Subscribe
Home Blog Page 194

Gainesville Resident Detained After Box Cutter Threat in $75 Dispute

NewsFinale Journal
-
0

In Gainesville, Florida, a confrontation over a financial dispute took a dangerous turn as Edward Jesse Shaw, 73, found himself under arrest after allegedly wielding a box cutter during an altercation. The incident unfolded yesterday afternoon, involving two men and a disagreement over $75.

According to the Gainesville Police Department, Shaw made his way to a business located in the 4300 block of NW 13th Street around 4 p.m. on April 14. The purpose of Shaw’s visit was to demand payment from the business owner. However, the owner insisted Shaw leave the premises, noting that he was not permitted to be there. In response, Shaw allegedly brandished a box cutter while standing in the business’s doorway, issuing a threat: “Give me the money, or I’m gonna cut you.”

The tense situation escalated as a second man, fearing for his safety, resorted to picking up a chair for protection while he dialed 911 for assistance. His quick thinking highlighted the gravity of the threat Shaw posed with the weapon.

Subsequently, after the owner again instructed Shaw to vacate the premises, Shaw retreated outside. Sensing the opportunity, the two men swiftly secured the door to prevent his re-entry, ensuring their safety until authorities arrived.

When the owner told Shaw to leave a second time, Shaw reportedly walked outside and then turned, so the two men quickly closed the door to keep him out.

The owner reportedly told the officer that he was not afraid of Shaw and did not want to press charges.

Shaw reportedly left the scene but later turned himself in at GPD Headquarters.

Post Miranda, Shaw reportedly admitted going to the business to get his money. He said the owner pushed him out of the business, so he pulled a boxcutter in self-defense, but the officer reported that Shaw had previously been told to take the matter to civil court and had no reason to be at the business.

Shaw has been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. He has one traffic conviction from 2000 but no other criminal history. Judge Susan Miller-Jones set bail at $25,000 but ordered that he could be released on his own recognizance if he is accepted to Mental Health Court.

Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. 


NYC Mayor Mamdani and Democrats Address Wealthy Homeowners with Tax Day Announcement

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
NYC Mayor Mamdani and Democrats Address Wealthy Homeowners with Tax Day Announcement


New York’s political leanings are often described as far-left by critics, and the state’s recent actions on Tax Day have reinforced this perception. Governor Kathy Hochul introduced a new tax targeting non-residents who own residential properties valued at $5 million or more in New York City. This initiative, known as the pied-à-terre tax, has sparked heated discussions.

This tax aims to address a significant budget shortfall—an eye-watering $5.4 billion—which critics attribute to years of mismanagement and extravagant spending. The state, in its efforts to bridge this gap, has turned to those owning luxury properties, causing a stir among property owners and political commentators alike.

Governor Hochul shared the announcement on her social media platform, X, on Tuesday, but it was Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s slickly produced video, celebrating the move to tax the wealthy, that captured widespread attention on Wednesday. Mamdani’s outspoken viewpoints, which align with some basic principles of communism, have not been a secret, adding another layer of controversy to the tax proposal.

…Gov. Kathy Hochul has decided to push for a so-called pied-à-terre tax aimed at the ultrawealthy who primarily live outside the city.

Ms. Hochul will formally propose a yearly tax surcharge on second homes in New York City that are worth $5 million or more, she said on Tuesday.

The exact cost of the surcharge has not yet been ironed out, but the governor hopes to raise $500 million annually that would be used to address New York City’s deficit, estimated at $5.4 billion through the next fiscal year.

Notice that, readers? The dire need, which the Democrats readily admit, comes because they need to fill a budgetary pothole they made themselves through mismanagement and overspending; $5.4 billion is a massive pothole of waste, fraud, and abuse.





Hochul shared a clip Tuesday from the announcement presser on her X account. But it was a slick, overproduced video boasting about soaking the rich by NYC’s Mayor Zohran Mamdani that went viral on Wednesday:

Readers likely know that Mamdani has not made it a secret where he stands on some of the most basic tenets of communism. Before we get back to him, not everything was doom and gloom on April 15. My colleague Bob Hoge wrote that the media surprisingly gave some kudos to Republicans, for the Tax Day wins for many Americans on their 2025 filings, via the OBBB (One Big Beautiful Bill) getting passed then signed into law by President Trump

READ MORE: Tax Day in America: Even Mainstream Media Forced to Acknowledge Big, Beautiful Cuts for Regular Americans

Back to Mayor Mamdani. This isn’t the first example of him going full-bore ahead on the socialist slop.

RedState just wrote on Tuesday about his proposed, government-run free grocery stores – a concept that would make Stalin and company proud.

And while the issue predated Mamdani’s moving into Gracie Mansion, the woes of all New Yorkers who seek a safe refuge from criminals and madmen in the City That Never Sleeps have been mounting thanks to liberal governance in recent years.





READ MORE: Ghosts of Former Soviet Union Leaders Grin As Mamdani’s $30M NYC Communist Grocery Store Unveiled

Man Wielding a Machete Injures 3 in Bizarre Attack at NYC Subway Station, Then Police Fatally Shoot Him

Here’s the problem Hochul, Mamdani, and their pals in the Democrat-majority legislature are going to realize, if they usher this punishment into law: These are the last people you should want to dissuade from growing your city or state’s economy, through the imposing of punitive taxation.

Taxes like this do not create the conditions the State hopes it will. We’re talking about people who are living in a free country, not serfs. People who are legally able to make contracts with others, who are able to do business with others of their own free will. These second-home owners will sell their homes with relish before paying any pied-à-terre tax; they can afford to stay in the finest, fanciest hotels in midtown Manhattan. And their earnings will instead go to Chandler/Gilbert, Arizona, which already appeals to my state’s high-tech corridor folks, according to a late 2024 survery, or they could take their money overseas to invest in the luxury skyscrappers of the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) Dubai. What would they have to lose?





You know what else this new tax won’t do? Provide safe streets for NYC residents, who less than a week ago saw news reports on a crazy person slashing subway riders at Grand Central Station with a machete, before law enforcement officials were able to eliminate the threat with their guns (linked above). Guess who hates law enforcement and guns?

No one should have to put up with this commie crap.

Utah Republican Senator Mike Lee has a combined constitutional/math problem for everyone on the property tax proposal:


Editor’s Note: President Trump is leading America into the “Golden Age” as Democrats try desperately to stop it.  

Please help us continue to report on President Trump’s successes. Join RedState VIP and use promo code FIGHT to get 60% off your membership.



Tragic NYC Shooting: Teen Killed, Two Injured – Suspects Apprehended

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Tragic NYC Shooting: Teen Killed, Two Injured – Suspects Apprehended

On Wednesday, a tragic shooting at Eisenhower Park on Long Island, New York, claimed the life of a 15-year-old and left two others injured. Authorities have detained two individuals in connection with the incident, which police have identified as gang-related.

The Nassau County Police Department reported that the shooting took place around 8:20 p.m., near the intersection of Hempstead Turnpike and Merrick Avenue. According to Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder, the violence erupted after gang members spotted a social media invitation to a barbecue being held in the park, as noted by CBS New York.

As tensions rose, a dispute broke out between two individuals, culminating in gunfire, Ryder explained to reporters. The unfolding of these events highlights the ongoing challenges of gang violence and its devastating impact on communities.

Nassau County helicopter

The shooting happened at around 8:20 p.m. near Hempstead Turnpike and Merrick Avenue. (Nassau County Police)

Two people then became involved in an argument and shots were fired, Ryder said.

Three people, including the 15-year-old boy, were struck by gunfire. The three victims were transported to a local hospital, where the teenager was pronounced dead.

Nassau County police vehicle

Police said two people became involved in an argument and shots were fired. (Howard Schnapp/Newsday RM)

The two other victims were listed in stable condition, and Ryder said they underwent surgery late Wednesday. Their ages were not immediately known.

Two people who were both carrying weapons were taken into custody. Police did not release the suspects’ identities or specify what charges they may face.

A Nassau County police car

Two people who were both carrying weapons were taken into custody. (FOX 5)

The shooting remains under investigation.

After the shooting, responding officers flooded the area. Patrol cars were seen lining the roadways and a police helicopter was observed circling the park as officers investigated the incident.

<!–>

–>

Tragic Incident: Man Charged in Fatal Assault with Cast-Iron Stove Grate

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Tragic Incident: Man Charged in Fatal Assault with Cast-Iron Stove Grate

Inset: Ricky Colon (Oswego County District Attorney”s Office). Background: The residence where Colon brutally murdered Rachel Allen in Oswego, N.Y. (Google Maps).

A man from upstate New York faces several decades in prison after being convicted of the brutal murder of his friend using a cast-iron stove grate. Ricky Colon, 37, was sentenced by Oswego County Supreme Court Justice Armen Nazarian to 25 years to life for the killing of 38-year-old Rachel Allen.

This past February, Colon was found guilty by an Oswego County jury of several charges, including second-degree murder, assault, criminal possession of a weapon, and tampering with physical evidence. The tragic incident unfolded on July 13, 2024, at Colon’s home on West Schuyler Street in Oswego, a quaint college town about 40 miles north of Syracuse.

In addition to the life sentence for murder, Justice Nazarian imposed a 25-year sentence for the assault charge, along with lesser sentences for the other charges. However, these sentences will be served concurrently, meaning Colon will serve them simultaneously. This was reported by Oswego County News Now, the joint online platform for The Palladium-News and The Valley Times.

The judge also ordered an additional 25-year sentence for the assault count and single-digit sentences for the lesser crimes, but assessed all of the sentences to run concurrently, or at the same time, according to a courtroom report by Oswego County News Now, the collective online outlet for The Palladium-News and The Valley Times.

The underlying incident occurred on July 13, 2024, at Colon’s own residence on West Schuyler Street in the City of Oswego, a small college town located roughly 40 miles north of Syracuse.

The judge described the murder as one of the most “brutal and disturbing” crimes he had ever seen, recounting an insurance report that said the crime scene required over $20,000 in cleaning services.

“The sheer violence required to inflict those injuries demonstrates an astonishing level of cruelty,” the judge said, “and defies comprehension.”

During the trial, prosecutors said the bludgeoning was so brutal that the metal grate broke into several pieces. The medical examiner determined Allen died from blunt force trauma caused by 58 external injuries and 13 internal injuries. First responders who knew the victim said the damage was so severe they could not recognize her.

Immediately after the killing, Colon recorded a series of cellphone videos inside the house, according to Syracuse.com. In those videos, the defendant is seen covered in blood, crying, and speaking incoherently. In one such video, Colon said he found his friend dead and proclaimed his innocence — expressing a desire to call the police before later saying he believed his life was over.

A prosecutor described the videos as “extremely bizarre” in comments to Syracuse.com.

During sentencing, the defense formally argued the salience of a different kind of life-altering event, one that occurred long before Allen’s murder — citing Colon’s military service during the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq and the post-traumatic stress disorder he suffered as a result.

During the trial, however, the court did not allow the defendant’s counsel to mention his PTSD diagnosis, despite repeat efforts.

“Judge, he entered the service one person and came back a different person,” attorney Michael Spano said. “We see that in the letter his brother wrote. He describes him as a happy person, always smiling, but when he came back he was a profoundly different person.”

The state, however, dismissed such excuses offered by the foreign war veteran, saying he was given the right to an attorney, a fair trial, and considerable leeway over a series of in-court outbursts.

“Now I’m asking this court to give him what he deserves,” prosecutor Louis Mannara said. “He showed no mercy…At this point in time the people request you show him the same. He’s not deserving of any.”

After Allen was beaten to death, Colon moved the victim’s body and burned her clothes before calling 911. While speaking with dispatchers, the since-condemned man said his friend had died of a drug overdose. The crime scene belied that claim.

“In a final act of profound callousness, he showered over the deceased body, washed the blood off of himself and onto her,” Nazarian said. “He’s demonstrated a complete and absolute lack of remorse.”

The court also took issue with the post-slaying videos, particularly one in which the defendant said he found Allen in his apartment after waking up from a nap. At this point of the lecture, Colon piped up to interject an obscenity-laden diatribe and to claim that he did not receive a fair trial because he was not allowed to testify on his own behalf. Then, deputies removed the defendant and took him to a holding cell for the duration of the hearing.

Nazarian continued on, despite an objection from the defense.

The judge continued to upbraid Colon, this time for an argument he made to the probation department in his own presentencing report that he needed to supply his victim with alcohol to “save her life” from withdrawal symptoms — though he killed her later the same day.

Colon, the court said, used alcohol and PTSD to try to shield himself from responsibility for his actions and never made any effort to try to alleviate his substance and mental health problems.

“The defendant who absolutely refuses to acknowledge his role in his own horrific actions is a defendant who can’t be rehabilitated,” Nazarian intoned. “His complete lack of remorse combined with his proven capacity for extreme, explosive violence makes him a profound and continuing danger to society and the community. Therefore the maximum sentence allowable by law are not only appropriate in this case, they are absolutely necessary.”

Discovery of Uncounted Ballots Prompts Third Vote Recount in South Australian Seat Secured by One Nation

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Discovery of Uncounted Ballots Prompts Third Vote Recount in South Australian Seat Secured by One Nation
A South Australian One Nation candidate has questioned how new electoral laws impacted the electoral commission after uncounted votes thrust her seat of Narungga into a third vote count.

Chantelle Thomas recently secured the Yorke Peninsula seat with an incredibly narrow victory, edging out her opponent by just 58 votes. This slim margin initially led to a recount to double-check the accuracy of the results.

However, the electoral process took another unexpected turn when South Australia’s Electoral Commission (ECSA) announced the necessity of a second recount. This decision came after the discovery of 81 unopened ballot papers in the neighboring district of Stuart, potentially impacting the final outcome.

One Nation SA Narungga candidate Chantelle Thomas.
One Nation SA Narungga candidate Chantelle Thomas slammed news of the recount as “very disappointing for my community in Narungga”. (Nine)

The unopened ballots were retrieved from the Port Pirie early voting center earlier this week, as confirmed by Deputy Premier Kyam Maher. This prompted the commission to take immediate action to ensure the integrity of the election process.

Leah McLay, acting commissioner for the ECSA, reached out to all involved candidates to inform them of the upcoming third count. This step aims to maintain transparency and fairness in the electoral proceedings, providing a clear resolution to a closely contested race.

The commission said its acting commissioner Leah McLay contacted all candidates to notify them of the third count.

“Following the discovery of votes that have not been counted, I have secured the unopened ballot papers and have ordered a further count for the district of Narungga,” McLay said.

“The Commission will support any independent external review into the 2026 State Election and South Australian First Nations Voice to Parliament Election.”

The unopened batch of votes was collected from the Port Pirie early voting centre. (Nine)

The recount will take place tomorrow, attended by scrutineers and McLay herself.

Thomas slammed news of the recount as “very disappointing for my community in Narungga”.

“We’re being forced to wait – again – to see who will be Narungga’s representative in Parliament,” she said.

“Let’s be clear: this raises serious questions about the integrity of the South Australian election, whether the electoral commission was fully prepared for it, and how Labor’s new electoral laws – passed with Liberal support – impacted on the electoral commission’s preparations.

“Like everyone else, I’ll have to wait for the count on Friday. Afterwards I’m sure there will be more to say about it.”

An independent review into the election has been ordered by the government, Maher said.

“Elections are incredibly complex things to undertake. There are thousands of employees, hundreds of polling booths and over a million votes to count,” Maher said.

“We are now finalising terms of reference and in an addition to that an independent review of how the election was conducted and voters experience.”

Narungga was the final lower house seat to be called in the election, granting Pauline Hanson’s conservative party its fourth seat in Parliament.

The South Australian Liberal Party secured five seats in the Labor Party’s landslide victory on election night.

NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.

Celebrate Bananya’s 10th Anniversary: Stream All 39 Episodes Free on YouTube Now!

NewsFinale Journal
-
0

A decade ago, the production house Gathering brought a unique concept to the anime scene with the introduction of “Bananya,” an endearing cat that makes its home inside a banana peel. Celebrating the 10th anniversary of this beloved character, TMS Entertainment USA is set to expand access to the widely cherished TV series featuring the whimsical feline.

In honor of this milestone, TMS Entertainment has unveiled a special 10th-anniversary logo for the “Bananya” series, which fans can view below.

As detailed in a recent press release, TMS recently announced that it will release the English-dubbed episodes of all Bananya from Seasons 1-3, consisting of 39 three-minute anime shorts. An official watch party for Season 1 will be hosted on the “Anime! on TMS” YouTube channel on April 18, 2026. A second watch party for Bananya Season 2 has also been scheduled for May 2026.

Launched in 2016, the “Bananya” series follows the whimsical escapades of the titular character alongside his vibrant group of friends. According to the official website, Bananya is described as a creature that masquerades as an ordinary banana. When unobserved, it indulges in playful antics and mischief. The adorable character has a fondness for sweets and aspires to transform into a “stylish choco bananya.” The series also features other beloved characters, such as Bananyako, a fashionable “Madonna” with a love for style, and Kurobananya, a gourmet gentleman hailing from Europe.

Bananya Anime Gets Free English Dub Episodes on YouTube for 10th Anniversary

Bananya anime series 10 anniversary logo
The number “10” designed with cartoon bananas and an image of the cat, “Bananya” emerging out of the end of the “0” in “10.” Underneath words spell out, “10th Anniversary Bananya.”
Image via TMS Entertainment USA

Initially released in 2016, the Bananya series chronicles the daily adventures of the titular character and his colorful companions. Bananya’s official site describes the concept: “[Bananya] lives disguised as a real banana, and when no one’s around, it sneaks around playing and causing mischief. It loves playing with sweet treats, and its dream is to become a ‘stylish choco bananya.’” Other central characters include Bananyako, a fluffy “Madonna” who loves fashion and a gentlemanly gourmet from Europe named Kurobananya.

Despite fierce competition from the likes of Hello Kitty and Cinnamoroll, the Bananya franchise has successfully “slipped into the hearts” of fans worldwide. Season 1 of the Bananya anime series initially debuted in 2016. A second season, titled Bananya and the Curious Bunch, was released in 2019. Season 3, titled Bananya Around the World, hit the airwaves in 2024. The English dub for Season 3 has not yet been released and is scheduled to debut in June 2026.

Notably, the Bananya anime series has few official streaming homes for viewers outside Japan. Crunchyroll has made the original Japanese version of the series available (with subtitles) to subscribers in all major territories outside Asia. Alternatively, Hulu streams the English-dubbed version.

However, access to the streaming service is primarily limited to viewers located in the U.S. By hosting Bananya‘s dub on YouTube, TMS is able to reach English-speaking audiences in areas such as Australia and the UK, which lack access to Hulu’s expansive anime library.

Bananya‘s YouTube debut is just one of several major anniversary initiatives for the beloved fruit-dwelling feline. Masami Tokunaga, Senior Vice President of TMS Entertainment USA, hints that there is much more to come. “We are excited to celebrate Bananya‘s 10th anniversary this year. It has been a whole decade since the launch of the Bananya anime series…please stay tuned for more exciting Bananya news and updates, and let’s make this a memorable 10th anniversary together!”

According to TMS’ press release, Bananya‘s anniversary celebration will include various “merchandise, events and other celebratory projects.” Additionally, TMS Entertainment has confirmed the production of a new Bananya episode that will highlight “fan-favorite characters and delightful new adventures.” The release date of this commemorative episode has yet to be announced.

Season 1 of Bananya is slated to premiere on YouTube on April 18, 2026. The original Japanese-language version of Bananya is streaming on Crunchyroll. The English-dubbed version is available on Hulu.


03165075_poster_w780.jpg


Release Date

2016 – 2024-00-00

Network

TV Tokyo, TV Osaka, Teletama, TV Aichi, TVh, TVQ, TSC

Directors

Kyou Yatate


Cast

  • Yuki Kaji

    Bananya (voice)

  • Ayumu Murase

    Baby Sweet (voice)

  • Cast Placeholder Image

Teens Arrested in Fatal Kedron Church Road Shooting: 24-Year-Old Victim Identified

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Teens Arrested in Fatal Kedron Church Road Shooting: 24-Year-Old Victim Identified


AIKEN, S.C. – The Aiken County Sheriff’s Office announced Wednesday the arrest of two teenagers in connection with the fatal shooting of 24-year-old Justin Bryant.

Authorities have identified the suspects as 17-year-old Jamereon Rahiem Griffin from Saluda and a 16-year-old minor. Griffin was taken into custody on Wednesday, April 15, while the juvenile suspect was apprehended on Monday, April 13. Both individuals face charges of murder, armed robbery, criminal conspiracy, and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.

Griffin is currently detained at the Aiken County Detention Center, whereas the juvenile is held at the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice.

The tragic incident occurred on April 2 in the 900 block of Kedron Church Road.

The investigation remains active, and anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Aiken County Sheriff’s Office at (803) 642-1761.

K. Michelle Faces Pre-Show Struggle as Butt Injection Complications Arise

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
K. Michelle Faces Pre-Show Struggle as Butt Injection Complications Arise

In a preview of the next episode of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta,” K. Michelle opens up about a harrowing incident when her illegal silicone butt injections began leaking just before she was set to perform. The singer underwent an extensive two-hour surgery to remove infected tissue, yet she acknowledges that the silicone will remain in her body indefinitely. Despite this challenging situation, K. Michelle is resolute in her decision to move forward.

K. Michelle Breaks Down: Butt Injections Leak Before Show Crisis

Shocking Pre-Performance Panic at 2025 ACM Honors

The frightening experience occurred moments before her performance at the 2025 ACM Honors. K. Michelle, still in her bathrobe, had her team frantically blow-drying her buttocks to prepare her for the stage. However, doctors discovered an “opening” from a previous surgery that signaled an infection, bringing everything to a halt. This revelation led to an emotional breakdown for K. Michelle as she reflected on the decision she made back in 2012. Her experience, captured by “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” cameras, sheds light on the hidden dangers associated with black-market cosmetic enhancements.

This was not an isolated incident for K. Michelle, who had already endured nearly a decade of medical procedures, including blood transfusions. However, this particular leak necessitated immediate medical intervention, transforming what was meant to be a glamorous event into an urgent health crisis.

Why Illegal Silicone Injections Cause Lasting Damage

The illegal silicone injections, known for expanding significantly by absorbing bodily fluids, can cause severe deformities, pain, and even migration to other parts of the body. K. Michelle clarified that the real issue stemmed not from her Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) but from the silicone shots, which had spread to her legs and caused migraines, fatigue, and severe back pain.

Statistics reveal a concerning trend. According to the FDA, since 2010, over 1,000 adverse events have been reported related to illegal butt injections. In severe cases, the migration of silicone can lead to organ failure or even death. In a poignant confessional, K. Michelle shared a sobering reality: no surgery can completely remove the silicone. “It will be forever in me. I will never be fully healed,” she stated, offering a stark warning to anyone considering such risky shortcuts.

K. Michelle’s Decade-Long Battle and Surgery Details

Her journey began with unauthorized 2012 injections, sparking years of corrective ops. By 2022, she chronicled it in Lifetime’s My Killer Body with K. Michelle, exposing the industry’s underbelly. This latest two-hour procedure targeted infected tissue, but the silicone persists, a permanent resident defying removal.

Consider similar cases: patients like her face chronic inflammation, with studies showing 20-30% developing autoimmune issues from silicone granulomas. That resilience? It’s her edge. Post-op, she vows to push ahead, channeling pain into purpose on RHOA season 17, airing Sundays at 8/7c on Bravo.

@bravotv K. Michelle is sharing a cautionary tale. #RHOA #RealHousewivesOfAtlanta #KMichelle #WhatToWatch #RealityTV ♬ K Michelle Health Scare from RHOA – Bravo

Key Lessons from K. Michelle’s Silicone Nightmare

  • Prioritize board-certified surgeons: Black-market ops skip safety checks, unlike FDA-approved implants or fat transfers with 95% lower complication rates.

  • Spot red flags early: Leaking, unexplained pain, or swelling demand immediate ER visits; delays amplify risks like sepsis.

  • Seek mental health support: Body image pressures fuel 70% of illicit procedures, per ASPS data. Therapy aids lasting confidence without scalpels.

K. Michelle on The Real Housewives of Atlanta

Her candor educates, urging caution in a $15 billion cosmetic industry rife with shortcuts. K. Michelle emerges stronger, proving survival shapes the best anthems. Tune in April 19 for the full episode.

Brad Underwood Leads Inspiring Annual Kickin’ Cancer Event

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Brad Underwood Leads Inspiring Annual Kickin’ Cancer Event


GIFFORD, Ill. – A sea of enthusiastic Illini fans descended upon Gordyville USA in Gifford, Illinois, on Wednesday, gathering for an inspiring cause. The event, orchestrated to support Coaches vs. Cancer and The American Cancer Society, drew thousands of participants eager to contribute.

The highlight of the evening was the annual Kickin’ Cancer event, hosted by Illinois head men’s basketball coach Brad Underwood. The gathering featured an engaging mix of activities, including a live auction and a silent auction, all aimed at fundraising for cancer research and support.

Traditionally, this event boasts special guests from various Division I basketball programs across the nation. However, this year took a celebratory turn as the spotlight shone on the Illini men’s basketball squad. The players, who made an impressive run to the Final Four in the 2025-26 season, were the stars of the night, sharing their journey and achievements with the crowd.

Adding to the excitement, three players from the Illinois team took the opportunity to announce their intentions to return for the 2026-27 season, much to the delight of the fans present.

Among the coveted auction items were autographed NBA uniforms from former Illini stars, and Coach Underwood’s iconic orange jumpsuit, both of which sparked competitive bidding and contributed to the evening’s fundraising success.

“This is one of my favorite events,” Underwood said. “It’s been fun to see it grow. Thanks to so many that have sponsored us and helped us.”

Meghan Markle Speaks Out on a Decade of Online Bullying as Prince Harry’s Awkward Selfie Goes Viral

NewsFinale Journal
-
0
Meghan Markle Speaks Out on a Decade of Online Bullying as Prince Harry’s Awkward Selfie Goes Viral

Meghan Markle shared with her Australian fans today that she has endured relentless online harassment for a decade, describing herself as “the most trolled person in the entire world.”

Her remarks followed an incident where her husband, Prince Harry, appeared visibly irritated when Meghan was momentarily blocked by someone seeking a selfie during an event celebrating Aboriginal culture.

On the third day of their tour in Australia, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex engaged with students in Melbourne, discussing the perils of social media and its effects on mental health. They encouraged the young audience to remain resilient.

“I speak from personal experience, which is why I listen so intently—it resonates with me deeply,” Meghan explained.

She continued, “For a decade, day in and day out, I’ve been subjected to bullying and attacks. I was the most trolled individual globally.” Meghan concluded with a message of perseverance, adding, “I’m still here.”

Meghan made the comments during a discussion with young people associated with Australian mental health organisation Batyr at Melbourne’s Swinburne University of Technology on Thursday. 

During the same group discussion, Harry said Australia’s ban on under-16s using social media was ‘epic’ from a ‘responsibility and leadership standpoint’. 

It was the couple’s last day in Australia’s second city before they fly to Sydney and It came as all Meghan’s outfits from her tour continue to be uploaded to the OneOff website – described as the ‘Spotify of fashion’ – where Meghan will take a percentage of any sales.

Earlier in the day the couple Meghan was spotted wearing a ‘Mama’ t-shirt designed by her best friend Kelly McKee Zajfen while on the Scar Tree Walk in Melbourne with Harry. 

The $40 white tee with a red heart is now for sale on Meghan’s OneOff page along with the $169 blue jeans, $599 trench and $298 trainers she wore with it at the event honouring Australia’s aboriginal culture.

The dress, tights and jewellery she later wore to the university was also immediately available on OneOff to fans who want her ‘look’, in return for around $1,000.

Meghan Markle meets students Batyr, a mental health engagement programme, at Swinburne University of Technology, where she said she was the most ‘trolled person in the entire world’

Meghan hugged one young mental health advocate at the event on Thursday

Meghan hugged one young mental health advocate at the event on Thursday

Prince Harry looked cheesed off when a reporter asked for a selfie as they leave the Scar Tree Walk in Melbourne, getting in Meghan's way

Prince Harry looked cheesed off when a reporter asked for a selfie as they leave the Scar Tree Walk in Melbourne, getting in Meghan’s way

Earlier in the day Meghan’s protective husband looked annoyed when he was cornered by a television reporter for an awkward selfie.

The Duke of Sussex appeared to prod Paul Dowsley out of Meghan’s path when he asked for a picture before later brushing off the incident and telling the Channel 7 reporter they were ‘still friends’.

Speaking in a classroom at Melbourne’s Swinburne University of Technology, Meghan said social media companies were ‘not incentivised to stop’.

She said: ‘And when I think of all of you and what you’re experiencing, I think so much of that is having to realise that you know that industry, that billion-dollar industry, that is completely anchored and predicated on cruelty to get clicks – that’s not going to change.

‘So you have to be stronger than that.’

Harry then backed Australia’s ban on under-16s using social media was ‘epic’.

The Duke of Sussex told the young people gathered that social media had ‘led to so much loneliness for so many people’. 

Wearing a blue shirt and jeans, the Duke said: ‘Australia took the lead. 

‘Your government was the first country in the world to bring about a ban.

‘Now we can sit here and debate the pros and cons of a ban – I’m not here to judge that.

‘All I will say is from a responsibility and leadership standpoint – epic.

He added: ‘Because so many countries have now followed suit, but it should have never got to a ban.’

Discussing the benefits of therapy with them, Harry said: ‘I waited until I was literally in the fetal position, much older, lying on the kitchen floor. Until I was like, ok maybe this therapy thing – maybe I should try it.’ 

Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, depart Swinburne University after a visit to the 'batyr'

Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, depart Swinburne University after a visit to the ‘batyr’

The Duchess of Sussex talks to young advocates during a visit to Batyr and described her own experiences

The Duchess of Sussex talks to young advocates during a visit to Batyr and described her own experiences

Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, poses for a selfie photo at the Scar Tree Walk in Melbourne earlier in the day

The couple stopped for selfies on the famous Scar Tree Walk

The couple stopped for selfies on the famous Scar Tree Walk

The couple were happy to pose with members of the public in Melbourne

The couple were happy to pose with members of the public in Melbourne 

But Harry looked less happy when an Australian reporter asked for one

But Harry looked less happy when an Australian reporter asked for one

The duke and duchess have long campaigned to raise awareness about the harms of social media.

Harry said: ‘It should have never, ever got to a ban. And now that the ban is in place, now what follows?

‘Because the companies themselves have to be accountable, and there’s no way that young people should be punished by being banned from something that should be safe to use, no matter what.’

The duke also discussed regional differences in mental health support with the young people, telling them: ‘I’m not a city person, my mental health could not stand living in a city – no way.’

Batyr is a preventative youth mental health organisation, which delivers peer-to-peer programmes in schools, universities and workplaces and ‘uses lived experience storytelling to spark conversations around mental health’.

It is hosting a two-day workshop in Melbourne to address the challenges faced by rural and remote young people, ‘being left behind by a crisis-driven mental health system’.

Batyr was founded in 2011 by Sebastian Robertson, who decided to share his experience of mental ill-health to ‘normalise conversations and provide hope to young people going through tough times’.

The organisation, named after an elephant in a Kazakhstan zoo which was claimed to be able to use more than 20 human phrases, works to address a ‘youth mental health crisis in Australia’.

Meghan Markle is now making money out of fans buying her clothes after putting details of her wardrobe online following a deal with an AI-powered fashion website.

The Duchess of Sussex has become a participant and investor in OneOff so she can promote the outfits she has worn during her tour of Australia.

At Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital on Tuesday, Meghan wore a $1,250 ‘Priscilla’ dress from local designer Karen Gee, with $780 ‘Puffy Hearts’ stud earrings by Real Fine Studio and $120 ‘Iridescent’ Christian Dior leather pumps.

Later at the Australian National Veterans Arts Museum, she had a $1,000 St Agni suede ‘Utility Cocoon Bomber’ jacket, an $890 suede ‘Column skirt’ by the same brand; a $220 ‘Annie’ top by PJ Femme and ‘Purist’ 105mm pointed-toe pumps by Aquazzura which are sold out in the US but cost £479 ($904) in the UK.

OneOff, an American firm based in Los Angeles, also features photos of Meghan from previous events and at her home with options to buy the clothing she is wearing.

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex pose for a photo during a Scar Tree Walk as the honoured Aboriginal culture

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex pose for a photo during a Scar Tree Walk as the honoured Aboriginal culture

The Duke of Sussex then went to deliver the keynote speech at the InterEdge Summit, at Centrepiece in Melbourne Park, Victoria on day three of the royal trip

The Duke of Sussex then went to deliver the keynote speech at the InterEdge Summit, at Centrepiece in Melbourne Park, Victoria on day three of the royal trip

Today the Duke, 41, looked miffed was cornered by a television reporter for an awkward selfie.

But after a brief walk through Melbourne’s Fitzroy Gardens, Harry was ambushed by Channel 7 reporter Paul Dowsley, who excitedly tried to snap a photo.

The reporter told the Daily Mail that the interactions with the Prince were all good-humoured, and that the royal had even complimented him on his flowered tie.

‘I suppose it’s a break in protocol to ask for a selfie with a royal but he told me that I’m always so well-dressed,’ he said.

Meghan Markle will be guest-starring on the new season of MasterChef Australia and fans of the beloved series are not happy.

Channel 10 took to Instagram on Wednesday evening to make the announcement, alongside an image of the Duchess of Sussex smiling proudly alongside judges Jean-Christophe Novelli, Poh Ling Yeow and Sofia Levin.

‘We’re welcoming someone SUPER special into the MasterChef Kitchen,’ the caption began.

‘Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, makes a special guest appearance this season as she returns to Australia for the first time since 2018,’ it continued.

MasterChef Australia also shared footage of the moment Poh introduces Megan to this year’s cast.
1...193194195...2,839Page 194 of 2,839

Subscribe for exclusive content

We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.

Subscribe

Copyright Newsfinal Publications.