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52 celebrities you probably forgot guest-starred on 'The Big Bang Theory'

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stephen hawking the big bang theory

"The Big Bang Theory" is coming to an end after its 12th season. 

Since 2007, Leonard, Sheldon, Penny, Raj, and Howard have had their fair share of run-ins with celebrities. Howard rubbed shoulders with Buzz Aldrin when he went to space, James Earl Jones pranked Carrie Fisher, and Adam West was invited to Sheldon's birthday party. Stars ranging from Bob Newhart to the late Stephen Hawking have even become recurring characters on the CBS comedy.

Neil deGrasse Tyson and Bill Nye will once again join the show to kick off its 12th season on September 24. Before the star-studded final season premieres, take a look back at the many stars who have appeared on the show. 

"Roseanne" actress and "The Talk" co-host Sara Gilbert appeared on the show for several seasons as an experimental physicist.

Before Johnny Galecki reprised his role on the "Roseanne" reboot, his old co-star Sara Gilbert appeared on "The Big Bang Theory" until season three as Leonard's ex and colleague, Dr. Leslie Winkle. 

Winkle returned for the show's 200th episode on season nine to attend Sheldon's birthday party.



She's not the only "Roseanne" star who has made an appearance. Laurie Metcalf has played Sheldon's mom.

Metcalf has appeared on a handful of episodes as Mary Cooper since season one. We expect to see her again to close out the show. 



Charlie Sheen played himself on an episode of season two.

Sheen appeared on "The Big Bang Theory" while his CBS show, "Two and a Half Men," was on TV. Raj tells Sheen at a bar that he's going to be in People magazine. 

You can watch a snippet of the scene here.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

Apple just quietly killed off a bunch of older iPhone and Apple Watch models — here are the products that are gone forever (AAPL)

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Apple's annual hardware event may have been an exciting day for gadget lovers, as three new iPhones were introduced. But it was a sad day for those diehard fans of Apple's older products, as the Cupertino tech giant took the chance to clean house. 

Apple quietly killed off half a dozen of its older devices, including some beloved iPhone models and the fanciest Apple Watch — it even eliminated the iPhone X, which first hit store shelves less than a year ago.

Here are all the devices Apple just discontinued. 

SEE ALSO: Here's how the new $400 Apple Watch Series 4 compares to last year's model, the Apple Watch Series 3

Apple Watch Series 1

The Apple Watch Series 1 debuted in 2016, alongside the higher-end Apple Watch Series 2. Up until Wednesday, Apple still sold the Series 1, positioning it as a cheaper alternative to the Apple Watch Series 3, which was announced in 2017. Apple already quietly discontinued the Series 2 last year.

The Apple Watch Series 1 was something of a budget option — until it was discontinued this week, the Series 1 sold for $249.

These days, you can still find it at third-party retailers like Walmart for $179.



Apple Watch Edition

Introduced when Apple first launched its smartwatch in 2015, the super-premium Apple Watch Edition came with an 18-karat gold case and started at $10,000.

In 2016, Apple replaced the gold cases with ceramic ones and lowered the starting price of the Watch Edition to $1,250. 

Now, the Apple Watch Edition has been removed from Apple's lineup entirely. But it's not much of a surprise — when Apple announced its new smartwatch operating system in June, the Edition and original Apple Watch were not included in the list of devices eligible for the update.



iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus

The iPhone 6s and its larger sister phone, the iPhone 6s Plus, were released in 2015, making them 3-year-old phones at this point. 

While there wasn't much reason to buy them anymore in terms of specs, both phones had a major selling point: They were two of the only three models of iPhone being made that still sported a headphone jack. Starting with 2016's iPhone 7, all newer iPhones have only had Apple's own Lightning port connector. 

Up until Wednesday, Apple was selling the iPhone 6s for $450, and the iPhone 6s Plus for $550. If you're an iPhone 6s devotee, you can still buy the devices through your carrier, or find refurbished versions online. But it doesn't seem like Apple will be making any more.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

These 6 startups are making innovative performance dress shirts for men — here's how they compare, and which ones to buy based on your budget and style

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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.

Ministry of Supply

Times have changed, and so have dress shirts. The days of having to iron a shirt only for it to get wrinkled after a few minutes of wear, walking around with unsightly sweat stains, or being confined to an uncomfortable fit all day are over thanks to the evolution of performance materials.

Typically characterized by their stretchy, wrinkle-free, and moisture-wicking materials, performance dress shirts are designed to bring a sport-like feel to a menswear staple.

Regardless of your age or profession, you're going to have to wear a dress shirt at one point or another, if it's not already on a daily basis. By choosing a performance option, the idea of wearing a dress shirt won't be as dreadful as it once was.  Overall, they're more comfortable, durable, and suitable for everyday activities. 

These six startups — Twillory, DUER, Woodies Clothing, Ministry of Supply, Mizzen+Main, and Bonobos— all make performance dress shirts that are great for different reasons. Whether you're on a budget or looking to splurge on a high-end shirt, there's a performance shirt for everyone.

Check out our comparison of the six best performance dress shirts, below: 

Twillory

Shop Twillory Performance Dress Shirts here, $99 each or four or more for $54 each

Read the full review here.

The Twillory Performance Dress shirt comes in many styles and features a four-way stretch material made from cotton, lycra, and the brand's proprietary Cool Max fabric. The material is also wrinkle resistance, and has moisture wicking properties. What makes the shirt so great is actually price, as it's one of the more affordable on our list. They sell for $99 each, but can be had for less when bought in bulk — 2 for $119, 3 for $175, and four or more for $54 each. With many of the same features as more expensive options, this is a great value.

 



DUER 9 to 9 Performance Shirt

DUER 9 to 9 Button Down Shirt, $89

The DUER 9 to 9 Button Down is another budget-friendly option, especially if you only need to buy one shirt. It's designed to be worn all day long, from 9 a.m. in the office to 9 p.m at dinner with friends. For a night out, the shirt is made from a blend of cotton, Coolmax, and spandex to allow full mobility and breathable comfort. Coming in blue, white, and grey, every option can be easily worked into any guy's wardrobe.

 



Woodies Clothing

Woodies performance dress shirts, $115

Read the full review here.

Woodies is the go-to choice for custom, made-to-measure performance shirts. The brand uses key measurements from your closet and basic information like your height and weight to make perfectly fitting clothes. Compared to other options, Woodies' performance shirts aren't the stretchiest, but their two-way stretch will get the job done. The ability to fully customize your shirt by choosing the collar and cuffs, adding a pocket, and monogramming your initials on it makes it ideal for men going for a personalized look.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

AMC's 'The Terror' is the biggest Emmy snub of the year, with an appalling 0 nominations

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The Terror

  • AMC's "The Terror" is an amazing limited series starring some familiar faces from "Game of Thrones" and "Mad Men." 
  • It premiered to high critical acclaim in March, but earned zero Emmy nominations.
  • Its lack of nominations is a disgrace, and the biggest snub of the year. 
  • The historical-fiction series is a sci-fi horror twist on the stories of real people who went on an expedition to the Arctic and never returned.

AMC's historical-fiction series "The Terror" is the best new TV show of the year so far, and critics loved it when it premiered in March. But in an upsetting twist, "The Terror," which should have dominated all of the limited series categories at the 2018 Emmys, isn't even nominated for one. 

Set in the Canadian Arctic, "The Terror" follows a British expedition stuck in ice, haunted by a horrifying creature. The show is terrifying and impeccably made — from the sets to the costumes to the performances. It is truly unlike anything else on television no, or ever before. 

The first season of "The Terror" stars some of your favorite British actors, including a few from "Game of Thrones" like Ciaran Hinds (Mance Rayder), Tobias Menzies (Edmure Tully), and Clive Russell (The Blackfish). Jared Harris, who played Lane Pryce on AMC's "Mad Men," is the star, and deserved a nomination for best actor in a limited series. 

The series, which premiered on March 26, is based on the 2007 Dan Simmons novel of the same name; both are fictionalized accounts of Sir John Franklin's lost expedition. In May, when the finale aired, Business Insider spoke with David Kajganichthe creator of the series, who said that the show had been in the works for a decade.

The story, however, dates back to the late 1800s.

In 1845, Franklin (Hinds on the show) led the HMS Terror and the HMS Erebus on an Arctic expedition to explore the Northwest Passage. After a few men died, both ships got stuck in ice, and not one person out of 129 ever returned. The remains of the ships were found recently: the Terror in 2016 and the Erebus in 2014. There has always been a lot of speculation about what happened to the lost explorers, and "The Terror" imagines they were hunted by a supernatural being.

"The Terror," which manages to look horrifying and gorgeous at the same time, was (amazingly) not shot outside, though most of the series is set in the open Arctic. What you mostly see are stunning visual effects. 

The AMC anthology series was so successful that the network picked it up for another season in June, with new writers and a new cast. Season two will be a completely new story that's set at a Japanese internment camp during World War II. Similarly to season one, it will depict a dark and disturbing real-life event with an out-of-reality horror elements. 

Here are some of the best things critics said about "The Terror" that will hopefully get you to stop everything you are doing and watch it — and then complain about how it didn't get nominated for any Emmys. 

SEE ALSO: Our Emmys 2018 predictions: who should win, who will win, and who got snubbed

"A lavish event series that could be called 'Master and Commander' Meets 'The Thing.' It's not quite as exciting as that pitch makes it sound, but it is a show that builds up steam around the fourth episode."

— Brian Tallerico, RogerEbert.com



"As the title suggests, 'The Terror' is interested in fear itself, how it transforms us, how it turns us cruel and savage ... It conjures a piercing dread, both familiar and inconceivable; a portrait of man and nature at their cruelest and coldest."

— Haleigh Foutch, Collider



"'The Terror' can be scary, but it's real achievement is climatological. The freeze is tangible. When you watch it, wear a sweater."

— Darren Franich, Entertainment Weekly



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13 abandoned castles around the world and the history behind them

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Carew Castle

Castles may have served as impenetrable fortresses in medieval times, but many have become eerie, crumbling structures. 

Even structures  that have been abandoned for centuries still seem to echo with the ghosts of the dignitaries who lived there, the wars fought on their grounds, and the opulence they once contained. 

Here are 13 abandoned castles around the world and the stories behind them.

Bannerman Castle — Beacon, New York

Bannerman Castle once acted as arms storage for Frank Bannerman, a Scottish munitions dealer in New York City. Bannerman and his wife eventually built a glamorous, castle-like home on the property, located on Pollepel Island on the Hudson River, and resided there during the summer.

Bannerman's name can still be seen on its walls despite a powder explosion in 1920, several fires, and changes in ownership. Visitors can tour the island via passenger boat or kayak.



Gwrych Castle — North Wales, UK

Gwrych Castle was built in the early 1800s as the home of Lloyd Hesketh Bamford-Hesketh. It is said that Queen Victoria visited once before taking the throne.

It had a total of 128 rooms, including 28 bedrooms, an outer hall, an inner hall, two smoke rooms, a dining room, a drawing room, a billiards room, an oak study, and a range of accommodations for servants. During World War II, it housed 200 Jewish refugees, and was later open to the public as a theme park complete with a zoo.

The castle was bought several years ago with the intention of being converted into an opera house and luxury hotel, but the plan never materialized.



The Ruins — Talisay City, Philippines

Legend has it that Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson, a sugar baron who owned plantations in the 20th century, built the mansion in memory of his wife who died while pregnant with their 11th child, according to Atlas Obscura.

The building is said to have been intentionally set on fire by the US military to prevent the Japanese from using it as a base during World War II, but its walls are still standing.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

I travel all the time, and these are the 10 things I never get on a plane without

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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.

Airplane landing sunrise morning early flight

I've been living in New York City for the last five years, and over that time I've gotten used to frequent traveling. My family still lives in the Midwest and until recently my dearest friends lived in other states, so at least once a month I could be seen filing onto a bus, train, or plane to another destination.

And as with all things, practice makes (closer to) perfect.

Because of this, I've become much more discerning about what I travel with, in part because my job involves testing products to see which ones are worthwhile.

Below are 10 things I love to travel with, be it for their space, versatility, convenience, or reliability:

DON'T MISS: The 11 gadgets and tech accessories I used the most while traveling abroad

(Actually) wireless earbuds that save on space and add convenience.

I rarely travel with a checked bag anymore, so space is a top concern. For shorter trips where I don't want my Marshall over-ear headphones to take up prime real estate or get crushed, I bring along my Jaybird RUN truly wireless buds. They're tiny enough to keep in my pocket, and their charging case takes up less room than a pair of rolled socks. Plus, they've got an 8-hour playtime and on the off-chance I forgot to charge them beforehand, 5 minutes in their charging case gives me an hour of listening time. 

Jaybird RUN True Wireless In-Ear Headphones, available at Amazon, $147.98



A carry-on that holds an impossible amount of things and can function as a duffel or backpack.

Plain and simple, this is the best carry-on bag I've ever found. Ever since Cotopaxi sent me a test unit almost five months ago, I haven't gone on a single trip without it.

It fits a lot, while still meeting airline restrictions for a carry-on, and since Cotopaxi is technically an outdoors gear brand, the bag itself is reminiscent of that. The Allpa inherited innovation from that space, like a low-profile harness that helps evenly distribute the weight of the pack so it's comfortable to wear even when stuffed to the brim.

It also opens like a suitcase, so you don't have to waste time digging to the bottom of a traditional backpack.

There are many great selling points to the Allpa, but for a frequent traveler, it's the versatility, durability, comfort, and roomy design that are perhaps the best of the best.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack, available at Cotopaxi, $220

Note: This bundle is currently backordered



The most comfortable and supportive socks that you'll ever wear.

It might seem silly to have a favorite pair of travel socks, but to be fair they're my favorite pair of socks for anything. While traveling, though, you're likely on your feet for hours on end, and it's nice not to have to worry about soreness or blisters. The honeycomb support system on Bombas' socks took two years to design, and is just one upgrade that makes them the most comfortable pair you'll own. 

Shop Bombas entire selection here.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

Rich people are descending on Southern France for the Cannes Yachting Festival, where Bugattis are everywhere and the Champagne never stops

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cannes yachting festival

  • Cannes hosts the Cannes Yachting Festival every September.
  • The rich come from around the world to shop some of the sleekest yachts.
  • But there's more to the Cannes Yachting Festival than the boats — it's full of Champagne, luxury cars, designer wear, and more.

Luxury. Glamour. Prestige. Such is Cannes, seducer of the rich and famous.

Every September, the French Riviera city plays host to the Cannes Yachting Festival, where wealth and yachts collide for five days to kick off European boat show season. Cannes is always a great place for some superyacht spotting, but at the Cannes Yachting Festival, some of the world's sleekest yachts make their debut as buyers from around the world walk the docks to shop for them.

From the seven- to eight-figure superyachts and the luxury cars that circle the ports to champagne toasts and dapper duds, the Cannes Yachting Festival is an indulgence at best.

But what else would you expect with such a high-net worth clientele? After all, yachts over 100 feet cost $1 million per 3.3 feet, and owners can expect to spend about 10% of the purchase price annually on operating and maintaining a yacht.

But the extravagance doesn't stop at the docks — visitors keep it going throughout Cannes itself.

Here's how the wealthy enjoy the Cannes Yachting Festival.

SEE ALSO: I spent 3 years writing about yachts, and owning one takes way more money than you think

DON'T MISS: What a $1 million vacation looks like in Mykonos, Greece, where you'll fly in on a private jet, sleep in an ocean-view villa, and cruise the seas in a yacht

Located on the French Riviera, Cannes is a hot spot for the glitterati.

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It's best known for the Cannes Film Festival every May.

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But it's also home to the Cannes Yachting Festival, held from September 11 to September 16.

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8 of the countries where it's hardest to become a citizen

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  • Becoming a citizen in some countries is as easy as living there for a few years, but in others, it's nearly impossible.
  • In Qatar, you would have to be a legal resident for 25 years to be able to apply for citizenship, and if you're not a Muslim, you shouldn't even bother.
  • Here are eight of the countries where it's most difficult to become a citizen.

 

It seems like US citizenship and immigration restrictions have dominated the news since the 2016 presidential election. It turns out that there are a number of other countries where becoming a citizen is quite difficult.

Aside from ancestry and extended residency, one shortcut to foreign citizenship is being a top-level athlete. Some countries will give citizenship to athletes who will improve their chances of Olympic victory.

If you aren't a world-class pole vaulter, then you may face a long and, in some cases, nearly impossible road to gaining citizenship in countries like Switzerland, China, and Qatar.

Here are eight of the countries where it's most difficult to become a citizen.

SEE ALSO: How paid vacation time is different around the world

1. Vatican City

With about 800 residents and 450 citizens, Vatican City is the smallest country on Earth, perhaps partially because it has one of the toughest immigration policies on the planet.

According to the Library of Congress, you can become a citizen if you are a cardinal living in Vatican City or Rome, if you are a diplomat representing the Holy See, or if you live in Vatican City because you are an official of or worker for the Catholic Church



2. Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein, a tiny, mountainous country between Austria and Switzerland, has a population of just under 40,000 — and the country's immigration policy appears to aim to keep it small.

If you want to become a citizen, you need to live in Liechtenstein for at least 30 years, with each year before you turn 20 counting as two years. If you're married to a Liechtenstein citizen and already live in the country, that time period is shortened to five years of marriage.

If you want a shortcut from the 30-year residency requirement, you can ask your community to vote you in after 10 years

Regardless of method, you'll have to give up your current citizenship.



3. Bhutan

The Himalayan nation of Bhutan is known for measuring its success by its National Happiness Index rather than GDP. It is one of the most isolated countries in the world.

The country didn't open to tourism until 1974 and continues to regulate and monitor travel to the country closely, so you can imagine that the immigration process is not easy.

It takes two Bhutanese parents to be born a citizen, and if you only have one, you have to apply for naturalized citizenship after you have lived in Bhutan for 15 years. The 15-year requirement also applies to government employees.

Those with non-Bhutanese parents who don't work for the government may apply after living in the country for 20 years, as long as you meet a list of requirements, including no record of speaking or acting against the king or country. If you do that in the future, your citizenship can be rescinded.

Even if you meet the requirements, Bhutan reserves the right to reject you for any or no reason.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

Photos and videos show the flooding and devastation as Hurricane Florence hits North Carolina

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Florence scenes graphic

Hurricane Florence has arrived in the US, thrashing the East Coast with torrential rain, high winds, and massive floods.

The hurricane's center made landfall at Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, at 7.15 a.m. ET Friday morning.

Winds up to 80 mph are lashing the coast, and a storm surge of up to 11 feet is expected in some areas, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC). The storm could drop up to 40 inches of rain, causing "catastrophic" floods and a "life-threatening" situation, the NHC said.

So far, floods as deep as 6.3 feet and wind gusts as fast as 105 mph have been recorded.

Almost 300,000 people in North Carolina and South Carolina have lost power, with power companies expecting millions more to do so.

One hundred and fifty people in New Bern, North Carolina, are also trapped and awaiting government assistance.

Scroll down to see what the hurricane's impact looks like on the ground.

SEE ALSO: A North Carolina newsroom was evacuated while reporters were live on air covering Hurricane Florence

This was Wilmington, North Carolina, as the most ferocious part of the storm passed over on Friday morning.

 



The canopy of this BP petrol station in Topsail Beach, NC, was completely blown away.

 



This video, taken in Belhaven, NC on Thursday, shows water levels from the Pungo River reaching as high as people's windows.

 



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12 fall treats you need to try at Disney World

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Halloween

Caramel, pumpkins, and apples — oh my.

Fall is in the air, even in sunny Walt Disney World. Although the Florida weather may not let you whip out your flannel and boots quite yet, Disney World is home to many festive treats and spooky Halloween-themed sweets to help get you in the mood.

Here are 12 limited time treats definitely worth trying during your next visit.

Pumpkin spice beignets are a pumpkin lovers delight.

No matter where you go this season, the hottest flavor is pumpkin spice. Although you can get your PSL on at the Starbucks locations in the parks, Disney’s Port Orleans - French Quarter is taking pumpkin spice to the next level.

Available at the Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factoryare special pumpkin spice beignets. Each piece of golden fried dough is molded into the shape of Mickey and dusted with pumpkin spice and powder.  

These flavorful treats are a perfect way to get into the fall spirit and are priced at 3 for $4.49 or 6 for $6.99.



Get into the Halloween spirit with these cinnamon rolls.

Although each of the theme parks has a little something for the season, Magic Kingdom is the home for all spooky Halloween themed treats.

The Main Street Bakery is home to delicious Halloween cinnamon rolls. Each Mickey-shaped cinnamon roll is topped with orange icing and a chocolate spider web and is available from now until the end of October.

This festive treat is not only the perfect blend of fall flavors but it’s perfect to feature on your Instagram page.



You'll love every single bite of the Zero Waffle Sundae.

If you're a big fan of Tim Burton’s "The Nightmare Before Christmas," then the Sleepy Hollow in the Magic Kingdom has the perfect treat for you.

The Zero waffle sundae consists of two pumpkin waffles featuring an image of Zero and is topped with vanilla ice cream, sprinkles, and a caramel drizzle.

Although this spooky sundae won't be served daily until October 1, you can savor this sweet treat now atMickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, a ticketed special event held on select nights at the Magic Kingdom.



See the rest of the story at Business Insider

You can now shop J.Crew's affordable Mercantile line on Amazon with free Prime shipping — here are 12 of the best pieces

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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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  • J.Crew's budget-friendly Mercantile clothing line is now available on Amazon.
  • J.Crew Mercantile is the company's lower-cost brand that is typically found in J.Crew Factory stores, J.Crew Mercantile stores, and in some cases, online.
  • The new partnership between J.Crew Mercantile and Amazon means that customers now have greater access and purchasing options.
  • In addition to free shipping, Prime members who are subscribed to Prime Wardrobe can try on the clothing for free.

Last week, J.Crew became the latest big-name brand to start selling its clothing on Amazon. With a slightly different offering from the main J.Crew website, the Amazon storefront is only selling the company's budget-friendly brand, J.Crew Mercantile.

J.Crew Mercantile differs somewhat from J.Crew Factory in that the Mercantile line is sold in more places, like on the J.Crew website, Factory website, and in Mercantile stores. 

The decision to bring J.Crew Mercantile to Amazon makes the line even more accessible for Amazon's 100 million Prime members, who will no longer have to pay for shipping. In addition to free shipping, Prime members who are subscribed to Prime Wardrobe can try on any J.Crew Mercantile apparel before buying it.

J.Crew Mercantile's prices are almost all as low as the J.Crew Factory prices, making it a great option for stocking up on essentials. Everyday basics like jeans, sweatshirts, T-shirts, dresses, chinos, and button-ups are all apart of the selection. So, to help you start shopping from the new partnership, we rounded up 12 of the best pieces you can buy.

Shop J.Crew Mercantile on Amazon now.

Check out some of the best pieces you can buy, below:

J.Crew Mercantile Men's Long-Sleeve Chambray Shirt

J.Crew Mercantile Men's Long-Sleeve Chambray Shirt, $45



J. Crew Mercantile Women's Field Jacket

J. Crew Mercantile Women's Field Jacket, $89.50



J.Crew Mercantile Men's Utility Jacket

J.Crew Mercantile Men's Utility Jacket, $85



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Amazon and Apple don't provide employees with free lunches — here's where their employees go to eat instead

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Amazon Banana Stand

  • Amazon and Apple don't offer employees free food as a workplace benefit.
  • Free food is a popular perk among Silicon Valley giants — but the trend is starting to get major legislative pushback.
  • Apple does run a highly subsidized cafeteria at its Cupertino, California headquarters.
  • Employees at Amazon's Seattle base typically grab food at on-campus cafés, nearby restaurants, or the ever-present fleet of food trucks.


Amazon and Apple both bucked the Silicon Valley trend of providing employees with free food.

And now that California localities have begun introducing legislation meant to curtail free meals and boost local eateries, we might see more tech giants beginning to follow suit.

Let's take a look at how employees stay fueled throughout the day at Amazon and Apple: 

SEE ALSO: Even if free food is on its way out in Silicon Valley, there are 3 perks employees might care about more

SEE ALSO: 11 insane perks Amazon is offering its newest employees

SEE ALSO: 8 of the flashiest perks Apple employees get, from discounted iPhones to Maroon 5 concerts

Apple's signature dining space is the massive cafeteria in its Cupertino, California headquarters. The four-story space can hold 4,000 employees.

Source: Business Insider



And now, the cafeteria's massive glass doors can slide open to let light and fresh air stream into the buildings on sunny days.



But this striking setting doesn't offer up any free lunches.

Source: Business Insider



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What sausage looks like in 16 places around the world

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German Bratwurst sausages

It's an easy argument that the best part of traveling is the food. And while there are certain foods that are unique to each country, it can be great fun to chow down on a country's take on a food you're already familiar with.

There are so many foods that are universal in cuisines around the globe, and one such example is sausages. Sausages vary in shape, size, and flavor depending on where you're eating them, but the essence of a sausage remains the same.

From spicy to sweet, most countries seem to have their own version of sausage, just waiting to be tried. Here are what Extra Crispy and Bon Appetit rate as some of the best sausages from around the world to try.

1. A South Korean sundae won't involve any ice cream.

In South Korea, sundae, pronounced 'soondae,' is a popular sausage commonly offered as street food. It's created by boiling or steaming a pig or cow's intestines. That is then stuffed with noodles, blood, and spices.

It's common for ingredients like kimchi, rice, or soybean paste to also be added in.



2. Falukorv has been popular in Sweden since the 16th century.

Made with beef or pork, falukorv is a staple in Sweden. The beef or pork is mixed together with potato starch, onions, sugar, pork fat, and spices. It's a great snack as well because the sausage is precooked and can be eaten directly out of the package.



3. Bratwurst is the go-to sausage in Germany.

There's no denying that Germany is overflowing with options when it comes to sausages. Yet, even with so many to try, bratwurst is the clear favorite. Often made with pork, beef can be substituted in when necessary. Taken to another level, bratwurst is commonly paired with curry ketchup and fries to create the popular fast food currywurst.



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The 31 best — and wildest — celebrity looks from New York Fashion Week 2018

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laura dern saoirse ronan

Every fall, designers from all over the world gather in New York City to debut their Spring/Summer 2019 collections. 

This year, New York Fashion Week officially began on September 6 and wrapped up on September 12. As expected, some of the biggest names in Hollywood were spotted sitting in the front row at shows, walking the red carpet at exclusive industry events, and attending star-studded after-parties.

While many celebrities turned up wearing standout trends like pantsuits, metallics, and neon, others turned heads in daring looks that showed off their personal style. Below, see the 31 most memorable outfits stars wore to NYFW.

On September 5, Hailee Steinfeld stunned in a black jumpsuit with a plunging neckline at the Tom Ford show, which kicked off NYFW a day early.

The actress' catsuit is a piece from Ford's Fall 2018 ready-to-wear collection.

Steinfeld accessorized the look with two other Tom Ford designs: a zebra-print mini purse and a pair of velvet pumps with crystal-studded heels.

 



At the same show, model Salem Mitchell rocked an all-denim take on the pantsuit trend.

Mitchell's blazer featured structured shoulders, which complemented the pants' wide-leg design.



Model Slick Woods looked radiant at a kickoff party hosted by E!, Elle, and IMG Models on September 5.

One of the fashion world's biggest stars right now, Woods walked the red carpet in a black blazer by streetwear brand Seen, which she wore unbuttoned with no shirt underneath, and matching pants.

The model paired the iconic look with gold necklaces and mismatched slippers in purple and blue.



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8 things you should bring with you to every yoga class, according to the founder of one of the fastest growing yoga studio companies in the US

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Many factors, including your surroundings, your teacher, and your attitude, need to align in order for you to conduct a productive yoga practice. The equipment you bring and the clothes you wear to class are among the tools that will help you focus on your flow. 

Sarah Levey is the founder of one of the fastest growing companies in the country, Y7 Studio, where yogis practice in a candle-lit room to hip-hop music. Clearly knowledgeable about how to create a yoga experience that millennials love returning to, Levey gave us her top picks for the yoga gear and accessories you should always bring with you to class. 

Pack the following essentials in your bag and you'll be on your way to having a better yoga class experience. 

A refreshing facial mist

Cap Beauty The CAPtivator Energy Mist, $46, available at Nordstrom

"[This mist] is the best for a quick boost of energy before class." 

It features a blend of soothing scents like sandalwood, neroli, clary sage, gardenia, and lotus to put you in the right mood. A little goes a long way, and you can also spray it on your sheets and around your room. 

 



A comfortable, supportive yoga mat that doesn't slip

"These mats have more cushion and non-slip grip, which provide the best support for flowing in the heat."

They're eco-friendly, made from natural rubber, free from PVCs and synthetics, and Jade plants a tree for each one sold. 



Strong but gentle hair ties

Teleties Small 3-Pack, $7.95, available at American Eagle Outfitters

"I can go to and from the studio without messing up my hair." 

The coiled Teleties hair ties don't damage or leave any indentations in your hair after you take them out. You also won't get painful ponytail-induced headaches. 



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Hurricane Florence is bringing torrential rain, wind, and 6-foot floods to the Carolinas. Here's how you can help the victims.

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hurricane florence

Hurricane Florence is sweeping the Carolinas, with some models anticipating more than 50 inches of rain and 80 mph winds in certain areas.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC)'s predictions of both "catastrophic" flooding and "life-threatening" storm surges has kicked emergency relief efforts into high gear. Thus far, 1.7 million people have been required to leave their homes in the coastal areas of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia, and millions of homes have been put under official watch or warnings for extreme weather conditions.

Although its wind speed has weakened, the hurricane has increased in size, resulting in greater risk for a greater number of people.  So far, floods as deep as 6.3 feet and wind gusts as fast as 105 mph have been recorded.

For those looking to help, we've compiled a list of reputable organizations that are assisting in relief efforts.

While the Center for International Disaster Information (CIDI) says that monetary donations are the best way to provide aid, organizations like the American Red Cross and National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster are also accepting volunteers. The following list encompasses local, national, and international organizations offering a variety of services during the crisis. 

Note: It's not clear whether all of these organizations will spend 100% of donations received on hurricane relief and associated expenses. In past large-scale disasters, they have given high percentages of donations directly to victims, especially if there is a specific fund set up. To avoid scams, it's always good to research a group before donating by checking scores from independents groups like Charity Navigator and Charity Watch.

SEE ALSO: Hurricane Florence live updates The storm has made landfall, bringing 6-foot floods, heavy rain, and 80 mph winds to the Carolinas

General Aid: North Carolina Community Foundation

Since its inception in 1988, the North Carolina Community Foundation has offered $101 million worth of grants throughout the state. It currently serves 67 counties and is affiliated with 60 different foundations.

Visit their website to find out how you can donate to their relief efforts. The organization's grants focus on mid- to long-term recovery efforts and do not compete with the efforts of first responders. 



General Aid: Direct Relief

Direct Relief is an international humanitarian organization that serves more than 80 countries, including all 50 states in the US. They currently have a perfect score on Charity Watch, which evaluates their financial performance, accountability, and transparency. 

At the start of Hurricane Florence, the organization distributed hurricane-specific medicines and supplies in high-risk areas along the coast. They're also coordinating relief efforts with more than 200 healthcare partners in the area.



Hunger Relief: Harvest Hope Food Bank

Harvest Hope Food Bank is a regional organization serving residents in Columbia, Lexington, Greenville, and Florence, South Carolina. Their website allows you to donate meals to those affected by the crisis (just select "disaster relief" when you fill out their online form). A $10 donation could help provide 50 meals for hurricane victims.



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10 vegetarian and vegan meals that aren't as healthy as you think

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Veggie burgerSome people assume vegetarian or vegan meals are automatically healthier than meat-and dairy-based options. However, that's not always the case.

Many plant-based snacks and meals are actually highly processed, calorie-laden, or secretly harboring vast quantities of sugar and sodium.

Here are a few vegetarian and vegan dishes that might not be as healthy as you think.

1. Veggie burgers can actually have some questionable ingredients.

If you're opting for a veggie burger rather than a meat patty because you think it's the healthier choice, you should know the facts.

Most commercially produced veggie burgers are actuallyloaded with processed soy and preservatives, not to mention packed with sodium.

"If low-calorie, fiber-rich and nutrient-dense is what you're after,you're not going to get it in a veggie burger," said registered dietitian and nutritionist McKell Hill on Nutrition Stripped.

Make your own vegetable patties at home out of fresh, simple plant-based ingredients to be sure you're getting a healthy meal.



2. Yogurt parfaits are a misleading "healthy" choice.

You're in line at your local coffee shop and in desperate need of a snack. Instead of grabbing the nearest muffin, you select a granola-topped yogurt parfait. Healthy choice, right?

It turns out that many yogurt parfaits can have just as much sugar as a pastry. A fruit and yogurt parfait at one popular fast food chain has a whopping22 grams of sugar. When it's loaded with honey, sweetened granola, and sweetened fruit, a parfait can quickly become a sugar bomb.

 



3. That veggie burrito could be destroying your diet.

Think you're being healthy by skipping the fast food burger joint and sitting down to a big, vegetable-packed burrito?

Loading your vegetable burrito up with things like guacamole, cheese, beans, and sour cream can quickly elevate the calorie count.

Of course, calories aren't the only measure of health. It's also important to make sure you're getting essential vitamins and nutrients, but consuming too many calories for your needs can lead to health problems.

 



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These are the 10 best stadiums for tailgating

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minnesota vikings football fans

Football season is back, and there's no better way to celebrate than by tailgating at your favorite stadium.

But which ones boast the best food and the most dedicated fans?

Keep scrolling to see our list, which we based on fan ratings, interviews, and national rankings.

Buffalo Bills, New Era Field — Orchard Park, New York

New Era Field sits in Orchard Park, New York, and is one of two NFL stadiums located in a rural town, which makes the experience of tailgating there much more personable. Most tailgaters have been loyal fans of the Bills for many years, and have all gotten to know each other through their love of football.

A standout at Buffalo Bills tailgates is "Hammer's Lot," where a man called "Pinto Ron" cooks bacon on a saw while standing on his car. He also uses a helmet to make stir-fry, and a bowling ball to dispense shots.

And, as the birthplace of wings, you can expect some pretty tasty ones here.



Green Pay Packers, Lambeau Field — Green Bay, Wisconsin

Lambeau Field is considered a historic landmark in the NFL — some even say that Packers fans coined the term tailgating.

It's most famous for its Tundra Tailgate Zone, an area next to the stadium that, besides live music, food, and beer, featured giant monitors showing the games, meaning that tailgaters didn't even need tickets.

In fact, the area was so popular it grew into the Johnsonville Tailgate Village.



Denver Broncos, Mile High Stadium — Denver, Colorado

Denver Broncos fans don't mess around when it comes to tailgating, showing up in everything from converted school buses to limos, and brandishing everything from Broncos ice sculptures to shotskis.

They are also known to get creative, building covered patios on the back of their trucks, or "rooftop patios" on top of buses.



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10 accessories under $50 to help you get the most out of your Nintendo Switch

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AUKEY 20000mAh USB C Power Bank with 18W Power Delivery Battery Pack, 3 Outputs Portable Charger for iPhone 8:Plus:X, Nintendo Switch and More

Nintendo's Switch has been a runaway success that came just in the nick of time. The hybrid portable and home console has struck a chord with lapsed gamers who don't have enough spare time to sit in front of a TV for hours at a time, along with those who had migrated to playing games on their smartphone. 

As someone who's had a Nintendo Switch since the day it launched in March of 2017, I can personally attest to its ability to reinvigorate a long-dormant love of games.

But despite its popularity, the Switch isn't perfect: its battery only lasts between three and five hours when you're on-the-go, its screen can get scratched in your bag, it only has a limited amount of built-in storage, and Nintendo's first-party dock (which is what allows the Switch to connect to a TV) costs nearly $100.

The 10 accessories below can solve all of these problems (and more) without you having to spend more than $50. In many cases, you'll spend less than $30. With a few of these accessories you can keep your Switch protected, fully charged, and ready to hold a massive library of great games without breaking the bank.

SEE ALSO: The 7 best video games to lose yourself in this summer

DON'T MISS: The best gaming consoles you can buy

An extra power adapter you can bring with you anywhere

Nintendo Switch AC Adapter, $28.99, available at Amazon

Getting an extra power adapter will allow you to keep one plugged in at home, and take the other with you when you're on-the-go. I bought a second power adapter to keep in my travel bag, and it's really nice to be able to take my Switch on trips with me without having to remember to pack a charger.



A Nintendo Switch Online Membership Card so you can play games online

Nintendo Switch Online 12-Month Membership, $19.99, available at Amazon

Nintendo recently announced the Switch's online service, which officially launches on September 18. A membership to the service will be required to play Switch games online, but it also comes with a bunch of perks, including access to 20 retro Nintendo games, exclusive deals, and the ability to keep save data for your games in the cloud. 

This membership card grants you a year's worth of access to the service, so you won't have to input your credit card data into your console. 



A third party dock that lets you inexpensively hook up your Switch to a second TV

Insignia™ - Dock Kit with HDMI and USB for Nintendo Switch, $39.99, available at Best Buy

To connect your Nintendo Switch to a TV you're going to need a docking station, which both powers the console and outputs its video signal over HDMI. Nintendo's official dock costs nearly $100, which makes transporting your Switch between two TVs very costly.

Instead, you should use Insignia's Dock Kit, which does the same thing, but costs half the price. I've been using this dock kit for nearly a year, and it's the best Nintendo Switch accessory I own.



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NFL Week 2 betting guide — Our best bets

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Gambling will gut you.

After years of preparation, in 2018 I finally got the courage to put down a significant amount of money along with my cousin to join the Westgate SuperContest.

Last Sunday was the first time my picks actually mattered — if I had the best gambling year of my life, I'd have a shot at splitting a $1.5 million grand prize with my cousin. I was ready to live the fantasy.

Then my picks went 1-4. Gross. Even worse, those losses came in a myriad of gut-punching ways. The Giants were an inch away from scoring a two-point conversion that would've saved me a loss, and the Steelers somehow blew a 14-point lead to the Browns to settle in a tie.

Thankfully, not all my bets were losers. We hit our moneyline underdog with the Chiefs beating the Chargers outright, an easy two-team teaser with the help of the Ravens and Vikings, and also cashed our Monday Night Chaser. Even with a brutal stretch of SuperContest picks, I survived with my bankroll intact.

There's only one thing to do after a rough week — dust yourself off, check your wallet, and charge back in.

Below are our picks for Week 2 of the Westgate SuperContest, along with some of our other favorite bets on the slate.

SuperContest Pick 1: Indianapolis Colts (+6) over Washington Redskins

Week 2 is all about avoiding overreaction, and this line looks about three points too high based on where it would've been before the Redskins big win in Arizona to start the season. I think that game spoke more to the Cardinals deficiencies than anything else, and while Indianapolis won't be world-beaters this year, they can certainly keep pace with Washington.

Andrew Luck can basically will the Colts offense to 20 points or so on his own, and the Redskins haven't won their home opener in four years.



SuperContest Pick 2: Atlanta Falcons (-6) over Carolina Panthers

Despite a disappointing performance against the Eagles in Week 1, this feels like a great spot for the Falcons to bounce back to get their 2018 campaign on track.

Matt Ryan and the Atlanta offense shot themselves in the foot time and time again against Philadelphia, coming up short in the red zone on several crucial possessions. That's a testament to the Eagles defense, and while red zone struggles have been a theme for the Falcons, the Carolina defense they'll face on Sunday is not at the Eagles' level.

Atlanta hasn't lost to the Panthers at home since 2014, and with Carolina stuck recovering from several key injuries, I think the Falcons do enough to cover here.



SuperContest Pick 3: Pittsburgh Steelers (-4) over Kansas City Chiefs

This is another great example of an overreaction game. The Steelers looked awful in their Week 1 tie with the Browns, blowing a 14-point fourth quarter lead to a team that hadn't won a football game in close to two years. Meanwhile, Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs now possess the greatest offense the world has ever seen.

I don't buy it.

Whenever the public is all over one side of a bet, it's usually best to go the other way, especially when the public falls in love with an underdog. According to the Action Network, 75% of bettors have taken the Chiefs in this game, which is right now the most heavily bet game of the board.

Look for the Steelers to bounce back at home — I'm not saying it will be easy, but I think they figure out a way to win by a touchdown.



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