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We tried the world's first robot-made burger restaurant that's backed by Google's parent company — here's the verdict

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creator robot burger momentum machines 15

You could say I'm a connoisseur of California burgers.

I've reviewed burger chains from In-N-Out to Super Duper Burgers, as well as the meatless Impossible Burger at locations around the San Francisco Bay Area.

There's one burger joint I've been anxiously waiting to try for years, and it's finally opening in San Francisco. Creator, formerly known as Momentum Machines, serves a $6 burger that is prepped, cooked, and assembled with no human help.

A 14-foot-long robot in the center of the restaurant uses an array of sensors and computers to make approximately 130 burgers an hour. Efficient. But tasty?

I set out into San Francisco's SoMa neighborhood to try Creator for myself.

SEE ALSO: We put In-N-Out and Five Guys to the test in a battle of the burger chains — and the winner surprised us

Creator is the world's first robot-made burger joint.



On a weekday afternoon during the company's soft opening, the place was packed with tech bros and gals munching down.



Around the corner from the dining area is the inhuman star chef.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

The best down pillows 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 down pillow

The Insider Pick:

  • Everyone wants a comfortable pillow that gives you the head and neck support you need. Down pillows are popular for their softness, luxurious feel, and versatility.

  • The Pacific Coast Double Down Around King Pillow uses an inner core of duck feathers for support and an outer layer of duck down for comfort. The pillow-in-pillow design is great for all kinds of sleepers.

We can all look at certain products and know we’re getting good quality. Other products are a little tougher to judge at first glance, such as down pillows. But we still all know when the down pillow we’re using is well made because we wake up minus headaches, neckaches, and nasal congestion. 

Down pillows are popular for their comfort and versatility. People who select a down pillow typically are looking for softness and cushioning versus lots of structure, though you can find firm down pillows. Another advantage of a down pillow is that you can adjust the positioning of the fill in the pillow to give you the exact support you need on a particular night.

If you’re afraid of down pillows because of concerns over allergies, WebMD says the allergy risks of a down pillow are no different than other pillow fill materials. Hypoallergenic down pillows have been thoroughly cleaned during the manufacturing process, further reducing the concern over allergies.

Here are the most common types of down in pillows:

  • Duck down is the least expensive type of down pillow. Duck down gives you a nice cushioning, but it does sometimes have an odor to it.
  • Eider down is easily the most expensive style of down used in pillows, as it comes exclusively from the eider duck. It’s incredibly soft and comfortable, but you’ll have to hunt quite a bit to find this type of pillow.
  • Goose down costs more than duck down, but it gives you a little bit higher quality. Goose down tends to retain heat better than duck down, too, which is nice for cold nights.

Down is a protective covering on a bird that lies below the feathers. Down clusters used in pillows actually don’t look much like feathers. Instead, down looks a bit more like a tiny ball of cotton threads. Many down pillows consist of a mixture of down and feathers. Such pillows won’t be as soft as down-only pillows, but most people don’t mind the feel of the mixed pillow. 

The pillow should list a percentage of the down and feather mixture it contains. The more down clusters the pillow has, the softer it should be. Ratios of 50%, 75%, and 95% are common.

Fill power gives you a clue as to the durability of a pillow, as well as its ability to retain its shape. Fill powers of 700 and higher are the best quality because they retain their shape longer, though 550 fill power is the most common for medium down pillows.

One final consideration you should have relates to the cleaning and maintenance required for the pillow. According to Good Housekeeping, some down pillows are machine washable, which is convenient, while others must be dry cleaned or only may be spot cleaned. Some have removable covers that can be washed, while other covers cannot be removed. 

Because department stores tend to frown on you taking naps during shopping hours to test various pillows, we've made this guide to the best down pillows so you can find your dream pillow without having to sleep on it first. 

Here are the best down pillows you can buy:

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

The best down pillow overall

Why you'll love it: The smart pillow-in-pillow design of the Pacific Coast Double Down Around King Pillow Set gives you a mix of support and comfort with high-quality duck down and feathers.

If one of your complaints about down pillows is the lack of support they give you, the Pacific Coast Double Down Around King Pillow Set has an interesting design to solve that problem.

The Pacific Coast down pillow has an inner core of feathers with a down filling around it. It consists of all-natural duck down and feathers in a design that is almost like a pillow in a pillow. The inner core gives you a nice level of support while sleeping, and the down filling gives you a great level of comfort.

Pacific Coast describes the pillow as medium in terms of support, so it should work well for most sleepers. You get two pillows in the set, and each one has a fill power of 550. The pillows are machine washable and hypoallergenic. Pacific Coast also offers a 30-day guarantee, so if you dislike the pillow for any reason, you can return it and get your money back.

Buyers and expert reviewers rate this set of pillows highly. In its review, Good Housekeeping says this Pacific Coast pillow looks great and delivers a high level of comfort, thanks to the use of feathers and down.

No matter what sleeping position you prefer, the Double Down Around Pillow will be able to support you properly, according to The Pillow Report.

Allure likes the hypoallergenic properties of this pillow, as it is able to block dust mites and allergens. The down fill that Pacific Coast uses with the pillow is extremely clean, too. 

Amazon shopper Dacula Zookeeper says the Pacific Coast Double Down Around pillow does cost a little more, but it resolves neck and shoulder discomfort because of its high level of support.

Pros: Interesting pillow-in-pillow design for superior mix of support and comfort, good support no matter what sleeping position you prefer, good hypoallergenic properties

Cons: Very expensive, may not quite match pillows you’ll find in luxury hotels

Buy the Pacific Coast Double Down Around Pillow Set (2 King Size Pillows) on Amazon for $159.95



The best goose down pillow with a 750 fill power

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% 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% 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% 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. — Michelle Ullman

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 down pillow for stomach sleepers

Why you'll love it: Stomach sleepers need a high level of support in a down pillow, and the Downlite Extra Soft Down Pillow has a thin design that won’t compress much during the night.

Doctors and sleep experts agree that you probably should not sleep on your stomach because it can lead to back and neck problems due to the unnatural stress you’re putting on these parts of your body. Still, some of us just can’t help ourselves, because stomach sleeping starts out so comfortable.

One reason why this Downlite down pillow works so well for stomach sleepers is that it doesn’t compress flat under constant pressure. The Extra Soft Down Pillow isn’t as thick to start with as some other down pillows, so it doesn't go flat as fast and the pillow will hold its shape quite well through the night.

You can pick from three sizes of this pillow, including 20 x 26, 20 x 30, and 20 x 36 inches. Downlite uses duck down as the fill material, and the 20 x 30 pillow has a fill power of 525 to 550. It's machine washable and hypoallergenic.

Expert reviewers give this pillow high marks. The Mattress Wallet says the Downlite pillow’s thinness delivers the level of support that stomach sleepers need to avoid neck and spine alignment problems.

Amazon shopper Jodie says the ability of this pillow to hold its shape throughout the night yields a high level of comfort for stomach sleepers.

Because stomach sleepers will have their faces smashed into the pillow, the hypoallergenic properties on this Extra Soft Down Pillow make it safer to breathe in the night, says Bedding Pal.

If you listen to your doctor and you don’t sleep on your stomach, you still can appreciate the support found in the Downlite Extra Soft Down Pillow, according to Super Comfy Sleep, as it yields a higher than average level of support for a down pillow.

However, several Amazon customers, including S. Sharkey, say the Downlite pillow is so thin, it almost disappears, meaning it doesn’t offer enough comfort versus other down pillows. Pillows are deeply personal, though, so what one person hates, another person may love.

Pros: Flatter than most down pillows to help stomach sleepers achieve just the right level of support, tough pillow that’s machine washable, has nice hypoallergenic properties to help with allergy concerns

Cons: A higher than average cost for a down pillow, it’s almost too thin to give you much comfort

Buy the Downlite Extra Soft Down Pillow (20 x 30 inches) on Amazon for $59.99



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

A 58-story skyscraper in San Francisco is tilting and sinking — and residents say their multimillion-dollar condos are 'nearly worthless'

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millennium tower sinking skyscraper san francisco crack

Millennium Tower in San Francisco is still sinking and leaning.

But there's finally a bit of good news for residents of the luxury building at 301 Mission Street, which has sunk 17 inches and tilted 14 inches since it was completed in 2008.

Engineers have proposed a fix for the tower's troubles. They want to drill hundreds of steel and concrete "micro piles" (a type of foundation shaped like a pillar) into bedrock, in order to stabilize the tower and prop it back upright, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.

The retrofit could cost between $200 million and $500 million, which is more than it cost to build the $350 million skyscraper more than 10 years ago.

Though an inspection by the city in 2017 showed that Millennium Tower is safe to occupy, the situation has motivated some people to bail out. Residents say they're selling their homes short of what they paid for them, with about 100 condos falling $320,000 in value on average.

Here's what we know about Millennium Tower.

SEE ALSO: All the crazy things happening in San Francisco because of its out-of-control housing prices

Millennium Tower rises 58 stories above San Francisco's Financial District.



The city's fourth-tallest skyscraper contains over 400 multimillion-dollar condo units. It soars 645 feet, giving residents panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Source: Emporis



Completed in 2008, Millennium Tower includes top-notch amenities, such as a pool, fitness center, wine cellar and tasting room, movie theater, and concierge service.

Source: Millennium Tower



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Here's what it's like to visit Whittier, Alaska — the 'town under one roof'

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Whittier, Alaska, is a small, remote town 60 miles south of Anchorage that is commonly referred to as the "town under one roof."

How small is Whittier? About 217 people live there, and it's accessible only by boat or a one-way, one-lane tunnel.

But the strangest thing about this town is that nearly all of its residents live in the same building, Begich Towers, a Cold War-era army barracks built in 1974. A police station, grocery store, clinic, church, convenience store, and school are all housed within the structure.

Begich Towers also has a bed and breakfast, and guests are welcome to come and observe how life goes on in the near one-structure town. Reddit userHyruleanHero1988 was curious to check out Whittier, so he visited the town during his last vacation. His girlfriend took plenty of photos and she shared them with us along with their observations of the peculiar town.

"This is what you see when you first approach Whittier," he writes. "The 2.5 mile tunnel that you have to pass through to enter the town is one lane only — they switch the direction of travel every 30 minutes. You have to wait at these lights until they let you go."



"This is the entrance to the tunnel."



"Traveling through the tunnel, it makes you feel a little claustrophobic. By the time you're nearing the end, this is definitely a welcome sight."



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A house designed by Joanna Gaines is on the market — take a look inside

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chip joanna gaines

"Fixer Upper," a mainstay of HGTV, aired its last episode in April 2018 — but that doesn't mean we have to say goodbye to the Gaines family forever.

In addition to their giant shopping complex, Magnolia Market in Waco, Texas, the Gaines' also have their own real estate company, Magnolia Realty, which means you could move into a Gaines-designed home.

This house, designed by Joanna herself, recently went on the market. The five-bedroom, three-bathroom Tudor-Ranch features a double-sided fireplace, an abundance of windows, and plenty of "Fixer Upper" staples like shiplap. 

Check out these interior photos of the home, and see if you can resist booking a flight to Texas to buy it.  

Chip and Joanna Gaines may have left our TV screens in April, but they're still in the real estate game. Joanna recently renovated this Waco, Texas, Tudor-Ranch style home.

The home was put up for sale by Magnolia Realty, the Gaines' real estate company. It boasts five bedrooms and three bathrooms.



Here's one of the home's five bedrooms. The entire house sticks to a neutral color scheme, making it easy to personalize.

Joanna's signature white on white look also makes the house feel more open and spacious. 



The brick fireplace is a focal point of this living space — it wraps around the corner.

Sliding barn doors are another favorite of the Gaines'. They'll crop up again within the house.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

This $30 million startup is building a new kind of holographic display to save the world from the 'dystopian future' of virtual reality

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Looking Glass 534 v(W_Credit)

  • Looking Glass is a Brooklyn-based startup building 3D holographic displays.
  • They are targeted at 3D designers who might want to create experiences and graphics without wearing a VR headset for long periods of time.
  • The displays are now available on Kickstarter, starting at $399 and ranging up to $1999, and the company met its goal in 2 hours. 

There's a tech startup based in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, inside an old glass factory. After snaking your way through a 19th century industrial world to their very modern space, you see a message written on their door in red paint: "No Dystopian Futures Allowed."

The dystopian futures that Looking Glass, the startup, is trying to avoid are those where everyone's plugged into headsets, according to founder Shawn Frayne — whether they're the virtual reality products from companies like Facebook's Oculus, or augmented reality systems from companies like Magic Leap which have been hailed by tech leaders as the future and the next logical step after the smartphone. 

Looking Glass's new eponymous product is basically a very advanced 3D display, or a "holographic display." You plug it into a desktop or laptop computer with one USB cable and one HDMI cable, and it can display a 3D model or world in full motion from common 3D software programs like Maya and Unity.

Looking Glass is "philosophically different" from other companies developing 3D displays, Frayne said. Instead of sending "one guy into a virtual world," like in virtual reality, the Looking Glass allows people to bring little bits of a 3D virtual world into the real world. 

In person, a Looking Glass is a moving, living 3D image that you can't take your eyes off of. 

The displays enable 3D developers to create new characters or models and show them to clients, coworkers, or audiences without requiring anyone to don a VR headset, which can lead to eye fatigue. Looking Glass said that game designers, major movie picture studios, and CAD companies have tried the displays and are enthusiastic. No dystopian futures allowed

There's a lot of tech and insights from over 100 prototypes that went into these displays, which are now available for preorder on Kickstarter starting at $399. Eventually, they will cost $600 for the 8.9-inch model, or $3,000 for a larger, 15-inch model. Both displays are about 7-inches deep. 

When I visited the Looking Glass offices last week, most people had one of the smaller models on their desk. 

The smaller Looking Glass has about 4 million points of light, Frayne said. The technology consists of two main components: a light field display and a volumetric display. The display creates 45 views of the world inside the display, which means you can see the 3D models from even a sharp angle off to the side. 

Looking Glass

Although the product is first available on Kickstarter, meeting its $50,000 goal in two hours, the listing is mainly to make it easier to pre-order, Frayne said. Looking Glass has raised $13 million in seed funding from Brad Feld's Foundry Group, Lux Capital, SOSV, and Uncork Capital valuing the company at $30 million, according to PitchBook Data. 

Here's what it's like to look through a Looking Glass. 

The Looking Glass is small enough to fit on a desk.



Here's one of the demos I saw. The video is surprisingly sharp and has a lot of volume. Even when looking at it from the side it was pretty clear.

 



But the Looking Glass can also display lifelike images.

 



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What it's like to live with each type of zodiac sign

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april andy parks and rec

Sharing a home with someone other than your partner or best friend can feel like walking on a tightrope (okay, that can be true in the aforementioned scenarios, too). But, if you've just moved to a new place or you're desperate to split your rent, living with someone is just a fact of life. And, for every person who claims that they can live with anyone, there are a dozen others who know their limits and strengths as a roommate — these are the people who have probably read up on their sign.

In the same way that someone's sign can clue us into their dating life or communication style, so, too, can it reveal how they'll behave when you live under the same roof. Of course, you won't be able to tell if someone's going to skip out on the rent based on their sign, but you might get a better idea of how they handle conflict and what kind of boundaries they might set.

So, astrology might not help you select the perfect roomie. It could, however, reflect the kind of relationship you'll have with them. Will you two end up being the next Joey and Chandler? It just might be written in the stars. Read on to learn more about what it's like to live with each Zodiac sign.

Aries

Rooming with a Ram? Brace yourself for many fiery (and most likely loud) interactions. You'll quickly learn that, from an Aries' point of view, arguing is a means of settling differences and finding solutions — not necessarily an expression of deep-seated anger. If you can let impassioned emotions roll off your back, you'll rarely lock horns.

Why they're good roomie material: If you don't mind things a little loud, Rams can be seriously fun — they'll shake you out of your end-of-day funk and distract you with a random subject they want to debate or a new board game they found on the street.

Why they'll make you want to live alone: Often referred to as the "youngest sibling" of the Zodiac, Aries don't love to share. The lines around whose chargers are whose and which of you bought that pint of Talenti could get very blurry.



Taurus

Peaceful, loyal Bulls make some of the best friends. Your way into their heart is as simple as making it clear that you care about your apartment as much as they do. This affinity for their home base also means being very ready and willing to share your common spaces.

Why they're good roomie material: Feel like spending a night in, possibly one featuring takeout and a tearjerker? What do you know, so is your roommate. Taureans mastered the low-key hangout long ago — and they'd love for you to join.

Why they'll make you want to live alone: Mess with a Bull's routine and you'll know the meaning of a hard stare. Your Taurean roomie will never start a full-on fight, but they will hold a grudge if you move their keys once.



Gemini

This roommate wants to get to know you. Once you've covered the basics (your hometown, career, likes, and dislikes), they'll move on to a more in-depth line of questioning — it's likely to never end. So, if you wanted a new best friend, live with a Gemini. If you're on the quieter side, prepare to come out of your shell.

Why they're good roomie material: This ultra-communicative sign will never shut you out or make you feel silly for asking about something. No issue is too small for a Gemini to avoid discussing it.

Why they'll make you want to live alone: As fun as it can be to live with someone who's always down to chat, Gems' seemingly endless amounts of energy might be too much if you like to just chill out when you're home.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

The highest point in every US state

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mauna kea

When it comes to elevation, the United States is a country of extremes. 

On one end of the spectrum, Alaska's Denali is the highest mountain in North America, rising to more than 20,000 feet above sea level.

On the other end, you have Florida's Britton Hill, which tops out at just 345 feet above sea level, making Florida the state with the lowest high point in the US.

We compiled a list of all 50 state high points, as well as the District of Columbia's, according to measurements from Geology.com. It probably won't surprise any geography buffs that virtually of America's tallest peaks are in the West, while most of the lowest high points are in the Midwest and the Deep South.  

Read on to find the highest point in each US state, and see how your state's tallest peak stacks up against the rest.

SEE ALSO: The tallest building in every US state

51. Florida — Britton Hill, 345 feet above sea level



50. District of Columbia — Point Reno, 409 feet above sea level



49. Delaware — Ebright Azimuth, 447 feet above sea level



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11 of the most controversial royal couples of all time

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princess diana prince charlesWhile it might seem like royal gossip is at a fever pitch these days, it’s nothing compared to what’s come before.

Throughout history, Europe’s royal families, in particular, have been plagued by scandals, controversy, and just plain bad press. From phone sex to affairs with the staff, the royals are one of the only groups of people who seem to become tamer with each generation.

King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn’s romance caused the entire UK to split from the Vatican.

At the beginning of King Henry VIII’s reign in 1509, the British crown showed no signs of wanting to leave Catholicism. But when Henry VIII fell in love with his mistress Anne Boleyn, he made the unprecedented decision to divorce his first wife, Katherine of Aragon. Divorce is and was strictly forbidden in the Catholic church, so Henry casually decided to create his own religion. Thus, The Church of England was born.

Forcing an entire nation to switch religions for your marriage is controversial enough, but Henry and Anne weren’t done yet: he later beheaded his wife for allegedly cheating on him. Then, he went on to marry four more times.



Prince Andrew dated an erotic film actress in the ‘80s.

Back in 1981, Queen Elizabeth’s son Prince Andrew fell for Koo Stark, an actress and model who’d done a few mildly provocative photo shoots and appeared nude on film. Also, she was American, and that wasn't — and still isn't — exactly common.

Echoing early media reports about Meghan Markle’s acting career in which she's had sex scenes, the press treated Stark badly. When the papers got wind of her past in "blue films," their relationship was treated like a major scandal. Andrew even introduced Stark to the queen, and the palace had to issue a statement, according to a 1982 article in People magazine, saying: "We do not know if the Queen was aware of the girl’s acting career before she was invited to Balmoral."

Despite the fact that they were serious about each other, their relationship ended reportedly due to pressure from the palace for Prince Andrew to find a more royal-family-ready mate, according to The New York Post.



Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson faced scandal after scandal.

Shortly after he and Stark broke up, Prince Andrew decided to settle down with someone who seemed like a more appropriate royal fit in the eyes of the public: Sarah Ferguson, a girl from the English countryside who couldn’t have seemed more normal if she tried.

As it turned out, Andrew and Sarah were ill-suited to each other, and the scandals and bad press they brought upon the crown were almost too numerous to name. The most bizarre incident of all was when she was caught on vacation having her toes sucked by her "financial planner," John Bryan, as she and Prince Andrew’s young daughters played nearby.

After all that, in 2010, decades after their 1996 divorce, Sarah was busted trying to sell information about Prince Andrew to the press, according to ABC. That move got her virtually excommunicated from the royal family — although, today, she still lives with Prince Andrew. She also posted about how handsome he is on his birthday this year. Their relationship has been called "strange," according to Express. 

 



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16 photos of abandoned Disney resorts that will give you the creeps

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River country bridge

  • Disney has tons of thriving parks — but it has abandoned more than most people realize.
  • Discovery Island was abandoned in 1999 and has been left untouched.
  • River Country was the first water park at the Walt Disney Resort, and closed down after multiple deaths and the tourism effects of 9/11.

Anything that's been abandoned is creepy to begin with, but abandoned Disney parks in particular have an unsettling quality to them that's hard to shake.

Disney has ditched several projects over the years for various reasons, but often these parks have been left intact to decay naturally over time. The result are eerie remains of what once was part of "the happiest place on Earth."

Take a look at a few of the parks Disney has abandoned over the years.

Discovery Island in Bay Lake has been abandoned since 1999.

The island could only be accessed from a Disney resort boat or a Walt Disney World Cruise, and was known as a premiere tourist destination from the 1970s to the 1990s.



It was originally called "Treasure Island" when it opened in 1974 as a bird sanctuary.

It was rebranded as "Discovery Island" in 1978, featuring a range of exotic animals, an aviary, flamingo pool, and a beach for tourists.



It closed in 1999 for a variety of reasons.

Reasons it closed included a fear of wild-roaming alligators, alleged mishandling of animals, and deadly bacteria found in the park's waters.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

Ellen DeGeneres just sold her Italian-style Santa Barbara mansion to a Netflix executive for $34 million

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  • Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi have finally sold their Santa Barbara mansion for $34 million — $11 million below the original asking price in March 2017.
  • The buyer has been revealed as Netflix executive Ted Sarandos.
  • The 16.88-acre estate, known as "The Villa," is modern yet classical.

Ellen DeGeneres is parting ways with one of her homes: a $34 million Santa Barbara area mansion.

According to the home's listing brokerage Sotheby's International Realty, DeGeneres and wife Portia de Rossi simply didn't have the time to use the mansion. The couple has bought and flipped several high-priced homes in Southern California, but this one is in Montecito, a neighboring town of Santa Barbara.

The couple originally listed the property in March 2017 for $45 million.

"Between 'The Ellen Show,' Ellen's new home collection and a new business that Portia is starting, they can't make it to Santa Barbara as often as they would like," a spokesperson at Sotheby's told Business Insider last spring.

The buyers have been revealed as Netflix exec Ted Sarandos and his wife Nicole Avant, former US Ambassador to the Bahamas, according to the real estate blog Yolanda's Little Black Book citing property records from June 2018.

The house, which is featured in DeGeneres' 2015 book "Home" and is known as "The Villa," was designed in the 1930s by architect Wallace Frost.

Frost originally built this two-story home for himself. After spending time in Italy, he wanted to recreate the classical style of a 17th-century Italian villa.

Since purchasing the property in 2012, DeGeneres and de Rossi have bought two adjacent properties to make this a 16.88-acre estate. According to Sotheby's listing agent Suzanne Perkins, they have completely modernized the house, adding a sunken tennis court, pool, and indoor-outdoor entertaining pavilion. 

SEE ALSO: No one wants to buy this $129 million mansion with 12 bedrooms and its own bowling alley

DeGeneres and de Rossi bought the estate for $26.5 million in 2012. It was designed by architect Wallace Frost in the 1930s, and its classical style is still intact.



According to the listing, Santa Barbara is sometimes referred to as "the American Riviera" because of its similarity to Europe's well-known region.



"The Villa similarly brings touches of the Old World to the New World," reads the press release announcing the original listing.



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20 of the most beautiful campsites around the world

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Camping might mean a little more work than checking into a glamorous hotel and dealing with housekeeping for a vacation, but if you’re okay with that, it’s absolutely worth it. Spending a few days in nature without being connected to the many luxuries we use every day can be a truly eye-opening experience.

Planning a great camping trip begins with picking the perfect campsite. You want a location that offers gorgeous views, an exciting landscape, and ideal temperatures. Luckily, there are thousands of campsites all over the world to choose from, and some are just a little bit nicer than others.

If you’re in need of some fresh air, you might want to consider one of these beautiful campsites around the world. Some are on the beach, some are in the mountains, and some are in a much more unique spot, but they all offer the same things: stunning views of the world around you, a chance to spot some wildlife, and tons of adventure. Who doesn’t want that during a vacation?

Camp in the mountains at Sahale Glacier Camp in Washington, USA.

According to Time For A Hike, Sahale Glacier Camp is one of the best back-country campsites in the United States National Park System. Individual campsites are nestled among rock walls and only reachable through a hike in North Cascades National Park. You camp at over 7,000 feet at the foot of the Sahale Glacier, among the mountains in the North Cascades. A permit is required to camp there, and it isn’t exactly for beginners, but if you feel comfortable going, you’ll see some of the most beautiful views in the United States.



Experience the rainforest at Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica.

Corcovado National Park is an incredible place to explore, with 13 major ecosystems, beautiful waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife, including jaguars, monkeys, and tapirs. You can explore the beautiful rainforest in a very immersive way, swim in a waterfall, and relax by the beach. There’s so much to do and see, and everything is gorgeous.



Go tree camping in Waldseilgarten, Germany.

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, you can’t get any better than this one. Located in the German Alps, Waldseilgarten Höllschlucht allows you to try out tree camping, which means campers stay in tents that are hung from tree branches high up in the forest canopy. If you manage to get up there (by rope!), you’ll get incredible views of the Pfronten mountains by the Austrian border.



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10 products people swear by to fade acne scars and dark marks

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dark spots acne scar

We’ve all been there: Your breakout has finally vanished, but a dark mark or acne scar has been left in its place. It might seem like there’s no fix to this annoying problem, but thankfully there are plenty of products on the market that will help fade these blemishes into oblivion.

So, if you’re ready to vanquish these pesky dark marks and acne scars once and for all, look no further than these fan-favorite fading products.

Renée Rouleau Post-Breakout Fading Gel is the perfect lightener.

Touted as a fast-acting acne fading gel, this Renée Rouleau product is meant to gently brighten and exfoliate hyperpigmentation on your skin. For just over $40, this product is definitely worth a shot. Refinery29 called the product a "great relief for acne scars."



Dr. Brandt Skincare Microdermabrasion Age Defying Exfoliator will help eliminate your blemishes.

A cult favorite with over a thousand reviews on Sephora and over 30,000 “loves”, it’s clear to see why this product is so beloved. This $79 product is packed with crystals, lactic acid, and different botanical oils to help even out skin complexion and reduce the appearance of imperfections with each use.



Don’t be afraid to try KIEHL’S Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution.

This serum, with over 10,000 "loves" on Sephora, has one purpose and one purpose only: to make sure the dark spots on your face never see the light of day. Alright, that’s a bit dramatic, but this $50 miracle serum was created to correct dark spots, cure dullness, and provide an even skin tone through prolonged use.



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10 effective skin-care ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen

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face scrub woman in shower

Investing in the latest and greatest skin-care products can make you feel like a million bucks, but it’s safe to say that some of your favorite cleansers, masks, and facial creams can cost a pretty penny. So, if you’re looking to scale back on the unnecessary beauty splurges, you’ll love to hear that some of your favorite kitchen cupboard staples can also double as effective beauty ingredients. Dermatologists say that items like chamomile tea, yogurt, and even baking soda can work wonders on many skin types.

Here are some of the skin-care ingredients dermatologists recommend looking into.

Oatmeal works wonders on eczema-prone skin.

"Oats have been used for centuries to treat inflamed skin," said Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research at Mount Sinai in New York City. Oats contain avenanthramides, he added, a necessary compound that helps calm inflammation in the skin.

Colloidal oatmeal also has its share of benefits, as Zeichner explained that it's listed by the FDA as a skin protecting ingredient to help treat eczema. To incorporate oatmeal into your everyday routine, Zeichner recommended adding oats to your bath for a hydrating soap or using it to make a compress for inflamed and itchy areas.



Honey can be used on bug bites and pimples.

Using honey on your skin may seem like just another baseless old wives tale, but Zeichner said honey is actually another popular at-home remedy that's been used to treat acne flare-ups and painful bug bites. In fact, people choose to wash their face with honey to clear their skin. He also said honey has anti-inflammatory, skin protecting, and antimicrobial properties, making it something many people use to remove pimples, fade acne scars, and treat other pesky skin infections. It's worth noting that not all professionals agree that honey can fight acne, although they do say it can be hydrating. 



Strawberries are the perfect DIY acne remedy.

You may have heard about the teeth whitening benefits of strawberries on Pinterest or Youtube, but surprisingly enough, strawberries can also have a pretty positive effect on acne according to board-certified Dr. Debra Jaliman.

"People with acne can benefit from the salicylic acid inside strawberries," Dr. Jaliman told INSIDER. "Strawberries are also rich in vitamin C, which helps heal the skin and reduce inflammation," she added.



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Jared Kushner's brother is engaged to model Karlie Kloss. Here's everything we know about the power couple.

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Kushner Kloss

  • The millionaire entrepreneur and investor Joshua Kushner and his girlfriend, the model Karlie Kloss, announced their engagement on Tuesday. 
  • The couple has been together for six years but has mostly attempted to keep their relationship private. 
  • Here's what we know about the couple's relationship — as well as their unconventional relationship with the White House. 

Joshua Kushner, the younger brother of the White House adviser Jared Kushner, is officially engaged to model Karlie Kloss. 

The pair seems to have confirmed People magazine's report of their engagement on Instagram, with Kushner posting a photo of Kloss captioned "fiancé."

"I love you more than I have words to express. Josh, you're my best friend and my soulmate. I can't wait for forever together. Yes a million times over,"Kloss captioned her own Instagram post. 

The couple made headlines earlier this year when they posted photos from the March for Our Lives, the anti-gun-violence rally in support of stricter gun-control measures that took place in many US cities and towns in March.

Kushner and Kloss had remained quiet on politics, including about their connections to the Trump family. And while the duo have dated for more than five years, they rarely speak publicly about their relationship.

In light of the well-connected couple's engagement, here's a look at the life of Joshua Kushner and Karlie Kloss:

SEE ALSO: 2 under-the-radar members of the Trump family are quietly speaking out in support of gun control

Joshua Kushner rose to prominence in his 20s as an entrepreneur and venture capitalist.

In 2009, at age 24, Kushner founded the venture-capital firm Thrive Capital.

Two years later, he raised $40 million from investors including Princeton University and Peter Thiel, a venture capitalist known for his investments in tech companies such as Facebook and his support of Trump in the 2016 presidential campaign.

Thrive was an early investor in Instagram, as well as in startups including Warby Parker, Kickstarter, and ClassPass.



Kushner helped found Oscar Health in 2012.

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The health-insurance startup, which aims to use tech to provide a more consumer-friendly insurance option, is now worth $2.7 billion.



Karlie Kloss, meanwhile, has been working as a model since her teenage years.

Kloss skyrocketed to prominence in 2007, when she was 15.

By 2010, she was a big enough name to appear on "Gossip Girl" as herself. (Ironically, Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner also appeared on the show in 2010, though in a different episode.)

The model has often made headlines because of her close friendship with Taylor Swift. In 2015, Kloss started Kode With Klossy, a charity that encourages girls to get involved in coding and tech.



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How to subscribe to a podcast on your iPhone or iPad

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There are more than 550,000 podcasts on Apple Podcasts. In the United States alone, about 44% of people have listened to at least one podcast — that's nearly 150 million people. And the average listener listens to seven podcasts a week. 

But how do these listeners find, download, and subscribe to these podcasts? We'll take you on a journey to the land of Apple Podcasts to answer that question.

On our journey, we'll show you how you can subscribe to Business Insider's new podcast: Household Name

Household Name tells the surprising stories behind the biggest household name brands. Host Dan Bobkoff brings us tales of tragedy, love, strange histories, unintended consequences, and accidental success. And in each episode, we find out how these brands changed our lives — for better or worse.

You won't want to miss an episode, so follow these easy steps to learn how to listen.


Household Name is also available on: 

Stitcher  |  Stitcher Premium (ad free)  |  Spotify  |  Overcast  |  Pocket Casts  |  Podcast Addict  |  Castbox  |  and more. 

 SUBSCRIBE TO "HOUSEHOLD NAME" NOW FOR FREE ON APPLE PODCASTS

Don't have an Apple device? Use this link to subscribe on Stitcher

Step 1: Find the Apple Podcasts app.

The Apple Podcasts app is automatically downloaded on iPhones and iPads. If you've never seen it before, it's probably in your Utilities folder. 



Step 2: Go to the Search tab, and type in what you're looking for. In this case, Household Name.

There are more than half a million podcasts, so it's easiest to search for the title of the podcast if you know what you're looking for. Click the "Search" tab at the bottom right of the app, type in the name of the podcast ("Household Name"), then click search. 



Step 3: Subscribe to the show.

Once you're on the Household Name show page, click subscribe! Subscribing to the show means future episodes will be automatically downloaded to your podcast app. Subscribing to the show is *free* and this is the best way to ensure you don't miss an episode. You can always unsubscribe later. 



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The best women's running gear for hot weather

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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 hot weather running gear

The Insider Pick:

With the right gear, running is an exercise that can be practiced nearly all year around depending on where you live. Having the right kind of running gear can make or break your running experience. Staying cool during your summer runs is just as important as staying warm during those chilly winter outings.

As a runner living in the Northeastern United States, I can attest to the importance of having the right type of gear to match the season. Summer has made her presence known this year with record-breaking heatwaves, so there’s no better time to arm yourself with clothing and accessories that will help keep you cool.

For successful summer running, timing matters. Get out for your runs in the early morning or in the evening when the heat isn’t as intense. There are also a few important things to consider when seeking out the right gear to help you stay cool, comfortable, and protected. When it comes to clothing, light colors are best and breathable, synthetic fabrics are a must. They’ll help you stay cool while wicking sweat away and promoting airflow around your body.

Look for sun protection when you can. UPF protective clothing and accessories like a running cap can help prevent sunburn. The higher the UPF rating, the better the sun protection. Ideally, you’ll want to look for clothing rated at 25 or above. For the best sun protection, don’t forget to apply sunscreen!

Running sunglasses are also a smart purchase to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, and can make your run more comfortable. It’s no fun squinting during your entire run only to end up with a headache to ruin the euphoria from those post-run endorphins.

To help you find the best warm weather running gear, we’ve gone through the reviews and done some testing of our own to find the best selection, so you can feel (and look) cool from head to toe.

Here are our top picks for the best running gear to keep you cool:

 

 

 

 

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

The best running top to keep you cool

Why you'll love it: The super lightweight fabric of the Brooks Ghost Racerback allows for breathability and a barely-there feel that makes it ideal for hot and humid days. 

You’re likely familiar with the phrase “light as a feather,” and it’s an apt description for the Brooks Ghost Racerback. Made from 100% polyester, this top wicks sweat away and dries quickly, which will help you feel cool and dry as you run. It comes in a few basic colors, as well as a fun color block design if you feel like jazzing up your running outfit. You can get it in sizes ranging from XS to XXL.

I put this running top to the test myself, and am happy to report that it has become my go-to running top on those hot summer days when it’s tempting to ditch a shirt altogether. I like that this top provides some coverage from the sun, while still giving you that barely-there feel thanks to the lightweight fabric.

The seams on the side also have a loose weave for added ventilation. On every run, it remained comfortable. There was no riding up, and no adjustments were needed. I experienced zero chafing, even after completing some very sweaty runs.

This top stood up to the heat (and the sweat) and kept me comfortable throughout my runs. It had already started to dry by the time I’d cooled down and stretched. It has also washed well, but I’ve only air dried it, which I recommend doing for most running clothes to help them last longer and perform at their best.

If you’re looking for a fitted running top that sits close to the skin, you won’t find it in the Ghost Racerback. It is described as semi-fitted, which I would say is accurate. I found that it fit true to size, but some reviewers did suggest sizing down if you want a closer fit. This top is also slightly see-through, which is a great way to show off a cute sports bra and adds to the breathability provided by the semi-fitted style.

Reviewers at REI had positive things to say about this top, with sentiments like “great for summertime” and “perfect for running in hot weather.” The Brooks Ghost Racerback checked all the boxes for everything I look for in a running top: Flattering fit, great performance, and easy to wash and dry. It’s the ideal running top for those hot days when you know you’ll be busting out a sweat no matter the intensity of your workout.

While the Brooks Ghost Racerback doesn’t offer UPF protection against the sun, you can find more of the best running tops for hot weather here for additional options!

Pros: Ultra-lightweight fabric, breathable, non-chafing, fast drying, washes well

Cons: Some reviewers felt it ran too big; some may not like that this top is slightly see-through

Buy the Brooks Ghost Racerback at REI for $27.93 

Check out our guide to the best running tops for hot weather



The best running shorts to keep you cool

Why you'll love them: The Under Armour Women’s Fly-By shorts will keep you cool in hot weather thanks to the lightweight material and mesh side panels that enhance breathability.

On especially hot days, a good pair of running shorts that don’t ride up and provide breathability are a must. The Under Armour Fly-By shorts are a favorite among runners because they check all the necessary boxes: They’re comfortable, breathable, flattering, and provide extra features not found in all running shorts.

Available in sizes ranging from XS to XXL, these shorts come in a wide range of colors so you can choose your favorite, and have reflective details to keep you visible in low light, which is great if you’re trying to beat the heat by getting out in the early morning or late evening. They also provide ample storage solutions with front hand pockets and a hidden back storage pocket in the waistband.

If you’re looking for comfort, you won’t be disappointed. The wide elastic waistband won’t dig into your skin, and its flat design will look flattering underneath your running tops. There are built-in briefs for added coverage so you can focus on your run without worrying about a wardrobe malfunction. The shaped hem also allows these shorts to have a loose and comfortable fit without looking bulky.

Made from 100% polyester, the fabric is light and breathable so you can feel dry and comfortable even as you sweat. The mesh side panels further promote airflow as you run. These are machine washable, but as with most athletic gear, it’s best to air dry them instead of throwing them in the dryer to prolong their lifespan. Thanks to the synthetic material, they won’t take long to dry so you can be throwing them on in no time to get that run in.

The Under Armour Fly-By shorts are labeled as a “best seller” on the brand's website and have a 4.5-star average rating on Amazon. Thanks to the features and flattering fit they offer, it comes as no surprise that they’re a favorite pick among runners. Reviewers from Amazon say they're “perfect for running outdoors in hot weather” thanks to the lightweight material.

Reviewer Carol K. says, “Normally, it can be difficult to find shorts that fit well, but I love these. Quality material, comfortable fit, and the pockets are subtle but useful. 5 stars!”

Much like dresses with pockets, I (and many reviewers) consider running shorts with pockets to be a great find. Though these shorts don’t offer UPF protection, if you’re looking for a comfortable pair of lightweight running shorts that will help you stay cool, the Under Armour Fly-By shorts are a great option.

Pros: Comfortable, flattering fit, light-weight material with mesh side panels, front pockets for extra storage, reflective details for more visibility, multiple colors to choose from

Cons: Don’t offer UPF protection

Buy the Under Armour Women’s Fly-By shorts at Under Armour for $24.99



The best running socks for hot days

Why you'll love them: The Feetures Elite Light cushion No Show Tab socks keep your feet comfortable and come in plenty of fun colors. 

Uncomfortable feet can make for a miserable run, which is why buying socks specially designed for running is an investment you’ll thank yourself for. Just as there are running socks designed to keep your toes toasty in the winter, there are also socks designed to keep your feet as cool as possible in the summer. True to the clever name, these Feetures socks do indeed come with plenty of features that make them a worthwhile addition to your sock drawer.

A lot of thought was put into the design of the Feetures Elite. The anatomical design with a specific right foot and left foot sock creates a better fit, and the seamless toe prevents any unwanted chafing that can lead to blisters. Targeted compression will give you additional support during your runs, and the high-density knitting provides a light cushion without stifling your feet in hot conditions.

The Coolfeet ventilation system is designed to keep your feet cool with synthetic fibers that quickly wick away sweat so you can continue to feel dry as the miles tick by. There are fun colors to match the fun name, and different sizes to choose from so you can be sure to find your perfect fit.

These are no-show socks, but the cushioned tab on the back of the sock comes up just high enough to eliminate any unwanted heel chafing, and prevents the socks from slipping down into your running shoes.

I own a couple pairs of these socks myself, and have never had an issue with blisters or slippage. They’re my go-to on hot days when I don’t want too much cushion and want to keep my feet feeling light and dry. I often find myself wearing them outside of running as well thanks to how comfortable they are.

Among runners, they’re one of the more popular brands of running socks — and for good reason. They live up to the promised results and have a high-quality construction that will make them last through the miles. Some reviewers did feel they were on the expensive side, but still worth buying. They’re perfect for long runs when durability truly counts and will get you to the finish line blister-free.

Amazon reviewer Stephanie calls them a must-have sock saying, “I wear these predominantly for running and they keep my feet at a comfortable temperature, with no sliding or shifting in the sock. The cushioning is comfortable and just enough where you feel it, but the socks aren’t bulky as a result.”

Pros: Anatomical design, seamless toe to help prevent blisters, cushioned tab to prevent slipping, provides compression for support where needed, sweat-wicking fabric to keep feet cool and dry

Cons: On the expensive side

Buy the Feetures Elite Light Cushion No Show Tab running socks on Amazon for $11.99 and up



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10 actors who convincingly played historical figures on screen

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theory of everything stephen hawking

There’s something so fascinating about a great period piece — a movie that can take you back in time and provide a nuanced look at life during a specific era. Essential to the success of such films is the ability of the cast to realistically portray the people of the time.

Here, we take a look back at 10 actors who had some of the best — and realistic — depictions of historical figures on-screen. In fact, many of them took Oscars home for their work.

Daniel Day-Lewis won an Oscar for portraying President Abraham Lincoln.

Renowned Method actor Daniel Day-Lewis was so convincing as 16th president Abraham Lincoln in 2012’s “Lincoln” that he took home an Oscar, a Golden Globe, and a SAG Award, according to GoldDerby.com.



Denzel Washington captured the passion of civil rights leader Malcolm X.

It’s hard to believe Denzel Washington didn’t take home an Oscar for his complex portrayal of civil rights leader Malcolm X in the 1992 biopic, "Malcolm X," directed by Spike Lee. It’s considered one of his greatest roles.



Ben Kingsley was a dead ringer for Indian activist Mahatma Gandhi.

Slain Indian activist Mahatma Gandhi came to life in 1982’s "Gandhi" thanks to the artful acting of Ben Kingsley. The film, directed by Richard Attenborough, won eight Oscars, including Best Actor in a Leading Role and Best Picture.



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'I can't feel my body right now': Goldman Sachs held its annual Wiffle ball tournament and it got a little competitive (GS)

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Goldman Sachs Wiffle Ball

Every year, Goldman Sachs hosts a day of Wiffle ball on behalf of DREAM, the Harlem non-profit that runs a charter school and after school programs.

The brainchild of Goldmans' global co-head of equities trading and execution Brian Levine, it brings together hundreds of employees across the company for a day of fun and camaraderie. Last Friday, Business Insider stopped by the ball fields near Goldman's NYC office to catch a glimpse of the action and see who would end the day with a year's worth of bragging rights. 


The event is held on a ball field just north of Goldman Sachs's 200 West Street headquarters in New York.



Here you can see how the field is set up. Team members pitch to each other, and they aim to hit the ball over a series of lines delineated by cones. The opposing team tries to catch the ball, or otherwise stop it.



Employees grouped themselves into 120 teams divided by division. The teams play three games in pool play before advancing into the final single-elimination round of 16. Each team hits for five minutes in each game.



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This photographer creates 'online dating profiles' for shelter dogs — and she's helped over 30 of them get adopted

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Trailsandbears Instagram 5

Adopting a dog can change its life.

That's the point that Rachael Rodgers is trying to make with her Instagram account, @trailsandbears.

Rodgers' account features adorable portraits of shelter pups, in the hopes that the glamour shots and their captions will help the dogs find a forever home.

Rodgers spoke to INSIDER about the project. Keep scrolling to learn more, and of course to see heart-warming pictures of dogs.

Rodgers photographed the first adoptable dog featured on her Instagram (Mishka) back in November of 2017.

Mishka means "little bear" in Russian.



When Rodgers first got Instagram, she wasn't quite sure why she had the app or what to do with it.



Rodgers gained a number of followers, including many dog lovers, after posting a viral photo of Denali, one of her two dogs.

Rachael owns Denali and Beans with her partner. Both are 13 years old. Denali came from the Humane Society, and Beans came from a farm. 



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