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As we step into 2026, home remodeling NYC continues to evolve beyond aesthetics, focusing on functionality, sustainability and long-term value. Homeowners are increasingly aware that renovations are not just about creating beautiful spaces but also about enhancing property worth. From eco-friendly upgrades to smart technology integration, the remodeling trends of 2026 reflect a balance between modern living and investment strategy.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Renovations

One of the most significant remodeling trends in 2026 is the emphasis on sustainability. Homeowners are prioritizing energy-efficient solutions such as solar panels, green roofs and advanced insulation systems. These upgrades not only reduce utility costs but also increase resale value, as buyers are more inclined toward homes with lower environmental footprints. Water-saving fixtures, rainwater harvesting systems and sustainable building materials like bamboo and reclaimed wood are also gaining traction. The eco-conscious buyer of today sees these features as essential rather than optional, making them a smart investment for property owners.

Smart Home Technology Integration

Technology-driven remodeling is another area that adds substantial value. In 2026, smart home systems have become mainstream, with homeowners installing automated lighting, climate control and security systems. Voice-controlled appliances and AI-powered energy management tools are no longer futuristic luxuries but practical upgrades that enhance convenience and efficiency. Properties equipped with integrated smart systems are commanding higher prices in the real estate market, as buyers increasingly expect homes to be digitally connected.

Outdoor Living Spaces as Extensions of the Home

Outdoor spaces are being reimagined as functional extensions of indoor living. Patios, decks and landscaped gardens are now designed to serve as year-round entertainment zones. Features such as outdoor kitchens, fire pits and weather-resistant furniture are in demand, particularly in regions with varied climates. This trend reflects a growing desire for homes that support wellness and leisure, while also boosting property value. A well-designed outdoor living area can significantly increase the appeal of a home to potential buyers.

Kitchen and Bathroom Upgrades

Kitchens and bathrooms remain the most popular remodeling projects, but in 2026, the focus has shifted toward personalization and luxury. Kitchens are being designed with multifunctional islands, hidden storage solutions and sustainable appliances. Bathrooms, once considered secondary spaces, are now being elevated with spa-like features such as rainfall showers, heated floors and smart mirrors. These upgrades not only improve daily living but also deliver a strong return on investment, as buyers consistently rank modern kitchens and bathrooms among their top priorities.

Flexible and Multifunctional Spaces

The rise of remote work and hybrid lifestyles has made flexible spaces a remodeling priority. Homeowners are converting basements, attics and spare rooms into multifunctional areas that can serve as offices, gyms or guest suites. Movable partitions, modular furniture and adaptable layouts allow spaces to evolve with changing needs. This adaptability adds long-term value, as future buyers appreciate homes that can accommodate diverse lifestyles.

Wellness-Oriented Design

Health and wellness are central to remodeling trends in 2026. Natural light optimization, improved air quality systems and biophilic design elements are being incorporated into homes. Features such as meditation rooms, indoor gardens and circadian lighting systems are gaining popularity. These wellness-focused upgrades not only enhance quality of life but also differentiate properties in a competitive market, appealing to buyers who prioritize holistic living.

Conclusion

Home remodeling in 2026 is defined by a blend of sustainability, technology and lifestyle-driven design. Eco-friendly upgrades, smart home integration, outdoor living enhancements and wellness-oriented spaces are no longer passing fads but long-term investments that add real value to properties. For homeowners, the key is to prioritize renovations that align with both personal needs and market demand. By embracing these trends, property owners can ensure that their homes remain desirable, functional and profitable in the years ahead. Transform your living space with expert craftsmanship by visiting NYCrenovation.com, where modern design meets lasting quality.

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Artificial Intelligence, often called AI, is one of the most important technologies shaping the modern world. Although it may sound complex or futuristic, AI is already part of everyday life. From smartphones and social media to healthcare and transportation, AI helps machines perform tasks that usually require human intelligence. This simple guide explains what artificial intelligence is, how it works and why it matters in modern technology.

What Is Artificial Intelligence?

Artificial Intelligence refers to computer systems designed to think, learn and make decisions like humans. Instead of following only fixed instructions, AI systems can analyze data, recognize patterns and improve their performance over time. This ability allows machines to solve problems, understand language, identify images and even predict outcomes.
There are different types of AI, but most of the AI used today is known as narrow AI. Narrow AI is designed to perform specific tasks, such as voice recognition or product recommendations. More advanced AI, often called general AI, aims to perform a wide range of tasks like a human, but this level of intelligence is still under development.

How Does AI Work?

AI works by using large amounts of data, algorithms and computing power. One of the most common methods is machine learning, where computers learn from examples rather than being programmed step by step. For instance, an AI system trained to recognize faces studies thousands of images to learn distinguishing features.

Another important method is deep learning, which uses neural networks inspired by the human brain. These networks help AI systems handle complex tasks such as speech recognition, language translation and image analysis. As AI processes more data, it becomes more accurate and efficient.

AI in Everyday Technology

AI plays a major role in many technologies people use every day. Smartphones use AI for facial recognition, voice assistants, camera enhancements and predictive text. Social media platforms rely on AI to personalize content, recommend friends and filter inappropriate material.

Online shopping websites use AI to suggest products based on browsing history and preferences. Navigation apps like 55 club login use AI to analyze traffic patterns and provide the fastest routes. Streaming services recommend movies, music and shows using AI-driven algorithms.

AI in Healthcare and Education

In healthcare, AI is transforming how doctors diagnose and treat patients. AI systems analyze medical images, detect diseases early and assist in developing personalized treatment plans. These technologies help improve accuracy and save time for healthcare professionals.

In education, AI supports personalized learning by adapting lessons to students' abilities and learning styles. Virtual tutors, automated grading and learning analytics help teachers provide better support while making education more accessible.

AI in Business and Industry

Businesses use AI to improve efficiency and decision-making. In manufacturing, AI-powered robots handle repetitive tasks and quality control. In finance, AI detects fraud, manages risk and provides customer support through chatbots.

Customer service departments increasingly rely on AI to respond to inquiries quickly and accurately. These systems operate around the clock, improving user experience while reducing costs.

Benefits of Artificial Intelligence

AI offers many benefits, including increased efficiency, accuracy and convenience. It reduces human error, automates repetitive tasks and allows people to focus on creative and strategic work. AI also supports innovation by enabling new products, services and solutions that were previously impossible.

Challenges and Concerns

Despite its advantages, AI also presents challenges. Data privacy, security and ethical concerns are major issues. AI systems can sometimes show bias if trained on unbalanced data. There is also concern about job displacement as automation increases.

To address these challenges, governments and organizations are working on ethical guidelines and regulations to ensure responsible AI development and use.

The Future of AI

The future of AI looks promising. As technology continues to advance, AI will become even more integrated into daily life. Future developments may include smarter cities, improved healthcare systems and more personalized digital experiences.

Conclusion

Artificial Intelligence is a powerful tool driving modern technology. While it may seem complex, its core purpose is simple: to help machines think and act more intelligently. By understanding how AI works and how it is used, people can better prepare for a future where artificial intelligence plays an even greater role in shaping the world around us.

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The digital revolution has fundamentally reshaped the American gambling landscape, as well as globally. With the rapid expansion of online casinos across states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Michigan, millions of players now have a full suite of gaming options available at their fingertips.

Among the most thrilling developments has been the rise of live dealer games, which bridge the gap between virtual convenience and authentic casino action. While slots and blackjack have embraced this format, it's perhaps most keenly felt in poker, leading many to ponder, 'Can live dealer poker truly rival the experience of sitting at a physical table?'

Let's explore the key arguments for both sides in this captivating debate.

Why Live Dealer Poker Trumps the Real Thing:

Unmatched Convenience: You can join a poker game from your couch, during a lunch break or on vacation, eliminating travel time and costs entirely. The 24/7 availability means a table is always ready, no matter your schedule or location.

Lower Stakes and Accessibility: Online live tables often feature significantly lower minimums, making the game accessible to more players and ensuring a seat is always open. This allows beginners to learn and practice without substantial financial risk.

Generous Bonuses and Promotions: Online platforms frequently offer lucrative welcome bonuses, deposit matches and loyalty rewards that are typically more generous than land-based comps. These incentives provide more playing capital and can significantly enhance your bankroll.

Why the Real Thing Still Reigns Supreme:

The Human Element and Reading "Tells": Nothing beats the face-to-face interaction and the ability to observe subtle physical tells from opponents, adding a crucial layer of strategy often missed online. This psychological warfare and direct social engagement are core to live poker's appeal.

Immersive Atmosphere: The distinctive sounds of chips riffling, the collective tension of a big pot and the social buzz of a busy poker room create an irreplaceable energy. The vibrant environment provides an adrenaline rush and a genuine feeling of being part of a gambling community.

Direct Cash Handling and Immediate Payouts: Playing with physical chips and receiving instant cash payouts at the cage offers a tangible satisfaction and immediacy that digital transactions can't quite match. There's a certain psychological comfort in seeing and handling your winnings directly.

While live dealer poker has undoubtedly captured the imagination of many with its blend of convenience and authenticity, offering a vibrant, interactive experience powered by high-definition streaming and engaging dealers, it's also clear that it can't perfectly replicate every aspect of a physical game.

For those looking to dive deeper into the various online casino providers offering these experiences, and to read more about their offerings and reputations, dedicated resources are invaluable. The strategic depth of reading opponents' body language and the unique social dynamic of a live table remain powerful draws for traditionalists.

In conclusion, the "best" experience ultimately comes down to personal preference. Live dealer poker serves as an excellent, accessible and increasingly realistic alternative for those seeking the thrill of a real game without the logistical hurdles.

However, for purists who cherish the full sensory experience, the nuanced social interactions, and the raw psychological battle that only a face-to-face game can offer, the traditional poker room will always hold a special allure.

Both formats continue to thrive, a testament to poker's enduring appeal, but they cater to slightly different desires within the vast gambling community.

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. Gamble or play responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call 1-800-GAMBLER. If you're in the U.K. and need help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all U.K.-regulated gambling websites. We disclaim any liability for any loss or damage arising directly or indirectly from the use of, or reliance on, the information presented.

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In a world where beauty trends come and go with the seasons, few brands manage to carve out lasting relevance especially in a category as crowded as tanning. Enter goGLOW, the sunless tanning and skincare brand that has quickly become a favorite among beauty editors, influencers, and celebrities alike. With a philosophy centered on skin health and confidence first, the brand's signature line says it best: "It's not a Spray Tan. It's a goGLOW."

goGLOW has been popping up on red carpets and awards season prep lists with increasing frequency, thanks in part to its innovative approach and a loyal community of high profile fans. From Real Housewives mainstay Brandi Glanville and reality star Hazel-E to Jenn Harley and model entrepreneur Kristen Taekman, celebrities are embracing the brand's signature radiant, natural-looking bronze.

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At the heart of the brand is founder and CEO Melanie Richards, whose journey into beauty entrepreneurship was anything but linear and deeply purposeful. Richards spent more than a decade working as a probation officer, advocating for victims of domestic violence before shifting her focus to esthetics and sunless tanning. Driven by the belief that beauty should empower rather than conceal, she launched goGLOW in 2010 as a mobile service built around education, customization and skin health — not quick fixes.

That philosophy set goGLOW apart early on. Richards didn't just want to sell tans; she wanted to redefine how a sunless tan should feel. As she's often said, "Success isn't about timing or luck. It's about deciding you're in it for the long game and acting like it every day." 

That mindset has guided goGLOW from a grassroots idea into a national franchise, with 22 locations currently open across the U.S. and 25 more slated for 2026, making it the fastest-growing beauty franchises in the sunless category.

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But goGLOW's influence extends far beyond its studios. The brand's retail line brings the professional experience home, with skincare infused formulas made using vegan and gluten-free ingredients designed to support the skin while delivering a celebratory glow.

One of the most buzzed about launches is goGLOW Whipped MOUSSE™, a luxurious at-home self-tanning mousse created to deliver a smooth, even, natural-looking bronze without the guesswork. Its whipped, weightless texture feels indulgent yet effortless — ideal for maintaining a glow between studio visits or creating a polished look on your own schedule. It's a beauty ritual that feels runway ready any day of the week.

Complementing the mousse is the newly released SET IT™ Powder Kit, a finishing step designed to set and refine the tan. This ultra-fine powder enhances the overall look while helping minimize transfer and boost comfort immediately after application, delivering a polished, camera-ready finish perfect for awards season, press appearances, or anytime you want to look effortlessly luminous.

Together, these products and goGLOW's broader collection of skincare driven sunless solutions capture the brand's commitment to results that feel as thoughtful as they look. Fans frequently note how refreshing it is to find sunless tanning products that prioritize wearability, skin harmony, and subtlety over streaks, overly bronze tones, or harsh odors.

That intentional design, paired with Richards' leadership and emphasis on education, has made goGLOW a go-to for celebrities seeking quick, healthy-looking bronzes ahead of major moments. Rather than chasing extremes, goGLOW devotees seek a glow that looks like you, just brighter. The result is a subtle yet unmistakable confidence boost.

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In an industry long associated with excess, goGLOW's rise signals a shift toward beauty that feels smart as much as it looks spectacular. With a rapidly expanding franchise footprint and products becoming staples in beauty routines coast to coast, goGLOW is proving that a thoughtful glow and the confidence that comes with it, has universal appeal.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is preparing for his final moments at Royal Lodge.

MORE: Follow Wonderwall on MSN for more top news

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According to royals editor Rebecca English, the former Prince Andrew's eviction will be "another potentially tricky encounter" for The Firm, as he is expected to vacate Royal Lodge sometime around Easter.

"While I understand Marsh Farm at Sandringham, which was recently mooted as a possibility, is destined to be his new home, it is considered 'quite small' and needs a 'lot of work doing on it' to make it habitable and secure," English told DailyMail.com.

King Charles III gave his younger brother official notice to vacate Royal Lodge after Virginia Giuffre's assault allegations against the ex-duke resurfaced.

"The plan is that he will not be at Royal Lodge by Easter. But might there need to be an interim measure [as regards moving to Norfolk]? Possibly," a source said.

According to the insider, the former Duke of York's potential move won't be "the clean and quick break that was originally hoped."

"It's difficult to know if he is being deliberately provocative, utterly pig-headed or just plain stupid," the source said.

"Knowing Andrew, it could be any one of the three. But he seems unable to keep his head down," the insider added. "He really is a man with a habit of making terribly bad decisions."

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OWN's Belle Collective has become one of the driving forces behind Lateshia Pearson, a show that continues to expand its audience by treating Southern womanhood as a source of power, rather than a performance. She enters each episode with the kind of poise that signals she knows precisely where the throne is and how to hold her seat without theatrics.

Ask her whether the cameras ever came closes to catching the version of her that doesn't offer grace, and she doesn't hesitate. "Absolutely. I'm human," she says. "There were moments where I wanted to snap, but growth whispered louder than ego. I could've matched energy, but I chose elevation. That doesn't mean I'm always composed; it just means I'm committed to showing women that strength doesn't require screaming."

Part of her impact comes from the weight of representation. "It's a delicate balance," she explains. "As a Black woman on television, you're constantly fighting the angry or aggressive label. I'm intentional about showing that you can be assertive and still be soft, confident and compassionate. I represent multifaceted women, as we don't fit into one box. I want young Black women watching to see that success can look like grace under fire."

That discipline mirrors the foundation of Lateshia Pearson Enterprises, her leadership and brand development firm built on clarity, strategy and intentional growth. Her work helps women refine their voice and command their careers, and the success of her company reflects a leader who doesn't move unless it aligns with purpose. It's the kind of corporate confidence that makes her presence on screen feel earned, not performed.

That perspective is woven into the spine of Belle Collective itself. The show resonates because it captures the reality of ambitious Black women navigating layered lives. Each cast member carries a full roster of responsibilities: marriages that require tending, businesses they built from the ground up, advocacy work in their communities, and the kind of ambition that doesn't apologize for wanting more. At the center of that fabric is Lateshia, moving with intention, grounding the narrative with a steady presence. She doesn't chase the spotlight; the spotlight follows her because she treats visibility like a leadership tool, not a spotlight for spectacle.

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Her work with executive producer Carlos King has also shaped her evolution. "Carlos pushes me to be more unapologetic," she says. "He reminds me that vulnerability is power and that the audience connects with truth, not perfection. Through this journey, I've learned to own my story fully, not just the polished parts. He's helped me see that what makes me different is what makes me valuable." He doesn't manufacture her reign; he challenges her to expand it.

Her marriage, often discussed by viewers, fits into this same measured approach. "Marriage under a microscope is no joke. Balancing business and love means constant communication and boundaries," she says. "I've learned to protect what's sacred, even when I'm required to share parts of it publicly. I take pride in being authentic and showing all parts of my life." It's a reminder that even as the cameras roll, she remains the architect of her home, not the audience.

Before wrapping, she offers the line she wants attached to the season's narrative. "Believe none of what you hear and half of what you see." Delivered in her signature calm, it sounds less like a warning and more like a woman who knows how to protect her crown.

Off camera, she's stacking wins with the same precision. "Recently, I secured partnerships that align with my purpose, not just my platform," she notes. "I'm building an empire. My quiet wins are loud in results. That's when I look around and say, 'Yeah, I'm really her.'" The statement lands like someone who knows her throne is built on strategy, not hype.

Lateshia Pearson moves through Belle Collective and her business life with a rare combination of intelligence, restraint and authority. She isn't performing a role; she's expanding a legacy. And with each step, she proves that ruling your story is the most powerful throne of all.

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Jennifer Garner is famously discreet about her love life — especially when it comes to the father of her children, Ben Affleck.

But in one new interview, the 13 Going on 30 actress shared some rare vulnerable insight into just how difficult her divorce from Affleck truly was, including how she shielded herself from any tabloid fodder at the time.

"You have to be smart about what you can and can't handle, and I could not handle what was out there," Garner told Marie Claire UK. "But what was out there was not what was hard. The fact of it is what was hard. The actual breaking up of a family is what was hard. Losing a true partnership and friendship is what was hard."

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Garner and Affleck started dating sometime around 2004, not long after the Gone Girl actor's relationship with Jennifer Lopez first ended, as reported by People.

They got engaged in April 2005 and married in June of that year. They welcomed their children, Violet, Fin and Samuel, in 2005, 2009 and 2012, respectively.

The two shocked their fans when they announced they would be getting divorced in 2015, despite having been "marriage goals."

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Their statement read at the time, "After much thought and careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision to divorce. We go forward with love and friendship for one another and a commitment to co-parenting our children whose privacy we ask to be respected during this difficult time. This will be our only comment on this private, family matter. Thank you for understanding."

Despite breaking up in 2015, the A-listers didn't file for divorce until 2017, after Affleck had finished rehab for alcohol addiction. The divorce was finalized in 2018.

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Since their separation, the exes have been committed to respecting each other, and they continue to enjoy a friendly co-parenting relationship.

Garner appeared to be very supportive while Affleck rekindled his erstwhile relationship with Lopez, which ultimately led to marriage in 2022. They later divorced in 2024.

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Meanwhile, the Alias star has been dating boyfriend John Miller since 2018, per People.

Although the two ignited breakup rumors in recent weeks, they were spotted exchanging holiday gifts in Los Angeles, which seemingly put an end to the speculation, as reported by SheKnows.

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Matt Damon has a new movie coming out this summer, and he had to do more than learn his lines to prepare for filming.

Damon stars in The Odyssey, directed by Christopher Nolan, and also features A-listers Tom Holland, Zendaya, Elliot Page and Robert Pattinson. In order to play Odysseus, the director wanted the star to have a specific body type, so Damon had to work hard on his diet and exercise regimen, as he explained to Jason and Travis Kelce on this week's episode of the "New Heights" podcast.

Speaking about filming, Matt told Jason, "I had a beard like yours for like a year."

Jason segued that tidbit into talking about how fit the actor looked during that time as well.

"I was in really good shape," Matt agreed. "I lost a lot of weight. [Christopher Nolan] said he wanted me, like, lean but strong."

He explained, "Just because of this other thing that I did with my doctor, I stopped eating gluten. I lost — I used to walk around at between 185 and 200, and I did that whole movie at 167. And I haven't been that light since high school. So it was a lot of training and a really strict diet."

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The actor also went on to compare his fitness journey with the training plan for professional athletes like Jason and Travis.

"It feels almost like a season, in a — I would imagine it would look like for you guys, where you're preparing," he said. "It's just part of your day, it's part of your job. You get really routinized about it and kind of build your day around all that stuff. That's kind of the physical side of getting ready."

Asked if he's started eating gluten again since filming wrapped, Matt said, "I'm done. I'm gluten-free everything. I found a gluten-free beer. It's been so long since I've had gluten; I can't tell if it's good or not, so that's a good sign."

Also on the podcast episode, the three men discussed how successful the trailer for The Odyssey has been already — unsurprising given the cast and crew — as well as talking about Matt's longtime friendship and collaboration history with fellow Hollywood star Ben Affleck, fatherhood, and much more over the 90-minute-long episode.

The Odyssey is scheduled to hit theaters across the U.S. on July 17.

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Savannah Guthrie has reassured her worried fans following her recent vocal cord surgery.

The broadcaster shared a selfie on Instagram which shows her grinning wide and holding up a whiteboard that says, "All good! Thanks for prayers and love!"

Guthrie captioned the post, "see you soon! 💛," hinting that she might be back on our screens sooner rather than later.

The TV star was showered with love and support in the comments section.

"Feel better my girlxxxx," wrote TODAY Show alum Hoda Kotb.

"Can't wait to hear that voice again soon ❤️" the TODAY Show Radio Instagram account commented.

Friends and colleagues, including Sheinelle Jones, Paolo Presta and Poppy Harlow, all sent their best wishes to Guthrie as well.

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The TV host announced she would be undergoing vocal cord surgery on the TODAY Show on December 19.

"Some of you have noticed that my voice has been very scratchy and started to crack a little bit like Peter Brady, who was going through a change," Guthrie explained to viewers. "I have vocal nodules, and now I also have a polyp. It's not a big, big deal, but I am going to have a surgery real early in the new year and be off for a couple of weeks. So it's my last day for a little while. So I just want to let everyone know, and if you've been wondering, do I have the world's longest head cold? No, I don't."

Thankfully, Guthrie had tons of support at work, too: Her colleague Jones has actually had the same surgery in the past, so she had some words of wisdom to pass on.

"So a lot of you guys know I had the same thing," Jones explained on TODAY. "And I will tell you the silver lining of it is — so you do the surgery, in and out and it's no big deal — the silver lining is you have permission to be still. The house gets quiet, the kids are gonna want to help you out."

Jones then took out a whiteboard with a red bow wrapped around it and handed it to Guthrie.

"This is what I had in my house," she told her. "And now, my friend, I'm passing it to you."

Guthrie thanked her, laughing, and said while miming writing on the board, "I know, I'll be like, 'No, you cannot eat candy in your bedroom.'"

Jones added, "Listen, I took this to Starbucks! […] It's like an extension of my hand."