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The kind you could actually wear post-nuptials. J. Crew Arabelle Long Dress in Silk Chiffon, $365; jcrew.com Whistles Cora Lace Dress, $160; whistles.com Diane von Furstenberg Nina Floor-Length Wrap Dress, $2,049; mytheresa.com Lanvin Gathered Jersey-Crepe Gown, $3,985; net-a-porter.com Dolce & Gabbana Lace Dress, $3,175; mytheresa.com Mango Draped Gown, $130; mango.com H&M Circle Dress in Lace, $70; hm.com Catherine Deane Whisper Dress, $890; farfetch.com Haute Hippe Gown with Cascading Ruffle, $895; marissacollections.com Adam Lippes Satin Paneled Silk-Crepe Midi Dress, $890; net-a-porter.com ModCloth Dream of Buttercream Dress, $52; modcloth.com Mango Bead Gown, $170; mango.com J. Crew Cathleen Dress in Silk Dupioni, $250; jcrew.com Mango Lace Gown, $120; mango.com Gucci Silk-Cloqué Dress, $1,750; net-a-porter.com Topshop Satin Cross-Over Maxi Dress, $116; topshop.com Halston Heritage Satin-Trimmed Cotton and Silk-Blend Dress, $425; net-a-porter.com River Island Dark Blue Necklace Trim Maxi Dress, $100; riverisland.com Stop Staring Billion Dollar Baby, $154; stopstaringclothing.com 3.1 Phillip Lim A-Line Dress With Chiffon Detail, $695; marissacollections.com Issa Lizzie Silk-Satin Dress, $735; matchesfashion.com Tome Navy Faille Peplum Dres, $1,150; shoplesnouvelles.com Whistles Tami Crepe Dress, $375; whistles.com J Crew Lexie Dress in Classic Faille, $200; jcrew.com Altuzarra Murakami Satin and Crepe Dress, $1,946; mytheresa.com Notte by Marchesa Pleated Silk-Satin and Crepe Dress, $272; theoutnet.com Vivienne Westwood Anglomania 3/4 Length Dress, $605; thecorner.com Maria Lucia Hohan Milena Dress, $1,096; farfetch.com Modcloth Pine All Mine Dress, $180; modcloth.com Jil Sander Navy Satin Strapless Dress, $825; stylebop.com Preen By Thornton Bregazzi Flo Dress, $1,405; net-a-poter.com Tibi Simona Jacquard Dress, $395; tibi.com Modcloth Union Square Soirée Dress, $210; modcloth.com Alice and Olivia Alessandra Pleated Gown, $1,397; aliceandolivia.com Dorothy Perkins Jolie Moi Black Dot Full Circle Dress, $44; dorothyperkins.com Alice and Olivia Baily Jacquard Dress, $973; mytheresa.com Erika Cavallini Semi Couture Floral Print Midi Dress, $465; farfetch.com Giambattista Valli Floral-Print Silk-Georgette Gown, $4,485; net-a-porter.com H&M Brocade Dress, $70; hm.com Red Valentino Heart Print Dress, $778; farfetch.com | 4 | 1,600 | lifestyle |
Make A Statement With Your Scarf You wouldn't think Ashley Benson's scarf wouldn't work with her edgy black-and-burgundy leather look, but it totally makes her outfit! Bright accessories are a great way to liven up your layers, and get more wear out of your summery accessories. The trick to make clashing look cool (not cray-cray) is to bring in just a pop with a fun scarf and stick to simple solids for the rest of your look! Throw A Long Cardi-Coat Over Everything Snuggle up in a long, roomy cardigan to score Willow Shields' low-key, boho vibe. The longer, roomier mix between a cardigan and a coat is perfect for layering and gives anything from your fave lived-in jeans to floral dresses a cozy-cool look. Play With Length! Copy Karlie Kloss' low-key but polished look on those in-between season days when you have no idea what to wear to school! Rest a pea coat on your shoudlers for a less bulky, more fashion-y way to bundle up in the morning while it's still frosty; when it warms up in the afternoon, ankle-grazing trousers, a tucked-in tee and slip-on sneaks will look totally appropriate on their own! Mix Vibes Ace Hailee Steinfeld's geek-chic style by adding some edge to the classic preppy sweater-over-collared-shirt combo, with a subtle but cool clash of prints and (faux) leather skinnies. Brighten Up Just because summer's officially over doesn't mean you have to pack away all the bright colors! Amp up your cold-weather style with a bright blazer and colorful accessories. Emma Stone's bright blue blazer takes a basic jeans-and-blouse combo from standard to stand-out! And don't be afraid to go bright with your accessories too how cute are Emma's green hat and pastel brogues? Break Up Your Black Channel Chloe Grace Moretz' cool vibe with a moto jacket and tough boots. To keep the look from feeling dreary, swap the black pants for a pair of grey jeans they'll look just as cool but soften the look a touch. Liven Up Neutrals A pop of color like Blake Lively's bold, graphic scarf will protect you from from the cold-weather blues and add some style to your basic black coat. Faux leather gloves are also a chic alternative to chunky mittens. You know, for when you're channeling Serena van der Woodsen on a crisp winter day. Rock a Newer (and Cuter!) Thermal Thermals aren't just for layering under your snowpants and coat! Now they come in tons of fun prints and designs that are meant to be shown off! The key to making thermals work for everyday is to mix up your textures. Follow Cher Lloyd's lead and pair the casual material with tougher textures like denim skinnies and a leather moto jacket for a casual, but not sloppy look. Go the Alernative Jacket Route Despite it's name, Grandpa cardis can look totally chic, so they're a great alternative to a jacket for chilly but not freezing weekend trips to the mall or movies. Hayden Pannettiere's winter-white version is roomy enough to fit over her layers without looking bulky, but fitted enough so it doesn't look she's actually wearing her grandpa's cardi! Try Sweater Sleeves Not ready to part with your go-to denim jacket? Try Katy Perry's compromise! The sweater sleeves on her tribal-meets-denim jacket are really warm, but the denim body is more light-weight, so it's perfect for layering over a tee and under a coat when it gets colder. We're also digging Katy's wide-brim hat: Covering your ears doesn't have to mean sacrificing your style. Add Extra Warmth Without the Extra Weight Who says you have to wear long-sleeves until spring? Selena keeps warm in a snuggly scarf and short-sleeve tunic. Rock A Statement Coat Thigh-high sweater socks, tights, and knee-high boots equal three layers of chic warmth! When rocking a seriously glam faux-fur coat like Vanessa's, keep the rest of your look simple and fitted so it doesn't come off as try-hard. Balance Boxy With Fitted A classic toggle coat will never go out of style (just like Tay, herself!), but it can look boxy so choosing the right bottoms is crucial. Opt for skinny jeans and oxfords for a low-key, lean look. | 4 | 1,601 | lifestyle |
These new pieces, straight from the world of design, are sure to make your space the coolest in town. Tall Order Filipino designer Ito Kish was inspired by the ornate balustrades that are ubiquitous in homes in his native country to create the regal Gregoria lounge, made from durable gmelina wood with a handcrafted rattan seat. Shown in a natural finish, it can be ordered in any custom color. It measures 71" w. x 32.25" d. x 67.75" h. and costs $7,750; a chair version is also available.kish.ph Burning Bright Kristin Victoria Barron looks to classical Greek and Etruscan ceramics for her Toteu candlesticks of cast brass and hand-turned burl wood from Aesculus trees. Each is unique, ranging from 7.75" to 10" h., and costs from $850 to $950.212-226-7378; ateliercourbet.com Blue Period For Indigo Storm, her take on traditional creamware, Faye Toogood created two patterns small dots and large swirls using rich Delft-blue pigment. The collection, a collaboration with 1882 Ltd. in Stoke-on-Trent, England, includes a 7.5" dia. bowl and a 10" dia. plate, $26 each.323-653-8278; tableartonline.com Cool Shades Claudio Bellini's laminated-glass Labirinto cocktail table for Natuzzi Italia doubles as a bookcase. Blue/Violet/Smoke, shown, is one of two colorways. The 49" l. x 33" w. x 13" h. piece, which moves on hidden casters, costs $1,610.natuzzi.us Fine Lines British designer Tom Faulkner's voluptuous yet pared-down steel Vienna chair pays tribute to both the undulations of Art Nouveau and modernist rigor. Bronze, shown, is one of a range of finishes; the seat can be covered in c.o.m. The 23.25" w. x 24" d. x 35.5" h. piece costs $1,447.011-44-20-7351-7272; tomfaulkner.co.uk Dream Weaver Working with Norwegian weavers Røros Tweed, Paris-based furniture designer Inga Sempé fashioned the Agnes wool blanket in her trademark vivid hues, with a check pattern on one side and dashes on the other. It measures 51.25" x 78.75" and costs $375. Red/Blue/Natural, shown, is one of four colorways.781-444-7745; rorostweed.com Screen Gem Interiors firm Yabu Pushelberg joined forces with Marlieke Van Rossum, a Dutch designer known for her wood furniture, to produce the five-panel Paravant folding screen. Made of solid oak and available in a range of finishes, it measures 72" l. x 82.5" h. x 1.25" d. and can be ordered in custom sizes. It costs $6,070.212-453-9880; avenue-road.com A Different Angle Laura Kirar was inspired by Paris in the 1920s, the era of Art Deco and Cubism, for her angular Lola chaise, a new addition to her line for Baker Furniture. Shown in American walnut and covered with Baker's 73-819 velvet, it measures 90.5" w. x 31.5" d. x 31.5" h. and costs $10,428. It can also be ordered in any of the firm's wood finishes or fabrics, or c.o.m.800-592-2537; bakerfurniture.com A New Leaf The venerable Austrian crystal maker Lobmeyr commissioned Vienna design team Kim+Heep to craft Lily, a suitably elegant successor to Josef Hoffmann's 1917 Patrician glassware. The teacup and saucer, left, costs $164; the Mokka espresso cup with gilt-brass saucer is $261.212-226-2921; stillfried.com | 4 | 1,602 | lifestyle |
They're a classic for a reason--and they'll keep you toasty all winter long. Tinley Road fisherman turtleneck, $98; Piperlime. TNA revelstoke sweater, $95; Aritzia. Cable-knit sweater, $49; Joe Fresh. Leala cropped sweater, $150; Club Monaco. Cable-knit dress, $99; H&M. Signature cotton fisherman sweater, $89; L.L.Bean. Cable-knit turtleneck sweater, $27.80; Forever21. Angie sweater, $58; Abercrombie & Fitch. Mixed cable-knit pullover, $98; Banana Republic. Cable turtleneck sweater, $90; Eddie Bauer. Jersey hybrid cable jumper, $76; Topshop. | 4 | 1,603 | lifestyle |
Photographer Doug Menuez follows some of the world's most influential tech titans through their growing pains in Fearless Genius: The Digital Revolution in Silicon Valley 1985-2000. Between 1985 and 2000, photographer Doug Menuez shot incredible behind-the-scenes photos of life inside Silicon Valley. Menuez captured amazing shots of Steve Jobs as he tried to launch NeXT and got unprecedented access to tech companies such as Adobe, Intel, Netscape, and Microsoft. And then, those pictures sat unused for years.Earlier this year the images finally saw the light of day as part of Fearless Genius: The Digital Revolution in Silicon Valley, 1985-2000, a book that traces 15 years of the golden age of Silicon Valley... and almost makes Steve Jobs looks like a human.Here's a collection of some of Menuez's best shots, starting with Steve Jobs explaining 10-year technology development cycles. The Day Ross Perot Gave Steve Jobs $20 Million Steve was a consummate showman who understood the power of a compelling setting. This was never more apparent than at this incongruously formal lunch he hosted for Ross Perot and the NeXT board of directors in the middle of the abandoned warehouse he planned to turn into the NeXT factory. He told Perot that they were building the most advanced robotic assembly line in the world and that no human hands would be assembling hardware. He predicted that NeXT would be the last billion dollar a year company in Silicon Valley and that they would ship ten thousand computers a month. Perot, who was then championing a movement to reform education in the United States, was blown away by the presentation and invested $20 million, becoming a key board member and giving NeXT a crucial lifeline. Steve Jobs Returning from a Visit to the New Factory Although Steve could be extremely rude, critical, and occasionally even vindictive, he also was incredibly joyful, with an infectious grin and energy that was irresistible. In the early days at NeXT he would often come bounding in, hungry to get to work. Still, there were not too many unrestrained moments of hilarity such as this one, when Steve was riding back from a visit to the newly chosen factory site with the company employees in an old, rented yellow school bus. Geek Sex. Mountain View, California, 1991 Real-life boyfriend and girlfriend act out a rudimentary electrical metaphor at an Adobe Halloween party. Technology workers were notoriously socially inept and often shy, especially male engineers. Fantasy games and role playing were popular, and any opportunity to dress in costumes was welcomed. This couple repeated the ritual all over the company to the delight of fellow workers. The Painter David Hockney Rests during the First Photoshop Invitational As digital technology grew more powerful, Silicon Valley became an unexpected crossroads of culture. Artists arrived from all over the world, eager to experiment and hang out at happenings such as the TED conference, creating a freeway and office park version of what Paris in the twenties must have felt like. Producer Quincy Jones and musicians Peter Gabriel and Herbie Hancock were early adopters. Graham Nash was so taken he started his own fine art digital printing business. Tom Wolfe had been out to write about Bob Noyce, the coinventor of the integrated circuit, and lots of writers followed, including Steve Jobss half sister Mona Simpson. George Lucas was a pioneer in digital film, as was Francis Ford Coppola. The cultural ground was shifting, with the avantgarde gathering to push new digital ideas into the zeitgeist.Here, painter David Hockney, holding one of his beloved dachshunds, attends Russell Browns first Adobe Photoshop Invitational, where he learned how to use the first release version of Photoshop, happily smoking in the computer room and playing with his dogs on breaks. Susan Kare Is Part of Your Daily Life Its not a stretch to say that Susan Kares playful icons and user interface design have impacted the daily lives of hundreds of millions of people around the world. Susan was part of the original Mac team and designed the original Mac icons and much of the user interface. Leaving Apple with Steve after his ouster, she became a cofounder and creative director at NeXT Computer, where she oversaw the creation of its icons and logo, working with the legendary Paul Rand. Later she designed or redesigned icons for many other computer operating systems, including Windows and IBMs OS/2. Here shes listening to Steve at an off-site meeting with her colleague Kim Jenkins (right), as he discusses the unfinished tasks facing the company. Kim, a key member of the marketing team, came to NeXT from Microsoft, where the education division she started was profitable beyond anyones expectations, giving real competition to Apple, which had previously dominated the education market. Russell Brown in Costume In a public defense of the early Photoshop, Adobe Systems creative director Russell Brown pointedly said that software is just a simple tool, like a hammer. You can use it to build a house or tear one down. Many photographers and graphic designers resisted digital technology and heavily criticized Photoshop. Perhaps more than anyone else, Russell Brown deserves credit for the dominance of Photoshop by winning over the creative community with his Photoshop classes and lectures where influential photographers, graphic designers, and artists were invited to come learn the software. Steve Jobs Pretending to Be Human Steve was not the kind of guy who ever seemed to relax. So it was surprising to see Steve kicking this beach ball around at a company picnic. He seemed to be having a good time, but it felt more like a performance designed to encourage the team to relax. Excerpted from the book Fearless Genius: The Digital Revolution in Silicon Valley 1985-2000 by Doug Menuez, Atria Books. Foreword by Elliott Erwitt, Introduction by Kurt Andersen.Prints available for purchase through Peter Fetterman Gallery | 3 | 1,604 | finance |
These classic pies date back to the turn of the century when American's were eating pie for dessert like it was a national past time. Vintage Pies These once-iconic American pies are still known in parts of the country, but are now getting a lot more exposure, thanks to a resurgence in the popularity of authentic and local foods. They're an ingenious way to eat a history lesson while serving up a one-of-a-kind dessert that everyone will love. Browse: Amazing pie recipes Single Piecrust All great pies start with a great crust. Anne Haynie Collins' crust is made with lard or vegetable shortening to ensure a flaky foundation that will work perfectly with any one of her classic recipes. Recipe: Single Piecrust Browse: More recipes for crust Shaker Lemon Pie In the early part of the 19th century, citrus fruits were very expensive, so the Shakers, being simple and frugal, wanted to use the whole lemon. The longer the lemons macerate, the softer the rind becomes. Recipe: Shaker Lemon Pie Browse: Lemon pie recipes Bob Andy Pie This pie has its roots in the Amish communities of the Midwest. The common story behind the name: an Amish farmer, after tasting this pie, said it was as good as Bob and Andy, his two prize plow horses. As the custard bakes, some of the cinnamon sinks to the bottom, giving this pie a layered look when sliced. Recipe: Bob Andy Pie Browse: Cinnamon pie recipes Coconut Cream Pie In 1895, Franklin Baker, a Philadelphia flour miller, received a cargo of coconuts from Cuba in payment for a consignment of flour. When he was unable to sell them, he set up a factory for shredding and drying the coconut meat. Soon, coconut desserts were all the rage. Youll find coconut spelled cocoanut in old recipe books. Recipe: Coconut Cream Pie Browse: Cream pie recipes Stack Pie Stack pie dates back to colonial days. When people went visiting, they brought food, and needed something that traveled well. Space was also at a premium, so stacking pies and holding them together with icing was the answer. Three to five pies, or sometimes even six, were baked with a shallow filling and stacked, with a thin layer of icing spread between them. You will want to serve very thin slices of this. Recipe: Stack Pie Browse: Layered dessert recipes | 0 | 1,605 | foodanddrink |
Crysta Danaher and Bill Anderson knew they were changing their lives when they independently decided to get weight-loss surgery. But they had no idea they would meet their future spouses shortly after. They met in a support group for people who had gone through bariatric surgery, and became friends first. "My mom knew him first and always said, 'I wish you'd meet a guy like Bill,'" Crysta told the Detroit Free Press . Two years after they started dating, Bill proposed after running the New York City Marathon. The couple decided to get married in the exact room at the hospital where they met. The hospital was under construction at the time, and just finished work a week before the big day. Their yoga instructor officiated, and the couple sported Converse sneakers with their formal duds. As a couple, Crysta and Bill have completely altered their lifestyle. Bill started at 459 pounds and now weighs about 250, and Crysta has lost about 180 pounds. They both have to watch what they eat extremely carefully, or else they feel sick. And they're both committed to staying fit; Bill now has run two marathons. "There isn't any aspect of my life that [weight loss] hasn't changed," Bill told the newspaper. "From being able to run to finding love, it's changed everything." Photos by Tanya Moutzalias | 4 | 1,606 | lifestyle |
The Supreme Court is taking up Obamacare again. And it could prove disastrous for the administration and for millions of individuals and families who have found affordable coverage under the law. The high court will hear oral arguments this morning in King v. Burwell , a lawsuit that contests the financial help available to some enrollees on the federal insurance exchanges in 36 states. It makes a similar argument as a better-known case, Halbig v. Burwell . Without subsidies, health reform starts to fall apart. Earlier this summer, the US Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit ruled for the government in King , asserting that subsidies are legal on all exchanges. The plaintiffs appealed the decision to the Supreme Court in August. The Court granted that petition in early November, a decision that required votes from four or more justices. "What's troubling is that four justices apparently think or at least are inclined to think that King was wrongly decided," Nicholas Bagley, a law professor at the University of Michigan, wrote when the Supreme Court agreed to hear the case in November. "As I've said before, there's no other reason to take King ." ( Related: Watch the Daily Show's Jon Stewart explain the case. ) What's the case about? According to the challengers, the plain text of the Affordable Care Act limits the federal subsidies to states that actively established their own insurance exchanges. In Obamacare's first year, only 14 states and the District of Columbia did that; the other 36 defaulted to federally-operated exchanges run through HealthCare.gov. The related case, Halbig v. Burwell , garnered considerable attention over the summer. In Halbig , a three-judge panel from the DC Circuit Court ruled to strike the contested subsidies. However, that decision is being appealed the decision en banc , meaning that the ruling has been vacated and a larger panel of active DC Circuit judges will reconsider the case on its merits in December. The en banc decision is expected to uphold the subsidies. Why is this case such a big deal? In Obamacare's first year, 36 states defaulted to Healthcare.gov, the federally-coordinated exchange. An estimated 87 percent of individuals who enrolled through the website are receiving subsidies the precise subsidies that this court case calls into question. Without subsidies, private insurance become unaffordable for many people who have already enrolled. The judicial process is still playing out, but according to recent analysis from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this decision could affect over 7.3 million people expected to receive federal subsidies in 2016. If the plaintiffs prevail and subsidies are withdrawn, healthy people would drop their coverage, and only the people who are very sick and therefore very expensive to insure would keep their plans. This sets up the classic insurance "death spiral". By putting coverage out of financial reach for so many people, it would undermine the entire purpose of the Affordable Care Act. What's the argument against subsidies on Healthcare.gov? The Affordable Care Act provided for the creation of different types of insurance exchanges . Fourteen states and DC established "state-based" exchanges, which give them more flexibility and authority in controlling their Obamacare markets. In the event that a state chose not to establish its own exchange, the Affordable Care Act dictates that the federal government would step in and create a "federally-facilitated" exchange. There's also a middle ground for partnership exchanges, where states and feds share authority. Healthcare.gov is the face of federally-facilitated and partnership exchanges. These different types of exchanges were set up by different parts of the health law. But the part of the Affordable Care Act that calculates the subsidies specifies that those subsidies are available to people "enrolled in through an Exchange established by the State under 1311" the section that sets up state-based exchanges. It does not reference section 1321, which sets up the federal and partnership marketplaces. Because it's written that way, the plaintiffs argue that subsidies are only available in the 14 states that established their own exchanges. Why would the law prohibit states from getting subsidies unless they set up their own exchange? To be clear, the administration is arguing that the law doesn't do this at all. But the plaintiffs claim that the subsidies in addition to making insurance more affordable for millions of Americans were supposed to function as a carrot, encouraging states to set up their own exchanges. If a state set up its own exchange, its citizens would receive subsidies. If the state didn't, its citizens wouldn't. According to the plaintiffs' telling, this was a political decision to win over moderate Democrats opposed to federal control of insurance marketplaces. What's the government's defense? The government's first line of defense hinges heavily on a single word. Word choice carries a lot of weight in legal interpretation. The part of the Affordable Care Act that creates federally-facilitated exchanges says that when a state doesn't set up its own marketplace, the federal government "shall establish and operate such exchange". According to the administration, the word "such" implies that federal exchanges effectively step into the shoes of state exchanges. But their defense doesn't end there. The government argues that if it isn't obvious that the law intends federally-facilitated exchanges be functionally equivalent to state exchanges, then the law is at least ambiguous on the point. You can't examine the part of the statute that sets up federally-facilitated exchanges in isolation, the government says; you have to look at it in the broader context of the reform law. Since affordable coverage is a core tenet of the law, to say that people in state and federal exchanges aren't equally entitled to tax credits would set the law at war with itself . In the government's view, that could be enough to call it ambiguous on its face. There are cues within the text of the law that suggest Congress might not have been precise in the words that it chose. In oral arguments for King, the government pointed to a line stipulating that only people who "resid[e] in the State that established the Exchange" can buy insurance. Read literally, the government argued, that would mean no one could buy insurance on federally-established exchanges the marketplaces would exist, but would have no legal customers, an absurd proposition. Ergo, it's possible that Congress used phrases like "established by the State" when they meant exchanges more generally. When a law is ambiguous, the courts defer to the interpretation of the agency responsible for implementation. And implementation has proceeded under agency assumptions that subsidies are authorized on both federally-run and state-based exchanges. What do we actually know about what Congress intended? Early bills that eventually became the Affordable Care Act were conflicted about whether exchanges should be coordinated at the state or federal level the House bill called for a national marketplace, the Senate bill for state exchanges. But few legal scholars or health reform spectators lend credence to the claim that Congress intended to tie subsidies exclusively to state exchanges in the final legislation. "No sentient being following the health care debate could argue, in good faith, that Obamacare's architects intended for the federal government to set up exchanges without subsidies," wrote Jonathan Cohn in 2012. "It would completely subvert the law's intent." A small but dedicated corps of journalists covered the minutiae of the health reform debate as Congress hashed out the details. "Congress battled over how generous the tax credits ought to be. There was a vicious argument over whether they would cover abortions," wrote Vox 's Sarah Kliff in July. "But Congress never debated whether they would limit the subsidies to states that built their own exchanges." Compare this to the Medicaid expansion: as the Affordable Care Act was originally written, states needed to expand the program or forfeit all federal Medicaid funding. This incensed conservative states. It incensed them so much that they brought a lawsuit against the federal government, claiming that expansion requirements were coercive a lawsuit they won. But none of the states made noises suggesting that the law coerced them into building their own exchanges. "There was not a breath during the legislative debate suggesting that Congress meant to deprive citizens in states with federally-facilitated exchanges of tax credits," said Bagley, the law professor. Is this really an argument over a drafting error? This case keys in on what appears to many outside observers to have been poorly-crafted legislative language. Thinking about this as a "typo" isn't quite accurate. Insofar as people believe it's a drafting error, it's conceptualized more as a matter of sloppy drafting: the final version of the Affordable Care Act was a messy marriage of two Senate bills. When Senator Ted Kennedy died in 2009 and was replaced by Republican Senator Scott Brown, Democrats no longer had a filibuster-proof majority in the Senate. So the law was passed through an unorthodox budgetary process . As a result it never went to conference committee, where messy drafting gets cleaned up. As a result, the text of the law may be less precise than statutory language usually is. There is evidence elsewhere in the law that Congress was not careful in differentiating between "exchanges established by the state" and exchanges more generally. Yet, even though this is what many people who followed the legislation think happened, neither side is asserting that there is a "mistake" in the way the law was written. The government might be hesitant to argue that this lawsuit is premised on an error in how the law was drafted because it's possible that the court would hold the government to the text of the law even if that text is flawed and contrary to Congress's original intent so, framing it as an "error" could result in losing the suit. Two legal scholars widely acknowledged to be the architects of the lawsuit initially described this as a " glitch " in the law's text. They have since revised their opinion, asserting that subsequent research uncovered legislative history that provides evidence that this was what Congress planned to do. What should we expect if the Supreme Court strikes down subsidies on federally-run exchanges? The Supreme Court will hear the case Wednesday, and we expect a ruling in late June. Until then, subsidies will continue to flow as normal. It's anyone's guess how the high court will rule but if it strikes down subsidies on the federally-run exchanges, the IRS will have to rapidly issue guidance and cease disbursement of subsidies in affected states. However, people would not owe back the financial assistance that they had received up to that point. Without subsidies in federally-run exchanges, premiums would become unaffordable for millions of families, and many would probably drop coverage. Generally speaking, they would not face the individual mandate penalty because the law includes an exemption where the cheapest available coverage exceeds 8% household income. Some states would work rapidly to implement a state-based exchange, redeeming subsidies for their citizens. Congress, too, would likely consider options of whether to restore the financial support . Some Republican Senators say they have a plan to ensure that the tax subsidies don't disappear mid-year, but they have not provided details on how, exactly, that would work. Either way, it ' s hard to see Congress resolving this issue quickly , as Republicans will essentially be tasked with saving the exact law they've spent five years trying to repeal. Would all 36 states jump at the opportunity to preserve their residents' subsidies? Probably not. In at least one of the related court cases Indiana v. IRS the administration is being sued directly by a state. Another lawsuit, Pruitt v. Burwell , pits Oklahoma's attorney general against Obamacare on the same issue. Many of the states defaulting to federal exchanges are the same states that didn't expand Medicaid. The story could play out similarly here, with politics suffusing state decisions about whether or not to put effort into protecting Obamacare's subsidies. | 5 | 1,607 | news |
London is one of the most vibrant cities in the world there's great architecture, art, and history at every turn. But its size and scope can make it a challenge, especially for first-time visitors, and the strength of the pound also makes it a tough sell for tourists trying to save money. Here are a few things you absolutely must know before visiting the Big Smoke. DON'T: Take the Tube. Although the Tube can be convenient within central London, it's also quite expensive and has a complicated system of fares that depend on distance. Being underground is also not the best way to see the city you don't have an idea of which neighborhoods you're passing through or a sense of your bearings when you get out. And that goes double for taxis: they're so expensive that many locals never take them, and London traffic is unpredictable at best. INSTEAD: Take the bus. Unlike the tube, the bus has a flat fare: it costs £1.45 to ride anywhere, whether it's a short or long trip. London buses make announcements similar to the ones on the Tube, giving you a heads up about which stop is coming up next so you have time to make it to the exit. Taking the bus is also a great way to experience London above ground, especially if you can score a top-level seat in the front of the bus. DON'T: Have an expensive, traditional high tea. High tea is a truly British tradition, but too many tourists feel like they have to pay a lot of money for the experience. There are any number of places in London that will serve you delicious tea, cakes, and sandwiches, even if it's not under the name "high tea." What you don't want is to pay 40 pounds for the privilege of being hungry again in an hour. INSTEAD: Try a more modern take on teatime. Because high tea is so ubiquitous, some cafes and hotels are trying creative new takes on the tradition. The Mandarin Oriental offers two: One where a "tea master" chooses custom blends based on your personal preferences (great for people who want to learn more about tea), and a sake tea where multiple flavors and blends of sake stand in for teas at each course. DON'T: Stay in West London. Some of London's most famous hotels are in tony west London neighborhoods like Soho, Covent Garden, and Knightsbridge. These neighborhoods are beautiful, but they're also outrageously expensive, which is an even bigger deal if you're taking dollar or Euro exchange rates into account. They're also full of pricey bars and restaurants, overpriced shops, and worst of all other tourists. INSTEAD: Stay in East London. If you want to have a more local experience, consider staying in up-and-coming East London. The Ace Hotel opened its London outpost in the trendy Shoreditch neighborhood (the equivalent of Williamsburg in Brooklyn), while the new Hotel RE is a good bargain in the Bethnal Green area. Not only are the lodgings less expensive, but so are the restaurants and shops. DON'T: Think you can see everything in three days. If you're used to more compact European capitals like Paris and Dublin, London will feel absolutely huge in comparison. The city is quite spread out, and not all major attractions are close to each other (or, for that matter, convenient to get to). INSTEAD: Prioritize the things you most want to see. It's totally okay to not see everything in London. Decide what's most important to you: for example, if you're a history buff, then put the British Museum at the top of your list. Some attractions, like Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London, are famous for their long lines, so you'll need to take that into account as well don't assume you can zip in and out in half an hour. Overall, your trip will be happier and more successful if you focus on a couple of must-see sites and devote some time every day to just wandering around the city and exploring. DON'T: Go to Piccadilly Circus. Although Piccadilly Circus is a famous London location, that's all it is: a location. It's just a square, and one that's usually packed full of people. It's good to use as a meeting place, but that's about as much time as you should spend there. INSTEAD: Walk around Soho and Covent Garden. Piccadilly's central London location makes it a great starting point for a walk: You can go through the side streets of Soho, Covent Garden, and Chinatown. It's also close to many West End theaters, so it's a good opportunity to check out last-minute ticket sales. DON'T: Shop on Oxford Street. Oxford Street is one of the major shopping sites in London, but many of the chains there, like H&M, Topshop, and Zara, are brands that you could easily find back home or online. It's not worth braving the crowds just to buy something from one of these places. INSTEAD: Check out smaller markets. London has plenty of other great places where you can spend money. Boxpark Shoreditch, a pop-up mall in Shoreditch, has several small boutiques from local brands, as well as some outdoor seating and food stalls. Nearby Spitalfields Market also has good deals on clothes, jewelry, and household items made by local artists. DON'T: Buy tea from a tourist shop. Although those cute Union Jack-printed tins of tea sold in tourist shops are adorable, you're paying for the cute tin, not for the tea inside of it. Most shops assume that tourists won't care about the tea, so it's low quality and hasn't been stored properly. If you just want the decorative tins, go ahead and snap them up, but the tea will likely be better off in the trash than in a mug. INSTEAD: Get the real thing at Fortnum & Mason or a smaller boutique. The Brits love their tea, and you can definitely pick up some quality blends while you're in town. Fortnum and Mason is probably the most popular tea mecca, and it's great for traditional blends like English Breakfast and Earl Grey. If you're feeling more adventurous, Postcard Teas (pictured) in the Marylebone neighborhood has a small but well-curated collection of teas from around the world. DON'T: Pay for special exhibits at Tate Modern or V&A. One thing that the Brits get right is their belief that museums should be free to visit. However, some museums, like the Tate Modern or the Victoria & Albert (V&A), sometimes have special limited-edition exhibits that cost a fee to visit. Unless it's your all-time favorite artist, skip it. INSTEAD: Visit one of London's free museums. There's enough great free art on view in London that your love of beautiful things will be well-satisfied without paying a cent. The permanent collections at the Tate Modern, the Tate Britain, the V&A, and the National Portrait Gallery are all excellent. Definitely drop some change into the boxes at your favorite museums consider it paying it forward for your next visit. DON'T: Mistake airport convenience for closeness. Although London has an impressive five airports serving the area Heathrow, Gatwick, London City, Stansted, and Luton they're all some distance from the city center and will take a while to get to. INSTEAD: Give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport. London makes it pretty convenient to get to the airports, but that doesn't mean your trip will be quick. Heathrow is the closest of the bunch, but you should give yourself at least one full hour to get there via public transit, if not more. For the other airports, give yourself two you often have to switch from a bus to a train or take a very long Tube ride. Take cabs only as an absolute last resort, as the cost will be outrageous. DON'T: Get mad that it isn't America. Many American tourists choose London as their first international destination due to the language and its accessibility. However, just because Great Britain and the U.S. are similar in many ways, they're also extremely different. Fans of British pop culture may think that they know a lot about the country because they watch Downton Abbey, but it's best to go in with an open mind. INSTEAD: Let London be London. Treat London just like any other place where you'd go to soak up the local color. Yes, Londoners speak English, but they also have their own local rules, customs, and quirks. It's bad travel manners to point out how hilarious it is that Brits say "lift" instead of "elevator" or to comment on people's accents and how hard they are to understand after all, they might find yours just as difficult. You didn't come so far to pretend that you're at home; take in the culture, figure out which coins are which, try a food you've never heard of before, and make some new friends down at the pub. | 2 | 1,608 | travel |
One of our favorite uses for fall's plethora of beautiful hard-skinned squash varieties is a warming, restorative bowl of soup. Try it as the base for a silky puréed vegetable soup, or use it to add heft and sweetness to a hearty stew laden with spicy sausage and beans. Here, 7 great recipes to make this season. Recipes squash Pumpkin soups & stews Dominican Cream of Pumpkin Soup (Crema de Auyama) In the colonial district of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, the Casas del XVI hotel surrounds visitors with quiet opulence and refined service. If you're lucky enough to arrive in time for lunch, you may be treated to chef Henry Horne's rosemary-accented crema de auyama Dominican cream of pumpkin soup served in the shady solitude of the courtyard. Silky-smooth and studded with cubes of queso de freir, a firm white local cheese, it makes a rich first course or a simple, satisfying meal all on its own. See the recipe for Dominican Cream of Pumpkin Soup (Crema de Auyama) » See more: Soup recipes Shorabit Jarjir (Red Lentil and Squash Soup) Protein-rich red lentils and hearty butternut squash are transformed into a smooth, fragrant soup that's a perfect, simple meal served with flatbread. See the recipe for Shorabit Jarjir » See more: Lentil recipes Pear, Shallot, and Delicata Squash Soup Pear and autumn squash take on savory depth in this elegant soup, brightened by a splash of vinegar and a drizzle of maple syrup. See the recipe for Pear, Shallot, and Delicata Squash Soup » See more: Pear recipes Winter Squash and Apple Soup A garnish of fried mushrooms and a drizzle of spiced mint butter adds elegance to a simple pureed vegetable soup. See the recipe for Winter Squash and Apple Soup » See more: Apple recipes Caribbean Pumpkin Soup Use any leftover roasted or sautéed squash (butternut or pumpkin are perfect) to make this creamy spiced soup. The cooking time will be much shorter than starting with raw squash. Just make sure the ingredients have enough time to cook together for their flavors to meld. See the recipe for Caribbean Pumpkin Soup See more: Caribbean recipes Light Mussel and Pumpkin Soup Don't try to make this elegant soup with Halloween pumpkins. Instead, try kabocha squash, or Cinderella or cheese pumpkins, often available in autumn at farm stands and specialty markets. See the recipe for Light Mussel and Pumpkin Soup » See more: Recipes for mussels Soup Joumou This savory pumpkin soup is served in Haiti on January 1, the anniversary of Haiti's liberation from France. It is said that the soup was once a delicacy reserved for white masters but forbidden to the slaves who cooked it. After Independence, Haitians took to eating it to celebrate the world's first and only successful slave revolution resulting in an independent nation. See the recipe for Soup Joumou » See more: Haitian recipes Pumpkin Soup with Sage Fried sage leaves and shallots, halved and cooked until tender and golden, garnish a simple puréed pumpkin soup. See the recipe for Pumpkin Soup with Sage » See more: Recipes with sage | 0 | 1,609 | foodanddrink |
Photo via Giant Birdsnest Baby birds: nature's freeloaders. Right at this moment, thousands of baby birds out there have their little beaks open, begging for a regurgitated meal, just so they can get big and strong enough to take that first leap into the wide world, as if it's a big deal or a metaphor for growing up or something. It's enough to make you want to drop $3K to $10K on OGE Creative Group's Giant Birdsnest, a "sofa" whose name says it all, just to try out such a luxurious existence. Or, maybe it's not enough. But for those who desire just this kind of committed kitsch or cross-species infantilization from their furniture, OGE has all kinds of customization options. Here's what it looks like with pillows in off-white (eggshell?): Photo via Giant Birdsnest And in case you want to know what they look like in fancy apartments, the firm has some renderings for you: Photo via Giant Birdsnest Photo via Giant Birdsnest Remember: You are the only one who hatched. The future is in your hands. · Giant Birdsnest, A Cozy Wooden Nest Designed For Humans Filled With Large Soft Egg Pillows [Laughing Squid] | 4 | 1,610 | lifestyle |
In two weeks, my boyfriend and I will be shipping off to Shanghai for the first leg of a year-long, 16-country tour of Asia. We're bringing one carry-on each. Most of the places we are visiting will be hot at times insufferably so. This helps when it comes to packing light. Still, we've put a ton of thought into our bags and what's inside them. Since we're both in our early 30s, we don't want to look like we've been sharing hostel bunks with a bunch of dreadlocked gap year kids on vision quests. So what the heck are we packing? Read on to find out. The Bag It's hard not to look like a backpacker when you're traveling the world with you know a backpack. After trying on 20-plus styles at REI and EMS, we reluctantly settled on the two Osprey models we deemed the least aesthetically offensive. The problem with these packs, however, is that they're designed for hikers not travelers. Unhappy with our purchases, we returned the bags and continued our research online. That's when I discovered the Minaal , a handsome 35-liter backpack with convenient zip-away straps and side-loading capabilities. My boyfriend went a similar route, buying a 45-liter Tortuga . The Bag, Part II I like that the Minaal includes a separate compartment for laptops, Kindles, passports, cell phones, and other gear. Everything is easy to access, especially when you're in a hurry, say, passing through airport security. The biggest drawback is the bag's lack of a serious waist belt, as I discovered on a recent 13-day trip to Norway. I'd read warnings about shoulder pain online, but ultimately chose good looks over comfort (waist belts make anyone with any semblance of hips automatically look 40 pounds heavier). My boyfriend's Tortuga, by contrast, has a real waist belt sturdy and padded. Ask us again in a year, but I'm pretty sure he'll come out the victor in this equation. Clothes It's a good thing normcore is trendy right now, because that's how I'm dressing on this trip. I've chosen a basic color palette (blue, black, and gray) and shopped at basic stores: Gap (two pairs of jeans, a chambray shirt, a leather belt, a long-sleeve tee, a runner's hoodie), Uniqlo (two sleeveless tees, socks, and underwear), Everlane (four V-necks), Town Shop (two bras), and Lands' End (a swimsuit and coverup). For special occasions, I have a maxi dress from Anthropologie. The only punch of color comes from a scarf, which can be worn in the evenings to ward off chill or in the daytime to go temple hopping. How do I fit it all? Eagle Creek compression cubes , one of the best investments any traveler can make. Shoes Everyone has an opinion on what shoes to pack. But I decided that the most popular recommendations hiking boots, Tevas, Crocs, and flip-flops were either too heavy to lug around and/or hideously ugly. After much consideration, I decided to go with two pairs of Toms (basic black and blue); they're the only shoes I can walk all day in and still be comfortable. They're versatile, easy to launder, and keep your feet covered in more polluted areas. The only thing Toms can't do is handle rain, which is where the rubberized Chucks come in. Though heavier than I would like, I've been impressed by how cool and dry they keep my feet on rainy days. Makeup At home, I'm a makeup junkie. But for this trip, I'm going as close to all-natural as I can stand without wanting to punch a mirror. In the bag: Nars' Radiant Cream Compact Foundation and Translucent Light-Reflecting Setting Powder, pitch-black waterproof liner from Make Up For Ever's Aqua Eyes, one eyeshadow palette (Clinique's Neutral Territory 2), two mascaras (Benefit's They're Real! and Cover Girl's Clump Crusher by LashBlast), one concealer (Benefit's Stay Don't Stray), one luminizer (Benefit's Girl Meets Pearl), Smith's minted rose lip balm, M.A.C. lipstick in Russian Red, bobby pins and hair elastics ('cause, again, 100-degree heat), and roll-on Cleopatra perfume from Tocca. Toiletries Lots of usual suspects here, including contacts, glasses, deodorant, floss, tweezers, clippers, Aleve, Immodium, dry shampoo, earplugs, Q-tips, and sunscreen. Since tampons are harder to come by in some of the countries we'll be visiting, I switched to a Diva Cup . I also picked up a GoGirl "urination device" , which helps you pee while standing up (ideal for squat toilets and unsavory public bathrooms), as well as the ridiculously named Lady Anti Monkey Butt anti-friction powder , a satiny-smooth cornstarch and calamine blend that helps minimize chafing in sweaty climates. Alas, I was so embarrassed by the prospect of border control seeing Monkey Butt's goofy packaging, I transferred the pink powder to a clear plastic container. Jewelry They say that you should never pack anything you truly care about. I mostly agree, but on this trip I am making one exception: my double tear drop gold ring with tourmaline stones from Mociun . It was a gift and I love it and I never leave the house without it. The rest of my jewelry is pretty minimalist: a thin gold ring, a skinny hammered gold bracelet, and a simple hammered brass necklace, all from In God We Trust . It's just enough adornment not to feel naked but not so much bling that I make myself a target. Day Gear A great day bag is essential when traveling. This Cuyana leather tote is chic but not flashy, deep enough to hold all of my stuff but not so deep that I can never find anything, and made of supple, easy-to-roll-and-pack leather. Inside I keep a tube of MAC lipstick in Ruby Woo; a YSL Radiant powder compact; vintage sunglasses, coin purse, and wallet; a cute Japanese notebook, ideal for tracking daily spending and scribbling quick notes; a lightweight Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX 100 point-and-shoot ; and an F1 neon X-ray passport wallet , which holds my passport, boarding passes, proof-of-immunization card, extra 2x2 photos for visas on arrival, and receipts. Tech and Other Miscellany I have an iPhone 6, a MacBook Air, a Kindle (pre-loaded with guidebooks); Frends Ella earbuds ; a Bestek adapter/converter ; and a Belkin headphone splitter . On the random tip, there's a neon lock/key and luggage tag, Silk Undercover Bra Stash from Eagle Creek , and a Vapur collapsible water bottle . Not pictured (because my boyfriend has graciously agreed to schlep it all): an iPad; a Jackery Giant+ portable charger for keeping everything juiced up; a SteriPEN Adventurer water purifier ; a headlamp for the inevitable power outages; and, because he's a total coffee wonk, a Porlex mini stainless steel grinder and Aeropress coffee maker . Compared to him, I'm practically an ascetic. | 2 | 1,611 | travel |
Mercedes, perhaps an atypical exhibitor at the SEMA show, debuted four concept customizations of the Metris midsize van that will arrive in the U.S. in the fall of 2015. Though it will come as either a passenger or cargo van (after being disassembled, shipped here, and re-assembled thanks to the chicken tax), the company sees many custom applications. About that name - Bernie Glaser, vice president and managing director of Daimler Vans LLC, said they definitely saw the necessity of changing the name "Vito," as the van is sold in Europe, for the U.S. market. "Metris has an association with metropolitan," he said. They expect the van to sell well in metro markets. They sell about 26,000 Sprinters a year here. Glaser also said the name could evoke the "metric" system for some, but European Car editor-in-chief Mike Febbo quickly pointed out that "that really hasn't caught on here yet. But we're getting there, inch by inch." Fire Chief Concept: A Tribute To 9/11 Heroes - A spokesman for World Motorsports in Torrance, Calif., the company that developed the concept, noted that the badge/firefighter shield on the door is a subtle tribute to 9/11's fallen firefighters, noting the number who died in the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. The fire concept has a few cool things to note: It has massive batteries to power a chief's command center (which communicates with and controls all units deployed to a fire) and a system that stores breathing tanks and harnesses securely via clamps but keeps them easy to deploy upon arriving at a scene. The concept has much larger brakes than the standard van due to the extra weight. The van's siren was one of the big hits of the display. Of a neighboring display within earshot, a spokesman said, "BMW really loved it." Luxury Concept: Things looking up inside - The two-seat luxury transportation concept is not that far off from similar vans that whisk executives around some European cities. Some execs, it seems, don't want to stand out in the likes of an Audi A8 or BMW 7 Series. The vans let them remain anonymous in traffic while still enjoying luxury. Two cool items on the concept: The headliner is actually replaced in the passenger compartment with a sunroof-sized video screen. It can display blue skies (it's always blue skies for the 1 percent, right?), fireworks (think Vegas), or anything else. No word on a mirror option… DJ Concept: Printed in 3D - Though the Golf Concept is impressive with its wildly expandable storefront module that slides out the back, the DJ Concept may be the most on-point of the four. One side panel contains an enormous speaker array, and the DJ station rises out of the roof by more than three feet, creating a DJ stand with two video screens behind. Smoke effects and lasers are also part of the package. The flares on the wheel wells and elsewhere were printed by a Stratasys 3D Printer. Hartmut Feyhl, founder of Renntech, said the company owns its own printer, but it would have taken three months to print all the parts. Stratasys' own printer did the job in a matter of days. The DJ conept has 12 giant Optima gel batteries that can power a performance for more than four hours without the engine running. "It's Its Own Segment" - A message that Mercedes officials clearly want to send: Metris is in its own segment, larger than a Transit Connect but smaller than Sprinter, Ram Promaster or full-size Transits. They want to take advantage of the increasing popularity of these Euro-style vans. The Full M-B Tech Treatment - Glaser said that while powertrains for the U.S. are not decided yet (he polled media members, who almost unanimously voted for a diesel -- surprise), he said the Metris would have a full array of Mercedes safety and driver-assistance tech available, like lane-keep assistance and the automaker's new Crosswind Assist . | 9 | 1,612 | autos |
There has been a lot of concern over Tony Romo's back and whether he will play on Sunday. Cowboys head coach Jason Garrett says Romo is looking comfortable in practice. | 1 | 1,613 | sports |
Week 10 Rundown Week 10 Rundown Welcome to the Week 10 Rundown! Join our discussion on Twitter @JoelMBeall and follow along with our weekly NFL picks. With an exciting slate of games on this weekend's menu, let's preview the NFL offerings for Week 10 action: Kansas City Chiefs at Buffalo Bills Since taking over the starting reins, Kyle Orton is 3-1 with nine touchdowns against three picks. His arrival has also spurred the emergence of rookie wideout Sammy Watkins, racking up 393 yards in this span. Buffalo will need all the firepower it can get against a rejuvenated Kansas City club. Following a stumble out of the gate, the Chiefs have won five of their past six games, including commendable victories over New England and San Diego. This hot streak is largely attributed to the resistance, which is allowing the second-fewest points in the league. Prediction: Bills 17, Chiefs 14 Miami Dolphins at Detroit Lions The Dolphins have racked up an under-the-radar 5-3 mark, and Ryan Tannehill's efficiency (six touchdowns, one pick in the past three games) has been a catalyst for the Fins. Alas, as good as Tannehill has been, it's hard to envision that success continuing against a Detroit defense allowing a league-low 15.8 points per game. Throw in Lamar Miller's iffy health status and Tannehill's Motown visit could be a disaster. Prediction: Lions 23, Dolphins 20 Dallas Cowboys at Jacksonville Jaguars It doesn't matter if Brandon Weeden, a banged-up Tony Romo or Quincy Carter is under center for the Cowboys. Facing a Jacksonville front seven conceding 123.4 rushing yards per contest, Dallas' offense will be running early and often. The Jags haven't been the pushover that their record suggests. Unfortunately, as long as Blake Bortles' ball-security issues endure, Jacksonville will be fighting an uphill battle. Prediction: Cowboys 28, Jaguars 24 San Francisco 49ers at New Orleans Saints Reports of the Niners' downfall are premature. NaVorro Bowman and Aldon Smith are close to return and the team's second-half schedule is relatively manageable. Colin Kaepernick's inconsistency can be maddening, yet his dual-threat dexterity still brings a lot to the table. The Saints have won three of their past four, and going into the Big Easy is a nightmare for opponents. Nevertheless, anticipate emerging star Mark Ingram to struggle against San Francisco's tightfisted rush resistance, with Kaepernick going to town on New Orleans' vulnerable secondary. Prediction: 49ers 30, Saints 20 Tennessee Titans at Baltimore Ravens Despite their recent woes, the Ravens enter the second half of the season with a 5-4 mark. Moreover, all four defeats have come against teams with winning records. A Week 11 Bye offers a welcomed respite, and Baltimore's upcoming ventures would hardly be described as daunting, as the team leaves Maryland just three times. The secondary will be hurting with Jimmy Smith done for the season….but Zach Mettenberger, on the road? Sorry, Tennessee. Prediction: Ravens 33, Titans 10 Pittsburgh Steelers at New York Jets The Steelers are 2-2 on the road, and Big Ben's aerial pageantry will likely end against a Gang Green squad ranked sixth in total defense. Don't misconstrue this as endorsement for New York. After all, this is the Jets we're talking about. Rather, simply a warning that this won't be a walk in the park for Pittsburgh. Prediction: Steelers 20, Jets 14 Atlanta Falcons at Tampa Bay Buccaneers Why would the Bucs bench their supposed quarterback of the future for a 35-year-old journeyman in a lost season? My theory: Tampa wants to solidify a top-three draft standing, and McCown gives them the best chance to accomplish this task. Or should we sail fail. The Falcons are having a mess of a season themselves, but the Dirty Birds should roll in this one. Prediction: Falcons 34, Buccaneers 21 Denver Broncos at Oakland Raiders Derek Carr has progressed nicely through his rookie campaign, and the Denver defense has given up 16 touchdowns with only eight interceptions. That said, opposing arms have posted a 101.3 QB rating on the Raiders (fifth-highest in the league), and last I checked, the Broncos have a decent option at field general. This could be a bloodbath. Prediction: Broncos 42, Raiders 21 St. Louis Rams at Arizona Cardinals Flaunting conquests against the Seahawks and 49ers, the Rams are not to be taken lightly. This is especially true in regards to the St. Louis secondary, one of the toughest units in the conference. Arizona's own defense should carry the team to a victory in the desert, but Carson Palmer seems due for a bad outing, one that could submarine the Cards' hopes. Prediction: Cardinals 21, Rams 20 New York Giants at Seattle Seahawks The Hawks' display would not be described as aesthetically pleasing, and I'm sure many expected a bigger score disparity against the winless Raiders. But a win's a win, and Oakland has played other contenders like New England and Arizona close this year. Unless someone personally states their discontent, I'm not putting any value into reports of locker room discord. Besides, these issues allegedly existed last season too. Didn't seem to hamper the execution of that group. Prediction: Seahawks 24, Giants 13 Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers I keep hearing the Bears possess a dynamic, high-octane offense. You would think such a vaunted attack would do more damage to the scoreboard than 22.5 points per game (18th in the league). While they might have that capacity, I'm prone to clubs that put such potential into practice. Like, you know, the Packers. Prediction: Packers 30, Bears 23 Carolina Panthers at Philadelphia Eagles In their last three games, Carolina has scored 17, 9, and 10 points, respectively, and the team hasn't won since October 5. Yet, in the NFL, it's hard to be consistently bad (please save your Jets jokes). Maybe its intuition, but I think the Carolina offense awakens from its slumber. Prediction: Panthers 27, Eagles 21 | 1 | 1,614 | sports |
Josh Gordon will be returning from his suspension in Week 12, but the Browns GM said they won't change the offense for Gordon. Should Gordon have to earn his spot in the offense? | 1 | 1,615 | sports |
Anne Hathaway, Dakota Fanning, and Florence Welch all get an F on this week's Fashion Offenders hosted by Wonderwall's Kirby Kristen. | 6 | 1,616 | entertainment |
Ohio State vs Michigan State is a must watch game for any Big Ten fans out there. Our guys let you know what other games to keep an eye on in the Big Ten. | 1 | 1,617 | sports |
Fortunately, going over the river and through the woods to grandmother's house for the holidays should cost less for those traveling by car this year. At $2.99 per gallon, the national average price of regular gasoline is 28 cents lower than the price per gallon a year ago, according to AAA. So if your car's tank holds 15 gallons, you'll save about $4 every time you fill up. The savings are magnified if you're traveling long distances during the holidays. There are several steps you can take to save on a road trip. Here's how to trim expenses even more on gas and keep the cost of meals, lodging and entertainment for the kids under control. Prepare your car before you go. Your wallet will thank you if you make sure your tires are properly inflated before you hit the road. Every pound per square inch under the manufacturer's recommendation for all four tires lowers your gas mileage by 0.3% -- which means more stops at the gas station. Also, remove anything from your car that you don't need for your trip and don't pack more than necessary just because you have room. Otherwise, your fuel economy will suffer by 2% per 100 extra pounds you load into your car. Find the cheapest gas on the road. The free GasBuddy app helps you find the lowest gas prices near you. You can search by zip code or city. Also, don't fill up with pricier premium-grade gasoline if your car's owner manual says regular is fine. Use a gas rewards card. If you don't already have one, consider getting a gas rewards credit card to earn cash back on gas purchases. One of our favorites is the PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa , which gives you five points for every dollar spent on gas. You can redeem points for travel, merchandise, gift cards or prepaid cards. (Anyone can join the PenFed Credit Union by contributing a one-time $14 fee to Voices for America's Troops or $15 fee to the National Military Family Association.) Avoid traffic back-ups. Use the free Waze app to get real-time traffic and road information from its community of users. Drive with the app open, and you'll be notified if you need to alter you route to avoid back-ups -- so you don't waste time and gas sitting in traffic. If you do come to a standstill because of an accident or construction, turn off your car. Idling can drain your tank by a quarter- to a half-gallon of fuel per hour, depending on the size of your engine and use of air conditioning, according to Fueleconomy.gov, a Web site run by the U.S. Department of Energy. Eat cheap. The best way to save money on food (and avoid time-consuming stops) is to pack sandwiches, snacks and drinks in a cooler. To make it fun for kids, you can buy a few trinkets at the dollar store and put them in bags along with their food to replicate kids meals from fast food restaurants. If you'd rather keep crumbs out of your car, buy discounted gift cards to your favorite fast food joints before you hit the road. We recently found a $50 Subway gift card on Gift Card Granny for $44.50 -- an instant $5.50 savings. Get a deal on lodging. If you know you're going to need a hotel room during your trip, you're more likely to get a better rate by booking at least two weeks in advance because many chains offer discounted rates for advance booking (see How to Get the Best Deal on a Hotel . Sites such as GetaRoom.com , Hipmunk.com , Hotels.com and Priceline.com make it easy to compare prices. If you have to make an unexpected stop along the way, use the free Last Minute Travel app or the Priceline Negotiator app to get a deal on a room. Keep the kids entertained. There's nothing worse than listening to your kids ask "Are we there yet?" hour after hour. Keep boredom at bay by checking out books or DVDs for the car ride from the public library for free. If your kids have a tablet or smart phone, use your home Wi-Fi to download free games before you go so don't have to use up your (pricey) data plan to download apps on the road. Copyright 2014 The Kiplinger Washington Editors | 2 | 1,618 | travel |
Little dog dressed like a Pilgrim on Thanksgiving day! | 8 | 1,619 | video |
Car fans will now have a reason to play with Legos again ( as if we ever stopped ). The Danish toy maker just announced its Speed Champions series for 2015, which will feature cars from Ferrari, Porsche, and McLaren. The cars in the series are made to Lego man scale, and aren't quite as detailed as some other licensed Lego cars we've seen. Still, they feature the official logos and likenesses (if you squint). Seven sets will be available beginning in Spring 2015, including such cars as the Porsche 911 RSR, 911 GT3 R Hybrid, Ferrari F14 T F1 racer, LaFerrari, and McLaren Mercedes MP4-29 F1 car, which will come with its own pit stop playset. Lego hasn't officially released any info or images of the others in the series, but leaked photos reveal a McLaren P1, Porsche 918 Spyder, and Ferrari 458 Italia GT2 are also planned. The figures that come with the cars wear matching racing suits, and the playsets feature flags, tools, trophies, and other items commonly found on race day. This won't be the first time Lego has released automaker-licensed toys. Previously, Lego partnered with Mercedes for a 2048-piece Unimog , and with Mini for a 1077-piece classic Cooper . The cars in the Speed Champions series look decidedly less complicated than those, but then again less build time translates to more play time. Source: Lego | 9 | 1,620 | autos |
Does prenatal exposure to air pollution increase a child's risk for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder | 7 | 1,621 | health |
Toddler Elizabeth Christensen can do some pretty incredible things. Watch her give us an anatomy lesson. | 8 | 1,622 | video |
10 reasons the Jags will make the playoffs next season Blake Bortles will only get better Yes, Bortles is a rookie. And yes, Bortles is going to make some mistakes that leave you scratching your head, but this kid can play. There is a reason he was the third overall pick in the 2014 draft. Give him some time and you will see him racking up the victories next season. The Jags have finally found their running back The running game was a disaster for the first six games of this season and the Jaguars couldn't figure out who they wanted to be their primary running back. The last few weeks however Robinson has shown the ability to be productive. Robinson should only get better as he learns the position. Don't forget this man was a quarterback in college. The wide receivers are young and athletic Now that this wide receiving corps will have a chance to acclimate to Bortles, they should be on the rise. The receivers have dealt with a lot this season with injuries and suspensions. Next year the talent will be off the charts with Lee, Hurns, Shorts and hopefully Blackmon. The schedule is in their favor Since the Jags will finish with a poor record this year, they will have an easier schedule next year. Not to mention they get the Raiders, Jets, Tampa Bay, and Titans twice just to name a few. I am seeing some potential wins on that schedule. Gus Bradley knows how to win With another full season to implement his system, there will be a lot of improvement on both sided of the ball. Let's also not forget this man was Defensive Coordinator of the best defense in the league just two years ago with the Seahawks. This man can coach. The youth movement will learn how to win The Jaguars start more rookies on offense than any other team in the NFL. A lot of them were from successful collegiate programs but the step up to the NFL level is enormous. Winning is simply a process and this team doesn't know how to do it...Yet. They're time will come. Sen'Derrick Marks is playing at a Pro Bowl level Marks has already matched his sack total from last season. He is becoming an elite defensive end in this league and someone who will require a double team which will open things up for everyone next season. The value of being overlooked every week While this is not something you probably want as a franchise, it does come in handy. Every week, the Jags will play the underdog role. And with that, means you may not get the opposing teams' best effort. Teams will have the tendency to overlook the Jags. Could be a big mistake. Jags defense is not that bad Does the Jags defense have holes? Absolutely, but name one NFL team that doesn't. This defense is very young and has a real chance to establish themselves in the offseason. They have shown glimpses this year and will begin to put it all together next. The Draft With a losing record comes a great draft pick. The Jags will in all likelihood add another top 5 pick to this roster. The team is filled with them. It is only a matter of time before all this talent starts reaching its peak and the Jags are back in the playoffs where they belong. Jaguars Bengals Football Jacksonville Jaguars running back Denard Robinson dives into the end zone for a touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the second half of an NFL football game in Cincinnati, Sunday, Nov. 2, 2014. (AP Photo/AJ Mast) | 1 | 1,623 | sports |
Keira Knightley is best known for playing whip-smart leading ladies in period pieces, and it turns out she is just as quotable as the famous characters she inhabits on screen. On the Problem With the Film Industry "The people who make movies, whether it's directors or producers or money people, look for things that they can identify with, and if they're all predominantly middle-aged white men, then what you see are things that middle-aged white men can identify with. And you don't get anything for anybody else." - The Edit, December 2014 On Being a Feminist "I remember doing interviews, and people would ask, as if it was a joke, 'So you mean you are a feminist?' As though feminism couldn't be discussed unless we were making fun of it. I don't want to deny my femininity. But would I want to be a stay-at-home mother? No. On the other hand, you should be allowed to do that, as should men, without being sneered at." - Vogue, September 2012 On the Trouble With Nudity "I've turned a lot [of roles] down because of it, mostly because of really overt sex and violence that is just, in my view, not justified. I'm not saying that there can't be really interesting stories about sex and violence, but a lot of it I just think, 'This is gratuitous for the sake of being gratuitous, and you'd never ask a dude to do this.' It's actually a difficult question: how much flesh are you meant to bare? What are we saying is appropriate or not appropriate? We're saying that we should be sexually liberated but then again not that sexually liberated. It's confusing." - The Edit, December 2014 On Not Wanting to Play the Hero "I think a lot of people want to play heroic characters, and that's it. But I don't find that very compelling. It's far more interesting to think about characters whose actions don't always make sense. The fact is, the opposite is always alive in every decision. And if you look at your own life, and the way you've behaved and thought, it won't always make sense either." - Vogue, September 2012 On Going Topless "I've had my body manipulated so many different times for so many different reasons, whether it's paparazzi photographers or for film posters. [The topless Interview shoot] was one of the ones where I said: 'OK, I'm fine doing the topless shot so long as you don't make them any bigger or retouch.' Because it does feel important to say it really doesn't matter what shape you are. I think women's bodies are a battleground, and photography is partly to blame. Our society is so photographic now, it becomes more difficult to see all of those different varieties of shape." - The Times, November 2014 On Faking Emotions "I don't think that you can fake warmth. You can fake lust, jealousy, anger; those are all quite easy. But actual, genuine warmth? I don't think you can fake it." - Rotten Tomatoes, June 2008 On Not Believing in Fairy Tales "I left [fairy tales] behind. Why should you be told to wait for some f*cking dude to rescue you?" - The Edit, December 2014 On Why She Is in So Many Period Pieces "I do get a lot of contemporary stuff; I just find it's very difficult to find good female roles in contemporary pieces. I don't know why that is. I find more interesting roles for women in period pieces." - Rotten Tomatoes, June 2008 On Getting Photoshopped "The anorexic stuff - all of that - it's always going to have an impact, so I think it did hit pretty hard. I knew I wasn't anorexic, but maybe my body is somehow not right. They always pencil in my boobs. For a King Arthur poster, they gave me these really strange droopy tits. . . . I thought, 'Well if you're going to make me fantasy breasts, at least make perky breasts.'" - Allure, December 2012 On the Appeal of Mr. Darcy "I think every girl is looking for her Mr. Darcy. I'd go for someone who is a little bit brooding and somebody you can have a good conversation with, a good fight with, someone who'll always keep you guessing and make you laugh." - The Telegraph, September 2005 On How She Defines Success "I'm not sure I can define success. I think if I get to the end of my life having hurt as few people as possible, I will be happy, making sure that the people who mean the most to me know they've been loved. Success in work, whatever work, will come and go." - Marie Claire, February 2013 On Raising Girls "A friend of mine just had a daughter. It's a political thing, having a baby girl, in a way that it isn't for a boy. You think, 'Oh, isn't this fairy-tale lovely?' Then suddenly you worry, 'What [expectation] am I planting with that? I don't want her to be waiting around for a man to fix her problems.' Maybe it's a bit silly, but because [gender] equality is going so hugely the other way, I think it probably does take being silly to try and swing it back round." - The Edit, December 2014 | 6 | 1,624 | entertainment |
No movie is a good date movie. Let's just get that out of the way. Unless you're well into a relationship, sitting in a darkened room with someone else for two hours will in no way help you get to know one another (other than whether or not one of you is a heavy breather). But, there are bad date movies, and there are really bad date movies. Taking someone to see Gone Girl for instance, would be a really bad date. When David Fincher's gripping crime thriller was released last month, it was universally hailed as a bad date movie (unless caveat you "dream of destroying one another"). Its depiction of both sexes was unflattering. Its take on marriage was cynical. Its central sex scene was blood-soaked. Even Gone Girl author Gillian Flynn joked that the movie would "break up couples nationwide." The number of actual breakups Gone Girl has been responsible for remains to be seen. But, whether or you're well into a relationship or about to embark on one, this is a film best viewed without a romantic interest. And, because we want you to be happy, here are 30 more movies you should never see on a date. Photo: Courtesy of Columbia Pictures. No movie is a good date movie. Let's just get that out of the way. Unless you're well into a relationship, sitting in a darkened room with someone else for two hours will in no way help you get to know one another (other than whether or not one of you is a heavy breather). But, there are bad date movies, and there are really bad date movies. Taking someone to see Gone Girl for instance, would be a really bad date. When David Fincher's gripping crime thriller was released last month, it was universally hailed as a bad date movie (unless caveat you "dream of destroying one another"). Its depiction of both sexes was unflattering. Its take on marriage was cynical. Its central sex scene was blood-soaked. Even Gone Girl author Gillian Flynn joked that the movie would "break up couples nationwide."The number of actual breakups Gone Girl has been responsible for remains to be seen. But, whether or you're well into a relationship or about to embark on one, this is a film best viewed without a romantic interest. And, because we want you to be happy, here are 30 more movies you should never see on a date. Photo: Courtesy of Columbia Pictures. Closer "A first date spent watching a movie in which the moral of the story is 'everyone cheats' sounds like a great way to kick off a new relationship," said no one ever. Photo: Courtesy of Lions Gate Films. American Psycho This gruesome satire of '80s excess was billed as a comedy, but there's nothing funny about watching Christian Bale's charismatic serial killer butcher every living organism that crosses his path. If you hear so much as a snicker from your date, it's time to put a pin in it. Photo: Courtesy of Paramount Pictures. Fatal Attraction The consensus predecessor to Gone Girl. This lusty thriller is a perfect example of what happens when lust turns to love, turns to obsession. A cautionary tale for innocent crushes everywhere. Photo: Courtesy of De Laurentiis Entertainment Group. Blue VelvetDennis Hopper's horrific, gas mask-wearing sadomasochism is probably not a topic you want to introduce on a first date unless, of course, you're testing the waters before bringing up your own S&M fantasies. Photo: Courtesy of Columbia Pictures. Gigli This complete flop of a movie likely played a role in the demise of Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck a.k.a. Bennifer 1.0. If that's not a reason to not watch this on date night, check out its Wikipedia plot description. You cannot make this issh up. Photo: Courtesy of Universal Pictures. The Break-Up Watching a movie about a break-up before you two even have a chance to link up seems pretty counterintuitive, right? Photo: Courtesy of New Line Cinema. The NotebookYou and your S.O. will never be Noah and Allie. Watching this will only raise your expectations of your future together to an unattainable height. (Also, do you really want your new date to see you cry uncontrollably? We didn't think so.) Photo: Courtesy of The Weinstein Company. Blue Valentine Despite having "valentine" in the title, there is nothing romantic about this movie. In fact, this movie will break every romantic bone in your body and leave you jaded, cursing the lie that other Ryan Gosling movie sold you. Photo: Courtesy of Metro Goldwyn Mayer. 9 1/2 Weeks What The Notebook did to your romantic expectations, 9 1/2 Weeks will do to your sexual-fantasy expectations. Photo: Courtesy of Paramount Vintage. Like Crazy If you live all the way over here, and they live all the way over there, Drake Doremus' nuanced look at the pitfalls of long-distance relationships should be avoided at all costs. Photo: Courtesy of IFC Films. Antichrist Nothing screams no second date like spoiler alert! watching a wife mourning a dead son bash her husband's gonads in before clipping off her own genitals in an idyllic woodland retreat. Photo: Courtesy of Focus Features. Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind Despite its off-the-wall premise, Michel Gondry's fevered depiction of a romance-gone-bad might be the most honest relationship movie ever made. The gist: Things fall apart, and resistance is futile. Photo: Courtesy of Warner Independent Pictures. Funny Games Not even the power of love can stop two sadistic home invaders from wreaking havoc on a happily married couple in Michael Haneke's twisted assault on domestic bliss. By the time the final credits roll, the words "Till death do us part" will take on a whole new meaning. Photo: Courtesy of New Line Cinema. He's Just Not That Into You This sweet romantic comedy might be cute in the moment, but the second you say goodbye and get home, you'll be wondering whether or not that "had a blast tonight" text that never came meant your date passed out or they're just not that into you. Photo: Courtesy of United Artists. Annie Hall "Hello! My name is so-and-s,o and I'm really big into clichés! That said, let's go see the 70 mm print of Annie Hall, playing at the local repertory cinema, shall we?" Photo: Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics. In The Company Of Men Neil LaBute's pitch-black comedy is probably the most disturbing depiction of misguided male machismo ever captured on film. You'll start the the movie holding hands, and end it sitting five rows apart. Photo: Courtesy of Focus Features. Dallas Buyers Club This movie is fabulous. It's got great acting. The direction in spot-on. It won awards. And, there's a solid message of hope. These things, however, do not a first date movie make. Dallas Buyers Club will weigh you down with the feels the sensitive kind that's reserved for those intimate moments spent with someone you've known for longer than an hour or two. Photo: Courtesy of Momentum Pictures. ShameSuccessful New York executive has a confusing relationship with his manic sister, all while trying to deal with his sex addiction. Romance and comedy are two things this movie finds lacking. Nudity, on the other hand... Photo: Courtesy of Buena Vista Pictures. Kids Seeing Larry Clark's voyeuristic peek into life as a teenager in mid-'90s New York can accomplish one of two things. Either: "OMG, look how edgy and artistically inclined we are!" Or: "OMG, never ever touch me again!" Photo: Courtesy of Paramount Pictures. The Hours Stephen Daldry's adaptation of Michael Cunningham's novel of the same name is beautiful in every sense of the word. But, unless your date is down for an Oscar-sized helping of comfort cake afterward, choose something a little more...uplifting. Photo: Courtesy of Paramount Vintage. There Will Be Blood Yes, director Paul Thomas Anderson's smoke-black parable of capitalist America needs to be seen to be believed. Oh sure, Daniel Day-Lewis' portrayal of a maniacal oil baron is one for the ages. But, do the words "parable," "capitalist," "maniacal," or "milkshake!!!" scream first date? We think not. Except milkshake. Mmm... Photo: Courtesy of Columbia Pictures. Kramer vs. KramerThe sanctity of marriage is completely shattered in this searing portrait of a nasty divorce and the ensuing custody battle. Happily ever after? In your dreams. Photo: Courtesy of Buena Vista Pictures. What's Love Got To Do With It This loose adaptation of Tina Turner's real-life relationship with Ike Turner is a portrait of a marriage torn apart by jealousy, and jealousy has no place on a first date. Photo: Courtesy of Universal Pictures. Knocked Up Judd Apatow's tale of mismatched twentysomethings forced together by an accidental pregnancy will obliterate any desire you had for sex on the first date. Especially if there's booze involved. Photo: Courtesy of United Artists. Last Tango In Paris "Hey, so there's this really controversial European film starring Marlon Brando as a man with very unusual sexual tastes." "What do you mean?" "Let's just say he likes butter." Yeah, not a conversation you want to be having on a first date. Photo: Courtesy of Paramount Vintage. Revolutionary Road This is what happens when Jack & Rose are confronted with the harsh realities of marriage. Here, life together means dead-end jobs, crippling ennui, and an itch for a fresh start that may never be scratched. It will leave you and yours thinking: What's the point? Photo: Courtesy of Paramount Pictures. Rosemary's BabyHorror films are great first date movies! All those scared emotions have the capability to bring you closer to your date than dinner can. But, a story about birthing the spawn of Satan is not one of those hide-under-the-blanket-with-me kinds of movies. Photo: Courtesy of Artisan Entertainment. Requiem For A Dream After watching Darren Aronofsky's relentlessly visceral indictment of addiction, you won't even remember your own name, much less your potential paramour's. Photo: Courtesy of 20th Century Fox. Sleeping With The Enemy Julia Roberts movies are, for the most part, perfect date-night movies. Julia Roberts movies featuring boatloads of misogyny? Not so much. Photo: Courtesy of Fox Searchlight Pictures. (500) Days Of Summer If you're in the mood for some real meta viewing, just wait until the "Expectations vs. Reality" sequence. You'll be inserting yourself into that scene and doubting your real-life date in no time. | 4 | 1,625 | lifestyle |
Cooking season is heating up, but if your range isn't, try these tips from Consumer Reports' experts. They can help you keep your old or new range cooking and even looking good. Of course, if you need a new one before the holidays check out our range Ratings and recommendations. On the cooktop • Gently place heavy pans on electric smoothtop ranges to prevent breaking the cooktop. Lift pots, rather than sliding them, to avoid scratches. • Clean up smoothtop spills promptly to prevent stains, but wait until the surface has cooled and is safe to touch. • Don't cover a coil-top range's drip pans and bowls with foil; it can short-circuit the burner. • If a gas burner's flame is uneven, food could be clogging the burner ports. Consult your manual for cleaning advice. In the oven • Put away the foil. Lining the bottom of the oven to catch drips may permanently damage the interior finish and void the warranty. • Foiled again? Covering oven racks with foil blocks airflow, so food might not cook properly or evenly. • Check your manual for self-cleaning tips, but the usual advice you'll find says that you should remove racks from the oven before pushing the self-clean button. The process can discolor racks and make them harder to glide. Too late? Apply a coating of vegetable oil to the sides of racks to improve sliding. • Remove loose debris coating the oven cavity before starting the self-cleaning cycle. Budget-friendly ranges from our tests If your range has seen better days but you're on a tight budget as the holiday approaches, consider these four budget buys from our tests. They were good performers and have features that make cooking faster and cleanup easier. Electric smoothtops. These impressive smoothtop ranges performed similarly in our tests but were so-so at broiling. Samsung FE-R300SB, $550 Frigidaire FFEF3018LW, $600 Gas ranges. These two ranges were better overall than gas ranges that cost thousands more but were also mediocre at broilling. Frigidaire Gallery FGGF3032MW, $775 Kenmore 74132, $700 For more choices, see our full range Ratings and recommendations. And check our buying guide if you're new to the market. Kimberly Janeway Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2014 Consumers Union of U.S. | 4 | 1,626 | lifestyle |
When the weather outside is frightful, there is nothing more comforting than curing up beside a fireplace with a good book or a good friend. This is why it is important that this feature of your home be not only safe, but beautiful. Some common fireplace woes include maintenance issues that if left unattended can either burn a hole in your wallet or actually burn your house down. And because fireplaces are usually something that comes built with the house, you can inherit all sorts of design and safety problems that need addressing. Click through our gallery to shine a light on several common fireplace mistakes that you should avoid in your own home. Safety First It is important to have your fireplace properly inspected and cleaned by a pro before lighting for the first time each year. This will help to deter any hazards that could start a fire in your home, such as chimney blockage, weather deterioration, or invasive animal nests. It is also a great time to ask questions about how to safely use your fireplace. Mantels Matter If your fireplace has a mantel, it is important to pay attention to its shape and size in proportion to the fireplace and the rest of the room. Avoid oversized mantels that can dwarf the fireplace itself, but also steer clear of going too small, or it will look like a strange afterthought. Dated Designs Because most fireplaces were built when the house was, it may not match your personal style or the rest of your interior. If your fireplace looks a little dated, paint the mantle a neutral color to help it fade into the background or jazz it up with fresh, modern colors to give it a cutting edge look. Cut Down on Clutter Sure, fireplaces are cozy and charming, but they also can be dangerous. Avoid placing furniture, rugs, or knickknacks too close to a working fireplace. Keep the hearth clear of decor, firewood, and other household odds and ends. Ash Elimination Keep your firebox properly maintained and clean. Don't allow ash to accumulate, as it can diminish the air quality of your home. Sprinkle coffee grounds over the ashes before sweeping to reduce flyaways, and scrub the walls of the fireplace with hearth cleaner to reduce soot. Change the Channel Mounting a flat screen TV over a fireplace is a hot decorating trend but it comes at a cost. Hanging a TV too high prevents comfortable viewing from the couch, placing strain on the neck and back muscles. And putting it above the fireplace could also void the warranty on these products, which can burn a hole in your wallet. Don't Mess with Carbon Monoxide Carbon monoxide detectors are essential in any home, especially if you have a fireplace. These detectors help alert you of dangerous venting issues, or gas leaks. Install one detector in the same room as your fireplace, as well as one on every level of your house including the basement. Test the batteries monthly, and replace the detector every 5 to 10 years. | 4 | 1,627 | lifestyle |
If you're a woman who loves lifting at the gym, you face a set of struggles all your own. In this sketch, BuzzFeed gives a humorous take on the problems ladies who lift face. You know, like those pesky collarbone bruises from power cleans and the torture that is the day after "leg day." However, as the clip points out, what really matters is that "the perseverance you gain makes you mentally strong, and that strength gives you all the confidence you need." Lift on, ladies. | 7 | 1,628 | health |
Two turkeys taunt a little dog behind a sliding glass door. | 8 | 1,629 | video |
The cooler nights have got us aching for a cocktail that feels a little more like Autumn. Make the most of seasonal fruits and flavors by enjoying these 18 festive cocktails that'll help you embrace long nights and sweater weather. - Additional reporting by Anna Monette Roberts Cranberry Margarita Make the most of the short and sweet cranberry season with this twist on tradition: a cranberry margarita . Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Cranberry cocktails Fruity Champagne Cocktail Orange and lemon juices liven up this fruity Champagne cocktail . Garnish it with thin slices of crisp in-season apple. Photo: Anna Monette Roberts Browse: Champagne cocktails Cran-Limoncello Sparkler While this cran-limoncello sparkler can be enjoyed year round (as it's made with bottled cranberry juice), it seems most at home during Fall and Winter. Try it garnished with fresh cranberries while they're in season. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Limoncello cocktails Salty B*tch As long as it's not too cold in your part of the world, liqueur up to a Salty B*tch , a riff on the salty dog with grapefruit sorbet instead of juice. Photo: Anna Monette Roberts Browse: Grapefruit cocktails Ginger Sidecar A ginger sidecar combines ginger, brandy, and maple syrup for a sophisticated cocktail you can serve at holiday parties. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Ginger cocktails Butterbeer You've probably sipped on buttered rum before, but did you know you can make buttered beer? This Butterbeer recipe , inspired by Harry Potter, combines homemade butterscotch sauce and pumpkin beer for the ultimate Fall treat. Photo: Anna Monette Roberts Browse: Cocktails with beer Sage Sangria Sangria's not just for Summer! This Rosé sangria is garnished with Fall-appropriate sage leaves. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Sangria recipes Pumpkin Spice There's no better way to make use of nature's seasonal bounty than with a tasty cocktail. This refreshing pumpkin mojito has got you covered. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Spiced cocktails Euphoria Sage-spiked yet spritely, this gin- and St-Germain-based sour pays tribute to Thanksgiving's most iconic herb. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Gin cocktails Cranberry Martini Instead of garnishing a martini with olives, try marinating fresh cranberries in vermouth for a seasonal touch. Photo: Sarah Lipoff Browse: Martinis Bubbly Poinsettia Gin, pomegranate liqueur, maraschino liqueur, and Brut Rosé Champagne combine for a bubbly poinsettia cocktail that should be sipped slowly. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Cocktails with Rosé Gingery Salty Dog Make a salty dog a tad spicier with the addition of ginger syrup. Photo: Anna Monette Roberts Vieux Carré This classic whiskey- and cognac-based cocktail is tailor-made for sipping by the fireplace. Photo: Susannah Chen Browse: Cognac cocktails Jalapeño Paloma A jalapeño paloma amps up the standard grapefruit-tequila cocktail with slivers of jalapeño. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Tequila cocktails The Normandy The Normandy may be the ultimate Fall treat. Its sweet and tart flavors make it a perfect cocktail to ease the burden of bundling up for brisk weather. Photo: Susannah Chen Browse: Apple cocktails Gingersnap Cocktail Despite being inspired by cookies, this warming tipple is smooth and spicy, not overwhelmingly sweet. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Ginger cocktails Grapefruit-Elderflower Sparkler Mimosas have nothing on these grapefruit-elderflower sparklers . They are an elegant way to start a day party right. Photo: Anna Monette Roberts Apple Cidercar Another brandy cocktail worth investigating is an apple cidercar served up in a sugar-rimmed martini glass. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Other cidecar recipes | 0 | 1,630 | foodanddrink |
For a while it sounded like Quentin Tarantino may have given up on The Hateful Eight following a script leak, but the director is back on track with the new film. This week the cast for the post-Civil-War-era Western was announced, including the titular "Hateful Eight." Previous collaborators like Samuel L. Jackson and Tim Roth are starring, and Channing Tatum will have a small role in the movie, set for a Fall 2015 release. Take a look at the cast list to see who is returning to work with Tarantino and which newbies are saddling up! Samuel L. Jackson Frequent Tarantino collaborator Jackson will play Major Marquis Warren. Kurt Russell Russell will play someone by the intimidating name of John "The Hangman" Ruth. Jennifer Jason Leigh Leigh has joined as Daisy Domergue. Walton Goggins Goggins will take a break from Justified to star as Chris Mannix. Demian Bichir Bichir is set to play a nondescript character named Bob. Tim Roth Roth, who has worked with Tarantino before in Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction, will play Oswaldo Mobray. Bruce Dern Dern, who appeared in Django Unchained, will play General Sanford Smithers. Channing Tatum Newbie Tatum will have a small role in the film. Michael Madsen Reservoir Dogs' Madsen is reuniting with Tarantino to play Joe Gage. | 6 | 1,631 | entertainment |
Under-fire Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini insists he doesn't feel any external pressure after a difficult fortnight for his club. | 1 | 1,632 | sports |
Real Madrid boss Carlos Ancelotti says Lionel Messi is not a contender for the 2014 Ballon d'Or award. | 1 | 1,633 | sports |
Chrissy Teigen and John Legend share adorable photos from Barcelona on today's Celebs Gone Social, hosted by Wonderwall Editor Jessica Wedemeyer. | 6 | 1,634 | entertainment |
Shopper's Market: Travel editor shares tips | 2 | 1,635 | travel |
As a relative newcomer to Los Angeles, I frequently need navigational assistance. But the Passat Sport doesn't offer on-screen nav; it's available on the SE but not the Sport. That's unfortunate, because I like to see a map of where I am and where I'm headed at all times. Lucky for me my smartphone and the Waze app fill the void efficiently, albeit unattractively. I attach my iPhone to the left center stack air-conditioning vent by sliding it into my Kenu Airframe car mount ($24.95 at Amazon, and I highly recommend it), which clips onto the vent. Then I plug the phone into the 12V outlet located in the little storage compartment on the bottom of the center stack, using a cheap cord I bought at a drugstore, and connect it to a USB car charger, also a drugstore buy. Since my phone is synched to the car via Bluetooth, turn-by-turn nav directions from the Waze app are broadcast over the stereo speakers, and I can see the Waze map onscreen out of the corner of my right eye. It's at eye level, whereas the infotainment touchscreen is down and to my right, so if there were nav down there, I'd be diverting my eyes from the road. The setup isn't cute, though, with the cord dangling in front of the touchscreen and the stereo volume knob. Also, more than once I've left my phone in the car by accident. I could put the phone in its designated charging spot in the center console, but the provided cord is only 5 inches long, so the phone either has to be stored in the compartment or dangle awkwardly outside it. Either way, I can't see the Waze map. So, yeah, I wish nav were an option on the Sport. The Passat did come with six months of complimentary Car-Net access, which offers call-button destination assistance. A live person will send your destination directly to the nav system, but since ours doesn't have nav, I couldn't test it. Car-Net also has automatic crash notification if an airbag is deployed, and I can press the SOS emergency call button to reach VW's Emergency Response Center or the button with the wrench icon on it to summon roadside assistance. I am very happy with the Passat's Bluetooth cellphone mind-meld. It was super easy to link my phone to the infotainment system without needing to read the manual, and it's never once un-linked itself. I can make a call using the buttons on the right side of the steering wheel, easily toggling down to the contact I want to call, or I can tell the system to make a call using the voice recognition function. The sound quality is fine not crystal-clear, but sufficient, though to hear the person on the other end I do need to turn the volume up higher than I keep it when listening to music. Whenever I add a new contact to my phone contacts list, it updates immediately in the car, letting me know via a touchscreen message that a new contact is available. One random detail I really appreciate: The Passat has not one, not two, but three clocks. I can choose to see the time on the rectangular digital display screen between the rpm and mph dials, and it's clearly visible on the infotainment touchscreen. There's also an analog clock between the center a/c vents, like you'd see in luxury cars. My mom pronounced it "fancy." More on our long-term 2014 Volkswagen Passat Sport: Arrival Update 1: Getting Comfortable, With a Disabled Honk and a Secret Key Our Car Service life 6,048 mi Average fuel economy 0.73 lb/mi CO2 emissions 24/34/28 mpg EPA City/Hwy/Comb Fuel Econ 26.6 mpg Energy consumption 127 kW-hrs/100mi Unresolved problems None Maintenance cost $0 Normal-wear cost $0 | 9 | 1,636 | autos |
Every newborn photo shoot is adorable on its own, but add in one of these too-cute-for-words props, and it'll instantly be elevated to the next level. Whether Mom and Dad are major football fans or you're channeling a classic Disney movie, there's an accessory out there for everyone. Here are 25 of our very favorite prop ideas for your beautiful baby's first photo session - and they're all shoppable! Source: Etsy user MitziKnitz Isn't She Pretty in Pink? A stretchy ruffled wrap ($15) offers an extra layer of coverage for your baby girl's first photo shoot. Pair it with a full outfit, or just use it to cover her diaper and bare body. Take a Walk on the Dino Side Roar! This sweet little knit dino ($28) is perfect for welcoming your newborn and as a photo prop for announcing his or her arrival to the world. You can have the set customized in the colors of your choosing, and it's hand-crocheted. Under the Sea Fans of The Little Mermaid can get their baby into the movie from an early age with this Ariel-inspired ensemble ($45). Baby Bunny Ears Choose from taupe or gray bunny-ear hats ($32 each) for your bitty babe's first photos. Mini Moose A crocheted moose hat ($45) makes a perfect accent for a wintry shoot. Let Me Introduce Myself Have a custom baby-name banner ($15) created to add an element of personalization to your little one's first photo shoot. The Grass Is Always Greener . . . Go for an au naturel vibe with this supersoft, stretchy moss blanket ($35). Baby's sure to stay warm and cozy for the duration of the shoot. Simply the Softest Warm up in this wool-mohair blend ensemble ($70). It's custom-made to order. Tiny Little Turtle This baby turtle sports a soft shell, and at just $15, the price point can't be beat. Ahoy, Little Matey! Create a nautical environment for baby's first photo shoot with this pint-size wooden boat ($125). While the initial investment is a bit of a splurge, the boat will serve as a great decor piece in your baby's nursery long after your photo shoot is over. Swing Low, Sweetie Go for a green and organic look with this chunky knit hammock ($48). Hey, Little Pumpkin! For a seasonally appropriate prop, we're loving this little pumpkin set ($40). A coordinating orange hat and cocoon are adorable whether your shoot takes place in a pumpkin patch or the comfort of your own home. Dapper Gent This little guy is ready for his close-up! Can you handle the cuteness of this very grown-up bow tie, suspenders, cap, and diaper cover set ($87)? It's made from 100 percent cotton and is perfect for a baby boy's first photo shoot, or to make a lasting impression at his next special occasion. Snips and Snails . . . He may not be crawling anywhere quite yet, but this sweet snail set ($11-$13) will look great on your little guy or girl. Metamorphosis These couture butterfly wings ($23) come adorned with a golden flower that pops from the center of the wings, making them a really special photo prop for your sweetie's first pics. Headband sold separately. Baby Boy Football Hat This sweet knit football hat ($25) gets a touchdown in our book! Batter Up Etsy seller Mama's Lil Sugar Crochet will customize this newborn baseball hat ($26) for your home team. Fit For a King (or Queen) Your baby may not have a lengthy title like Prince George does, but every child deserves to be treated like royalty. This glitzy minicrown ($10) sets a regal tone. Touchdown! Athletically inclined parents (or just superfans) will love the look of a football hat ($23) in their team's favorite colors. Sweet Dreams No need to worry about what your baby's going to wear for the shoot. Here's an adorably distressed baby bed ($45) that makes a statement - clothing optional! All Girl! This ruffle bloomer and sweet flower headband ($15) make the cutest props for your sweet girl's first baby pictures. And it looks seriously adorable, even when your little cherub is snoozing through her first photo shoot. Prima Ballerina Your little ballerina will look lovely in this tutu and headband set ($45). With a touch of vintage elegance and seriously feminine style, it's a perfect set for birth announcement pics. Go Rustic A burlap and chunky knit blanket combo ($40) can be made to order in the color palette of your choice. A Shell For Your Peanut This cozy camel-colored knit sack ($35) is the perfect way to bundle up your baby. Baby Blues This gorgeous knit set ($54) is as cozy as can be. | 4 | 1,637 | lifestyle |
Pippa Middleton is reportedly in serious talks with NBC to join The Today Show as a correspondent -- a deal that could earn her a $500,000 pay package. | 6 | 1,638 | entertainment |
MUJI is an organizing trap. You walk in to buy just one ballpoint pen, and you emerge an hour later armed with 20 clear boxes and five brown-paper notebooks. It's a Type-A heaven on earth. With everything from simple slippers to streamlined coat racks, it makes sense this brand would next design a home for all its products. Now, MUJI has done just that with a three-story prefab home (Tokyo's "the Vertical House") that just won a Good Design award. Similar to a treehouse, this apartment's levels connect via open staircase, giving the illusion of more space. Intended for densely populated urban areas, it's a minimalist dream. Click through for all the photos and begin sending wishful thoughts to Japan that this home's next stop will be the States. Then, we can walk out of the store with a floor plan, too. MUJI is an organizing trap. You walk in to buy just one ballpoint pen, and you emerge an hour later armed with 20 clear boxes and five brown-paper notebooks. It's a Type-A heaven on earth. With everything from simple slippers to streamlined coat racks, it makes sense this brand would next design a home for all its products. Now, MUJI has done just that with a three-story prefab home (Tokyo's "the Vertical House") that just won a Good Design award. Similar to a treehouse, this apartment's levels connect via open staircase, giving the illusion of more space. Intended for densely populated urban areas, it's a minimalist dream. Click through for all the photos and begin sending wishful thoughts to Japan that this home's next stop will be the States. Then, we can walk out of the store with a floor plan, too. Photo: Courtesy of MUJI. Photo: Courtesy of MUJI. Photo: Courtesy of MUJI. Photo: Courtesy of MUJI. Photo: Courtesy of MUJI. Photo: Courtesy of MUJI. Photo: Courtesy of MUJI. Photo: Courtesy of MUJI. Photo: Courtesy of MUJI. Photo: Courtesy of MUJI. Photo: Courtesy of MUJI. Photo: Courtesy of MUJI. Photo: Courtesy of MUJI. Photo: Courtesy of MUJI. | 4 | 1,639 | lifestyle |
Marriage isn't all lovey-dovey fun . There's a good dose of that, sure, but there's also the part where you have to take care of life's often mundane tasks like paying the bills, keeping up the house, and grocery shopping. Couples usually choose to divide and conquer, but sometimes things slip through the cracks. To help you avoid this, here are some ways you and your new husband can set up a foolproof system of responsibilities as you establish your new household . Lay it all out There are so many details involved in running a household that it's easy for some of them to get overlooked. Make a comprehensive list of everything it takes to keep the house up, from essential bills to budgets to cleaning and bigger maintenance jobs. You can sit down and do it together or set up a shared spreadsheet, such as Google Docs. Divide duties according to your strengths One of you is great with numbers and the other can't get enough time outside. It seems obvious who should be in charge of bills and who should take the helm on yard upkeep says Margot Brown, PsyD, licensed marriage family therapist and author of The 72 Hour Rule: A Do-It-Yourself Couples Therapy Book! . Check in regularly One of the secrets to smoothly operating systems is that there are checks built in, scheduled maintenance. You can't assume the responsibilities and schedules you and your partner set up going to function smoothly just because you set them up to do so. Keep on top of things by setting up a regular check-in with your spouse. Hold each other accountable, gently Having weekly check-ins creates a neutral space for you both to hold each other accountable for your responsibilities. It's not either of you nagging; it's just part of the system. Help each other out Sometimes, one of you will be swamped at work or someone will be sick. When that happens, step up and take on your spouse's responsibilities. It may feel like an extra burden (because it likely is), but remember that it's temporary and ultimately benefits you both. Give yourselves a break Don't forget to schedule in some fun ! If you have to, hold your weekly check ins at brunch or over a glass of wine at your favorite neighborhood restaurant. Just because taking care of household responsibilities are necessary, it doesn't have to be boring or deadly serious. Reward yourselves (and each other) for a job well done. Jolène M. Bouchon is a regular contributor to Brides.com and a freelance writer. | 4 | 1,640 | lifestyle |
While you shiver and pine for warmer climates, these five animals are owning winter. | 8 | 1,641 | video |
It starts with the color blue. As Acura attempts to expand its reach among luxury buyers, the brand's next step may be embodied in the visually arresting Andaro Blue paint on the TLX concept by Galpin Auto Sports (GAS). Debuting at the 2014 SEMA Show , the modified TLX is bold for an Acura, but subtle in a show also featuring a Camaro with 34-inch wheels and an 850-hp Camry "Sleeper" dragster . We talked with Acura global creative director Dave Marek about how the TLX SEMA concept came together and what the show car indicates about the brand's future direction. Marek, who is responsible for Acura design around the world, says that the new Acura signature color seen on the SEMA concept could be adapted to a non-show car. "It's production ready, and ... the process is more intensive than say, a Civic," Marek notes of the three-stage Andaro Blue paint. "It's not easy to do, but it's worth it." In fact, getting that paint right comprised two-and-a-half weeks of the show car's two-month build process. Offering an extra-cost color like that on a TLX could happen, but expect to only see it on the more sporty editions of cars such as the TLX and ILX, the 2016 version of which debuts later this month at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show. Having a signature color potentially available on certain models of future Acuras could help owners feel more special about their cars. "The next round of styling will be more premium-brand, performance feeling, and more noticeable," Marek says. Without compromising the brand's core strengths, Marek believes Acura can give customers "a little more style." Even some customers who love their cars, Marek explains, wish they were a bit bolder. Without going over the top, Marek admits "we have the opportunity to go farther." And, oddly enough, one of the first examples of that effort could come with visible exhaust outlets. The TLX by GAS has a polarizing bold lower rear fascia with integrated dual exhaust outlets. No current Acura has visible exhaust outlets, because some consumers think of them as "old-school," yet Acura drivers are requesting them across the lineup. "You want to be modern and you want to feel tech-y, but you also want to ... please the customer and want to feel performance." So if Acura were to introduce a sportier variant of one of its cars in the next few years, don't be surprised to once again see visible exhaust outlets and the option of an Andaro Blue-like paint, with some matching interior accents. We're not yet sold on the TLX show car's distinctive rear spoiler, but compared to the first versions designers experimented with that were nearly as tall as the one on the TLX GT race car (pictured below), it's been dialed down a bit. Though Marek feels the overall feel of the show car's design is perfect, perhaps if the two teams had more time, he wouldn't mind seeing the front match more with the back. In front, piano black trim Marek describes as more sinister and tough-feeling than the stock chrome also add to the appeal of the show car, which had no engine or interior modifications. "This is a way to get people to go, 'Huh, I didn't realize you could do that with a TLX,'" Marek says. While Marek and Acura look to the future of the brand's design, he points to the 2004 TL sedan and the original NSX as cars that really connected with customers. "We can do that. We always have. We're that brand -- people just forgot." As we've been hearing for a while now, people will likely remember once the new NSX eventually debuts. "When it comes," Marek says, "it's going to be spectacular." And the TLX show car by GAS? Galpin owns it, but the concept's designer, Doug Breuninger, is interested in buying it. As Acura evolves its design language over the next few years, Marek should hope to capture the same level of interest from an increasing number of luxury buyers around the world. | 9 | 1,642 | autos |
President Obama is sending up to 1,500 more soldiers to Iraq to train Iraqi and Kurdish forces. Jim Sciutto reports. | 5 | 1,643 | news |
Daniel Ricciardo's beaming grin was wider than usual on Friday after an upbeat showing for Red Bull in opening free practice for Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix. "The early signs are really good," explained the Australian. "It is our best on long runs that we have seen even though they were not very long and, like for like, we feel we had a good Friday." "I think we are closer to Mercedes than we have been at the last few races and we have a good chance here." Despite his faith in Red Bull's race speed, Ricciardo does not think Mercedes can be challenged in qualifying unless it rains. "We have a good chance in those (wet) conditions, but let's see what happens there," he said. "In the dry we have to aim for the second row." Ricciardo's Red Bull team-mate departing four time champion Sebastian Vettel had a more difficult Friday, but was also broadly optimistic about the car's potential. "Overall it was okay. We had a few issues, but I don't think we had too many Fridays that were trouble free… In the dry, if we get everything right, we should be in a reasonable place." While the Red Bull men were optimistic, world championship leading Briton Lewis Hamilton suggested he had plenty more speed to come in his Mercedes car. Asked if he had managed to clock a clean lap amid three red flags and some mistakes, the championship leader replied: "No I didn't. That's not a big issue. It's practice." "Quite a few red flags at the end so we didn't get the best of long running, but it's the same for everyone. The car feels OK, some improvements we can make." | 1 | 1,644 | sports |
Gabrielle Union, Jennifer Lopez and more ageless wonders Some of our favorite stars have clearly stumbled upon the fountain of youth. How else do you explain the fact that they seemingly don't age? Styles may change, but celebs like Jennifer Lopez, Rob Lowe and Kate Hudson inexplicably look the same today as they did a decade (or more!) ago. In honor of Gabrielle Union's birthday on Oct. 29, click through to check out 40 ageless wonders, starting with the " Bring It On " actress, who could still pass for a high school student even though her cheerleading days are long behind her. Whatever beauty routine this 43-year-old actress is following, bring it on! Jennifer Lopez is a freak of nature. And we mean that in the best way possible! The 46-year-old singer-actress has barely aged in the last 15 years. We finally figured out why Pharrell Williams is so "Happy." It's because he doesn't age. Seriously, check out the 42-year-old producer between 2005 and now. Will Smith may be the movie king as far as Hollywood is concerned. But as far as we're concerned, the 47-year-old actor will always be the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air -- because he looks like he's barely aged since the show went off the air in '96. The only thing that's changed about 48-year-old Julia Roberts in the past 15 years is her hair. If you really want to be our "Hero," Enrique Iglesias, you'll explain to us how you're 39 and haven't aged in the past decade. LL Cool J has given up on over-the-top fashion since the early '90s, but the 47-year-old hasn't given up on looking like he's in his 20s. Eva Mendes just keeps getting better with age! The 41-year-old beauty looks even better now than she did back in 2004. Have mercy! If this is what 52 is supposed to look like, we're all in trouble. Thanks a lot, John Stamos. Kate Hudson's passion for plunging necklines isn't the only thing that's gone unchanged since 2003. She may favor more dramatic makeup these days, but her face looks just as youthful as ever. Yep, Stacey Dash was almost 30 when she starred as Dionne in " Clueless ." The 48-year-old actress is clearly the most stunning freak of nature ever. The boyishly good-looking " Revenge " star is 43 years old! It must be the blond hair and baby blues that make Gabriel Mann look so young. The 46-year-old actress is like a fine wine! She just gets hotter and hotter with age. We wonder what Lucy Liu's secret is... Tobey Maguire's facial hair may make him look a few years older, but as long as he keeps rocking the same hairstyle he sported back in '02, he'll look more like a Spider-Boy than Spider-Man -- even though he's 40 now! Michelle Williams may have starred in " Dawson's Creek " more than a decade ago, but to us, she'll always be Jen Lindley -- mostly because she looks exactly the same now at age 35 as she did when the show ended. Much like the elf she played in the " Lord of the Rings " trilogy, Liv Tyler is immortal and impervious to aging. She's the youngest-looking 38-year-old we've ever seen! How do we explain 46-year-old Edward Norton's ageless appearance? Well, the first rule of being a vampire is you do not talk about being a vampire. The second rule of being a vampire is... When she got her start in Hollywood, Reese Witherspoon was a cherub-faced beauty. Decades later, nothing has really changed -- and she turned 39 this year! At 39, Alicia Silverstone is clearly anything but " Clueless " when it comes to making herself look as fresh-faced now as she did back in 1997. Patrick Dempsey thankfully ditched the unruly 'do he favored in the mid '90s. Other than that, he looks practically the same -- if not better! -- at age 49 than he did in his 20s. Can you believe Ralph Macchio is 53?! His youthful looks are pretty shocking -- especially when you do the math and realize that when he made " The Karate Kid ," Ralph wasn't a kid at all! The '80s star was already in his 20s when he took on the star-making role. Two things haven't changed for 58-year-old Vanna White since 1983: her ability to turn letters like a pro on " Wheel of Fortune " and her youthful appearance. Did a glitch in the matrix give Keanu Reeves the ability to look young forever? The actor is 51! Michelle Pfeiffer has played everything from a high school student to a high school teacher -- and she's kept her youthful looks all the while. Could you have guessed she's 57? Scott Wolf, 47, hasn't seen much success on the small screen since his " Party of Five " days, but hey, at least he's still got his boyish Bailey Salinger looks! Christie Brinkley may not have stayed Billy Joel's "Uptown Girl" forever, but she sure has retained her girlish looks since the '80s. This gorgeous lady turned 60 in 2014! It's hard to believe the 42-year-old Oscar winner has been alive for more than four decades. Jared Leto barely looks a day older than when he first burst onto the scene in the mid-'90s. Thanks to her forever-young face, Naomi Campbell has been one of fashion's top models since the mid-'90s. Even today, the 45-year-old beauty barely looks a day over 30. Technically, we watched Elijah Wood grow up in the spotlight -- but we're using the term "grow up" lightly. The 34-year-old has had the same baby face for years! Paul Rudd played Cher's college-age stepbrother in " Clueless ." Somehow, he still looks like he could fit in on campus -- even though he's 46 now. She may be a 46-year-old mother of three, but Gwen Stefani still looks like she's "Just a Girl." He's been around since the '80s -- and survived some hard living -- but Rob Lowe has maintained his youthful glow. How does the 51-year-old do it? Elle Macpherson may be known as The Body, but you've also got to give her credit for her face. It hasn't aged a bit. And she's 51! Jennifer Aniston has worked steadily since the late '80s, but there's not much of a difference in her appearance from 1997 to today. If only all of us could look as great as the 46-year-old " Friends " alum! Chalk it up to her GOOP lifestyle, but there was hardly a sign of aging on Gwyneth Paltrow's face between 1997 and 2014. The 43-year-old mama is certainly genetically blessed! Paparazzi camera flashes must have preservation powers because Tom Cruise looks just as good today as he did decades ago. Talk about a 53-year-old with good genes! Demi Moore's marriage to Ashton Kutcher may have ended, but the 52-year-old beauty looks almost the same as she did during her days as a member of the Brat Pack. Decades after her pageant days, Halle Berry's award-winning beauty is still perfectly intact. Isn't she flawless at 49? You'd think that years of hard rockin' would have aged Jon Bon Jovi. Not so! He's still looking young and fresh at 53. Former Miss America Vanessa Williams could easily take on the pageant circuit at age 52. | 6 | 1,645 | entertainment |
Commence the freakout: we've rounded up the 15 most darling, delicious, and downright dreamy rainbow-sprinkles-studded recipes. From sprinkle-loaded cupcakes to milkshakes, blondies to brownies, these recipes will inspire you to stock your shelves with a surplus of the best baking ingredient that exists (rainbow sprinkles, duh!). Source: Anna Monette Roberts, Girl Versus Dough, Nicole Perry, and Cooking Classy Baked Strawberry-Glazed Doughnuts Darling doughnuts without deep-frying? Count us in! These pretty-in-pink pastries get their rosy hue from a strawberry glaze. Source: Girl Versus Dough See more: Doughnut recipes Yellow Birthday Cake With Salted Buttercream Salted-buttercream-slathered yellow cake is festive enough in its own right, but cover every last inch of it in rainbow sprinkles, and it might just blow your mind. Photo: Anna Monette Roberts See more: Birthday cake ideas Sprinkle-Studded Slutty Brownies Make slutty brownies - a layered confection that combines brownies, Oreos, and chocolate chip cookies - even more epic by loading up the cookie base with rainbow sprinkles. Source: POPSUGAR Studios See more: Brownie recipes Funfetti Angel Food Cupcakes Cloud-like cream cheese whipped cream frosting is just the right topper for airy funfetti angel food cupcakes . Source: Cooking Classy See more: Angel food cakes Frosted Cake Mix Cookies The simple secret to these frosting-swirled cookies is that they're made with cake mix. Source: My Baking Addiction See more: Frosted cookie ideas Confetti Cookie Dough Layer Cake If you're going to take the time to bake a layer cake, you may as well go all out and make this confetti cookie dough layer cake . Source: POPSUGAR Studios See more: Cookie dough inspirations Cake Batter Milkshake Transform a vanilla shake into an infinitely superior cake batter milkshake with the addition of funfetti cake mix and a sprinkle-coated rim. Source: Cooking Classy See more: Milkshake recipes Glazed Funfetti Muffins Hit your sprinkle quota at every meal - even breakfast - with glazed funfetti muffins. Source: Cooking Classy See more: Glazed desserts Polka-Dot Sprinkle Cake It doesn't get much cuter than this polka-dot birthday cake that boasts cheery spots both on the outside and inside. Source: Handmade Charlotte See more: Cake ideas Sprinkle Sugar Cookies Fold sprinkles into otherwise-classic sugar cookie dough and then roll them in more sprinkles before baking for double the fun. Source: Joy the Baker See more: Sugar cookie ideas Birthday-Cake-Oreo-Stuffed Funfetti Cupcakes No need to choose between cake and cookies: make Oreo-stuffed funfetti cupcakes instead. Source: POPSUGAR Studios See more: Oreo inspired recipes Funfetti Blondies If you make just one recipe out of the bunch, make these chewy, butter-rich funfetti blondies it. Photo: Nicole Perry See more: Blondie recipes Brown Butter Funfetti Cupcake Push Pops Party favors don't get much better than brown butter funfetti cupcake push pops . Source: Girl Versus Dough See more: Mini cupcake delights Funfetti Ice Cream Cake Funfetti ice cream cake is full-bore festive. Source: POPSUGAR Studios See more: Ice cream cake ideas Funfetti Cake in a Jar Layer funfetti cake scraps, rich vanilla buttercream, and a boatload of sprinkles in a mason jar for a gift-worthy treat . Source: POPSUGAR Studios See more: Desserts and other fun recipes suitable for a jar | 0 | 1,646 | foodanddrink |
Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Alan Kulwicki performs his trademark 'Polish Victory Lap' after winning the inaugural NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event at Phoenix International Raceway. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Bill Elliott hoists the trophy after winning at Phoenix International Raceway in 1989. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Dale Earnhardt was the third Sprint Cup Series driver to score a win at Phoenix International Raceway in 1990. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Crew chief Larry McReynolds, driver Davey Allison, and team owner Robert Yates celebrate their 1991 victory at Phoenix International Raceway. Allison also won the 1992 race there. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Terry Labonte took his No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet to Victory Lane in Phoenix in 1994. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Bobby Hamilton took 'The King' Richard Petty to Victory Lane when he scored the win in the famous No. 43 during the 1996 Sprint Cup Series race at Phoenix International Raceway. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Dale Jarrett celebrates his lone win at Phoenix International Raceway in 1997 driving for team owner Robert Yates. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Tony Stewart celebrates the second win of his Sprint Cup Series career at Phoenix International Raceway in 1999. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Jeff Burton scored wins in 2000 and 2001 at Phoenix International Raceway while driving for Roush Fenway Racing. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Matt Kenseth celebrates his 2002 win at Phoenix International Raceway. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Dale Earnhardt Jr. also scored back-to-back wins at Phoenix International Raceway in 2003 and 2004. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Kurt Busch does celebratory donuts after winning the Sprint Cup Series race at Phoenix International Raceway in 2005. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Kevin Harvick shows off his burnout skills after winning at Phoenix International Raceway. Harvick has a total of five wins in Phoenix. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Jeff Gordon scored his first Phoenix victory in 2007, tying Dale Earnhardt on the all-time win list. Gordon marked the honor by driving around with a No. 3 flag during his post-race celebration. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Ryan Newman smokes the tires doing burnouts after winning for Stewart-Haas Racing early in 2010 at Phoenix International Raceay. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Carl Edwards celebrates with the fans in the frontstretch grandstands after scoring the win at Phoenix International Raceway in 2010. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Kasey Kahne celebrates in Victory Lane after scoring the win at Phoenix International Raceway in 2011. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Denny Hamlin poses with his trophy after going to Victory Lane at Phoenix International Raceway early in the 2012 season. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Carl Edwards performs his signature backflip after winning the first race at Phoenix International Raceway in 2013. Photos: Past winners at Phoenix International Raceway Kevin Harvick's Richard Childress Racing crew celebrates after their driver scored the win at Phoenix International Raceway in Nov. 2013. 94174883RG029_General-55 | 1 | 1,647 | sports |
Nov. 7 (Bloomberg) -- Tom Kellermann, chief cybersecurity officer at Trend Micro, discusses the Home Depot data breach with Bloomberg's Trish Regan on "Street Smart." (Source: Bloomberg) | 8 | 1,648 | video |
I've never been one for pageant ringlets, but I recently chopped my hair into a lob (inspired by who else? Lauren Conrad ), so anything curling-iron-y is out of the question. The appeal of this choppy look is that it's supposed to be messy. It's the golden rule of cool-girl hair : The less effort it appears you put in, the better. To help me adapt to my new cut, hairstylist Matt Fugate of the Sally Hershberger Downtown salon taught me an easy trick for getting a perfectly rumpled texture. Let your hair air-dry until it's about 75 percent dry, then rough-dry it with a blow-dryer (no brush!) to to get it mostly dry. Attach a concentrator nozzle to your blow-dryer and grab a two-inch section of hair by the ends. Bend the section up toward your crown, letting the bend settle wherever you want to create a dent, and blast that area with your blow-dryer for a few seconds. "You're randomly pressing the nozzle into the spots you want to have movement to create a messy texture," says Fugate. Repeat that process, alternating directions to give a random haphazardness to the texture. Spritz some texturizing or salt spray (I'm obsessed with Sachajuan Ocean Mist) on your palms, then scrunch it through hair for definition. Fugate says this technique works best if you have medium or fine hair and a "shattered" bob or a midlength layered cut. He also recommends using a powerful blow-dryer, like the BaBylissPRO Italia Brava Blow Dryer , which has a turbo-boost button. | 4 | 1,649 | lifestyle |
Today marks the premiere of another fantastical, visually stunning Christopher Nolan film. In Interstellar, humanity is on the brink of extinction. It's up to a crack team of NASA scientists, astronauts, and engineers to blast off into space and look for another viable planet on which the human race can continue. Without giving too much away, that crack team consists of Cooper (Matthew McConaughey), Amelia (Anne Hathaway), Doyle (Wes Bentley), and Romilly (David Gyasi). Later on, Coop's daughter Murph (Jessica Chastain) joins NASA's efforts to save everyone. We applaud this lineup, but Interstellar got us thinking. How many movies, TV shows, and even music videos feature a man or a team of men venturing to infinity and beyond for some heroic space exploits? Whether it's saving the world or defeating an alien race threatening to take over our planet, it seems like Hollywood will call upon anyone with a penis before say, Anne Hathaway, is allowed to stand up for humanity and kick some interstellar butt. Now, we hear you starting to say, "But, what about Gravity?" Hear us out. Sandra Bullock's character was merely on a mission to collect data. She was not intentionally blasted into space for the sole purpose of becoming a hero. It just so happened that, while she was up there, shit went down. Things can get dicey in space. No one can hear you scream. We also sense you thinking Alien, but it's pretty grim if the ratio of male to female space heroes is basically a zillion to Sigourney Weaver. With that in mind, here's a list of all of the often-ridiculous characters brought in for adventures in the great beyond before Hollywood finally called upon Anne Hathaway to do the job. Photo: Courtesy of Paramount Pictures. Today marks the premiere of another fantastical, visually stunning Christopher Nolan film. In Interstellar, humanity is on the brink of extinction. It's up to a crack team of NASA scientists, astronauts, and engineers to blast off into space and look for another viable planet on which the human race can continue. Without giving too much away, that crack team consists of Cooper (Matthew McConaughey), Amelia (Anne Hathaway), Doyle (Wes Bentley), and Romilly (David Gyasi). Later on, Coop's daughter Murph (Jessica Chastain) joins NASA's efforts to save everyone.We applaud this lineup, but Interstellar got us thinking. How many movies, TV shows, and even music videos feature a man or a team of men venturing to infinity and beyond for some heroic space exploits? Whether it's saving the world or defeating an alien race threatening to take over our planet, it seems like Hollywood will call upon anyone with a penis before say, Anne Hathaway, is allowed to stand up for humanity and kick some interstellar butt. Now, we hear you starting to say, "But, what about Gravity?" Hear us out. Sandra Bullock's character was merely on a mission to collect data. She was not intentionally blasted into space for the sole purpose of becoming a hero. It just so happened that, while she was up there, shit went down. Things can get dicey in space. No one can hear you scream. We also sense you thinking Alien, but it's pretty grim if the ratio of male to female space heroes is basically a zillion to Sigourney Weaver. With that in mind, here's a list of all of the often-ridiculous characters brought in for adventures in the great beyond before Hollywood finally called upon Anne Hathaway to do the job. Photo: Courtesy of Touchstone Pictures. Ben AffleckAs Seen In: ArmageddonI don't want to close my eyes, and I don't want to fall asleep. But, it's not because I miss you, babe, and I don't want to miss a thing. It's because Ben Affleck and Bruce Willis are our only hope of stopping a massive asteroid from destroying Earth, and poor Liv Tyler had to stay at home, hugging a box of animal crackers. Photo: Courtesy of Pixar. WALL-EAs Seen In: WALL-EHe's a robot. Yes, a lovable one created by Pixar who's developed extremely human emotions and actions. Still. He's a male robot. Photo: Courtesy of Paramount Pictures. The Guy Who Went To White CastleAs Seen In: Star TrekYou know the story: id and ego personifications Kirk and Spock constantly fight off interstellar dark forces. BUT DID HAROLD SULU GO TO GET MINIATURE BURGERS BEFORE OR AFTER HE WENT TO SPACE? Photo: REX USA/C.WARNER BR/EVERETT. All These GuysAs Seen In: Space CowboysThere's a grand tradition of films based on the elevator pitch of, "How can we pull together a bunch of guaranteed box-office-smash names willing to lower their standards because they're getting older and need a win?" (See also: Wild Hogs, Last Vegas, The Expendables.) This is one of those movies. Former test pilots Tommy Lee Jones, Clint Eastwood, Donald Sutherland, and James Garner are the only ones who possess the knowledge necessary to destroy an obsolete Soviet communications satellite threatening to crash into Earth. And, of course young hotties *NSYNC contributed to the soundtrack. Yippie-yi-yay. Photo: Courtesy of Universal Pictures. Vin DieselAs Seen In: Chronicles of RiddickNow that we think about it, Vin Diesel is actually totally qualified for this job. He's already proven his worth as a caretaker of both humans and ducks in The Pacifier. More like Chronicles of Riddiculous, amirite? Photo: Courtesy of Warner Bros. John Travolta And His Nose StringsAs Seen In: Battlefield EarthIt's the year 3000. An alien race has enslaved the human race, pushing us to the brink of extinction. Sounds like we're desperate, and it's one of those put-all-your-eggs-in-one-basket situation. But, you know what? Let's send a middle-aged, dreadlocked Danny Zuko. Excellent plan. Photo: Courtesy of Caravan Pictures/Disney. This Fucking Guy & His MonkeyAs Seen In: RocketManZero shade to throw at this movie. It's one of the best '90s films about space (and it's Disney, so, you know. Family friendly!). But, the lone lady's role on this ship was to dance with the spaceman, and that's about it. Photo: Courtesy of MGM. People Pretending To Be HeroesAs Seen In: SpaceballsCaptain Lone Starr (Bill Pullman) is the hero in Mel Brooks' hilarious parody of other sci-fi adventures including Star Wars, Star Trek, Planet of the Apes, and Alien. And, wouldn't you know, Princess Leia mirror Princess Vespa really loves her industrial-strength hair dryer. Photo: Courtesy of Castle Rock Entertainment. Nightclub Owner Pluto NashAs Seen In: The Adventures Of Pluto NashNightclub owner and retired smuggler Pluto Nash (Eddie Murphy) is tasked with rescuing Dina Lake (Rosario Dawson) when she becomes stranded on the Moon. There's a reason this film is considered one of the biggest box-office bombs of all time. Photo: Courtesy of Jim Henson Pictures. All These MuppetsAs Seen In: Muppets In SpaceIn fairness, Beaker is a scientist. He should probably be up there. But, there were literally, like, 12 fuzzy puppets who became space pioneers before Hathaway got her chance. Photo: Courtesy of Twentieth Century Fox. The Former Marine Who Never ListensAs Seen In: Avatar"Eh, I dunno guys. I kinda like this new planet." - hero they chose."You had ONE job." - everyone else.Though, they did let Michelle Rodriguez fly the helicopter. Photo: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Michael Jordan & the Looney TunesAs Seen In: Space JamQuick sidenote: Did you know that the movie's original website is still active in all its 1996 glory? If not, happy Friday to you and yours. Back to our space heroes, though, which in Space Jam are professional basketball players and cartoon characters. It's basically the story of Michael Jordan rescuing the Looney Tunes and deciding to unretire from basketball in the process. A real hero's journey, if you will. Photo: Courtesy of Lucas Film/Twentieth Century Fox. A WookieeAs Seen In: Star WarsChewbacca was also joined by such sidekicks as a short robot and a tall robot. And, don't start with the space-hero campaign for Princess Leia. Girlfriend was 90% sex object, 10% useful person to have in space. Photo: Courtesy of Dreamworks. Ron Burgundy & Veronica CorningstoneAs Seen In: Anchorman: The Legend of Ron BurgundyDid you know Pleasure Town is in space? Photo: REX USA/DAVE LEWIS. *NSYNCTechnically, this is a song, not a movie. And we know we kinda already mentioned it. But, c'mon! You see what we're going for here. | 6 | 1,650 | entertainment |
Saturn and Jupiter might be teaming with diamonds! Amy examines how these precious stones may be so plentiful on these gas giant planets that they aren't rare at all. | 8 | 1,651 | video |
The Red Sox will meet with Pablo Sandoval's agents at the GM winter meeetings next. Do you like the fit for Boston? | 1 | 1,652 | sports |
Sorry, I just made this awkward. | 8 | 1,653 | video |
Emma Stone just turned 26 years old, and the actress keeps getting better with age. Everyone already knows how much she loves the Spice Girls, but we've dug up some extraspecial fun facts about Andrew Garfield's better half just for her birthday. | 8 | 1,654 | video |
Last Meals of the most notorious Death Row Convicts! | 8 | 1,655 | video |
Nude photo rumors are pretty commonplace for most Hollywood actresses, so when Big Bang Theory star Kaley Cuoco first got an email alert about this summer's iCloud photo hack, she didn't think much of it. | 6 | 1,656 | entertainment |
Have the Cowboys had a better season than the Eagles? SI's Chris Burke reveals his detailed report card for the NFC East. | 1 | 1,657 | sports |
The Patriots are clearly the best team in the AFC East, but what about the rest of the division? SI's Chris Burke gives his midseason report card for the entire AFC East. | 1 | 1,658 | sports |
As a means of securing the best and brightest, many companies now are paying far more attention than ever before to the environment created by their work spaces. It makes sense many professionals spend more hours at the office each week than they do at home, and an office that provides space for group gatherings, brainstorming, relaxation, and collaboration can boost productivity and prove an attractive reason to come to work each day instead of telecommuting. Each year, Glassdoor combs through thousands of photos shared across its website and apps to identify ten truly unique and inviting work spaces at companies across the country. Many of the offices represented are from the tech sector, where a creative, driven, and nonconformist culture coupled often with healthy profits has made offices outfitted with ping pong tables, bean bag chairs, and "huddle rooms" an industry norm. Here are this year's 10 Cool Office Spaces : As a means of securing the best and brightest, many companies now are paying far more attention than ever before to the environment created by their work spaces. 1) Zappos 2) HomeAway 3) Starbucks 4) Salesforce.com 5) Hubspot 6) JustFab 7) Ogilvy & Mather 8) Oracle 9) Groupon 10) Red Door Interactive | 5 | 1,659 | news |
We are two days away from the final race of the eliminator round of the new NASCAR playoff system. Will last week's fight play a part in this race? #120talk | 1 | 1,660 | sports |
It's November, which means fall is really here (but don't go getting this excited just yet)! Madonna, Kate Hudson, and Naya Rivera are just a few of the stars who are taking the opportunity to layer up with trench coats, beanies and fur hooded coats. With colder months ahead, a coat is one way to set the tone for your entire outfit. Trench coats are always a classic choice and you can put your unique twist on the staple unexpected detailing such as faux leather cuffs. If you want to go more casual, try a denim parka. It will give you versatility for the season and you can wear it over a sweater or a dress. A lace overcoat is a ladylike choice for dressier occasions. It will instantly elevate your look with its delicate detailing. | 6 | 1,661 | entertainment |
Jameis Winston has been accused of throwing the first half against Louisville, and we've done a little more research. FSU is 1-7 against the halftime spread. | 1 | 1,662 | sports |
Kobe was asked if he sees any similarities between himself and Michael Jordan when he played for the Wizards. How'd the Mamba respond? | 1 | 1,663 | sports |
The Steelers were given a "B+" in the SI midseason report cards. We ask Chris Burke if he expects them to improve in the second half of the season. | 1 | 1,664 | sports |
And they had no idea what they were getting themselves into. | 8 | 1,665 | video |
The Wings scored on two power plays to secure a 4-2 win at home against the Devils. | 1 | 1,666 | sports |
The Blue Jackets dropped another game, this time to the Hurricanes on the strength on an OT winner from Elias Lindholm. | 1 | 1,667 | sports |
The Oilers had a huge third period, scoring two goals in the final ten minutes. Boyd Gordon and Mark Arcobello both tickled the twine in the final 20. | 1 | 1,668 | sports |
We ask Chris Burke why the Lions, who are fifth in SI's NFL Power Rankings, were given a "B" for the first half of the season. | 1 | 1,669 | sports |
Hear from Lance Stepenson after the Hornets' thrilling double-overtime win over the Atlanta Hawks. | 1 | 1,670 | sports |
There's no doubt the duffel bag is a great travel companion. Its oversized-ness and flexible dimensions are an over-packer's dream. (You never know when you'll need multiple pairs of shoes, right?) But, when your weekender's handles and straps aren't situated just so, you might find that your go-to travel gear is actually a real pain hitting your legs with each step and straining your back throughout your commute. If bruises and sore muscles don't sound like the accessories you were planning to bring for your weekend R&R, there's a fix for that. Travel cases with adjustable straps (that can be worn crossbody or over your shoulder) and a few wheeled options, too, will help you bid adieu to any unwanted side effects without compromising on space. Ahead, 23 hassle-free, pain-free solutions. Bon voyage, indeed. Like this post? There's more. Get tons of style secrets, insider shopping dish, fashion news, and more on the Refinery29 Fashion Facebook page! A classic roll duffel that can be worn over the shoulder? Check and check. Baggu Canvas Duffel Bag, $82, available at Steven Alan. A long, adjustable strap to suit your specific needs. Balmain Canvas Pierre Duffel, $1950, available at Barneys New York. This quilted crossbody balances its weight for carefree carrying. ASOS Quilted Nylon Carryall, $37.90, available at ASOS. Added wheels: Can it get any more hassle-free? Filson Wheeled Carry-On, $545, available at Revolve. A larger rolling suitcase for your long weekend away. Free People Road Trip Rolly Bag, $168, available at Free People. Pretty and easy to tote. Clare V. Large Herringbone Wool Duffle Bag, $215, available at The Outnet. A pop-arty punch of color to spice up your luggage set. Ella Vickers Sail Cloth Excursion Duffel, $218, available at AHAlife. Weekenders are the perfect alternative to your large duffel, with all the same useful qualities and just the right amount of space. Gräf & Lantz Parker Weekender, $389, available at Gräf & Lantz. A colorblocked crossbody is an alliterative must-have. J.Crew Canvas Overnight Bag, $36.50, available at J.Crew. A cute shoulder tote to get you through your mini vacations. Kate Spade Saturday The Small Weekender Bag in Black White Stripe, $160, available at Kate Spade Saturday. A dose of sporty cool not that we'd expect any less from Puma. PUMA Travel & Duffel Bag, $106, available at yoox.com. Shoulder cushions help ease the weight. Rebecca Minkoff Mini Wythe Weekender, $350, available at Rebecca Minkoff. This handy option comes with long top handles for shoulder carrying, and crossbody capabilities. Liberty London Black Liberty London Regent Weekend Bag, $1029.64, available at Liberty London. The thick, rolled handles make such a difference when you've loaded this bag up. Jack Wills Talford Duffle, $98.50, available at Jack Wills. Durability is key, and this investment piece promises easygoing travel over and over again. Valentino Printed Leather and Canvas Travel Trolley, $4545, available at NET-A-PORTER. Accomplishes the travel trifecta of shoulder bag, crossbody, and wheeled luggage. Tommy Hilfiger Scout Wheeled Duffel, $159.99, available at Tommy Hilfiger. Your go-to gym duffel. Nike Nike Brassie Day Duffel, $70, available at Nike. Vintage-inspired rolling luggage is just as chic, but way more low-maintenance than the real deal. Globe-Trotter Limited Edition X+Q Art Wheeled Suitcase, $2055, available at Lane Crawford. Another shoulder saver. Herschel Supply Co. Lonsdale Duffle, $129.99, available at Herschel Supply Co. The cutest checked crossbody to bring on all your getaways. Kelsi Dagger Highland Plaid Weekender, $198, available at Anthropologie. When you want to give all those LAX paparazzi something to look at. Mossimo Arrow Print Duffle Weekender Handbag with Removable Strap, $34.99, available at Target. A weather-resistant bag to accompany you on all your adventures. Porter 3 Way Weekender, $480, available at Roztayger. A deep burgundy is a seasonal staple. Everlane The Suede Weekender, $135, available at Everlane. | 2 | 1,671 | travel |
The Seahawks should be up some starters when they face the Giants this weekend, but will it make a difference? #120Talk | 1 | 1,672 | sports |
LeBron James talks about the Cavs' team win over the Nuggets. | 1 | 1,673 | sports |
Being on vacation topped a list of pleasures, edging out birthdays and finding money that was thought to be lost, in a recent survey conducted by strategic consulting firm Northstar on behalf of travel website Expedia.com. The firm surveyed a group of 7,855 employed adults over the age of 18, hailing from a total of 24 countries. When asked of the pleasures they would give up for a week in order to have just one extra day of vacation, 54 percent of respondents replied they would give up junk food. Forty-eight percent would give up alcohol, 24 percent would give up sex and a whopping 42 percent would give up social media. Only 20 percent said they'd give up the Internet for a week in order to gain an extra day of vacation and just nine percent said they'd give up showering. On a more serious note, 91 percent of respondents agreed with the statement "Regular vacations are important for general health and wellbeing." According to survey results, Europeans are given an average of 28 days of vacation, of which they take full advantage, whereas Americans are only given 15 and take 14. Asia-Pacific workers are given 19 days vacation, of which they take 14. | 4 | 1,674 | lifestyle |
We give 120 Seconds of Glory to Vancouver's Green Men, who are retiring after this season. | 1 | 1,675 | sports |
We give 120 Seconds of Glory to NBA legend Magic Johnson. | 1 | 1,676 | sports |
These Foods Simply Should Not Exist Some foods simply leave us scratching our heads, not exactly due to disgust, but because they legitimately have no right to even exist on this planet. Aspic For those unaware of what aspic is, we're glad you asked. Basically, it's Jell-O, but generally flavorless and colorless. Once upon a time, people thought that it was brilliant to suspend other foods, like various meats and entire salads, inside of it. Thankfully, a couple decades ago, the general public collectively wished for all dishes involving savory items suspended in gelatin to go away, and they did. See? It is possible! "Pancake Syrup" Millions of Americans most likely have no idea what real maple syrup, one of the most delicious foods in existence, tastes like. The culprit? Pancake or breakfast syrup, usually nothing more than high fructose corn syrup and artificial colorings and flavorings, taking its place on grocery store shelves. And that we can't abide. Doughnut Burgers Burgers are one of the world's perfect foods. The bun is an essential component of constructing a great burger, but some types of buns work better than others. Simple sesame-topped buns are great, for example. As are potato rolls. The jury's still out on English muffins. But you know what doesn't work? ENTIRE GLAZED DOUGHNUTS. Mark my words: Hundreds of years from now, this is how we'll be remembered as a society. Imitation Crab Also called krab or crab stick, imitation crab is made by puréeing fish (usually Alaska pollock), combining it with egg white or some other binder, adding lots of salt and "crab flavoring," magically turning it into something that looks like string cheese (right down to the peel-away fibers), then painting it partially red. You know what you can do instead of going through this lengthy process? Eat actual crab. KFC DoubleDown Everyone thought that this was a lame joke until it actually became reality: bacon, two types of cheese, and mayo-based sauce in between two pieces of fried chicken. Believe it or not, people actually ordered this monstrosity, and now the chain has introduced the "Zinger DoubleDown King," which adds a burger patty into the mix. Make it stop! Macaroni and Cheese-Topped Pizza This dish (if you can even call it that) shouldn't exist for several reasons. One, starch on starch. Two, it's pointless. It's like taking two slices of white bread and adding mashed potatoes and a slice of cheese. If you want pizza, eat pizza. If you want mac and cheese, eat mac and cheese. But don't tell me that there's a reason for taking a pizza crust and putting mac and cheese on it, because there isn't. There just isn't. Pizza Cake Hey, let's stack five pizzas on top of one another, then slice it like a cake!Or actually, let's not. Ramen Taco Replacing bread with other silly things is in vogue at the moment (hence the doughnut burgers and the DoubleDown), as is ramen. First there was the ramen burger, which is actually a nicely constructed dish, so we won't knock it. But you can't just take noodles, shape them, fry them, and use it as a taco shell. You can use a corn tortilla, a flour tortilla, a hard shell, but not fried noodles. We just won't allow it. Truffle Oil This may come as a surprise to some, but truffle oil is a monstrosity. If you've ever eaten a dish lavished with thin slices of real truffle, with its intoxicating aroma and subtle earthiness, you'll know what I'm talking about. Truffle oil, on the other hand, smacks you in the face with its flavor, overpowers just about anything you drizzle it over, and, oh yeah, it doesn't contain any real truffle. You know what truffle oil is made from? Olive or grapeseed oil, artificial odorants, and an aromatic thioether called 2,4-Dithiapentane. If you want your food to taste like truffles, save up and buy a truffle. Until then, let it go. White Castle Chicken Rings There are onion rings. There are chicken nuggets. Apparently someone in the White Castle R&D department decided that we want our chicken to be in the shape of rings, too, because that's exactly what they started selling. Apologies, but there's something just wrong about molding meat into "fun" shapes. | 0 | 1,677 | foodanddrink |
Celebrity Liquor Brands Celebrity Liquor Brands Celebrities never stick to their day jobs, but here's to those who decided to expand into the world of booze. Browse: Cocktail recipes 1. Dan Aykroyd: Crystal Head Vodka We think it's only natural that Dan Aykroyd, of Ghostbusters fame, makes vodka known for being sold in a glass skull bottle. Aykroyd, in partnership with New York-based artist John Alexander, wanted to create a vodka that was additive-free and as pure as possible and succeed he did, with a seven-times-distilled spirit made from Canadian-grown "peaches and cream" corn. Browse: Vodka cocktails 2. Marilyn Manson: Mansinthe Absinthe Made in Switzerland, Manson's absinthe is award-winning and delicious; it took the gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. As "unbranded" as Manson alludes to being, developing his own absinthe with his own artwork on the label seems strangely fitting. Browse: Absinthe cocktails 3. George Clooney: Casamigos Tequila Clooney's award-winning tequila, Casamigos, was a collaborative effort with his good friend the nightclub impresario Rande Gerber to create "the best-tasting, smoothest" tequila. Produced in Jalisco, Mexico, the liquor has received rave reviews; it even got one from The Daily Meal. Browse: Tequila cocktails 4. Justin Timberlake: Sauza 901 Tequila Named after his Memphis, Tenn. hometown area code, 901 Sliver Tequila is Justin Timberlake's own brand, which he co-founded with the major old-line tequila producer Sauza. Browse: Tequila cocktails 5. David Beckham: Haig Club Whisky At first glance, this bottle could be mistaken for a bottle of cologne, and between the elegant shape of the bottle and having David Beckham as the spokesperson and one of the men behind the project, it's easy to see why. Add to that the fact that Guy Richie directed the first commercial, and it's clear that Haig Club has laid claim to some of the U.K's most distinguished gentlemen. In case you think the brand relies on celebrity without authenticity, note that the whisky is made at Cameron Bridge Distillery, the oldest grain distillery in Scotland. Browse: Whisky cocktails 6. Bethenny Frankel: Skinnygirl Real Housewives of New York star and former daytime talk show host Bethenny Frankel runs the diet self-help empire known as Skinnygirl. Cocktails, books, and other products have now been released under the company's name, which prides itself on low-calorie, healthy food and drink products, including a line of low-cal margaritas and a range of wines. Browse: Light cocktails 7. Ron Jeremy : Ron de Jeremy Actor Ron Jeremy is a true crossover celebrity. He has not only appeared in many, er, adult films, but also in several music videos and debates, has written a book, and has made frequent TV appearances with his clothes on, of course. It's only natural that he lent his name to Ron de Jeremy, a brand of rum (ron in Spanish). Browse: Rum cocktails 8. Ludacris: Conjure Cognac Atlanta-based rapper and actor Christopher Brian Bridges, better known as Ludacris, has made a career of rapping about having a good time, so it comes as no surprise that he has an alcoholic beverage in his portfolio. This classy spirit is apparently handcrafted under the direction of Ludacris himself. Browse: Cognac cocktails 9. Willie Nelson: Old Whiskey River Bourbon Willie Nelson's bourbon is hard to come by, but that obscurity that is just what we would expect out of Willie. The 6-year aged bourbon has one marketing strategy, if you could call it that: his song from 1973, "Whiskey River." With lyrics like "Feeling the amber current flowin' from my mind," we're sold. Browse: Bourbon cocktails 10. Danny DeVito: Limoncello This odd celebrity/liqueur pairing spun an even odder stunt, on the daytime talk show The View, of all places, where Mr. DeVito made an appearance drunk on his owned and namesake limoncello with the excuse of having partied all night with George Clooney. Browse: Limoncello cocktails | 0 | 1,678 | foodanddrink |
Genius Fast-Food Chain Menu Hacks Genius Fast-Food Chain Menu Hacks Some people look at a fast-food menu and see nothing but a list of available options. Others look at it and see a challenge. Browse: Awesome burger recipes Burger King Want your burger topped with onion rings and barbecue sauce? Just ask for it; it's known as the Rodeo Burger. And if you're looking for a ham and cheese sandwich, they'll make you one of those as well (it's actually on the menu at some locations). Browse: Onion ring recipes Chick Fil-A There are a handful of off-menu items at Chick-Fil-A. You can replace a char-broiled chicken filet with a fried one on any sandwich, you can get Buffalo sauce on anything, and some locations will even make you a chicken "quesadilla": a sliced grilled chicken filet inside a whole grain wrap, with cheese. Browse: Quesadilla recipes Chipotle You've most likely heard of the Quesarito by now, but it's still one of the best fast food hacks around: they take a quesadilla (a secret menu item unto itself: a tortilla filled with cheese and meat, folded in half, and pressed), then opened back up, plied with even more fillings, then rolled up like a burrito). Don't ask for it during high-volume times because it takes a while to make, but everyone should experience this cheesy behemoth at least once. Browse: Mexican recipes KFC At KFC, they'll put mashed potatoes, gravy, or bacon on just about any menu item. Want your Doublicious sandwich topped with a schmear of mashed potatoes and a ladle of gravy? How about bacon on those Chicken Littles? You got it. Browse: Mashed potato recipes McDonald's More people have tried to hack the McDonald's menu over the years than any other chain, and they've certainly succeeded . During breakfast there's chicken and waffles (buy a sausage McGriddle and a Southern Style Chicken biscuit and swap out the sausage for chicken). Want them to blend an apple pie into your milkshake? Just ask. Later in the day, ask for a McKinley Mac (a Big Mac with quarter-pound patties), a grilled cheese, or the most famous off-menu item, a McChicken inside a double cheeseburger, known by a name that cannot be reprinted here. Browse: Milkshake recipes Shake Shack You can actually have a lot of fun working your way through Shake Shack's secret menu . You can get a cheese-topped hot dog, chile peppers on cheese fries, a quadruple-patty burger, a Chicago-style burger (as opposed to hot dog), a grilled cheese, ice cream on a potato bun (!), and sport peppers on anything. Browse: Hot dog recipes Sonic Sonic is another one of those chains where they'll give you extra of just about anything, but there's one off-menu item that they'll make or you if you ask nicely: deep-fried pickles. Browse: Fried pickle recipes Starbucks Starbucks has one of the most fun-to-hack menus of any chain, because there are just so many possibilities. While there's not much you can do with the pre-packaged food, when it comes to the drinks the possibilities are just about endless. Here are a bunch of ideas to get you started ; let your imagination run wild. A tip? Instead of asking for the secret items by name (no guarantees that your barista will know exactly what goes into a Butterbeer Latte), just tell them exactly how you'd like it made. Browse: Recipes with coffee Subway With so many possible sandwich combinations at Subway, you can ask for whatever you like and if they're not super slammed, they'll most likely make it for you. But here's a tip: If you want a trench dug out of the middle of your bread to make extra room for fillings, just ask for it to be cut "old-style." Browse: Sandwich recipes Wendy's Wendy's actually has a fairly comprehensive secret menu, complete with named items like the Grand Slam, which is four patties in one burger (also affectionately called the "Meat Cube"). Our favorite? The Barnyard: a burger patty, a spicy chicken fillet, ham, and bacon, with a slice of cheese in between each. Carnivorous perfection. Browse: Spicy chicken recipes | 0 | 1,679 | foodanddrink |
The season of giving (and getting) is upon us, and pies are some of the best things to share with those you love. All of the recipes featured can be made at home for about $20 or less, excluding the cost of small amounts of basic ingredients such as butter, oil, flour, sugar, salt, pepper, and other dried herbs and spices. 12 Classic Pie Recipes for Your Thanksgiving Table The season of giving (and getting) is upon us, and pies are some of the best things to share with those you love. All of the recipes featured can be made at home for about $20 or less, excluding the cost of small amounts of basic ingredients such as butter, oil, flour, sugar, salt, pepper, and other dried herbs and spices. Sweet Potato Meringue Pie If you like sweet potato casserole, you'll love this delicious pie. Creamy sweet potato custard is baked inside a piecrust and then topped with a marshmallow-like toasted meringue topping. Click here to see the recipe. Browse: Meringue recipes No-Bake Banana Pie A simple pie for all those times you want to make a dessert without turning on the oven. Click here to see the recipe. Browse: Banana pie recipes Shoofly Pie Sticky and sweet, molasses is an under-utilized pantry staple. Make a simple pie crust or use a store-bought crust for easy baking. Click here to see the recipe. Make: Mini Shoofly pies Peanut Butter Pumpkin Pie Just when we thought pumpkin pie couldn't get any better, along comes peanut butter pumpkin pie. Click here to see the recipe. Browse: Peanut butter pie recipes Caramel Apple Pie Achieve the iconic flavor of caramel apples in a pie with brown sugar and vanilla extract. Try using coconut oil, which is a solid at room temperature, to make a healthier-for-you pie crust. Click here to see the recipe. Browse: Apple pie recipes The Best Pumpkin Pie Filling Skip the recipe on the back of the can this year and try out a creamy, rich version of pumpkin pie. Click here to see the recipe. Browse: Pumpkin pie recipes Dark Chocolate Raspberry Pie Prebake a pie crust for this no-bake chocolate-cream cheese pie. Use fresh or thawed frozen raspberries for the gelatin topping. Click here to see the recipe. Browse: Raspberry dessert recipes Key Lime Tart Although Key lime season is throughout the summer, you can use bottled Key lime juice to make this pie during the rest of the year. Click here to see the recipe. Browse: Key lime recipes Banoffee Pie A traditional British dessert, banoffee pie is toffee layered with bananas and whipped cream. Click here to see the recipe. Browse: Banoffee pie recipes Banana Cream Pie Banana cream pie is a classic dessert, filled with an easy, creamy custard. Click here to see the recipe. Browse: Banana cream pie recipes Lemon Meringue Pie Because the filling of a lemon meringue pie doesn't cook for very long, you'll need to par-bake the crust, filled with pie weights or dried beans, before you add the filling. Click here to see the recipe. Browse: Lemon meringue pie recipes Coconut Cream Pie From-scratch coconut cream pie is always a hit. Toast some shredded coconut and sprinkle it on top for a nutty (and pretty!) touch. Click here to see the recipe. Browse: Coconut cream pie | 0 | 1,680 | foodanddrink |
Healthy Recipes Your Kids Can (Safely) Make Themselves Chicken Tacos With a little bit of planning and the help of a rotisserie chicken, your kids can make their own dinner. As long as your kids can reach the tortillas, shredded cheese, and containers of pre-cut vegetables (like lettuce or tomato) they'll be able to assemble their own soft tacos. To make chicken tacos, pull the meat from a rotisserie chicken (once it's cool enough to handle) and leave it with the other taco fixings. Browse: Chicken taco recipes Hummus Wraps Let your kids make their own lunch; they can spread hummus onto a tortilla with a spoon and then add pre-cut vegetables like carrots or cucumber before rolling up their super-healthy and fun-to-make meal. Browse: Wrap recipes Overnight Oats Breakfast is a breeze thanks to overnight oats. Give your kids a measuring scoop and have them add one scoop of rolled oats (don't use quick-cooking oats) to a resalable jar. Then, have them fill the scoop with milk (or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk) and add it to the jar as well. Their favorite toppings go in next (peanut butter, honey, sliced bananas, etc.) then the jar is sealed and stored in the refrigerator overnight. The next morning your oatmeal will be ready to eat no cooking required! Browse: Overnight oats recipes Open-Faced Sandwiches What could be easier than spreading flavored cream cheese, hummus, or goat cheese on a slice of bread and topping it with lunchmeat or fresh vegetables? Make it even more fun by leaving plastic, child-safe cookie cutters out; your kids can make fun shapes out of the bread, lunch meat, or sliced vegetables before assembling their sandwiches. Make: Breakfast Open-Faced Sandwiches Pasta Salad Next time you're making pasta for dinner, boil a little extra pasta and chop a few extra vegetables. Pack everything up in resalable containers and store them in the refrigerator. Then, when your kids are hungry, they can mix pasta and vegetables in a bowl with a small amount of Italian salad dressing for a quick, no-cook pasta salad. Browse: Pasta salad recipes Pita Bread Pizzas Whole-wheat pita and ricotta cheese make an excellent substitute for pizza dough, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella in this kid-friendly "pizza" recipe; your kids can top their pizzas with fruits or veggies and then eat them or ask for an adults help warming the pizza in an oven or toaster oven. Make: Pizza Pocket Salads Most kids aren't big salad-eaters, but if you encourage your children to use a variety of pre-cut vegetables (kids can tear lettuce by hand if you want to include it on their plate) and pre-cooked whole grains to create a picture on their plate, you'll find that they'll be more open to trying a plate full of produce. Browse: Crudite recipes | 0 | 1,681 | foodanddrink |
Did you know that exercisers who regularly lift weights injure their shoulders more often than any other part of the body? The complicated nature of the shoulder joint makes injuries in the area difficult to diagnose and treat. But the good news is that aside from following proper training techniques , you can use yoga to practice injury-prevention and decrease your risk for a shoulder injury. And if the injury prevention aspect isn't reason enough to supplement your exercise routine with yoga (especially these poses for your shoulders), then maybe the fact that yoga also provides a long list of other health and fitness benefits will help to further convince you. For instance, if you have weight loss goals, yoga is a great way not only to burn calories, but it can also help you to curb food cravings by strengthening your mind-body connection. Plus, yoga has the ability to reduced your cortisol levels (a hormone that is associated with stress and immune system suppression), improve your cognitive functions and lower your stress levels. Whatever your fitness goals may be, you can use the following shoulder-strengthening yoga exercises to help build strength and stability around the joint. 1. Downward Facing Dog to High Plank Start in downward facing dog . Keep your core tight and your hands and feet in place as you slowly roll forward through your shoulders to high plank position . Hold the plank for two to three breaths before reversing the movement and returning to down dog. Repeat for 10 to 15 reps. 2. Alternating Side Planks Start in high plank position. Keep your core tight as you slowly roll over to your right side, using your right arm for support. Hold the side plank for two to three breaths before returning to the high plank position and repeating the movement on your left side. Alternate between a right and left side plank for 10 to 15 reps. 3. Plank Walk-Ups Start in high plank position. Keep your core tight and your spine neutral as you slowly lower down onto your right forearm and then your left. Hold the forearm plank for one or two breaths before using your arms to "walk" back up to the high plank position, leading with your right arm. Repeat this sequence for 10 to 15 reps, alternating between leading with your right and left arm. 4. Downward Facing Dog to Forearm Downward Facing Dog Start in downward facing dog. Hold for two to three breaths before slowly lowering down to your forearms (see photo at top of this page). Hold here for two to three breaths before lifting back up to your palms for full downward facing dog. Repeat for 10 to 15 reps. 5. Alternating Forearm Side Planks Start in a forearm plank . Keep your core tight and your right forearm planted firmly on the ground as you slowly roll over to your right side, using your right arm for support. Hold the forearm side plank for two to three breaths before returning to the starting position and repeating the movement on your left side. Alternate between right and left forearm side planks for 10 to 15 reps. | 7 | 1,682 | health |
Just thinking about checking luggage and boarding lines during the holiday travel season is enough to summon a headache. Delays are inevitable. Mile-long lines are just part of the experience. And, on top of all the logistic hassles, being squeezed next to someone with bad breath is something you just can't plan for. Fortunately, there are ways to make the whole experience zen from the initial check-in all the way to the in-flight movie. Ahead, we found the most efficient bookings, ways to turn a layover into VIP me-time, and some hidden airport jewels. Think apps that will clue you in on secret swimming pools, free drinks, and plane yoga (yes, it's thing). Illustrated by Elliot Salazar. Hopper.com uses datasets and quantitative analysis to create a customized travel report just for you: the best airlines for your particular itinerary, the cheapest times to buy tickets, the best times to fly, and alternate, cheaper routes. Illustrated by Elliot Salazar. If you haven't been automatically offered TSA Pre-Check status or gone through the application process, which involves fingerprinting and a fee try using the My TSA app instead. You can speed up your time at security check by packing smart with the "Can I bring ___?" feature, and keep up to date with real-time checkpoint information as well as airport delays. Illustrated by Elliot Salazar. Once you have your itinerary set, download the iFly Pro app and do a little research about the place that due to delays, cancellations, and missed connections may temporarily become your home away from home. Learn about any airport services, like shopping and wi-fi, as well as more surprising features (swimming pools, art museums, and movie theaters) that will make even the longest layover bearable. Illustrated by Elliot Salazar. iFly Pro can also sniff out whether your airport has a dedicated space for yoga or meditation (San Francisco International and Dallas-Fort Worth are two that do). Then, take that om inside the cabin: the Airplane Yoga app features beginner to advanced poses you can practice even while silently hating on the passenger in front of you whose seat is fully reclined. Illustrated by Elliot Salazar. If your idea of meditation involves a stiff drink, check with your airline when you book about getting a day pass to their lounge or reserve in advance on LoungePass. PriorityPass offers different levels of membership for an annual fee, allowing you access to VIP lounges that have amenities like free magazines and even showers and beds. Illustrated by Elliot Salazar. If you're not a frequent traveler but like the idea of a drink before your flight (or a cocktail tasting course, if you miss your connection), the LoungeBuddy app directs you to airport lounges that are free to enter (or charge a one-time entrance fee), and ones that offer free drinks. Illustrated by Elliot Salazar. You may relish the leftovers Mom offers to pack for the flight home. But, thanks to the GateGuru's list of airport eateries and reviews, you can also find top-rated BBQ before you board. Illustrated by Elliot Salazar. Do you really want to be inhaling bathroom fumes on a redeye flight across the country? SeatGuru allows you to see where you might get extra legroom, your very own power port, or maybe an empty seat next to you. Illustrated by Elliot Salazar. ...Without a sleeping pill! Some airports have gyms, others, walking paths, and a select few even have hiking and fitness trails. Find out on AirportGyms, then get a workout in before you board it may lead to a less anxious, more sleep-inducing flight. | 2 | 1,683 | travel |
Louis van Gaal refused to put an exact date on when the results would turnaround at Manchester United. | 8 | 1,684 | video |
Recycling's great, but upcycling is both fun and productive! Baby food pouches may be slowly overtaking traditional glass jars when it comes to lil ones' pureed food, but that doesn't mean the ubiquitous jars aren't taking up precious space on mama's countertop. Before dumping them in the recycle bin, check out some interesting ways the jars can live a second life - your counter and the environment will thank you! Desk Organizer It's never easy to keep kids' crafting supplies organized, but with color-coded spaces for crayons and markers even little kids can help keep the supplies in order. Source: Monkey See, Monkey Do Pincushion What to do with all those buttons that come attached to your kids' clothes? Store them in baby food jars and use this tutorial to create a cute pincushion on top!Source: The Life of Jennifer Dawn Photo Jars Picture frames come in all shapes and sizes, so why not convert your jars into frames? Just add your favorite photo, turn it upside down, and voilà! Source: Photojojo Hanging Vases Baby food jars are the perfect size to display small flowers, like pansies, and this tutorial shows how easy it is to convert the jars into minivases.Source: Good Housekeeping Advent Calendar Advent calendars have never been quite so eco-friendly! This upcycled advent calendar uses baby food jars to hold lil surprises for the kids each day. Source: Craftaholics Anonymous Spice Jars After painting the lids with chalkboard paint and filling the jars with spices, baby food jars easily become part of a great-looking spice rack. Source: Frugal Decor Mom Lego Storage Jars Baby food jars can easily be converted into Lego mini figure heads with some spray paint, a black Sharpie marker, and some creativity.Source: obSEUSSed Party Favors For her twin boys' first birthday party, Mae Armstrong gathered up her own empty jars, filled them with treats, and topped them off with cute labels and fabric for perfectly-sized jars of sweets that guests could take home.Source: Mae Armstrong Hair-Band Holders When your lil one's hair bands, clips, and barrettes are getting out of control, use the baby food jars to organize things.Source: Maple Memories Crafthouse Bug-Catching Jars With the addition of some construction paper, a few pipe cleaners, and some googly eyes (or Oriental Trading's little bug kit), baby food jars are easily transformed into bug-catching jars for just $13. Colorful Shakers Babies love toys that make noise, so why not go basic and create a colorful rattle for them? All you need is some dyed rice and some clean baby food jars.Source: Modern Parents Messy Kids Fabric Tea Lights You can never have too many votives laying around the house, and by adding some beautiful fabric to the outside of the jar, those jars are instantly converted into beautiful candleholders.Source: Pretty Prudent Jar Oil Lamps Keep the night lit up for hours with oil lamps made out of baby food jars. The process couldn't be any easier. All you need is oil, a wick, and a jar cover to make it work!Source: Raised in Cotton Home Spa Gifts Plan to make some homemade spa treatments for your friends this holiday season? Baby food jars are the perfect size for packaging the treatments, and they look perfect with an added label and colored lid. Source: Domestic Charm Glass Chandelier Hanging chandeliers are a beautiful addition to the backyard barbecue. With these instructions, you can easily convert your empty baby food jars into a piece of backyard art. Source: Ecologue Play-Doh Holders Kids love playing with Play-Doh, and they love playing with multiple colors at once. Making several small batches in a rainbow of colors and placing them in the jars will keep them fresh.Source: LilyGene Terrariums Tots love studying nature. With these pint-sized terrariums, they can get up close and personal with plants and dirt. Source: Our Big Earth Paint Jars For arts and crafts projects, you can never have enough containers to house your paint. Baby food jars allow you to pour just the right amount, so tots don't waste an entire bottle when they inevitably mix the colors.Source: How We Montessori Snow Globes Snow globes always seem to invoke thoughts of Winter, but there's no reason they can't be used year round! Over on Design Mom, Gabrielle Blair has a fabulous (and easy-to-follow) tutorial for creating these pint-sized snow globes! Source: Design Mom Baby-Shower Crafts These baby shower babies, filled with sweet treats for guests to take home, a unique way to pay it forward once your baby food jars are empty!Source: New Life on a Homestead | 4 | 1,685 | lifestyle |
Breakouts are like annoying coworkers: Almost everyone has them, and it takes tons of effort to avoid them. But, maybe, life would be a bit easier if we could actually understand them. Since acne is the most common skin condition in the U.S., we're guessing you've had at least a run-in or two with the frustrating spots and you probably have some questions. So, we got some of the best dermatologists in the breakout biz to share the real facts, including the correct way to pop a pimple, the reason your butt breaks out, and what causes scars. Read on for some mighty useful acne info. Why don't all my breakouts look the same? Because they're not the same. There are two broad categories of acne: inflammatory and non-inflammatory. But, they do have some things in common. Blemishes have three basic causes: oil, bacteria, and skin cells, all of which clog pores, explains Neal Schultz, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai medical school in New York City. If you have more bacteria in your pores, you're prone to inflammatory acne. If you just have thick sebum or an excess of skin cells, then you have more non-inflammatory bumps. Non-inflammatory acne includes blackheads and whiteheads, also called comedones. Whiteheads are little white bumps, and blackheads look like tiny specks of dirt on your face. These don't feel red or sore, and don't change in size. Inflammatory acne includes papules and pustules. Both kinds are larger, painful red bumps, but pustules contain, you guessed it, pus. Cysts are technically inflammatory, but they belong in their own category. These are the largest blemishes, and extend far beneath the surface of the skin. Glands under the skin become inflamed and irritated, and fill with blood, which causes the painful bumps. What's in the bumps? This is where it gets even grosser. Your pores are lined with skin cells called follicle keratinocytes, says Richard Fried, MD, a dermatologist in Yardley, Pennsylvania. Some people tend to have stickier keratinocytes than others, and sometimes hormones cause the cells to clog up pores. When there's an excess of these sticky skin cells and sebum, they form a semi-solid plug. Those plugs are what fills whiteheads and blackheads. Whiteheads have a layer of skin, sealing the pore. But, blackheads are open and exposed to oxygen. So, when the debris in the pore is oxidized, it turns black, hence its name.Cysts, pustules, and papules are filled with blood, pus, and clear fluid called blood serum. "The reason inflammatory acne is swollen is because the body is enlisting your immune system to fight the irritation in your pores," Dr. Fried says. That immune response means the blood vessels dilate to bring white cells that can neutralize a foreign body. The added blood flow and presence of immune fluid causes swelling and soreness, he explains. The yellow pus is actually sebum, skin, and dead bacteria rising to the surface. Can I squeeze them? Any dermatologist or aesthetician will adamantly warn you to keep your hands off. But, any dermatologist or aesthetician who understands human nature will also give you some advice on safely squeezing a pimple."Don't squeeze a pimple that's not ready," says Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research for dermatology at Mount Sinai medical school. "If the center is white or yellow, then you can try to pop it."Dr. Zeichner says to treat the process like a surgical procedure, because it technically is, and clean your hands, clip your nails, and wash your face. Ideally, use two cotton swabs rather than your hands. Gently push down do NOT squeeze sideways. Squeezing pushes the pus and blood further down into the skin, which can cause the glands to burst and spread the infection. So, you end up with a larger zit that lasts even longer. Once you dislodge the pus, quit pushing. If blood or clear fluid comes out, the pimple isn't ready. Use light pressure and hold a clean tissue to your pimple until the blood stops. Here's an animated (meaning non-gross) video demonstrating the proper technique. "The urge to pop is a way to feel like you have more control over what's happening to you with acne," says Amy Wechsler, MD, a dermatologist and psychiatrist in New York City. "Most people just make it worse when they pop or pick." She counsels her patients to walk away from the mirror, and get rid of any magnifying mirror, rather than try to pop pimples. What really works if I have an emergency and need to shrink a zit? See your dermatologist for a cortisone shot, says Dennis Gross, MD, a dermatologist in New York City. "Your doctor can inject you with cortisone in a way that targets the inflammation and can reduce the size dramatically." Do you have a cyst that's lasted for two weeks or longer? You're at a standoff and could use some professional intervention. If making it to your doctor isn't an option, Dr. Zeichner says icing the cyst and applying topical hydrocortisone can help with the redness. Since cysts are so deep in the skin, using a spot treatment isn't likely to be very effective. Your best bet is to completely leave it alone, or you'll cause more irritation and make the cyst look even worse. Do I break out because I touch my face too much? That's complicated. The germs on your hands aren't the same germs that cause breakouts, but the various dirts and oils you touch may be a problem. "Think about all the things we touch in a day without thinking about it food, hair, doorknobs, pets," says Papri Sarkar, MD, a dermatologist in Boston. "You're always transferring something onto your face." "Most oil-based, or thick, greasy products can clog pores," Dr. Sarkar says. The oil closes the pore, she explains. "With the sealed-off pore and extra oil, the bacteria that cause breakouts have plenty of food and can multiply with abandon." She says pulling your hair away from your face when you sleep and looking for oil-free, silicone-free hair and skin products can help prevent more breakouts. And, no, you shouldn't touch your face! Anytime you disturb the oil glands and hair follicles, you're risking irritation and inflammation. Another common question about acne causes? Whether the foods you eat have caused your breakouts to get worse. That depends. If you polished off a pint of gelato, then yes. "One of the strongest links between what we eat and acne is glycemic index," says Whitney Bowe, MD, a dermatologist in Briarcliff Manor, New York. "Low-glycemic foods seem to have a beneficial effect on acne, while high-glycemic foods carbs and sugars cause a spike in blood sugar that leads to acne flares." There's also some research that suggests dairy products, especially skim milk, may play a role in breakouts. Dr. Bowe says research indicates that the high levels of whey protein and casein stimulate hormones that cause acne.The one exception to the dairy rule: yogurt, says Dr. Bowe. "Probiotics seem to have a role in controlling breakouts, so yogurt is great, as long as it's low-sugar." Eating healthy fats can also calm breakouts. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory benefits that can help with the chain reaction that causes acne inflammation, Dr. Bowe says. Why do I only have acne on my hairline? Either your hairstyle or your workouts are to blame. "Anything that touches or rubs the hair follicle, and prevents oil from reaching the surface, increases the chance of a clog," says Dr. Schultz. That means hats or headbands could be causing your breakouts. Repeated friction could also cause the follicles to narrow, which increases the odds of zits, he explains. Also, take a look at your hair products especially if you have bangs. Oil from your hair and any stylers could also be clogging your pores. Sweat could contribute, too. "Perspiration is salt in the wound and irritates hair follicles," Dr. Fried says. For someone with a SoulCycle habit, this could lead to an unfair side effect. "Working out on a bench or mat can also cause breakouts, because the sweat and oils are coming into direct contact with your skin." The fix is to wipe down any equipment your skin touches and wash your face with an alpha-hydroxy-acid (AHA) wash. Look for one with glycolic or salicylic acid. What's with the cysts on my chin, jaw, and neck? This is due to some bizarre hormonal trick, usually. "As we get older, acne tends to surface lower on the face or jawline," says Dr. Fried. But, you should also pay attention to where you're holding your phone. Too much friction there could also be clogging pores. For hormonal acne, the answer could be birth-control pills that help to balance testosterone levels. If your phone is the problem, switch to a headset and wash with an AHA cleanser. But, you don't want to be too aggressive with your acne-fighting routine. "Many people think that acne is an oil-quantity issue, when, in reality, it's an oil-quality issue," Dr. Gross says. "When acne occurs, the oil is too thick and waxy, so it becomes blocked and forms a plug." So, washing and scrubbing the surface isn't helping stop those cysts. In fact, he explains that adult acne is often linked to dry skin using aggressively harsh treatments will only cause more dryness and dead skin to clog pores. Why is my butt breaking out? "Technically, the spots some people develop on their buttocks aren't acne," Dr. Sarkar says. "It's called folliculitis and is an inflammation of the hair follicles." Sometimes, it's caused by an infection, or it could be a result of injury or irritation.The likely culprit is your workout clothes. "Tight clothing and sweat can occlude pores, so that the dead skin cells and oil become trapped and cause painful inflammation," says Dr. Sarkar. Change out of your gym clothes as soon as possible and use an AHA body wash or benzoyl peroxide to help calm the irritation. What causes scars? In a word, inflammation. When the immune system senses a threat, it sends blood and T-cells to attack the intruder. But, that response causes inflammation that damages surrounding tissue. Acne scars happen because the immune-system response is so severe that the body creates a fibrous wall of collagen around the follicle to prevent the rest of the skin from infection, Dr. Fried says. That collagen fiber tugs at the follicles surrounding it and creates a depression. Unfortunately, there's not much you can do once these scars are formed. But, there are laser and surgical methods to help minimize them.The brown spots that remain after a breakout heals are also due to inflammation. The pigment is a response to the injury of a breakout, Dr. Schultz says. Much like your skin tans after sun exposure, it also sends melanin to the site of a pimple to help defend your skin from damage. The marks usually fade over time, but ingredients like vitamin C, retinoids, and hydroquinone can help speed up the process. Am I cursed to have acne forever? No. "Acne is 100% controllable," Dr. Schultz says. "There's no reason in 2014 that anyone has to suffer from acne." Dermatologists have an arsenal of options to treat your acne, including antibiotics, topical retinoids, birth-control pills, and isotretinoin, also known as Accutane. The drug has a scary reputation, and has serious potential side effects (liver damage, birth defects, depression), but it's also one of the most effective options for anyone with severe, cystic acne. "Isotretinoin is one of the few miracle drugs of the 20th century," Dr. Schultz says.Regardless of the method you choose, all the experts we spoke to said that with a little intervention, you can bring acne under control. | 4 | 1,686 | lifestyle |
Top 5 Chevrolet Camaro Show Cars at the 2014 SEMA Show Top Camaros at 2014 SEMA Show As expected, there was a sea of Chevrolet Camaros at the 2014 SEMA Show. While we saw plenty of current and first-gen models, the second-generation Camaro appeared to be well represented, more so than in the past. In fact, two "split bumper" Camaros are featured in this Camaro highlights feature, as well as a current-gen Camaro SS packed with lots of Z/28 goodies and stuff. 1969 Chevrolet Camaro by Chris Holstrom Concepts This white 1969 Camaro is simply well-done. The metal work is flawless -- the body panels, interior toggle switches, air vents, and engine bay, which houses an 850-hp supercharged LS V-8, are all top-notch work. With all that power, the super-wide 335-width tires are a smart idea, as is the beefy Baer brake setup. Chevrolet "Ultimate Track" Camaro SS Earlier this year, Chevrolet confirmed it would open up a few Z/28 goodies to its parts catalog and what a wonder move that was. Chevy invited us to a fun pre-SEMA track day in the "Ultimate Track" Camaro SS, which was loaded with lots of Z/28 stuff. It sports the Z/28's fancy suspension with the DSSV dampers, aero kit, helical differential, and exhaust system. It also gets a few 1LE items (wheels and strut tower brace), along with the ZL1's brake system. Finally, the LS3 V-8 was upgraded with new camshafts and cylinder heads, boosting power to 456 hp, 30 more than stock. The result is an extremely capable track car that is planted and rotates nicely through the corners thanks to that fantastic differential. 1969 Chevrolet Camaro "Hellfire" This Camaro is one of the entrants for the Optima Ultimate Street Car Invitational and it seemed to be getting most of the attention. The red and black color scheme looks menacing and the Lingenfelter-tuned, supercharged eight-cylinder is pumping out 953 hp and 970 lb-ft of torque. 1970 Chevrolet Camaro Another show-stopper. The Ron Francis booth featured this 1970 split-bumper Camaro with a meticulous dark blue and silver paint job and tasteful chrome exterior bits. The interior looks great, too, with nice bolstered seats and leather dash with contrast stitching. This Camaro makes around 700 hp from its 6.2-liter, supercharged LSA V-8, though I'm torn about that engine cover. 1970 Chevrolet Camaro "Rampage" This is a completely different take on the 1970 Camaro, and we have to say we like the results. The wide-body panels are all carbon fiber and the chassis features a fancy cantilevered suspension setup. The LS7 is tuned to produce 750 hp and its low stance and gold Jongbloed racing wheels look fantastic. In fact, as part of the judging panel for the Gran Turismo Awards, we picked the "Rampage" Camaro as the Best Domestic Car. There were five categories total (Best Asian Import Car, Best Truck, Best Hot Rod, and Best European Car) and game creator Kazunori Yamauchi was tasked with crowning the Best In Show from the bunch. His choice? The "Rampage" Camaro! Congrats to builder Jeremy Gerber and his crew from the Roadster Shop for the big win. | 9 | 1,687 | autos |
Abandoned places in China Ghost towns in China In a bid to attract foreign investors, the country has built replica towns and monuments. Nonetheless, these townships never quite took off. Here's a look at some striking pictures from these Chinese ghost towns. Tianducheng Developed by by Zhejiang Guangsha Co. Ltd, Tianducheng is among the most prominent ghost towns in China. Tianducheng (Pictured) A supermarket in Tianducheng ghost town, China. Tianducheng Having a capacity to accommodate ten thousand people, Tianducheng is inhabited by around 2000 people. (Pictured) Workers showering at a construction site in Tianducheng. Tianducheng Tianducheng was built as a knock-off on Paris and features a 108-meter scaled-replica of the famous Eiffel Tower. Tianducheng An aerial view of the ghost town Tianducheng, located on the outskirts of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. Ordos A prime example of China's real estate bubble, Ordos, located 30 km south of Chinese city Dongsheng, is replete with residential apartments and duplex-styled homes but sparsely populated. Ordos The Ordos ghost town also includes large office towers, administrative centres, schools, playing fields and theatres but misses the most important part people. Ordos Built in 2004, Ordos has a capacity of housing around a million people but only around 30,000 live in this Chinese ghost town. Ordos (Pictured) The unopened Ordos Opera House in one of China's largest ghost towns. Ordos According to BBC, most of the buildings in Ordos are empty or unfinished and apartment blocks are full of unsold flats. Caofeidian Caofeidian, according to The Guardian, was said to be "the world's first fully realised eco-city" when it was being built in early 2000s. However, it remains to be deserted and several projects have been stopped due to rising cost and lack of government support. Caofeidian The Guardian reported that around US$ 100 billion has been invested in the development of Caofeidian, mainly through huge bank loans. Caofeidian (Pictured) A mall in Caofeidian, modelled on a traditional Italian city. However, despite the presence of immense infrastructure, businesses have not moved in yet. Caofeidian The expansion of Caofeidian has been facilitated through the use of land reclaimed from the sea. A decade after its inception, this ghost town is inhabited by only a few thousand people, much lesser than its actually capacity of a million. Caofeidian (Pictured) Locals fishing for crabs with large construction sites idle in the background. | 2 | 1,688 | travel |
The 10 Hottest Wheels at the 2014 SEMA Show Top Wheels of 2014 SEMA Show They say shoes can make or break an outfit. The same can probably be said of wheels when it comes to cars, and the 2014 Specialty Equipment Market Association show had its share of outstanding and questionable wheel choices. The list below showcases how standout cars such as a classic 1971 Corvette and an exotic Porsche 918 Spyder stood out even more thanks to great sets of wheels. More from the 2014 SEMA Show: Best of Show: Hottest 2014 SEMA Show Cars Craziest Cars: The Wildest 2014 SEMA Show Cars Ford Mustangs at the 2014 SEMA Show Top 5 Chevrolet Camaro Show Cars at the 2014 SEMA Show 1971 Chevrolet Corvette by Jimmie Johnson This Corvette is packed with modern hardware, including its 6.2-liter LT1 V-8, adjustable coil-overs, and brakes sourced from the C6 Corvette Z06. The exterior, however, was refreshingly retro right down to the 18-inch wheels inspired by the rally-style set offered on the original car. Rocket Bunny Acura NSX A 1992 Acura NSX rolled into SEMA with a sharp Rocket Bunny treatment. In addition to the wide body, the metallic blue NSX sports Rocket Bunny wheels by 6666 Customs (17 x 10.5-inch in the rear, 17 x 9.5-inch up front) wrapped with Nitto NT05 rubbers. "Sliced" Dodge Charger Our parent company, The Enthusiast Network, had a big presence at the 2014 SEMA Show with a large booth in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. One of the cars on display was this "Sliced" Charger built by the folks at the Roadster Shop. They designed these gorgeous wheels, which were machined by Greening Auto Company. Porsche 918 Spyder at HRE Wheels The HRE Wheels booth was fairly popular thanks to a Porsche 918 Spyder wearing two of its wheel designs. The driver's side was sporting HRE P101 monoblocks, though my favorite were the 501 monoblocks featured on the passenger side. 1965 Ford Mustang "Hoonicorn" Ken Block will demolish Gymkhana 7 in this all-wheel-drive Mustang dubbed the "Hoonicorn." This beast of a Mustang looks absolutely solid, and the 18-inch, three-piece forged wheels from fifteen52 (model Tarmac R40) stand out with a copper finish. Rauh-Welt Begriff Porsche 911 This RWB-built 993-series 911 grabbed a lot of attention at SEMA, and it's easy to see why. The wide fenders are eye-catching, and the blacked-out wheels, which come from iForged, provide a nice contrast to the blue paint job. Insta-Built 2015 Lexus RC F by VIP Auto Salon The Lexus RC F is proving to be a very capable car on the track, but it can also be a stylish show car. The VIP Auto Salon showed off its version of a RC F with wild Oracle Seafoam paint, but the Vossen VPS forged wheels are relatively tame and look pretty good on the coupe. These are 20-inchers, but 18s or 19s would probably look just as good. BMW M4 "GTRS4" by Vorsteiner Vorsteiner was at SEMA and unveiled its wide-body "GTRS4" BMW M4. The entire look is smooth and clean, from the wide fenders (no Rocket Bunny-style bolts here, folks) to the forged, three-piece GTRS4 wheels. If the simple five-spoke design doesn't impress you, then maybe its dimensions will: 20x 10.5-inch up front, while the back wheels are 13.5-inches wide to fit 275 and 345-width rubbers, respectively. 1970 Chevrolet Camaro "Rampage" The folks at Roadster Shop had another impressive build at SEMA with this "Rampage" Camaro, which was on display at the GoPro booth. Complementing this Camaro's carbon-fiber body were wheels by Jonbloed (18 x 12 front and rear) with a gold finish. Lexus RC 350 F Sport by Gordon Ting/Beyond Marketing This RC 350 F looks ready for the track, and the custom Enkei 6666 wheels designed by TRA-Kyoto definitely look racy. The silver-finished, 19-inch wheels are wrapped with Toyo 888 tires. | 9 | 1,689 | autos |
Ah, the ponytail. Remember when it was your cop-out look for days when you just didn't want to deal with your hair? Now more than ever, though, ponytails are transitioning from frumpy to fantastic. The possibilities of how to style this go-to updo are just about endless. See 20 ways to take your ponytails to even greater heights. Rocker Chic Slick back your hair and pile it high on your head, à la AnnaLynne McCord. Finish by wrapping a piece of hair around the elastic for a more polished look. Hello, Volume Kinks and curls abound in Jennifer Lopez's half-up ponytail. To get the look, scrunch your hair with some mousse before you pull it high on your head for added texture. Flair For the Dramatic Looking to break away from the ho-hum ponytail style? Pull a Kat Graham and flip your hair forward. A couple of bobby pins will keep it all in place. Flip Out Zooey Deschanel's bangs make her ponytail cute, but what really sets it apart are the curls and flips. Pump up an otherwise ordinary ponytail by simply curling the ends in the back. Slicked to the Side Leave it to Coco Rocha to pull off this notoriously difficult style with ease. To give yourself added edge, pair your gelled-down, side-parted ponytail with a sexy red lip look and heavily contoured eyes. Messy and Sexy Nina Dobrev pulled off the mussed-up bedhead ponytail with ease. Learn how to get the exact look with tips from the stylist who created it. Add a Chapeau Take a page from Diane Kruger's book and pair your side ponytail with a sleek hat. This is perfect for days you don't want to commit to a full-on style but still want to look put-together. Twisted and Toussled Emmy Rossum swept her cascading curls off to the side: the perfect go-to when you want a blend of polished yet not-too-serious. Middle of the Road Give your typical ponytail a sleek makeover like Erin Wasson's. Keep the top tight against your head, tie the ponytail in the middle, and then straighten the hanging hair to perfection. Bump It Jessica Biel took her ponytail to new heights by adding a touch of volume. To nab this retro look, tease the top section of your hair before smoothing it back into your ponytail updo. To Boldly Go . . . A ponytail can be the optimal way to showcase a bold makeup look. Take Tika Sumpter, for instance, who used her slicked-back style to accentuate her big, full eyebrows, one of the breakout looks for Fall. Romantic Curls For a more formal spin on your ponytail, do as Kate Beckinsale does. Tease your hair at the crown, keep a few pieces of hair tucked behind your ears, and curl your loose strands with a wide-barrel iron. Short and Spunky Think you can't pull off a ponytail because of your cropped style? Think again. Olivia Munn shows that teeny ponytails can still be stylish. Casual and Soft Selma Blair pulls off the "I just threw my hair up" look with ease. To add instant polish, simply spritz on a shine serum for extra glow. Gamine Sweet Bella Thorne looks adorable with an undone side ponytail. Re-create the coiffure by using a half-inch curling iron to wave your strands, brushing them out for a more casual look. Do the Twist Growing out your bangs? Dianna Agron's style is perfect for you, then. Roll, twist, and pin your fringe in the front, and don't worry if a couple wispy strands fall free. Vintage Flair Eva Longoria channeled her inner '50s gal with this retro-inspired ponytail. To copy her vintage-y look, tease your roots for volume, then spritz your hands with hair spray and smooth them over your bouffant to keep flyaways at bay. Middle of the Road A middle part is an unexpected take on the typical ponytail, and Malin Akerman shows how to keep it classy. High and Dry For the long-haired ladies of the world, Jessica Stam shows how to pull off an Elvira-esque ponytail. Slick your hair as high on your head as possible, keep it pin-straight, and allow it to fan around the rest of your head. Pretty Angelic If you have a bold makeup look you want to show off (like Mandy Moore's bright pink lipstick), then keep your ponytail simply swept. And for added flair, twist a larger section of hair around the base of the updo for even more height. | 4 | 1,690 | lifestyle |
Best Mutual Funds for Aggressive Investors 10 Best Funds for Aggressive Investors Think your portfolio is too tame? Does it mostly contain blue chips and electric utility stocks and not enough racy tech and biotech stocks? Maybe it's time to boost your level of aggression in search of bigger returns, both over the next year and over the long term. Check out our picks below they're our 10 favorite stock mutual funds for aggressive investors. In truth, these funds are nowhere near as aggressive as you might find. You won't find any funds that try to triple the return of a semiconductor-stock index or focus on small Indian companies or seek to bet on the price of silver falling. Rather, the ten funds six of which are members of the Kiplinger 25, the list of our favorite no-load funds focus on various corners of the stock world, from plain-vanilla small-company stocks to health care stocks to stocks in developing countries. They may not deliver the thrills of triple-leverage sector funds, but all offer potentially higher returns without taking extraordinary risks. Akre Focus Three-year annualized return: 21.3%Annual expense ratio: 1.35%Minimum initial investment: $2,000Biggest holdings: American Tower, Moody's, Markel, Colfax and MasterCardManagers Charles Akre, John Neff and Tom Saberhagen try to find what they call "compounding machines." Firms with strong balance sheets and businesses that offer an outstanding return on investment are just a start. Neff says that what he and his colleagues really want are what they call "bottleneck businesses" companies with a durable competitive advantage, such as Apple, Moody's and MasterCard. The managers also prefer executives who reinvest capital rather than pay dividends. "Dividends are the result of a successful business, but they are not essential to compounding growth," says Saberhagen. "Reinvestment is critical to compounding to grow earnings upon earnings and to do so consistently over time." That's one of the reasons the managers like Danaher, an industrial conglomerate that was built from a string of smartly executed acquisitions.Akre Focus (AKREX), which is a member of the Kiplinger 25, launched in late 2009. Since then, it has returned 18.4% annualized, beating Standard & Poor's 500-stock index by an average of 2.5 percentage points per year. Baron Small Cap Three-year annualized return: 17.1%Annual expense ratio: 1.31%Minimum initial investment: $2,000Biggest holdings: SBA Communications, TransDigm Group, Gartner, FleetCor Technologies, Waste ConnectionsCliff Greenberg has achieved impressive results at Baron Small Cap (BSCFX), which he has run since its 1997 launch. The fund's 10.1% annualized return since inception beats the Russell 2000 small-company index by an average of 3.0 percentage points per year. A $10,000 investment in the fund at the beginning would be worth more than $50,000 today; that's $20,000 more than if you had invested in a fund that tracks the Russell 2000.Baron Small Cap, another Kip 25 member, focuses on growing companies with market capitalizations of $2.5 billion and stocks trading at a discount to what Greenberg thinks a company is worth. Unlike many other small-cap growth managers, however, he tends to hold on to winners. The fund's 20% annual turnover ratio is considerably lower than the 76% average turnover for the typical small-company fund. (A 20% turnover implies an average holding period of five years; a 76% ratio, less than 1.5 years.) Two of Greenberg's top holdings, wireless tower operator SBA Communications and TransDigm Group, a maker of aircraft parts, have been in the fund since 2004 and 2006, respectively. Fidelity Select Biotechnology Three-year annualized return: 45.1%Annual expense ratio: 0.76%Minimum initial investment: $2,500Biggest holdings: Gilead Sciences, Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Celgene, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Alexion PharmaceuticalsManagers of Fidelity Select sector funds can rotate as often as every two years. But Rajiv Kaul has managed Fidelity Select Biotechnology (FBIOX) since 2005. Since then, the fund has returned 18.0% annualized. That beats the S&P 500 by an average of 10 percentage points per year, and the S&P 1500 Health Care index by an average of nearly 6.5 points per year. Before he buys a stock, Kaul examines each company's drug pipeline, the market size of each potential medication, and its valuation relative to other opportunities. In the end, the fund's 200-odd holdings land in one of four themes: long-term winners with strong pipelines of new drugs, companies that are staging a turnaround, firms with breakthrough innovations, and firms that are in the early stages of testing a promising treatment. It helps to have abs of steel to invest in this fund: Over the past year, the fund has been four times more volatile than the S&P 500. But investors have been well rewarded for the extra risk; the fund returned 43.5%, well ahead of the 18.7% return of the S&P. Fidelity New Millennium Three-year annualized return: 19.2%Annual expense ratio: 0.87%Minimum initial investment: $2,500Biggest holdings: Microsoft, Chevron, General Electric, Johnson & Johnson, Wells FargoManager John Roth takes advantage of the fund's flexibility, which allows him to invest in companies of any size. Fidelity New Millennium (FMILX), another member of the Kip 25, holds shares of older, established companies (such as International Business Machines), newbies (Tesla Motors) and outfits on the rebound (JPMorgan Chase). Roth has a unique background that fits well with this go-anywhere fund. Since he joined Fidelity in 1999, he has managed several sector funds, including Select Chemicals, Utilities, Consumer Discretionary and Multimedia. Such varied experience means he's analyzed all sorts of companies, including those that are sensitive to the direction of the overall economy and those that tend to grow steadily regardless of the economic environment. He puts all of this knowledge to work at New Millennium and gets good results. Since becoming New Millennium's manager in July 2006, the fund has returned 9.4% annualized, an average of 1.4 percentage points per year more than the return of the S&P 500. Harding Loevner Emerging Markets Advisor Three-year annualized return: 7.0%Annual expense ratio: 1.47%Minimum initial investment: $5,000Biggest holdings: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, Samsung Electronics, AIA Group, SABMiller, Aspen PharmacareHarding Loevner Emerging Markets (HLEMX), a Kip 25 member, is one of the few emerging-markets stock funds to have consistently outpaced the MSCI Emerging Markets benchmark. The fund's four leaders top managers Rusty Johnson and Craig Shaw, and co-managers Scott Crawshaw and Richard Schmidt don't make bets on individual countries. Rather, they fill the fund company by company, looking for growing, high-quality firms with little debt and steady-to-improving profit margins. With just 79 stocks, the managers don't have exposure to every emerging nation. Greece, for instance, is a no-show in their fund. "We struggle to find investment candidates in Greece," the managers said in a recent report. South Africa, on the other hand, is "target rich." The fund has 6% of its assets invested there, in six stocks. Its biggest South African holding, Aspen Pharmacare, a maker of drugs and nutritional products, has notched a 30.4% gain over the past 12 months. The fund's biggest country weightings are China and Hong Kong (15.3% of assets), India (10.4%) and Taiwan (9.2%). Homestead Small Company Stock Three-year annualized return: 19.9%Annual expense ratio: 0.91%Minimum initial investment: $500Biggest holdings: iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF, iShares Russell 2000 Value ETF, Knight Transportation, Encore Capital Group, Werner EnterprisesIt's been a tough year for small-company stocks and funds that invest in them. But over the past 12 months, Homestead Small Company Stock (HSCSX), a member of the Kip 25, has outpaced the Russell 2000 small-company index by nearly one percentage point. Homestead's quartet of managers Mark Ashton, Prabha Carpenter, Peter Morris and Stuart Teach hunt for out-of-favor stocks whose businesses are poised to turn around. That kind of process typically takes patience, and the managers show it with their long-term buy-and-hold strategy: In recent years, Small Company Stock's average annual turnover ratio has been about 1%, which means that the fund holds stocks for decades. The typical small-company fund, by contrast, has an average turnover ratio of 76%, suggesting an average holding period of just a bit more than one year. Matthews Asian Growth & Income Three-year annualized return: 9.5%Annual expense ratio: 1.08%Minimum initial investment: $2,500Biggest holdings: AIA Group, Taiwan Semiconductor, Jardine Matheson Holdings, Singapore Technologies Engineering, United Overseas BankMatthews Asian Growth & Income (MACSX) takes some of the edge off investing in a go-go growth region by focusing on dividend-paying stocks (about 84% of assets at last report), preferred stocks (4% of assets) and convertible securities (9%). Convertibles are hybrid securities (they can be bonds or preferred stocks) that let you convert your holdings into the common stock of the issuing company at a preset price. The mix, say managers Robert Horrocks and Kenneth Lowe, means fewer bumps than the typical fund that invests in Asia and more upside potential. Over the past three years, Asian Growth & Income, a member of the Kiplinger 25, has been about 25% less volatile than its peers, and yet it has outpaced the typical Pacific fund by an average of 1.1 percentage points per year. Most of the fund's assets are invested in the region's bigger economies, such as China/Hong Kong (30%), Singapore (16%) and South Korea (10%). It also holds securities in a smattering of less-advanced nations, including Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines. Primecap Odyssey Growth Three-year annualized return: 21.4%Annual expense ratio: 0.65%Minimum initial investment: $2,000Biggest holdings: Amgen, Roche Holding, Seattle Genetics, Biogen Idec, Eli LillyThe publicity-shy managers of Primecap Odyssey Growth (POGRX) let their performance do the talking. Their shop, Primecap Management, in Pasadena, Calif., features some of the best stock pickers in the business.The foursome Mohsin Ansari, Joel Fried, Theo Kolokotrones and Alfred Mordecai look for out-of-favor growing companies that have a clear catalyst for growth that will propel the stock upward over the next three to five years. The process means they buy when others are selling, and then they wait. Odyssey Growth has a turnover ratio of 10%, which implies a typical holding period of 10 years. Indeed, 28 of the fund's 100 holdings have been in the portfolio since it launched in late 2004, including some top holdings such as biotech biggie Amgen and Swiss drugmaker Roche Holdings. The fund is heavy on health care and technology stocks, which account for 70% of the fund's assets. Two of the most recent additions are Google and the Chinese e-commerce Web site Alibaba Group Holdings. T. Rowe Price Global Technology Three-year annualized return: 23.5%Annual expense ratio: 0.95%Minimum initial investment: $2,500Biggest holdings: Alibaba Group Holding, Amazon.com, Discovery Communications, Google, Liberty GlobalJoshua Spencer has only been manager of T. Rowe Price Global Technology (PRGTX) since mid 2012, but he's been a technology stock analyst at Price since 2004. In the two years-plus since he stepped in, the fund, which focuses on leading global tech firms, has returned an annualized 31.4%, which beats the MSCI ACWI/Information Technology index by an average of 10.5 percentage points per year. The fund's global mandate means Spencer is free to roam the world looking for opportunity, with a goal of investing 30% of the fund's assets overseas. At last report, about 63% of assets were in U.S. companies, 13% in China and 11 % in the U.K.Spencer recently picked up shares of Qunar Cayman Islands, an online travel company that operates in China. In a recent report, Spencer called Qunar "the Priceline of China" (all the more fitting because Priceline is barred from operating there). The fund holds 53 stocks, including Priceline. Vanguard Health Care Three-year annualized return: 28.1%Annual expense ratio: 0.35%Minimum initial investment: $3,000Biggest holdings: Actavis, Merck, Bristol-Myers Squibb, UnitedHealth Group, AstraZenecaVanguard Health Care (VGHCX) is the Grand Pooh-Bah of health care sector funds. Not only is it the biggest, it also charges the least of any health care mutual fund (exchange-traded funds tend to cost less). What's more, even as Vanguard Health outpaced 60% of its peers over the past decade, it managed to do so with less volatility than any other health fund.Manager Jean Hynes focuses on medical innovators and firms that will benefit from the changing U.S. health care system. Companies at the forefront of cancer treatments, including AstraZeneca, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Incyte, Merck and Roche, have helped the fund's returns in recent years. Hynes, who works for Wellington Management, in Boston, also believes the new health care system will boost managed-care organizations, such as UnitedHealth and Aetna, and drugstore chains, such as CVS and Walgreens, which will benefit from higher sales as more Americans sign up for health insurance. Hynes has been a manager of the fund since 2008, but she has been its sole manager only since 2013. That's when co-manager Ed Owens, who had been with the fund since it launched in 1984, retired. In her first (nearly) two years at the helm, Hynes has posted a cumulative 78% return, 18 percentage points ahead of the fund's benchmark, the MSCI ACWI/Health Care index. | 3 | 1,691 | finance |
We've all heard about the bounty of benefits a heaping helping of kale has to offer our stomachs and taste buds, but actually putting the dark, leafy green on your plate is a whole different story. That's where we come in! Once you've learned how to prep kale hassle-free, try one of these 27 recipes. - Additional reporting by Lizzie Fuhr Photos: Anna Monette Roberts, Nicole Perry, Camilla Salem, Fresh Tart, Susannah Chen Italian Sausage, White Bean, and Kale Soup Cozy up with a bowl of this classic Italian sausage, white bean, and kale soup . Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Kale soup recipes Cheesy Kale Chips If a bag of Kale Krunch's Quite Cheezy kale chips keeps winding up in your shopping cart, take matters into your own hands with this homemade take on this snack that's only decadent in flavor. Photo: Anna Monette Roberts Browse: Kale chip recipes Kale Caesar Salad Add extra bite to your caesar salad by swapping the usual romaine leaves for toothsome, torn-up kale. Photo: Nicole Perry Make: Kale Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken Wrap Leftover Greens and Grains Bowl Give leftover greens (like kale) and grains a second life by adding teriyaki sauce, a soft boiled egg, and Vietnamese-inspired quick pickled carrots and daikon to the mix. Source: Alexandra's Kitchen Browse: Rice bowl recipes Kale, Cantaloupe, and Ginger Smoothie Smoothies make for the perfect snack or even meal; they're fast, filling, and full of whatever fruits and veggies sound good to you. Go green with a kale, cantaloupe, and ginger smoothie round it off with a squeezed lemon for extra zest. Photo: Anna Monette Roberts Browse: Smoothie recipes Brussels Sprout, Lentil, and Kale Salad This gloriously green salad is brightened by clementine segments, dried cranberries, and a zippy honey-mustard dressing. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Kale salad recipes Kale and Burrata Bruschetta Creamy burrata and garlicky sautéed kale combine for a vegetarian-friendly appetizer equally at home as a weeknight nibble as it is at a cocktail party. Photo: Camilla Salem Browse: Burrata recipes Kale and Sweet Potato Chips Savory kale and nutty sweet potatoes bake up into crisp, addictive chips that pair perfectly together. Photo: Anna Monette Roberts Make: Homemade BBQ Sweet Potato Chips Brussels Sprouts and Kale Salad With Candied Pancetta and Blue Cheese A trio of greens brussels sprouts, kale, and Swiss chard provide a hearty base for a smattering of toppings , including candied pancetta, gorgonzola, and pear. Source: Cooking for Keeps Browse: Brussels sprouts recipes Linguine With Kale and Chickpeas This fast and easy linguine main is chock-full of hearty greens and beans and bolstered by garlic and crushed red pepper. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Pasta recipes with kale Miso-Glazed Kale and Shiitakes With a Poached Egg For a big plate of greens that doesn't skimp on flavor, try miso-glazed kale with shiitake mushrooms , and top it all off with a poached egg. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Recipes featuring miso Shredded Brussels Sprouts, Kale, and Kumquat Salad With its many components (coins of kumquat, shredded kale and brussels sprouts, tart dried cherries, and soy-sauce-glazed pepitas), this salad may seem like more effort than it's worth. Thankfully, its phenomenal flavor and staying power (leftovers make a great brown bag lunch) more than make up for time expended. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Recipes with kumquat Spicy Miso Kale Chips Salty-savory miso and a sprinkle of shichimi togarashi (Japanese seven-spice powder) dress up already-irresistible kale chips for a virtuous snack you'll devour with vigor. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Kale chip recipes Napa Valley Grille's Kale Chopped Salad This chopped kale salad offsets a tart lemon parmesan vinaigrette with plump golden raisins and hearty, mellow quinoa. Browse: Chopped salad recipes Steamed Kale Steamed kale takes a mere five minutes to cook and is a blank-slate side practically begging to be dressed up with whatever flavors you're craving. Our current fix: a splash of fish sauce, lime juice, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an Asian-inspired twist. Photo: Anna Monette Roberts Browse: Recipes with red pepper flakes Chicken Caesar Mason Jar Kale Salad Avoid sad desk lunches by packing this kale caesar salad with chicken and avocado in your work bag. Photo: Jenny Sugar Make: Guacamole Mason Jar Salad Mochi Squares Stuffed With Sesame Kale Mix up your weeknight dinner repertoire with this fast and easy vegan recipe that stuffs pillowy pockets of mochi (no, not the sweet type ) with greens and mushrooms dressed in a bold glaze. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Yakimochi/Grilled Mochi Lemony Kale Salad With Feta We're not sure what's better about this pine nut and feta kale salad : its leftover-friendly nature (like many kale salads, it can handle, and arguably improves with, an overnight sit in the fridge) or its bold flavors and ease of preparation. Either way, it's more than worthy of an inclusion in your salad repertoire. Source: Fresh Tart Browse: Salads with feta Slow-Cooked Kale, Fennel, and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Sauce It doesn't get much simpler than this slow-cooker kale, fennel, and sun-dried tomato pasta sauce . Simply add the vegetables, some garlic, and broth to the crockpot; set it; and forget it. Source: America's Test Kitchen Browse: Recipes with sun-dried tomatoes Salt and Vinegar Kale Chips Like their deep-fried potato cousins, salt and vinegar kale chips are crisp, salty, sour, and dangerously addictive. Photo: Nicole Perry Make: "Salt and Vinegar" Grilled Potato Colcannon For a lighter take on mashed potatoes, try colcannon , an Irish specialty that combines cabbage (or in this case, kale), bacon, butter, and potatoes. Photo: Anna Monette Roberts Browse: Colcannon recipes Hot Cheetos Kale Salad Think kale and Hot Cheetos don't mix? In most cases, you're right, but when sliced apple and walnuts come to the party , it's a surprisingly satisfying combination. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Spicy recipes Chickpea and Kale Soup With Garlic Tortilla Triangles Chickpeas, kale, noodles, carrots, and garlic tortilla triangles add a variety of textures and flavors to this brothy soup . Source: Top With Cinnamon Browse: Recipes with chickpeas Chicken and Kale Salad With Lemon-Cumin Vinaigrette For a taste of one of our editor's go-to lunch spots, try this restaurant-inspired composed salad that combines kale, quinoa, avocado, and more with a zesty lemon-cumin vinaigrette. Photo: Susannah Chen Browse: Recipes featuring cumin Spicy Garlic Kale With Poached Eggs Too tired to cook? You may reconsider when you realize just how fast and easy this spicy and satisfying dinner is. (You might even have all the ingredients on hand no grocery store run needed.)Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Poached egg recipes Shredded Kale and Brussels Sprouts Salad A constant fixture on our tables, this ribboned kale and brussels sprouts salad is heartier than most, mighty delicious, and highly adaptable (just stick to some sort of tart fruit and salty nut combination). Take a stab at it whether you have all of the ingredients stocked or not! Photo: Susannah Chen Make: Brussels Sprout, Sweet Lime & Avocado Salad Maple Bacon Kale Chips Kale chips never tasted as naughty (or nice) as these maple bacon crisps that are at once salty, savory, and sweet. Photo: Nicole Perry Browse: Recipes featuring maple and bacon | 0 | 1,692 | foodanddrink |
Nothing solidifies Winter like a great coat - and even though some cities are refusing to cool off this year (ahem, Los Angeles), we're not letting that get in the way of our cold-weather outerwear. We headed over to Nordstrom at The Grove to show you the three coat styles you need in your arsenal right now. Shop the looks below! On Allison: DVF top, Tibi shorts; look 1: Trina Turk coat, Theory sweater and pants, Saint Laurent loafers, Loeffler Randall bag; look 2: Burberry vest, Tibi top, Rag and Bone pants, Charlotte Olympica flats, Stella McCartney bag; look 3: Veda jacket, Tamara Mellon top, T by Alexander Wang skirt, Vince shoes, Loeffler Randall bag | 4 | 1,693 | lifestyle |
TUESDAY, Nov. 11, 2014 (HealthDay News) -- Dr. Craig Spencer, the last patient hospitalized for Ebola in the United States, left Bellevue Hospital in New York City Tuesday and is now free of the virus, his doctors say. "Today I am healthy and no longer infectious," Spencer said at a morning news conference. "My early detection, reporting and now recovery from Ebola speaks to the effectiveness of protocols that are in place for health staff returning from West Africa." Spencer, 33, contracted the often-fatal illness while caring for Ebola patients in Guinea, one of three West African countries hit hard by the devastating outbreak. He was taken to Bellevue Hospital by ambulance on Oct. 23 with a fever of 100.3 degrees and had been cared for in isolation since then. Numerous people who had contact with Spencer before he was hospitalized have been monitored for signs of Ebola infection, but no new cases have arisen. Spencer is the last of nine Ebola patients to be treated in the United States. Only one patient died -- Liberian national Thomas Eric Duncan, who succumbed at a hospital in Dallas on Oct. 8. Duncan became infected with the virus in his home country. All other patients have recovered from Ebola, something experts attribute to the high level of care patients are receiving in the United States. Spencer had received every Ebola treatment available during his stay at Bellevue, including blood plasma from a prior -- but now recovered -- U.S. patient, medical missionary Nancy Writebol, as well as an experimental medicine. Spencer on Tuesday thanked the staffers at Bellevue for their "tremendous care and support," and said that protocols to deal with Ebola, already in place at the hospital before he arrived, were key to his survival. "I am a living example of how those protocols work and how early detection is critical to both surviving Ebola and ensuring that it is not transmitted to others," he said. News of Spencer's illness sent jitters through the nation's largest city, as officials retraced his steps in the days prior to his admission to Bellevue. He said that over the few days prior to the onset of symptoms he had eaten at a restaurant, gone bowling, and taken the subway and a taxi. None of those activities seems to have resulted in Spencer transmitting the virus, however. Infectious-disease experts believe that Ebola can only be transmitted through contact with bodily fluids while a person is exhibiting symptoms, such as fever, diarrhea and vomiting. The ongoing West Africa Ebola outbreak in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone has so far involved more than 13,000 cases, with almost 5,000 deaths, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. At Tuesday's news conference, Spencer urged Americans to switch their focus to West Africa, the epicenter of the worst Ebola outbreak in history. He said that volunteer health staffers working there are crucial to the fight against the disease. "They are the true heroes that we are not talking about," he said. "Please join me in turning our attention back to West Africa and ensuring that medical volunteers and other aid workers do not face stigma and threats upon their return home. Volunteers need to be supported to help fight this outbreak at its source." Dr. Mary Bassett, commissioner of New York City's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, said Spencer "participated actively in his own care." "I want to salute him," she added. "His work in West Africa was not only for the people of Guinea, it was for all of us -- we will not vanquish this epidemic until it is vanquished in West Africa." More information For more on Ebola, head to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . | 7 | 1,694 | health |
BABOONS horse around on the back of a tame steed as it tries to relax in the sun. The troop of baboons groomed the four-legged creature like it was one of their own and even jumped and somersaulted off the horse's back like it was a trampoline. Docile Jericho welcomed the unlikely attention and allowed the apes to play without complaint. The bizarre scenes were spotted at the Eden Monkeyland and Birds of Eden near Plettenberg Bay, in the Western Cape, South Africa. Videographer / Director: Rebecca Ziegler Producer: Rebecca Lewis Editor: Ian Phillips | 8 | 1,695 | video |
If you're a fellow Asian girl, then you know just how frustrating it can be to do anything with your hair, and I mean anything. Go ahead, bring on the chorus of "Girl, please." As a disclaimer, I'd like to acknowledge that shiny Asian hair can inspire envy, and I do appreciate every hair on my head. But you know what they say: "the grass is always greener on the other side." (In fact, I'm pretty sure that 99 percent of the time, that saying is used while venting frustrations over one's hair.) Having said that, I'd like to address one specific and significant problem we do have. Asian hair is really slippery. While others may see our hair as sleek and glossy, we see it as impossible to work with. The overly smooth texture of our hair makes it extremely difficult to hold a style. Seriously, sometimes even a basic ponytail is a challenge. I have a laundry list of hairstyles that I would love to wear semiregularly, many of which I've tried and failed (miserably) to achieve and some that I won't even bother trying, knowing that the labor-intensive experience will just end with my hair down, flat, and completely unchanged. It's demoralizing, I tell you. If having unmalleable hair has taught me anything, it's that I am undeterred by disappointment. Through continuous - and hopeless - experimentation, I've honed a surprisingly steely resolve that encourages me to keep attempting styles from my laundry list. Keep reading for what I've tried, along with the results, which you'll find start to sound redundant. Loose, Natural Waves This might be my favorite hair look of all time. It just looks so effortlessly beautiful, bohemian, and beachy on Sarah Jessica Parker, the Olsen twins, Jared Leto . . . I've tried to re-create this look on my own head more times than I can count, with curling irons, hot rollers, sleeping in braids, but every time I try the look, the same thing happens in the end: the waves hold for about 20 minutes and then inevitably go limp. Retro Curls If getting natural-looking waves to stay is nearly impossible, then achieving full-on curls is like my Mount Everest. However, I've never dared try this more advanced look at home, so the brave stylists who've made attempts have been able to achieve curls that lasted maybe an hour or so before falling flat. Sexy '60s Bouffant Is there anything sexier than a messy bouffant à la Brigitte Bardot? Maybe if chocolate were somehow involved. I've always been drawn to this seductive, retro look, so glamorously re-created on Blake Lively for Glamour. How I wish I could wake up, tease my crown, and throw on a clip to hold the whole deliberately messy thing together! But when I do it, it looks more like this. Fixing the Problem Now that you have a clearer picture of the dilemma, let's investigate - what exactly makes Asian hair so slippery? I reached out to Kayley Pak, a stylist at John Barrett Salon who is familiar with Asian hair (she happens to have it), and asked her to share her insight. So, what makes Asian hair so slippery? According to Pak, it really involves genetics, and not all Asians have straight, shiny hair. "Asian hair typically has 10 layers of cuticles," she says. "Cuticles are the protective 'shingles' that guard the inner protein structure of your hair. Asian hair cuticles are wider, thicker, and more density-packed. This gives it shine because it is sealed tight and flat. Straight hair gives the illusion of shiny and silky hair."Pak advises investing in a dry texture hairspray to give silky strands more grit. Texture spray is especially helpful when you want to achieve that messy, beachy, "I just rolled around in the hay with a cute guy" look. Some of her favorites include a wide range of options available, from Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray ($42), Prive Finishing Texture Spray ($30), and BlowPro Textstyle Dry Texture Spray ($10). Some other products Pak suggests keeping in your arsenal include dry shampoo (if you should dare skipping a wash) and matte shape paste (which allows you to mold and manipulate your hair however you please). Crimping Can Help Speaking of messy, beachy hair, Pak shares a brilliant technique for achieving those effortless-looking waves that give us straight-haired girls searing hair envy. She recommends "crimping limp or superstraight hair [with a crimping iron] and blow-drying it after" to fake naturally wavy hair. Or if you don't feel like channeling Gisele Bündchen at a beach shoot, the trick will also help your normally slippery hair hold a style. The added texture and volume would look gorgeously bohemian in a messy, low chignon. Perms Aren't Just For Proms And if all of these products and tricks still don't work? Pak says there is one last solution, the one that most people whisper about nowadays (everyone knows someone who has a cousin who's tried it): the perm. But, as someone who has become so fed up with my straight, unstylable hair that I've tried to perm not once, but twice, a word of caution for you: do your research. Make sure to choose a salon that specializes in the specific look you're trying to achieve. If you want to go extreme and try Keri Russell curls, then a normal perm would suit you just fine. However, if you're like me and want loose, tousled waves, then a digital perm might work better. In the past, I didn't do my research, and both times I walked out of the salon looking like an Asian Carrot Top.But if you refuse to chemically treat your hair to reform its structure, then may I offer my own piece of advice? It's not so much a solution as it is a change of attitude. Maybe us Asian girls should learn to embrace our straight, slippery hair. Yes, it can be frustrating, and yes, it will never be as fun as wavy hair, but it's ours. And let's not forget that there are countless women out there who would kill for our sleek strands - even if we do think they're a bit insane. | 4 | 1,696 | lifestyle |
NEW YORK (AP) Americans marked Veterans Day on Tuesday with parades, speeches and military discounts, while in Europe the holiday known as Armistice Day held special meaning in the centennial year of the start of World War I. New York City's Veterans Day Parade up Fifth Avenue was to feature a float with rapper Ice-T plus six military dogs and their handlers, all of whom have served in the U.S. armed forces. The float was funded by philanthropist Lois Pope, who works with several organizations that help reunite veteran dogs and the soldiers with whom they served. While New York's Veterans Day Parade is the nation's oldest, the holiday also was celebrated around the country and overseas. Boston's Veterans Day parade was to include a group representing LGBT military veterans for the first time. A recently formed group called OutVets said it expected between 10 to 30 people to march Tuesday in matching polo shirts and baseball caps. In New Jersey, Gov. Chris Christie was scheduled to attend an event at the Brig. Gen. William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Wrightstown, a state-operated cemetery where more than 56,000 veterans and their family members are buried. Faculty and students in Monmouth University in West Long Branch, New Jersey, were to read the names of troops killed during deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq since the September 2001 terrorist attacks. ___ CELEBRITY CONCERT Bruce Springsteen, Rihanna, Eminem and Metallica were among the headliners for a free concert on the National Mall to raise awareness for issues affecting veterans, In Washington, D.C. Tuesday's first-of-its-kind Concert for Valor is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of fans to the Mall. The Veterans Day event was spearheaded by Starbucks president Howard Schultz. ___ VETERAN BONUSES State officials in Ohio used the holiday to remind Iraq war veterans that time is running out to claim bonuses of up to $1,500. Ohio voters in 2009 approved a $200 million bond issue to fund bonuses for veterans of the Persian Gulf, Afghanistan and Iraq war eras. ___ VETERANS PERKS AND FREEBIES Veterans Day is not only a time to honor those who have served in the military. For American businesses, it's also a time to back up that appreciation with a freebie. Many national chains, as well as mom-and-pop retailers around the U.S., offered free goods and services to anyone who has served in the military, a trend that has been growing since the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. They included IHOP pancakes, Starbucks coffee and even admission at select theaters to see the World War II film "Fury," starring Brad Pitt. ___ ARMISTICE DAY Europe marked Armistice Day with ceremonies and moments of silence as France opened an international memorial on a former battlefield. The events had special significance because this year is the 100th anniversary of the start of World War I. Tuesday was the 96th anniversary of the armistice that ended the war on Nov. 11, 1918. French President Francois Hollande placed a wreath at the tomb of the unknown soldier under Paris' Arc de Triomphe. Later, he was to head to northern France to inaugurate an international war memorial at Notre-Dame-de-Lorette in the presence of German, British and Belgian officials. The Ring of Memory carries the names of 600,000 soldiers who died in the region during the war. | 5 | 1,697 | news |
Mr. and Mrs. Adventure, Brittany and Drew share their top travel tips for successful journeys and reveal their favorite 'must have' travel item with an infinite amount of uses. Hint: quack tape. | 4 | 1,698 | lifestyle |
Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 8, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014 in Athens, Greece. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014. Walls are adorned with works of contemporary graffiti on the streets of Athens on November 10, 2014. | 5 | 1,699 | news |
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