The first manned flight with SpaceX's Crew Dragon capsule, which aims to allow astronauts to travel between Earth and the International Space Station (ISS), is set to take place in early 2020.
In the meantime, NASA has publicly released an app, "Rocket Science: Ride to Station."
The app lets users experience a takeoff aboard a vessel like SpaceX's Crew Dragon or Boeing's CST-100 Starliner.
We tested the app to see how a manned flight aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon would look.
The first manned flight with SpaceX's Crew Dragon capsule, which aims to allow astronauts to travel between Earth and the International Space Station (ISS), is set to take place in early 2020.
If all goes smoothly, it could even take place in the first quarter of the year, according to comments made by NASA administrator, Jim Bridenstine, in a Reuters report.
In the meantime, NASA has publicly released an app, "Rocket Science: Ride to Station" that allows users to get a better understanding of what it's like to experience a takeoff aboard a vessel like SpaceX's Crew Dragon or Boeing's CST-100 Starliner.
The app takes you through the different stages of preparation for takeoff, allowing you to choose between the two vessels, to choose which type of mission you'd like to complete, to select your own crew, to witness the takeoff and the different stages of the launch, before proceeding to the docking — in manual or automatic mode — to the ISS.
As well as iOS, the game is also available on desktop.
While the app isn't designed to provide a realistic flight simulation with sensory and tactile sensations, it definitely offers a good overview of how a manned launch would work.
We tested the app to see how a manned flight aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon would look.
The first thing you need to do is choose a difficulty level.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Docking at the ISS will be more complicated if you choose a higher difficulty level.
We chose the easy level.
Then choose one of the two capsules that will take you aboard the ISS.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The SpaceX Crew Dragon and the Boeing CST-100 Starliner have a lot in common: they're both reusable, can carry up to seven passengers and dock automatically to the ISS.
Unlike the Crew Dragon, the Starliner has to land on firm ground on its return to Earth rather than in the ocean.
You can then choose your mission and crew members.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
As well as choosing to repair solar panels, you're given the option to perform lab experiments, deploy micro-satellites using a robotic arm, and to perform an extra-vehicular maintenance release to repair or install new equipment on the ISS.
You then have to choose the four members of your crew.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The astronauts' personalities are also taken into account to form a cohesive and solid group.
Bernard Comet, who works for a subsidiary of the National Center for Space Studies (CNES), told Business Insider that, to form crews for successful missions, "we look at their psychometrics, their behavior within group dynamics and, for example, we select median personalities; not highly emotional personalities".
For example, to carry out a mission involving growing food in space, you'll need members with knowledge of biology, medicine, and physics.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
For long-term exploration missions, such as on Mars, we'll eventually need to find new ways to grow potatoes, for example.
This is because we won't be able to transport enough food from Earth.
The app also gives you a breakdown of how a rocket is structured.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Users can get a better appreciation for the different components of a missile, from the nose cone to the body and everything in between.
The app actually lets you assemble a rocket yourself.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Using a simple drag-and-drop method, you can put the rocket together yourself.
Once the Falcon 9 launcher is ready, head for NASA's 39A launchpad.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Once you've put together the rocket, you can get ready for for take-off.
If the weather conditions are favorable, takeoff won't be postponed.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
As weather conditions are favorable this time, the launch isn't postponed.
The Falcon 9 is flying!
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
As well as interesting perspectives of the rocket flying, you also get a "well done" message once the rocket successfully takes off.
The app also offers a realistic demonstration of what would happen to the rocket in space.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
In real life, the rocket separates in various stages. You can see this take place within the app.
The app's attention to detail is impressive.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The depiction of how the disassembly of the rocket would work is very thorough.
Here, you can see the nose separation.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Sometimes the nose cone is simply used to protect the satellite until it reaches orbital speed before it then separates from the rest of the rocket.
Then there is the docking stage.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
In the app, you have the choice to perform this maneuver either in automatic or in manual mode.
Depending on the difficulty level you choose, this final step will vary in its complexity.
For the docking to succeed, the target in the middle has to be green.
When you've completed the docking, the game comes to an end.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
At the end of the game, you'll get a message welcoming you aboard the ISS!
Project xCloud is a new video game streaming service from Microsoft that lets gamers stream any Xbox One game directly to an Android phone.
During its test period, Project xCloud is giving users access to dozens of free games in Microsoft's cloud, or they can stream their own collection from their Xbox at home.
Project xCloud uses technology similar to Google's Stadia, another streaming video game service that launched earlier this week. However, Google is asking Stadia users to spend $130 to access the service, and users only have access to about 20 games — many of which are being sold at full price.
Microsoft is positioning Project xCloud as a supplement to its existing Xbox business, while Google is hoping that gamers will ditch their home consoles in favor of its streaming-only Stadia service.
Streaming is the future of video games — no less than five major companies are testing or have already launched cloud gaming services that can stream blockbuster games directly to Android phones, laptops, and other devices.
Earlier this week Google launched Stadia, an ambitious streaming-only video game platform meant to challenge industry juggernauts like Microsoft and Sony. Google claims that Stadia will eliminate the need for expensive Xbox and PlayStation consoles, telling Stadia users that they will have access to 4K graphics and the strongest possible computers thanks to Google's breakthrough streaming technology.
Microsoft's video game streaming service, Project xCloud, entered beta tests just a few weeks ago with a very different approach. Google has lauded Stadia as the next step for the gaming industry, but Project xCloud is designed to supplement Microsoft's hardware business and give gamers more ways to access the existing Xbox ecosystem.
Together, Microsoft and Google are giving us an early look at how competition between cloud gaming services could shape the way we play games.
Stadia works, but there's a long list of drawbacks
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Early impressions of Stadia have been mixed.
Gaining access to the service requires a $130 investment. Early adopters get a Stadia controller, two free games, and three months of Stadia's premium 4K streaming service. Stadia launched with 22 available titles, and users are expected to buy games to expand their collection. However, those games constantly require an internet connection to play, and can only be played on three types of devices — computers, Google's Chromecast Ultra, and Google's Pixel phones.
Stadia reviews described the service as generally stable, but overall less consistent than playing on a traditional video game console. Technical tests showed that Stadia's streaming tech resulted in slightly delayed controls, and some games were streaming in a lower quality than their Xbox counterparts.
Stadia also lacks many of the robust community features that allow players on Xbox and PlayStation to communicate and play with each other.
Google wants you to invest in Stadia instead of buying the new PlayStation and Xbox consoles next year, but the experience doesn't compare yet.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Considering all the early drawbacks, Stadia feels subpar in comparison to the current PlayStation and Xbox consoles, and it seems unlikely that the experience will improve beyond what the PlayStation 5 and Microsoft's new Xbox will offer when they're released next fall.
Google is essentially asking gamers to start over from scratch when they come to Stadia — you have to build a new friends list and buy a new collection of games in exchange for having portable access to your games. However, because your library is tied to an internet connection, the quality and convenience will vary greatly based on your location.
Project xCloud doesn't promise 4K streaming, but it has twice as many games as Stadia, for free.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
While Google believes Stadia can outmatch the PlayStation and Xbox hardware, Microsoft wants Project xCloud to bring new players into the existing Xbox ecosystem.
Project xCloud will lower the entry cost for gamers who may only own a smartphone, and leverages the well-known Xbox catalogue to draw players with free games. The Project xCloud app is available on all Android devices, and Microsoft will launch the service on PC early next year. New users are being added to the service on a rolling basis.
As an added bonus, gamers who already own an Xbox can stream from their home console and access all the games they already own. Project xCloud is already a part of the Xbox Live network too, so players can use their existing profiles and save data as soon as they start streaming.
Microsoft's streaming technology is far from flawless, but Project xCloud is positioned as an alternative to console gaming, not a replacement. Gamers can continue to invest in Xbox as a platform and gradually explore Project xCloud as the service grows, without spending hundreds on streaming-only software that may become useless in a few years.
It's unclear how Microsoft will monetize Project xCloud, but the company said it will work in conjunction with other Xbox services. Microsoft has been steadily expanding Xbox Game Pass, a monthly subscription service offering hundreds of games, and its likely that Game Pass titles will eventually be available for streaming via xCloud.
Project xCloud isn't about turning your phone into an Xbox, it just brings the best of Xbox to your phone.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Project xCloud is impressive because it builds on the greatest strengths of the Xbox brand. The app gives players access to dozens of free and exclusive games, immediately connects them with millions of existing Xbox players, and lets players make use of their own Xbox hardware.
In an interview with Business Insider, Microsoft's vice president of cloud gaming said the company isn't too concerned with bringing 4K streaming to phones. Instead, Microsoft is more focused on making Project xCloud a stable experience across all devices.
The competition between Microsoft and Google is less about who has the superior technology, and more about who has a stable business model. As it stands, Microsoft can bide its time and see how interest in Project xCloud develops over the next year, while Google will be left to compete with the new Xbox and whatever the finished version of xCloud looks like.
Video game streaming still has a long way to go, and there's no sure path yet.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Google and Microsoft aren't the only players in the video game streaming space. Sony, NVIDIA, and Electronic Arts are all looking to secure longterm footholds in the streaming business too.
Each service has strengths and weaknesses, but the goal is to bring in as many players as possible. However, there are some structural changes to overcome, like the limitations of 4G data networks, and the massive amount of data video game streaming uses.
Ultimately it's unclear if streaming video games will revolutionize gaming in the way that streaming video changed television. After decades of building an industry around premium console launches, collectible hardware, and platform exclusive games, getting gamers to fully embrace streaming will require a major cultural shift.
These massive companies made millions — in some cases, billions — in profits in 2018, but didn't pay a dime in federal income taxes.
Tax cuts passed by the Trump administration in 2017 have made it much easier for the big corporations like Amazon, IBM, and Netflix avoid paying income taxes.
Most of the companies on this list earned tax rebates larger than their income tax, effectively seeing a negative tax rate.
In theory, the US imposes a 21% tax rate on corporations. In reality, the amount major corporations are paying is far lower.
Amazon, for example, earned over $10 billion in income in 2018. But by taking advantage of tax credits, the company zeroed out its income taxes and earned a rebate of $129 million, according to tax filings published by the Securities and Exchange Commission.
It has become much easier for massive corporations to avoid paying federal income tax in recent years. The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, one of the most significant legislative achievements by Republicans and President Donald Trump since his election, opens new windows for tax rebates for major corporations.
The Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, a nonprofit think tank, analyzed SEC filings of Fortune 500 companies and identified 60 major corporations that didn't pay any federal income taxes in 2018. Of those, 11 do business in the tech or transportation industries.
"These tax loopholes allow many profitable corporations to avoid paying a single dime in taxes, but it should also be noted that many other profitable corporations are also using these special breaks to pay far less than the 21 percent statutory federal income tax rate," Matthew Gardner, a lead author of the ITEP report, wrote.
Here are 11 massive tech and transportation companies that didn't pay any federal income taxes last year — negative tax rates indicate that companies got more money back in rebates than they had to pay in taxes.
In a statement to Business Insider, a spokesperson for Activision Blizzard emphasized that the company paid other taxes beyond the federal income tax, including state taxes, ultimately spending millions of dollars total on taxes.
"We did not receive a tax refund in the U.S. for 2018," the spokesperson said.
Amazon
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
2018 US income: $10.8 billion
Federal tax after rebates: -$129 million
Effective tax rate: -1%
An Amazon spokesperson noted that Amazon paid billions in taxes other than the federal income taxes, including state and local taxes, and added that Amazon has brought its total US workforce to more than 250,000.
"Amazon pays all the taxes we are required to pay in the US and every country where we operate, including paying $2.6 billion in corporate tax and reporting $3.4 billion in tax expense over the last three years," the spokesperson said. "Corporate tax is based on profits, not revenues, and our profits remain modest given retail is a highly competitive, low-margin business and our continued heavy investment."
Delta Airlines
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
2018 US income: $5 billion
Federal tax after rebates: -$187 million
Effective tax rate: -4%
A spokesperson for Delta did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
General Motors
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
2018 US income: $4.32 billion
Federal tax after rebates: -$104 million
Effective tax rate: -2%
A spokesperson for GM did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Goodyear
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
2018 US income: $440 million
Federal tax after rebates: -$15 million
Effective tax rate: -3%
A spokesperson for Goodyear did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
IBM
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
2018 US income: $500 million
Federal tax after rebates: -$342 million
Effective tax rate: -68%
A spokesperson for IBM did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
JetBlue
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
2018 US income: $219 million
Federal tax after rebates: -$60 million
Effective tax rate: -27%
A spokesperson for JetBlue did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Netflix
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
2018 US income: $856 million
Federal tax after rebates: -$22 million
Effective tax rate: -3%
A spokesperson for Netflix did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Pitney Bowes
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
2018 US income: $125 million
Federal tax after rebates: -$50 million
Effective tax rate: -40%
In a statement to Business Insider, a spokesperson for Pitney Bowes emphasized that, while its federal income tax was zeroed out by rebates, the company still paid other taxes totaling approximately $127 million in 2016, $53 million in in 2017, and $26 million in 2018. The spokesperson added that the company's taxes lowered following the sale of its production mail business last year.
Salesforce
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
2018 US income: $800 million
Federal tax after rebates: Not immediately available.*
*In its report, the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy notes that some companies' vague language in their 10-K annual financial filings makes it difficult to calculate the exact size of their rebates. ITEP notes that Salesforce disclosed $132 million in "tax credits," but doesn't go into more detail.
A spokesperson for Salesforce did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Tech Data
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
2018 US income: $210 million
Federal tax after rebates: -$10 million
Effective tax rate: -5%
A spokesperson for Tech Data did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University is ranked fourth in the world by The Economist, sixth by US News, and third by Forbes.
It costs a total of $151,815 for tuition and fees for two-year MBA students. This number is comparable to the average salaries of graduates in consulting and finance.
Here are the average salaries of Kellogg graduates, in order of increasing compensation.
Even though MBA application numbers are declining, students continue to be highly qualified — and make considerable sums of money when they graduate.
The graduates of the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University's class of 2019 are no exception. Students at this highly ranked institution (fourth in the world by The Economist, sixth by US News, and third by Forbes) enter lucrative industries post-graduation.
Most of them go into careers in finance, consulting, or technology.
Kellogg's graduating class had 682 students, ranging from 25 to 38 years of age at graduation. A majority were two-year MBA students (478 students), and 40% of the graduating class consisted of women.
Here are the industries these students entered after graduation, ranked by average base salary.
For 20 days this fall, I wore a device that tracks my blood sugar in real time, in the hope that it would help me find ways to boost my performance and energy through changes to my diet and exercise.
While it was exciting to learn which foods sent my blood sugar soaring and which didn't, I mostly found out that in fact my body processes blood sugar the way it's supposed to when working out or after a big meal.
I still learned a lot about my body, and by the end, I was bummed I had to take it off.
For a few weeks this fall, I had a pretty good idea of what was going on in my pancreas at any given time.
That's because I was wearing a continuous glucose monitor, or CGM. The device uses a wire inserted into my skin to get an idea of the amount of blood sugar, or glucose, found in my blood.
It's a prescription device typically used by people managing diabetes, both Type 1 and Type 2, conditions in which it's harder to regulate the amount of blood sugar present in the body.
For those managing diabetes, checking on blood sugar levels is an important part of managing the condition, and it can be done either with periodic glucose meter readings taken by finger prick or with continuous monitors like those made by Dexcom, Abbott, or Medtronic.
The one I tested out: A Dexcom G6, a version of Dexcom's CGM that got approved in March 2018.
To be sure, I'm not the intended user of a CGM.
"Ultimately, the whole goal is to prevent low blood sugars and to ensure that you can prevent low blood sugars while achieving glycemic control,"Dr. Adrian Vella, an endocrinologist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota told me.
That's important if you're managing diabetes. The device hasn't been studied for use in people who don't have diabetes.
"There's no data to guide us on how to use it in a healthy person," Vella said.
But for years, I'd been eager to see what I could learn from tracking my blood sugar as a person who isn't living with diabetes.
I've tried a number of stress trackers and put on my fair share of step, sleep, and heart-rate tracking devices. Each time I took off a device I was reviewing or testing, I didn't feel a burning desire to put it back on.
But my blood sugar levels, I thought, might reveal more information that could help me hack my diet, exercise routines, and hopefully energy levels. And I'm not the only one — Silicon Valley biohackers have also been keen users of the technology in the hopes of improving their performance.
What I learned wasn't exactly the case. While it was exciting to see which foods sent my blood sugar soaring and which didn't, I mostly found out that in fact my body processes blood sugar the way it's supposed to when working out or after a big meal.
Even so, I was addicted to checking out my blood sugar levels while wearing it, and oddly miss it now that I've used up my sensors.
Here's what it was like to use.
First, a little about me: I'm a 26-year-old who doesn't have diabetes. I just spent the past few months training for the New York City Marathon, a race I ran with my dad (pictured).
I've been covering diabetes closely over the past few years, in particular because of the issues around the skyrocketing cost of insulin, a drug used to help those living with diabetes process the blood sugar in their bodies. The 1.25 million people in the US who have Type 1 diabetes need to inject insulin to live.
Through my reporting, I've heard a lot about CGMs, or continuous glucose monitors, a device many living with type 1 and type 2 diabetes use to help them manage the conditions.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
I'd also spoken with a number of people who don't have diabetes who had worn the devices for periods of time. They told me anecdotal incidents of how using the device changed their eating habits in particular. Seeing the spike in blood sugar for instance after eating a bagel swore them off the delicious carbohydrate-loaded bake.
So when I was offered the chance to try one myself, I jumped at it. Dexcom sent me its G6 device to test out. It came with a device that would implant my sensor, a device that'd pick up readings from that sensor, and an optional monitor I could use to see whether my blood sugar was going up or down. I instead opted to use my phone. I was given two sensors, and each would last me 10 days.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
At first, I was a little daunted by all the equipment, so I recruited my colleague Rachel Gillett, who has type 1 diabetes and has been my in-office CGM expert, to help walk me through it. I downloaded the app, watched some training videos, and figured out where I wanted my sensor to go.
Before I could put it on, I needed to link the sensor up with my phone by scanning a code on the back.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Next, I pulled off the top layer, exposing the adhesive surface I'd place against my skin.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
With Rachel's help, I lined it up on the back of my arm.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
...and with a click of a button on the top, a needle pierced my arm, leaving behind a wire that would keep an eye on my blood sugar levels. In less than a second, the needle was out of my arm.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Next, I slid in the transmitter that would help the sensor communicate with my phone. My sensor would expire after 10 days, but the transmitter can be used with more than one sensor, so I had to be sure to keep it when getting rid of the sensor.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Just like that, I was ready to go. The sensor took a few hours to calibrate, and once it was all set up, it told me that my blood sugar was dangerously low. With Rachel's help, I checked my blood sugar using a finger-prick and used that information to calibrate my CGM.
When I was done, I had to throw the plastic applicator in the trash. Dexcom CEO Kevin Sayer said that while there isn't a recycling program in place now, the company will create one, and it's also working to make the device smaller, or potentially reusable.
With that, I was off and running. I didn't feel the CGM very much after the first day, only remembering it when I'd accidentally snag it when getting dressed.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The first week, I kept my diet pretty standard: I typically have a banana in the morning, snacks or a meal around noon, and then I try to eat a full meal around 7 p.m. in the evening. On my second day, I had a beer with my meal at one of my favorite barbecue restaurants and was surprised to find that my blood sugar levels fell like crazy. Here's a look at the moment my blood sugar fell after my beer.
I would have thought that my blood sugar spiked, giving the carbohydrates in beer. But it turns out there's a "decreased endogenous glucose production" after drinking alcohol, a fancy way of saying that my body wasn't making as much blood sugar in reaction to the alcohol in my system.
I was curious to see what other foods might send my blood sugar levels spiking or crashing, so a few days later I convinced some of my colleagues to join me for an afternoon milkshake run.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Eager to show them what I learned, I texted them a screenshot of my post-milkshake spike. Even if I was a bit underwhelmed, it was still cool to see the reaction.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
I spoke with Henrik Berggren, the cofounder and CEO of Steady Health, a startup that's building a tech-enabled clinic for diabetes care. Berggren himself has type 1 diabetes and has been using a CGM. He passed along the advice that the interesting insights from CGMs come when you start to compare responses, rather than seeing what ice cream can do to your system like I did.
"You already know those things are bad for you," Berggren said.
The more interesting observations come in quantifying what I have worse reactions to (in this case, dramatic spikes in blood sugar levels) compared to others.
Take breakfast — what would a banana do to my blood sugar compared with a granola bar, compared to fasting until noon? Over the next few weeks, I'd do a bit of that, but not enough to make me change my morning eating habits.
But it wasn't just reactions to food I was eager to learn more about. I had a marathon coming up after all, and I was curious if I could use my blood sugar readings from the CGM to boost my energy in moments when I was feeling low. On a long run that weekend, I packed some Sour Patch Kids for instant hits of sugar. Whenever I noticed my blood sugar was dipping lower, I ate a few gummies.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
But at the end of 11 miles, I wasn't able to boost my blood sugar levels in any meaningful way. I texted my husband a snapshot of my results with my disappointment.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The way our bodies react to exercise can differ, even between activities.
Berggren said he found that when he wore a CGM he learned a lot more about how his body reacts to certain types of exercise, which helps him better administer insulin that keeps his blood sugar from going too high.
For instance, compared to activities like running, an activity like basketball would make his blood sugar spike, so he learned to take more ahead of getting onto the court.
I thought I could ascribe my 3 p.m. energy slump to crashing blood sugar levels. But when I'd look at my blood sugar levels, they'd be holding steady after my body was done processing my lunch. (Even so, I'd often give myself the excuse to go for an afternoon snack).
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Turns out, the body is more complicated than I had initially thought. Blood sugar levels don't exactly correlate to energy levels.
There are other factors, like caffeine intake, hormones, how well I slept the night before, how hydrated I am, and general feelings of procrastination, that could contribute to my afternoon slump.
And even in cases when my blood sugar stays low, like while running long distances, it doesn't mean I'm out of fuel.
"I like to tell patients that the body is like a hybrid car," Vella said. Using the hybrid analogy, Vella explained that you can either run the body on gas or electric (in our case carbohydrates or fat). So just because your blood sugar is low doesn't mean your body is out of energy.
I noticed some interesting changes in my blood sugar while I was sleeping. About the time I'd go to bed, my blood sugar would creep up (promise I wasn't sneaking any late night snacks). I also saw a little pick-up in my blood sugar level around 3 a.m. — a well-known phenomena known as the "Dawn Effect."
Before I knew it, my sensor was about to expire. It had been fun to wear. I got some odd looks when people saw it, and once a man stopped me excitedly on the subway to ask if it was "the new Fitbit." When I explained it was tracking my blood sugar, he was apologetic (understandable, as it's typically used in a medical context and isn't a consumer health gadget).
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
I put on another one a few days before the marathon, this time opting to put it on my stomach (the place Dexcom recommends placing it). I found it a little trickier to maneuver with high-waisted jeans, but I didn't snag it as much as when I had it on my arm.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The day of the marathon, I was eager to see what might happen with my blood sugar levels. That morning in Staten Island, I ate a bagel, drank coffee, and had a banana (the first spike of the day). Later, I nervously ate a Stroopwafel (the second spike). That incredibly flat line starting around 10:30 is from while I was running. I had thought the Gatorade I had grabbed every two miles or so would send my blood sugar spiking, but it didn't appear to make any difference.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
After the marathon, I still had my CGM on, and I noticed a big spike in my blood sugar around the same time my nose spontaneously started bleeding (in the middle of some breaking news if you can believe it!)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
After I took off my second sensor, I looked back at the data I collected.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
On the whole, my numbers looked pretty good. I hadn't experienced too many crazy big changes in my blood sugar and stayed pretty consistent day after day.
At the end, though, what I found myself taking away from the experience was that my pancreas was working just as it should.
Vella, the endocrinologist, told me that it may not be particularly useful information for healthy people like me if outside a study. While someone living with type 1 might find out what insulin dose they should administer before a workout with the help of a CGM, my takeaways weren't as clear cut.
Even so, some doctors have found a use for it in their clinical work.
"For me it's a wonderful tool to make sense of the puzzle," said Dr. George Haddad, the chief medical officer of the P4 Medicine Institute in Seattle.
As he brings on new patients in his practice, he'll give them a CGM to wear, which helps him better understand how their body reacts to carbohydrates.
Still, if I could've put in another sensor, I would've. I would love to test out the differences in my blood sugar levels while training and while not training. I never got a chance to see what happens when I eat Chinese takeout, which I'm told can send blood sugar levels soaring.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
At the same time, I won't miss worrying about where my blood sugar is at any given moment. I'd be alerted if my blood sugar fell below the parameters I had set on the app. The alerts would get pretty annoying, and I'd find myself giving myself the excuse to have a little snack just to stop the alerts, even though I inherently knew they weren't a problem.
Much like checking a social media app, I found myself constantly opening my Dexcom app to see where my numbers were, thinking through if there was anything I needed to do about them, which, of course, wasn't necessary.
My blood sugar had behaved that way before I put on the device and would continue to after I took it off. When I'm not wearing the device, I don't have that concern on my brain at all.
While I'd imagine the main uses for CGMs will continue to be in managing diabetes, with some popularity among the Silicon Valley biohacking crowd, I'll be curious if there's a world in which glucose monitoring becomes more popular among people without diabetes.
It'll likely take more research in people who don't have diabetes, and potentially even less-invasive options that resemble a step or sleep tracker with no needles involved.
Overall, the Western part of the US has historically been a big destination for Americans seeking opportunity.
But not every part of the West has recently been benefiting from that historical trend.
Using data from the Census Bureau's Population Estimates program, we found the metropolitan areas located in the Western states with the most negative net migration between 2010 and 2018, adjusted by the size of the 2010 metro area population.
Net migration measures the number of people who moved into the metro area from some other part of the US or another country, minus the number of people who left the metro area over that period. That means the cities on our list saw many more people move out since 2010 than move in.
Here are the 20 Western cities with the most net outmigration as a share of the 2010 population:
20. Merced, California, had a net population loss from migration of 1,666 between 2010 and 2018 — 0.7% of the metro's 2010 population of 255,793.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
19. Pocatello, Idaho, had a net population loss from migration of 647 between 2010 and 2018 — 0.8% of the metro's 2010 population of 82,839.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
18. Fresno, California, had a net population loss from migration of 10,112 between 2010 and 2018 — 1.1% of the metro's 2010 population of 930,450.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
17. Yuba City, California, had a net population loss from migration of 1,815 between 2010 and 2018 — 1.1% of the metro's 2010 population of 166,892.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
16. Bakersfield, California, had a net population loss from migration of 10,776 between 2010 and 2018 — 1.3% of the metro's 2010 population of 839,631.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
15. Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, California, had a net population loss from migration of 10,891 between 2010 and 2018 — 1.3% of the metro's 2010 population of 823,318.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
14. Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, California, had a net population loss from migration of 226,757 between 2010 and 2018 — 1.8% of the metro's 2010 population of 12,828,837.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
13. Las Cruces, New Mexico, had a net population loss from migration of 3,755 between 2010 and 2018 — 1.8% of the metro's 2010 population of 209,233.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
12. Honolulu, Hawaii, had a net population loss from migration of 19,098 between 2010 and 2018 — 2.0% of the metro's 2010 population of 953,207.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
11. Madera, California, had a net population loss from migration of 3,700 between 2010 and 2018 — 2.5% of the metro's 2010 population of 150,865.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
10. Great Falls, Montana, had a net population loss from migration of 2,252 between 2010 and 2018 — 2.8% of the metro's 2010 population of 81,327.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
9. Salinas, California, had a net population loss from migration of 12,323 between 2010 and 2018 — 3.0% of the metro's 2010 population of 415,057.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
8. Visalia-Porterville, California, had a net population loss from migration of 14,597 between 2010 and 2018 — 3.3% of the metro's 2010 population of 442,179.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
7. Anchorage, Alaska, had a net population loss from migration of 13,566 between 2010 and 2018 — 3.6% of the metro's 2010 population of 380,821.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
6. Yakima, Washington, had a net population loss from migration of 9,471 between 2010 and 2018 — 3.9% of the metro's 2010 population of 243,231.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
5. El Centro, California, had a net population loss from migration of 9,701 between 2010 and 2018 — 5.6% of the metro's 2010 population of 174,528.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
4. Sierra Vista-Douglas, Arizona, had a net population loss from migration of 7,484 between 2010 and 2018 — 5.7% of the metro's 2010 population of 131,346.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
3. Fairbanks, Alaska, had a net population loss from migration of 8,736 between 2010 and 2018 — 9.0% of the metro's 2010 population of 97,581.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
2. Farmington, New Mexico, had a net population loss from migration of 11,873 between 2010 and 2018 — 9.1% of the metro's 2010 population of 130,044.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
1. Hanford-Corcoran, California, had a net population loss from migration of 14,567 between 2010 and 2018 — 9.5% of the metro's 2010 population of 152,982.
Recession warnings are fading from their summer peaks, and stocks are set for another run-up as investors rush to participate in another rally, Morgan Stanley senior portfolio manager Andrew Slimmon said in an interview.
The volatility that previously came from trade war headlines has dulled, and Wall Street "has finally keyed into what's going on," he said.
Slimmon pointed to recent years as precedent for how the S&P 500 performs after a negative year.
The index saw two years of accelerating growth following 2011 and 2015 slumps, and Slimmon noted the market's performance through 2019 has matched the pattern.
However, Slimmon is less optimistic beyond year-end. He says the S&P 500's strong returns this year could cap upside in 2020, while multiple factors point to a possible recession in 2021.
Recession fears are cooling from their summer highs, and stocks are poised for another run-up as the historic expansion continues, according to Morgan Stanley Senior Portfolio Manager Andrew Slimmon.
A slew of ingredients, including third-quarter earnings, trade war optimism, and positive economic data recently drove new records for the three major US stock indexes. Many investors who were holding less volatile assets now fear they could miss out on the market's next rally, and their trades are playing a big role in sending stocks higher, Slimmon said
"The buying has only begun. We're in the first inning of capitulation back in the market," Slimmon said in a phone interview.
The prospect of a partial trade deal has also eased one of the most significant downward pressures on the stock market, the portfolio manager said. The volatility that came with every minor trade-deal headline has dulled, and Wall Street isn't as prone to sell in the wake of a negative headline, Slimmon said.
"It's all about the uncertainty. If tariffs have peaked, I think that removes some uncertainty, and that will help with a manufacturing rebound," he noted. "I think the market has finally keyed into what's going on."
The portfolio manager pointed to slumps in 2011 and 2015 as precedent for what he expects to happen in coming years. The S&P 500 index contracted over both years before posting multi-year rallies, and Slimmon expects the slump in 2018 will see a similar pattern before stocks turn bearish.
Though last year saw an "artificial low" from a late-December tumble, Slimmon still thinks 2018 serves as a "pause year" before recession worries are rejected and markets surge.
S&P 500 Yearly Performance (2009-2019)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The examples also point to a change in the kinds of stocks investors will look to buy in a market rally. The run-ups following 2011 and 2015 first saw value stocks soar, as the shares "were pricing in a recession," he said. Slimmon now thinks value companies are "overbought" after the third-quarter upswing, and recommends growth stocks for those looking to get the most value from an end-of-year leg-up.
"As investors come back into the market, I think they're going to look where they can get involve that hasn't done well," he said. "The area that has lagged recently are these high growth areas."
While Slimmon sees the bull run continuing through 2020, the biggest risk to the future gains may be the pace of the gains themselves. The jumps after 2011 and 2015 each lasted two years, with the S&P 500 gaining more in the second year of recovery than the first.
The index is now poised to end 2019 with a 25% jump, and it's "unlikely to see the same magnitude in a second year rally," Slimmon said. He added that, by 2021, the downturn signaled by August's yield curve inversion is scheduled to take effect.
Every US recession since 1950 has been preceded by a yield curve inversion, but it takes an average 22 months for an economic downturn to hit its hardest after such an event, according to Credit Suisse. That would place the trough of a market slump in July 2021.
There's no guarantee of economic recession in 2021, but Slimmon noted that a convergence of risk factors and the yield curve's historic relevance paint an ominous picture for investors. The 2020 presidential election could throw markets a curveball if a regulation-friendly candidate wins the White House. Stocks could also react negatively if a trade deal with China doesn't meet expectations. Even a streak of positive economic growth in 2020 could create a high bar for comparable figures the following year. Investors could be in for a rough year if enough of these variables hit markets at once, Slimmon said.
Now read more markets coverage from Markets Insider and Business Insider:
It's home to some great vacation spots, and you'll even find towns in the region that look like they're straight out of Europe. You'll also find plenty of delicious food, and come across some words and phrases you won't hear elsewhere.
Keep scrolling to see some of the quirks only true Midwesterners can love and appreciate.
1. It's pop, not soda.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Coke, Sprite, Dr. Pepper — those are all brands of pop, not soda. According to the New York Times, there are places in the Midwest where 75% of people say pop instead of soda.
Many people say that the name pop comes from the noise a fizzy drink makes when you remove its cork.
2. There's more to Midwestern states than cornfields.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The Midwest gets a bad rap. Those who aren't from there often think of the region as nothing more than cornfields.
And while there are lots of those, there are also plenty of exciting attractions. For example, the Midwest is home to Chicago, the third-biggest city in the US. Michigan is full of quaint beach towns, and Indiana boasts beautiful sand dunes. Ohio has Cedar Point, a huge amusement park that's the second oldest in the country, while Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is known for its many breweries.
3. We take our Big Ten teams seriously.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Although not every school that's in the Big Ten is in the Midwest, the majority of the schools are, and chances are if you went to one of them, your allegiance to at least one of the school's sports teams is pretty strong.
That means you still go to games as an alum, you still tailgate, and you always have a good stockpile of spirit-wear in your closet.
4. A steakburger from Steak 'n Shake can change your life.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Even though Steak 'n Shake has locations outside the Midwest, it's a favorite among Midwesterners, mostly for its steakburgers and milkshakes.
The chain is known for its retro diner feel. You'd be making a mistake if you didn't go for a burger, fries, and a milkshake.
5. Lake towns are perfectly acceptable vacation spots.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
You don't need an ocean to enjoy a vacation. A lake will do just fine. Many Midwesterners spend their summers at places like Lake Geneva in Wisconsin, Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri, or Lake McConaughy in Nebraska.
Lake towns are often tight-knight communities that offer something fun for everyone in the family.
6. Lake-effect snow means you're in for a real dumping.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Lake-effect snow refers to snow that's created when cold, dry air passes over a warm lake surface, allowing it to pick up both moisture and heat. This kind of snow is most common in places that are downwind from the Great Lakes, like Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, Illinois, and Indiana.
7. Tennis shoes aren't just for playing tennis.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Midwesterners don't say sneakers, they say tennis shoes. It's a term that often confuses outsiders because it doesn't refer to just shoes used to play tennis, but instead to any kind of sneaker.
8. Your life isn't complete until you've tried Portillo's.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
What started off as a small hot dog stand in a Chicago suburb is now a chain that operates over 40 locations throughout the US. The majority of the locations are in Illinois, but the chain has also spread to Indiana, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, as well as Arizona, California, and Florida.
Midwesterners rave about Portillo's hot dogs, Italian beef, chopped salad, chocolate cake, and milkshakes.
9. If you're going downtown or to the city, you're going to Chicago.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
If you're from the Midwest, "the city" is not New York City, it's Chicago. People from the suburbs going into the city will often say they're going downtown too.
10. Just because you draw out your a's doesn't mean you have an accent.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
When I moved from the Chicago suburbs to start college on the East Coast, people would stare at me with a look of bewilderment and ask "where are you from?" This was the first time I had ever been told I had an accent.
Some people call it a twang, but any Midwesterner will tell you that, despite the fact they draw out their a's, they don't speak with an accent.
11. Tornado warnings are real things that actually happen.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Thanks to the Midwest's general flatness, the region is a prime spot for tornadoes. In fact, Tornado Alley — a region in the US where there's a disproportionately high frequency of tornadoes compared to the rest of the country — is made up of mostly Midwestern states, namely South Dakota, Nebraska, and Kansas.
Depending on the season, tornado warnings are relatively common in these three states as well as other Midwestern states like Illinois and Indiana.
12. Pizza crust comes in all shapes and sizes.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Chicagoans love their thick deep dish crust, while St. Louis locals are particularly proud of their thin crust.
There's also Detroit-style pizza, which features square slices and a crispy, thicker crust that's often browned thanks to the cheese that's baked on top of it.
13. It's not a backyard barbecue or party without a game of cornhole.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Cornhole (or bags as some people call it) is a favorite game among Midwesterners. Whether you're at a Big Ten tailgate or just a backyard barbecue, it's a game that everyone can get in on. It can be a great ice-breaker too.
14. Puppy chow is the ideal snack for every occasion.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
No, puppy chow is not dog food, it's the best snack you'll ever have, and a staple at parties, sleepovers, etc, in the Midwest. It's made by coating Chex cereal in a mix of chocolate, peanut butter, vanilla, butter, and powdered sugar.
Just beware that once you start eating it, you won't be able to stop.
15. The best cheese is from Wisconsin.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Wisconsin has 128 cheese plants, which is more than twice the number of cheese plants in any other state. Ninety percent of the state's milk is made into cheese, and cheesemakers in the state produce over 600 varieties.
It's no wonder then that Wisconsinites are proud of their cheese — in fact, fans of the state's football team (the Green Bay Packers) are referred to as cheeseheads, and even wear foam cheese blocks on their head during games.
16. Saying hello to your neighbor is a worthwhile use of your time.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
It's often said that Midwesterns are friendlier and more polite than people from other parts of the country. Having moved from Illinois to NYC, I can say this is true.
Neighbors take the time to chat with each other, and even in larger cities people are generally courteous with one another.
17. Ranch makes everything taste better.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Midwesterners often joke that ranch should be its own food group, because they put the creamy dressing on pretty much everything. It's good on pizza, sandwiches, salads, raw vegetables; the list goes on.
18. You don't know cold until you've witnessed a true Midwest winter.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Almost nothing compares to a Midwest winter. I often tell my friends that the windy cold of Chicago is a different kind of cold — and the conditions in other Midwestern states like the Dakotas, Nebraska, and Minnesota are just as brutal.
Sometimes, there will be a weather advisory recommending that people stay indoors just because of the extremely cold temperatures.
19. Shorts weather is anything above 50 degrees.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Because Midwesterners are so familiar with brutally cold temperatures, weather that might seem cold to someone from a warmer climate seems toasty to a Midwesterner. That's why you'll see them pulling out shorts and flip flops in 50-degree weather.
20. Culver's serves the best custard.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Wisconsin and Illinois have the most Culver's locations in the country, but the chain can also be found in other Midwestern states. Fans love their butterburgers, though Culver's is best known for their custard: a richer, creamier version of ice cream.
Every day there's a flavor of the day, and you can get the treat in a cone, in a cup, as a sundae, as a concrete mixer (Culver's version of a blizzard), or as a shake or malt.
21. Sledding can be fun even if it's done on a bunny hill.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The Midwest is not known for its mountainous terrain. Some locals will tell you that you can see their whole state by standing on a phone book.
The region does get a fair amount of snow, though, which means that Midwesterners have to work with what they have when it comes to winter activities like sledding. You'd be surprised how much fun you can have even if you're only cruising down a bunny hill.
22. Cinnamon rolls pair perfectly with chili.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
In school cafeterias in Nebraska and Iowa, it's not uncommon to see a cinnamon roll served alongside a bowl of chili. Some people say the combination started because the two foods were paired together in lunch shipments. It has since spread to restaurants in those states as well.
23. State fairs can be a really good time.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Pretty much every food you'll find at a state fair in the Midwest is served fried — corn dogs, cheese curds, funnel cake, Oreos, candy, and butter. What more could you want for a good time?
24. Your hand is a great tool to describe where you're from.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
If you've ever met anyone from Michigan, you probably recall them using their hand to tell you where exactly in the state they're from. The state is shaped like a hand, so locals often point to somewhere on their own hand to show you which part they call home.
25. It's a hotdish, not a casserole.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Midwesterners love a good casserole, but depending on where you're from in the region, you probably won't call the dish that. Minnesotans call casseroles hotdishes, which, when you think of the dish and how it's made, is a pretty logical name for it.
I recently flew Delta from Berlin to New York in Delta One business class after I scored an incredible deal, and managed to stack two different discounts on my flights for the trip.
Although the Boeing 767-400 features one of Delta's oldest business class seats, and is often the subject of complaints from frequent flyers, I found the ride incredibly comfortable, and was blown away by the incredible service.
The seat is definitely showing its age, and part of it was even broken. But it was tasty food and a lie-flat seat on a long flight — what's not to like?
I recently scored an incredible deal and got to fly business class on Delta's Boeing 767-400. While the plane features Delta's full-fledged Delta One business class, it's one of the older products in Delta's fleet — the airline is actually in the process of slowly retrofitting the planes with brand new interiors.
A lot of travel bloggers, influencers, and message board posters have complaned about the Delta One seat on the 767 in recent years. Most of the complaints focused on the fact that it feels narrow — at least, compared to other planes. Other complaints have targeted the seats' age, or the fact that the in-flight entertainment screen is small.
Some, though, have argued against that criticism, and said that the seats are actually great. Especially for travelers — like me — who usually fly in coach, and compare everything to that standard.
Berlin's Tegel Airport is an ... interesting place. Rather than going through security and then getting to the gates, each gate has its own security screening.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The airport first opened in 1948 and was used during the Berlin Airlift for military and supply planes. It began commercial operations in 1960.
It was originally scheduled to be closed in 2012, when development of the new Berlin Brandenburg Airport was expected to be completed. However, ongoing delays to the Brandenburg project have extended Tegel's life.
That means that the business class lounges are pre-security, so you can head right to them after checking in, but need to leave early enough to go through security.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
It took me a little while to find the Air France lounge, which I could access as a Delta One passenger. It was up a few floors and tucked in a corner
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The lounge was relatively small but also not very crowded. It was perfectly comfortable for the 45 minutes I spent there. When I checked in, the attendant told me when I should make sure to get to security at least an hour before my flight time.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
There were a handful of self-serve drinks, including soda, beer, wine, liquor, and water...
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
... And a handful of snacks and warm dishes. It was nothing fancy, but certainly more comfortable than killing time in the terminal.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
With a little more than an hour until departure, I went to the gate. Each gate has its own security screening, and Delta set up a separate line for business class and frequent flyers with elite status. There were a few people in front of me, and the whole process took about 15 minutes.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
If you aren't able to use the priority lane, you definitely want to get to the gate more than an hour in advance — Tegel security is very thorough, which means lines can move slowly.
The gate area post-security was quite crowded, with all the seats taken and people standing pretty much everywhere.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Boarding began just a few minutes later — I was in the first boarding group.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
And here's my seat, 5A.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The business-class cabin has a 1-2-1 layout, which means each seat has direct access to the aisle.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Each of the business-class seats has a small side table, so the rows are staggered. That means that some seats, like mine, have the the table between the seat and the aisle, making it feel more private when you go to sleep ...
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
... And others — like the seat in front of me — are directly against the aisle and have the table on the inside, in this case, against the window. On some planes, those seats can feel a lot less private and make sleeping a bit harder.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The seat controls are at the front of that side table.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
That side table also holds the tray table ...
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
... While the remote control for the in-flight entertainment system sits under teh adjacent armrest.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
There are a few reasons that some Delta flyers complain about these seats.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Each seat has an in-flight entertainment screen. But the screens are pretty old. They're perfectly fine, but are relatively low-definition and can be fairly hard to see when the cabin lights are on or the window shades are open.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The newer in-flight entertainment screens on most of Delta's fleet are a significant improvement.
The other complaint is that the seats are definitely showing their age. This is definitely true — as if to prove it, one of the panels under the screen was falling off.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
It was still attached, and ultimately didn't interfere with my flight at all, but it definitely showed that these seats are due for some TLC — Delta is currently in the process of slowly retrofitting its 767 fleet with new interiors, including new seats.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Each seat had a small adjustable reading lamp — in addition to the overhead personal light — plus a power outlet, headphone jack for the entertainment system, and a USB port to charge phones.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
There was also an old ethernet port, but Delta's mainline planes pretty much all offer Wi-Fi these days.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
In addition to the side table, there were a few storage areas, including a pocket in front of the seat ...
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
... Another pocket on the front of the side table, on my right side ...
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
... And a cubby under the seat in front of me, although this is where a passenger's feet go when the seat is turned into bed mode.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
There was also a small cubby for shoes, a convenient touch.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
There were a few things waiting for me at my seat, including a water bottle, an amenity kit, a menu ...
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
... And a plastic-wrapped bedding set. Delta offers Westin Heavenly-branded bedding in Delta One, which is phenomenally comfortable.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The amenity kit came in a stylish Tumi-branded bag
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
It came with a handful of essentials, like a toothbrush and toothpaste, mouthwash hand sanitizer, a pen, moisturizer, a sleep mask and ear plugs, and socks.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
A few minutes later, the main flight attendant working my side of business class, Christopher, came over to introduce himself and offered me a glass of either sparkling wine, orange juice, or water as the plane boarded.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
To skip ahead a bit, service throughout the flight was incredible. Christopher introduced himself to every passenger in the cabin, which made the flight feel so personal. He was an American who studied abroad in Germany during college and spoke fluent German, so he was a big fan of working the Berlin and Munich flights.
Throughout the flight, the flight attendants and purser were constantly keeping an eye on the cabin in case anyone needed anything. They filled my water glass a few times without me even realizing that they were coming through the aisles, offered to answer any questions, and were all great to chat with, without being overbearing or anything if I wanted to relax or work.
I fly fairly often for work or otherwise, on a variety of airlines in a variety of cabins, but I was genuinely impressed by the whole crew on this flight.
Boarding took about 40 minutes. I drank my wine, sent a few e-mails, and decided to flip through the menu.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Once we took off, the flight would start with a drink service and pre-lunch snack. Then, we'd have starters ...
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
... Followed by the main course and dessert.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
There were also plenty of snacks available mid-flight, and a pre-landing meal.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
There was also an extensive list of drinks ...
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
... And a shorter curated wine list.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
We pushed back from the gate about 10 minutes after boarding finished, and took off another 10 minutes later.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
About 10 minutes after we left the ground, the flight attendants sprang into action, coming around to hand out hot towels ...
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
... And noise-cancelling headphones.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
A few minutes later, they came around with the drink cart. I decided to try the signature cocktail, a spiced cranberry bourbon — Woodford Reserve, ginger ale, cran-apple juice, and lime.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Lunch service began about 30 minutes later. The appetizers came out first. There was a shrimp dish, which I ended up not eating — I'm not usually the biggest fan of shrimp —plus a Caesar salad and tomato basil soup, both of which were fantastic.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The soup was seriously fantastic, the perfect meal on a rainy fall flight.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The Caesar salad was a bit heavy on the cheese, but that's not actually a bad thing, in my book.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
For lunch, I had decided on the fried salmon with a leek cake, cherry tomatoes, and broccolini. I'm usually pretty anti-fish on planes, but I wanted to see how it was.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The plating was a bit weird, and water from the broccolini made it soggy, but everything was really tasty. The fish, especially — I was impressed that they could pull off a good salmon fillet on a plane.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
As I was eating my main course, the cabin crew came around to offer fresh drinks. I went for a Woodford on the rocks this time.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Finally, dessert was served. I had the sundae with the works. Despite the salmon for my main, this was not destined to be a healthy flight for me.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Delta One Business Class 767 400 IMG_4613
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
After lunch, I decided to go into bed mode and take a nap, plus watch a couple of movies. The bed was a bit narrow but comfortable and I was able to sleep. The foot cubby was a bit narrow, but still spacious enough for me to be able to roll over.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Because the Boeing 767 is narrower than most other wide-body planes — like the Boeing 777 or 787, or the Airbus A330 — business class seats tend to be a bit narrower than on the bigger jets.
Even though the seat was certainly aging, and the panel under the screen was loose, it was perfectly comfortable, on par with the best seats — and obviously miles beyond the coach seats I usually fly.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
I watched a few movies — including Godzilla, King of the Monsters (more fun than I expected) while processing photos from my trip and catching up on some reading.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
After all, gotta get those photos ready for the 'gram.
A few hours in, the flight attendants came around with warm chocolate chip cookies, a staple of Delta One flights between the US and Europe.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The pre-landing meal service (I guess technically dinner?) began about 90 minutes before we got to JFK. It started with a hot towel ...
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
... Followed by drinks. I had a cup of coffee.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
We had a choice between a burger or a crab cake salad. I decided to go with the burger, only because I wanted to see how it was.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
As it turns out, it was actually pretty good. The bun was oddly large, but otherwise it was perfectly tasty.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
It came with a decent potato salad.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
After lunch (or dinner — my internal clock was pretty confused at this point), the flight crew came around with a basket of chocolates.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
About eight hours after taking off, we landed at JFK ....
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Ultimately, even if the seats are showing their age, and even though they're a bit narrow compared to on bigger planes, I found the flight perfectly comfortable and don't understand the complaints. Here's why.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
It was a business class seat with direct aisle access, a relative degree of privacy, and plenty of space. No, it's not the newest seat in the sky, but — aside from the cosmetic damage and the sub-par screen — it stood on its own merits.
Service was phenomenal, the food and drinks were good, and I was able to lie down flat while sleeping and watching movies. That's pretty much all you can ask for from a business class flight.
It's certainly relatively narrow compared to the business class seats you'd find on a bigger plane, and someone larger might have trouble getting comfortable in lie-flat mode. But compared to coach, it's a world of difference.
Delta is in the process of replacing the seats on the 767-400. The new cabin looks like it will be beautiful, but until it's ready, I think the current business class seats are still a treat.
Google's ambitious new Stadia video game platform is getting a lot of attention this week, following its troubled launch.
There's a lot to like about the idea behind Stadia: It allows you to play major video games like "Destiny 2" and "Mortal Kombat 11" across any phone, TV, or tablet.
But if you own one of the 100 million-plus PlayStation 4 consoles out there, you may or may not already know about Remote Play — a feature that lets you stream any PlayStation 4 game to PC, Mac, iPhone, iPad, Android, or even the PlayStation Vita handheld console.
Remote Play isn't quite as elegant or future-looking as Google Stadia. But it's also a completely free feature built into every single PlayStation 4.
Microsoft is working on its own Project xCloud service, which will go head-to-head with Stadia, as well as Console Streaming, which will let you stream Xbox One games to a phone or tablet just like Sony's Remote Play. In other words, stay tuned, because the space is heating up.
The latest challenger to Sony's dominance of the market is Google Stadia, an ambitious cloud gaming service that requires no console at all — just an internet connection. While Stadia is missing several key features as of its launch this week, the promise is that you'll be able to play the same game on your TV, your computer, and even your phone.
It sounds great, especially for people like myself who don't get a ton of time in front of the TV, but still want to play the latest and greatest big-ticket video games. At launch, the Stadia lineup includes recent hits like "Mortal Kombat 11" and "Red Dead Redemption 2," with the promise of more to come.
On paper, that sounds great. But before you commit, I urge you to consider that every single one of those PlayStation 4 consoles on the market has Remote Play, a feature built right in that might actually deliver on most of what you want out of a service like Stadia — especially given that Stadia isn't quite ready for prime-time.
There are definitely reasons to believe in the vision that Google (and Microsoft, which is previewing its own similar service, xCloud) is pitching, where all games — including multiplayer twitch-fests like Stadia launch title "Destiny 2"— will be playable from anywhere, in glorious 4K resolution.
If all you really want is to get a little bit further in "Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order" while you visit your family for the holidays, though, I urge you to take a look at Remote Play, which works with the PlayStation 4 you very possibly might already have. And if you don't have one, it'll cost $199 on Black Friday, bundled with three top-tier games.
And, just to reiterate, Remote Play is totally free.
Meet Remote Play
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Remote Play lets you stream gameplay from your PS4 console to a PC, Mac, iPhone, Android device, or even Sony's portable PlayStation Vita console, for the relative few who have one. I've been using it to split my free time between "God of War" and "Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order," and it's worked great.
Remote Play is decidedly not new — the PlayStation 3 had an early version of the feature, and the PS4 got it in 2014 before adding PC and Mac support in 2016 — but 2019 is the year it had a huge breakthrough and became way more useful.
It turned out to be really good timing: The newest version of Apple's iPhone and iPad operating systems includes support for PlayStation 4 controllers to connect via Bluetooth. Before that update, you could use touch controls to simulate a PlayStation 4 controller on the screen, but, uh, I wouldn't recommend playing "Destiny 2" that way.
Activating the Remote Play app literally turns on your PlayStation 4 and streams the video to your phone, rather than the TV. With decent WiFi at home and wherever you play, and a $10 clip to attach a controller to your phone — readily purchasable on Amazon and elsewhere — you basically have a portable PlayStation 4, wherever you go.
I won't pretend that you'll get the same experience on a tiny iPhone screen as you will on your gigantic 4K TV at home, but I will say that speaking personally, it's been really nice to play a little "Jedi: Fallen Order" or "God of War" on my iPad while we watch Netflix on the TV.
And, oh yeah, did I mention yet that it's free?
A little clunky
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Remote Play is a little clunky in my experience: You're literally controlling your physical console, and it wasn't necessarily designed for this new era of streaming.
If you're on vacation, and you want to play "Spider-Man" when "Horizon Zero Dawn" is what you left in the PS4 disc drive, well, you're out of luck. Another limitation: You need to have WiFi; it won't work over a cellular connection.
And there's one particular oddity: When you connect a PlayStation 4 controller to an iPhone or iPad, the center touchpad doesn't work. The Remote Play app lets you use a virtual touchpad on the screen, which is fine for games like "Jedi" that only use the button to bring up the map, but I wouldn't recommend it for the very few PS4 games that make heavy use of the button
Anyway, this is where Stadia starts to look a little better, or at least a little more elegant, by comparison: Because there is no physical console, you can play whatever games you have in your library always, at all times. There are no discs, and nothing to install — that's the whole point, after all.
You can stop playing on the TV, and pick it right back up where you left off on your phone. The Stadia controller that comes with the $129 launch kit is designed for its games. Google also promises Stadia gameplay in ultra-HD 4K resolution when streaming to devices that support it. And, in a huge boon for road warriors, it works over a cellular connection, provided that connection is 10 mbps or faster.
At launch, it only supports the Chromecast Ultra streaming dongle, Mac, PC, and most of Google's own Pixel smartphones, but it promises to expand further and support the same platforms as Remote Play in the future.
Stadia has drawbacks
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
I'd say that Remote Play with the PlayStation 4 you may already own is a smarter bet than Stadia, at least right at this moment in time.
First and foremost, the PlayStation 4 has way more games, period. There's no word on if "Jedi: Fallen Order" will come to Stadia at all, and Sony will presumably continue to keep console-exclusive franchises like "God of War" and "The Last Of Us" all to itself. Meanwhile, every single Stadia game, with the exception of the platform-exclusive "Gylt," is also available on the PS4.
Second off, while the Stadia supports playing games on a TV by way of a Chromecast Ultra streaming dongle, the PlayStation 4 was literally built for this purpose. While you may have the odd spat of latency playing PS4 games via Remote Play from your phone or PC, the experience of playing on that nice big TV is as pleasant as it ever was.
And, finally, there's the question of Google's commitment to Stadia. The PlayStation 4 hit the market in 2013, and the PlayStation 5 is already confirmed to drop in 2020. Stadia, meanwhile, is Google's first real foray into the video game business, and, well, the company isn't exactly known for its long-term commitment to new products.
Ultimately, I'd feel better dropping $60 for a PlayStation 4 game than I would buying the same game on Stadia for the same price.
Looking to the future
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Both Sony's Remote Play and Google Stadia are hardly the only ones of their kind.
The Nintendo Switch, rather than rely on streaming, is easy to detach from the TV and take with you, which has the unique advantage of working when you're on an airplane or otherwise out of a coverage area.
Steam, the PC video game storefront, offers its own take on the Remote Play concept. Microsoft, too, lets you similarly stream Xbox One gameplay to a Windows 10 PC — with the caveat that both devices have to be on the same local network.
Speaking of Microsoft, its now-in-beta Project xCloud service is one to watch.
Like Stadia, xCloud promises to allow gamers to play Xbox titles on any device, from the console to PCs to phones, thanks to the magic of streaming. Relatedly, Microsoft is slowly rolling out a feature called Console Streaming, which will allow users to play their home Xbox One via their smartphones. It might even have an edge over PS4 Remote Play, given that Microsoft promises that both xCloud and Console Streaming will work over 4G LTE.
This seems to indicate that, depending on pricing and availability and all kinds of other little details, Microsoft has a chance to strike a balance between Sony's approach and Google's: It could be as forward-looking as Stadia in design, but still offer that optimized experience for when you're just sitting on your couch.
Either way, it's a minor miracle that any of this works at all, let alone that the notion of playing big-ticket Xbox and PlayStation-quality games on your phone is slowly becoming mainstream. My only real note of caution here is to wait for the cloud gaming scene to shake out a little bit before you make any big investment in one platform or another.
The ranch sits on 6,713 acres, with a five-bedroom, four-bathroom main house, in addition to three cabins which can fit between four and six guests each.
Kanye West has bought another pricey ranch in Wyoming — under 100 miles away from the $14 million Monster Lake Ranch he already purchased a few months ago.
The ranch sits on 6,713 acres and is located under 100 miles away from the other ranch West bought in September, which had an asking price of $14 million.
In a separate area, there's the Snowshoe Lodge, a three-bedroom and three-bath home, and three additional cabins that can fit between two and four people each. The main lodge even has a wet bar in the basement and an adjoining walk-in sauna that can be used year-round.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The surrounding area is known for its bustling wildlife, with the property listing stating that 3,500 elk are said to travel within region, and that as many as 2,000 of them use the ranch. The nearby creeks are also home to brown and rainbow trout, which can be fished year-round.
There is an additional cookhouse cabin, which can fit two people, and a more rustic "Cow Camp" cabin. Among the more modern property amenities are heated helicopter pads.00
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Business Insider previously reported that Kanye's other ranch, Monster Lake Ranch, has a restaurant and saloon, horse barns, an office building, and a shooting range on site.
The ranch is located in an area known for its scenic and natural beauty.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Situated close to White Creek, the ranch is also near scenic hiking trails, canyons, meadows, and grassy hills.
In an interview with West for Vogue Arabia, his wife Kim Kardashian West revealed that she could see their family living in Wyoming full time one day.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"I see us living on a ranch in Wyoming, occasionally going to Palm Springs and our home in Los Angeles — and becoming a lawyer,"Kardashian West said when her husband asked how she sees herself in 10 years' time.
But what is the "Jesus is King" rapper intending to do with all these Wyoming properties? Business Insider previously reported on West's recent ranch-buying trend.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
A source told PEOPLE that West wants Bighorn to be the permanent venue for his Sunday Services, a pop-up church service.
On the larger ranch real-estate trend, Business Insider's Libertina Brandt cited a Wall Street Journal report which notes that luxury ranches have become less appealing to younger generations, citing the labor and money which must be spent to operate and maintain the massive proprieties.
As a result, there's a surplus of luxury ranches — at least, that is, until West buys them all up.
Parents should proactively practice mentally strong habits to help their children build mental strength. And this doesn't have to be complicated — just spending quality time together, particularly doing things like yoga or talking through feelings, can have a real impact.
Parents should prioritize taking care of themselves — it models the importance of self-care. They also should know the value of play and fun.
They should help kids problem solve and work through tough feelings, but not swoop in and fix things.
It's no coincidence that mentally strong parents raise mentally strong children. And while I spend a lot of time talking about avoiding the unhealthy habits that rob kids of mental strength, it's also important for parents to proactively help kids build their mental muscles.
Mentally strong parents teach, practice, engage, and model mental strength so that their kids can learn the skills they need to become mentally strong adults.
Here are 10 things mentally strong parents do with their children:
Whether they are working on a science experiment or shopping together, mentally strong parents work on strengthening their bonds with their kids. They know that the parent-child relationship will affect a child's future relationships, social interactions, and self-worth.
2. They talk about feelings
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Mentally strong parents don't burden their kids with their own emotional turmoil, but they are willing to use feeling words in their everyday conversations. They normalize feelings of sadness, frustration, fear, and anger, and encourage kids to share how they're feeling.
3. They practice coping skills
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Mentally strong parents don't just tell kids to "calm down" or "stop crying" without giving them healthy coping skills. They teach them strategies that help them manage their feelings in a healthy way. Then, they offer gentle reminders like, "Take a few deep breaths" or, "Take a break for a minute" to guide kids when they need a little assistance.
4. They engage in mental strength exercises
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
They don't just tell their kids to "toughen up." Instead, they work on mental strength exercises together so that the whole family can think, feel, and behave their best. Whether they regularly engage in gratitude exercises or practice yoga together, mental muscle building is a family activity.
5. They establish goals
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Goal setting is a valuable skill, and mentally strong parents know that kids can learn from each goal they set. Mistakes, failure, and success all provide valuable life lessons. So whether they're establishing a personal fitness goal or creating an academic goal each month, they help their kids challenge themselves.
6. They take care of themselves
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Building mental strength isn't about inflicting pain and suffering — it involves self-care. So mentally strong parents make it a priority to take care of their bodies and their minds. They model the importance of a good diet and plenty of sleep, and they invite their kids to exercise and engage in healthy social activities.
7. They process tough events
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Whether they've endured the death of a pet or their child got cut from the team, mentally strong parents process tough events with their kids. They validate their kids' feelings and talk about how to cope with life's inevitable hardships.
8. They review rules
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
They don't expect their kids to automatically understand that there are different expectations for their behavior at the playground compared to the library. So they review the rules — and explain the reasons for those rules — ahead of time. This helps kids understand what's expected from them and gives them a chance to practice their skills.
9. They problem solve
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
While it can be tempting to swoop in and fix problems, mentally strong parents resist that urge. Instead, they problem solve alongside their kids. They invite kids to share how they might solve their own problems — and they brainstorm solutions together.
10. They play and have fun
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Mentally strong parents aren't all work without any fun. They recognize the importance of play — for kids and adults. Whether they're playing ball in the yard or building a castle out of blocks, they unwind and enjoy life's little moments together.
Make mental strength training an ongoing activity
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Kids aren’t born mentally strong — but they can learn and practice exercises that will build mental strength. So make mental strength training an ongoing priority in your family.
Over time, you’ll help your kids develop the mindset they need to reach their greatest potential. And you’ll also sharpen your own skills along the way.
The 2019 Los Angeles auto show is in full swing, with a bevy of new electrified models and concepts headlining the show. But hidden within the new vehicles themselves were a host of gee-whiz features you might have missed. With that in mind, here's a rundown of the ten coolest features on the show floor of the 2019 LA show.
David Undercoffler is the editor-in-chief of Autolist and a freelance contributor for Business Insider.
We'll start with the bad news: this feature won't be on US models since technically side-view camera systems like this (in place of mirrors) aren't allowed under US Department of Transportation rules. Until those outdated rules are changed, we'll miss out on this slick setup.
It uses small cameras mounted in place of side-view mirrors and projects an image onto small OLED screens mounted on the inside of the front doors. Even cooler? Drivers can use their fingers to reposition the display on the screen, and the cameras have three default settings: highway, parking, and tight turning.
How side-view cameras work
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
It uses small cameras mounted in place of side-view mirrors and projects an image onto small OLED screens mounted on the inside of the front doors. Even cooler? Drivers can use their fingers to reposition the display on the screen, and the cameras have three default settings: highway, parking, and tight turning.
2.) VW ID. Space Vizzion AppleSkin seats
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
More than a few buyers of electric vehicles have complained that the eco-cred of the car is hampered by the fact that it uses leather on its seats and various interior trim pieces. Thus, a vegan interior movement is starting to gain traction.
VW's solution on the all-electric Space Vizzion concept wagon (previewing a production model due in the US in 2022)? Something called AppleSkin seats. They use a byproduct of apple juice to create a material that feels like leather but uses no animal skins whatsoever.
3.) Land Rover Defender Adventure Pack
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Land Rover's long-awaited Defender SUV offers an array of option packages aimed at helping owners enjoy the great outdoors via their shiny Land Rover.
The coolest is the Adventure Pack, which comes with things like an integrated air compressor, a side-mounted waterproof exterior bin for extra gear, and a portable rinse system to clean off muddy gear or sandy toes. While Land Rover doesn't mention the cleaning of pets ala Aston's DBX Pet Pack, we bet Fido wouldn't mind a rinse in this system either.
4.) Aston Martin DBX Pet Pack
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Aston Martin is out with its first-ever crossover SUV, the 542-horsepower DBX. In addition to a bevy of your traditional ultra-luxe features, the DBX also offers the Pet Pack.
What the Aston Martin pet pack includes
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
This feature includes a partitioned space in the cargo area for your four-legged friends, plus a bumper protector to avoid scratches, and a portable pet washer to keep Fido clear -- or more importantly -- the leather inside the $200,000 DBX clean.
5.) Hyundai Vision T headlights and grille
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Hyundai used the LA show to unveil the Vision T Plug-in Hybrid concept, a preview of what the next-generation Tucson compact crossover will probably look like. Our favorite part? The integrated grille and headlight design.
When the vehicle is turned off, the dark chrome of the grille and headlights look like a single unit made up of many geometric pieces. Turn the headlights on, however, and the pieces of the grille hiding the headlights suddenly illuminate. It's a trick that could actually make it to production, given a similar trick on the all-new Hyundai Sonata.
6.) Ford Mustang Mach-E phone-as-key
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
This feature has been seen on other models, but it's still cool. The Mach-E will allow owners to use their Bluetooth-connected smartphone to unlock the EV, start it, and drive it, all without using a traditional key or removing their phone from their pocket or purse.
Add in wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, and you have full access to the Mach-E and smartphone connectivity without ever needing to actually touch your phone.
7.) Ford Mach-E frunk as cooler
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Most EV's have a frunk -- a front trunk that allows users to store cargo in the space that is typically taken up by the gas engine at the front of the car. Ford's Mach-E takes this one step further, adding a drainage plug at the bottom of it, and giving it cooler-like functionality. Not in the mood to tailgate? This Ford's frunk can also hold a suitcase.
8.) Headlights on BMW M8 First Edition
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
To celebrate the launch of BMW's new M8 Gran Coupe — a four-door, 617-horsepower sports coupe — the brand is offered a limited-edition version called the First Edition, of which just 400 copies will be made.
In addition to a slick green paint job, brushed gold/bronze exterior accents, and other trim upgrades, this model also comes with trick adaptive LED headlights that will glow in a cool yellow beam, reminiscent of the yellow fog lights popular in the 1980s and 1990s on European cars and generally illegal on US roads.
9.) Paint on Audi's RS6 Avant
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Audi has finally heeded enthusiasts' calls and is bringing the fire-breathing RS6 Avant (that's station wagon in Audi parlance) to the US market for the first time. This model packs a twin-turbo V8 engine that makes 592 horsepower and will do 0-62 mph in 3.6 seconds.
Making the package even sweeter is the color of the model that they had on the floor of this year's LA auto show. Audi calls it Sebring Black, and it will be available on the RS6 Avant when it hits the U.S. market in 2020.
10.) Monoblock Wheels on the Mercedes-Benz GLS AMG 63
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The surprise wasn't that Mercedes-AMG used the 2019 LA auto show to debut the new 2021 GLS AMG 63, a 603-horsepower, twin-turbo V8, three-row behemoth of an SUV.
The surprise was the ultra-cool 23-inch Monoblock rims that will be available on this model. The rims harken back to the monoblock rims that AMG used on earlier models in the 1980s and 1990s, and they add conspicuous presence to the already imposing GLS.
The 2010s was a roller coaster of a decade for film.
We saw Disney dominating at the box office with the rise of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, a renewed "Star Wars" franchise, live-action reboots, and the continued dominance of their animated films. But we also saw the rise of streaming and the decline of movie-ticket sales, sparking fears that cinemas are dying out. But maybe nothing defined film this decade more than the fact that movies by and large have continued to become easier and cheaper to make, resulting in more films being released than ever before.
Despite the fact that so many amazing films were produced, we did manage to narrow down our list. So without any further ado, here are our top 100 movies of the 2010s.
100. "Nocturnal Animals" (Director: Tom Ford, 2016)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Amy Adams and Jake Gyllenhaal display their supreme acting talents in this film, but the movie works because of writer/director Tom Ford's singular vision. He takes the different textures of each period of time and story in which the film takes place, and makes them distinct while seamlessly connecting the tissue of the greater story. "Nocturnal Animals" smartly and oh-so-elegantly explores what it would be like for an author to use his life as fodder for his art. — A.C. Fowler
99. "Free Solo" (Directors: Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, 2018)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Free Solo" provides a window into the world and mind of Alex Honnold, perhaps the best free solo rock climber to ever live. The film follows the lead-up to his attempt to free solo El Capitan (the toughest free solo ever attempted). The documentary touches on how Honnold trains and there is outrageously gorgeous footage of climbing, but the more interesting story is about why someone like Alex has the impulse to free solo and how someone who free solos maintains relationships with friends, family, and partners. — A.C. Fowler
98. "Creed" (Director: Ryan Coogler, 2015)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Director Ryan Coogler succeeded in the tall task of striking the right balance of nostalgia — connecting to the earlier Rocky films without drowning us in the past. The final fight scene in "Creed" is so incredibly engulfing with it's frenetic energy and balletic choreography that it makes you want to stand up, clap, and cheer. — A.C. Fowler
97. "Deadpool" (Director: Tim Miller, 2016)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The success of this movie rests on the fact that the film is genuinely funny. In the opening credits, the writers are called "the real heroes here" and that is 100% true — they ended with an hour-and-forty-five minutes of nearly endless verbal and visual quips. The film is a total foul-mouthed pulpy romp and doesn't apologize for it. — A.C. Fowler
96. "Interstellar" (Director: Christopher Nolan, 2014)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The film's greatest triumph is in its themes. How is love quantified? Who's to say what actions are truly selfless? Visually, it's stunning and Matthew McConaughey gives a stirring performance making the film, which is full of scientific jargon and action, yet still deeply emotional. — A.C. Fowler
"There is a storm coming!" Anyone who has seen "Take Shelter" will forever remember this line, thanks to the perfectly cast lead, Michael Shannon, as the seemingly deranged Curtis who's having visions of the apocalypse. The psychological thriller left you wondering what really happened in the end, but everyone could agree the film was fresh take on the genre and a hit with critics. — Chris Snyder
94. "Guardians of the Galaxy" (Director: James Gunn, 2014)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Who would've known that a sentient tree voiced by Vin Diesel would bring together fans across the world with three little words? Director James Gunn ("Slither") was tasked with adapting one of Marvel's most obscure alien teams, the Guardians of the Galaxy. Not only did he succeed ("GotG" became the third highest-grossing movie of 2014), but Gunn delivered one of Marvel's edgiest films by giving us a group of quirky anti-Avengers to fall in love with along with a killer soundtrack. We are Groot. — Kirsten Acuna
Quentin Tarantino continued his revisionist history streak with "Django Unchained," in which a freed slave named Django (Jamie Foxx) teams up with a bounty hunter (Christoph Waltz) to rescue Django's wife from the brutal plantation owner Calvin Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio). It's equal parts over-the-top violent, hilarious, and shocking and proved that, 20 years into his career, Tarantino had not lost his edge. — Ian Phillips
92. "Phoenix" (Director: Christian Petzold, 2014)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Phoenix" tells the story of a woman who returns to her estranged husband after being released from a Nazi concentration camp. Petzold gives a master class in meticulous plotting and faultless pacing. — Carter Thallon
91. "The Revenant" (Director: Alejandro González Iñárritu, 2016)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Leonardo DiCaprio's ferocious performance grounds director Alejandro G. Iñárritu's savage, yet stunning film, "The Revenant," about a frontiersmen who survives the wilderness to take his revenge on a man who killed his young son and left him for dead. The film won DiCaprio, who wrestled a grizzly bear and the forces of nature in the role, his first Academy Award. — Ashley Rodriquez
90. "Booksmart" (Director: Olivia Wilde, 2019)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Booksmart" carefully and masterfully encapsulates all of the energy of a typical coming of age story, but infuses it with enough newness for it to feel special all on its own. More than any film I've seen in the last several years, "Booksmart" is nonstop laughter, with the two fantastic leads elevating the work of the writers. — A.C. Fowler
89. "Scott Pilgrim vs. the World" (Director: Edgar Wright, 2010)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
When Edgar Wright left "Ant-Man," disappointed fans were left without a superhero movie from one of the most original directors alive. However, we still have "Scott Pilgrim vs. the World," based on the graphic novel series by Bryan Lee O'Malley. The movie is funny and inventive, making the audience feel like they're inside a video game and a comic book all at once. Come for Michael Cera's excellent against-type performance and stay for Chris Evans' scene-stealing performance as a skateboarder-turned-action star. — Ian Phillips
88. "John Wick" (Director: Chad Stahelski, 2014)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
How did an action movie with a $20 million budget about a hit man avenging a dead puppy become Hollywood's best original movie franchise in ages? It helps that director Chad Stahelski is a former stuntman, and thus delivered some of the best staged action sequences imaginable. And on top of all of that, it revived the career of Keanu Reeves and turned him into arguably a bigger action star than he's ever been. We've already gotten two great sequels expanding this cinematic universe far beyond the hitman hotel. Here's to many more sequels down the road. — Ian Phillips
87. "Gravity" (Director: Alfonso Cuarón, 2013)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
In the overcrowded field of space movies, Alfonso Cuarón's "Gravity" manages to separate itself from the pack within its first 13 minutes. That's the length of the opening shot — one single, uninterrupted take, made possible by the masterful cinematography of Cuarón's longtime collaborator Emmanuel Lubezki. His fluid, free-floating camerawork results in perhaps the most successful attempt at reproducing the overwhelming infinity of outer space. Stranded in the midst of all this nothingness, Sandra Bullock's character provides the emotional core of the film, as she grapples with past trauma while confronting the vast expanse of the universe. — Meredith Geaghan-Breiner
"Zero Dark Thirty" (Director: Kathryn Bigelow, 2012)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Kathryn Bigelow takes us behind the scenes to explore the decade-long search for Osama bin Laden. The raid on bin Laden's compound at the end of the movie is a powerful piece of filmmaking. — Jason Guerrasio
85. "The Conjuring" (Director: James Wan, 2013)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
While many horror movies have sequels — that don't often live up to the first — it's rare that they go on to launch an entire franchise. "The Conjuring," however did just that, with a very creepy film (based on real events) that really gets under your skin, and a number of spin-offs focusing on a terrifying doll named Annabelle and a ghoulish nun. — Chris Snyder
84. "Your Name" (Director: Makoto Shinkai, 2016)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
There are many reasons why "Your Name" has become the highest grossing anime in the world. But its most brilliant quality is the story that's difficult to guess as much as it is emotionally resonant. And the beautiful animation work definitely helps. — Nathaniel Lee
83. "What We Do in the Shadows" (Directors: Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, 2014)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"What We Do in the Shadows" is a raucous mockumentary that follows a group of vampires through all their ups and downs: sun allergies, navigating New Zealand nightlife, dealing with love lost, having a showdown with werewolves, and of course, as one character gently puts it, "The unfortunate [...] need to drink human blood." Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement are at the height of their comedic powers, expertly flourishing their storytelling abilities and dry Kiwi wit. — A.C. Fowler
82. "Snowpiercer" (Director: Bong Joon-ho, 2013)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
From writer-director Bong Joon-ho, "Snowpiercer" takes place in a dystopian future aboard the eponymous train that travels around the globe with the Earth's last remaining inhabitants, some of whom look for revolution from the class-divided cars. Bong's English-language debut thrills as it's equal parts science-fiction, action, and social commentary. Bong and Kelly Masterson's script engulfs you with every progression through the train cars. It's a ride you have to take. — Meryl Gottlieb
James Franco gives one of the best performances of the decade as aspiring rap artist/drug dealer, Alien. Harmony Korine gives the audience 90 minutes of unadulterated debauchery and ecstasy as we dive deep into the world of the Spring Break lifestyle. — Carter Thallon
80. "Room" (Director: Lenny Abrahamson, 2015)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Room" is hard to shake. It's a gut-wrenching story of a woman who was taken captive by a predator and now lives in a cramped, single room with her 5-year-old son who was born in captivity. Director Lenny Abrahamson masterfully knows how to make the tiny setting feel more open and, alternatively, how to close in on the suffocation of the situation. But it's stars Brie Larson and Jacob Tremblay that shine above all else. Their relationship is the reason the film lingers in your mind and soul — and probably never leaves. It's beyond deserving that the role of Ma not only won Larson an Academy Award but also permanently landed her on the A-list. — Meryl Gottlieb
79. "Skyfall" (Director: Sam Mendes, 2012)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
From the instantly iconic (and Oscar-winning) theme song by Adele to the breathtaking action sequences shot by cinematographer Roger Deakins to the terrifying villain turn by Javier Bardem, "Skyfall" is an all-time great Bond entry. Like "Casino Royale" before it, it fulfills the promise of Craig's Bond movies by reflecting on 007's fraught place in the modern world. Even if some of Craig's other Bond entries ("Quantum of Solace,""Spectre") were letdowns, we'll always have "Skyfall."— Ian Phillips
78. "Toy Story 3" (Director: Lee Unkrich, 2010)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Toy Story 3" came out 15 years after the original, when it's time for Andy to go to college. For kids who grew up with "Toy Story" this meant that they were reaching this milestone in life alongside Andy. The themes of change and saying goodbye resonated with viewers in a powerful way. — Clancy Morgan
77 . "The Farewell" (Director: Lulu Wang, 2019)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Writer/director Lulu Wang's touching semi-autobiographical film "The Farewell," follows the story of Chinese-American Billi (Awkwafina) as she travels to China to say goodbye to her grandmother whose terminal cancer diagnosis is being hidden from her. The film's marvelous screenplay about family, cultural differences, and goodbyes, provides the foundation upon which the outstanding cast shines brightly. — Carter Thallon
76. "Train to Busan" (Director: Yeon Sang-ho, 2016)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Snowpiercer" meets "World War Z" in "Train to Busan." The South Korean film follows a father and daughter on a harrowing train journey during a fast-moving zombie outbreak. With much of the action taking place on a train, you'll be on the edge of your seat, especially during the climactic and emotional final act. By the film's end, you'll be a big fan of Ma Dong-Seok who will appear in Marvel's "The Eternals."— Kirsten Acuna
75. "Coco" (Director: Lee Unkrich and Adrian Molina, 2017)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
At this stage in human history, we ought to know that animated films can reach the same emotional heights as any other work of art, but for some reason it is sometimes still shocking to me that something created primarily for the entertainment of children can reduce this grown man to a blubbering fool. The way in which Disney/Pixar represents Mexican culture, the creative artistry they bring to Dia De Los Muertos, and the genuine emotion elicited by "Coco's" beautiful story is nothing short of astounding. — A.C. Fowler
74. "Sing Street" (Director: John Carney, 2016)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Sing Street" is a film that reached out its hand, plowed into my chest, grabbed my heart, and squeezed it. My every emotion was wholly at the mercy of the movie. The songs, in the context of the visuals and this story, can absolutely wreck you, if you let them. — A.C. Fowler
73. "Avengers: Endgame" (Directors: Anthony Russo and Joe Russo, 2019)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Marvel Studios is very aware that they're in the business of delighting fans, and boy, do they do this more than ever in "Avengers: Endgame." For those who grew up reading comic books and/or grew up with this cinematic universe, seeing these films unfold and get better through the years holds a special meaning. It may seem like an over the top reaction, but I think "Endgame" has the power to access a feeling within us that we so rarely experience and is therefore so hard to explain. To accurately describe how grandiose this film is is impossible. The most that I can say is that it awakens something inside for those of us tied to the series, something that speaks to the longing of our hearts to be part of something truly magnificent, to fight for life against death, to have a purpose. And if that doesn't get you excited about the power of filmmaking, nothing will. — A.C. Fowler
72. "The Babadook" (Director: Jennifer Kent, 2014)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
An already-strained relationship between a mother and her son worsens when their household becomes possessed by a monster from a bedtime story. Essie Davis is perfect as Amelia, a troubled widow struggling with depression. Full of jump scares, dread and freudian dysfunction, "The Babadook" resonated with the fears of parents around the world and put Australian director Jennifer Kent on the map. — Ju Shardlow
71. "Selma" (Director: Ava DuVernay, 2014)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Selma" is a story so wonderfully suited for film, and what better hands could it have been placed in than Ava DuVernay's. Carmen Ejogo plays King's wife conveying an evident strength that is patiently held beneath the surface and David Oyelowo shows us another side of King by embodying the human with all his flaws and uncertainty. Selma is a deeply moving and richly emotional film experience. — A.C. Fowler
70. "Amour" (Director: Michael Haneke, 2012)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The premise of "Amour" is simple: an octogenarian couple Georges (Jean-Louis Trintignant) and Anne Laurent (career-best Emmanuelle Riva) live out the final months of their relationship. But Michael Haneke's 2-hour-7-minute film unfurls a dark, morally complex story about the ending of life. Similar to its title, "love" is tragic, brutal and necessary. — Ju Shardlow
As writer, director, and editor, Hirokau Koreeda aims to redefine the meaning of family in his film "Shoplifters." After a multigenerational motley crew living in a run down shack meant for one adds one more to their ranks, a little girl from an abusive home, everyone has to adjust. The film asks its characters (and the audience) questions about love, morality, stealing, and the meaning of family. — A.C. Fowler
68. "Sorry to Bother You" (Director: Boots Riley, 2018)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Rapper-activist Boots Riley made his directing debut with the absurdist satire "Sorry to Bother You," set in a heightened-reality version of Oakland, California. Lakeith Stanfield stars as Cassius, a broke telemarketer navigating corporate America in all of its wild contradictions. What starts off as a dark comedy takes a sharp turn into sci-fi and body horror, in a bold and ultimately gratifying indictment of late-stage capitalism. — Meredith Geaghan-Breiner
67. "Logan" (Director: James Mangold, 2017)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Logan" gave us what we had been craving for years — Wolverine going to town on some bad guys in an R-rated film. But beyond the violence is something emotional that elevates and gives this film its true power. In the past films featuring Hugh Jackman's Wolverine, we get a general sense, an allusion to this character's pain, but in "Logan" we experience it far more viscerally. The potency of his aching body and heart fills the theater. Logan's devastating brokenness is what makes the two relationships at the core of the film so moving. It's really quite an achievement that an action film at its core can be about the necessity of family, particularly for those who are different. — A.C. Fowler
"Spotlight," which tells the story of the Boston Globe reporting that exposed a longtime cover-up of sexual abuse by local Catholic priests, is the kind of movie that gives us faith in justice and the importance of speaking truth to power. — Jethro Nededog
65. "The Favourite" (Director: Yorgos Lanthimos, 2018)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"The Favourite" takes a society governed by a long list of social rules and exposes the seedy, secret things beneath the surface. Both Lady Sarah (Rachel Weisz) and Abigail (Emma Stone) also see their world for what it is and use that knowledge to their advantage, all while Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) suffers as the powerful pawn stuck between two brilliant manipulators. And as funny as "The Favourite" is, there's an aching sadness that comes through in Colman's performance that helps ground the film in something deeper. — A.C. Fowler
64. "A Quiet Place" (Director: John Krasinski, 2018)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The strength of "A Quiet Place" is its simplicity. Director/actor Jon Krasinski certainly has us on edge of our seats the entire time, but where the film succeeds most is allowing us to experience, quite viscerally, just how much these parents love their children. It's thrilling, haunting, and beautiful. — A.C. Fowler
63. "Bridesmaids" (Director: Paul Feig, 2011)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Director Paul Feig is at his comedic best in "Bridesmaids," in which a maid of honor and a bridesmaid attempt to upstage one another to prove who is better friends with the bride-to-be. The script, by Kristin Wiig and Annie Mumolo, captures the complexities of female relationships and the challenges of balancing friendships old and new. It is complemented by a brilliant cast, including Wiig, Maya Rudolph, and Melissa McCarthy. — Ashley Rodriquez
Jake Gyllenhaal, Hugh Jackman, and a stellar ensemble cast all deliver standout performances in this movie following a detective and father trying to get to the bottom of two young girls' disappearances. "Prisoners" is a tightly wound story and a masterclass in tension, building up to one of the most stunning and horrific endings we've ever seen in a thriller movie. — Kim Renfro
61. "The Great Beauty" (Director: Paolo Sorrentino, 2013)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Journalist Jep Gambardella has long-indulged in glitzy parties and empty relationships. But his patience with frivolity wears thin on the eve of his 65th birthday. Any viewer who has already fallen in love with Rome will fall again, as Gambardella ambles through its magnificent, ageless streets in search of meaning. A surreal, whirling romp, "La Grande Bellezza" is perhaps director Paolo Sorrentino's greatest work. — Ju Shardlow
60. "A Separation" (Director: Asghar Farhadi, 2011)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"A Separation"— about a couple who splits up because they're torn over seeking a better socio-economic life for their child and a parent with Alzheimer disease, as well as a bunch of other stuff — is simply the best movie I've ever seen about how life just f---ing sucks sometimes. I think we can all relate. — Jacob Shamsian
59. "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" (Director: Rian Johnson, 2017)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Although not a perfect film, Johnson took the necessary steps in his narrative and direction to help the franchise evolve — no longer is this new iteration just a cheery homage to the original three films. The moments and sequences where Johnson and team cranked into high gear were nothing short of astounding. — A.C. Fowler
"First Man" explores the thrilling adventure of going to the moon through the lens of the reticent Neil Armstrong. While Ryan Gosling and Claire Foy deliver knockout performances, Justin Hurwitz's score might be the real star of the film. — Carter Thallon
57. "If Beale Street Could Talk" (Director: Barry Jenkins, 2018)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
There's probably no one who could translate the poetic nature of Baldwin's novel — about a young black couple so miraculously in love only to be separated by a sheet of glass because of the racism that has terrorized the United States since before it was established — better than writer/director Barry Jenkins. His style feels transcendent, infused with notes of jazz that define the version of the New York City through which the characters walk. It's as if Jenkins and Baldwin, despite the separation of time and death, are walking in tandem steps telling one story. — A.C. Fowler
56. "The Big Short" (Director: Adam McKay, 2015)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"The Big Short" literally explains to the audience how the 2008 financial crisis developed and looks at several of the financial experts who predicted that it was coming. Cutaways featuring celebrities explaining financial concepts is just one of several tactics that director Adam McKay uses to make this film punchy and entrancing. — Carter Thallon
55. "Tangerine" (Director: Sean Baker, 2015)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Tangerine" follows a trans sex worker over the course of a day as she tries to find her boyfriend and his mistress. Come for the performances by Kitana Kiki Rodriguez and Mya Taylor, but stay for Sean Baker's editing and direction. — Carter Thallon
54. "Minding the Gap" (Director: Bing Liu, 2018)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Minding the Gap" is a singular documentary that doesn't feel like it's trying to say any one thing. There's no thesis statement. You don't learn a very valuable lesson 10 minutes from the end. It challenges you to form your own interpretation of what you're watching, and ends up lingering in your thoughts as a result. — Tony Manfred
Writer-director Shane Carruth and Amy Seimetz give amazing performances as two wounded souls who find one another. But this is far from a traditional love story, as Carruth delves into ideas about immortality and the purpose of life that will make you think about the movie long after you've watched it. — Jason Guerrasio
52. "Short Term 12" (Director: Destin Daniel Cretton, 2013)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
There have been movies similar to "Short Term 12," but none quite like it. In a sea of color-by-number dramas, it stands out as one of the most magical and empathetic films of the decade that still genuinely moves you. — Nathaniel Lee
51. "Carol" (Director: Tod Haynes, 2015)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Rooney Mara and Cate Blanchette lead this bittersweet drama that explores the overwhelming emotions of falling in love and what it means to be known against the societal consequences of queer relationships in the 1950s. This film was shot on Super 16 film to give it a dreamy, soft quality and is a triumph for career collaborators director Tod Haynes and producer Christine Vachon. — Ally Giannini
50. "A Star Is Born" (Director: Bradley Cooper, 2018)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"A Star Is Born" is full of rousing musical performances and a whirlwind romance we can all believe in. In his directorial debut, Bradley Cooper proves that he has a very clear vision and the ability to execute it (along with being the immensely talented actor we already knew about). Then there's Lady Gaga who shows us that she too can do it all — revealing something about Ally with every note she sings. — A.C. Fowler
49. "The Shape of Water" (Director: Guillermo del Toro, 2017)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The story — a woman falling in love with a fish-man — is both weird and wonderful and the whole film is coated in a Del Toro-esque blackness, with ocean-like greens and blues. The visuals give this paradoxical film a sense of cohesion, but the togetherness of the film goes far beyond the colors and light. It's because this bold premise is masterfully merged with this style of filmmaking. — A.C. Fowler
48. "Burning" (Director: Lee Chang-dong, 2018)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
It's been a great decade for Korean cinema but "Burning" is definitely one of the standouts. "Burning" is a compelling look at social class and masculinity that reads like a mystery but looks like visual poetry. — Nathaniel Lee
47. "Brooklyn" (Director: John Crowley, 2015)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Brooklyn" tells the story of Eilis (Saoirse Ronan), a homesick Irish girl who sailed to the United States and falls in love with an Italian plumber. Director John Crowley masterfully conveys the visceral love that is laid out in Nick Hornby's screenplay. — A.C. Fowler
46. "Gone Girl" (Director: David Fincher, 2014)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
This film urges the audience to try and solve the mystery of Amy's (Rosamund Pike) disappearance as David Fincher raises the drama through his expert directing. Then your blood begins to boil and you feel the tension of the film in your whole body. There are moments when it's nearly impossible to restrict audible gasps. — A.C. Fowler
45. "12 Years a Slave" (Director: Steve McQueen, 2013)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"12 Years a Slave" is a masterclass in filmmaking. The direction, pacing, sound design, and cinematography convey the emotion of the story in a way that few films can. The iconic low angle shot of Solomon staring gives so much without saying a single word. — Clancy Morgan
44. "Once Upon a Time...in Hollywood" (Director: Quentin Tarantino, 2019)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
In "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood," Tarantino spends the majority of his time getting us to care about the characters in a deeper way. This approach feels different from most of his other films (with the exception of "Jackie Brown") and seems to be a much more personal film. That being said, the film still contains all of our Tarantino favorites — sharp dialogue, pulp, situational comedy, long scenes, and those slow-burning character revelations. — A.C. Fowler
43. "Inside Out" (Directors: Pete Docter and Ronnie del Carmen, 2015)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Disney and Pixar's animated feature is a brilliant personification of core emotions Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust. The Academy Award, BAFTA, and Golden Globe-winning film follows protagonist Riley as she adjusts to her family's move from Minnesota to San Francisco. Its lessons about the importance of feeling and emotional health are poignant for viewers of all ages. — Ally Giannini
42. "Before Midnight" (Director: Richard Linklater, 2013)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Richard Linklater created his third romantic masterpiece with "Before Midnight," following up on the two previous entries in the series, "Before Sunrise" and "Before Sunset," starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy. By filming and setting each entry nine years apart, Linklater deepened his characters in a way that digital graphics and regular editing could not. He shows how the passage of time complicates relationships, but also allows them to deepen and grow. With "Before Midnight," we see the soil-firmed roots and blossoming flowers of it all. — Jacob Shamsian
41. "The Handmaiden" (Director: Park Chan-wook, 2016)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Set in Japanese-occupied Korea in the 1930s, Park Chan-wook's "The Handmaiden" chronicles an elaborate plot between a swindler and a pickpocket to seduce and con a Japanese woman of her inheritance from under the nose of her authoritarian uncle. The film's twisting plot, elaborate characters (in multiple senses of the word), and masterful directing results in one of the best love triangle/heist/dramas ever made. — Carter Thallon
40. "Good Time" (Directors: Benny Safdie and Josh Safdie, 2017)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Good Time" is the decade's best 'one crazy night' movie, the decade's best New York movie, and the decade's best movie in which Robert Pattinson acts like he was shot out of a cannon at a thousand miles an hour. — Tony Manfred
Alejandro Gonzàlez Iñárritu creates a fluid concept of reality in the way that the camera floats in and out of scenes in "Birdman." Relevance compounded with ego is dangerous and Iñárritu has us waiting anxiously to see what lays at the end. — A.C. Fowler
38. "O.J.: Made in America" (Director: Ezra Edelman, 2016)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"O.J.: Made in America" deftly follows the rise and fall of O.J. Simpson while also delving into the bubbling, decades-long issues between African-Americans and the Los Angeles Police Department, which flared during Simpson's murder case. — Jethro Nededog
November 2019 is the year the original "Blade Runner" takes place, which was celebrated across the internet by fans this month. Hopefully in 30 years, people will be celebrating "Blade Runner 2049" in a similar fashion. Director Denis Villeneuve delivers a sci-fi masterpiece that improves upon its predecessor, and wrestles with just what it means to be human in thought-provoking ways. — Travis Clark
Director Wes Anderson captures the innocence and beauty of young adulthood in "Moonrise Kingdom," about two preteen lovers who run away from their idyllic New England homes to be together. The film's charming script — written by Anderson and Roman Coppola — elegant score, and colorful, 1960s-inspired aesthetic are accented by the whimsical performances of its ensemble cast, led by Bruce Willis and Edward Norton, whose characters form a search party for the missing children. — Ashley Rodriguez
#35. "The Wolf of Wall Street" (Director: Martin Scorsese, 2014)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Martin Scorsese's endlessly rewatchable epic of excess invites the audience to observe and even enjoy the bacchanal of bad behavior the movie simultaneously celebrates and vilifies. Eventually, the hubris of Leonardo DiCaprio's financial huckster Jordan Belfort catches up to him, his life is ruined, and the audience feels the guilt that accompanies the hangover as though we were also part of the party. — Graham Flanagan
34. "Black Panther" (Director: Ryan Coogler, 2018)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Black Panther" is a film worth praising for its celebration of black people and strong black women, all the while also being a fantastic movie. "Black Panther," despite holding on to the Marvel formula in some way, manages to be the freshest film the Disney/Marvel machine has churned out. It's a smart, sleek superhero story that's grounded in traditions and folklore that feel centuries old. Director Ryan Coogler and his team managed to build a world on par with the greatest science fiction and fantasy series. It's this level of complexity that we should expect if we want to begin demanding more of popcorn entertainment. — A.C. Fowler
33. "The Act of Killing" (Director: Joshua Oppenheimer, 2012)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
This gripping documentary tracks down former Indonesian death squad leaders and has them reenact their mass-killings. The result is one of the most incredible pieces of non-fiction you will ever see. — Jason Guerrasio
32. "La La Land" (Director: Damien Chazelle, 2016)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"La La Land" is a film divided. It's partly a sobering look at a romantic relationship, grounded in real emotions and hardship. It's partly a dreamlike and colorful musical — a true musical where characters sing for no apparent reason. Beyond an examination of love and love lost, it's a joyride of emotion brought to you by writer/director Damien Chazelle, an artist with a clear vision for the story he's created. — A.C. Fowler
31. "Phantom Thread" (Director: Paul Thomas Anderson, 2018)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Phantom Thread" has everything you'd expect from a work of cinematic art: great characters, excellent performances, gorgeous cinematography, a perfectly matched score, and a genius director (Paul Thomas Anderson) at the helm. But what really makes this film incredible is the story. About halfway through, "Phantom Thread" takes a turn from a decadent story about troubled love toward something a bit weirder. It's an unexpected pivot, but that's why it's so perfect. "Phantom Thread" is about people who seem incapable of loving, and just to what extremes they're willing to go to experience it, even if that means love as we know it becomes unrecognizable in their context. — A.C. Fowler
When mysterious spaceships arrive in 12 locations around the world, linguist Louise Banks (Amy Adams) heads the investigation for the United States as she and her team attempt to find a way to communicate with the extraterrestrials. From the opening moments, "Arrival" challenges the mind to a race to put all the pieces together. Director Denis Villeneuve sets the pace perfectly, mirroring the anxiety the characters must feel. It all amounts to an exceptionally smart sci-fi movie as well as a beautiful experience that is utterly exhilarating. — A.C. Fowler
In "Hereditary," there's a sense of terror that's beyond traditional horror thrills and scares. Throughout this film, we feel the growth of something dark and terrible approaching, and when we finally find out what it is, it has the ability to leave us with jaws agape. Writer/director Ari Aster has made something sordidly devastating, and Toni Collette leads the way in convincing us in the moment that this something is real. — A.C. Fowler
28. "Parasite" (Director: Bong Joon-ho, 2019)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Parasite" follows the poor Kim family living in a rundown basement flat doing whatever menial work they can get to survive. Not only is it a comparison of two families from distinct worlds, but about how each of them survives in the world they have to inhabit together. It's a story about society, survival, and symbiosis. — A.C. Fowler
27. "Whiplash" (Director: Damien Chazelle, 2014)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Whiplash" tells the story of a determined young drummer (Miles Teller) and his ruthless teacher (J.K. Simmons). Damien Chazelle's deft direction and J.K. Simmons' explosive performance makes for a thrilling ride you can't take your eyes away from (even though the film dares you to do so). — Carter Thallon
26. "Paddington 2" (Director: Paul King, 2017)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
While the first "Paddington" movie (the story of an orphaned bear trying to find a home) was lovely, its sequel transcended the family-friendly genre. The film is often visually compared to Wes Anderson's whimsical, pastel-laden style, and it's the cinematic equivalent of sinking onto a comfortable couch after a stressful day. "Paddington 2" was the start of a movement in both film and TV towards more wholesome, soothing narratives, and we couldn't be more grateful for this kind bear and his story. — Kim Renfro
25. "Ex Machina" (Alex Garland, 2014)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Writer/director Alex Garland's "Ex Machina" is an artificial intelligence/philosophy 101 lecture presented as a gripping sci-fi thriller (and I mean that in the best way possible). The script expertly reveals just the right amount of new information to constantly make the audience second guess everything they know about the characters, all the while exploring the question of what it means to be human. — Carter Thallon
24. "Inception" (Director: Christopher Nolan, 2010)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
After delivering two "Batman" films that crushed at the box office, Christoper Nolan convinced Warner Brothers to back his big-budget original idea that likely had executives scratching their heads in the pitch phase. The gamble paid off, resulting in a mind-bending action-epic that lured viewers back for repeated viewings in the hopes they would crack the movie's complex code of dreams. — Graham Flanagan
23. "Drive" (Director: Nicolas Winding Refn, 2011)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Drive" isn't just one of the best movies of the decade, but it features one of the best opening scenes of the decade, a quiet but tense getaway sequence that perfectly sets the tone for the rest of the film. Ryan Gosling's anonymous Driver lays out the rules: his client has a five-minute window to get in and get out ... anything outside of that, they're on their own. Nicolas Winding Refn's "Drive" is, for long stretches, a meditative movie unconcerned with bombastic action sequences. But it will suddenly blindside the viewer with bursts of violence that ensure we are never perfectly comfortable with what we're seeing on screen. — Travis Clark
22. "Roma" (Director: Alfonso Cuarón, 2018)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Master filmmaker, Alfonso Cuarón, crafts a beautiful portrait of someone who goes unseen. Cleo (Yalitza Aparicio Martínez), the domestic worker for a well-to-do family in Mexico, lives life bearing the burden of so many. She does this with grace and strength, all but knowing she'll never be recognized for what she's able to accomplish. Adding to her pain, she's often mistreated by the family she works for and by people in her personal life. — A.C. Fowler
21. "Mother!" (Director: Darren Aronofsky, 2017)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The polarized reactions to "Mother!" didn't come as much of a surprise to its director, the often divisive Darren Aronofsky. After all, he described writing the script in the throes of a disturbing fever dream. Onscreen that experience translates into a two-hour assault on the senses, capturing the destructive effects of an artist's vanity and the psychological horror of violated boundaries. The dizzying spectacle is grounded in a showcase performance from Jennifer Lawrence, who plays the devoted homemaker trapped in Aronofsky's nightmare. — Meredith Geaghan-Breiner
20. "The Grand Budapest Hotel" (Director: Wes Anderson, 2016)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
When you combine an excellent ensemble cast, a central European dreamscape, and Wes Anderson, you get the genre defying Grand Budapest Hotel. The film features a masterful use of story framing as reflected by the use of three different aspect ratios. We follow the hilarious and heartfelt adventures of Zero (Tony Revolori/ F.Murray Abraham) and M. Gustave (Ralph Fiennes) as they run for their lives and solve a murder. — Ally Giannini
19. "First Reformed" (Director: Paul Schrader, 2018)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The film's conversations about depression and the irreversible effects of climate change brings on a deep sadness that's uncomfortable to sit with. Ethan Hawke, as a lonely, dying pastor, crafts a quiet and powerfully engaging character. We see how one person's despair is transferred like a debt to another, and how despair leads to something more extreme. — A.C. Fowler
18. "Nightcrawler" (Director: Dan Gilroy, 2014)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Read into "Nightcrawler's" deeper themes however you want. At its face value, it's a thrilling ride with Jake Gyllenhaal who plays Louis Bloom, a petty criminal at first, only to become what can only be described as pure evil. Bloom films car crashes and crime scenes and sells the tapes to a local news station, and as time goes on, his appetite for gruesome footage becomes more powerful than anything he can control. The film is both sleek and gritty – it's hard to take your eyes off the screen, both because it's absolutely gorgeous and because you're afraid you're going to miss something that only Bloom can see. — Sydney Kramer
17. "Dunkirk" (Director: Christopher Nolan, 2017)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The first thing that arrests the audience is just how visually and audibly astounding "Dunkirk" is. Nolan captures such moving and intense images that give us a window into the Second World War, with remarkable beauty. What makes "Dunkirk" work, though, is that Nolan has written a film that captures not just the horrors of war, but the range of emotions that come between the moments of wartime conflict. — A.C. Fowler
16. "Black Swan" (Director: Darren Aronofsky, 2010)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
In "Black Swan," Darren Aronofsky created one of the best psychological horror movies in recent memory against one of the most unimaginable backdrops: ballet. Natalie Portman deservedly won her first Oscar as a dancer driven mad by ambition, obsession, and jealousy. Aronofsky proved himself a master of the genre by creating a work that made you see the world a little differently when you left the theater. — Graham Flanagan
15. "The Tree of Life" (Director: Terrence Malick, 2011)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
It's not easy to make a movie that has both the scale of a single human lifetime and of the age of the universe. But Terrence Malick has shown us how they can be the same thing. "The Tree of Life" is a roving, gorgeous look at how people grapple with infinity without falling into the traps of narcissism. — Jacob Shamsian
14. "Her" (Director: Spike Jonze, 2013)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Her," a movie about the love affair between a man and an AI, does an amazing job of capturing humanity's growing dependence on tech, and the deep distance it has created between people. And because of that, we the viewers could understand how this unnatural love could occur. — Jethro Nededog
13. "Inside Llewyn Davis" (Directors: Joel Cohen and Ethan Cohen, 2013)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The Coen Brothers constantly vacillate between the silly ("Burn After Reading") and the serious ("No Country for Old Men"), but what they always seem to have in common is never letting their characters get away safe. That is also the case for the melancholy "Inside Llewyn Davis," the story of the rise and fall of a folk musician in 1960s New York, that's all the fall and none of the rise. It's an authentic look at artistry with Oscar Isaac giving one of the great performances of the decade. And as a bonus, it has a soundtrack you'll want to listen to on loop. — Ian Phillips
12. "The Master" (Director: Paul Thomas Anderson, 2012)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"The Master" is both loud and quiet, beautiful and terrifying. It follows Freddie Quell (Joaquin Phoenix) as he attempts to acclimate to life after World War II and finds cult leader Lancaster Dodd (Phillip Seymour Hoffman). The pair's strange relationship is tumultuous, to say the least, and the audience is taken on a journey that some interpret as being an account of the beginnings of Scientology. Whatever its true meaning, all three lead actors (Phoenix, Hoffman, and Amy Adams) received Academy Award nominations for their performances and it's no doubt one of the decade's most interesting screenplays about trying to find yourself in the world. — Sydney Kramer
11. "Frances Ha" (Director: Noah Baumbach, 2012)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Written by Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach, Frances Ha is half "Catcher in the Rye," half "Broad City." Gerwig plays Frances Halladay, a 20-something struggling to make ends meet in New York, on top of managing the kinds of strained relationships that come with not quite feeling like an adult, but instead, feeling like an old teenager. As you age, you have to come to terms with reality and "Frances Ha" does a great job of exploring this with dark humor that only makes you feel a little depressed, but in a good way. — Sydney Kramer
10. "Call Me by Your Name" (Director: Luca Guadagnino, 2017)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The mood of "Call Me by Your Name" mirrors the hot and relaxing Italian summer days that are depicted in the film. Set in 1983, "Call Me by Your Name" tells the story of the slow-burn romance between two young lovers, Elio and Oliver. Luca Guadagnino's stylized direction is entrancing, as are the performances by Armie Hammer and Timothée Chalamet. "Call Me by Your Name" is a realistic depiction of young love that is amplified by a divine score from Sufjan Stevens. All in all, any movie that can forever change the way that society looks at peaches is a film worth celebrating. — Carter Thallon
9. "Eighth Grade" (Director: Bo Burnham, 2018)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Seeing life itself play out with such specific detail can be scary. And that's what we get with "Eighth Grade." In his script, writer/director Bo Burnham has somehow captured something both individual and universal. The film is of its time — Kayla (Elsie Fisher) deals with social media, technology, and changing social attitudes. Burnham smartly makes the story one that is distinctly Kayla's by not only tying it to her generation, her culture, and her gender, but also her individual personality. Even without living your own middle school life in the time of YouTube videos or the pervasive use of the internet; without experiencing the joys and pains of American girlhood firsthand; without having a similar sort of loosey-goosey relationship with one's parents, at the heart of the film is an experience that we all can relate to. — A.C. Fowler
8. "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse" (Directors: Peter Ramsey, Bob Persichetti, and Rodney Rothman 2018)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse" fully delivers on story, which is a tough challenge for any film, but especially a film released in this context — we've seen far too many iterations of Spider-Man in less than two decades and frankly the zeitgeist is a bit fatigued by the constant reboots. Additionally, the animation is the wild combination of the uber-saturated 2D comic-book look, with it's grid-like color cells, and computer generated animation that, quite simply, is like nothing we've ever seen before. — A.C. Fowler
7. "The Florida Project" (Director: Sean Baker, 2017)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"The Florida Project's" brightly colored cinematography contrasts with the heavy nature of the film's subject matter to create a darkly beautiful film about childhood. The film is about Moonee (Brooklyn Prince), a 6 year old girl living with her struggling mother in one of the motels surrounding Disney World. The fully realized characters are the heart of this film and are elevated by the amazing performances by Willem Dafoe and the rest of the cast (which is especially impressive considering that no one in the film besides Dafoe had ever acted before in a film). Like in his previous film "Tangerine," Sean Baker acts as writer, director, and editor, proving that he is a master of his craft. — Carter Thallon
6. "The Social Network" (Director: David Fincher, 2010)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
On a surface level, "The Social Network" is about the rise of Mark Zuckerberg and Facebook, but the film is much more interested in the human aspect of the story. David Fincher brings Aaron Sorkin's neo-Shakespearean screenplay to life — perfectly balancing a dozen characters, time-skips, and intertwining narrative arcs. And Jesse Eisenberg delivers his best performance ever. When you put all of that together, you get an outstanding film that hopefully will outlive Facebook itself. — Carter Thallon
5. "Lady Bird" (Director: Greta Gerwig, 2017)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Greta Gerwig and Saoirse Ronan are a match made in indie Hollywood heaven. "Lady Bird" carries the same wit and tone we've seen in films Gerwig has starred in, but with her at the reigns, we get a window into her soul as she shows us the painful and endlessly funny roller coaster that is the life of a teenage Catholic school rebel. — A.C. Fowler
4. "Mad Max: Fury Road" (Director: George Miller, 2015)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Set in the not-so distant dystopian future, "Mad Max: Fury Road" has a fairly straightforward plot — Max and Imperator Furiosa attempt to outrun and escape the warlord Immortan Joe and his caravan of deadly vehicles. Technically, the film is flawless — its acting, directing, stunts, editing, and choreography are all top notch. Additionally, the film's stripped-down plot allows room for the action to really shine. "Mad Max" has more memorable moments in one five-minute action sequence than other action movies have in their entire runtime. The film is wild, immersive, and hardly ever slows from its full-throttle action insanity. — Carter Thallon
The plot of "Boyhood'" is simple, it's about the day to day life of a boy, Mason (played by Ellar Coltrane), from age 6 until 18. One of the many things that makes "Boyhood" exceptional is that it was filmed over an 11 year period — a herculean filmmaking achievement. Linklater created a fulfilling narrative, slowly piecing it together as they filmed every summer from 2002 to 2013. A totally unique approach to creating a film, combined with Patricia Arquette, Ethan Hawke, and Linklater at the height of their powers created this stellar one-of-a-kind film. — Carter Thallon
2. "Moonlight" (Director: Barry Jenkins, 2016)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
From director Barry Jenkins, "Moonlight" follows Chiron, a boy living in the projects of Miami, as he grapples with his harsh home life and his sexuality. The film's earnest script is complimented by a dreamy pastel color palette, an aching score from Nicholas Britell, and an outstanding cast from top to bottom (including an Academy Award-winning performance from Mahershala Ali). — Carter Thallon
1. "Get Out" (Director: Jordan Peele, 2017)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Writer/director Jordan Peele announced himself as an auteur with "Get Out," which is a mystery/thriller and a spot-on commentary about race in America. The movie is both intense and funny, but more than anything it's an incredibly sharp critique of white liberalism and the lie of a post-racial America. — A.C. Fowler
The rise and Amazon and e-commerce are just a few factors that have forced traditional retailers to change the way they function.
From virtual and augmented reality and technological improvements to new e-commerce channels, here are six major ways shopping has changed in the last decade.
Shopping is different today than it was 10 years ago.
In the last decade, shopping has gone through a serious evolution that was in no small way impacted by the rise of e-commerce, Amazon, and augmented and virtual reality, as well as the decline of the department store.
"E-commerce giant Amazon got one component right of the shopping experience — they focused on access, ease and convenience when customers wanted it," Leesa Wytock, the group director of experience at global brand strategy firm Siegel+Gale, told Business Insider in an email.
The Amazon threat is just one of the factors spurring this shopping evolution. With the retail apocalypse ripping through the US, more than 9,100 stores are expected to close in 2019. Malls across the country are dying as department stores like Macy's and Sears, once important anchors for mall foot traffic, are closing down for good.
Stores and brands are being propelled into a new era of shopping, one where brick-and-mortar stores must adapt to survive.
Business Insider consulted with Wytock and Brian Byer, the vice president and general manager of Blue Fountain Media, to find the six biggest changes to shopping in the last decade.
Online shopping overtook general merchandise sales (including department store sales) for the first time ever in February, according to the US Census Bureau.
Major companies like Target and Walmart rely on online channels in addition to in-store sales.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
And companies that have failed to understand online channels for growth have suffered because of it.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Bed Bath & Beyond, for example, has been accused of failing to adapt to compete with online sellers.
3. The growth of Amazon has forced companies to adapt.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"E-commerce giant Amazon got one component right of the shopping experience — they focused on access, ease and convenience when customers wanted it," Wytock said.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Retailers have utilized different tactics to compete. Kohl's announced a partnership with Amazon in 2017 to accept returns for the e-commerce giant in its stores, a move that boosted traffic nearly 24% in the three weeks after the partnership began, data from inMarket revealed.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"The move aimed to lure more people to Kohl's locations and give Amazon a physical presence to simplify the return process," Wytock said.
5. Buy online, pick up in store — or BOPIS — is growing.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
This option helps customers avoid shipping costs, as shoppers can order online and then pick up items from designated locations in stores. Kohl's, for example, has lockers in some of its stores designated for this program.
"The ability to see how something looks on you, be it a cashmere sweater or a shade of eye shadow, was a competitive advantage brick-and-mortars had, until improvements like VR dressing rooms and customer service chatbots started embracing those missing functions," Byer said.
Only a few airlines have announced their deals so far, so scroll down to see what's available now, and check back here for the latest — we'll be updating this list constantly as new deals are announced.
Black Friday is perhaps the single most important day of the year for US retailers, even as Black Friday.
Last year, US retailers set a record with $6.22 billion in Black Friday business in online sales alone.
With the online component, Black Friday continues to include more than just electronics and toys. Even airlines have been jumping on board with sales and specials of their own.
So far, deals are rather sparse, but we expect more to be announced as Black Friday and Cyber Monday get closer.
We'll be updating this list as the world's airlines announce their Black Friday sales, so be sure to check back and refresh.
In the meantime, scroll down to find the best airline Black Friday deals of 2019.
KLM — which is co-owned with Air France by the larger Air France-KLM group — is offering a similar promotion for Flying Blue frequent flyer members.
Earn triple Flying Blue miles on round-trip flights from the US and Amsterdam when you book by December 2, and travel between December 7 and March 31, 2020.
Fly round-trip between Paris and New York in business class for just $1,000 if you book by November 26. The fares are valid on travel between now and April 30, subject to availability.
La Compagnie often offers competitive business class fares, but it's rare to see them go below $1,500.
We expect a ton of airlines to announce their Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals over the next few days as Thanksgiving draws closer. Be sure to bookmark this page and check back — we'll be updating it constantly as new deals are announced!
Napa Valley, also known as California's wine country, is made up of several towns and small districts in Napa County.
The area is north of San Francisco, and while it's most famous for its wineries, the area has a lot to offer for many types of travelers.
Business Insider spoke with real estate agent Nicole Needham from the brokerage Compass to get the inside scoop on how to enjoy Napa Valley, town by town.
For all wine enthusiasts looking to kick back and relax during the final weeks of the fall season, look no further than California's wine country, Napa Valley.
Napa Valley is north of the San Francisco Bay and roughly 70 miles from Sacramento. It's located in Napa County and is made up of several towns and small districts.
Along with world-renowned wineries, Napa Valley also boasts delicious dining options and scenic countryside views, making it the perfect spot for a fall getaway. But because it covers such a vast area, it can be hard for first-time visitors or prospective buyers to figure out where, exactly, they should land.
Business Insider spoke with real estate agent Nicole Needham from the brokerage Compass to get the inside scoop on how to enjoy Napa Valley. Needham represents homes all over Napa Valley, including multimillion-dollar spreads in the ritzy town of St. Helena, which was voted the best place to live in Napa County by ranking and review site Niche.
Keep reading for a look at what to do and where to go when you're in California's wine country.
Napa Valley is north of San Francisco Bay and is roughly 70 miles from Sacramento. It's located in Napa County and made up of several towns and small districts.
Every year, Napa Valley attracts millions of wine lovers. In 2016, it welcomed 3.5 million visitors. To put that number into perspective, Napa County as a whole has an estimated population of 140,386.
Napa Valley was born in the 1850s.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
According to The Wine Cellar Insider, the story of California's Wine Country began with a few planted vines on a 1,800-acre property named Oak Knoll. It has since become home to some of the world's most renowned wineries, including Chateau Montelena in Calistoga and Opus One Winery in Oakville.
Local real estate agent Nicole Needham helped Business Insider identify the best areas in Napa Valley based on what you're looking for, from the best place to dine to best place to party.
Keep reading for a look at what to do and where to go when you're in Napa Valley.
Best dining: For a good meal, head over to Yountville.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Yountville, a town made up of roughly 3,000 residents, is considered the culinary capital of Napa County.
Located in the heart of California's wine country, Yountville is home to the world-renowned French bistro, The French Laundry.
In addition to the award-winning 1,600-square-foot restaurant, the town offers an array of dining options that include everything from wood-fired pizza to Caribbean-inspired dishes.
Needham noted that her favorite place to dine in Yountville is Chef Michael Chiarello's Bottega, an Italian restaurant that serves everything from fresh pasta for dinner to Italian donuts for dessert.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"It has a very northern Italian feel even though you are in the wine country, and I think it melds both of them really well," Needham told Business Insider. "The food is really good and consistent and it has a really great outdoor patio."
Needham told Business Insider that downtown Napa tends to attract a slightly younger clientele with its bars and event venues.
The Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar at the Archer Hotel, according to Needham, is the best place to spend a night out in downtown Napa. Here, you can enjoy everything from live music to lobster corn dogs for $17 and specialty cocktails from $15 to $18.
According to Needham, Rutherford is home to the best hotel in all of Napa Valley, Auberge du Soleil, where the cheapest room will still cost you over $1,000 a night.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"Auberge Du Soleil is the French Laundry of hotels in the valley," Needham told Business Insider. "It is the most glamorous with first-class service."
Best investment: If you want to buy a house without breaking the bank, look no further than Calistoga.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Calistoga is often considered the last town in Napa Valley (but depending on which way you enter, it could be the first). This town is home to 5,281 residents and has a median home value of $527,200.
According to Needham, "Calistoga is a good area if you are on a budget."
In Calistoga, it's not unusual to see homes on the market for less than $1 million. And, despite its lower prices, Calistoga is still a great place for Californians to settle down in.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
According to ranking and review site Niche, Calistoga is the sixth-best place to live in Napa County.
Best of real estate: Now, if you're just looking to admire some beautiful homes, take a stroll through St. Helena.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
"St. Helena is the most developed. It has a wonderful school system, a great grocery store, a movie theater," Needham told Business Insider. "It's a very developed, high-end town to live in."
Here, while the median home value is $839,300, it's not unusual to see homes with listing prices upwards of $20 million.
"The outskirts of St. Helena, with its views and the high-quality vineyards, is the pinnacle of Napa Valley," Needham said.
This 1.16-acre estate is on the market for $4.995 million. Along with its stunning views, this property comes with everything from a pool to an orchard.
The town is considered, by many, the last point of entry into the valley, Needham explained to Business Insider. Because of this, it's set at a lower price point and often overshadowed by the other towns.
"A lot of people don't realize how much development has gone up in Calistoga," Needham told Business Insider.
On top of the various activities the town has to offer, it is also called home by boutique hotels and inns, offering guests an authentic countryside experience.
Best wineries: Sip on a glass of wine while enjoying the views in Rutherford.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
According to Needham, the place to go for Napa Valley's best wine is a 280-acre estate called Quintessa. For a 90-minute tour of the estate paired with sit-down tasting, it'll cost $85 per person.
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
According to the Quintessa website, 160 acres of the estate are planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Carménère.
Transferring to a four-year university from community college may save thousands of dollars. Four-year university grads tend to earn more money on average compared to all workers.
Student Loan Hero analyzed the 20 community colleges that offer students a quality education, plus the ability to easily transfer to four-year schools.
Here are the 20 best community colleges for transferring.
University tuition is more expensive than ever, and many families are saving money by sending kids to community college before transferring to a four-year school.
Students can save thousands of dollars if they make sure to take coursework that transfers to a university (and they don't exceed federal financial-aid time limits), according to US News. While 64% of jobs in 2026 will require no education beyond high school, four-year college grads still earn more than all workers.
Any dollar saved goes a long way, as the cost of undergraduate degrees rose by 213% for public schools and 129% for private schools, adjusting for inflation, as reported by Business Insider's Hillary Hoffower. More students have taken out loans to make up for rising college costs, resulting in a $1.5 trillion student debt deficit in the US.
For students looking to start at community college and get a four-year degree down the line, Student Loan Hero analyzed 20 top-notch two-year schools where the most students transfer out. The ranking looks at both how many students transfer out of the school, plus how many students earn degrees that can be used for credit at four-year schools.
"These community colleges were the very best we found at preparing their students for the next step, whether that's transferring to a four-year school or turning an associate's degree into a budding career,"Student Loan Hero senior writer Andrew Pentis wrote.
Here are the 20 best community colleges for transferring to a four-year school.
Black Friday is coming up quickly, but for some retailers like Walmart, the big holiday sales event has already begun.
Online and offline, Walmart is one of the most popular retailers to shop during Black Friday. This year, you can once again expect great deals on all the products you need for gifting and personal use.
You can now shop the best early Black Friday deals from Walmart's Deal Drops, or check out its Black Friday ad to see more of what will be on sale for Black Friday 2019.
We only chose products that meet our high standard of coverage, and that we've either used ourselves or researched carefully.
We compared the prices against other retailers like Target and Amazon and only included the deals that are the same or better (not including promotional discounts that come from using certain credit cards).
All deals are at least 20% off, with the occasional exception for products that are rarely discounted or provide an outsized value.
Best Buy and Target are also selling this 2018 model, 6th generation iPad, but you'll get the best Black Friday price at Walmart. It may not be the newest iPad, but it's still the best one you can buy because it has nearly all the same features as the more expensive iPad Air — just an older processor. The 6th-gen iPad features a sharp screen, high-end metal design, Apple Pencil support, a Touch ID fingerprint sensor, and a generous 128 GB storage.
2. Apple AirPods with Charging Case
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
AirPods don't go on sale often, so when they do, you should take advantage of the opportunity. On Amazon, the new AirPods Pro are $15 off (now $235), but if you're not looking to spend more than $200 and you prefer to shop on Walmart, the original AirPods are still a powerful and convenient alternative.
3. Powerbeats3 Wireless Earphones
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
The Powerbeats3 are one of the most popular models from Beats. Its comfortable earhooks make them optimal for workouts, they have a 12-hour battery life, and when they're close to your Apple device, they'll automatically pair. This particular set on sale is cool because it comes in four bright and eye-catching color options, instantly differentiating them from other earphones.
4. KitchenAid Classic Plus 4.5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
There's a reason why a KitchenAid stand mixer is considered a countertop staple. The 4.5-quart bowl is up for any mixing challenge, featuring 10 different speeds to help you mix, knead, and whip up ingredients. If you're a beginner baker on a budget, we recommend this mixer because it's versatile, dependable, and quiet. Compared to other stand mixer models, it has the least powerful motor.
5. Google Smart Light Starter Kit
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
If you already have a TV streaming device that you love, another Google Home bundle you might like is the starter kit to a smart lighting setup. The GE bulb screws on like a regular light bulb, but is much cooler than your average light bulb. You can dim the lights, turn them on and off, and create routines so you never have to get up to hit the light switch again.
6. iRobot Roomba 960 Robot Vacuum
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Save time and energy on cleaning tasks by investing in a robot vacuum. The iRobot 960 is one of the brand's bestsellers for good reason: It works on all types of surfaces, cleans thoroughly and efficiently, and can be tracked through the corresponding app. Compared to other robot vacuums, it's on the higher end of the price spectrum, but it's certainly not the priciest. You can save $251 on it during Black Friday.
7. Google Smart TV Kit
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
You probably can't go a day without using Google at least once. The Google Home Mini captures the capabilities of Google Assistant and the Google search engine in a tiny device and can accomplish a huge number of tasks, from giving you a preview of your week's schedule to controlling your smart home devices. This Walmart Exclusive pairs it with a TV streamer that lets you stream entertainment right from your phone.
8. Farberware 3.2 Quart Digital Air Fryer
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
People who own air fryers love the appliances for letting them "fry" their favorite foods without oil. Most models cost at least $50, but you can get this Farberware digital air fryer for an affordable price this Black Friday, lowering the barriers of entry to healthier and faster cooking.
9. HP 14 Laptop
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Start the new year with a new laptop that doesn't cost a fortune. This HP laptop offers a fast experience and long battery life (plus it can charge from 0% to 50% in just 45 minutes). It's thin and fairly light at 3.24 pounds, so it won't weigh you down as you trek around campus or the city.
Walmart Black Friday 2019 FAQs:
Is Walmart open on Thanksgiving?
Walmart will be open on Thanksgiving, with stores operating at regular hours. Check your local Walmart store's hours to see what time it opens on Thanksgiving.
When does Walmart's Black Friday sale start?
Walmart has already launched its "Early Deals Drops," which you can shop below. We'll be showing you more of all the best deals here as we learn about them.
Last year, Walmart opened its doors at 6 p.m. local time on Thanksgiving (November 22), but online deals on products like LED TVs and laptops began showing up as early as November 8. The bulk of official Black Friday deals went live one day before Thanksgiving.
What should you buy?
According to shopping experts, the best deals will be on the following products: TVs, smart home devices, gaming consoles, video games, and kitchen appliances.
Here's where you can find the top brands in each of those categories on Walmart's website:
Many of the same products go on sale every year, so you can use the following as a cheat sheet to Walmart's deals this year. Note: The information reflects last year's prices.
It had a huge domestic opening, too, with $130 million. That's significantly more than the $67.4 million the first "Frozen" earned in its three-day domestic debut in 2013 (it earned $93.6 million over that five-day Thanksgiving weekend).
But "Frozen II" still failed to top some of the biggest animated movies of all time in its domestic premiere.
We rounded up the biggest animated openings of all time below, unadjusted for inflation. They include plenty of Disney and Pixar offerings, but also some notable entries from Dreamworks.
What critics said: "There are enough under-the-radar subtleties, rendered with a refreshing lack of smart-aleckiness, to make Zootopia feel current and fresh. It's a modest, unassuming entertainment that's motored by a sly sensibility."— Time Magazine
12. "Monsters University" (2013)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Domestic opening: $82.43 million
Domestic total: $268.5 million
Global total: $743.6 million
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 80%
What critics said: "I'm not sure I needed to revisit Mike and Sulley's world 12 years later (or, looked at from their point of view, earlier). But once you find yourself whisked over the threshold, it's a colorful, funny, charming place to spend an afternoon."— Slate
11. "Despicable Me 2" (2013)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Domestic opening: $83.5 million
Domestic total: $368 million
Global total: $970.8 million
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 75%
What critics said: "Codirectors Chris Renaud and Pierre Coffin, who do Minion voices expertly, never let up on the laughs. A fart joke in 3-D may not be three times as wacky, but the high spirits of Despicable Me 2 are irresistible fun."— Rolling Stone
10. "Inside Out" (2015)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Domestic opening: $90.44 million
Domestic total: $356.5 million
Global total: $857.6 million
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 98%
What critics said: "What's most refreshing about 'Inside Out' is its inversion of the standard prescriptions of big-budget animation: It's ultimately about the importance of embracing sadness."— Associated Press
9. "The Secret Life of Pets" (2016)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Domestic opening: $104.35 million
Domestic total: $368.4 million
Global total: $875.5 million
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 73%
What critics said: "There's something quietly therapeutic about spending 90 minutes with some nutty, heroic furballs on a hero's journey with very low stakes."— The Atlantic
8. "Shrek 2" (2004)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Domestic opening: $108 million
Domestic total: $441.2 million
Global total: $923 million
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 89%
What critics said: "Can an ogre live happily ever after? Can fairy tale characters be content with their fairy tale lives? Can an Oscar-winning animated success generate a successful sequel? To all these questions, Shrek 2 is happy to answer yes, yes and yes."— Los Angeles Times
7. "Toy Story 3" (2010)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Domestic opening: $110.3 million
Domestic total: $415 million
Global total: $1.07 billion
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 98%
What critics said: "It's still more inventive, clever and laugh-out-loud funny than any other movie out there now."— The Wrap
6. "Minions" (2015)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Domestic opening: $115.7 million
Domestic total: $336 million
Global total: $1.16 billion
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 55%
What critics said: "With its episodic stream of slapstick gags, Minions has moments of piquant absurdity, but mostly its shrill-but-cutesy anarchy works as a visual sugar rush for the preschool set."— Globe and Mail
5. "Toy Story 4" (2019)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Domestic opening: $120.9 million
Domestic total: $434 million
Global total: $1.073 billion
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 97%
What critics said: "The latest installment, 'Toy Story 4,' is perhaps the bleakest (and most beautiful) of them all."— Salon
4. "Frozen II" (2019)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Domestic opening: $130 million
Domestic total (so far): $130 million
Global total (so far): $350 million
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 75%
What critics said: "Because the first movie generated such a bracing gust of enthusiasm, Frozen 2 will inevitably be nitpicked and judged against those lofty standards. Still, there's plenty to enjoy for those willing to chill out, and yes, let the past go."— CNN
3. "Finding Dory" (2016)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Domestic opening: $135 million
Domestic total: $486.3 million
Global total: $1.28 billion
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 94%
What critics said: "It's watchable, with all the wonderful animation technique that we are in danger of taking for granted. But it's basically a footnote or retread of the movie which melted everyone's heart 12 years ago."— Guardian
2. "Incredibles 2" (2018)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Domestic opening: $182.7 million
Domestic total: $608.6 million
Global total: $1.24 billion
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 94%
What critics said: "Every frame is packed with fantastic detail and cutting-edge animated magic while staying true to the original movie's charming visual feel."— CNet
1. "The Lion King" (2019)
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.
Domestic opening: $191.8 million
Domestic total: $543.6 million
Global total: $1.65 billion
Rotten Tomatoes critic score: 53%
What critics said: "By this point, Disney's do-overs feel a lot like their cash-grabby, inspiration-free '90s direct-to-video sequels, only with vastly better production values."— San Diego Reader
