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5 Extraordinary Celebrity Houses, Including One Converted From a Fire Station

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These five celebrities have elevated home design, converting fire stations, barns, and other structures into their distinctive and inviting residences.

They have seamlessly blended the old and the new, rustic and modern elements, and art and nature in their homes. The result is not just comfortable and functional living spaces but also a reflection of their individual styles and passions…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

From Cooper’s painstakingly restored firehouse in Greenwich Village to McEntire’s “African Cowboy” style mansion in Nashville, these residences provide a peek into the lives of these celebrities. They unfold stories of personal preferences, architectural choices, and sometimes, historical connections.

Anderson Cooper’s Remarkable Firehouse Residence

Esteemed journalist Anderson Cooper has turned a firehouse into a one-of-a-kind and intimate retreat. Situated in Greenwich Village, New York, this 8,240-square-foot firehouse was acquired by Cooper in September 2010 for $4.3 million.

Built in 1906, the firehouse still retains its original brass fire poles, dry hoses, spiral staircases, and walls adorned with murals depicting the fire station’s history. Cooper dedicated years to meticulous restoration, adding an elevator and infusing it with his personal style.

The second floor features a salon adorned with taxidermy, Old Master paintings, and hand-painted signs collected by Cooper during his travels to Cuba and Africa. The living room showcases a side table with a Victorian calendar, a poignant memento from his mother’s bedroom, marking the date of his brother Carter Cooper’s passing.

The kitchen boasts an island, and personal artifacts, including his great-great-grandfather’s Civil War commissioning notice and a photo of a younger Anderson in Afghanistan, are displayed throughout the residence. An 18th-century Italian marble, Memento Mori, serves as another standout piece in this extraordinary dwelling.

In 2015, David Beckham and Kevin Hart shot an H&M campaign in Cooper’s home, offering fans a glimpse of the living room, gym, roof terrace, and one of the bedrooms. Today, this converted firehouse is a home where Cooper resides with his two sons, co-parenting with his ex-boyfriend, Benjamin Maisani.

Courteney Cox’s “Contemporary Barn” Residence

Beloved actress Courteney Cox, renowned for her role as Monica Geller in “Friends,” lives in a stunning residence in Malibu, California, designed to resemble a “modern barn.” This home reflects her passion for design and architecture, cultivated since her early days studying architecture.

Her residence is a seamless blend of mid-century modern forms and layered textures, capturing the relaxed California vibe. Elevated enough to offer sweeping ocean views, the house stands in contrast to her previous beach-level home.

The original structure, with its conventional design and deep brown color, has been reimagined into a minimalist haven with bronzed-steel trim, pristine white walls, and wooden floors.

Cox actively participated in the renovation, overseeing every detail. From the tennis court color to the choice of artwork, her personal influence is apparent in every corner of the house.

The glass walls allow an abundance of natural light, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The master bedroom extends to a deck, offering breathtaking views of the water.

Artwork from renowned artists adorns the living space, adding color and humor. Cox’s living room is dominated by a soothing neutral palette, with cream sofas complemented by chocolate-colored cushions.

Her contemporary and stylish kitchen features pale grey cabinets, white countertops, and open shelving displaying kitchenware and accessories.

The two-acre garden, complete with a terrace and sun loungers, provides a tranquil space for relaxation. An outdoor kitchen and dining area next to the pool serve as an ideal spot for hosting gatherings. Recently, Cox became an empty nester with her daughter, Coco, off to college.

Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis’ “Vintage Barn” Residence

Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis, the celebrated duo from “That ’70s Show,” have created a distinctive sanctuary in Los Angeles, resembling an old barn. Despite their wealth, the couple opted for a barn design, reflecting their preference for simplicity and comfort. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Married in 2015, they spent five years building their Los Angeles home on a six-acre property with the help of architect Howard Backen and interior designer Vicky Charles.

The couple envisioned a home, not an estate, that looked like an old barn converted into a modern and relevant space. Their tastes aligned almost perfectly, and architect Backen brought their farmhouse vision to life.

Built with family in mind, their home is a sanctuary where Kutcher and Kunis reside with their two children, embracing the joys of family life.

Jennifer Garner’s Family Farm Revival

Acclaimed actress Jennifer Garner, known for “Alias” and “13 Going on 30,” has a unique connection to her family’s past, brought to life through the farm her grandparents purchased in 1936 in Locust Grove, Oklahoma.

Bought for $700 during the Great Depression, the initially bare 20-acre plot included a two-bedroom farmhouse without running water or electricity. Garner bought the family farm in 2017, aiming to preserve her family’s legacy and contribute her touch.

Transformed into an organic farm supplying her children’s food range, “Once Upon A Farm,” Garner views gardening as a connection to the earth.

Balancing her acting career, Garner finds joy in the rhythm of farm life. The farm is now cared for by her uncle Robert and his wife Janet.

They cultivate organic produce and narrate tales about the land, preserving the family’s legacy. Garner’s rejuvenation of her family’s farm stands as a manifestation of her passion for gardening, sustainable living, and a tribute to her family’s history, showcasing her dedication to a wholesome lifestyle.

Reba McEntire’s Residence: A Fusion of African Cowboy Style

Reba McEntire, the revered country music icon, has fashioned a distinctive haven in Nashville, Tennessee, affectionately dubbed an “African Cowboy” style mansion. Her current residence is a testament to her unique style and profound love for design.

The house is adorned with a captivating blend of African and Western elements, featuring snapshots from her African safaris and Western-inspired decor, including dark woods, opulent leathers, and mounted steer heads.

The goal was to craft a home that authentically mirrors her personality and preferences. In McEntire’s words, “I love a home that is warm, inviting, and friendly. You never have to ask to take your shoes off at the door here!”

Her mansion offers a plethora of amenities designed for her comfort, coupled with stunning works of art. The house emanates warmth through its varied textures, and the kitchen is a welcoming space showcasing a breakfast counter with marble countertops and wooden-leather stools.

The vintage cream cabinets adorned with black handles, shelves displaying coffee mugs, an American-style fridge, and white flowers enhance the kitchen’s allure.

Seamlessly connected to the dining room, characterized by floor-to-ceiling windows and a wooden table, the living space exudes comfort with a plush cream-colored sofa topped with a blanket, a wooden side table adorned with family photographs, and a Christmas tree adorned with white crosses.

The residence also features a garden, where a black wicker dining table and matching chairs are strategically positioned. This “African Cowboy” style mansion serves as the shared home for McEntire and her partner, the renowned Hollywood actor Rex Linn, in a relationship since 2020.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Men Are Painting One Fingernail, There’s A Hidden Meaning Behind It Everyone Needs To Know –

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Men have been spotted walking around with a single fingernail painted on just one hand.

While it’s easy to see this sudden trend and assume that it’s just another ridiculous hipster fad that some guys have decided to join in on, there’s a much darker meaning behind it that others need to know.

In America, a whole new crew of famous guys are painting their nails. Well, nail. Zac Efron and sibling actors Liam and Chris Hemsworth (below) recently shared photos of themselves with one nail painted to support the Polished Man project; an initiative that calls on men to raise awareness about the one in five children around the world who experience physical and/or sexual violence before the age of 18. Donations to Polished Man support children’s trauma recovery and prevention programs all over the world…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

The first man behind the movement to paint his nail and pass the idea along was Elliot Costello, who met a little girl name Thea while he was travelling with a group called Hagar International. Elliot and the crew landed in Cambodia to see how they could make an impact in this underprivileged area.

But in turn, the tiniest villager left the biggest impression on Elliot, who realized an issue that’s much bigger than Cambodia and effects children all over the world, especially here in America.While getting to know little Thea, Elliot met her on her level and did things that she would think was fun. For this girly-girl, that meant painting nails.

He painted hers, and she painted one of his as they talked about her life and also her struggles. He learned that she had been sexually abused. In that moment between this man and little girl, as she put polish on one of his nails, he told her he’d always leave that finger painted to remember her, which also meant he’d remember her pain.

Elliot came out of this endearing interaction invigorated with ideas to make a change among men for the sake of children’s safety from sexual abusers. That’s when he came up with the Polished Man project, which encourages men to become a #PolishedMan by painting one fingernail for a week. That single nail on a hand of five nails, represents the 1 in 5 children who will tragically be a victim of sexual violence at some point in their lives. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

According to the Polished Man’s website dedicated to awareness to stop sexual violence against kids, “being a Polished Man means challenging violent behavior and language, both locally and globally.” Elliot found that men need to be the voice of change for this abuse on innocent children to end, since 96 percent of this type of violence on kids worldwide is perpetrated by males.

Ultimately, the hope is to not just see a bright nail on a guy and remember for a few moments that there are hundreds of thousands of children being abused each day and suffering the consequences from that for a lifetime.

Rather, Elliot would like the fingernail to be a start of a conversation about this sad reality, that could lead to more ideas to end it and maybe even donations to “support educational programs and resources for child survivors of abuse,” APlus reported.

The campaign recently took off. Hopefully, this means that you will see more men around town painting a nail in a bright eye-catching color.

If you see a guy sporting this style, ask him about it. If you are a man, paint one of your nails in remembrance of all the kids who don’t have a voice in the matter. Maybe a little boy or girl will see your nail, and it will brighten their day to know they aren’t forgotten about in their fight for their safety and innocence.

 

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The Full Story Of The Rivalry Between Fuji Icons Barrister And Kollington

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Those who grew up in the 1990s with songs from Tupac and Biggie would think music rivalry started with ‘Get Money’ and ‘Hit em all’, but for old school peeps, the rivalry between the two fuji musical taliban, Sikiru Ayinde Barrister and Ayinla Kollington, supersedes that of the former duo in a thousand times.

Barrister and Kollington took rivalry a higher level. Before them, people had speculated that there were some rivalry between Juju musical icons, Chief commander Ebenezer Obey and King Sunny Ade, but that was just a light and fun catching competition and neither did both of them dish out insults in the open…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

But Kebe n Kwara (Ayinla Kollington) and Alhaji Agba (Sikiru Ayinde Barrister) threw tantrums in well woven musical lines that sent fans wild in the dancing square. They battled for years, decades, their rivalry stoked in part by fans, rumors, banters and controversial recordings, especially by Kollington.

Rahman, a diehard fan of fuji music wrote: “There was no other place this battle was more vicious than in my parents living room. You see, my Dad was a diehard Kollington fan, while my Mum loved Barrister to pieces. So as a child, I grew up listening to music from both of them and learnt the songs whether I wanted to or not. I had no choice in the matter. Whenever my Dad was home, we listened and danced to Kollington. When he went to work or traveled, Barristers music ruled the household.

Somehow, I took a liking to Barristers blend of Fuji music. I felt he was more philosophical, poetic and matured in his rendition. Kollington on the other hand was more expressive, vulgar but also more entertaining. His brand of music was more danceable and more of alujo in delivery, I think. Their styles was also reflected in the manner they named their albums.

A few examples: For Barrister, there was Barry @40, Fuji Funky, Fuji Garbage Series, Barry Wonder, and New Dimension. For Kollington: Fuji Ropopo, Ijo Yoyo, Fuji Megastar & American Yankee”.

At the peak of their (Barrister and Kollington) supremacy battle, Barrister, consistent with his style, was always diplomatic in his responses to Kollington. Kollington, on the other hand, couldn’t care less. Tact was not one of his strong points. He let Barrister have it at every given opportunity. Although, neither of them ever used the others name in their fights, it was very obvious to keen observers and Fuji aficionados who Kollington was talking to.
They battled over everything; who went on tour first? Who made it to the USA first?
Who slept with whom first? Everything! And one could tell what the latest bone of contention was. If it was not reflected in the latest album title, you don’t have to listen to more than 5 minutes into the new album to figure it out.

Ayinla Kollington
Ayinla Kollington

Here are some of the battle scenes of Barrister and Kollington READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Traveling Overseas on Tour:

Barrister beat Kollington to this one. He went on tour of the Europe and the US long before Kollington. But Kollington wasn’t going to allow him any victory party because of that. He promptly released an album and said: Ile yi la o ti la o (We will become wealthy in this land) X 2ce
Mosalasi won ti ni ko nibii re (The mosque doesn’t have to go anywhere to get filled)
Ile yi la o ti la o (We will become wealthy in this land)

However, when Kollington eventually secured VISAS and a sponsor for his overseas tour, he forgot what he said about not having to travel overseas to become wealthy and quickly picked on a part of his rivals American Tour welcome album and used it to spite him.

Also, Barrister had sung about one of his drummers getting lost in Atlanta:
Nigbati a wa Ballinger titi ni Atlanta, taori Ballinger, opelope body pass tomu dani, loje ka foju kan Ballinger. Paraphrased (But for the body pass that Ballinger had with him in Atlanta, it would have been very difficult to locate him when he got lost)
What was Kollington’s response?
Ko ma seni to soonu ninu wa
Ko mama se ni to soonu ninu wa o
Eja ka wo ran niwon se o
Eja ka wo ran niwon tori ti aba rajo
Ko ma seni to sonu ninu wa
Paraphrased (None of my band members got lost on tour. Never allow yourself to be carried away by sights when you are on a trip)

Titles & Aliases

This particular battle is still on and will keep going on forever. When Barrister visited Disney World, Orlando, Florida in the early 80s, he came back home and released an album, singing about all the wonderful things he saw over there. After the album, the management of Disney World saw an influx of Nigerian tourists at their resort and wondered why. They later learnt it was because of a song the people had heard back home about Disney world. This eventually led to a university in Orlando honoring Barrister with an honorary doctorate degree in Music. That was how Barrister became Dr. Sikiru Ayinde Barrister.
Not one to be left out, Kollington quickly took on the alias Professor Master after he returned from his trip to the US. However, no one knew how he got that title.
Over the years, they both have taken on several aliases and titles.

Kollington was at a time General Kollington, a title bestowed on him by the military president Ibrahim Babangida after he sang about and created awareness for the Census. Barrister has been Alhaji Agba, Mr Fuji, Barry Wonder, Legend and he is not through yet.

Sikiru Ayinde Barrister
Sikiru Ayinde Barrister

Who Originated Fuji Music Between Barrister and Kollington?

This is a battle that will outlive both of them. In fact, at moment, practitioners in the Fuji music industry are divided into two camps: those who believe Barrister founded Fuji music and the others.

Barrister claimed that he evolved and modernized Fuji music, from were music in the early 70s. He once said that he came up with the name Fuji when he saw a poster at an airport advertising Mount Fuji, the highest peak in Japan. Kollington has another story of how Fuji started and it is completely different from Barrister’s account.

 

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HOT NEWS: Detective Sergeant Mabatho Siqwele Sent To Life Imprisonment Over Rape In Ladybrand Case

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In a landmark case, Detective Sergeant Mabatho Siqwele of the Ladybrand Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit successfully secured a life sentence for Thabiso Lilele (34), convicted of raping a 13-year-old girl. The incident occurred in Manyatseng, near Ladybrand, in the Free State.

The attack took place in 2022, when the victim, a resident of Manyatseng, was assaulted by Lilele, a known community member. Following the crime, the victim bravely came forward, which led to an intensive investigation by Siqwele…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

Detective Sergeant Siqwele’s thorough investigative work and dedication were instrumental in bringing Lilele to justice. The case was brought to trial in the Ladybrand Magistrate’s Court, where Lilele was found guilty and handed a life sentence. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Siqwele, a long-serving member of the FCS Unit, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing the importance of protecting vulnerable members of society, especially women and children. The conviction is seen as a victory for justice and a step forward in tackling the growing issue of gender-based violence in South Africa.

Community leaders and citizens of Ladybrand have praised the work of the FCS Unit, hailing it as a message that justice will be served.

 

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