Who Needs Valentine’s Day?

If you’re not feeling the love this February, don’t worry, you’re in good company! Lots of relationships don’t stand the test of time, for celebs just like the rest of us.

Here are some relationships that ran their course in the last year.

Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck

Perhaps the most overhyped reboot relationship in all of celebrity history, Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck resurrecting “Bennifer” from the 2000s did not fare any better the second time around. Getting back together in 2021, the couple were quickly engaged (for a second time) and married a year later in Las Vegas.

Their entire relationship seemed to play out in the media. It went so far to include a full-length film written and directed by Jennifer, and starring the couple in a convoluted love story plot. Sadly, starring in a movie was not enough to save the relationship, which was strained by the constant media exposure, which Jennifer enjoyed and Ben detested.

Their real estate ventures were as crazy as their love life, including buying and selling several homes over the course of their relationship. At one point, they bought this property in Los Angeles, but never moved in. Instead they bought a mansion for nearly $70 million, which has not sold in nearly nine months on the market.

Jennifer Lopez & Ben Affleck's House (False report) (Google Maps)
Jennifer Lopez & Ben Affleck's House (False report)

Channing Tatum and Zoë Kravitz

Zoë Kravitz is Hollywood royalty from both her mom and dad, and Channing Tatum has a decades-long career in film. They met on a film set (where Zoë  was the writer, director, producer, and main character!), as you do in LA, and started dating later that year.

In spite of dating for three years, and being engaged for one year, the couple split up suddenly in October. Fortunately, the breakup has been amicable, and they seem better apart than together. The private couple never bought a house together, but kept their own homes.

Channing bought this very rustic cabin in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles, after his marriage to Jenna Dewan ended in 2019. The 3,300 square foot cabin set him back $5.6 million, and is incredibly light and airy. The outdoors don’t skimp either, with a pool, spa, walking nature paths, and sports court.

As far as we know, he’s still living here, now that he’s single once again.

Channing Tatum's House (#3) (Google Maps)
Channing Tatum's House (#3)

Cardi B and Offset

Cardi B started her career in a very rough environment, and has worked her way up to being one of the most important and influential women in the music industry. Her estranged husband, Offset, got his start by dancing in a Whitney Houston music video, and the two met at a music event. They quickly got married, but their relationship has been anything but stable.

The two bought a house in the elite Buckhead area of Atlanta, Georgia, in 2019. The house set them back about $6 million, and for that price tag, they got a massive 22,000 square feet full of luxury upgrades, vaulted 30′ ceilings, massive wine cellar, and more bathrooms than you can count!

Their relationship was pretty volatile, with them breaking up a few times. But this time, it seems permanent. Cardi B may put the house on the market, if Offset doesn’t keep it in the divorce settlement, because she’s spending most of her time in New York, where she’s from and where she’s working on her career.

Cardi B & Offset's House (Google Maps)
Cardi B & Offset's House

Kristin Cavallari and Mark Estes

Kristin Cavallari has been in the Hollywood business for decades, but it’s not where she lives these days. Since breaking up with former NFL star Jay Cutler, she and her kids have lived in Franklin, a suburb of Nashville, Tennessee. Early in 2024, she started dating TikTok star Mark Estes, more than a decade her junior.

Sadly, the fun relationship quickly burned out, and the two split by the late summer. And at the same time, Kristin decided she was done with her $10 million mansion, and put it on the market. The estate, with a massive main house and a “cottage” of over 3,000 square feet, has a pool, chicken coop, high-end greenhouse, and amazing landscaping.

Unfortunately, the house may be a harder breakup to handle, as she’s lowered the price twice and it’s still been on the market for more than six months.

Kristin Cavallari's House (Google Maps)
Kristin Cavallari's House

Leah Remini and Angelo Pagán

After 21 years of marriage, Leah Remini and Angelo Pagán announced they were going their separate ways in summer 2024, and unlike many breakups in Hollywood, the two quickly and peacefully settled their affairs and moved on. Because they were so amicable in their split, it’s not clear how their more than $25 million in assets, including this gorgeous LA home that sold right before they announced their split.

Back in 2022, right after her daughter left for college, Leah put the 10,000 square foot home on the market, but it took until summer 2024 to sell. And even though she had to cut the price a few times, she still made a tidy profit, selling the home for $9.3 million, when she bought it in 2003 for just under $4 million.

Leah Remini's House (Birds Eye)
Leah Remini's House

So don’t get down and out over being alone this Valentine’s Day. And this way, you can treat yourself to a delicious dinner for one, get the kind of chocolates you actually like, and Netflix whatever you want, no compromises! It sounds pretty good!

 

 

Hollywood Love that Lasts

Valentine’s Day is a time to cherish your partner, reflect on the amazing experiences you’ve had together, and dream about your shared future.

While it seems that most celebrity relationships don’t last much longer than the movies they star in, there are some happy couples that have really stood the test of time.

Let’s take a look at some of these relationships, and see if we can learn any of their secrets to happiness.

Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick

Kevin and Kyra have been together since the 1980s, literally another century! They have been through it all–red hot fame, raising two amazing kids, and even having a massive amount of money stolen (estimated around $30 million) in a Ponzi scheme.

In fact, it was losing that money that has brought them some of their greatest happiness in recent years. After the financial hit, the couple moved to their farm in Sharon, Connecticut. They have owned the 40-acre farm where they spend most of their time for decades, but made the move permanent around 2010. They love to make Instagram videos of them singing to their animals, especially their goats!

The happy couple have recovered from their financial loss, with a current net worth of more than $45 million. But it’s not the money that brings them happiness; as Kyra once said, Kevin has a sense of humor, which is vital to their continued happiness.

Kevin Bacon & Kyra Sedgwick's House (Birds Eye)
Kevin Bacon & Kyra Sedgwick's House

Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick

If there ever were an iconic celeb couple, it would be Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick. Together since the early 1990s, the couple is full of celebrity, class, and New York lifestyle.

Most famous for her role as NYC “It Girl” Carrie Bradshaw, Sarah Jessica Parker has been a recognizable face out and about in the Big Apple for more than 20 years. Matthew Broderick is equally well-known, especially in theater circles. The couple clearly love living in New York City.

In 2016, the couple bought not one but two townhouses in the West Village, for about $35 million. They then got to work renovating the combined space of nearly 14,000 square feet to their exact specifications. After $50 million in renovations, they had a massive mansion complete with a 2,000 square foot private garden in the middle of the city.

Sarah Jessica Parker & Matthew Broderick's Townhouses (Google Maps)
Sarah Jessica Parker & Matthew Broderick's Townhouses

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds have this insane ability to both look like a million bucks (more like a combined $450 million), and still feel like a totally relatable happy couple with kids. Both Blake and Ryan have had recent successful films, which has put them in the spotlight, where they love to tease and flirt with each other.

The happy family of six spends a lot of their time in their Pound Ridge, New York estate, which the couple bought fairly quickly after dating back in 2012, for about $5.7 million. They tied the knot the same year, and have since had four adorable kids. The 8,000 square foot house is perfect for a family of six. Set on 11 acres, it has orchards, ponds, guest residence, and gorgeous 19th century farm house decor and detailing.

Ryan Reynolds & Blake Lively's House (Google Maps)
Ryan Reynolds & Blake Lively's House

David and Victoria Beckham

David and Victoria Beckham are living a smashing real-life love story you think can only take place in movies. David was a working class soccer player whose talent was discovered in his early teens, and quickly became one of the most impressive players in the world.

Victoria grew up wealthy, and decided early on she wanted to be famous. She worked hard at acting and singing and was cast as “Posh Spice” in the most successful girl group of all time, the Spice Girls.

The two met in 1997 and were married in a massive ceremony, complete with matching gold thrones! Their luxurious life has continued apace, including owning homes around the world, including one estate nicknamed “Beckingham Palace” by fans.

The couple, now worth more than half a billion dollars, have turned a large former barn into a massive and bespoke property, where they now reside. The house and two acres of land set them back $10 million, and renovations another $4 million. Nowaways, it’s a perfect home base for their growing kids, and a respite when the busy power couple need a break.

David and Victoria Beckham's House (Google Maps)
David and Victoria Beckham's House

While we can’t all be millionaires with perfect homes and movie star spouses, it’s fun to read about the love stories of some of our favorite actors and celebs, and see how love can be like a fine wine-it gets better with time. Here’s to a Happy Valentine’s Day, and many more to come!

 

Inauguration Day 2025

It’s Inauguration Day in the US!

Once every four years in November, the people of the United States elect a new president, and the next January 20, they are sworn into office.

Today, at noon, Donald J. Trump will take the oath of office and become the 47th President, replacing Joe Biden.

The US Capitol

Since Ronald Reagan was sworn into office in 1981, the inauguration has taken place on the west front of the US Capitol Building in Washington DC.

However, with temperatures well below average, and dangerously cold, President-elect Trump has requested that the ceremony take place inside, in the Rotunda. The event will start at 11:30, but the swearing in takes place at noon, per the instructions for the peaceful transfer of power laid out in the US Constitution.

Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, John Roberts, will swear in Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States of America. His wife, Melania, will hold the Bible on which he swears the oath, and his family will be in attendance.

After the ceremony, the former president and vice president, the new president and vice president, along with other dignitaries and important guests, will have a lunch in the Capitol, before kicking off a series of parties and events throughout Washington DC.

United States Capitol (StreetView)
United States Capitol

Donald Trump

Childhood Home, Queens, NY

As we’ve written about before, Donald Trump was born and raised in Queens, New York, where his dad was a successful real estate developer and his mom a stay at home parent to five children. The lovely home where he spent much of his childhood has six bedrooms and a beautifully-landscaped yard, which he called his “oasis.”

Donald Trump's Childhood Home (StreetView)
Donald Trump's Childhood Home

Trump Tower, NYC, NY

Trump followed in his father’s footsteps, going into New York real estate. One of his most cherished developments is Trump Tower, a mixed-use skyscraper in downtown NYC. He maintains a three-story penthouse at the top, with more than 11,000 square feet of living space! The skyscraper is also the headquarters of his business ventures, where he filmed The Apprentice, and where he’s greeted several foreign dignitaries while serving as the 45th president.

Trump Tower (Google Maps)
Trump Tower

Mar-A-Lago, Palm Beach, FL

Trump bought the beachside resort property in 1985 from the US government. Originally built by Marjorie Merriweather Post, one of the richest women in America, the house was briefly owned by the US government. But because it was too expensive to maintain, it was put up for sale, and Trump bought it for about $10 million.

These days, the resort is Trump’s main residence, and also a very elite, high-end country club. Memberships run more than $200,000, plus annual dues and fees whenever you attend. When he’s not at the White House, incoming President Trump will certainly spend a lot of time here!

Mar-a-Lago 360° Panorama View (StreetView)
Mar-a-Lago 360° Panorama View

J.D. Vance

Residence in Cincinnati, OH

J.D. Vance rose to prominence first as a successful author, venture capitalist, and then as a Republican senator from the state of Ohio, and then he was selected to be Trump’s running mate. All by the time he was 40! His memoir became a bestselling book in 2016 and then film in 2020. He and his wife have three amazing kids, and even after their dad ran for and won a seat in the US Senate, they maintain their primary residence in Cincinnati, Ohio.

The house is in an old neighborhood, and may have been a part of the Underground Railroad, which helped escaped enslaved people move north to freedom. It has five bedrooms, and set the Vances back about $1.4 million. J.D. and his family will have an official residence in Washington DC, but it’s a likely bet they keep this to come home to whenever their dad leaves office.

J.D. Vance's House (Google Maps)
J.D. Vance's House

Joe Biden

Home in Wilmington, DE

When he leaves Washington DC today, Joe Biden will come to Wilmington with his wife Jill at his side. Wrapping up a long career in public service, President Joe Biden will likely take a much-deserved break from the public eye. Biden served as a US senator since he was 31, until he resigned to serve as Vice President to President Barack Obama in 2008. He was elected president in 2020, in a response to Trump’s presidency and the frustration with federal COVID policies.

The lakefront property has been his primary residence for nearly 30 years, built by Joe and Jill in 1996. The nearly-7,000 foot home is a beautiful retreat for the family, complete with a pool.

Joe Biden's House (Birds Eye)
Joe Biden's House

Kamala Harris

House in Los Angeles, CA

Leaving her post as Vice President, Kamala Harris will likely return to her California roots, at least for the time being. She and her husband, successful entertainment attorney Doug Emhoff, have a home in the LA-area, a likely destination for her as she rests from the last four years as VP and the last several grueling months on the campaign trail. Rumor has it she is planning to get back into California politics!

Kamala Harris' House (Google Maps)
Kamala Harris' House

The White House, Washington DC

One of the most interesting aspects of the inauguration is the transfer of the official residence of the President: The White House. Political and professional staff of both the incoming and outgoing president work for weeks to coordinate the move so that the massive amount of personal and official items for both leaders can be transferred in a matter of minutes and hours! By the time Donald and Melania are done with all the inaugural ceremonies, they will be able to go to their new home, find their clothes put away, favorite foods in the fridge, and a feeling of home already established.

The White House is one of the most enduring symbols of the presidency, and of the United States. It is where the most important person in the US resides, and conducts most of their official business.

White House, The (Google Maps)
White House, The

As you watch the inauguration, or read about it in the news, it’s important to reflect on just how monumental January 20 is in history. The entire inauguration process is a beautiful symbol of the nearly 250 years of peaceful domestic tranquility that was the dream of our founding fathers, who fought for freedom, democracy, and enduring peace. God Bless America!

 

Reflecting on Who We Lost in 2024

As we close the books on 2024, it’s important to reflect on those things, and people, we lost recently. Let’s take a moment and remember some of the most important and influential people who passed away this year.

Jimmy Carter

Born in 1924, Jimmy Carter lived to be 100 years old before passing away on December 29, 2024. Carter served as the 39th president of the US during a turbulent time in global affairs, including the Iran hostage crisis, a domestic oil shortage, escalation in the Cold War, and the successful Camp David Accords, which ushered in an era of peace between Israel and Egypt.

However, his legacy will not reflect his time as president nearly as much as his remarkable life after leaving office. He and his beloved wife Rosalynn set an example of service, dedicating much of their time to Habitat for Humanity projects, teaching in their local Sunday school, and drawing attention to important international human rights causes.

The couple owned and lived in one home for most of their married life, expect when in the military or away for public service. Rosalynn is buried under a special tree on the Plains, Georgia property. After Carter’s state funeral is concluded, he will rest alongside his beloved wife. Carter’s legacy of service will certainly continue to benefit people around the globe.

Jimmy Carter's House (Deceased) (Google Maps)
Jimmy Carter's House (Deceased)

Dame Maggie Smith

Margaret “Maggie” Smith was 89 years old when she passed away in September. Known to most these days as Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter series or as the grumpy granny Violet Crawley in Downton Abbey, Maggie Smith was a leading actress for more than 70 years! She started her career in the theater, starring in Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, while at college. She had her first national film award nomination in 1959 at the age of 25.

Maggie lived in a 15th century home in the south of England, which she bought with her husband in 1981. The small estate has a main house, several barns, a stable, orchard, and room for animals. The village has about 5,000 residents, and provided a perfect retreat from the public eye as she grew more and more famous.

In her illustrious career, she was nominated for an Oscar eight times, and won one time for Best Actress, given the title “dame” by Queen Elizabeth in 1990, and awarded numerous other salutations for her acting, which has blessed countless individuals across the globe. Her onscreen magic will remain with us for years to come.

Maggie Smith's House (Deceased) (Google Maps)
Maggie Smith's House (Deceased)

Donald Sutherland

Donald Sutherland is another classic actor who appeared in films for more than 50 years, nearly up until his passing on June 20, at the age of 88. The Canadian-born actor started his career in England, before getting roles in the US . It took a few years, but by the 1980s, he found his stride. He starred in several classic films such as Animal House, JFK, and Without Limits. 

He was even able to work with his son, Kiefer Sutherland, in a few films. In more recent years, his work as President Snow in the Hunger Games series introduced him to a new generation of viewers.

In spite of many great roles in dozens of films, Sutherland never received an Oscar nomination; so in 1997 he received an honorary award by the Academy, for his body of work.

Sutherland and his wife lived in Florida in the last years of his life, but before his move in 2006, he lived for 30 years in this beachfront Santa Monica condo, which he helped design. Recently, it was available for rent for $12,000/month.

Donald Sutherland's House (Deceased) (Birds Eye)
Donald Sutherland's House (Deceased)

Richard Simmons

Fitness icon Richard Simmons changed countless lives by encouraging them to reach a healthy weight through activity and healthy living. His cardio exercise videos, like the Sweatin’ to the Oldies series, were hits for decades, and his outlandish, positive, and unpredictable on-air personality made him a great television guest.

After failing health limited his ability to be active in public, Simmons mostly withdrew from public life in 2014, but maintained an online and social media presence until the end. He passed away on July 13, the day after his 76th birthday. He passed away at his home, and after a short investigation, it was clear it was from complications related to a fall on his birthday.

Simmons had lived in the Los Angeles mansion for decades. He bought the 4,000 square foot house in 1989, and lived there ever since. Unfortunately for the man who made so many happy, his $20 million estate quickly got mired in interpersonal drama, and has yet to be resolved.

Richard Simmons' House (Deceased) (Birds Eye)
Richard Simmons' House (Deceased)

James Earl Jones

More than just the amazing voice behind Mufasa, Darth Vader, and CNN, James Earl Jones was a Hollywood legend who passed away at 93 on September 9. He earned so many awards over his career that he actually has an EGOT, having won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony.

He started out life in Mississippi, and at one point planned to become a doctor before making his acting debut in 1957. He remained in the public eye for more than 70 years, starring in Othello, King Lear, the Star Wars series (vocal) Driving Miss Daisy, The Lion King, and so many more.

He lived in Dutchess County, New York, for decades. Over time, he acquired around a dozen properties in the neighborhood of his original home. If you have $40 million, you can do whatever you want with your money!

James Earl Jones' House (Deceased) (Birds Eye)
James Earl Jones' House (Deceased)

These are just a few of the many revered, renowned, and remarkable public individuals who passed away in 2024. This end-of-year review gives us the chance to reflect on the gifts they shared with the public, and remember the feelings their onscreen characters evoked in all of us.

Farewell, 2024!

As we wind down 2024 and look to 2025, it’s important to take a moment and reflect on the last 12 months, to remember where we’ve been and where we’re going.

Join us in a review of some of the most interesting and most impactful events of the year.

Attempted Assassination of Donald Trump

Donald Trump was elected for a second term as president of the United States, and the campaign was the craziest, most eventful in living memory.

Of all the things that happened, perhaps the most outrageous event was the attempted assassination of Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, PA on July 13, 2024. A 20-year old man shot several rounds at the former president, hitting him once and killing an unfortunate bystander before being taken out by Secret Service agents on the scene.

Donald Trump - Shooting Location (Google Maps)
Donald Trump - Shooting Location

Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapses

Early on the morning of March 26, a massive container ship lost control and crashed into a pier of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. What seemed like an unfortunate accident quickly turned into a tragedy, as the center portion of the bridge collapsed into the water below, killing six construction workers who were unable to evacuate the bridge in time.

The bridge was the second-largest truss bridge in the US, and spanned the entry into the Port of Baltimore, which is one of the largest and busiest ports in the United States. Shipped into and out of the port was brought to a near standstill for several weeks. It will take at least four years to rebuild the bridge, at a cost of nearly $2 billion!

Francis Scott Key Bridge (Google Maps)
Francis Scott Key Bridge

Hurricane Helene Devastates North Carolina

There were two major hurricanes to hit the eastern seaboard of the United States in 2024, and both caused significant destruction in their wake. Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida on September 27, and moved inland through Georgia, South Carolina, and into North Carolina and Tennessee, where it dumped up to two feet of rain on already-saturated ground.

Rains overwhelmed creeks and rivers, creating floods, mudslides, and washouts as the water covered the entire region. At least 225 people were killed, more than $125 billion in damages were sustained, and countless lives were changed completely.

Asheville’s beautiful Biltmore Estate, was not spared flood damage, and its iconic gate showed a water line of at least 15 feet above ground! The property, built by the wealthy Vanderbilt family as a “little summer retreat” is now a major tourist attraction. After much effort, the residence is now open for visitors again.

Biltmore Estate (StreetView)
Biltmore Estate

The town of Chimney Rock was one of many small enclaves in the Appalachian mountains that suffered near-total destruction when the nearby river flooded catastrophically. To this day, much of the damage is still visible. The area will never be the same, but the people of western North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee are resilient and will find a way forward.

Chimney Rock (StreetView)
Chimney Rock

Princess Kate’s Health Concerns

Royal watchers started the year with sad news, when Princess Kate of the UK stepped away from public life for a few weeks for “abdominal surgery.” After weeks without any update, the public grew suspicious, and the situation quickly got out of control. Eventually, the Palace announced she was getting treatment for cancer, and was recovering in private with William and the children at their home, Adalaide Cottage, on the grounds of Windsor Castle.

The four-bedroom residence was once a royal retreat for Queen Victoria, and is now where the future king and queen work to raise their kids in a predictable and stable environment.

Prince William & Princess Kate's House (Adelaide Cottage) (Bing Maps)
Prince William & Princess Kate's House (Adelaide Cottage)

At the same time, King Charles too had a battle with cancer. But both stories have happy endings, as both royals have made a healthy recovery. They were seen participating in their usual Christmas procession at the Sandringham estate, where the royals have spent Christmas for decades. Kate mingled among the crowd of well-wishers for so long, she actually had to rush to catch up with her family. What a wonderful way to end a turbulent year for the family!

The Sandringham estate has been part of the royal property since the late 1800s, and quickly become a most beloved retreat for the family. Elizabeth II spent at least two months there every year, and when she died, the property was passed directly to her son Charles.

Sandringham House (Bing Maps)
Sandringham House

Martha Stewart and Snoop Dogg Host the 2024 Summer Olympics

Perhaps the coolest news story of the year was the summer Olympics hosted in Paris, France, and the media buzz surrounding the Games.

The first city to host the Games three times, Paris went all out to ensure the competition was memorable, safe, and enjoyable. Many of the outdoor events were held at the Stade de France, the country’s national stadium and site of the national soccer team’s victory over Brazil to win the 1998 World Cup! It was also one of the sites of coordinated terrorist attacks in 2015, where 130 people were killed in attacks across metropolitan Paris.

Stade de France (StreetView)
Stade de France

One of the most entertaining aspects of the Games was the inclusion of two celebrity hosts, Snoop Dogg, and Martha Stewart. The two are fast friends in spite of their remarkable differences in backgrounds, personalities, and paths to success. Neither has any experience with competitive sport, but their banter and ability to explain events to viewers in a fun and engaging way quickly made them a highlight of the whole event.

Snoop lives in sunny California in a house he bought nearly 30 years ago for $720,000! The man worth more than $160 million seems to prefer spending his money on luxury threads, cars, and activities, rather than on a massive and expensive home.

Snoop Dogg's House (Birds Eye)
Snoop Dogg's House

Martha lives on the other side of the country in the historic and classy town of Katonah, in Westchester County, NY. The entertainment mogul worth $400 million lives on an estate with several houses, multiple gardens, farm animals, and everything America’s number one hostess could require. There’s even a house just for her basket collection!

Martha Stewart's House (Cantitoe Corners) (Google Maps)
Martha Stewart's House (Cantitoe Corners)

These days, things move so fast, it’s hard to remember what happened last month, let alone in the last year. It’s good to have a refresher and catch up on the year’s events as we say farewell to 2024, and look forward to whatever 2025 has in store!

Jimmy Carter Turns 100: Reflecting on a Life of Service and Compassion

James Earl Carter, Jr. turns 100 today. The former president has a legacy that will live another 100 years or more.

He served as governor of Georgia, and as  the 36th president of the United States. He only served one term, and had a reputation as overseeing a country in “malaise” from inflation and international crises. However, he did oversee several important international accomplishments, including the Camp David Accords and an arms reduction treaty with the Soviet Union.

And yet, the work he performed after his presidency is what makes him so admirable, respectable, and unique among political leaders around the world. After serving as president, he became heavily involved in working towards bringing peace to the world, both through diplomatic efforts and through community volunteer work.

On this centennial, let’s look at some of the places that molded him into one of the most influential individuals of the 20th century.

Boyhood Home, Plains, GA

Born in rural Georgia on October 1, 1924, Jimmy was the oldest of four kids, and would later be confirmed as the first US president born in a hospital. His parents, like most white people of the time, supported segregation, but their family home was in a predominately African American area, which influenced Carter’s outlook and support for integration.

Carter started farming an acre of land in his teens, selling peanuts and developing a reputation as a hardworking kid.

Jimmy Carter's Boyhood Home (Google Maps)
Jimmy Carter's Boyhood Home

US Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD

After attending Georgia Tech and graduating from the US Naval Academy, Carter married his hometown love, Rosalynn Smith. Carter was commissioned in the Navy as an ensign, and the couple began their life together with constant deployments and moving the family around the US. Carter served on nuclear submarines, which would have been a tight fit for the nearly 6′ sailor.

US Naval Academy (Google Maps)
US Naval Academy

Governor’s Mansion, Atlanta, GA

After suddenly resigning from the Navy for family matters, the family moved back to tiny Plains, Georgia. What seemed like a major setback turned into the key to launch him onto the world stage. Carter became a state senator, and then was elected governor of Georgia in 1970. In his inaugural speech, he said “The time of racial discrimination is over,” indicating his commitment to human rights, which he would prioritize for the rest of his life.

The Governor’s mansion is a three-story mansion set on 18 acres of land in the upscale Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta. This is where Carter and his family lived during his one term as governor.

Georgia Governor's Mansion (Birds Eye)
Georgia Governor's Mansion

White House, Washington, DC

Towards the end of his first term, Carter announced his intention to run for president of the United States. His genuine approach won over voters, and he won first the Democratic nomination, and then the election in November 1976.

Carter was inaugurated as the 39th president of the United States on January 20, 1977. He and Rosalynn moved to the White House, the official residence of American presidents since John Adams. Each president added their own features, and Carter was no different. He added solar panels (which were later removed) and was the first president to incorporate computers and printers into office functions.

The White House (StreetView)
The White House

Current Home, Plains, GA

After losing his reelection campaign to Ronald Reagan, Carter moved back to Plains, Georgia. The modest home was built by the Carters in 1961, and they have lived there ever since. Even into their 80s, Jimmy and Rosalynn did their own renovations and maintenance.

From here, Carter continues to speak out on domestic and international issues. He and Rosalynn dedicated their lives to service, from international human rights causes, to volunteering with Habitat for Humanity projects in their own region. This personal commitment to doing more than talking has given Carter a post-presidential legacy far more meaningful than any other leader.

Rosalynn passed away in 2023, and was buried on the property, a testament to the value she and her family place on the area where they grew up, raised their family, and started their political journey. Someday, Jimmy will be buried by her side.

Jimmy Carter's House (Deceased) (Google Maps)
Jimmy Carter's House (Deceased)

Presidential Library and Museum, Atlanta, GA

Like all presidents, Carter has a formal library full of his presidential papers, documents, important memorabilia, and other materials from his time in office, and his life.

Located in downtown Atlanta, the museum has exhibits featuring the Nobel Peace Prize he was awarded in 2002, other international recognition of his human rights work, as well as a life-size replica of the Oval Office.

The library houses more than 25 million pages of documents, half a million photos, and countless objects that commemorate his time in the public sphere.

The library can be visited for research purposes, and the museum is open to tours. The Carters guaranteed that all students 16 and under can attend for free, and the library funds transportation for students coming on class trips.

Jimmy Carter Presidential Library (Birds Eye)
Jimmy Carter Presidential Library

National Historic Park, Plains, GA

Carter’s boyhood house and land have been turned into a national historical park, and are an excellent resource for anyone wanting to learn more about this amazing man. The park also includes his old high school and other landmarks that were important to the development of the simple peanut farmer who rose to serve as leader of the free world.

Jimmy Carter National Historical Park (StreetView)
Jimmy Carter National Historical Park

In the decades since he left office, Carter (and his wife Rosalynn) developed a persona separate from and greater than a leader of one political party. They became symbols of human rights, equality under the law, the respect for the individual, and for putting your efforts behind your words. Their collective legacy will last because they found ways to change the world, by changing themselves and the places around them.

President Carter is a remarkable man, and a wonderful example that we can learn from. On this important birthday, let’s wish him a happy birthday, and honor his legacy by doing a kind deed to someone we see today.

American Revolutionary War Sites

Independence Day is just around the corner, with fireworks and parades and celebrations in every town and city across the United States.

Amid all the hot dogs and hamburgers and apple pie, it’s important to remember why we can celebrate the Fourth of July.

Here are some sights from America’s fight for independence to remind us that Independence Day is about more than food and family and fireworks–it’s about freedom.

Boston, Massachusetts

Much of the early actions of the American Revolution began in Boston, including the riot of the Boston Tea Party and other uprisings that stirred the hearts of freedom lovers across the colonies.

Faneuil Hall was an indoor market in Boston that was also used as a location for meetings in the lead up to the Revolution. It was here that the plan for the Boston Tea Party was hatched, and where several revolutionary leaders gave rousing speeches to unite the city against the British.

Faneuil Hall (StreetView)
Faneuil Hall

The Battle of Bunker Hill, fought in 1775, was one of the early battles of the war, and while it’s outcome was largely considered a British victory, it was important for the Americans to see they were capable of standing up to the British in battle.

Bunker Hill Monument (Birds Eye)
Bunker Hill Monument

There’s even a museum for visitors walking the Freedom Trail through the city.

Bunker Hill Museum (StreetView)
Bunker Hill Museum

Every kid learns in history about Paul Revere’s night ride and the code “one if by land and two if by sea” to alert the towns around Boston of the British troop movements. It was at the Old North Church that the signal was sent starting Revere on his midnight ride.

Old North Church Boston (Google Maps)
Old North Church Boston

Philadelphia

Philadelphia was the nation’s first capital, and home of the Continental Congresses that directed much of the politics of the war as well as maintained support among the citizens of the colonies for the war.

Independence Hall is where the Continental Congresses met, and where both the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were drafted. It is one of the most important buildings in America’s history, and is an awesome place to visit to learn more of how our country was established.

Independence Hall (StreetView)
Independence Hall

The Liberty Bell has a great sentimental meaning to Americans as a symbol of freedom and announcing the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It is still on display and draws a great deal of attention from visitors to the city.

Liberty Bell Center (Birds Eye)
Liberty Bell Center

Betsy Ross has become an icon in American history for designing and making the first American flags. While she did indeed convince George Washington to modify the design and sewed many flags for Pennsylvania, it cannot be proved that she made the very first flag. Nonetheless, her story is important to highlight the role of women and show how the entire community was involved in the Revolution.

Betsy Ross House (StreetView)
Betsy Ross House

Just outside Philadelphia lies Valley Forge, one of the most important and memorable encampments, where the soldiers suffered as they regrouped and trained during the winter and while waiting for decisions on where to move to next. The memory of the suffering and struggle of the soldiers at Valley Forge help us better appreciate our freedoms as Americans today.

Valley Forge (Google Maps)
Valley Forge

Washington, D.C.

While Washington, D.C. is now the nation’s capital, it wasn’t founded until after the Revolution. But those interested in Revolutionary War history will not be disappointed if they make a stop here. The Declaration of Independence and Constitution, as well as other important founding documents, are on display in the National Archives in downtown Washington, D.C.

National Archives (Bing Maps)
National Archives

Just a few hours south of Washington, D.C. is the most important battle site of the war: Yorktown. It was here in southern Virginia where General George Washington accepted the surrender of Lieutenant General Charles Cornwallis and his troops, effectively ending the war and leading to the founding of the United States.

Yorktown Surrender Field (Google Maps)
Yorktown Surrender Field

There are battlefields, encampments and other important sites from the Revolutionary War up and down the East Coast. Visiting them can be an educational and interesting experience even if history is not your thing, so make sure you take a look if you find yourself nearby!

Battle of Little Bighorn June 25

On the afternoon of June 25, 1876, General George Armstrong Custer, along with more than 200 of his men, was killed at a battle later called Little Bighorn, after the river that flowed near the bloody site. While it was a temporary victory for the Lakota, Cheyenne, and other Native people fighting for the preservation of their way of life and land, in the end, it hastened the end of the nomadic lifestyle available to the Native people of the plains and mountains of the United States.

Let’s take a look at the battle where Custer made his “last stand” and see some of the memorials, monuments, and important sites associated with the battle.

Military Academy at West Point, New York

George Armstrong Custer, somewhat on a whim, ended up at the US’s premier military academy, known as West Point. He graduated in 1861, 34th of 34 students in his class. He went on to serve in the Union Army in the Civil War, even witnessing Lee’s surrender to Grant, which effectively ended the war.

In order to attend West Point, a student must be nominated by their member of Congress, and attend the university to receive a well-rounded and well-regarded education. It has turned out several well-regarded individuals, including both Ulysses S. Grant and Robert E. Lee, Douglas MacArthur, George S. Patton, and David Petraeus.

United States Military Academy - West Point (Google Maps)
United States Military Academy - West Point

General Custer’s remains were interred here in 1877.

Gen. George Armstrong Custer's Grave (StreetView)
Gen. George Armstrong Custer's Grave

Fort Abraham Lincoln, North Dakota

General Custer was a military man through and through, and continued in service after the Civil War. He was stationed in the western territories to fight what was known as the “Indian Wars” where US troops fought against Native warriors, eventually pushing the Native people onto reservations or to less desirable land.

In 1876, Custer was stationed at Fort Abraham Lincoln in present-day North Dakota. He and his wife lived in a house here, where he served as Commander of the fort.  It was from this fort that Custer and his troops left on May 17, and his wife repeatedly remarked that a mirage appeared and covered half of the departing soldiers from view. Six weeks later, her mirage became a sad reality.

The fort has since been dissolved and turned into Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park. Several important sites from the times of the Indian Wars, as well as of Native heritage, are preserved in the park.

Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park (Google Maps)
Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park

Battle of Little Bighorn

With the help of Native scouts, Custer and two groups converged on a large gathering of Native people, including men, women, and children, gathering at the Little Bighorn River in present-day Montana.

Coming close to the encampment, Custer was convinced he needed to attack quickly on June 25, rather than wait a day for reinforcements and additional supplies. Therefore, he ordered his subordinates to attack from different angles.

Miscalculations about the size of the encampment and who was at the camp led to a rout, where the American soldiers were quickly outnumbered and overwhelmed.

While other divisions suffered significant losses but were able to eventually retreat, Custer and the men with him became surrounded on their bluff, and slaughtered. Not one of the 210 or so men survived.

Little Big Horn - Custer's Last Stand (Google Maps)
Little Big Horn - Custer's Last Stand

Little Bighorn National Monument

The battle, where about 300 US troops and 60 Native warriors were killed, quickly became a rallying cry in the states to finish the job of containing the “savage” nomadic people. While today people understand the atrocities inflicted upon the Native American people, both as a people and as individuals, that was not the case in 1876.

The site of the battle became first an informal memorial and then eventually a national monument. The monument also includes locations where other battles that day were fought, to better tell the entire story.

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument (Google Maps)
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Sitting Bull’s Grave

One of the Native Lakota warrior leaders, Sitting Bull, was at the battle, and helped lead his people to victory that day. Sitting Bull had a well-deserved reputation as an incredibly brave warrior, but also as a man with visionary powers. In fact, legend says he foretold the battle of Little Bighorn.

Sadly, US military leaders saw Sitting Bull as a direct threat to taking the territory of the Native people, and eventually he was taken prisoner, forced to live on reservations, and prevented from participating in his traditional nomadic lifestyle.

He was killed in an intentional and tragic gunfight in 1890. His remains were taken to Fort Yates in North Dakota. However, tradition holds that his remains were later secretly dug up, and he was reinterred in South Dakota. A memorial now marks the spot where his body is said to have been buried.

Sitting Bulls grave (StreetView)
Sitting Bulls grave

Crazy Horse Memorial

Another brave fighter at the battle that day was Crazy Horse, a Lakota warrior known for his bravery, confidence, and desire to live in the traditional ways of his people. According to accounts of the battle, he and his soldiers fought and slaughtered Custer and his men. Crazy Horse was killed at Fort Robinson in Nebraska. The manner of his death was intentional and intentionally lacking in dignity for a Lakota warrior, but his stoicism in death impressed, and somewhat frightened, the soldiers who executed him.

His final resting place is unknown. However, in 1948, a massive memorial to him was undertaken in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The area is considered holy to the Lakota. The statue of his face and shoulders will be the largest face, and largest statue, in the world, much larger than the faces of the four presidents at nearby Mount Rushmore. However, work is slow as all funds for the project are raised privately.

Crazy Horse Memorial up close (StreetView)
Crazy Horse Memorial up close

While the battle Little Bighorn and Custer’s Last Stand were a victory for the Native people, the success was short-lived. It convinced the US people that the territory must be taken and settled, and the original inhabitants moved out of the way. It was really the beginning of the end for these people, and the tragedy of that day cannot be overstated. So, on this day, take a moment to reflect on the loss of life, and the loss of the way of life, of the original settlers of the land we call the United States.

 

Let’s All Go to the Movies!

It’s the middle of summer, and  this year, there are several sequels to highly successful franchises coming to theaters.  Blockbusters are the perfect cure to a hot or boring afternoon, so let’s take a look at some of the really cool movies we can see this summer.

Deadpool and Wolverine comes out this July, and it will be a guaranteed success, merging two hit franchises known for their powerhouse main stars and action-packed plot lines.

Hugh Jackman, NYC Apartment

Bringing the Wolverine to the movie, few people in Hollywood have made being a superhero more successful than Hugh Jackman. The character was his breakout role way back, and has helped him develop a net worth of more than $150 million.

However, a year after separating from his wife of 27 years, Hugh Jackman’s private life has been a little up in the air. Way back in 2008, the couple bought this amazing West Village property for $21 million. It is situated across three floors, and has more than 11,000 square feet.

Just a few months before they filed for divorce, the couple bought a new penthouse in Chelsea, and put this triplex apartment on the market. It hasn’t sold in over a year, so maybe Hugh is using the place while he figures out where he’s going to live going forward.

Hugh Jackman's Apartment (StreetView)
Hugh Jackman's Apartment

Ryan Reynolds, Pound Ridge Estate

Ryan Reynolds has a smile that can take your breath away, but when you learn he’s parlayed his acting career into a net worth exceeding $350 million, you’ll really be speechless. And much of that financial success comes from the Deadpool franchise. Each of the previous films have broken all the records, and brought in nearly a billion dollars each!

When not portraying a sarcastic and feisty antihero on screen, Ryan likes to spend time with his wife Blake Lively and their four girls. They love to be away from Hollywood, and enjoy their Pound Ridge, New York home.

They paid $5.7 million for this property more than a decade ago. With nearly 9,000 square feet, the six of them can really stretch out; and if that’s not enough, they can really get comfortable running around the 11.5 acres the house is set on.

Ryan Reynolds & Blake Lively's House (Google Maps)
Ryan Reynolds & Blake Lively's House

Bad Boys: Ride or Die has been out a few weeks and already netted about $150 million! The fourth installment in the 20-year franchise proves why people love Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, and can’t get enough when the two work together.

Will Smith’s Pad in Calabasas

The Fresh Prince has reigned over Hollywood for decades, outlasting all sorts of challenges and scandals, even those that were self-inflicted. He and his longtime wife Jada Pinkett Smith own an estate in Calabasas that’s so big, words like huge and enormous don’t do it justice.

The 150-acre compound in the highly sought-after area of Calabasas has a 25,000 square foot main house, and several other houses and structures on the property. It has an 11,000 square foot gym, and even an artificial lake!

Will’s net worth is pushing half a billion dollars, and this summer hit will bring him even closer, with rumors that he earned $25 million to reprise his Miami detective role.

Will Smith's House (Google Maps)
Will Smith's House

Despicable Me 4 comes out the day before the Fourth of July, and it’s sure to be a hit. The previous three films each made more than $3 billion dollars! Seeing evil Gru and the mischievous minions is practically a summer tradition at this point, so seeing the next movie is a must!

Steve Carell’s Mansion in Toluca Lake

Steve is known for being a hapless if not lovable character, even as an evil animated villain. But in real life, he’s a laid-back family man. This home in Toluca Lake was bought in 2010, only to be torn down and have a totally new mansion built in its place. The custom design has more than 7,000 square feet on the first floor alone, and rooms designed for his two kids, showing he’s a big softie at heart.

Steve Carell's House (Birds Eye)
Steve Carell's House

Pharrell Williams’ Florida Pad

Pharrell brought the original Despicable Me to life with his rendition of Happy and he’s back at it again for the newest film. Since the last film, he’s packed up from his estate in California and relocated to a 17,000 square foot estate in Coral Gables, Florida.

The stylish home was designed by a renowned architect, and has a sleek, minimalist design that helps it feel like part of the landscape, rather than apart from it. Inside, the home is very modern, and includes a massive video wall in the main bedroom!

The $30 million property also has a guest house with movie theater, infinity pool, an outdoor movie area, and a skate park!

Pharrell Williams' House (Google Maps)
Pharrell Williams' House

This summer, it’s obvious these celebs will be staying cool in their massive, gorgeous estates. But you can beat the heat too, just by going to the movies and enjoying an afternoon or evening of fun and entertainment. Don’t forget the popcorn!

Viva Las Vegas! A Great Spring Break Destination

Whether you’re young and looking for an adventure, or traveling with a family, Las Vegas is a great Spring Break destination.

Let’s take a look at some of the places everyone should have on their list to see when they make a trip to Sin City.

Welcome to Last Vegas Sign

Perhaps the most recognized feature of Las Vegas, the flashing sign welcoming visitors to Las Vegas was funded in 1959, at perhaps the heyday of Vegas glamor and glitz. These days, it’s a familiar, retro greeting for everyone who tour the Strip, the area jam packed with casinos, restaurants, party venues, and entertainment for all ages. Day or night, the party’s going on, and it’s the perfect photo op to announce your arrival!

Las Vegas: The Strip - Google Earth (StreetView)
Las Vegas: The Strip - Google Earth

The Venetian Casino and Resort

If you want to see a great music concert, check out the Venetian! Christina Aguilera will be there for two weeks in April, followed by Kylie Minogue, who regularly performs at the resort.

The hotel and casino is just as amazing, often making lists of best resorts and casinos in the US. Its theme hearkens back to the height of the Venetian empire, with a recreation of the Rialto Bridge, the Doge’s Palace, and other famous landmarks from the powerful empire of the Middle Ages.

Doge's Palace at the Venetian Casino and Resort (Birds Eye)
Doge's Palace at the Venetian Casino and Resort

The Bellagio

The Bellagio is one of Vegas’s most famous luxury resorts, created in the style of an Italian village, complete with classical-styled sculpture and design, high-end art galleries, breathtaking botanical gardens, and more.

Bellagio Hotel & Casino (Birds Eye)
Bellagio Hotel & Casino

Perhaps the most famous attraction at the Bellagio are the impressive fountains, which perform free water shows choreographed with music and lighting to entertain the crowds. Designed as the focal point in an 8.5 acre man-made lake in the center of the Las Vegas desert, they are certainly impressive. In fact, they are considered one of the most talked-about attractions in the city by people around the world!

Bellagio Fountains (Birds Eye)
Bellagio Fountains

Eiffel Tower and Paris Hotel

The Paris Hotel is an awesome spectacle, and a lot more affordable! It was designed with the average, not high-end, visitor, in mind. But they did not skimp on awesome Parisian features. The biggest draw is the replica Eiffel Tower, which rises about 550 feet in the air. Only 1/3 as big as the original, it’s still impressive against the Las Vegas skyline.

Eiffel Tower in Paris Hotel (Birds Eye)
Eiffel Tower in Paris Hotel

Other replicas on the site include the Arc de Triomphe, Louvre museum, and Paris Opera House. It’s “almost” like going to France, without crossing an ocean or needing a passport.

'Arc de Triumph' (Birds Eye)
'Arc de Triumph'

Luxor Las Vegas

The Luxor Hotel goes all the way to another famous desert for its theme: the deserts of ancient Egypt, and the pyramids of Giza. Some years, the hotel hosts more visitors than the city on which it’s modeled! Its centerpiece is a massive pyramid, which is the actual hotel. At the top of the pyramid is a giant light called the Luxor Sky Beam, the most powerful man-made light in the world.

Like other hotels, it also has lots of entertainment, beyond cool hotel rooms and casinos. It is also known for the expansive and educational Titanic exhibit, that still impresses visitors with artifacts and historical details in a museum dedicated to the ocean, that seems a little out of place in the desert.

Luxor (Birds Eye)
Luxor

The Mob Museum

Branching out a bit from the Strip and resorts, the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, better known as the Mob Museum, is a really cool museum dedicated to telling the story of organized crime, and the law enforcement agents who fight that crime.

Some people don’t know this, but Las Vegas has deep ties to organized crime and mob bosses, which makes sense with all the gambling and other activities you can do there. While the connections have eased up considerably over the years, the history is colorful, and the museum is a great place to learn about law enforcement over the years in the US, and see some really cool exhibits about the most famous, and notorious, characters, in organized crime.

National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement (Google Maps)
National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement

Hoover Dam

If you’re looking to spend some time enjoying the region’s climate and scenery, you should check out Hoover Dam. The dam, blocking the Colorado River on the border between Las Vegas and Arizona, generates power for California, Nevada, and Arizona, for more than 1.25 million people.

It also generates water for crops and cities and towns in the area, coming off of Lake Mead, the man-made lake created as a result of the dam. Tourists can tour different parts of the dam, can check out the structure from the bridge at the top of the dam, or participate in water activities on Lake Mead. It’s less than an hour away from Sin City, but it feels like a completely different world.

Hoover Dam (Google Maps)
Hoover Dam

If you have the chance to tour Las Vegas, springtime is a great time to go; it’s not too hot, and there’s so much going on to keep you entertained. And if you can’t make it, this list will keep you almost as entertained.