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Phil Collins, Oasis, and Wu-Tang Clan Headline 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductees

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Phil Collins, Oasis, and Wu-Tang Clan Headline 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductees

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has unveiled its 2026 class, honoring a diverse group of 18 artists spanning genres such as heavy metal, Britpop, and classic hip-hop. This announcement was made during a special airing of “American Idol” in Los Angeles.

This year’s list of performers being inducted includes iconic names like Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Sade, Oasis, Wu-Tang Clan, Luther Vandross, and the combined acts of Joy Division/New Order.

John Sykes, the chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, expressed the significance of the honor by stating, “Induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is music’s highest accolade. We are eager to celebrate these extraordinary artists at this year’s ceremony, which promises to be an unforgettable event.”

Phil Collins makes his second entry into the Hall with this induction, having been previously recognized as part of Genesis in 2010. For bands like Oasis and Iron Maiden, this acknowledgment follows years of anticipation from fans and multiple previous nominations.

Alongside the main performer category, the Hall has also announced several Special Merit awards. Recognized with the Early Influence Award are Queen Latifah, Celia Cruz, Fela Kuti, MC Lyte, and Gram Parsons, celebrating their impactful contributions to music.

The Musical Excellence Award will be presented to producers and songwriters Rick Rubin, Linda Creed, Arif Mardin and Jimmy Miller. Television host Ed Sullivan will be honored with the Ahmet Ertegun Award for his role in bringing rock and roll to mainstream American audiences.

The 41st annual induction ceremony will take place Nov. 14 in Los Angeles. The event will stream on Disney+ and air on ABC later this year.

See the full list of inductees below:
Phil Collins (Performer category)
Billy Idol (Performer category)
Iron Maiden (Performer category)
Joy Division / New Order (Performer category)
Oasis (Performer category)
Sade (Performer category)
Luther Vandross (Performer category)
Wu-Tang Clan (Performer category)
Linda Creed (Musical Excellence Award)
Arif Mardin (Musical Excellence Award)
Jimmy Miller (Musical Excellence Award)
Rick Rubin (Musical Excellence Award)
Celia Cruz (Early Influence Award)
Fela Kuti (Early Influence Award)
Queen Latifah (Early Influence Award)
MC Lyte (Early Influence Award)
Gram Parsons (Early Influence Award)
Ed Sullivan (Ahmet Ertegun Award)

The Walt Disney Company is the parent company of Disney+ and this ABC station.

Copyright © 2026 OnTheRedCarpet.com. All Rights Reserved.

Gov. Wes Moore’s Effort to Redraw Maryland’s Congressional Map for Democratic Edge Hits Roadblock

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Gov. Wes Moore’s Effort to Redraw Maryland’s Congressional Map for Democratic Edge Hits Roadblock


In a significant decision, Maryland Democrats have declined to pursue a new congressional map designed to enhance their prospects in the upcoming midterm elections. This represents a setback for Governor Wes Moore, who had championed the proposal as a countermeasure to President Donald Trump’s redistricting efforts.

The proposal’s demise became official as the state legislative session ended late Monday night, falling victim to internal party discord. Ultimately, the Maryland Senate, controlled by Democrats, chose to leave the bill in committee. This decision stemmed from concerns that the proposal might not withstand judicial scrutiny.

This mid-decade redistricting initiative gained momentum after Trump encouraged Texas, governed by Republicans, to redraw its map last year. The trend is expected to continue, with Republicans aiming to alter congressional boundaries during a special legislative session in Florida, while Democrats are pushing for a redistricting referendum in Virginia.

Despite these efforts, Democrats will not see an immediate advantage in Maryland. The proposed map could have facilitated the removal of the state’s sole Republican representative in the U.S. House, but that opportunity will not materialize for now.

Governor Moore, who is viewed as a potential presidential candidate for 2028, expressed his disagreement with Maryland’s state Senate President, Bill Ferguson, over the necessary strategies to counter Trump’s influence.

Ferguson has said redistricting could actually cost Democrats seats in Maryland because, in the inevitable legal battle that would ensue, a court could order a new map that would be even less favorable to the party. He refused to budge despite pressure from Moore and U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

While speaking at National Action Network in New York on Thursday with the Rev. Al Sharpton, Moore complained that Trump was urging some states to redraw maps to favor Republicans, while telling other states to “sit on your hands.”

“Don’t play with me,” Moore said. “And if the rest of the country is going to have this conversation about mid-decade redistricting, then so should Maryland, and so should every other state. Because until it is done nationally, we have to make sure that this election is not stolen right before our face so this pain is made permanent.”

But while Moore named a panel in November that proposed the new map for Maryland, the governor could not prevail on the heavily Democratic Maryland Senate to approve it.

When it was before the Democratic-controlled General Assembly, the governor told lawmakers in January that the state needed to act to counter what he called “political redlining” by Trump in other states at the cost of Black representation in Congress.

Moore, who is the nation’s only serving Black governor, compared Trump’s push for Republican-friendly redistricting to discriminatory housing practices, saying the president and his allies “are doing everything in their power to silence the voices and trying to eliminate Black leadership — elected leadership — all over this country.”

Democrats outnumber Republicans 2-1 in Maryland and already hold a 7-1 advantage in the state’s U.S. House delegation, with Rep. Andy Harris the lone GOP representative.

The Maryland House passed legislation containing a new map in early February, but the measure ran into opposition from Ferguson.

The senator pointed out a map adopted in 2021 that would have made it easier to flip Harris’ seat was ruled unconstitutional by a judge who called it “a product of extreme partisan gerrymandering.” Maryland passed another map in 2022, and the parties dropped their legal fight.

Meanwhile, here’s a look at what’s happening in other states this month in mid-decade redistricting efforts:

Florida

Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis has scheduled a special session next week for the Republican-dominated Legislature to draw new congressional districts.

Currently, 20 of Florida’s 28 congressional seats are held by Republicans.

Congressional districts in Florida that are redrawn to favor Republicans could carry big consequences for Trump’s plan to reshape districts in GOP-led states, which could give Republicans a shot at winning additional seats in the midterm elections and retaining control of the closely divided U.S. House.

Virginia

Early balloting has already begun for a vote on a constitutional amendment for a new congressional map in Virginia next week.

After a cascade of redistricting efforts, Republicans believe they can win a combined nine more U.S. House seats in Texas, Missouri, North Carolina and Ohio, while Democrats think they can win a total of six more seats in California and Utah. Virginia could give Democrats an extra four seats.

Teen’s Shocking 20-Year Sentence: The Controversial Case of a 13-Year-Old Convicted of Murder

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Staff report

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Ke’mani Narda Hill, a 15-year-old, has been handed a 20-year prison sentence after pleading nolo contendere to several adult charges, including manslaughter with a firearm, armed robbery, shooting into a vehicle, possession of a firearm by a minor, and conspiracy to commit armed robbery.

Initial Arrest

On April 19, 2024, at approximately 11:42 a.m., officers from the Gainesville Police Department (GPD) arrived at the Tiger Bay Apartments at 484 SE 24th Dr., where they discovered Wilber Perez, a male victim, dead inside his car.

According to surveillance footage from the apartment complex, Perez was seen arriving and parking near Building 4. Moments later, his vehicle abruptly reversed, veered to the side, and collided with the leasing office.

A witness who was in the victim’s vehicle said the victim was on the phone with someone when he arrived at the complex; after he parked, several black juveniles walked up to the driver’s side window, then one of the juveniles, later identified as Zion James (14 at the time), snatched a bag of marijuana from the victim’s lap and ran. When the victim began backing out of the parking space, the witness said, another juvenile, later identified as Hill (13 at the time), stuck a gun through the window, and then the witness heard a gunshot. The victim drove away quickly and then crashed into the building, and the witness said she noticed at that time that the victim had been shot.

Read our original article about the investigation.

Read about Zion James’s 10-year prison sentence.

Hill was originally charged with first-degree murder (capital felony), armed robbery, conspiracy to commit armed robbery, shooting into an occupied vehicle, and possession of a firearm by a minor.

Plea and sentence

Today, she entered a plea of nolo contendere to manslaughter with a firearm (a lesser included offense instead of first-degree murder) and the other four original offenses. According to the plea document, the maximum sentence for the charges is life in prison.

Judge Denise Ferrero sentenced Hill to three concurrent sentences of 20 years in prison, with credit for 685 days served, followed by 10 years of probation; Hill received an additional concurrent sentence of 15 years in prison for shooting into an occupied vehicle and was also sentenced to 364 days with credit for 364 days served for possession of a firearm by a minor. While gain time can be applied to the other sentences, the 20-year sentence for armed robbery is a minimum mandatory sentence.

Assistant State Attorneys Glenn Bryan and Dean Zipes led the prosecution team.


Iran’s UN Breakthrough: Backed by Global Powers as US Stands Isolated

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Iran’s UN Breakthrough: Backed by Global Powers as US Stands Isolated

Democratic nations such as the UK, France, Canada, and Australia are under fire for permitting Iran and other authoritarian states to gain seats on key United Nations bodies. In contrast, the United States stood alone in opposition to these developments.

The controversy arises from actions taken by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), a 54-member entity that significantly influences U.N. policy and oversees the staffing of critical committees.

Opponents of this move caution that it could enable regimes accused of violating human rights to sway global policies and dictate which civil society organizations can engage with the United Nations.

Members of the United Nations Security Council voting during a meeting at UN headquarters in New York

In a session focused on Iran and Middle Eastern affairs held at the U.N. headquarters in New York on April 7, 2026, members of the United Nations Security Council voted on a resolution concerning the Strait of Hormuz. (Photo by Timothy A. Clary/AFP via Getty Images)

On Wednesday, ECOSOC appointed the Islamic Republic of Iran to the U.N.’s Committee for Program and Coordination, a group responsible for influencing policy on issues such as human rights, women’s rights, disarmament, and counterterrorism.

The nomination is widely expected to be finalized, as the United Nations General Assembly typically approves such recommendations without a vote.

At the same session, ECOSOC elected China, Cuba, Nicaragua, Saudi Arabia and Sudan to the Committee on Non-Governmental Organizations, which oversees accreditation and access for thousands of NGOs operating within the U.N. system.

The United States was the only member state to formally break from consensus.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz speaking at a United Nations Security Council meeting

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz speaks during a United Nations Security Council meeting, after the U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Iran, at U.N. headquarters in New York City, Feb. 28, 2026. (Heather Khalifa/Reuters)

In remarks delivered April 8, U.S. Representative to ECOSOC Ambassador Dan Negrea said the U.S. “disassociates from consensus” on both decisions, calling several of the countries involved unfit for such roles.

“The regime threatens its neighbors and has, for decades, infringed on the Iranian people’s ability to exercise their basic human rights,” Negrea said, adding that “we believe Iran is unfit to serve” on the committee.

The decision drew sharp criticism from UN Watch, a Geneva-based watchdog group.

Hillel Neuer told Fox News Digital: “By their cynical actions at the UN, major Western states have betrayed their own human rights principles, severely undermining the rules-based international order that they claim to support.”

“We note that the EU states clearly had another option. They did take action in recent years to stop Russia from getting elected to similar bodies, and so we deeply regret that they failed to do the same now to stop the election of serial violators such as Iran, China, China, Cuba, Nicaragua, Saudi Arabia and Sudan.”

“We salute the United States for their moral clarity and leadership in objecting to the election of the Islamic Republic of Iran and other brutal regimes.”

Neuer warned the composition of the NGO committee could allow authoritarian governments to influence which organizations are accredited, potentially sidelining independent human rights groups.

“This means dictatorships will have a majority on the committee in order to deny United Nations accreditation to independent organizations that call out their human rights violations, and to accredit more fake front groups created by the regimes,” he said.

Israel’s mission to the United Nations also pointed to political tensions surrounding the vote, saying Iran attempted to challenge Israel’s candidacy during the same ECOSOC session.

Iran's Ambassador Amir-Saeid Iravani attending a United Nations Security Council meeting in New York City

Iran’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Amir-Saeid Iravani attends a United Nations Security Council meeting, after the U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Iran, at U.N. headquarters in New York City, U.S. Feb. 28, 2026. (Heather Khalifa/Reuters)

Israel was elected to several U.N. bodies, according to the Permanent Mission of Israel to the United Nations, including the Commission on the Status of Women and the NGO Committee, despite opposition.

“Iran also tried to turn the elections at the UN into an arena for incitement against Israel and failed,” Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon said. “Those who oppress women and trample on human rights in their own country will not teach us what women’s rights are.”

Ahead of the vote, around 70 civil society groups warned that countries with poor human rights records could secure seats on key oversight bodies, but the elections proceeded without a formal vote, a process known as approval “by acclamation.”

Critics argue that this procedure allows controversial candidates to secure influential roles with limited transparency or accountability.

The developments are likely to intensify scrutiny over how U.N. bodies are staffed and whether political considerations are outweighing human rights concerns.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz speaking at a United Nations Security Council meeting

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz speaks during a United Nations Security Council meeting, after the U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Iran, at U.N. headquarters in New York City, U.S. Feb. 28, 2026. (Heather Khalifa/Reuters)

Fox News Digital reached out to the UK, France, Canada, Australia and U.S. mission for comment but did not receive responses in time for publication.

The Iranian mission to the United Nations declined to comment.

Efrat Lachter is a foreign correspondent for Fox News Digital covering international affairs and the United Nations. Follow her on X @efratlachter. Stories can be sent to efrat.lachter@fox.com.

Luna Alerts: Swalwell’s Scandal Could Intensify, Potential Jail Time Looms

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Luna Alerts: Swalwell’s Scandal Could Intensify, Potential Jail Time Looms


Anna Paulina Luna, a Republican representative from Florida’s 13th district, has made serious accusations against Congressman Eric Swalwell, suggesting that his ongoing scandal involving sexual misconduct might lead to criminal charges. The California Democrat is facing intense scrutiny.

While these allegations are indeed dramatic, the rapid unraveling of Swalwell’s career, culminating in his quick resignation, indicates an extraordinary situation that has captured public attention and concern.

Luna has alluded to challenges Swalwell is grappling with, specifically referencing a video that has surfaced on social media. This video allegedly shows the lawmaker in a compromising situation with someone Luna describes as a sex worker.

In a report by RedState’s Sister Toldjah, Luna’s comments on X raise questions about the video’s origin. She provocatively inquired, “Eric, why don’t you tell us a little about who was filming the video of the female sex worker?”

READ MORE: ‘Just Asking Questions’ — Analyzing the Connection Between Swalwell and His Ally, Senator Ruben Gallego, as Investigation Heats Up

READ MORE: ‘Just Asking Questions’ — All Eyes Turn to Swalwell’s Bestie, Sen. Ruben Gallego, As Scrutiny Intensifies

The ‘Who Knew What and When’ Phase of the Swalwell Scandal Begins, and I Have Thoughts

In a bombshell appearance on Fox News with host Jesse Watters, Luna indicated that she had received “forensic reporting” confirming the video is real. Worse, she indicates she knows a little more about the person behind the video than she initially let on.

“I do think that he has serious criminal problems on his hands, and I do think that he might end up in jail,” Luna said.





“Not only did I receive forensic reporting showing that you know, that infamous video of him in the hotel room was indeed him — it was not AI-generated — but I’m also being told that … more stuff is going to be dropping in the next 24 hours, and that also potentially the individual that recorded that video in the hotel room was a female and she was underage,” the congresswoman claimed.

Watters’ reaction says it all. It’s a pretty shocking claim. Though he correctly points out that the video has not been confirmed by Fox, and any context for it is pure speculation at this point.

“If what you’re saying is true,” Watters said. “That is very, very, very bad news.”

Swalwell announced his resignation from Congress earlier today, after multiple women — including a former staffer — accused him of sexual misconduct and assault, with one alleging he raped her twice while she was too intoxicated to consent.

In addition to the bombshell claims, Luna contends that Swalwell’s behavior had been known to the media for years, yet they did little to investigate and report it to the public.

“I will say many people on the Hill knew about this, many reporters have come forward … saying that they had heard stories about this,” she contends, later adding, “they knew about it, they did not report on it.”





You mean the media that covered up the Biden autopen/mental incapacity scandal would keep the criminal behavior of a Democrat under wraps? Wild.

“Now we’re looking at the criminal activity, and I stand by what I said, because I saw again, the forensics report of that video, and if that is true, I would suggest that the Manhattan DA look into that,” Luna concluded the segment.

The Manhattan DA’s office has already initiated an investigation into the sexual assault allegations.

Just when you thought Swalwell’s scandal couldn’t get any uglier, Luna claims, there’s “more disgusting stuff” on the horizon? It’s hard to believe it could get much worse.


Editor’s Note: The 2026 Midterms will determine the fate of President Trump’s America First agenda. Republicans must maintain control of both chambers of Congress.

Help RedState continue to report on the Democrats’ radicalism and inform voters as our nation faces a crossroads. Join RedState VIP and use promo code FIGHT to receive 60% off your membership.



Commemorative ANZAC Day Stamps Highlight Peace Initiatives

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Commemorative ANZAC Day Stamps Highlight Peace Initiatives
As conflict simmers in the Middle East, Australia Post has released two new commemorative ANZAC Day stamps centred not on warfare, but peace and post-war recovery.

Drawing inspiration from the uncommon peace bond posters of World War I, a new set of stamps is being introduced under the title Preparing for Peace: World War I Posters.

The $1.70 stamp, intended for domestic use, portrays a World War I veteran reuniting with his wife and child. It carries the message, “For Home and Country: Buy Peace Bonds.”

Australia Post has released two new stamps to commemorate ANZAC Day. The $1.70 domestic stamp depicted a returned Australian soldier in uniform embracing his wife and son and reads ‘For Home and Country: Buy Peace Bonds’. (Australia Post)
It is based closely on a 1918 American ‘Victory Liberty Loan’ poster, with the only difference being the Australian digger’s slouch hat.

Meanwhile, the $3 stamp for international mail features an image of a soldier returning to a serene Australian countryside, accompanied by the words “His Future – Make It Sure! Buy Peace Bonds.”

This stamp is inspired by a 1919 poster crafted by the acclaimed Australian poster artist James Northfield.

The $3 international stamp depicts a returned World War I soldier looking out across a peaceful rural landscape. (Australia Post)

The purpose of these historic posters was to motivate Australians to invest in peace bonds, aiding the nation’s recovery in the aftermath of the war.

Both stamps are available from today in post offices and online.

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Sung Jinwoo Faces Off with Chihiro: A New Rivalry in Aura Farming

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The anticipation for an anime adaptation of Kagurabachi is mounting, and this development could spell trouble for the reign of Solo Leveling‘s beloved protagonist, Sung Jinwoo.

Kagurabachi, crafted by Takeru Hokazono, has emerged as a standout among the latest generation of shonen manga. The series follows Chihiro, a determined young man who hones his swordsmanship to exact vengeance and combat those who misuse their power. With a calm and assured demeanor, Chihiro dispatches his foes in a manner reminiscent of Sung Jinwoo’s effortless cool that endeared him to anime fans worldwide.

Until now, Sung Jinwoo has held the crown as the unrivaled master of anime presence and charisma. However, Chihiro’s emergence as a compelling new protagonist suggests that he might be the one to challenge the Shadow Monarch’s dominance in this realm of animated lore.

Up until now, Jinwoo has remained the undisputed king of anime aura farmers, but Chihiro is the one new gen protagonist who presents a real challenge to the Shadow Monarch’s throne.

Kagurabachi’s Chihiro is the Only New-Gen Shonen Hero Who Can Match Sung Jinwoo’s Aura

As of Solo Leveling’s record-breaking second season, Sung Jinwoo has emerged as the greatest aura farmer in modern anime. And there’s a clear reason why.

While there are other heroes who have moments, such as when Goku turns Ultra Instinct or Gojo becomes manic with power, no single protagonist in modern anime maintains the same consistently intimidating aura of dark coldness as Jinwoo. The one exception in new gen shonen might just be Kagurabachi’s Chihiro.

Kagurabachi does have other memorable characters aside from Chihiro, and its story retains the reader’s attention with a unique sense of mystery surrounding the events that led to the creation of the Enchanted Blades, and the dark truth of the nation’s history underlying it all.

But when it all comes down to it, the thing that keeps readers coming back for more (just like with Solo Leveling) is the action. Kagurabachi‘s katana-based power system is everything Demon Slayer’s wished it was, with magically enhanced swords that each bolster a different set of abilities.

At the center of it all is Chihiro, who is consumed by a kind of edgy darkness that the Shonen Dark Trio’s MCs only seemed to touch upon. While he has a strong sense of justice, he still exudes a disconnected, heartless exterior that makes him feel more like an antihero than a straightforward shonen protagonist. It’s a character trait that Sung Jinwoo himself mastered, which is what makes Chihiro and Jinwoo feel so much like distant relatives.

Chihiro is a Stone-Cold Killer Just Like Jinwoo

Chihiro defeats his enemies in Kagurabachi
Chihiro defeats his enemies in Kagurabachi
Image via Shueisha

Chihiro is a unique kind of hero in the shonen pantheon, but he has a lot in common with Sung Jinwoo. That fact alone may help explain why his aura has a similar dramatic bite. For example, both characters are extremely family-oriented, to the point that their entire stories focus on their loved ones.

Sung Jinwoo is willing to face death so frequently as the “Weakest E-Rank Hunter of all Mankind” because of his desire to support his sister and pay for his mother’s hospital bills. Jinwoo isn’t the type to show a lot of emotion, but the moments where he really breaks down in Solo Leveling almost always come in those scenes he shares with family members like his mother or father.

Similarly, Chihiro’s entire journey in Kagurabachi is sparked out of a desire to avenge his father’s death. However, it also goes deeper than that. Chihiro not only wants revenge, he also wants to uphold the ideals that his father had when first creating the Enchanted Blades. Chihiro sees himself as carrying on his father’s mission, providing him with the resolve he needs to cut down any who stand in his path.

That’s also one of the main similarities between Chihiro and Jinwoo: a ready willingness to kill in the name of their personal goals. It’s very rare in shonen for a hero to take this kind of no-nonsense approach to cutting down the villains. While both Jinwoo and Chihiro do morally struggle with the idea of killing other people, they very rarely hesitate when it’s time to take action.

Chihiro Is Such a Subversive Shonen Hero He Would Even Make Sung Jinwoo Proud

Chihiro is truly a product of the next generation of anime heroes, just as Sung Jinwoo is. Both face down death with a cold glare that exudes both confidence and unflinching resolve. These are heroes who subvert traditional shonen archetypes at their root.

While heroes like Naruto and Deku are meant to be relatable in their ability to overcome all odds despite their character flaws, Jinwoo and Chihiro are characters who never have any doubt that they’ll achieve their goals, at whatever cost. That’s part of what gives them both the mystique that makes their auras so impressive.

Kagurabachi hasn’t gotten an official anime announcement just yet, it appears that’s about to change. Shonen Jump is hosting a Jump Press Showcase on April 27 where it has already hinted at a big Kagurabachi announcement taking place. And to top it all off, multiple leakers and insiders have revealed the anime is already in development and will be announced at this event.

Chihiro is truly the one shonen manga hero who can actually give Sung Jinwoo a run for his money when it comes to aura, so his anime debut will undeniably usher in the start of a new era for dark, badass shonen anime protagonists.

The Kagurabachi manga is currently available to read via Viz Media, Manga Plus and the Shonen Jump App. Seasons 1 and 2 of Solo Leveling are streaming now on Crunchyroll.

Kagurabachi Manga Cover

Author

Takeru Hokazono

Artist

Takeru Hokazono

Release Date

September 19, 2023

Genre

Action

Volumes

2


Duke and Duchess of Sussex Commence Australian Tour with Heartfelt Hospital Visit

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Duke and Duchess of Sussex Commence Australian Tour with Heartfelt Hospital Visit

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have embarked on a meaningful four-day visit to Australia, blending royal duties with personal commitments. Their itinerary began with a heartwarming stop at a children’s hospital, where they spent time with young cancer patients before Meghan volunteered her service at a local homeless shelter.

The couple touched down in Melbourne early Tuesday morning, arriving via a business class Qantas flight from Los Angeles. Notably, their children, Lilibet and Archie, remained at home for this trip.

The Sussexes have emphasized that this visit is ‘privately-funded.’ While in Australia, they are scheduled to attend the Invictus Australia event in Sydney. Additionally, Meghan is set to host the ‘Her Best Life’ retreat at Coogee Beach, with ticket prices for the weekend event starting at over £1,400.

Excitement was palpable among the large crowd that assembled at the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne to welcome Harry and Meghan.

Approximately 70 staff members, parents, and young patients eagerly awaited their arrival in the hospital foyer. The couple engaged with the community by visiting the Adolescent Oncology and Rehabilitation ward and participating in a therapeutic garden session.

Later Meghan went on a solo visit to a Melbourne homeless and domestic violence shelter where she served food to residents.

And then the Sussexes went to the Australian National Veterans Arts Museum. When asked if they had a message for the public Down Under, Harry said it was ‘great’ to be there, adding: ‘Thanks for having us back’.

The couple landed in Australia early this morning and their itinerary will include charity and business events in Melbourne, Canberra and Sydney. But there will apparently be no walkabouts to meet the public.

There is some disquiet because Australian taxpayers are due to foot the bill for police security at some events. Tens of thousands of people have signed a petition demanding they cover all the costs themselves.

It is not known how much Prince Harry and Meghan are being paid for their commercial events  But as they landed in the city, Melburnian Andrew Bridge said the couple’s trip Down Under was clearly about ‘self-promotion’. 

Victorian Opposition Leader Jess Wilson said today: ‘Victoria Police are there to provide security and safety for Victorians.

‘So any suggestion that officers are going to be pulled off duty to provide security and protection for Harry and Meghan’s visit is absolutely unacceptable, and the government needs to rule out that this is occurring.’

Libertarian MP David Limbrick added: ‘If people want to spend thousands of dollars on former royals, that’s fine. But Victorian taxpayers should not be on the hook to provide the security of millionaires.’

Meghan and Harry pose for a selfie with patients at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne on day one of their Australian visit

Meghan and Harry pose for a selfie with patients at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne on day one of their Australian visit

Harry and Meghan greet crowds during their visit to the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne

Harry and Meghan greet crowds during their visit to the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne

The Duchess knelt as she was handed flowers by a young patient who had also made her a card

The Duchess knelt as she was handed flowers by a young patient who had also made her a card

Meghan excitedly waved to people who were above them in the hospital atrium

Meghan excitedly waved to people who were above them in the hospital atrium

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's quasi-royal tour of Australia is underway amid bafflement from locals who questioning: 'Why are they actually here?'

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s quasi-royal tour of Australia is underway amid bafflement from locals who questioning: ‘Why are they actually here?’

Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex greet children during their visit to the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne

Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex greet children during their visit to the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne

The couple were greeted by swathes of crowds upon their arrival

The couple were greeted by swathes of crowds upon their arrival 

After the hospital visit, the Duchess of Sussex serves lunch to a resident during a visit to McAuley Community Services for Women

After the hospital visit, the Duchess of Sussex serves lunch to a resident during a visit to McAuley Community Services for Women

After arriving in Australia this morning, the couple spoke to children and posed for photographs outside the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne amid surprise from locals. 

One parent, Pina Roberts, told the Daily Mail: ‘I just came here and was like, what is going on?’ Anything that acknowledges us (patients and parents at the hospital) is good thing.

‘But I didn’t even know they were coming, so I would wonder why they are actually here.’

Four-year-old patient Lily held up a hand-drawn sign that said: ‘Welcome Harry and Meghan’. She presented a flower to the duchess as they arrived.

Meghan hugged Lily after being presented with the gifts and told her: ‘Oh my gosh, this is so sweet. I love it.’

After being shown Lily’s sign, Harry said: ‘Nice to meet you, Lily. That’s beautiful. How long did it take?’

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex took part in a garden therapy session with patients at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, smelling plants and flowers.

Asked if he would like to take some gumtree home, Harry, wearing a navy jacket, white shirt and metal bracelets, joked: ‘I would, but I think I’d probably get arrested at some point.’

Meghan, wearing a Karen Gee navy sleeveless dress, asked the patients: ‘Do you find that different stories and memories come out that you weren’t expecting?’

The couple visited wards at the hospital and met patients with eating disorders.

Following the Royal Children’s Hospital visit, the Duchess of Sussex visited a women’s refuge in Melbourne.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, meet patient Hamish and family members on the Adolescent Oncology and Rehabilitation ward

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, meet patient Hamish and family members on the Adolescent Oncology and Rehabilitation ward

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex landed in Melbourne early on Tuesday aboard a business class flight from Los Angeles ahead of a four-day commercial trip

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex landed in Melbourne early on Tuesday aboard a business class flight from Los Angeles ahead of a four-day commercial trip

The couple met young patients at the event

The couple met young patients at the event 

Large crowds met them in the atrium

Large crowds met them in the atrium

Both the Duke and Duchess looked delighted to be there

Both the Duke and Duchess looked delighted to be there

Harry had some fun with a young boy who appeared equally excited to see the royal

Harry had some fun with a young boy who appeared equally excited to see the royal

Harry played to the crowd during the Melbourne visit

Harry played to the crowd during the Melbourne visit

Meghan donned an apron and served frittata to people at the centre, run by McAuley Community Services for Women, which supports women and children experiencing family violence, homelessness and related challenges.

After serving several people, the duchess asked ‘is anyone else hungry?’, while looking and smiling at the press and other people gathered in the centre.

Meghan then sat down at a table and joined people eating food, telling them: ‘We landed here this morning so my jet lag hasn’t quite hit yet.’

The centre provides round-the-clock crisis accommodation, refuge services and longer-term housing, alongside programmes focused on recovery, wellbeing and independence.

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex takes part a therapy session in the Kelpie garden with adolescent patients on a visit to the Royal Children's Hospital

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex takes part a therapy session in the Kelpie garden with adolescent patients on a visit to the Royal Children’s Hospital

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrive at the Australian National Veterans Arts Museum

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrive at the Australian National Veterans Arts Museum

After an outfit change, the couple spoke to reporters at the veterans event

After an outfit change, the couple spoke to reporters at the veterans event

While greeting crowds at the Royal Children’s Hospital, the Duke of Sussex hugged Christina Parkes, who works as an academic at the University of Melbourne.

Ms Parkes, whose 13-year-old daughter Adelaide is a patient at the hospital, said it ‘means an enormous amount’ to have the couple visit Australia.

Speaking before Harry and Meghan arrived, Ms Parkes told the Press Association: ‘I’m absolutely thrilled to see the couple. Harry’s grandmother actually opened the hospital originally, and her portrait and his grandfather’s portrait are in the hallway.’

Asked what she would say to the couple, she said: ‘Welcome to Australia, we hope they enjoy their time here.

‘Thank you for taking the time to visit the hospital and see the work that the doctors and nurses are doing.

‘I cannot overstate how important the work is that they do here at the children’s hospital because my daughter wouldn’t be here without them.’

Officials Report Fatal Shooting of 17-Year-Old Among Two Victims in Aiken County

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Officials Report Fatal Shooting of 17-Year-Old Among Two Victims in Aiken County


AIKEN COUNTY, S.C. – Tragedy struck on Monday evening in Aiken County as the sheriff’s office confirmed a shooting that left one young man dead and another injured. The incident unfolded in the 100 block of Goodman Road in Jackson, South Carolina.

Authorities were alerted and promptly arrived at the scene shortly after 6:30 p.m. on April 13. Sadly, they found 17-year-old Kahlil Simmons, who had succumbed to gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at 7:13 p.m. His body is set to be transported to Newberry later this week for a detailed autopsy.

The second victim, also a male, survived the incident and was rushed to the hospital to receive medical care for his injuries. The extent of his injuries and his current condition have not been disclosed.

The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office has launched a comprehensive search operation, deploying a drone team and K-9 units to scour the area for a suspect. Meanwhile, investigators and forensic experts are actively working on the case, piecing together the events that led to this unfortunate incident.

There is currently a drone team and K-9s searching in the area for a suspect, as investigators and the forensic team continue with the case.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Aiken County Sheriff’s
Office at (803) 642-1761.

This is a developing story. Count on NewsChannel 6 for more information.

Vermilion County Officials Raise Alarm Over Fiber Optic Cable Installation Concerns

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Vermilion County Officials Raise Alarm Over Fiber Optic Cable Installation Concerns


In Tilton, Illinois, local officials in Vermilion County convened a meeting to tackle a shared issue plaguing several towns: the disruption caused by fiber optic contractors inadvertently damaging utility lines.

The gathering was orchestrated by Westville Mayor Troy Strebin, providing a platform for public works employees to express their concerns directly to area representative Brandun Schweizer.
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