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Unveiling the Mystery: The Truth Behind Olivia Wilde’s ‘Insecure’ Facial Expressions

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Olivia Wilde’s recent appearance at the San Francisco International Film Festival stirred up some chatter among her followers.

The buzz wasn’t just about a video circulating online that showed the actress looking noticeably slimmer than before. It also followed rumors that her former partner, Harry Styles, 32, might be engaged to actress Zoe Kravitz after just eight months of dating.

When Kravitz, 37, was spotted flaunting what appeared to be a $1 million diamond ring, attention quickly shifted to Wilde, 42. Her past two-year romance with the former One Direction star had been a constant topic in the tabloids, often highlighted by quirky stories, including a famed ‘salad dressing’ recipe.

Despite the whirlwind of attention, nearly four years post-breakup, Wilde appeared composed as she promoted her new directorial project, The Invite, at the festival on April 24.

A source revealed to the Daily Mail that, while the end of her relationship with Styles was indeed ‘painful,’ Wilde, who is a mother of two, has managed to move forward. The insider noted that both Wilde and Styles have happily transitioned beyond their past romance.

‘When Harry and Olivia split, it was the hardest breakup he had ever gone through,’ the source told the Daily Mail.

Olivia Wilde, 42, attended the 2026 San Francisco Film Festival on April 24, where she shocked fans with her appearance

Wilde's ex-boyfriend Harry Styles, 32, is rumored to be engaged to actress Zoe Kravitz, 37, after eight months of dating (pictured in March 2026)

Wilde’s ex-boyfriend Harry Styles, 32, is rumored to be engaged to actress Zoe Kravitz, 37, after eight months of dating (pictured in March 2026)

‘He recorded an entire album about what he was going through, but it never saw the light of day. He decided it was best to keep it private and move on,’ the source continued.

‘Now that he’s met Zoe, he is so happy and it all makes sense why he went through that.’

They added, ‘The breakup with Harry was very painful for Olivia too, but she’s dated other people and has moved on.’

Another source defended Wilde, telling the Daily Mail: ‘The wide angle lens that is circulating an unflattering photo is unfair. She’s always been skinny. She works out and eats healthy. She looks the same.

The source also said that how she looked last week ‘had nothing to do with him,’ adding: ‘Her movie was the highest selling film in Sundance, she has a wonderful family and is a great mom.’

Wilde sparked conversation this week when a clip from the San Francisco International Film Festival appeared to show the director looking wide-eyed and gaunt.

Some critics took the opportunity to lash out against Hollywood’s beauty standards and the influx of celebrities admitting to using GLP-1 medications for weight loss. 

However, defenders suggested the distorted look was actually due to the camera angle of the video.

Despite the confusion surrounding Wilde’s recent appearance, the source explained to the Daily Mail how the actress doesn’t take such speculation lightly.

‘Olivia has always been a bit insecure and she cares what people think about her. Everyone does and just because she’s famous, she’s no different,’ they said.

Her nearly two-year romance with Styles has received renewed attention after Page Six reported last week that Styles and Kravitz are engaged, and that he is ‘completely smitten’ with Kravitz.

Styles famously met Wilde while working on her second directorial feature, Don’t Worry Darling, in late 2020. 

In November that year, it was reported that Wilde had ended her engagement to Saturday Night Live Alum Jason Sudeikis, 50, after nine years together.

The former couple share son Otis Alexander, 12, and daughter Daisy Josephine, nine.

Wilde and Styles first sparked romance speculation after they were seen holding hands at his manager Jeffrey Azoff’s wedding in Montecito, California, in January 2021. 

However, the outing caused quite a frenzy among Styles’ devoted fanbase, who pointed out their 10-year age gap and fueled rumors Wilde had cheated on Sudeikis while filming Don’t Worry Darling.

The actress later shut down the cheating allegations in an interview with Vanity Fair.

‘The complete horses**t idea that I left Jason for Harry is completely inaccurate,’ she told the magazine in September 2022, insisting that their ‘relationship was over long before’ she met Styles on the set.

Wilde and Styles dated for nearly two years after meeting on the set of Wilde's second directorial feature, Don't Worry Darling, in late 2020 (pictured in March 2022)

Wilde and Styles dated for nearly two years after meeting on the set of Wilde’s second directorial feature, Don’t Worry Darling, in late 2020 (pictured in March 2022)

Wilde and Styles received increased speculation about their relationship amid rumors of behind the scenes drama of Don't Worry Darling (pictured in September 2022)

Wilde and Styles received increased speculation about their relationship amid rumors of behind the scenes drama of Don’t Worry Darling (pictured in September 2022)

‘Like any relationship that ends, it doesn’t end overnight. Unfortunately, Jason and I had a very bumpy road, and we officially dissolved the relationship towards the beginning of the pandemic.’

But that didn’t stop the increased speculation into their relationship.

Wilde and Styles’ rumored romance began to heat up throughout 2021 and into 2022. By February 2021, it was reported that Wilde and Styles had been living together in his Los Angeles home, as she was pictured moving some belongings into his home that Valentine’s Day.

They were seen vacationing in Italy that summer, sharing a passionate kiss on a yacht in Monte Argentario. Wilde was also spotted supporting Styles at a Love on Tour concert stop in Las Vegas that September, and even sported a Love on Tour t-shirt two months later.

It was reported in December 2021 that Styles was ‘slowly’ getting to know Wilde’s two children, and the singer even mentioned to Rolling Stone the following August that he was thinking more seriously about having kids of his own.

While the pair kept many details about their relationship private, fans did speculate that the lyrics to his single As It Was – released in April 2022 – were about the actress, as Styles sings: ‘I don’t wanna talk about the way that it was, leave America, two kids follow her, I don’t wanna talk about who’s doin’ it first.’

Styles also spoke about protecting his relationships from the public, telling Rolling Stone: ‘There’s always going to be a version of a narrative, and I think I just decided I wasn’t going to spend the time trying to correct it or redirect it in some way.’

Meanwhile, Wilde echoed their desire to protect their relationship in an interview with Variety.

Wilde previously told Variety that she and Styles want to 'protect' their relationship from 'being dragged into the public arena' (pictured in August 2022)

Wilde previously told Variety that she and Styles want to ‘protect’ their relationship from ‘being dragged into the public arena’ (pictured in August 2022)

‘I’m not going to say anything about it because I’ve never seen a relationship benefit from being dragged into the public arena,’ she said in August 2022. ‘We both go out of our way to protect our relationship; I think it’s out of experience, but also just out of deep love.’

Don’t Worry Darling hit theaters in September 2022, but the release of the film was largely overshadowed by off-screen drama.

While promoting the film at CinemaCon in Las Vegas in April 2022, Wilde was handed a mysterious envelope marked ‘Personal and Confidential’ by a woman in the audience.

It was revealed that the envelope contained legal papers served by Sudeikis regarding their two children, a move that Wilde told Vanity Fair she was ‘deeply saddened’ and ‘disturbed’ by.

A representative for Sudeikis later said in a statement that the actor ‘had no prior knowledge’ his ex would be given the custody papers so publicly, and he ‘would never condone her being served in such an inappropriate manner.’

Her breakup from Sudiekis made even further headlines when their former nanny shared intimate details about the celebrity couple’s split in an exclusive interview with the Daily Mail, describing how Sudeikis was left heartbroken and Wilde was besotted with Styles.

She further claimed that Sudeikis became infuriated after seeing Wilde prepare a salad for Styles with her ‘special dressing’ in the family kitchen, leaving him ranting furiously at her, before he tried to prevent her leaving by lying under the car.

At the time, Wilde and Sudeikis shared in a joint statement to the Daily Mail: ‘As parents, it is incredibly upsetting to learn that a former nanny of our two young children would choose to make such false and scurrilous accusations about us publicly.

Wilde was previously engaged to actor Jason Sudeikis for seven years. The former couple share two children: son Otis and daughter Daisy (pictured in January 2020)

Wilde was previously engaged to actor Jason Sudeikis for seven years. The former couple share two children: son Otis and daughter Daisy (pictured in January 2020)

Wilde was served custody papers by Sudeikis at CinemaCon in Las Vegas in April 2022 (seen). She later told Vanity Fair she was 'deeply saddened' and 'disturbed' by the public move

Wilde was served custody papers by Sudeikis at CinemaCon in Las Vegas in April 2022 (seen). She later told Vanity Fair she was ‘deeply saddened’ and ‘disturbed’ by the public move

‘Her now 18-month-long campaign of harassing us, as well as loved ones, close friends and colleagues, has reached its unfortunate apex.

‘We will continue to focus on raising and protecting our children with the sincere hope that she will now choose to leave our family alone.’

The former couple’s nanny later filed a wrongful termination lawsuit against them in February 2023, alleging in her filing that she was put in the middle of the celebrity couple’s split. 

In August that year, a judge ruled for the case to be moved to arbitration. 

Representatives for Wilde and Sudeikis later declared in a statement to the Daily Mail that the ‘lawsuit [had] been fully dismissed.’

‘Both Olivia and Jason are hopeful they can finally close this chapter after what has not only been a selfish grab for financial gain, but a shameless exploitation of their trust played out in the media,’ they said.

In September 2023, the former couple finally settled their custody battle, with the Ted Lasso actor agreeing to pay $27,500 in monthly child support for their two children, according to court documents obtained by the Daily Mail.

The exes agreed to share joint custody of their son Otis and daughter Daisy on a ‘week-on, week-off basis.’

In November 2022, it was reported that Styles and Wilde were 'taking a break' from their relationship as the singer resumed his 'Love On Tour' concert dates (pictured in February 2026)

In November 2022, it was reported that Styles and Wilde were ‘taking a break’ from their relationship as the singer resumed his ‘Love On Tour’ concert dates (pictured in February 2026)

Styles and Kravitz sparked romance speculation in August 2025 when they were frequently pictured together across Europe and New York (pictured in March 2026)

Styles and Kravitz sparked romance speculation in August 2025 when they were frequently pictured together across Europe and New York (pictured in March 2026)

As Wilde’s bitter custody battle played out in the public, her relationship with Styles appeared to run its course. 

In November 2022, it was reported that the pair were ‘taking a break’ from their relationship, as Styles resumed his world tour and Wilde remained in Los Angeles.

Although they appeared to press pause on their relationship, it soon became clear that Styles and Wilde had gone their separate ways when the singer became romantically linked to actress Taylor Russell in June 2023.

Since then, Styles has sparked romance rumors with model Emily Ratajkowski, singer Olivia Dean and producer Ella Kenny. 

By August 2025, he was speculated to be dating Kravitz after the two were frequently photographed together throughout Europe and New York.

As for Wilde, it seems that her co-parenting relationship with Sudeikis has turned a positive corner in recent years.

Just days after news of Styles’ rumored engagement surfaced, Wilde reunited with her ex-fiancé in Los Angeles. She was seen dropping her children off with Sudeikis, as the two shared a hug.

Two years after her split from Styles, the director also sparked romance speculation with former basketball player Dane DiLiegro. Wilde is now reportedly dating British art dealer Caspar Jopling, to whom she was first linked in September 2025.

Representatives for Wilde declined to comment to the Daily Mail. 

Suspect Apprehended in Connection with Alleged Meth Lab Operation at Michigan State University’s Major Academic Facility

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A suspect has been taken into custody following allegations of operating a clandestine meth lab at Wells Hall, Michigan State University’s largest academic facility.

Authorities have charged 31-year-old Xin Tong with felony offenses related to the operation, along with a misdemeanor for trespassing, as confirmed by police reports.

Police were called to Wells Hall earlier this week after receiving reports about a suspicious individual, an overpowering chemical odor, and unknown substances found on the premises, as reported by WILX. Upon arrival, officers encountered Tong and verified his identity using an expired MSU student ID card.

Xin Tong

After obtaining a search warrant, officers examined multiple bags in Tong’s possession, uncovering bottles that contained substances typically associated with meth production, according to the news outlet.

Tong was in possession of multiple bags, which officers later searched through after obtaining a search warrant, discovering several bottles containing substances commonly used in the manufacture of meth, according to the outlet.

“The chemicals include sodium hydroxide pellets, hydrochloric acid, methanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone, and butane. Multiple tests performed by the Office of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) confirm the environment in Wells Hall does not pose a risk to our community,” MSU police said.

Officials later clarified that a meth lab was never located inside Wells Hall.

Michigan State

Officers discovered several bottles containing substances commonly used in the manufacture of meth inside Xin Tong’s bags. (Getty Images)

“The suspect was found in possession of chemicals and/or equipment that could be used in the production of methamphetamine, which were contained within his personal property,” police said.

Tong allegedly caused significant damage to the doors, flooring, and fixtures in Wells Hall between April 10 and April 26.

He has been charged with trespassing, malicious destruction of a building over $20,000 and felony controlled substance-operate/maintain lab involving methamphetamine.

MSU flag

Xin Tong allegedly caused significant damage to the doors, flooring, and fixtures in Wells Hall between April 10 and April 26. (Getty Images)

Wells Hall was evacuated on Monday, and it remained closed through Friday “out of an abundance of caution,” the university said in a press release, adding that there “continues to be no known threat to the campus community.”

Tong is being held at the Ingham County Jail on a $500,000 bond. The Department of Homeland Security also reportedly placed a hold on his bond.

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Breaking News: Partner of Ex-Queensland Premier Faces Serious Rape Charges

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Prominent surgeon Dr Reza Adib, the partner of former long-serving Queensland premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, has been charged with three counts of rape, two counts of deprivation of liberty and one count of sexual assault.
Police allege Adib sexually assaulted a woman in her 30s at an address at Goodwin Terrace at Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast on March 30.

Yesterday afternoon, law enforcement officials were observed entering and exiting a beachfront apartment, departing with several bags of evidence in tow.

Dr Reza Adib arrive for the state funeral for former Governor-General and Labor leader Bill Hayden in Ipswich, west of Brisbane, November 3, 2023.
Dr Reza Adib has been charged with three counts of rape. (SMH)

Earlier today, Adib made an appearance at the Southport Police Station, where he was formally charged. Subsequently, he was released on police bail later the same afternoon.

Accompanied by his attorney, Adib exited the station, choosing not to respond to questions posed by the gathered journalists.

Later, his attorney, Dan Rogers, released a formal statement regarding the situation.

“Dr. Adib is taken aback by the allegations against him and is addressing the issue with utmost seriousness,” the statement read.

“Like all persons accused of a crime, he is presumed to be innocent and intends to vigorously defend the charges.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and her partner Dr Reza Adib arrive for the state funeral for former Governor-General and Labor leader Bill Hayden in Ipswich, west of Brisbane, November 3, 2023.  Picture: Dan Peled
Adib with partner and former Queensland premier Annastacia Palaszczuk. Palaszczuk is not accused of any wrongdoing. (Dan Peled / The Sydney Morning Herald)

“Right now, Dr Adib is primarily concerned about the welfare of his family and his patients and he will do whatever it takes to ensure that they are looked after in the coming weeks.”

Adib, a bariatric surgeon at the Brisbane Obesity Clinic, is due to appear in Southport Magistrates’ Court on May 14.

Authorities have stressed Palaszczuk was not involved and there is no suggestion of any wrongdoing on her part.

The pair have been together since 2021.

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Adult Son Attributes Childhood Trauma to Mother’s Relationship with Estranged Father

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DEAR ABBY: My husband and I have been living separately for 15 years. Our two adult children are both on the autism spectrum. For the last couple of years, our daughter has resided with her father because she refused to participate in the household responsibilities at my place, which included simple tasks like cleaning up after herself, caring for her pet, and flushing the toilet.

Recently, my ex-husband has started dating someone, and he insists on including his girlfriend whenever he spends time with our daughter. He also holds me accountable for our son’s unwillingness to interact with him. My son, now 25, has distanced himself due to a traumatic incident where his father physically abused him when he was 12. He harbors resentment towards me as well for what transpired. I am seeking guidance on how to mend these fractured relationships. — STRUGGLING MOM IN PENNSYLVANIA

DEAR STRUGGLING MOM: Repairing a rift that you didn’t cause is nearly impossible, but you can avoid being caught in the crossfire. Being on the spectrum doesn’t preclude someone from understanding and following household rules. Your daughter needs to adapt to the environment, even if it means accepting her father’s new family dynamic.

Regarding your son, you are not responsible for the abuse he suffered at the hands of your estranged husband. If your son is still living under your roof, it’s crucial to establish boundaries. Inform him that disrespectful behavior is unacceptable, and if it continues, he may need to find alternative living arrangements. It’s important for both of you to start living independently and constructively.

DEAR ABBY: I have worked as a shuttle driver for a decade, and during this time, a particular customer and his wife have consistently utilized my services for about four years. Throughout this period, I have ensured they received excellent service. The wife frequently expresses her appreciation for the rides and often remarks on how much they value what I do.

I have sometimes driven them to the airport and home in dangerous driving conditions. He is retired, and his wife works from home as a lawyer. They have a second home in warmer weather. They obviously are not hurting for money. Unfortunately, the husband is the one who pays the fare, and, when he does, he gives me a $2.00 tip. That’s a whopping 3.17% tip on a $63.00 fare. 


Multiple yellow taxi cabs driving through a city street at night, with motion blur.
This reader has a regular customer who tipped them just 3.17 percent on a $63 fare. Getty Images

I consider anything under 10% cheap and insulting unless the customer can’t afford even that much, or any amount, which sometimes happens. I don’t believe in pressuring my customers for tips, so I haven’t mentioned it to either of them. My average tip is about 15%, and I often receive more than 25%. How would you deal with this? — DRIVING AN EASY BARGAIN

DEAR DRIVING: Let me phrase it this way: I would remember that I was in a service business, dealing with many kinds of people — some more generous than others. Then I would try to decide whether I wanted to be as available to the stingy ones.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

Discover Alyona Iljuhhina: MasterChef Australia’s Rising Star – Age, Heritage, and Personal Journey

Alyona Iljuhhina Biography – Alyona Iljuhhina Wiki

Alyona Iljuhhina hails from Estonia and is a distinguished pharmacist, clinical nutritionist, and wellness expert, boasting over 14 years in the realms of pharmaceutical sciences and clinical research. A passionate food lover, Alyona is making her mark as a contestant on the 2026 season of MasterChef Australia, airing on Channel 10.

Her early years in the former Soviet Union and subsequent upbringing in Estonia introduced her to a straightforward culinary style, which has shaped her unique cooking perspective and fervor for flavor. Embracing a no-waste philosophy from a young age, Alyona learned to cherish each ingredient meticulously.

Following in the footsteps of her physician parents, Alyona pursued a career in science, earning a master’s degree in pharmacy and another in clinical nutrition. Her academic journey took her across the UK and Scotland, culminating in a five-year stint in Ireland. During a break from her scientific career, she worked in the front-of-house at a Dublin restaurant, where the head chef’s seasonal menus ignited her deep-seated passion for gastronomy.

Alyona made the move to Australia in 2019. Her fascination with the country’s coastal offerings and fresh, seasonal produce has sparked a profound appreciation for native ingredients and indigenous spices. Her cooking style, characterized by intuition, creativity, and soulfulness, emphasizes flavor and strongly ties back to her Slavic-Baltic heritage.

Currently engaged in Clinical Research, Alyona acknowledges the healing potential of food. Looking forward, she aspires to create programs and retreats aimed at enhancing women’s wellness through soulful, flavorful cuisine that tells a story and fosters connection, offering nourishment that transcends the dining experience. Her mission is to empower individuals to make their culinary endeavors simple, delectable, and inspiring, serving as a foundation for improved health.

Alyona Iljuhhina Age

MasterChef contestant Alyona Iljuhhina was born in 1986 in the former USSR. She was raised in post-Soviet Estonia.

MasterChef Australia

38-year-old Alyona Iljuhhina is a contestant on the 18th season of MasterChef Australia, under the watchful eye of judges Andy Allen, Poh Ling Yeow, Jean-Christophe Novelli and Sofia Levin. Supported by her mother and sister back home in Estonia as she lives out her MasterChef Australia dream, Alyona strongly believes that the competition will unveil a whole new layer of magic in her life, and she is ready for it.

“I’m in the Top 24 on MasterChef 2026, Season 18,” Alyona announced. “So excited for everything that’s about to unfold – cooking alongside these legends, all the fun, a bit of chaos and the magic of the MasterChef kitchen!”

Alyona Iljuhhina Heritage

Alyona Iljuhhina is of Slavic-Baltic heritage.

Instagram

Alyona is on Instagram @Alyona.Iljuhhina.

Open Heaven 1 May 2026 – The Mighty Hand Of God (1)

Open Heaven 1 May 2026 Friday Daily Devotional By Pastor E. A. Adeboye – The Mighty Hand Of God (1)

Open Heaven 1 May 2026 TOPIC – The Mighty Hand Of God (1)

MEMORISE: And the hand of the Lord was on Elijah; and he girded up his loins, and ran before Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel. – 1 Kings 18:46 (KJV)

READ: Nehemiah 2:1-18 (KJV)

1 And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that wine was before him: and I took up the wine, and gave it unto the king. Now I had not been beforetime sad in his presence.

2 Wherefore the king said unto me, Why is thy countenance sad, seeing thou art not sick? this is nothing else but sorrow of heart. Then I was very sore afraid,

3 And said unto the king, Let the king live for ever: why should not my countenance be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers’ sepulchres, lieth waste, and the gates thereof are consumed with fire?

4 Then the king said unto me, For what dost thou make request? So I prayed to the God of heaven.

5 And I said unto the king, If it please the king, and if thy servant have found favour in thy sight, that thou wouldest send me unto Judah, unto the city of my fathers’ sepulchres, that I may build it.

6 And the king said unto me, (the queen also sitting by him,) For how long shall thy journey be? and when wilt thou return? So it pleased the king to send me; and I set him a time.

7 Moreover I said unto the king, If it please the king, let letters be given me to the governors beyond the river, that they may convey me over till I come into Judah;

8 And a letter unto Asaph the keeper of the king’s forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the palace which appertained to the house, and for the wall of the city, and for the house that I shall enter into. And the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me.

9 Then I came to the governors beyond the river, and gave them the king’s letters. Now the king had sent captains of the army and horsemen with me.

10 When Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, heard of it, it grieved them exceedingly that there was come a man to seek the welfare of the children of Israel.

11 So I came to Jerusalem, and was there three days.

12 And I arose in the night, I and some few men with me; neither told I any man what my God had put in my heart to do at Jerusalem: neither was there any beast with me, save the beast that I rode upon.

13 And I went out by night by the gate of the valley, even before the dragon well, and to the dung port, and viewed the walls of Jerusalem, which were broken down, and the gates thereof were consumed with fire.

14 Then I went on to the gate of the fountain, and to the king’s pool: but there was no place for the beast that was under me to pass.

15 Then went I up in the night by the brook, and viewed the wall, and turned back, and entered by the gate of the valley, and so returned.

16 And the rulers knew not whither I went, or what I did; neither had I as yet told it to the Jews, nor to the priests, nor to the nobles, nor to the rulers, nor to the rest that did the work.

17 Then said I unto them, Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach.

18 Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me; as also the king’s words that he had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands for this good work.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 Chronicles 7-9

Open Heaven 1 May 2026 MESSAGE

Years ago, I sat for a mathematics examination, and when I was handed the question sheet, I discovered that I could not understand any of the questions. Even though I was really good at mathematics, my mind had become totally blank. By then, I was sweating profusely. I looked around me, and I saw my course mates writing earnestly. Since I knew that any student who failed an examination would be allowed to retake it the following year, I decided to leave the examination hall after a while. As I was about to stand up, I felt a mighty, though invisible, hand pin me to my seat. After another 15 minutes of wondering what to do, I decided to go through the questions again. Suddenly, I realized that my understanding had returned to me, and I could now answer all of them. I started answering the questions, and I was able to finish answering them within the stipulated time. By the grace of God, I passed the examination with flying colours. Several years after the incident, I realized that it was God’s mighty hand that kept me on my seat during the examination, restored my understanding, and gave me supernatural speed. Even though I started slowly, His hand made me catch up with and even overtake some of my course mates who had started writing before me.

In today’s memory verse, the mighty hand of the Lord rested on Elijah, and he outran the king’s chariot, which must have been pulled by the fastest horses in Israel at the time. God’s mighty hand gave him supernatural speed. Likewise, in today’s Bible reading, when Nehemiah wanted to return to Jerusalem to rebuild it, the mighty hand of God gave him great favour before the heathen king he worked for and also before the leaders in Jerusalem. He experienced supernatural speed in rebuilding the walls and gates of Jerusalem because of God’s mighty hand upon him.

Beloved, if you are a child of God, you can also experience the mighty hand of God upon you by spending quality time in prayer and studying His word daily. You must also humble yourself before Him and commit all your ways to Him so that you can receive His grace that births supernatural speed (James 4:6). I pray for you today that the mighty hand of God will rest upon you and give you supernatural clarity and speed in all areas of your life, in Jesus’ name.

Open Heaven 1 May 2026 PRAYER POINT

Father, please let Your mighty hand rest upon me and grant me supernatural understanding, speed, and favour, in Jesus’ name.

Open Heaven 1 May 2026 HYMN 1 – All Hail The Pow’r Of Jesus’ Name

1 All hail the power of Jesus’ Name!
Let angels prostrate fall;
Bring forth the royal diadem,
and crown Him Lord of all.
Bring forth the royal diadem,
and crown Him Lord of all.

2 Let highborn seraphs tune the lyre,
and as they tune it, fall
Before His face Who tunes their choir,
and crown Him Lord of all.
Before His face Who tunes their choir,
and crown Him Lord of all.

3 Crown Him, ye morning stars of light,
Who fixed this floating ball;
Now hail the strength of Israel’s might,
and crown Him Lord of all.
Now hail the strength of Israel’s might,
and crown Him Lord of all.

4 Crown Him, ye martyrs of your God,
who from His altar call;
Extol the Stem of Jesse’s Rod,
and crown Him Lord of all.
Extol the Stem of Jesse’s Rod,
and crown Him Lord of all.

5 Ye seed of Israel’s chosen race,
ye ransomed from the fall,
Hail Him Who saves you by His grace,
and crown Him Lord of all.
Hail Him Who saves you by His grace,
and crown Him Lord of all.

6 Hail Him, ye heirs of David’s line,
Whom David Lord did call,
The God incarnate, Man divine,
and crown Him Lord of all,
The God incarnate, Man divine,
and crown Him Lord of all.

7 Sinners, whose love can ne’er forget
the wormwood and the gall,
Go spread your trophies at His feet,
and crown Him Lord of all.
Go spread your trophies at His feet,
and crown Him Lord of all.

8 Let every tribe and every tongue
before Him prostrate fall
And shout in universal song
the crowned Lord of all.
And shout in universal song
the crowned Lord of all

Accessing the Devotional
The Open Heavens devotional is conveniently available as an application across all major mobile platforms and operating systems, including iOS, Android, Nokia, Windows Mobile, and PC. This wide accessibility ensures that users can engage with the devotional from virtually any device. For more information or to access the Open Heaven for Today 2026, visit

REMINDER!!! JESUS IS COMING SOON

ARE YOU BORN AGAIN? IF NO, WHY NOT ACCEPT JESUS NOW!

Accept Jesus Christ today and secure a life of eternal rest and Glory by saying this short prayer below:






Lord Jesus, I believe you died for my sins, Forgive me of all my iniquities. I accept you as my Lord and Saviour from today and forever.



Come and Be the Lord of my life and I am willing to obey Your command and live according to Your will by Your Grace, Thank you for accepting me into Your fold

AMEN!!! John 6:37…and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

DCLM Daily Manna 1 May 2026 — Secret Of Profitable Labour

DCLM Daily Manna 1 May 2026 Devotional by Pastor W. F. Kumuyi — Secret Of Profitable Labour

TOPIC: Secret Of Profitable Labour (DCLM Daily Manna 1 May 2026)

KEY VERSE: And he hath violently taken away his tabernacle, as if it were of a garden: he hath destroyed his places of the assembly: the LORD hath caused the solemn feasts and sabbaths to be forgotten in Zion, and hath despised in the indignation of his anger the king and the priest – Lamentations 2:6 (KJV)

TEXT: Lamentations 2:6-13 (KJV)

6 And he hath violently taken away his tabernacle, as if it were of a garden: he hath destroyed his places of the assembly: the Lord hath caused the solemn feasts and sabbaths to be forgotten in Zion, and hath despised in the indignation of his anger the king and the priest.

7 The Lord hath cast off his altar, he hath abhorred his sanctuary, he hath given up into the hand of the enemy the walls of her palaces; they have made a noise in the house of the Lord, as in the day of a solemn feast.

8 The Lord hath purposed to destroy the wall of the daughter of Zion: he hath stretched out a line, he hath not withdrawn his hand from destroying: therefore he made the rampart and the wall to lament; they languished together.

9 Her gates are sunk into the ground; he hath destroyed and broken her bars: her king and her princes are among the Gentiles: the law is no more; her prophets also find no vision from the Lord.

10 The elders of the daughter of Zion sit upon the ground, and keep silence: they have cast up dust upon their heads; they have girded themselves with sackcloth: the virgins of Jerusalem hang down their heads to the ground.

11 Mine eyes do fail with tears, my bowels are troubled, my liver is poured upon the earth, for the destruction of the daughter of my people; because the children and the sucklings swoon in the streets of the city.

12 They say to their mothers, Where is corn and wine? when they swooned as the wounded in the streets of the city, when their soul was poured out into their mothers’ bosom.

13 What thing shall I take to witness for thee? what thing shall I liken to thee, O daughter of Jerusalem? what shall I equal to thee, that I may comfort thee, O virgin daughter of Zion? for thy breach is great like the sea: who can heal thee?

DCLM Daily Manna For Today MESSAGE:

When May 1 was first marked as International Labour Day in 1889, the main objective was to honour the dignity of work. Workmen and their engineers and all those involved in productive enterprise were to be celebrated for their priceless contribution to efforts at improving the lot of humanity. But alas, whenever wars and natural disasters occurred, they destroyed the monumental projects of labour, to the horror of their creators.

Jerusalem, the ancient capital of Israel, suffered such devastation in 586 BC, when invading hordes of the Babylonian Army turned its architectural beauty into ashes and pillaged its sacred and iconic temple that took many years and mammoth labour to erect. It was a dark moment in the history of the Jewish nation. Prophet Jeremiah said the gates of the city were sunk into the ground, suggesting complete collapse. The people, their prophets and elders, he said, were all subdued into silence and weeping.

Although God honours beneficial labour, He warns that unless man involves Him in his work, he would be doing it in vain. The workmen putting up the Tower of Babel tasted that pill because they alienated the Lord. Jerusalem, in spite of its global status as a centre of worship, was also at the receiving end of divine judgment. The ravaging of the city came as a result of the sins of idolatry, pride and rejection of the Lord.

Therefore, as the world celebrates International Labour Day, mankind should remember that for the work of our hands to last and be blessed by God, He must be acknowledged as the ultimate workman, whose perfect expertise cannot be put in the margins. His command on work ethics and the need to shun cheating and fraud, must be observed. Our labour can become more profitable to God, ourselves and humanity when we put God in the equation and discharge our duties and responsibilities, not with eye service or as men pleasers, but in line with best practices and godly principles.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Our labour becomes more profitable when aligned with divine principle.

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
1 Samuel 10-11

Deeper Life Daily Manna For Today 2025 was written by Pastor W. F. Kumuyi; is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church situated at KM 42 on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Nigeria.

REMINDER!!! JESUS IS COMING SOON

ARE YOU BORN AGAIN? IF NO, WHY NOT ACCEPT JESUS NOW!

Accept Jesus Christ today and secure a life of eternal rest and Glory by saying this short prayer below:






Lord Jesus, I believe you died for my sins, Forgive me of all my iniquities. I accept you as my Lord and Saviour from today and forever.



Come and Be the Lord of my life and I am willing to obey Your command and live according to Your will by Your Grace, Thank you for accepting me into Your fold

AMEN!!! John 6:37…and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

Interim Report Confirms Bondi Attack Prevention Unaffected by Counter-Terrorism Laws Amid Rising Antisemitism

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Key Points

  • An interim report from the Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion has been handed to Governor-General Sam Mostyn.
  • Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his government “will do everything necessary to protect the community”.

Jewish organizations have expressed concerns over the interim findings of the Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion, particularly in light of the recent attack in Bondi. They are urging Jewish Australians to voice their experiences with antisemitism to better understand the challenges at hand.

On Thursday morning, Commissioner Virginia Bell released a comprehensive 150-page report. The document concludes that there is no immediate necessity to revise counterterrorism legislation. However, it does indicate that security and intelligence agencies will undergo private hearings to pinpoint any failures or resource deficiencies.

The commission is investigating the details surrounding the antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach, where two gunmen allegedly opened fire at a Hanukkah celebration, resulting in the tragic loss of 15 lives and injuring 40 others.

Michele Goldman, CEO of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, recognized this release as the beginning of a longer process, acknowledging the impatience of those seeking swift resolutions.

“This marks an essential initial step in scrutinizing not only the specific events at Bondi but also the broader context that allowed such an attack to occur,” she stated on Thursday.

“The report clearly focuses on the need for greater coordination between our agencies.”

A man in a suit
Executive Council of Australian Jewry co-CEO Alex Ryvchin says the interim report is an important first step in the wake of Bondi. Source: AAP / JOEL CARRETT/AAPIMAGE

Alex Ryvchin, Executive Council of Australian Jewry co-CEO, reiterated “faith” in the commission to address questions around resourcing as well as intelligence sharing.

“We need to understand why the resourcing decisions were made, whether they were made at the right level of seniority and what can be done in future to ensure when you have a vulnerability like this the challenges are met by the police and people are not left exposed and vulnerable,” he said.

The peak body for Jewish Australians argues that the scale of the attack demonstrates “inevitable failures” which occurred “through a process of radicalisation, through failures of leadership, through missed intel [intelligence]”.

The interim report has made 14 recommendations, which Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government will adopt and enact in full.

Those include applying higher security procedures during all high-risk Jewish festivals in NSW and making the counterterrorism coordinator a full-time role.

Five recommendations by Bell and several other sections have been redacted from the public report and are contained confidentially for national security reasons and to “avoid prejudice to current criminal proceedings”.

Albanese acknowledged that the Jewish community was “craving answers” about what happened on 14 December, assuring the public that “the government will do everything necessary to protect the community”.

“Commissioner Bell has found that our existing legal and regulatory frameworks did not hinder our agencies in preventing or responding to the Bondi attack, and that no urgent changes are required to keep Australians safe.”

Intelligence agencies and police to face closed hearings

Chapter 8 of the report focuses on legislative frameworks, stating “no agency” has urged legislative reforms “to prevent, detect or respond to an attack of a similar nature to the Bondi attack”.

It adds that current laws did not prevent “intelligence or law enforcement agencies from taking action that may have prevented the Bondi attack”.

While no legal framework gaps were identified for immediate action, the commission did not reach a conclusion on whether there were intelligence failures or issues with police resource allocations.

Two women standing in a room together. One is holding a folder with documents. There are Australian and Indigenous flags behind them.
Commissioner Virginia Bell delivered the Interim Report of the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion to Governor-General Sam Mostyn in Canberra. Source: AAP / Lukas Coch

Bell said a conclusion could not be reached based on the agencies’ submissions alone, stating that closed hearings would need to be conducted.

It includes examining whether there was adequate funding for the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) “in the deteriorating security environment”.

The interim report found that funding for ASIO increased by 37 per cent between 2020 and 2025, however, allocations to counterterrorism “significantly declined”.

Opposition Home Affairs spokesperson Jonathon Duniam welcomed the report and urged the government to lift its funding for counterterrorism.

“We had the terror threat level raised to probable. That meant a 50 per cent-plus chance of a terror event occurring in Australia,” Duniam said.

“I would have thought that was a signal to government to lift its resourcing, to reallocate resources into counterterror efforts, including a full time counterterror coordinator, which would have dealt with a lot of the issues this interim report highlights.”

State participation key to firearms reforms

Albanese called on states to “engage constructively” to review firearms regulations and implement a National Buyback Scheme, which would purchase surplus as well as illegal guns.

“There are two of the recommendations [that] make it clear that we should progress with nationally consistent gun reform,” he said.

States faced a 1 April deadline to sign up for the reforms, which would see them pay for half of the buyback scheme.

The NSW backed the reforms quickly; however, Queensland, South Australia and the Northern Territory have all ruled out their support.

Western Australia completed its own buyback scheme in January, Tasmania is setting up its own scheme, while Victoria, which agreed to participate, is awaiting a review to commit fully.

The report also recommends a review of Joint Counter Terrorism teams, urging police commissioners to submit a report on the leadership structures, team integration, and information-sharing arrangements within three months.

The first block of public hearings is expected to start on Monday and will focus on experiences of antisemitism, with the commission receiving more than 3,500 submissions already.

Both bodies have encouraged Jewish Australians to share their concerning experiences of antisemitism, suggesting an anonymous submission if they fear being identified.

“It’s become normalised to hear all these, to hear all these examples of people whose lives are no longer ordinary,” Goldman said.

“Who have to think about what they wear for fear of being identified as being Jewish, who have increased levels of anxiety in terms of what their colleagues might say to them, this is not the way of Australia.”

The full report will be handed down no later than the first anniversary of the attack on 14 December 2026.


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Rhapsody Of Realities 1 May 2026: The Character Of Truth

Rhapsody Of Realities 1 May 2026 By Pastor Chris Oyakhilome (Christ Embassy): The Character Of Truth

TOPIC: The Character Of Truth (Rhapsody of Realities 1 May 2026)

Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another (Ephesians 4:25).

Rhapsody Of Realities For Today’s MESSAGE:

You might have observed that people who don’t tell the truth are often the ones most desperate to be believed. They get offended when others don’t believe them, yet they know they aren’t telling the truth. Liars always want to be believed because they depend on deception to achieve their goal.

But when you tell the truth, it doesn’t matter who believes you or not. That’s because the truth stands on its own. If the other person refuses to believe, they’re the one at a loss because they’re likely to make wrong decisions based on falsehood. But you’ve done your part by telling them the truth.

Truth is a gift. When you speak it, you share something of value with another person. If they receive it, it blesses them; if they reject it, they lose. The truth doesn’t change, and it doesn’t need defending. It has power in itself. That’s why those who walk in truth are at peace. They don’t strive to be believed; they simply live by the truth.

But those who lie, struggle, cry, plead, and insist on being trusted, because their confidence depends on others believing their falsehood. So, always choose truth. Live in truth. Speak and walk in truth. It liberates and strengthens your spirit while deception corrupts and enslaves. As the Scripture says, ” …ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32). Praise God!

PRAYER

Dear Father, thank you for making me a child of truth. I walk in sincerity, integrity and uprightness of heart. Your truth fills my spirit and governs my words and actions. I refuse to yield to deception or hypocrisy. I speak the truth in love and live by the light of your Word every day, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY

Proverbs 12:19; The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

3 John 1:4; I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.

Zechariah 8:16 – These are the things that ye shall do; Speak ye every man the truth to his neighbour; execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates:

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Luke 24:13-35; 2 Samuel 9-11

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Corinthians 2:1-11; Psalm 143-144

DIVINE HEALTH CONFESSIONS – 1ST MAY 2026

Dear Father, I have the faith to relate with and enjoy all that You have made available for me in Christ. Daily, I revel in health and prosperity, because the Lord Jesus has made my life beautiful. I will never live in sickness, defeat, or failure. I have dominion over everything in Christ Jesus.

Keep saying it, don’t stop talking it! Remember, you can make your way prosperous with words. Get talking today!

Remember to share with all your friends and loved ones today. Thank you and God bless you richly.

Rhapsody of Realities 2026 Devotional was written by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome (D.Sc., D.D.). President of Loveworld Inc. aka Christ Embassy Int’l.

REMINDER!!! JESUS IS COMING SOON

ARE YOU BORN AGAIN? IF NO, WHY NOT ACCEPT JESUS NOW!

Accept Jesus Christ today and secure a life of eternal rest and Glory by saying this short prayer below:






Lord Jesus, I believe you died for my sins, Forgive me of all my iniquities. I accept you as my Lord and Saviour from today and forever.



Come and Be the Lord of my life and I am willing to obey Your command and live according to Your will by Your Grace, Thank you for accepting me into Your fold

AMEN!!! John 6:37…and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

Charles Concludes Successful Four-Day State Visit with Arrival in Bermuda

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King Charles landed in Bermuda on Friday following a brisk four-day official tour of the United States.

The monarch arrived at L.F. Wade International Airport aboard the UK government’s VIP Airbus A321neo, with the Royal Standard and Bermuda flag prominently displayed from the cockpit.

Upon disembarking, Charles was welcomed by Bermuda’s Governor, Andrew Murdoch, and the two shared a few jovial comments.

At one moment, the King pointed to his watch, likely referencing his busy itinerary that included stops in Washington DC and Virginia before crossing the Atlantic to reach the Caribbean island.

Charles proceeded to greet Premier David Burt, his wife Kristin, and several other dignitaries and their partners who had assembled to receive him.

A royal salute was performed by the Royal Bermuda Regiment (RBR), who formed a guard of honour along a red carpet. 

Dressed in white tunics, navy trousers with red stripes, and navy and red hats, the soldiers stood in immaculate formation.

The regiment, which counts the Duchess of Gloucester as its Colonel-in-Chief, marked its 60th anniversary last October.

King Charles arrived in Bermuda on Friday, just hours after wrapping up a whirlwind four-day state visit to the United States

King Charles arrived in Bermuda on Friday, just hours after wrapping up a whirlwind four-day state visit to the United States

King Charles III makes his way down the stairs from his plane at L.F. Wade International Airport in St George's as he arrives for a state visit in Bermuda

King Charles III makes his way down the stairs from his plane at L.F. Wade International Airport in St George’s as he arrives for a state visit in Bermuda

It comes after a whirlwind visit to the United States in recent days with the monarch received several standing ovations for his 'checks and balances' speech in Congress

It comes after a whirlwind visit to the United States in recent days with the monarch received several standing ovations for his ‘checks and balances’ speech in Congress

The monarch touched down at L.F. Wade International Airport aboard the UK government’s VIP Airbus A321neo

King Charles is greeted by Bermuda's Premier David Burt upon his arrival to the L.F. Wade International Airport in Hamilton

King Charles is greeted by Bermuda’s Premier David Burt upon his arrival to the L.F. Wade International Airport in Hamilton

The King smiled as he greeted officials on his visit including Bermuda's Governor, Andrew Murdoch, Premier David Burt, his wife Kristin, as well as a number of other dignitaries

The King smiled as he greeted officials on his visit including Bermuda’s Governor, Andrew Murdoch, Premier David Burt, his wife Kristin, as well as a number of other dignitaries 

Charles made the trip to Bermuda alone after the Queen returned to the UK following her final engagement in Virginia on Thursday afternoon

Charles made the trip to Bermuda alone after the Queen returned to the UK following her final engagement in Virginia on Thursday afternoon

Members of the Royal Bermuda Regiment were on display as the King arrived at the airport

Members of the Royal Bermuda Regiment were on display as the King arrived at the airport

Both the Royal Standard and the Bermuda flag could be spotted fluttering proudly from the cockpit window

Both the Royal Standard and the Bermuda flag could be spotted fluttering proudly from the cockpit window

The arrival itself was a relatively low-key affair, as a full ceremonial welcome, including a guard of honour mounted by the RBR and a 21-gun salute, is set to take place at King’s Square on Saturday morning.

The King departed in a BMW, part of a noticeably more modest convoy than the one that accompanied him during his US visit. The motorcade consisted of 10 cars, eight police motorbikes and just a single police car.

Charles made the trip to Bermuda alone after the Queen returned to the UK following her final engagement in Virginia on Thursday afternoon.

The visit is expected to include a series of highlights, including engagements with young people and conservation leaders, a celebration of Bermuda’s heritage and arts, and the opening of the new Great Bay Coast Guard Station.

It came after an incredibly successful four-day state visit to the US where President Trump hailed Charles as ‘the greatest King’.

Royal aides were said to be grinning like Cheshire Cats at the perceived ‘triumph’ of the visit.

Especially after little more than an hour after Their Majesties left the White House, The President posted a remarkable message on his Truth Social media site, revealing he was removing whisky tariffs in their ‘honour’.

He said that while ‘people have wanted to do this for a long time’ the King and Queen ‘got me to do something that nobody else was able to do’.

The Scottish and UK governments had been lobbying the Republicans to end tariffs on the industry, as the US is the single biggest market for Scotland’s whisky.

One royal insider told the Daily Mail: ‘Both the President and First Lady couldn’t have been more lovely and hospitable. Really they were. It’s been a wonderful visit.’ 

King Charles paid a touching tribute on Thursday in his final engagement – a visit to Arlington Cemetery in Virginia, one of the United States’ most significant sites of military remembrance. 

The monarch, 77, and Queen Camilla were greeted with a 21-gun salute as the royal couple arrived, followed by performances of God Save the King and Star-Spangled Banner. 

President Donald J Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are joined by King Charles III and Queen Camilla in the Oval Office

President Donald J Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are joined by King Charles III and Queen Camilla in the Oval Office

President Trump pointing out a picture on the wall to King Charles and Queen Camilla in the White House

President Trump pointing out a picture on the wall to King Charles and Queen Camilla in the White House 

President Trump hosts King Charles for tea in the Green Room

President Trump hosts King Charles for tea in the Green Room

President Trump pointed at King Charles and called him 'the greatest King' as they posed for pictures outside the White House

President Trump pointed at King Charles and called him ‘the greatest King’ as they posed for pictures outside the White House 

They also laid a wreath and a posy at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to commemorate the nation’s war dead and honour the UK-US military partnership. 

Since 1921, it has provided a final resting place for an unidentified American service member from the First World War, with ‘Unknowns’ from later conflicts interred in 1958 and 1984. 

Thirty-two British servicemen are also buried at the cemetery. 

While diplomats are under no illusion of the fluid nature of the US leader’s affections – British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is most definitely on the ‘naughty step’ – it is clear that the King has lived up to hopes he will prove to be a ‘Trump whisperer’.

The warmth between the two men has been visible, with President Trump praising Charles as a great ambassador for his country.

Soldiers from nearby Fort Myer were first assigned to guard the Tomb during daylight hours in 1926, and, since 1937, the Tomb has been guarded 24 hours a day.

Inside Arlington’s Display Room, the King and Queen were given a short tour of the exhibition by the Executive Director Karen Durham-Aguilera, and senior historian Dr Allison Finkelstein.

Before leaving, they also viewed the Canadian Cross of Sacrifice, dedicated to those US citizens who volunteered for the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) and lost their lives in the First World War.

More than 40,000 residents of the United States enlisted in the CEF prior to US entry into the war in April 1917.

At the Cross, Their Majesties met two groups of serving military personnel from the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, before departing with another 21-gun salute.

Queen Camilla lays a bouquet of flowers at Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia

Queen Camilla lays a bouquet of flowers at Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia

Charles and Camilla are accompanied by Major General Antoinette Gant and Chief of Protocol Monica Crowley to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Charles and Camilla are accompanied by Major General Antoinette Gant and Chief of Protocol Monica Crowley to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

King Charles lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery

King Charles lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery

Charles and Camilla (right) attend a parade and block party event on the final day of their state visit

Charles and Camilla (right) attend a parade and block party event on the final day of their state visit

King Charles III, accompanied by Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger (R) speaks with employees of Melting Pot Pizza during a parade and block party on the final day of the state visit

King Charles III, accompanied by Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger (R) speaks with employees of Melting Pot Pizza during a parade and block party on the final day of the state visit

Charles and Camilla speak with local cheerleaders at the event

Charles and Camilla speak with local cheerleaders at the event 

Charles and Camilla greet local people from the town

Charles and Camilla greet local people from the town 

On Thursday afternoon they visited a noisy and quintessentially American ‘Block Party’ in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. 

The couple were visiting the classic American ‘smalltown’ of Front Royal, 76 miles from Washington.

While there are several theories about the origins of the town’s name, the most widely accepted is that it was named after a giant oak tree – the ‘royal’ tree of England – that stood in the public square during colonial times.

The local militia were drilled there, with soldiers often given the command ‘front the Royal Oak!’ And this got shortened over the years to ‘Front Royal’.

It’s certainly better than its previous nickname of ‘Helltown’ in the late 18th century, due to the rowdy nature of the boatmen, livestock wranglers and traders who passed through, drinking and brawling.

Fortunately it’s now a picturesque town of 15,000 inhabitants on the banks of the Shenandoah River, with a quintessential American Main Street bedecked in flags.

The streets were heaving with thousands of well-wishers, some who had been queuing for eight hours to catch a glimpse of the royal visitors.

Unlike royal engagements back at home, however, these ones went through metal and gun detectors.

A huge cheer went up from the crowds as the royal party arrived, the Queen wearing the same outfit but having done a ‘switcheroo’ with her brooch for a Cartier number showing the UK and US flags.

The event couldn’t have been more American: including a parade down Main Street and its bedecked bandstand, featuring cheerleaders, school marching bands, fire trucks, the ‘Little League’ state champion baseball team – and even some British and US classic cars.

Some spoke to local television station ABC13.

‘We came out early just to be part of the event, just to be part of the experience here. We never dreamed of the King, Queen, or even come, you know, even Virginia, just much less Front Royal. So we just had to be a part of it,’ said Mark Anderson.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla attend a parade on the final day of their state visit

King Charles III and Queen Camilla attend a parade on the final day of their state visit

King Charles III greets Junior Rangers from Warren County High School

King Charles III greets Junior Rangers from Warren County High School

People wait for Britain's King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a parade in Front Royal

People wait for Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a parade in Front Royal

King Charles III speaks with members of the Monacan Indian Nation during a visit at Dickey Ridge Visitor Center at Shenandoah National Park

King Charles III speaks with members of the Monacan Indian Nation during a visit at Dickey Ridge Visitor Center at Shenandoah National Park

King Charles III speaks with National Park Service Rangers at the Shenandoah National Park

King Charles III speaks with National Park Service Rangers at the Shenandoah National Park

Queen Camilla is presented flowers by Violet Marek as she arrives at Smitten Farm on the final day of the state visit

Queen Camilla is presented flowers by Violet Marek as she arrives at Smitten Farm on the final day of the state visit

Charles and Camilla and Mayor of Front Royal, Lori Athey Cockrell watch and wave during a parade and community block party

Charles and Camilla and Mayor of Front Royal, Lori Athey Cockrell watch and wave during a parade and community block party

Kaden Anderson said: ‘I mean, I’m excited. It’s just like, because, like, this is a small place, like, you know, there’s not much, like, big things happening here. So our King and Queen of England come here, out of all places, it’s very nice, and I’m very excited to see it.’

Residents say they hope the visit will help with visitor numbers to the region, seen as a gateway to the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains.

‘I’m proud that they chose this place to come and visit. You know, we’re kind of like tucked away, and to have something of such prestige come and visit. And a lot of us have, you know, after the ancestry thing that we’ve all done, might have a little touch of British in us,’ said Brenda Taylor. 

The royal couple were also enchanted by a pair of newborn lambs named Charles and Camilla in their honour. The monarch held onto ‘Charles’s’ leg.

The Queen later met the lamb too, stroking his head and rubbing his neck, declaring him to be ‘very aptly named’ and telling him: ‘You’re very sweet’.

The rare Kerry Hill breed animals are being raised by Tracey Bloom, from Upperville, a 30-minute drive from Front Royal.

There are only 25 Kerry Hill Sheep in the United States and she is hoping to grow the flock, working with breeders in Powys, mid Wales.

The King is patron of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust and told Tracy: ‘You’re very kind to bring them here.’