.

Unfortunately, for all the great products out there that can actually help clear your skin, there are just as many that might unknowingly be clogging pores, further aggravating breakouts and making things worse.

Both experts recommend avoiding products that are “comedogenic,” like petroleum jelly, which can clog your pores. Dr. Mark suggested avoiding ointments and oils, which can often be too thick for sensitive skin, and Roth recommends “seeking out products that are oil-free, fragrance-free and alcohol-free and to stay away from creams with heavy textures.”

Skincare involves plenty of trial and error, so don’t be afraid to ask your dermatologist for recommendations or testing out samples before committing to a skincare routine that works for you.



And never rule out unexpected hidden gems.

It smells like rotten eggs, but Roth explains that one hidden gem skincare secret is none other than sulfur, noting that this “mineral ingredient is amazing for clearing up, treating and preventing acne and blackheads,” adding that it’s great for “when a blemish arrives unexpectedly and you’re in need of urgent spot treating.”



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

The fabulous life of Chloe Green, the 27-year-old Topshop heiress who parties with Beyoncé and Paris Hilton and had a baby with the model who went viral for his police mugshot

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Jeremy Meeks and Chloe Green are seen in Los Angeles, CA.

  • Topshop heiress Chloe Green and "hot felon" Jeremy Meeks announced the birth of their child, Jayden Meeks-Green, on Thursday. 
  • Green is the daughter of billionaire Sir Phillip Green, a high-roller dubbed the "British Donald Trump" who is known for partying with celebrities like Kate Moss, Beyoncé, and Leonardo DiCaprio. 
  • The heiress has been making headlines for years, appearing on a reality show, launching a fashion line, and socializing with celebrities — including her ex-boyfriend Marc Anthony. 

Topshop heiress Chloe Green and Jeremy Meeks — best known as "the hot felon"— announced the birth of their child on Thursday. 

According to an Instagram post by Green, Jayden Meeks-Green was born on May 29. Jayden is the first child of the 27-year-old heiress and Meeks, the 34-year-old model who became famous after his mug shot went viral, though Meeks has a child from a previous relationship. 

Green is no stranger to fame. As the daughter of billionaire Sir Philip Green — the chairman of Topshop owner Arcadia — the heiress has lived her life in the spotlight. 

Here's a look inside Green's glamorous life:

SEE ALSO: Jared Kushner's brother is breaking his political silence following Trump's election — here's everything we know about the millionaire entrepreneur who's dating model Karlie Kloss

Green is just 27 years old but has been making headlines for years.

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Her parents, Phillip and Tina Green, are worth an estimated $4.9 billion.

The couple purchased the retail company Arcadia Group in 2002.

Source: Forbes



Sir Phillip Green is a controversial figure, dubbed by Vanity Fair the "British Donald Trump" for his "flamboyance and arrogance."

The businessman has been accused of dodging taxes and enriching himself by allowing the iconic retailer British Home Stores to fail. 

"In this era of austerity the British people seem to have had quite enough of the retailing tycoon, with his legal tax dodges, his complicated corporate structure, and his hyperinflated lifestyle, replete with a helicopter, a Gulfstream G550 jet, and three yachts — including one, Lionheart, which is 295 feet long and reportedly has a swimming pool, a helipad, and a beauty salon,"Vanity Fair reported in 2016. 



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

The US allows teens to start working at 14 — here's how to get a first job in every state

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  • The United States allows teenagers to get a job at 14.
  • Each state has different child labor laws, and the federal government has outlined only a few jobs that 14- or 15-year-olds can have. 

 

In the United States, a teenager is legally allowed to get a job at age 14.

Jobs permitted for 14-year-olds and older teenagers by the federal government include office and clerical work, cooking with an electric or gas grill (no open flames), cashiering, price marking, and bagging.

But every state has different laws on how to get a job at 14, and what it takes to get on a payroll. In some states, you just need documents to prove your age. In others, you'll need a form from your school.

Here's what it takes to take a job at 14 in every state:

SEE ALSO: Teenagers are less likely to work today than any generation before them, and some say school is to blame

Alabama

Teens need a work permit that is completed by a school official.

Download the form here.



Alaska

Young workers need a work permit that is signed by the parents.

Download the form here.



Arizona

Minors don't need a work permit in Arizona.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

We shopped at Forever 21 and H&M to see which was a better fast-fashion store, and the winner was clear for a key reason

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  • Forever 21 and H&M are two of the biggest fast-fashion retailers. 
  • As a private company, Forever 21 doesn't release its sales numbers, but the New York Post reported in 2016 that the chain was struggling to pay its bills. 
  • H&M has had its own struggles lately. In the first quarter of 2018, its operating profit decreased 62%.
  • The stores are both very trendy and offer similar-quality products for similar prices, but after visiting both, we found there was a clear winner between the two.


Forever 21 and H&M are giants in the world of fast fashion.

Forever 21 doesn't release its sales numbers because it's a private company, but it started showing signs of trouble in 2016 when the New York Post reported that it was struggling to pay the bills. It also closed two of its biggest California stores. In 2017, the brand shifted focus towards its concept stores. It announced plans to open 70 more locations of its discount-store chain, F21 Red, in addition to launching its beauty concept, Riley Rose.  

Unlike competitor Forever 21, H&M is a public company that releases its sales numbers. In the first quarter of 2018, operating profit at H&M decreased 62% following another massive sales drop in the fourth quarter of 2017. Business Insider's Mary Hanbury reported that analysts believe H&M has a brand issue because it's not the cheapest store, and its clothes are not the best quality nor the most fashionable.

We found this held true during a recent visit to both stores. While the styles were very trendy, they varied widely in quality and price. Business Insider reported earlier this year that thrift stores often end up cluttered with fast-fashion apparel that is inexpensive and goes out of style quickly, which certainly held true for a lot of the styles available at Forever 21 and H&M.

Here's how the shopping experience compared at the two stores: 

SEE ALSO: We shopped at TJ Maxx and Ross to see which was a better discount store — and the winner was clear

The first store I visited was H&M in New York City's Financial District.



The store had fluorescent lights and huge windows, making it a bright and airy space to shop in. At the front of the store were some basic casual and business-casual staples like t-shirts, blazers, and sundresses.



This was one of the nicest H&M stores I've been to. Almost everything was spotlessly clean and nicely displayed. Prices were generally below $50.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

All the details of Quentin Tarantino's new movie, which stars Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Margot Robbie

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Quentin Tarantino announced earlier this year that Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio would be starring in his upcoming ninth film, "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood," which partly involves the Manson Family murders.

Last month, Tarantino and DiCaprio teased a few details about the film at the Las Vegas industry event CinemaCon, and Margot Robbie confirmed to IndieWire that she was playing the role of actor Sharon Tate in the film.

Since then, a strong supporting cast has steadily filled in. A source close to the production told IndieWire this week that Damian Lewis, Dakota Fanning, and Emile Hirsch will be joining the film. 

Pitt worked with Tarantino on 2009's "Inglorious Basterds," and DiCaprio appeared in 2013's "Django Unchained." Longtime Tarantino collaborators Tim Roth and Michael Madsen are also appearing in the film. 

"Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" is set for release August 9, 2019.

Here's everything we know about Tarantino's upcoming ninth film:

SEE ALSO: Quentin Tarantino's next film will be released by Sony following the Harvey Weinstein scandal

DON'T MISS: Charles Manson was sentenced to 9 life sentences for orchestrating 7 gruesome murders with his cult 'family' — here's his life story

The film takes place in "Los Angeles in 1969, at the height of hippy Hollywood."

Tarantino described "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" in a statement last month, calling it, "a story that takes place in Los Angeles in 1969, at the height of hippy Hollywood. The two lead characters are Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio), former star of a Western TV series, and his longtime stunt double Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt). Both are struggling to make it in a Hollywood they don't recognize anymore. But Rick has a very famous next-door neighbor ... Sharon Tate."

In July 2017, early reports of the film described its script as focused on the murder of actress Sharon Tate by Charles Manson's followers.

While Tarantino's most recent statement mentions Sharon Tate as a player in the movie, Tarantino previously said that the film would not center on Manson but on the year 1969.

At CinemaCon on Monday, Tarantino did not add much to the description of the plot, calling the project "very hush-hush and top secret."



It has been five years in the making.

Tarantino said last month that he had been working on the script for the film for half a decade.

"I've been working on this script for five years, as well as living in Los Angeles County most of my life, including in 1969, when I was 7 years old," he said. "I'm very excited to tell this story of an LA and a Hollywood that don't exist anymore. And I couldn't be happier about the dynamic teaming of DiCaprio and Pitt as Rick and Cliff."



It's a "'Pulp Fiction'-esque movie."

Deadline reported in January that DiCaprio would play an "aging actor" in a "'Pulp Fiction'-esque movie.""Pulp Fiction," Tarantino's 1994 classic, told a collection of interconnected stories.

On Monday, Tarantino confirmed this sentiment by saying that "Once Upon A Time In Hollywood" is "probably the closest to 'Pulp Fiction' that I have done."



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

We climbed into the cockpit of a V-22 Osprey — the US military tiltrotor aircraft that takes troops into combat

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V-22 Osprey

One of the aircraft that the US Navy showed off at Fleet Week in New York City in May was the V-22 Osprey, the US Marine Corps' main assault support aircraft. 

And we got a chance to climb in the cargo bay and cockpit.

The Osprey is a tiltrotor aircraft that blends "the vertical flight capability of a helicopter with the speed, range, altitude and endurance of an airplane,"according to Bell Boeing, the V-22's manufacturer. "This allows more effective mission execution and realization of missions previously unachievable in one aircraft."

The Corps is even considering turning the Osprey into a gunship by equipping it with rockets, guns, and missiles.

Check it out below:

SEE ALSO: Here are all the standard issue weapons given to US Marines

Manufactured by Bell Boeing, the Osprey first flew in 1989 and has since been deployed by the Marines in 2007 and the Air Force in 2009 in both combat and rescue operations.

Source: Business Insider



It's about 63 feet long, about 84 feet wide when the rotors are turning, and about 22 feet tall when the engines are vertical.

Source: US Navy



It's powered by two pivoting Rolls-Royce/Allison AE1107C engines, giving the Osprey to a top speed of about 322 mph and a maximum altitude of 25,000 feet.

The rotors are also about 38 feet in diameter. 

Source: US Navy



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

The 5 best places to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks at Disney World

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Everyone knows that a crucial part of any Walt Disney World vacation is watching the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom. Their current evening spectacular, Happily Ever After, is a sensational experience, featuring stunning visuals and awe-inspiring special effects, all set to music from many beloved Disney films.  

But where is the best place to watch this fantastic spectacle in the sky? Here are a couple of my favorite viewing locations in and around the Magic Kingdom.

1. The Hub

When you think of Magic Kingdom fireworks, chances are you’re thinking of the views from the central plaza of the Magic Kingdom  — more commonly referred to as “The Hub.”

The Hub provides guests with the most picturesque views of the fireworks while also featuring Cinderella Castle and the famous Partners statue. The Hub puts you in the center of all the action, giving you the opportunity to experience every single special effect including seeing Tinker Bell fly.

The Hub is definitely one of the most popular options among guests, meaning it will be one of the most crowded viewing locations. Guests start waiting hours in advance just to score an ideal spot, and chances are that it will be packed by the start of the show.

If you are all about getting an ideal photo of Cinderella’s Castle set against a background of sparkling and dazzling fireworks, you may want to brave the crowds for this.

 



2. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

If you travel across from the Seven Seas Lagoon (or three stops on the monorail), you will find my personal favorite place to view the Magic Kingdom fireworks, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.

The resort has a beautiful sandy beach alongside the lagoon to watch the fireworks, as well as several other viewing locations including the outdoor portion of their fan-favorite bar, Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, and their delicious dining experience, Ohana.

Although you will not be able to see the projections or many of the special effects, you do have a perfect view of the fireworks themselves. But most importantly, you avoid the chaos of the crowds. That being said, if you are on a date or want to make this nighttime spectacular a little more romantic, this location is absolutely perfect.

Additionally, if you and your party are planning to stay at the Polynesian Village Resort, many of their rooms feature a theme park view, allowing you a more private viewing.



3. Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Another perfect resort to catch the fireworks is Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Located in walking distance alongside the Magic Kingdom Park, the resort provides unique yet extraordinary views.

The Contemporary Resort is home to one of the most unique viewing experiences located at the California Grill. Not only does this delicious signature dining experience have exquisite views overlooking the Magic Kingdom from inside the restaurant, but they also have an outdoor viewing area that’s truly special.

Similarly to the Polynesian Village Resort, you won’t be able to see the special effects as well as from inside the park, but you do get a great view of the fireworks themselves.

The Contemporary Resort also hosts many rooms with theme park views, so you can also have a private viewing experience.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

All the TV shows coming in summer 2018 — and whether you should watch them

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GLOW_201_Unit_03215RIf you're tired of superhero movies, there's plenty of summer TV to keep you busy — and on your couch. 

We put together a list of all the notable new and returning shows coming this summer, and let you know whether or not you should watch them.

The lineup for summer 2018 is promising, but not overwhelming. The only sad thing about it is that there's no "Game of Thrones," which dominated TV last summer. 

Some returning favorites are starting new seasons including TV Land's "Younger" and Netflix's "Glow.""Nashville" will air is final episodes on CMT, and Katherine Heigl will attempt to make people forget Meghan Markle isn't on USA's "Suits" anymore, because she's pretty busy with other things now. 

There are also a few new shows to look forward to this summer, including HBO's "Sharp Objects" starring Amy Adams, and Amazon's "Jack Ryan" series starring John Krasinski, who became an action star when we weren't paying attention. 

Here are all of the notable shows premiering in summer 2018, and whether or not you should watch them:

SEE ALSO: Netflix shared a list of 15 great movies with strong female leads you can stream right now

"Pose" (FX) — premiered June 3

Should you watch it? Yes! Ryan Murphy's dance/musical show depicts an incredibly diverse New York City in the 80s - from ball dance culture to the finance world.



"Succession" (HBO) — premiered June 3

Should you watch it? Only if you're not easily bored. This show is well cast, but it's a bit of a slog. 



"Dietland" (AMC) — premiered June 4

Should you watch it? This show is funny and clever but it's also a meaningful story about a woman struggling with her self image. 



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The top 25 companies where American business students dream of working

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Google employees

  • Google, Disney, and Amazon are the companies where business students most want to work.
  • That's according to research firm Universum, which asked over 20,000 undergraduate business students to pick the most desirable employer.
  • Google is the top pick for the fourth consecutive year.


Google is at the top of the list yet again.

The tech giant consistently performs well on Glassdoor's annual rankings of the top workplaces in America. It pays well, too. So it's no surprise that US undergraduate business students find the search giant to be the most desirable employer.

Universum, a global research and advisory firm, surveyed 20,879 undergraduates studying business at 352 different universities in the US. The business students were asked to choose the companies and organizations where they'd most like to work. 

Google, which specializes in online advertising technologies, cloud computing, software, and search, landed at the top of the list for a fourth consecutive year. Apple, Netflix, Morgan Stanley, and the FBI also made an appearance on the list.

Here are the top 25 institutions where business students want to work:

SEE ALSO: The top 50 dream companies for business students around the world

25. National Geographic

The National Geographic Society is a non-profit educational institution that owns a TV channel and a magazine.



24. Bank of America Merrill Lynch

Bank of America's corporate and investment banking division was first created when Bank of America acquired Merrill Lynch in 2009.



23. The Coca-Cola Company

The flagship Coca-Cola product of this Atlanta-based beverage corporation was first invented in 1886.



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I tried out an 'aging suit' that mimics what it feels like to be 80-years-old — here's what it was like

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Bayer aging suit

In the corner of a booth at the BIO International Convention in Boston sat a mysterious suit with an odd helmet. 

The booth in question belonged to Bayer, the German drugmaker and chemical giant. And the suit wasn't for a virtual reality demo or for show — it was to simulate how it might feel to be 80 years old.

The idea behind the suit was to give perspective on the growing aging population, and the challenges that come with that, such as a higher risk of heart disease.

As a fit (though potentially over-caffeinated) 25-year-old, I figured it might be worth taking a spin in the "aging" suit to see how it made me feel.

SEE ALSO: I've taken AncestryDNA, 23andMe, and National Geographic genetics tests — here's how to choose one to try

The suit was bulky and weighted to give me the impression of what it'd be like to carry around my mortal coil into old age.



The suit also came with a helmet, which darkened my field of vision. I also took my glasses off, which added to the confusion. It took a team of helpers to get me suited up.



At some point, a crowd had gathered to figure out why I was wearing the set-up, adding to how vulnerable I felt. On my hands, the helpers put gloves that split up my ring and pinky from my middle and pointer fingers, so I was stuck in a Vulcan salute.



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The best beach towels 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.

best beach towel

The Insider Pick:

  • With a great beach towel, you can claim your patch of the sand, dry off after a dip, and even change your clothes right there in public.

  • The Ombre Octopus Oversized Beach Towel is our top pick because it's large, comfortable, and affordable, too.

Beach towels are different from bath towels primarily because of their larger size, but many are also thicker, more durable, and more decorative than bath towels, too. These decorations are partially just for fun, but they can also make it easier for you to spot your little outpost there on the sand after you've gone for a swim or to get a shave ice or margarita.

So when it comes to choosing the best beach towel, size is definitely the first consideration. Will you use it for tanning? Then you need one that's long enough for you to lie flat. Will two people share it? Then width matters as much as length. And so on.

Next consider the materials, as there is always a trade-off when you opt for one fabric or blend over another. Cotton is soft and comfortable when dry, for example, but it stays wet for much longer than microfiber materials. On the other hand, microfiber towels rarely feel as luxuriantly inviting as their cotton cousins. We've included towels from across the size, price, and style spectrum, so you're sure to find one you like. 

Here are the best beach towels you can buy:

Read on in the slides below to check out our top picks.

The best beach towel overall

Why you'll love it: The Ombre Octopus Oversized Beach Towel is almost as large as a twin-sized bed, providing plenty of space for you to stretch out and ample material for drying off.

The first thing you'll notice about this beach towel is that it's decorated with a large octopus. That makes it easy to spot from afar and adds some marine-themed charm that kids and adults will appreciate. The second thing you'll notice is that it's huge. The towel is also thick, soft, and entirely inviting.

Laid out on the sand or on a lounge chair, the Ombre Octopus Oversized Beach Towel creates your own personal 36-by-72-inch relaxation spot. It offers plenty of room for your person, your book or magazine, a phone, a snack, and so on. Thanks to the two-ply thickness of the woven jacquard cotton fabric, you can even use this towel on beaches that are on the rocky side, or you can lay it out on grass during a picnic or concert.

When it comes to drying off, this towel can soak up every drop clinging to your body. Just note that being 100% cotton, it will stay damp for a while.

Bed Bath & Beyond shoppers are really enthusiastic in their praise of the Ombre Octopus Oversized Towel, with one customer calling it a "great beach towel... because it's huge" while another called it "nice and thick" and said "the colors are so pretty."

Pros: Extra large size, soft and thick, charming and easily identified decorations

Cons: Stays damp longer than other fabric blends

Buy the Ombre Octopus Oversized Beach Towel at Bed Bath & Beyond for $15



The best low-cost beach towel

Why you'll love them: The super affordable AmazonBasics Beach Towels are soft and absorbent and have a classy cabana stripe pattern.

If you can beat the price of $19 for two 100% ring-spun cotton beach towels that are actually well made and comfortable ... please let me know where you shop. The AmazonBasics Beach Towels come in four different colors of cabana striping, and they look great on a pool chair, on the sand, or hanging in a bathroom, too.

At 30 by 60 inches, these towels are certainly large enough to be used on the beach or by the pool, but they are also a great size for use after a shower or bath. I've used AmazonBasics towels and found them more than adequate for lounging around and for drying off.

Unlike many beach towels, these don't have a top and a bottom. They are equally soft and fluffy on both sides and equally absorbent from either side as well. That means more comfort and more drying potential. Also, if one side of the towel gets dirty, you can just flip the thing over. And when it comes time to wash your AmazonBasics Beach Towels, go ahead and toss them in the washing machine and then in the dryer.

There are hundreds of AmazonBasics Beach Towel reviews posted on Amazon, and most buyers are thrilled with their purchases. A buyer named Brian calls them "pleasantly styled" and "very absorbent and soft."

In their review, the product testers from The Spruce noted the "low price and good materials" used to make these towels. 

Pros: Great low price, double-sided design, elegantly simple patterns

Cons: Smaller than other beach towels

Buy a 2-Pack of AmazonBasics Beach Towels on Amazon for $19



The best two person beach towel

Why you'll love it: Not only is the Pendleton Oversized Jacquard Towel for Two large enough to fit two people, it's handsome enough to do so in style.

It's a tough call as to which aspect of the striking Pendelton Oversized Jacquard Towel is the biggest selling point. Is it the gorgeous, colorful patterns that look more like artwork than linens? Or is it the fact that the towel measures 62 by 70 inches and can easily accommodate two full-grown adults or a bevy of kids? Or maybe it's the smooth, comfortable sheared top that's perfect for relaxing paired with the looped pattern on the underside that provides excellent absorption.

Or you can just take all of those points into consideration because they are the key features of this large, stylish Pendleton Oversized Jacquard Towel. There's one more feature you'll have to note, and unfortunately, it's the high price. At about $90, this is far and away the priciest towel on our list. But it's also the largest, and it's certainly an eye-catcher.

Price notwithstanding, the buyer reviews of the Pendleton Oversized Jacquard Towel for Two are glowing. An owner named Chris praises the "awesome towel and design" and notes its size and softness, while a buyer called Connie say it is "so beautiful."

Pros: Extra large, gorgeous colors and pattern, soft and cozy

Cons: Very expensive

Buy the Pendleton Oversized Jacquard Towel for Two on Amazon for $90



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Trump's 35-year war with the NFL has spanned the USFL, Bon Jovi, Deflategate, and anthems — and for the first time he is winning

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Donald Trump

Despite the NFL's attempt to appease President Donald Trump, their worst nightmare became a reality when he made it clear that he was not going to take his foot off their neck.

When Trump canceled the Philadelphia Eagles' White House Super Bowl celebration and called out the league for its new national anthem policy, it was just the latest salvo in a 35-year war with the NFL, his oldest rival.

Trump has battled the NFL over the USFL, players, a coach, ownership of a team, safety issues, Deflategate, and social injustice protests. The difference now is that for the first time Trump is winning, and the NFL is in trouble.

Here's a look inside Trump's first war, The Pigskin War:

In 1983, the then-37-year-old Trump made his first foray into the world of professional football when he purchased the New Jersey Generals of the USFL after their first season of existence. It was here where Trump would fight the first battles of his brewing war with the NFL.



It was estimated at the time that Trump paid $8-9 million for the team, or about $20-22 million in today's dollars.

Source: New York Times



According to Trump at the time, he passed on several opportunities to buy NFL clubs, but he did not believe they had good growth potential.

Source: New York Times



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The Queen wears bright outfits for an important reason — here are her most vibrant looks

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queen elizabeth II

Queen Elizabeth II can often be spotted in vibrant coats and matching hats. Wearing hats to formal occasions is part of royal protocol, but wearing bright colors is a specialty of the Queen's for a reason. According to her daughter-in-law Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, her penchant for vivid outfits is more than just a fashion statement.

"She needs to stand out for people to be able to say 'I saw the Queen'," she said in the Smithsonian Channel documentary "The Queen at 90.""Don't forget that when she turns up somewhere, the crowds are two, three, four, 10, 15 deep, and someone wants to be able to say they saw a bit of the Queen's hat as she went past."

Here are some of Her Majesty's most dazzling looks that can be spotted from afar.

The Queen wears neon colors to stand out.



Her matching hats make a statement, too.



She wore a festive bright orange to church on Christmas Day this past year.



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The 15 best cities in the US to find jobs that pay $100,000 or more

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san francisco


Many people dream of having a job that pays six-figures one day. But the chance of that happening partly depends on the city you live in.

Ladders, a career site for six-figure jobs, recently revealed the 15 best cities with the most jobs that pay $100,000 or more based on the job listings on their website.

But having a high-paying job also depends on what industry you work in. It may come as no surprise that in every city on Ladders' list, the technology industry had the largest percentage of $100,000 jobs. After all, technology pays just as well, if not better, than the standard high-paying professions of a doctor or lawyer when considering the student loan debt the latter two acquire.

From Chicago to San Francisco, take a look below for the top cities for job openings with a six-figure salary, current as of June 6.

SEE ALSO: The top 15 cities around the world where people get paid more to work less

DON'T MISS: The story of an orthodontist making 6 figures with $1 million in student-loan debt shows why doctors and lawyers are no longer the richest people you know

15. Phoenix, Arizona

Jobs available: 4,061



14. Baltimore, Maryland

Jobs available: 4,381



13. Houston, Texas

Jobs available: 4,682



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What the British royal family looked like the year you were born

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kate middleton royal family queen

In a changing world, few things have remained as constant as the British royal family.

People all over the world follow Queen Elizabeth II and her large family of kids and grandkids for their dose of inspiration, fashion, and even scandals throughout the years. Acting as a bellwether, the royal family is also a way of tracking the changing times.

Here is what everybody's favorite royals were doing on the year you were born:

SEE ALSO: Here's what the royal family actually does every day

DON'T MISS: Queen Elizabeth has been in power so long, 4 out of 5 UK residents weren't alive when she ascended the throne

1950: Queen Elizabeth II was a young princess in line to take over the throne after her father, King George VI.

Source: Britroyals.com



1951: Queen Elizabeth II had married Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark and given birth to two children, Charles and Anne.

Source: Britroyals.com



1952: After several years of ill health, King George VI died in February 1952. Princess Elizabeth was on a royal tour of Kenya when she found out.

Source: Britroyals.com



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