Natalie

August 9, 2021July 13, 2021

Hottest Places on Earth

This has been an insane, record-breaking summer. We’ve seen multiple heat waves across the US, Canada, and Scandinavia. It’s August, summer is winding down, but it’s not over yet.

As we count down the days to cooler weather, let’s look at some of the hottest places on earth, and remember: We’re grateful for air conditioning.

Death Valley, California, USA

Holding the world record for hottest temperature of ambient air, Death Valley in California has a well-earned reputation as the hottest place on earth. A now-disputed record was set in 1913. But just last month, a more accurate record was likely set, at 130°F. Either way, Death Valley sees some of the hottest temperatures each year.

Furnace Creek

Death Valley, in spite of its name, is a popular tourist destination. People can hike, camp, and even star gaze, in the park. It is designated as a “dark sky” site, meaning that night light pollution is intentionally restricted to promote the study of astronomy.

Dante's View

Kebili, Tunisia

Kebili, one of the oldest towns in Tunisia, was settled because it is an oasis in the Sahara Desert. Signs of human habitation there date back around 200,000 years. It claims a recorded temperature of 131°F, but the record is disputed. Nonetheless, it does have a reputation for being an insanely hot place.

The city is within the Sahara Desert, which has a global reputation as being a hot, dry, unforgiving place. The area around Kebili is particularly hot and dry due to a weather phenomenon where wind coming off the leeward side of a mountain is particularly dry and hot. This, combined with the geographic features of sand and rock, makes Kebili so toasty.

Kebili Oasis

Turbat, Pakistan

Located in southwest Pakistan, the city of Turbat is considered one of the hottest cities in Asia, and holds a record of the fourth hottest recorded temperature ever.

The record was set on May 27, 2017, when the temperature reached 128.7°F. What’s even crazier is that the record was during a heat wave, where the city’s temperatures reached 122°F for four days in a row!

Turbat International Airport (TUK)

Dallol, Ethiopia

Dallol, Ethiopia has earned the award for hottest inhabited place on earth. The average high is between 86°F and 101.7°F, which seems just brutal! In spite of the intense heat, the area has been inhabited by pastoral tribes for millennia. A small community was established in the 20th century as part of international efforts to mine salt from the area, but as the market has changed, most people have left the area.

Dallol is an otherworldly place, close to the Red Sea but more than 400 feet below sea level. It is also one of the world’s most volcanic regions. The desirable salts are pushed up from the soil by the volcanic activity. It makes the landscape fascinating, beautiful, peculiar, and dangerous to people unaccustomed to navigating the area.

Very remote Ethiopian ghost town - hottest place on earth

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok has a reputation as a sweltering, crowded, busy city, and it it well-deserved in all regards. Because of its location on the Gulf of Thailand, its proximity to the equator, and other factors, Thailand is hot year-round, and there is never any relief from the weather.

Lumphini Park

The average temperature is 90° F, and combined with the high humidity, the city feels like it never cools off. And that’s before the rains of the summer monsoons! Bangkok has turned the heat to its advantage, with a reputation as a dynamic, vibrant, hot, and unique mega-metropolis.

Fortunately, the city has built water parks and other outdoor amenities to help ward off, or embrace, the constant heat that one must learn to love in Thailand.

Siam Park

Timbuktu, Mali

Sitting on the edge of the Sahara, Timbuktu is a famous, but dwindling, city. Once one of the most important cities in Africa, Timbuktu is now suffering from the effects of desertification, where sands blown in from the Sahara and cover more and more of the arable and usable land in the region.

Timbuktu is dry, getting less than ten inches of rain per year. It’s also hot; even in the cooler months, the daily high is still above 80°F. During the hotter months, average daily highs are between 95-105°F!

Sankore Mosque

These are just a few of the crazy hot places around the world. As we endure the last, hottest days of summer, let’s hope that the closest we get to setting any heat records is reading this article today. Stay cool!

August 3, 2021July 13, 2021

Happy Birthday, Martha Stewart!

Martha Stewart seems ageless. The home and lifestyle guru has gently taught America, and the world, about “good things” for forty years but she’s as popular and fresh as ever.

Today, as she turns 80 years old, let’s take a look at some important places in Martha’s life.

Cantitoe Corners in Katonah, N.Y

Martha’s main residence is in Katonah, a small town in Bedford, New York. She has lived here since 2000, and has acquired about 150 acres of farmland. It had been owned by an eccentric millionaire, and when it went on the market, Martha knew it was meant to be her next home.

Martha lives in the “Winter House” rather than the original 1700s “Summer House”. It has several other homes and buildings on the property, and she paid about $15 million for the entire estate.

Martha Stewart's House

Next Door Neighbor Ralph Lauren

Martha has lots of rich and famous neighbors, including her next door neighbor Ralph Lauren. He has described the 17,000 square foot mansion as “part hunting lodge, part stately home.” The home is surrounded by unpaved roads, 250 acres of land, and an impressive collection of classic cars.

As one can expect, the interior is an homage to the famed American designer, with deep colors, plaids, plenty of leather, and a great deal of wood. With more than $6 billion to his name, he can afford all the fancy upgrades he could want.

Ralph Lauren's House

East Hamptons, NY

Like any self-respecting East Coast millionaire, Martha owned a great house in the East Hamptons. But, with the upward pressure Covid-19 put on the local housing market, Martha decided to cash in. She sold her house in the summer of 2021. She had owned the Lily Pond Lane home for more than 25 years, and even threw her 50th birthday party there.

She rarely stayed at the 1880s-era home, and while the selling price isn’t known, it was listed for about $4.8 million. Knowing how hot the market was, she certainly didn’t lose money on her investment.

Martha Stewart's House

Skylands, Seal Harbor, MA

When she’s not at her Bedford home, Martha loves to spend her summers at her Seal Harbor, Maine home. Built for Edsel Ford, Henry Ford’s son, “Skylands” was designed not to stand out but to be an extension of the granite, wood, and moss surrounding the estate.

The home was sold to Martha complete, with most of the original furniture, decor, and even dishes and linens! Martha has upgraded and added her personal touch to the property, but she considers the estate “an American treasure” and views herself as the “caretaker”.

The main house has 35,000 square feet! She also bought another home to restore the estate to its original design. The property has a church, indoor squash court, multiple garages, greenhouse, and a fully-stocked wine cellar.

Martha Stewart's house

Turkey Hill in Westport, CT

Martha got her start catering local parties out of her kitchen in Westport, CT. She and her then-husband bought Turkey Hill in 1971 and worked hard to restore the home, which had been part of an onion farm. They acquired another home, part of the original farm, for a grand total of less than $100,000.

They turned the larger property into a working farm complete with orchards, kitchen gardens, flower gardens, animals, and more. The home, with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, was a central feature as Martha grew in her success. The kitchen, living room, and other rooms have been featured on her television shows, in magazines, books, and more.

Eventually, Martha outgrew the estate and moved her activities to Bedford. She put the estate on the market, asking just under $9 million, in 2007. It took several months, but eventually she found a buyer who would love the property as much as she did.

Martha Stewart's House (former)

Snoop Dogg’s Diamond Bar, CA Residence

In 2008, Snoop Dogg appeared on Martha’s show, and the two had an instant connection. Nearly 15 years later, they are closer than ever. Sincerely friends, the two have turned their odd couple friendship into a professional powerhouse.

They’ve done commercials together, supported each other’s businesses and even have an Emmy-nominated television show together!

Snoop Dogg could not be further from Martha in terms of lifestyle. The OG rapper bought a home in the LA area in 1992 for less than $750,000. It’s now worth millions, but Snoop has no intention of leaving. It’s on nearly three acres, has four bedrooms, a pool, spa, basketball court, and amazing views.

He bought another home in the neighborhood that he considers his man cave, and since he’s worth more than $140 million, it totally makes sense!

Snoop Dogg's House

Martha has more than $400 million to her name, which makes it easy for her to celebrate in style, whether it’s a low-key celebration with loved ones at Skylands, or somewhere fabulous enough to ring in her next decade. No matter what, it’s sure to be full of “good things”. Happy birthday, Martha!

July 26, 2021July 18, 2021

The Tokyo Olympics, Late But Still Great

Last March, Covid-19 spread throughout the world, bringing everything to a standstill. Even the Summer Olympics in Tokyo were delayed.

The world is reemerging from a yearlong hibernation, and we are finally having the 2020 summer games. They will run July 23 to August 8, and will be a much-needed celebration of sport and life, and a great distraction for the entire world.

The Paralympics, the international sports competitions for athletes with disabilities will follow on in Tokyo and Japan from August 24 to September 5.

Let’s take a look at some of the important locations for this year’s competition.

Temple of Hera, Olympia, Greece

In ancient times, a flame was kept burning during the Olympic games as a symbol to honor the gods. In modern times, the flame has become a symbol of the competitive spirit of the games.

The flame is lit at the Temple of Hera, at the ancient temple site in Olympia, Greece. The temple is the oldest of the temples on the grounds, and has been restored somewhat after an earthquake struck the area nearly two thousand years ago.

A few months in advance of the games, women representing the vestal virgins who once presided over the temple light a flame using a parabolic mirror, marking the countdown to the Olympics.

Ruins of Olympia (site of the ancient Olympic Games)

Nahara, Fukushima, Japan

In March 2020, the flame was already on its procession in Japan when the games were cancelled. The flame was stored in the National Stadium, waiting to continue the journey.

Exactly one year later than scheduled, the journey began again. The first destination in Japan held great significance, as Fukushima is one of the areas hardest hit by the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck the country in 2011.

The flame traveled across Japan, and the lighting of the cauldron in the Tokyo National Stadium was an important part of the opening ceremony on July 23.

Fukushima-Daini nuclear powerplant

National Stadium, Tokyo, Japan

The National Stadium in downtown Tokyo was entirely rebuilt in anticipation of the summer games, at a cost of $1.4 billion. It was designed with traditional Japanese architecture in mind, and has both metal and wood throughout, including wood from all 47 prefectures in the country. It can hold 68,000 people, and has a partially-covered roof, as well as live plants built into the actual structure.

The stadium will be used for the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as track and field, women’s soccer finals, and other events. This is the center of the games, and from the opening ceremony to the end of the closing events, it will be here that the Olympic flame will burn.

Olympic Stadium - Tokyo

Yoyogi National Gymnasium, Tokyo, Japan

Japan hosted the 1964 Olympics, and built several sports facilities for the events. The Yoyogi National Gymnasium was revolutionary when it was built, and still sticks out today with its famous suspension roof.

The arena can hold about 13, 000 spectators, and hosts concerts, as well as hockey, futsal, and basketball events. This summer, the handball events will be played here.

Yoyogi National Gymnasium

Sapporo Dome, Sapporo, Japan

While the games are centered in the capital city, events are spread around the country both to promote the best experience for the athletes and to bring the games to the people of Japan. Soccer games in particular will be played around the country.

Preliminary soccer games will be held in the Sapporo Dome, in Sapporo, in northern Japan. The stadium is used for both soccer and basketball games, and was a venue for the 2002 men’s FIFA World Cup.

Sapporo Dome

Nippon Budokan, Tokyo, Japan

Another legacy stadium from the 1964 Olympics is the Nippon Budokan, which was built to host the judo competitions. Since then, the venue has been used to host many martial arts competitions (“budokan” translates into “martial arts hall”). But perhaps the most famous entertainment was when the Beatles performed there in 1966.

This year, judo and karate competitions will be held here, similar to the 1964 Olympics.

Nippon Budokan

Tokyo Big Sight, Tokyo, Japan

The Tokyo International Convention Center, known as the “Big Sight” is a large convention and expo center in the harbor area of Tokyo. The structure is a distinctive feature in the Tokyo skyline, with the eight-story inverted four pyramid conference tower topping off the building.

The Big Sight will be the dedicated media center for the Tokyo Olympics, hosting broadcasts, press events, and the media for the games.

Tokyo Big Sight

Fukushima Azuma Baseball Stadium, Fukushima, Japan

Japan is a baseball-crazy country, which is why the sport has been brought back for the competition in 2021. Some of the first games will be played at the Fukushima Azuma Baseball Stadium, which was built in 1986 and can hold up to 30,000 people.

The location was chosen to honor the region, still recovering from the earthquake and tsunami a decade ago.

Fukushima Azuma Baseball Stadium

Yokohama Stadium, Yokohama, Japan

After some preliminary rounds are played in Fukushima, the remainder of the baseball and softball competition will take place in the Yokohama Stadium, in Yokohama, which is just outside Tokyo.

The stadium, which holds about 35,000 spectators, will be a prominent feature for Japanese viewers of the games, as they tune into see their home team compete against the world on their soil.

Yokohama Stadium

There is no substitute for the excitement and magic that surround the Olympics. The amazing opening ceremony will introduce Japan to the world, with their unique culture, music, history, and style on display.

The athletes will represent their nations in friendly competition on a world stage. The closing ceremonies will highlight the friendships made, the victories achieved, and then at the end, it will introduce the world to the next summer Olympic host: Paris.

And at the end of it all, the flame will go out.

Until 2024.

July 17, 2021July 13, 2021

July’s Deep Dive into History: Russia’s Last Czar

Czar Nicholas II of Russia and his family met a tragic end on July 17, 1918, when they were executed by Bolshevik revolutionaries in an effort to quell any potential uprising in support of the Czar and his family.

On this historic date, let’s take a look back at the life and death of the last Czar of Russia.

Alexander Palace, St. Petersburg, Russia

Nicholas was born on May 18, 1868 in the Alexander Palace, outside St. Petersburg. He was the heir-apparent to the third-largest empire in history, spanning three continents and including more than 125 million people.

The Alexander Palace was built by Catherine the Great for her favorite grandson. Czar Nicholas and his family loved the palace, and it was one of their preferred residences.

After Nicholas abdicated the throne, the family resided here until they were moved to their final residence in Yekaterinburg.

Alexander Palace

Livadia Palace, Livadiya, Crimea

The Romanov dynasty owned estates across the empire, including an estate in Livadiya, Crimea in present day Ukraine. It was in a palace here that Nicholas’s father died, and Nicholas was consecrated as Czar Nicholas II.

The czar broke ground on a new palace in 1909. The family spent many of their summers at the new palace, which had 116 rooms, and an exterior structure with four unique facades, all made of Crimean limestone with marble features.

The palace was later the site of the important Yalta Conference that helped map out the post-war landscape between the Allied victors at the end of World War II.

Livadia Palace

Dormition Cathedral, Moscow, Russia

For 350 years, the Dormition Cathedral inside the Kremin in Moscow was the site of the coronation of Russian monarchs. Nicholas was crowned czar of Russia on May 26, 1896. His coronation was the last.

The next day, during a celebration set for the people of Moscow, nearly 1,000 people were killed due to poor crowd control. That night, Nicholas and his wife Alexandra, were obligated to attend a formal gala, but the people of Moscow resented the action and never forgave their new czar for his perceived disregard for their suffering.

Dormition Cathedral

Winter Palace, St. Petersburg, Russia

The Winter Palace in St. Petersburg was the official palace of the Russian Czar for nearly two hundred years. It was designed and built in the 1750s, and was a massive, impressive palace fit for the large empire arriving on the national stage.

The palace is reported to have 1,500 rooms, 1,800 doors, and nearly 2,000 windows. It is more than 500 feet long and 100 feet high.

By the time Nicholas II was Czar, the palace was reserved for formal events, due to security concerns. Czar Alexander II had been shot nearby and passed away in the palace, and after that, the Romanov family didn’t feel safe there.

Even though the royal family did not live in the palace, it was still the symbol of imperialism that the Bolsheviks fought against, and it was the site of several riots.

Winter Palace

Birthplace of Rasputin, Tyumen, Siberia

Nicholas and Alexandra had four daughters, and finally, in 1904, a son. Alexi was born with hemophilia, a blood disorder that left him at risk of severe bleeding from minor injuries. Alexandra especially sought to help Alexi, and reached out to anyone peddling a cure.

Grigori Yefimovich Rasputin, a Siberian peasant and self-proclaimed holy man, found his way into the Czarina’s good graces. He came from Tyumen, a small village in Siberia, the cold central region of Russia.

Pokrovskoye - Rasputin's place of birth

Murder Site, Moika Palace, St. Petersburg, Russia

Yekaterinburg

As Alexi’s health continued to worsen, Alexandra relied more and more on the healer. Many people, including several nobles, resented this influence at a time when the Czarina was largely ruling the country.

A group of men conspired to murder Rasputin. According to lore, on December 30, 1916, he was poisoned, poisoned again, and shot three times at point blank, but only succumbed to his injuries after being dropped into a freezing river with his hands tied.

No matter, he did die that night, at the Moika Palace. The noble family who owned the palace were incredibly wealthy, and owned more than 40,000 works of art, including works by Rembrandt and other famous artists. The home is now a museum, so visitors with a sense of history, or a morbid curiosity, can take a tour of a famous crime scene.

Moika Palace - Rasputin's place of death

Murder Site of the Romanov Family, Yekaterinburg, Russia

As Russia exited World War I, beaten, broke, and divided, political unrest overtook the country. The czar and his family were targeted by the powerful Bolsheviks, who advocated a policy that was later labeled communism.

Nicholas abdicated the throne and fled with his family, first to the Alexander Palace. They eventually ended up in Yekaterinburg, a thousand miles from Moscow.

In the early morning of July 17, 1918, the family was woken up and taken to the basement of the house. There, they were met with a firing squad. Because the women had sewn jewels into their clothes, it took several shots for them to die, dragging out the scene tragically.

Yekaterinburg

Burial Site, Yekaterinburg, Russia

Shortly thereafter, the bodies were buried in an unmarked grave nearby. It wasn’t until 1979 that some of the bodies were discovered. The remaining two were discovered in 1998. Genetic testing on the family members proved conclusively that the remains were the Romanov family and their trusted servants.

Romanov (Tsar Nicholas II) family former burial site

Final Resting Place, Peter and Paul Cathedral, St. Petersburg, Russia

After more than 75 years of communist rule, the Soviet government collapsed. This and many other events have led to a restored reputation of Nicholas and his family. They have been interred in the Peter and Paul Cathedral alongside nearly every other great Russian monarch.

The family have also been recognized as saints in the Russian Orthodox Church.

Romanov (Tsar Nicholas II) family former burial site

Nicholas, while he was widely regarded as a weak leader, was a wonderful father and husband. He loved his family, did everything he could to protect them, and looked out for their comfort and safety until the very last moments of their lives. No matter his governing, he will be remembered for doing his best for his loved ones.

July 9, 2021

NBA Stars in the Playoffs

As the NBA Finals are in full swing, let’s take a look at some of the players who have made an appearance this postseason.

Chris Paul

Leading the Phoenix Suns in their pursuit of their first National Championship, Chris Paul is working overtime. After spending much of his career with the LA Clippers, he was traded to Houston, then Oklahoma City, before landing in Phoenix in 2020.

The vegan veteran athlete has taken the team to new heights, and is showing he’s worth his $41 million salary! He has bounced around so much recently, he’s barely had time to sell his massive modern mansion in Houston.

The mansion was on the market for $8 million, but reduced to $7.2 million before it finally sold in January 2021. Whoever got the home will enjoy the five bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and private balconies, steel-framed interior, Texas limestone finishes, and imported French roof tiles.

Chris Paul's House

LeBron James

While his team didn’t make it past the first round, LeBron James still dominates the postseason conversation, because of his overwhelming influence on his team and on the league overall. He’s been playing for nearly 20 years, has amassed a fortune of half a billion dollars, and four championship rings.

Fairlawn, Ohio

LeBron grew up in Akron, Ohio, and played much of his career in Cleveland. While there, he bought a home on seven acres and promptly turned it into a 30,000 square foot paradise. The house has a two-story master suite, an aquarium, barber shop, full gym, and sports bar.

Lebron James' House

Brentwood, California

In 2015, James bought a mansion in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles for $21 million. But in 2017, he bought a better Brentwood home for $23 million. This home has eight bedrooms, massive kitchen, full gym, 15,000 bottle wine cellar, cigar lounge, and bar. Reports are that it’s going to be on the market this summer as the family upgrades, once again.

LeBron James's House

New Home in Beverly Hills, California

James reportedly bought a third LA-area home in 2020. This home was owned by a Hollywood powerhouse couple, and is a great fit for James and his family. It has the privacy he needs, as well as enough space to really feel comfortable. It is on 2.5 acres, but close to downtown LA, has a pool, tennis court, and more amenities fit for King James.

William J. Bell's House (Deceased)

Rudy Gobert

While Rudy’s Utah Jazz came into the Playoffs with the best record in the NBA and a serious chance to win it all, injuries kept the team from reaching their goal. But Rudy was a standout player this season, winning Defensive Player of the Year for the third time. The French player gained notoriety in March 2020, when he was the first player diagnosed with Covid-19. In December 2020, he was given a $205 million contract extension, one of the largest in NBA history!

Rudy lives in Salt Lake City, in a hillside mansion that he paid nearly $4 million for in 2017. It has 11,000 square feet of living space, a billiards table in the front room, a tennis court, and newly-installed pool where the 7-foot center can relax all summer.

Rudy Gobert's House

Paul George

Paul George has been playing in the NBA for a decade, but ended up back in his hometown area of Los Angeles in 2019 when he was traded to the Clippers. Happy to be back on the west coast, Paul bought the house of another NBA star, DeAndre Jordan, who now plays for the Brooklyn Nets.

He bought the home for $16 million, which has 10,000 square feet of living space, seven bedrooms and ten bathrooms, three stories, and an elevator. Outside, there’s a putting green, pool with a waterfall, and even an outdoor kitchen. Although his Clippers didn’t make it past the second round, he’s sure to soothe his feelings, and his aching muscles, in the spa-like bath in his owner’s suite.

Paul George's House

Ben Simmons

Ben Simmons is an up and coming basketball star from Australia. He was the first overall draft pick in 2016, has dated a Kardashian, and is sure to be a powerhouse team leader for years to come. He has helped his team, the Philadelphia 76ers, make the playoffs every year.

He bought a house in the Hidden Hills area of Los Angeles in 2021 for $17.5 million. The modern-looking mansion has seven bedrooms, eight bathrooms, unique and funky decor, and even a kitchen dedicated to candy! Only a basketball star could get away with that! There’s a guest house by the pool fancier and bigger than most homes.

Ben Simmons' House

These are some of the stars of the 2020-2021 season, but the season isn’t over yet; and we have a few more games to go before we find out who will need to make room for a championship ring display, and who will go back to their mansions empty handed.

July 6, 2021December 31, 2021

Happy Birthday, Sly!

Sylvester Stallone turns 75 today! On this milestone birthday, let’s take a look back at the Hollywood legend’s life, and check out the new home where he’ll probably be blowing out one great cake to celebrate another trip around the sun.

New Home in Palm Beach, Florida

Sylvester and his wife, Jennifer Flavin, bought an estate in Palm Beach, Florida in December 2020. The $35 million, 1.5 acre property has a main house, guest house, pool pavilion, and 250 feet of private waterfront access.

The 10,500 square foot main house has five bedrooms, a temperature-controlled wine room, and a great gym, of course. The house increased more than $10 million from when it was last sold just two years ago!

Sylvester Stallone & Jennifer Flavin's House

Former Mansion, Beverly Hills, California

Sylvester built a custom mansion in 1994, which boasts more than 21,000 square feet of living space, on 3.5 acres in one of the nicest areas in southern California. It includes eight bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, massive library, and even an entire wing dedicated to the “service”. The mansion was decorated with lots of Rocky memorabilia, including a life-size statute of the boxer himself.

The house also has a guest house, massive pool, gorgeous views of the city and valleys, and even a putting course. The house was originally listed for $110 million in December 2020, but appears to have been reduced to $85 million this spring.

Adele's House (Formerly Sylvester Stallone's)

Childhood Home, Silver Spring, Maryland

Sylvester was born in Hells Kitchen, New York but when he was five, his family moved to Maryland. He lived here until he was about 15, when he moved to Philadelphia to live with his mother.

The 2,500 square foot home was built in 1952, and has four bedrooms and a fully furnished walk-out basement. The house was on the market for $719,000 in 2020, and sold for just under $700,000.

Sylvester Stallone's childhood house

Former Home of Sage Stallone, Los Angeles, California

Sylvester is a very successful actor, producer, writer, and director. But his life has been filled with challenges, some very significant. One child was diagnosed with autism at an early age. Another son, Sage, was developing a career as an actor when he passed away at his Mulholland Terrace home. Sage passed away from an undiagnosed heart condition.

The home, which has three bedrooms and four bathrooms, sold after his death for about $1.8 million.

Sage Stallone's House

Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Sylvester’s career took off when he wrote and starred in the drama Rocky in 1976. The story focuses on a working class boxer who competes for the world heavyweight boxing championship. Rocky trains, often in unconventional ways, as he works toward the chance of a lifetime.

One of the most iconic scenes of the film, and in all of cinema, is the triumphant training montage that ends with Rocky running up the 72 steps outside the building. With the now-classic theme song playing in the background, Rocky reaches the top, and stands victorious, knowing he has done all he can before the competition.

These steps are now known as the “Rocky Steps” and countless visitors have run, or walked up the steps, no doubt with the familiar theme song playing in their head. In fact, the stairs are one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Rocky’s House, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Much of Rocky was filmed in Philadelphia, and many of the places are still recognizable today. This home, which is a private residence, was filmed for three movies.

In true Philly style, the house looks pretty much like it did in the installments of the Rocky franchise.

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Rocky Statue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Rocky highlighted a true working-class culture in Philadelphia, and romanticized the working class hero of the people. The city has embraced the reputation, as it fits so well.

A statue was erected in real life for filming in Rocky III, but the statue was left up. In 2006, it was moved to be close to the “Rocky Steps”, and tourists love to take a picture with the victorious boxing champ.

Rocky Balboa's doorstep

Rocky launched Sly’s career, and the icon has embraced the gritty reputation. It has garnered him Academy Award nominations, other awards, accolades, and massive financial success. It even contributed to a second season of film success, with the rejuvenation of the franchise with Michael B. Jordan.

As he turns 75, Sylvester is sure to look back and reflect on his life. Looking over his massive estate in Florida, he can probably find a lot to be grateful for, and a lot to be proud of. So, happy birthday, Sly!

June 25, 2021May 16, 2021

American Airports

Travel these days is so common that we hardly think about where we are when we’re in the middle of our trip, but airports are fascinating ecosystems, with restaurants, retail shops, entertainment and even hotels within or attached to the buildings.

Here are some of the biggest and most important airports in the United States.

Hartsfied-Jackson International Airport

The world’s busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is located in Atlanta, GA. It handles nearly a million flights a year, with 100 million passengers. However, because the airport is well-designed and constantly updated to handle the growth in travel, passengers passing through don’t often realize just how big and busy the airport is.

The airport caters to its guests by providing streamlined transportation including “plane trains” to help travelers get from one flight to the next quickly, a variety of fast food and sit-down restaurants, including a very-popular Chick-fil-A, a hometown Atlanta fast food favorite and treat for visitors.

Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL)

Los Angeles International Airport

The Los Angeles International Airport, or LAX, is the second largest airport in the United States, and one of the busiest in the world. It is also one of the most famous, due to its proximity to Los Angeles and all of the Hollywood celebrities that travel around the world from LAX.

Even if you’re not a celebrity, LAX is a cool airport. There are many upscale restaurants in every terminal, as well as high end shopping and entertainment. There are also several full-service spas and lounges for those who really want to relax between flights. And of course, because you’re in LA, if your layover is long enough, you can hit the beach!

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Ronald Reagan National Airport

While not the largest airport, Ronald Reagan National Airport, located just outside Washington, D.C., is one of the most important airports because it shuttles lawmakers, government officials and international leaders to and from Washington, D.C.

Because of its proximity to D.C., the airport has significant regulations relating to the size and type of aircraft that can service the airport, as well as restrictions on noise and times planes and land at the airport. Visitors with a few hours between flights can hop on the Metro and start touring Washington, D.C. within just a few minutes!

Reagan National Airport (DCA)

John F. Kennedy International Airport

While not the busiest airport overall, John F. Kennedy, or JFK, is the busiest international airport in the United States. From JFK, you can travel to anywhere in the inhabited world.

Like LAX on the west coast, JFK is a hotbed of celebrity travel, but even more, musicians have recently performed at a series of concerts hosted by JetBlue. The Tom Hanks movie Terminal was filmed at JFK in 2002.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

O’Hare International Airport

Often competing with Atlanta for title of world’s busiest airport, O’Hare International Airport in Chicago, is currently the second busiest airport in the world. While many people love O’Hare because of the amenities and options available at the airport, it is constantly ranked among the worst in the United States for delays and cancellations. This is partly because of its location in Illinois, where it is subjected to harsh weather conditions both in summer, with wind, rain and lightning storms, as well as in winter, with potential for intense snowstorms that can delay even the most prepared airports like O’Hare.

If you get stuck at O’Hare, don’t worry; there are many amenities and restaurants to keep you entertained and fed until your flight is ready, and with an announced $8 billion renovation, things will only get better for travelers.

O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

The next time you’re flying, take a minute to check out the airport. Whether it’s one of these, or one of the hundreds of airports across the county, you will be surprised at just how much the airport has to offer you on your short stay.

June 22, 2021May 16, 2021

It Pays to Be Funny! Late Night Comedian Houses

Your 8th grade science teacher may have told you cracking jokes wouldn’t pay the bills, but these late night talk show hosts are proof that teachers aren’t always right.

From Jay Leno to Jimmy Fallon, these guys made it big by being funny, and are laughing all the way home.

Jay Leno

Jay Leno knows how to make a living making people laugh. He was a standup comedian for years, becoming a regular on late night shows like the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. In 1992, he took over the show, and reigned supreme for most of the next 22 years.

Leno has been so successful that he owns multiple homes around the United States, including one in Rhode Island, which set him back about $13.5 million.

Jay Leno's House

He also owns two neighboring properties in an upscale area of Los Angeles California.

Jay Leno's House

He owns yet another house in his hometown of Andover, Massachusetts, but doesn’t spent very much time there.

Jay Leno's House

He has long been known for his enormous car collection, owning at least 169 cars and over 100 motorcycles. He spends much of his free time working on or looking at cars, and has multiple garages to store all of his vehicles.

Jay Leno's "Big Dog Garage"

David Letterman

Starting long before and outlasting Leno, Letterman started hosting Late Night with David Letterman in 1982, and hosted his last show in 2015, with Stephen Colbert taking over. Letterman has since grown a massive beard, spoken out about political issues and even hosted a TV interview series on Netflix.

Letterman owns several houses throughout the US, including in North Salem New York. He bought the house and property in two phases, for a total of $10 million. He is worth over $400 million; his hard work has clearly paid off!

David Letterman's House

Jimmy Fallon

Jimmy Fallon rose to fame on Saturday Night Live where he developed a unique and recognizable style of comedy, including hosting segments of Weekend Update. After leaving the show in 2004, Fallon got a late night talk show on NBC in 2009, and eventually took over The Tonight Show from Jay Leno in 2014.

Fallon’s hosting style has been groundbreaking, being more interactive with guests, participating in humorous gags, skits, and musical segments rather than sticking to couch interviews.

Fallon and his wife a nice apartment in a co-op in Gramercy Park, in New York City. They have actually bought four additional units in the building, showing how much they love their building and their neighborhood!

Jimmy Fallon's Apartment

They also own a home in Sagaopnack, in the Hamptons, New York. They bought the home in 2011 for about $5.7 million, and enjoy relaxing in the 6 bedroom home and the 2 acre lot, a nice change from the urban life in New York City.

Jimmy Fallon's House

Jimmy Kimmel

Jimmy Kimmel rose to fame hosting shows on Comedy Central, before he became host of the late night talk show Jimmy Kimmel Live! in 2003. He has also hosted the Emmys and Oscars.

Kimmel’s show is based in Los Angeles, and the comedian has multiple homes in the area, including a large home in Hollywood Hills, with new neighbor Kendall Jenner.

Jimmy Kimmel's House

He also owns two homes in the same area of Hermosa Beach, Los Angeles.

Jimmy Kimmel's House

Conan O’Brien

Conan O’Brien was a long-time comedian who took over when David Letterman left The Late Night and NBC in 1993. O’Brien hosted the show for 16 years, before briefly taking over The Tonight Show in 2010. However, network politics and ratings issues forced Conan out not long into his new gig, and he quickly found a permanent fit hosting Conan on TBS.

Conan has a quirky and self-deprecating sense of humor that appeal to many late night viewers, and his cable spot gives him more leeway to explore new areas of comedy including skits, gags and remote short movies.

O’Brien hosts his show in New York City, and he has a residence there as well as a large home in Rhode Island, where he and his family often reside.

Conan O'Brien's House

When O’Brien moved to Los Angeles to host The Tonight Show, he bought a home in the Pacific Palisades area, and he has kept it even after moving back to the East Coast.

Conan O'Brien's House

Each of these comedians have worked hard and had lucky breaks help get them to the top of their game, but their ambition, effort and determination demonstrate that, no matter what you’re good at, if you work hard enough, you can make a living doing what you love.

June 18, 2021May 16, 2021

Happy Birthday, Paul McCartney

Paul McCartney is one of the most talented and influential musicians of the last 100 years.

Today he turns 79, so let’s take a look back at some of the most important places in his life and career, and where he might be celebrating his birthday this year.

Childhood Home, Liverpool, UK

Paul McCartney was born on June 18, 1942 in Liverpool, England. When he was a teenager, he moved to this home on Forthlin Road.

When the Beatles were just starting out, the group would meet at this home and practice, write songs, and hang out. While Paul certainly imagined being a famous musician, it’s likely that he never would have imagined that those afternoon practices would lead to him becoming one of the most famous and wealthy musicians of all time. As of 2021, his net worth was estimated at more than a billion dollars!

The British National Trust acquired the home in 1995, and has labeled it as the “Birthplace of the Beatles”. On an episode of Carpool Karaoke, Paul and the host James Corden visited the home, and Paul said it was the first time he’d been back since his teenage years.

Paul McCartney's Childhood House

St. Peter’s Church, Woolton Parish, Liverpool, UK

From a young age, Paul McCartney loved music and wanted to be a professional musician. By his teens, he was serious about the pursuit. When he was 15, Paul met John Lennon at St. Peter’s Church in Liverpool, where John was performing with his own band.

The two connected and quickly formed a new band. The place was very important to the group. In fact, it’s here where the band got the idea for the song “Eleanor Rigby”. The name is found on one of the cemetery’s headstones. The song was featured on their Revolver album, and was one of Paul’s most famous, and most beautiful, compositions.

Paul McCartney and John Lennons first meeting place

Ranch in Tanque Verde, AZ

Paul met his first wife, Linda, at the height of his fame, and the two were married in 1969. They were together until she passed away from breast cancer in 1998.

The couple bought an Arizona ranch in 1979, because Linda had spent much time in the state, and loved being in the desert environment. The Tanque Verde ranch is about 150 acres, near Tuscon.

The home is not grand, but it was perfect for long visits while raising their four kids. Linda passed away at the ranch, and some of her ashes were scattered around the property.

Paul McCartney's Ranch

London Residence, UK

Paul bought a townhouse way back in 1965 in London’s St. John’s Wood. Through all his career growth, different relationships, and life changes, he’s always kept this as a main property. In fact, the wedding reception for his marriage to Nancy Shevall was held here.

He paid about $1 million in today’s dollars for the three story structure. His investment has paid off; recently, a fixer-upper went on the market for about $25 million! He’s done extensive renovations, including adding a gate and security system. He also has a home recording studio, of course.

Paul McCartney's House

Peasmarch in Rye, Sussex, UK

Paul likes to buy real estate and hold onto it, unlike many other celebrities. In 1973, he bought an estate in Rye, and has kept it ever since. He and Linda raised their family there, and loved the low-key lifestyle it afforded them.

In fact, this is where he spent much of his quarantine in 2020, with one of his daughters and her family. The large house and sprawling grounds are a perfect place to quarantine.

This isn’t the only home he owns in the area. He has bought property and other homes both to ensure his privacy, and for investment purposes. All told, it is estimated he owns more than 1,500 acres in the area.

Paul McCartney's House

Stella McCartney’s Home in Pershore, UK

Paul isn’t the only famous and successful McCartney in England these days. His daughter Stella has become an internationally-famous clothing designer, first for Gucci and now under her own name.

Stella and her husband Alasdhair Willis bought a lovely estate in Bishamtpon, in Worcestershire, England. They have lived there since 2001, and have become regular sites in the small village since.

As of 2021, Stella’s net worth is abut $75 million, and she has used her money to make considerable improvements to the once-dilapidated Georgian structure they call home. They have placed specific emphasis on the multiple gardens they’ve cultivated on the grounds.

Stella McCartney's UK Mansion

Because Paul is a bit of a homebody when he’s not touring, and because of Covid-19, it’s likely Paul will spend his birthday at his Rye estate. He’ll probably be surrounded by family, and maybe they’ll even sing the Beatles anthem “Birthday” to their dad and grandpa.

Happy Birthday, Paul!

June 12, 2021May 16, 2021

June’s Deep Dive into History: Remembering Anne Frank

Annelies “Anne” Frank was born on June 12, 1929. She started out as every other youth, carefree and full of dreams for her future. But by the time she died before her 16th birthday, she had gone through what no one should have to. Because she wrote down her experiences, as well as her thoughts, dreams, and fears, the world knows more about the Holocaust.

Let’s take a deep dive into Anne’s life, and learn more about how the world can be torn apart by hate, and that each person matters.

Frankfurt, Germany

Anne Frank was born in Frankfurt, Germany, on June 12, 1929. She had a happy childhood, in spite of the tumult developing in her native country.

The Frankfurt Cathedral in downtown Frankfurt is near the clinic where she was born. The famous cathedral is a central landmark of the city, and has played an important role both religiously and culturally for eight hundred years.

The church’s 328 foot tower was added in the 1500s, and is one of most striking architectural features in the city. Visitors can climb the 328 stairs to the top, to enjoy a vista of the ancient German city.

Frankfurt Cathedral

Amsterdam, Holland

Due to political unrest in Germany and increasing hostility against Jews, the Frank family fled to Holland, now known as the Netherlands in 1933. Otto, Anne’s dad, was able to start a business, and the family settled into their new lives.

Close to Otto’s business and in the heart of downtown, the Royal Palace is a major landmark. It was built in the 1600s, and turned into a palace by Napoleon’s brother, King Louis Napoleon, in 1809.

Those who visit and enjoy the architecture and beauty of the palace and adjacent Dam Square can think that Anne may have walked the same streets during happier days in Amsterdam.

Royal Palace of Amsterdam

The Secret Annex, Amsterdam, Holland

In July 1942, Anne and her family were forced to hide in a hidden apartment in the building of her father’s business. For the next two years and one month, the family of four, plus four others, were crammed into a 450 square foot area.

There, Anne wrote in a journal she’d received for her birthday. Her thorough document what it was like as a Jew under Hitler’s rule, and about life in hiding. She also wrote eloquently about her dreams of being a writer, as well as other feelings about boys, love, and life in general.

On August 4, 1944, the entire group was discovered and arrested, along with the people who helped them on the outside.

Anne Frank's House (Former)

Camp Westerbork, Holland

After being discovered by the Nazis, Anne and the other hiding with her were taking to Camp Westerbork. The camp had originally been created to house Jewish refugees coming into the Netherlands. However, it was taken over when the Nazis invaded.

The camp was used as a transit camp, taking Jews captured in Holland and preparing them to be shipped to other concentration camps throughout conquered Nazi territory.

The camp had a hair salon, school, restaurants, and other facilities designed to give the Jews a false sense of security and make them easier to control as they were selected to be sent to work camps or death camps. Over the course of the war, nearly 100,000 individuals passed through the camp, nearly all of them sent to their eventual death at a concentration camp.

Westerbork Concentration Camp

Auschwitz-Birkenau, Poland

On September 3, 1944, Anne and the others arrested from the Annex were put on trains and shipped to Auschwitz-Birkenau. When the group arrived in the camp, they were separated, tattooed, and put to work doing hard labor for the Nazis.

Auschwitz was a group of more than 40 camps divided into work and extermination camps, and were the site of more than one million deaths at the hands of the Nazis. They were opened in 1940, at the start of Hitler’s attack on Jews, Roma, homosexuals, and those who didn’t conform to his fascist policies.

The camps were liberated on January 27, 1945, by Soviet troops. But by that time, most of the prisoners, including Anne, her sister Margot, had been moved to other camps to keep working for the Nazis. Anne’s mother, Edith, passed away from starvation at Auschwitz on January 6, just days before the camp was liberated.

Former Nazi German Concentration Camp of Auschwitz-Birkenau

Bergen-Belsen Concentration Camp, Germany

Anne and Margot were shipped to Bergen-Belsen in northern Germany. It was originally a prisoner of war camp, but turned into a concentration camp as the war progressed.

Anne and Margot were forced to live in unsuitable conditions and work as slave labor. Margot and Anne died in February 1945, likely of typhus, which was raging in the camp at the time. Their actual death dates and causes of death are not known, but speculated based on interviews with friends and bunk mates.

Only two months later, the camp was liberated by British soldiers, on April 15, 1945.

Bergen-Belsen concentration camp

Memorial at Bergen-Belsen

There is a memorial to Margot and Anne Frank at Bergen-Belsen. It is in the shape of a tombstone, with their names, and birth and death years.

The memorial is covered with small stones, which is meaningful in the Jewish tradition. Putting stones on the grave is a way of helping the soul find rest, and reminds the world that, although one is dead, they will not be forgotten.

Anne and Margot Franks Memorial Stone

After the war, Otto Frank returned to Amsterdam and collected the few belongings that had been saved after the raid on the hiding place. Among the items was Anne’s diary. Otto published the journal in 1947.

“The Diary of a Young Girl” has done more to educate people about the Holocaust than perhaps any other piece of work. Published in more than 70 languages, it also fulfilled Anne’s childhood dream of becoming an author and journalist.

Anne’s journal helps us all to never forget the tragedy of the Holocaust. It is only by remembering that we can ensure that it will never happen again.