Month: April 2026

In this week’s presidential debate, Mitt Romney fleshed out an idea he had previously mentioned briefly as a way to pay for his proposed tax cuts – setting a cap on itemized deductions.

“I’m going to bring rates down across the board for everybody, but I’m going to limit deductions and exemptions and credits, particularly for people at the high end,” the Republican presidential nominee said.

“One way of doing that would be to say everybody gets – I’ll pick a number – $25,000 of deductions and credits. And you can decide which ones to use, your home mortgage interest deduction, charity, child tax credit and so forth. You can use those as part of filling that bucket, if you will, of deductions.”

The cap, Romney said Tuesday night, would ensure that the wealthy would not receive an outsized tax break. “I am not going to have people at the high end pay less than they’re paying now” as an overall share of U.S. taxes, he said.

Moreover, he insisted, the cap would allow him to pay for his proposed tax cuts without increasing the size of the deficit.

“Of course they add up,” he responded when Candy Crowley, the debate moderator, asked him about whether his numbers penciled out.

Politically, a cap on deductions provides an attractive solution to raising tax revenue because it avoids having to wage fights over individual deductions.

Unfortunately for Romney, however, the cap does not come close to covering the full cost of the tax plan he has proposed, according to a new analysis by the Tax Policy Center, a specialized Washington think tank. The Romney tax plan would reduce federal revenue by about $5 trillion over 10 years in addition to the cost of the Bush-era tax cuts that he would extend.

“These new estimates suggest that Romney will need to do much more than capping itemized deductions to pay for the roughly $5 trillion in rate cuts and other tax benefits he has proposed,” wrote Roberton Williams, an analyst at the nonpartisan center, which is a joint operation of the Urban Institute and the Brookings Institution.

The Tax Policy Center analysis suggested that Romney’s proposed cap would raise revenue in a “highly progressive” way because upper-income households benefit more from itemized deductions. The center found that the cap would provide considerable revenue to offset the cost of the tax cut, but would still leave a huge gap.

The center’s staff consists of former government tax experts from both Republican and Democratic administrations. Romney and his aides cited the center as an authoritative source during Republican primary debates but since then have objected to the center’s analyses of shortcomings in their tax plan.

According to the center’s analysis, a $25,000 cap would raise about $1.3 trillion over a 10-year period. That would cover roughly a quarter of the 10-year cost of Romney’s tax plan.

If Romney made the cap tighter – allowing just $17,000 in deductions and credits – he could raise $1.7 trillion. A $50,000 cap would bring in about $760 billion. At various times, Romney has cited each of those figures as a proposed cap.

The tighter cap would hit many more taxpayers. If the cap were $50,000, for example, almost all the revenue that it would raise, about 80%, would come from taxpayers with income above $500,000 a year, and less than 4% would come from taxpayers earning less than $100,000, according to the center’s analysis. That’s because very few taxpayers other than the very wealthy have deductions that total more than $50,000.

By contrast, a cap of $17,000 would get about 40% of its revenue from that top group, and about 17% from the taxpayers earning $100,000 or less.

Romney has said that he expects part of his tax cut would be paid for by additional revenue flowing into the treasury as the result of faster economic growth. Economists disagree about whether a tax cut such as the one Romney has proposed – a reduction of current tax rates by one-fifth – would significantly increase economic growth.

In response to the center’s report, the Romney campaign issued a statement that did not dispute the math, but reiterated Romney’s position that “the President and Congress working together can make the tax code simpler, more efficient, and more pro-growth.”

[For the Record, 9:51 a.m. PST Oct. 18: This post has been updated to include the Romney campaign’s response to the Tax Policy Center’s report.]

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You ask. We answer. Or at least we’re going to try.

The Times asked readers for their burning questions regarding the Olympics, and it’s the ticketing process that’s bringing the most heat. Locals in Southern California and Oklahoma City endured the presale headaches and sticker shock before the global audience got their shot at securing tickets this week. But with more than two years remaining until the Games open, expect that there will be more questions.

Here is what Times readers wanted to know:

Why are tickets so expensive?

A price tag of $5,000 to watch the opening ceremony or $2,500 for women’s artistic gymnastics finals shocked hopeful fans on the first day of ticket sales. But it’s not 1984 anymore.

Ticket sales and hospitality are expected to cover about $2.5 billion of the total $7.1 budget. LA28 will have 14 million tickets available across the Olympics and Paralympics, so taken in total, the average ticket for the Games would have to be roughly $179 to reach the budget estimate. Paralympic tickets, which will go on sale in 2027, are expected to be less expensive than Olympic tickets. LA28 said the average Olympic ticket — inclusive of the 24% fee — is less than $200. The math is mathing.

LA28 did not release a complete price list before tickets went on sale, likely fueling some of the sticker shock after fans just heard about the promise of $28 tickets. And a 24% fee raised additional eyebrows.

The fees “align with standard industry practices for ticketing live events in the U.S.,” LA28 said in a statement and cover the costs of secure processing and delivering tickets.

Are there still $28 tickets available?

Yes. LA28 chief executive officer Reynold Hoover said at a recent press event that there are $28 tickets that have not yet been released.

But expect the tickets to go quickly whenever they are available.

There are roughly 1 million $28 tickets total. Divide those tickets to ensure they can be distributed over a number of drops and then divide each drop’s $28 tickets across multiple sports. It’s quickly resembling a small number of needles in a big haystack.

The 1 million $28 tickets are spread across every sport, but not every session. So don’t expect $28 tickets for finals or knock out rounds to the most in-demand sports including women’s artistic gymnastics, basketball, swimming or track and field to be sold at all. Cross your fingers, look for qualifying rounds, especially sports that have a lot of early pool matches such as 3×3 basketball or field hockey, and be open to exploring a new sport you’ve never heard of. Handball is actually a lot of fun to watch.

How many tickets are available in each drop?

This is a question everyone wants to know. And trust me, we’ve asked. LA28 declined in multiple settings to release specific numbers. The lack of information likely contributed to much of the confusion about what to expect when fans logged into the portal for the first time, and it makes it difficult to project what the ticket distribution will look like in future drops.

I had a time slot but didn’t buy my full allotment of tickets. What now?

If you didn’t buy the maximum 12 tickets allowed, you’ll automatically be entered for the next ticket draw later this year. LA28 has not released any additional details about when exactly that next opportunity will be, but it will have the same steps as the first one: a period of open, free registration, a random lottery and assigned time slots during which fans can log in and purchase tickets.

Fans will be automatically rolled over into future lotteries until they’ve reached the maximum 12 general tickets. So you don’t have to do anything extra if you’ve already registered for the first drop. But if you’ve bought your 12 general tickets and not the additional 12 soccer tickets, you won’t be entered into the next draw.

I didn’t register for the presale/first drop. Can I still get a chance to buy tickets?

Don’t panic. You can register next time. The next drop, which will come later this year, will have the same registration period, lottery, time slot pattern, but there will not a presale period. Each lottery is random, so whether you are a first-drop rollover, a new registrant on the first day or someone who signs up on the last day, you all have the same chance to get a time slot.

There will be multiple time slot-based ticket drops before tickets move to a complete first-come, first-served sale.

How can groups get access to the tickets available through the donation program?

Last November, LA28 launched a donation program to help fund tickets for local organizations. The Rams were the first contributors to the program, pledging $5 million to the campaign. But LA28 has not released additional information yet about how the tickets will be handled or distributed in the future.

Will I be able to transfer tickets to friends/family?

Yes. Digital tickets for recent Olympics have been distributed through an app and when they hit your account, you can send them to friends and family using their email addresses/Olympic account information. Just be prepared to download yet another app on your phone.

Why are some events in Oklahoma?

The softball tournament will be in Oklahoma City’s Devon Park, which hosts the Women’s College World Series every year, and canoe slalom will take place at Riversport OKC, the official U.S. Olympic and Paralympic training center for rowing and canoe/kayak.

These Games were intended to use existing infrastructure instead of building new venues, which greatly cuts down on costs. Hosting the canoe slalom events near L.A. would have required an expensive temporary build. It’s true that Southern California has many great college softball teams with existing facilities, but it would be difficult to prepare to a scale suitable for Olympic athletes, stakeholders, media and fans. I’ve covered many softball games at UCLA. The fan capacity is less than 1,500 and there’s room for about seven people in the press box. Eight if you scrunch. You can’t build temporary stands there; the outfield touches Sunset Boulevard.

In Tokyo, the last time baseball and softball were at the Olympics, the sports shared a venue. But LA28 organizers heard feedback from softball athletes saying that converting a baseball stadium into a softball venue compromised some of the Games experience. Moving the softball and canoe slalom events outside of Southern California is a trade off though. Those athletes will not be able to have some of the same Olympic experiences as others, but organizers were mindful to make the competition schedule to ensure that athletes could still attend either the opening or closing ceremonies despite competing far away.

Every Olympics wrestles with finding the perfect venue, and for the L.A. Games, which have more sports and more athletes than any Olympics in history, that calculus is harder than most. There are no perfect solutions.

The Times will continue answering reader questions leading up to the Olympics. Use the form below to submit your questions and check back later for more responses.

MOST Brits will stick to Western Europe for a summer holiday heading to the likes of France or Spain.

But in doing so are missing out on beautiful and not to mention cheaper alternatives in the east, like Lithuania.

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Lithuania hasn’t typically been a holiday location for Brits, but it’s seeing a rise in tourists.

Last year, Lithuania was Europe‘s fastest-growing destination with international arrivals up 21 per cent – and it’s emerging as a compelling alternative for 2026.

Having visited Lithuania’s capital, Vilnius, late last year, I can vouch that it makes for a great city break.

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And it will be even more pleasant in spring and summer when temperatures can reach highs of 30C.

While it was a little colder (and even snowed) when I visited in December 2025, I still got a feel for the city where I found bargain drinks and cute markets.

In the heart of the capital city is its beautiful Old Town which has cobbled streets, hidden courtyards and plenty of bars.

If you look up, beautiful churches dominate the skyline – the Old Town has around 40 alone.

Meanwhile, the streets are winding and with shops, cafes and restaurants. I discovered one bar called Vynomanai, which was selling coffee for €2 (£1.74) and beer for €3 (£2.62).

One snack you have to try as it’s a local delicacy called ‘kepta duona’ – and once you have a taste, you won’t be able to stop.

Essentially it’s fried bread in garlic – which is like the UK’s version of pork scratchings. But, if you want something slightly fancier, Vilnius has four Michelin-star restaurants with tasting menus.

In huge contrast is the modern city of Vilnius which is filled with green parks, museums, art galleries and shopping centres.

For something more quirky, head to Lukiskiu Kalejimas prison to take a tour around the cells – unbelievably it was used up until 2019.

After its closure, the site was used for filming prison scenes in Season 4 of Stranger Things.

Now it’s used as a cultural centre and is open to the public for tours.

I’d say, to get a feel of the city, head out into the Old Town early on Sunday morning, you can hear the church bells chime and the streets were practically deserted when I went for a wander.

If you’re booking your next getaway – here are some of our favourite family holidays…

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Selenium Hotel, Antalya, Turkey

This hotel is a top pick for families who want to do a bit of everything. If you love the water, the nearby beach is packed with fun activities like banana boats, jet-skiing, and diving, while the hotel’s pool is perfect for a more relaxing dip. For a change of pace, the hotel can help you organise horse riding or bike rides along the pretty coastal paths, and there’s even a golf course just 20 minutes away for the grown-ups.

BOOK A HOLIDAY

Blue Sea Interpalace, Tenerife

With a massive outdoor pool, mini-golf, and a dedicated kids club, there’s plenty here to keep kids of all ages entertained. Each of the 234 rooms comes with the essentials like air-con and a minibar, and the all-inclusive buffet means everyone stays fueled for a day on the beach or battling on the sports courts. When you’re ready to explore, Puerto de la Cruz is right on your doorstep, where you can wander past an 18th-century fort, explore the pretty harbour, or play on the island’s famous volcanic black-sand beaches.

BOOK A HOLIDAY

Rodos Star, Rhodes, Greece

Rodos Star is perched on a hilltop with stunning views over the Aegean Sea. It’s a great choice for a relaxed Greek getaway, featuring a main pool for the grown-ups and a dedicated splash pool for the kids. With evening entertainment like Greek dancing and live music three times a week, there’s plenty of fun for everyone. You’re just a five-minute stroll from Afandou, a traditional village packed with shops and authentic tavernas. Plus the generous all-inclusive package will keep everybody fed and happy.

BOOK A HOLIDAY

Archipel Monastir, Tunisia

This glamorous Tunisian retreat sits directly on a golden beach, putting the Mediterranean Sea right at your doorstep. Families will love the spacious rooms that sleep up to four, along with a fun-filled sports schedule featuring tennis, volleyball, and archery. While the kids are busy, you can slip away to the hotel’s luxurious spa and traditional hammam for some serious relaxation. When you’re ready to explore, the city of Monastir is packed with local history including ancient fortresses.

BOOK A HOLIDAY

For those who like to relax, Lithuania is a great place to do so as it has a high density of spas.

Last year, Lithuania was even crowned the best spot in the world for health and wellness by ITB Health Tourism.

In dedicated wellness towns like Druskininkai, you’ll find lots more, here is home to Dineika Wellness Park.

The small resort has an open-air gym, public sauna by the river, lots of parklands to explore.

Entry to the park is actually free and treatments start from as little €12 (£10.43).

Guests can take mud baths, bubble baths and opt for massages which start from €20 (£17.39).

Lithuania has a relatively short coastline which stretches around 57 miles, but it does have some beaches.

Popular spots with white sands include Neringa, Palanga, and Smiltynė.

Or with the coastline being short, lots opt to swim in its freshwater lakes instead, like Green Lakes and Balžis.

Flights to Vilnius are cheap too, in April you can get one-way flights from London Luton from as little as £16 with Ryanair and be there in under three hours.

For more on holidays, one of Europe’s cheapest city break destinations with £2 beers and massive waterpark has new UK flights.

And this spot in ‘Eastern European Riviera’ with white sand beaches that you can fly to for £13 from the UK.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued an update for a sun-soaked holiday hotspot and warned that there have ‘been fatal accidents’ in the area

The Foreign Office has issued a travel warning for a hugely popular holiday destination that welcomes thousands of Brits every year.

On Wednesday, 15 April, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) updated its travel advice for the Maldives. They warned about swimming safety in the Indian Ocean, with the Maldives renowned as a hotspot for snorkelling, swimming and watersports due to its crystal-clear turquoise waters.

While the waters around the Maldives are appealing, the FCDO warned that they “can have strong tidal currents that can drag you away from the shoreline.” They noted that more than eight Brits have drowned in the area since 2021, and urged everyone to be aware of the risks and understand how to minimise them.

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In an updated warning, they said: “You should read the security information provided by your tour operator and make yourself aware of local swimming conditions on arrival at the resort. Keep in regular contact with resort staff to see if these conditions change.

“Only swim in well supervised areas, areas designated as safe for tourists, or where lifeguards are available. Pay attention to warning signs or flags and avoid swimming in areas with strong currents, high waves or dangerous underwater conditions. If something does not feel right, get out of the water at the earliest opportunity.”

They further highlighted: “Being aware of the potential dangers will help you to stay safe. Always take local advice before going into the sea.

“There have been fatal accidents involving boat propellers in the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) and nearby whale shark tourism sites. Regulations requiring propeller guards are not yet fully enforced. Take extra care when swimming or snorkelling near boats and follow local safety instructions.

“See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.”

The FCDO doesn’t advise against travel to the Maldives, but it has warned that “escalation in the Middle East has caused widespread travel disruption”. This has resulted in airspace closures, delayed and cancelled flights, which could impact “connections to and from the Maldives.”

For anyone planning a trip to the Maldives, the Foreign Office advises the following before travelling:

• “Check travel advice for any countries or territories you are transiting through
• Check for the latest updates from your airline or tour operator before travelling
• Review your travel insurance policy to confirm what is covered
• Monitor local and international media and sign up for FCDO travel advice email alerts”

In further travel advice for safety in the Maldives, the FCDO highlight that terrorist attacks “cannot be ruled out”. They state: “Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.”

For more information on travel advice to the Maldives, visit the Foreign Office website.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

April 15 (UPI) — Leftist candidate Roberto Sánchez has moved into second place in Peru’s presidential vote count, positioning himself for the runoff election as officials continue to tally ballots from the general election.

With about 90% of ballots counted, official results from Peru’s National Office of Electoral Processes show Keiko Fujimori leading with 16.9% of the vote, securing her place in the runoff. The race for second place remains extremely close.

After three days of slow vote counting, Sánchez climbed to second place with 12,05% of the vote, edging far-right candidate Rafael López Aliaga, who has 11.94%.

Ballots in Peru are processed in the order they arrive, favoring candidates with stronger support in major cities during the early stages of the count. That has kept the country in suspense, as the remaining rural vote could solidify Sánchez’s lead, La República reported.

Sánchez, a congressman and head of the leftist Juntos por el Perú party, ran as the political heir to former President Pedro Castillo, under whom he served as trade minister. During the campaign, he adopted Castillo’s signature wide-brimmed hat in public appearances.

His platform calls for sweeping state reforms through a constituent assembly, Peru’s entry into the BRICS bloc and greater state control over strategic resources without expropriation, seeking support in the Andean south and rural regions.

If Sánchez advances to the June 7 runoff, the result would echo Peru’s 2021 presidential election, when Castillo, then a little-known union leader, unexpectedly reached the second round against Keiko Fujimori with 18.9% of the vote.

As Sánchez gained ground, López Aliaga called the election a “systematic fraud” and demanded the vote be annulled, alleging manipulation in the electoral authority’s data transmission system and logistical chaos, El Comercio reported.

Election observation missions Tuesday backed the integrity of the process, describing the vote as credible and transparent despite logistical problems that caused delays and forced some polling stations to remain open longer, according to France 24.

Peru’s comptroller general also warned of serious problems in the distribution of tally sheets and election materials during the 2026 vote, which reportedly delayed polling station openings in parts of the country, Latina TV reported.

Election authorities said the prolonged count is largely due to the technical complexity of processing ballots that combined five simultaneous elections: president, national senators, regional senators, lower house lawmakers and Andean Parliament representatives.

Voters were asked to choose among 35 presidential candidates and nearly 10,000 candidates for Congress and the Andean Parliament.

Facing criticism and legal complaints over the delay, the electoral office director, Piero Corvetto, defended the process and urged calm as officials continue counting ballots from Peru’s most remote rural areas.

The Cold War-era Lockheed AH-56 Cheyenne might have been plagued with issues, but there’s no doubt it was among the world’s most advanced helicopters of its day. The AH-56 was so fast, and its features so ahead of their time, that the U.S. Army has decided to port over its name for its highly anticipated MV-75 tiltrotor, now officially named the Cheyenne II. The name also continues the Army’s tradition of naming its helicopters after great Native American tribes, and will find its place among icons like the Apache, Chinook, and Lakota.

In 2022, the Army picked a design from Bell, based on that company’s V-280 Valor tiltrotor, as the winner of its Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) competition. In January of this year, the Army confirmed to TWZ that it planned to accelerate its timeline for the MV-75 by multiple years, fielding the first examples in 2027 versus 2031.

The rollout took place today at the Army Aviation Association of America’s Army Aviation Warfighting Summit in Nashville, Tennessee. Speaking to journalists, including TWZ, before that event, Maj. Gen. Clair A. Gill, the commanding general of the Army Aviation Center and Portfolio Acquisition Executive — Expanded Maneuver Air, announced the MV-75’s rollout as “a pivotal moment for Army Aviation, for our soldiers.”

In keeping with other Army rotorcraft, the MV-75’s name also honors a Native American tribe (more accurately, two tribes), the Cheyenne.

As Maj. Gen. Gill explained: This name reflects more than heritage. It reflects identity. The Cheyenne people inhabited the Great Plains for 400 years, adapting to a harsh and unforgiving environment as highly proficient hunters and gatherers. Their way of life required constant mobility, organized around nomadic buffalo hunting, enabling them to assemble, disassemble, and move quickly to meet the demands of their environment. In many aspects, that same ability to rapidly organize, reposition, and operate with precision is reflected in the MV-75 platform.”

“Life in that environment demanded resilience and strength,” Gill continued. “Tribes navigated rivalries, dirt, conflict, and adapted as Westward expansion reshaped the landscape around them. Today, the Cheyenne are represented by the Northern Cheyenne tribe in Montana, in the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes in Oklahoma, whose legacy reflects the proud and enduring warrior tradition, ground and protection, provision and leadership. Those values demand capability, and in today’s fight, that capability comes in the form of speed, range, lethality, and adaptability. That spirit of mobility, resilience, and disciplined strength is what the name Cheyenne II represents.”

As for the other, historical Cheyenne, the AH-56, this was a first-generation attack helicopter drafted during the Vietnam War. Most impressively for the time, the helicopter could hit a 224-mile-per-hour cruise speed and dash at speeds up to 240 miles per hour, driven by a nearly 4,000-horsepower turbine engine and a pusher propeller on the tail boom.

F 03873 US Army Lockheed AH-56 Cheyenne multi weapon attack Helicopter

While it boasted incredible performance and was packed full of advanced features, the AH-56 was destined for failure. A combination of technical issues, program management shortfalls, changing procurement priorities, high cost, and a fatal crash in 1969 saw the program terminated. But despite never entering service, the Cheyenne left a profound impact on the concept of close air support and attack helicopter design and today holds a special place in military aviation history.

On the other hand, there are plenty of obvious differences between the AH-56 and the MV-75, not least their missions. They also had different prime contractors, and, the Army must hope, will have very different outcomes.

Maj. Gen. Gill continued: “What the [AH-56] Cheyenne was when it was initially conceived in the 1960s was a transformational leap ahead in technology. It was a rotorcraft when we were still learning how helicopters flew and how we could get the maximum utility, speed, and range out of them. And the Cheyenne, at the time that it was developed, was completely different. It had a pusher prop on it that allowed it to achieve speeds that we hadn’t seen before. You could draw a lot of parallels between going from the current fleet of rotorcraft that we fly, that is really 1960s, 1970s-era technology … to what we’re doing with the tiltrotor technology. Twice as far, twice as fast, vertical takeoff and landing, but flying at airplane speeds. You can certainly draw the metaphor there if you want, between the AH-56 back in the late 1960s and the MV-75 today.”

Continuing on the transformational theme, Brent G. Ingraham, the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology, provided his assessment of the MV-75, describing it as “a generational capability for the Army,” and one that “truly fundamentally changes how commanders think about distance, time, and maneuver on the battlefield.”

Ingraham continued: “It combines the vertical lift of a helicopter with the speed and range of an airplane, allowing us to project combat power from safer distances, penetrate deeper into contested environments, and deliver soldiers where they are needed most, faster than we ever have before.”

For the soldier, this means “restoring full-squad insertion at extended range, expanding medevac reach well beyond today’s Golden Hour, enabling large-scale, long-range air assault operations that can reshape the battlefield,” Ingraham added. Just as critically, the Cheyenne II will be able to self-deploy globally, reducing cost, complexity, and response time in a crisis. This is also especially relevant for future operations in the Indo-Pacific region, where operating locations and objectives are likely to be dispersed across large areas with limited options for making intermediate stops.

Ingraham also noted another key aspect of the program, namely the incredibly aggressive schedule to get it into service. Claiming the program as an “acquisition success story,” he described the team moving “with urgency while maintaining discipline.”

The MV-75 is designed around a modular, open-systems approach, with a digital backbone that should make it easier to adapt and upgrade as the program evolves.

“That means we can rapidly integrate new technologies, adapt to emerging threats, and avoid the costly redesigns of the past,” Ingraham said.

Ingraham confirmed that the fielding timeline is being accelerated, which means the first Cheyenne II unit should be equipped in Fiscal Year 2030. Exactly how realistic that ambition is is something that we will discuss in a follow-on story.

As Ingraham said, speed matters, not just in the air, but in acquisition as well.

“We did it through strong partnerships across industry, the requirements community, and our operational units like the 101st [The 101st Airborne Division, the Army’s premier air assault unit, and the first unit set to get MV-75s], ensuring this platform is not just technologically advanced, but operationally relevant from day one. Simply put, the MV-75 Cheyenne II is how we deliver capability at the speed of relevance.”

For a rotary-wing program that puts a lot of emphasis on speed, its new Cheyenne II name is especially appropriate. Let’s just hope its warp-speed development doesn’t end the same way as its partial namesake.

Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com

IF HOGWARTS was a real place, it would be rammed with selfie-stick-wielding tourists – but one quiet spot in a Devonshire city is the ultimate hidden gem for Potterheads.

It’s no secret that J.K. Rowling studied at Exeter University, but for years Harry Potter fans have been convinced that part of the city actually inspired a major feature of the movies (though she did debunk this herself).

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

Tucked away at a right angle off the bustling high street, you’ll find Gandy Street – a crooked, cobbled lane that looks remarkably like Diagon Alley.

To find it, you’ll have to venture down an opening between Urban Outfitters and Costa – and many visiting the city actually miss this.

The lane then opens up into a magical world of bunting, twinkling lights and higgidy-piggidy shops.

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While the film‘s Diagon Alley is actually a film set, the resemblance is clear.

According to Warner Brothers Studio Tour, the design of Diagon Alley was inspired by Charles Dickens’ descriptions of London.

However, director Chris Columbus realised that not many places look like 19th century London anymore, so a set for Diagon Alley was built specifically for filming.

Misshapen buildings tower over the lane and there is a flea market vibe similar to that of the bird cages and antique-style signs hanging from Diagon Alley’s shopfronts.

The entire street has dark-stone architecture, just like the gloominess of Diagon Alley.

Though the colourful shopfronts brighten the street in the same way Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes does for Diagon Alley.

While Diagon Alley boasts Flourish and Blotts, Mr Mulpepper’s Apothecary, Gringotts Wizard Bank and OIlivanders wand shop, Gandy Street has its own destinations worth visiting.

You might not be able to gobble a Chocolate Frog, but you can dive into Chococo for a hot chocolate.

At the Makers Market, you will find magical trinkets created by local sellers such as handmade handbags and quirky prints.

For pretty and unique jewellery head to Silver Lion and for gifts drop by Moko.

Even The Vaults nightclub looks a bit like Gringotts Bank, though don’t expect to find a dragon – just good cocktails.

If you are hungry there are a couple of spots on the street to grab a bite to eat including Red Panda, where you can grab a bao bun and salad for under a tenner.

For another interesting spot nearby, venture to Parliament Street which is thought to be the narrowest street in the UK and one of the narrowest in Europe.

It dates back to the 14th century and at its narrowest point measures only 63.5cm.

And your adventure around the city doesn’t have to end there…

Make sure to head to the Cathedral Quarter, where – in my opinion – you’ll find one of the most breathtaking cathedrals in the UK.

The 12th century Gothic cathedral has the “longest unbroken stretch of Gothic vaulting” remaining in the world, according to Visit Exeter, measuring 91metres – about the same as the height of Big Ben.

One of my favourite things to do here is enjoy the cathedral green and look at the 50-plus statues carved into the Salcombe and volcanic stone the cathedral is built out of.

Make sure to explore the lower part of the high street as well, just a short walk from the cathedral.

Here you’ll find most of the independent businesses in the city including cosy cafes and McCoys Arcade, which is home to a number of shops including a book store and record store.

If you do want to head to some of the bigger brand names, walk to the very top of the high street where you will find the likes of Lush, John Lewis, Next and Waterstones.

The best part to visiting the city? Unlike Harry, you won’t need to tap your wand on the wall to get in… You just need a train ticket to Devon.

If you are wanting to explore more of Devon, here’s the hidden town tourists often skip but locals love, with a coastline of secret coves and historic funicular.

Plus, here’s how to have a cheap Devon holiday this summer.

Kirsty Soames is one of Coronation Street’s most infamous villains before she was sent to prison for her crimes over a decade ago

Coronation Street’s Kirsty Soames caused plenty of drama during her stint – but what has the actress been up to since her exit?

Back in 2011, Kirsty (Natalie Gumede) made her debut as the love interest of Tyrone (Alan Halsall). The pair soon hit it off – and even went on to welcome a daughter, Ruby, together in 2012.

However, things took a dramatic turn when Kirsty started to abuse Tyrone, often turning against him in violent rages. The nasty police officer ended up lying and accusing Tyrone of abusing her.

However, during his trial in 2013, Kirsty confessed that she was the abuser and Tyrone was cleared of any wrongdoing while she was convicted and sent to prison. She nominated Tyrone to have custody of Ruby, and he told her he never wanted to see her ever again.

A year later though, she was referenced on the long-running ITV soap when she sent Tyrone abusive texts after leaving prison in 2014. Fast forward to 2021 and Tyrone was informed that Kirsty had died. It was claimed that Kirsty died from an aneurysm, and she was discovered in her flat by a neighbour.

And over on the long-running soap this week, Tyrone’s domestic abuse past was mentioned after it came out that Todd Grimshaw (Gareth Pierce) has been abused by husband Theo Silverton (James Cartwright).

Talking about her decision to leave the soap, Kirsty actress Natalie previously said: “It was really tough, but I was ready to leave.

“I think it was a healthy time to go after such an intense storyline, but it’s surprising how a place kind of creeps under your skin, and I don’t think I could have wished to work with a better team so it did surprise me how emotional I was at leaving.””

After her cobbles exit, Natalie was in high demand. She appeared on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing in 2013, and was partnered with Artem Chigvintsev. The pair lost out to Abbey Clancy & Aljaz Skorjanec and came joint second along with Susanna Reid & Kevin Clifton.

Her other TV credits include 2015’s ITV Jekyll & Hyde, Vera in 2019 and Netflix’s Free Rein from 2017 to 20192. Natalie also appeared in the 2022 Netflix smash Your Christmas or Mine? and it’s sequel in 2023, playing Kaye Taylor.

Speaking at the premiere of the movie, Natalie revealed it was refreshing to play the fun Kaye after always playing a “dark” and “sinister” character.

“Aunty Kaye is one of the my most favourite characters I’ve ever played. I’m always sort of the dark, slightly miserable character, a bit cold a bit sinister,” she said. Natalie added: “And so for the first time I could really just get my teeth into something where I could just be silly and have fun and I absolutely loved it.”

Coronation Street airs Monday to Friday at 8:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX

A ‘NOVEL coat’ has been launched which holds 48 books in 12 compartments

How’s this for a book jacket – a ‘novel coat’ has been launched to help travellers who want to take their beach reads on holiday.

Modelled by Sunday Times Best Seller and TV personality, Charlotte Crosby, the unusual outerwear has a total of 12 compartments on the front and the back.

The coat has enough space to carry 48 books at once, in a cheeky nod to getting around suitcases full of holiday clothes, many of which will come home unworn anyway.

It was released by loveholidays to encourage people to pick up a book on their travels, after the National Literacy Trust reported reading rates are at a 20-year low.

The tongue-in-cheek coat comes after a poll of 2,000 UK holidaymakers found 27 per cent of items packed for a trip are never actually worn.

Meanwhile 57 per cent overpack by filling their bag up to the brim with clothes every single time – and more than a quarter (26 per cent) take too many pairs of shoes on holiday.

Charlotte Crosby said: “I’m absolutely made up with this coat, I love it. I can carry all my holiday reads and all the outfits I’ve planned for my trip.

“Reading is a key part of my holiday, but I am also a serial over-packer and have to sit on my suitcase to zip it up every time as I take too many clothes with me.

“With this coat I’ll never have to worry about leaving enough space for my books ever again.”

Al Murray, a spokesperson for online travel agent, loveholidays, which also commissioned the research, said: “It’s easy to stuff your suitcase with too many clothes – leaving less room for the things that matter, like that bestselling thriller you’ve been dreaming of reading by the pool.

“For many, a good book is the perfect way to truly switch off, so making space for a few great reads can make all the difference to a relaxing escape.”

The study went on to find the reasons for overpacking include those ‘just in case outfits’ that never get worn (62 per cent) and unexpected weather (52 per cent).

Two in 10 of those polled by OnePoll reckon they never seem to leave enough room in their luggage for books.

Of those who don’t prioritise books when packing, 23 per cent said they didn’t think they were as essential as other items, and the same number didn’t think they will have enough time to read while away.

Despite this, among those who enjoy reading on their travels, 61 per cent said it relaxes them deeply, and 49 per cent credit having no time pressure and it being a screen-free joy.

Exactly one in 10 of those that take books on holidays don’t read as much as they’d like while they’re away.

Since 31 per cent of them struggle to find quiet time or space to read, 30 per cent end up spending time with family or friends instead and 28 per cent get distracted by their phone or social media.

bPlus 18 per cent of all travellers admitted they would take more novels abroad if they had more space in their suitcase.

Al Murray added: “So many holidaymakers love to read but just don’t end up getting to read as many books as they’d like while on their travels.

“And with people admitting they stuff too many things in their cases that they don’t even need while they’re away, it’s a fun reminder to pack smarter and make space for the stories that help turn a good holiday into a great one.”

TOP 25 HOLIDAY READS:

1.    The Thursday Murder Club
2.    The Time Traveller’s Wife
3.    Where the Crawdads Sing
4.    The Housemaid
5.    The Couple Next Door
6.    It Ends With Us
7.    The Holiday
8.    The Alchemist
9.    Me Before You
10.  One Day
11.  The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
12.  Normal People
13.  The Midnight Library
14.  The Road Trip
15.  Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine
16.  Big Little Lies
17.  The Island
18.  The Secret Life of Bees
19.  Lessons in Chemistry
20.  It Starts With Us
21.  Daisy Jones and The Six
22.  The Satsuma Complex
23.  Crazy Rich Asians
24.  My Brilliant Friend
25.  Rachel’s Holiday

A landlord fascinated by the space and the sky set up an observatory – in the back garden of his pub.

Alan Boddington, 67, first took interest in the space when looking at the moon with his uncle using a brass telescope on top of a coalbunker.

His fascination was further sparked when watching Neil Armstrong landing on the moon in 1969 during the Apollo 11 mission.

When he took over The Poltimore Inn, he saw an opportunity to build an observatory in back garden of the pub.

Located in the village of North Malton, Devon, the pub is on the edge of Exmoor National Park – Europe’s first ever dark sky reserve.

Minimal light pollution and cloudless nights mean thousands of stars and astronomical sights such as the Milky Way can be spotted.

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He said: “When a cloud comes over it means you can pop into the pub, have a pint and maybe sit by the fire to warm up.

“Once the sky clears you can come out with your pint and appreciate the dark sky.

“Takes a little while for your eyes to adjust but we have got red lighting all the way down to the observatory.

“It’s an unusual thing to have a pub with an observatory but also with our accommodation we can give people the opportunity to look at the Dark Sky.

Mr Boddington bought the Poltimore Inn in October 2012 from a large pub chain.

With his “long term” love for space he saw a potential to create an observatory outside the pub.

Five years ago he set up with observatory and it was funded by himself.

The telescopes costed around £10,500 and the building which was self-built was £27,000.

On a cloudless night it is possible to see the milky way, thousands of stars and astronomical sights from the Exmoor National Park.

He said: “I was introduced to the moon as a 9-year-old when my uncle brought over his telescope and set it up for me to have a look at the moon.

“The moon project Apollo went off and it was one of those things that your parents let you stay up for.

“I still have a lot of the newspaper cuttings.

“When it came to setting up the pub I thought it would be the ideal opportunity for me, with the Exmoor Dark Sky, to take advantage and also enjoy my hobby.”

Within the observatory, there is a permanently Polar and star aligned Meade LX200 12-inch telescope and a new era “smart” telescope in the Unistellar Ev-Scope.

There are also numerous other manual telescopes and Skywatcher Dobsonians for beginners.

It features an electronic roll off roof, a private outdoor decking observation area, as well as private amenities, plus tea and coffee making facilities.

He continued: “This has been a great boost to go from being youngster to seeing the Apollo to seeing this venture Artemis going off and going looping round the moon is amazing.

“Also the technology that is gone with it – we are going to be looking at tremendous pictures for the next six months as they are released.

“The Darkside of the Moon is something that we don’t generally see and I think we will have a lot of surprises from that.

“Also the eclipses will show us different details. We are really pleased to see the astronauts coming back safely and leave safely.

“I hope it really stimulates the whole space idea in Europe, in England and with the scientists in this country.”

The building of the Poltimore Inn Observatory helps him share his passion for astronomy and space exploration.

The Poltimore Inn Observatory holds regular monthly events run by astronomers Jo and Pete Richardson.

The primary school in North Malton also visits the observatory as part of their education.

He hopes his observatory keeps inspiring both young and old about the space and the sky.

To get to know more about The Poltimore Inn visit their website here.

SPAIN has long been the most popular destination for British holidaymakers – but this year is set to see a record high.

Experts have said tourism numbers could hit 100million this year.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

The ongoing war in the Middle East has seen nervous holidaymakers ditch some of the nearby popular destinations, such as Turkey, Egypt and Dubai.

This has instead seen them instead wanting to stay closer to home, with holidays to Spain booming.

Last year, the country welcomed 97milllion foreign tourists (up 3.5 per cent from 2024), so experts have now said it could go over 100million.

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But where to start? Do you opt for a vibey city break, or a family-friendly beach resort?

The Sun’s team of travel experts have revealed their favourite places, as well as some of the little-known spots – and how to find a mega cheap pint of beer.

Ibiza

Everyone knows Ibiza’s nightlife is a vibe – but if you want a quieter side to the island, then head to Cala Llonga.

It’s on the east coast is a family-friendly resort that shows the island’s calmer side, with rugged nature to explore and smaller, quieter hotels.

For families, the beach has flat golden sands and shallow waters overlooked by lifeguards.

Or for more adventurous travellers, there’s plenty of hikes through pinewoods that lead to rocky coves with small blue bays.

– Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

Valencia

You know a city is amazing when you visit during a rare 45C ‘heatbomb’ where you can barely step outside – but you still love it.

Valencia was the city that restored my love of Spain (after a mugging incident in that famous city put me off for years) for a number of reasons.

The massive City of Arts and Science was one of the most stunning buildings I’d seen, and felt like I’d stepped into another world (and fantasy fans will spot it from both Doctor Who and Westworld).

But I also loved wandering the El Cabanyal neighbourhood, named one of Europe‘s coolest and where we walked past pretty tiled houses and converted warehouses playing live jazz.

My bargain tip – head to La Finestra for £2 mini pizzas. Just be ready to perch on the kerb as its a ‘eat where you find a space’ kind of vibe.

– Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Gran Canaria

I’m a sucker for a fly and flop getaway – give me glorious sunshine and a continual stream of margaritas delivered to my sunlounger and I’m happy as Larry.

I’d booked a half-board stay at one of the many swish Gran Canaria resorts overlooking the beach, with temperatures are still in the low 20Cs even during winter.

But perhaps naively, I had no idea how much MORE the island had to offer – including how much of a hotspot the island was for stargazing.

Its dark and clear skies remain relatively free of light pollution, making it much easier to spot glittering stars with the naked eye.

There are plenty of professional astronomy tours you can book to get a better look through a professional telescope too.

– Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Cadiz

In Spain’s quieter Costa de la Luz, sunny Cadiz is where the locals like to holiday – and has even been compared to the likes of Cuba.

The southern Spanish city has the best of Andalusian culture, with charming narrow streets overlooked by the impressive 18th century Cádiz Cathedral.

The cathedral itself is well worth a visit, with an £7 ticket granting you access inside, as well as the top of the tower, the crypts and exhibitions.

Plus this area comes alive in the evenings, with a vintage carousel in the same plaza and buskers playing the guitar.

When you’re not strolling the narrow streets lined with tapas bars and cafes, you must make sure to tick off the beaches in Cadiz.

Playa la Caleta is a small stretch of sand that sits between two castles (and was used to film that Halle Berry moment in James Bond) whilst Playa Victoria has white sand and a lengthy promenade to stroll.

– Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

Seville

Deep in the south of Spain, Seville really has it all, and feels much more Spanish than some of the other cities across the country.

One of my favourite neighbourhoods is Alfalfa which has pretty little cafes and restaurants to explore – Casa Toni is a must for tasty paella, as well as the tiny Bar Alfafa where you can squeeze in with the locals for some delicious tapas plates.

Most main dishes start from around a tenner, while wine tends to sit between £2.50 and £3 depending on where you go.

Salvador Square is beautiful in the morning time.

I’d recommend taking a morning stroll there and picking up some brunch from Sagasta to enjoy on the outdoor seating.

For pictures, head to Plaza de Espana, which is one of the most well-known landmarks in Seville.

It’s a huge semi-circular plaza stretching over 50,000 square metres with four bridges sitting over a canal decorated with brightly coloured mosaic.

You’ll no doubt pass by Seville Cathedral too – which is the biggest Gothic cathedral in the world and while you can pay to go inside, equally, you can experience its grandeur from outside.

– Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

If you want a fancy hotel on a budget, Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey also added: “I spent just a few days in Seville but one of the highlights was the hotel I stayed at.

“Only U felt like a fancy members club – think Soho House vibes – but without the price tag.

“An onsite florist, bakery and heated pool as well as a stunning bar area – and the chic rooms were some of the most glam I’ve stayed in – all for under £100 a night.”

Barcelona

Nothing is more spectacular than flying into Barcelona, as the plane heads flies straight over the golden coastline and into the sprawling city behind it.

I often avoid the most-visited spots, but seeing the Sagrada Familia is a must when in the city—nothing quite like this arty Gaudi-designed cathedral exists anywhere else in the world.

And away from the hustle and bustle, venture into the intricate network of lanes in the Gothic Quarter.

There are many independent shops to explore as well as places to grab some wine and tapas.

The bars here tend to be cheaper than those in the city centre – you’ll be able to grab a glass of wine and a couple tapas dishes for around a tenner. 

Don’t miss Patisserie Hofmann in the Gothic Quarter – it serves desserts that are essentially edible art (think a giant chocolate truffle that looks like the moon).

– Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

Lanzarote

It’s cheap, it’s cheerful, it’s sunny and it’s just four hours away – Lanzarote has fast become one of my favourite spots for a holiday.

I went to the island just last month where there were highs of 18C (much warmer than the UK’s chillier 10C).

I really recommend staying in Hotel THB Tropicale – it is lovely and quiet and without enough to do even if the weather turns on you.

The accommodation is in self-contained apartments with little kitchenettes if you want to whip up your own meals.

There’s an on-site shop selling the basics, as well as a pizzeria, bar and buffet area for meals, entertainment area, lots of swimming pools and a tennis court.

I’d recommend not booking all-inclusive and heading down to the Playa Blanca strip which had plenty of restaurants and bars – and weren’t too expensive either.

Safe to say I drank a lot of the local beer, Dorada – usually costing as little as €3 (£2.61).  

– Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Majorca

You know that annual family holiday abroad – the spot you return to year after year, to the very same hotel that you love? For me and my family, that was a trip to Hotel BQ Delfin Azul in Alcudia.

I loved holidaying there as a kid – getting up on stage at the kids disco, taking an inflatable unicorn into the pool, loading up on desserts at the all-inclusive buffet.

And when it comes to Spanish resorts, Alcudia is a near-perfect pick for families.

Exploring the Old Town and Roman Ruins of Pollentia keeps parents and history buffs happy, whilst Hidropark Alcudia has waterslides and trampolines adored by kids.

It’s also a super affordable part of Majorca, with a meal from the menu del dia at restaurants along the Bellevue Strip costing around €10 (£8.70).

– Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter

While many Brits associate Majorca with its sun-drenched beaches and laidback hotels lining the coast, its capital city is where I like to head.

Old world charm seeps from its gothic architecture and the cobblestone streets are littered with tiny cafes that look as if they’ve been serving coffee for centuries.

It’s also a great place to shop with high street stores like Zara, H&M and (my personal favourite) Massimo Dutti, flogging gear for a much cheaper price than in the UK. Plus, shopping abroad always feels a little fancier.

Swing by the mighty cathedral which is so much more than just a beautiful Gothic structure – you can climb the 215 steps to its roof terrace for epic views over the city.

– Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Marbella

Forget the summer season of Marbella, and let me persuade you to visit out of the peak season.

First of all, you can pretty much walk into any bar or restaurant without having to book – we were the only non-locals in Taberna La Niña del Pisto and somehow only spent £20 each despite piles of tapas and even a bottle of wine.

Sure, you’ll have to miss the beach clubs – most of them are only just starting to open, with others not until May – but instead you get quiet streets to take in the heart of the Spanish resort.

I spent my trip at the Hard Rock Hotel, enjoying music-themed massages as well as breakfast doughnuts aptly hanging from a guitar

If you can wait until Christmas, Marbella really comes alive – the insane amount of lights throughout the town, as well as the live concerts of Felix Navidad and one of Spain’s ‘most Christmassy streets’ aren’t to be missed.

– Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

ATHENS, Georgia — Fresh from a marathon trip to Pakistan that failed to reach a deal for ending the war with Iran, Vice President JD Vance jetted to this Georgia college town for a campus tour organized by the conservative powerhouse Turning Point USA.

But instead of showcasing the youthful energy that the organization harnessed to return President Trump to the White House less than two years ago, there was a mostly empty arena, awkward questions and unusually sharp criticism.

The event affirmed Trump’s difficulty selling the war and how much he’s complicated his own political fortunes by assailing Pope Leo XIV and posting a social media meme that depicted himself as Jesus.

“I did vote for Trump. I am not a Trump supporter anymore,” said Joseph Bercher, a Catholic who said he was glad that Leo has expressed opposition to the war with Iran.

Bercher said the Jesus meme, which the president took down Monday after a rare conservative backlash, was a “red flag” indicating Trump’s true character.

“He sees himself as like a demagogue or someone to be worshipped,” Bercher said.

C.J. Santini, a recent graduate of Liberty University, an evangelical school in Virginia, said he didn’t have an opinion on whether Iran was truly close to manufacturing a nuclear weapon and thus needed to be attacked. But he laughed and shook his head when asked about Trump attacking Leo.

“It’s just stupid. Stupid,” he said, calling it a “distraction” from Trump’s agenda in Iran and at home.

Mostly empty arena contrasts with 2024 rallies

Many of the college-age attendees donned Turning Point attire, Trump hats and red-white-and-blue paraphernalia for the event. Yet they were outnumbered more than 2-to-1 by empty seats in what is not even the largest arena on this sprawling campus that sits about a 90-minute drive from downtown Atlanta.

A Marine veteran who served in Iraq, Vance acknowledged that not all young conservatives are enamored with another U.S. war in the Middle East.

“I’m not saying you have to agree with me on every issue,” Vance told the young crowd. “What I’m saying,” he added, “is don’t get disengaged.”

The vice president took questions from Turning Point executive Andrew Kolvet instead of Erika Kirk, who began leading the organization after the assassination of her husband Charlie Kirk. Kolvet said Erika Kirk canceled her plans to be on stage because of unspecified threats she had received.

Vance, whose presence ensured significant Secret Service and other law enforcement protection around the venue, said he’d been worried that the event would be canceled altogether.

Kolvet asked Vance directly about the war and Trump’s back-and-forth with Leo. Audience questions were more aggressive. Vance jousted with at least one heckler over the war in Gaza, and he was pressed by another person over the administration’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case files.

In the audience, even some of Vance’s sympathetic listeners offered caveats and critiques.

“The pope needs to stay out of politics,” said Jessie Williams, a Methodist. But he noted his mother is Catholic, and he said he understands why Catholics recoil at Trump calling the pope “weak” and suggesting that the first U.S.-born pontiff was chosen only as a counter to Trump.

Williams called Trump’s meme distasteful.

“I don’t like it, but it’s — what can we do?” Williams said. “He’s a grown man, he’s gonna do what he wants.”

Blake McCluggage, a Baptist, said he did not approve of the meme or Trump’s profane Easter Sunday message that threatened widespread destruction of Iran’s civilian infrastructure.

The threat, plus Trump’s follow up message that a “whole civilization” would die, prompted escalating criticism from Leo, with the pope calling the president’s comments “truly unacceptable.”

However, McCluggage said, “you can still be a Republican” despite disagreeing with Trump.

A day before coming to Georgia, Vance tried to laugh off the meme as a joke that “a lot of people weren’t understanding.” The vice president also seemed to echo Trump’s assertion that Leo should concentrate less on global affairs.

“It would be best for the Vatican to stick to matters of morality, to stick to matters of what’s going on in the Catholic church and let the president of the United States stick to dictating American public policy,” Vance said in a Fox News interview.

On stage in Athens, he shifted his arguments, saying he welcomes Leo’s comments even if he disagrees with them.

“At the very least, it invites conversation,” said Vance, who converted to Catholicism as an adult.

Still, Vance questioned Leo anew, pushing back specifically at the pope’s Palm Sunday assertion that God does not hear the prayers of those who make war. Leo was quoting scripture from the Old Testament book of Isaiah. Vance asked whether God was on the side of Allied forces in World War II as they liberated Jewish survivors of Nazi extermination camps.

“I certainly think the answer is yes,” Vance said. When Leo mixes global affairs and complex theology, Vance said, “it’s very important for the pope to be careful.”

Barrow and Megnien write for the Associated Press.

Seven-time Grand Slam champion Jamie Murray has retired from tennis as one of the most-decorated doubles players in the world.

Here’s a look back at his 2007 and 2017 mixed doubles triumphs at Wimbledon.

READ MORE: British doubles legend Murray retires from tennis

Available to UK users only.

A NEW £15million train station is set to open this summer in a pretty English market town, making it easier than ever to reach a stunning national park.

Excitement is already building ahead of its launch, with a brand new billboard unveiled, teasing a summer opening.

The new Okehampton Interchange station is currently under construction in Okehampton, right on the edge of Dartmoor National Park.

Posting online, Devon & Cornwall’s Great Scenic Railways said: “Hurrah! Shiny new billboard in Okehampton to promote the town’s second station, which opens this summer.”

They added the sign will be updated once the official opening date is announced.

Rail bosses say the long-awaited addition will make it far easier for visitors to reach the scenic beauty spot and surrounding countryside.

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Thanks to its vicinity to the National Park, the scenic town is the perfect place for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities such as riding, swimming, fishing and golf.

It’s also home to the second oldest Norman Castle in the county. It lies in ruins now but is still a place to marvel at for any history buffs.

The £15million project forms part of wider upgrades to the Dartmoor Line, linking the town with Exeter and beyond.

Once open, the new station is expected to boost tourism by improving access to Dartmoor’s rolling hills, walking trails and outdoor activities.

It will sit close to the A30 and aims to serve the growing eastern side of the town, while easing traffic in the centre.

The interchange will also help reduce pressure on parking at the existing Okehampton station, which will remain open.

Plans for the site include cycle parking, electric vehicle charging points, and better walking and bus links to encourage greener travel.

Construction is well underway, with a footbridge, lift shaft and platform already taking shape.

THERE’S a town in the UK which is not only beautiful, but is said to have some of the longest living locals in the country.

Lewes, in East Sussex town is known for being a big foodie destination.

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The Telegraph declared Lewes to be the country’s ‘prettiest town‘, and it’s also one of the top 10 places in the UK where Brits ‘live the longest’.

According to the publication, the average life expectancy in Lewes is 85.1 years for women, and 80.9 for men.

This is compared to the UK average which is 83 years for women and 79.1 years for men. (The lowest in the UK is in Blackpool with 78.9 years for women and 73.1 for men).

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Lewes was described as a ‘hip and historic’ market town with access to the South Downs National Park.

The main feature of the town, however, is its medieval castle which sits on a hilltop looking over it.

Visitors can climb up the steep staircase, and if they do so are rewarded with the best views of Lewes and the hills of the South Downs.

Entry tickets into the castle cost £12 per person.

Heading back into the town centre there are top bakeries, breweries and pubs to explore.

The Flint Owl Bakery was recognised in the top 50 UK bakeries by the Good Food Guide 2025.

It’s well-known for its Lewes-baked organic breads and pastries that are freshly baked each morning.

Lewes has its own local brewery called Harvey’s – which should be a spot that every visitor pops into, especially as it runs its own tours around the factory.

If you don’t fancy a tour, Harvey’s Brewery Shop is in the town too so you can pick up a few bottles of beer and ale to enjoy at home.

Something very unique about it is that its drinks are still delivered to the local pubs by dray horses.

For more British charm, here are some of our favourite seaside towns…

*If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue.

Sidmouth, Devon
Take a trip to Sidmouth on the Jurassic Coast and wander down Jacob’s Ladder to its pretty shingle beach. Make sure to walk along the promenade and check out the independent shops and boutiques. Stay at the four-star Harbour Hotel for sea views and traditional afternoon tea from £135 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Whitby, North Yorkshire
With a history of sailors and vampires, a dramatic coastal path, and the very best in pints and scampi, it takes a lot to beat Whitby. Pop in the amusements, eat award-winning fish and chips, and board the all-singing Captain Cook boat tour on the harbour. The Royal Hotel overlooks the harbour with stays from just £68 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Old Hunstanton, Norfolk
This town has some of the best beach walks beside striped limestone cliffs, a Victorian lighthouse and 13th century ruins. The beach has golden sands with rolling dunes and colourful beach huts, backed by a pretty pinewood forest. Stay at a beachfront hotel from £100 per room.

BOOK A STAY

Seahouses, Northumberland
This is an authentic British seaside break, with fishing boats bobbing on its pretty harbour and fresh catches of the day to enjoy in local restaurants. There’s no flashing arcades here, but there’s a great beach with rockpools, boat trips, and you may even spot a grey seal, too. Treat yourself to a stay at the Bamburgh Castle Inn from £129 per room.

BOOK A STAY

The Swan Inn on the high street is a popular spot to head into for a pint.

It has a unique pub garden too as it sits on the Greenwich Meridian – an invisible border which divides the world into east and west.

Another pretty spot just outside of the town is Glyndebourne, which is an opera house where Pavarotti once performed.

It sits amongst 12-acres of gardens with flowers, ponds and delicately trimmed hedges.

Every summer, it holds a festival where world-class opera singers perform – during the interval, guests can enjoy a fine dining dinner, or have a picnic on the grounds.

For more pretty gardens, head to Southover Grange Gardens, a former private garden built in 1952, which one visitor describes as a ‘gorgeous floral garden’.

The town is known for its annual bonfire celebration – which is the largest of its kind in the world.

It’s organised by six different societies, they each have a festival on the day with a torch-lit procession and of course huge firework displays all over the town.

For those who can’t get enough of being by the seaside, you can reach Brighton in under half-an-hour by car.

Or if you head to Brighton by train, it takes just 17-minutes from Lewes station.

Check out the other destinations in the UK where people live the longest…

Here is where people live the longest in the UK, according to The Telegraph…

Wokingham

Average life expectancy; Women – 85.6 years. Men 82.8 years

Kensington and Chelsea, London

Average life expectancy; Women – 87.1 years. Men 83.9 years

Windsor

Average life expectancy; Women – 85.1 years. Men 81.3 years

Richmond

Average life expectancy; Women – 86.3 years. Men 82.5 years

Totnes

Average life expectancy; Women – 85.9 years. Men 82 years

Bearsden

Average life expectancy; Women – 83.9 years. Men 80.3 years

Monmouth

Average life expectancy; Women – 85.2 years. Men 80.7 years

Fleet

Average life expectancy; Women – 85.5 years. Men 83.5 years

Lewes

Average life expectancy; Women – 85.1 years. Men 80.9 years

Stroud

Average life expectancy; Women – 84.4 years. Men 80.8 years

For more on the UK, staycations are set for a record high in 2026 – here are our top holiday wish list spots from trendy beach resorts to historic cities.

And here is one Travel Reporter’s favourite English village which is under an hour from London and a perfect day out.

April 15 (UPI) — President Donald Trump again threatened to fire Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell if he doesn’t step down from his position in May.

“Then I’ll have to fire him,” the president said on Fox Business. “If he’s not leaving on time — I’ve held back firing him. I’ve wanted to fire him, but I hate to be controversial. I want to be uncontroversial.”

Powell’s term as chair ends on May 15 and Trump does not have the authority to fire him without cause. But his nominated replacement, Kevin Warsh, hasn’t been confirmed by the Senate. If he doesn’t get confirmed, Powell could stay on as chair pro tempore.

“That’s what the law calls for. That’s what we’ve done on several occasions,” Powell said.

He said he plans to stay on the board.

“I have no intention of leaving the board until the investigation is well and truly over with transparency and finality,” Powell said.

The Senate Banking Committee is scheduled to have hearings on Warsh’s nomination on April 21.

Powell’s term as a Fed governor goes until 2028, but he said he hasn’t decided if he’ll serve out that term.

Complicating matters, the Trump administration has been trying to prosecute Powell for his role in the $2.5 billion renovation of the Fed headquarters. The building went far over budget, and Trump has implied that something illegal is happening.

U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro tried to subpoena Powell over the renovation, but a judge denied it. Pirro admitted she had no evidence.

Sen. Thom Tillis, R-S.C., who is on the Senate Banking Committee, said he will continue to block Warsh’s confirmation until the investigation into Powell ends.

But Trump said he isn’t worried about Tillis.

Tillis “is an American; he knows what to do,” he said.

Trump said the investigation must happen.

“What they’ve done to that, so it is probably corrupt, but what it really is is incompetent, and we have to show the incompetence of that,” he said.

Trump has wanted Powell out of the Fed since he was elected to office for the second term. He has said he wants interest rates dropped, but Powell has taken a more conservative approach. Powell has lowered the rates, but not fast enough for the president.

“Does that mean we stop a probe of a building that I would have done for $25 million that’s going to cost maybe $4 billion? Don’t you think we have to find out what happened there?” Trump said in the interview at the White House. “I have to find out.”

He called Powell “a disaster.”

“Here’s a man who took this little, tiny building and a couple of other little, tiny complex, and he’s spending more than $3 billion. I want to know who the contractor is, because that contractor is making billions of dollars, perhaps.”

The Fed said the building’s cost overruns are due to “unforeseen conditions” requiring more spending, including “more asbestos than anticipated, toxic contamination in soil, and a higher-than-expected water table.”

Trump has also tried to oust Fed governor Lisa Cook on the allegation that she committed mortgage fraud.

Norway is preparing to lift restrictions preventing its $2.2 trillion sovereign wealth fund from investing in government bonds issued by Syria.

The move follows the political transition after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad and the rise of Ahmed al-Sharaa, whose government has been seeking economic recovery and international reintegration after more than a decade of war and sanctions.

At the same time, Norway plans to newly restrict investments in bonds issued by Iran, aligning with ongoing international sanctions.

Policy Shift and Financial Context

The Norwegian sovereign wealth fund, the largest in the world, plays a major role in global financial markets. Its investment decisions often influence broader investor behaviour.

The updated policy removes Syria from the exclusion list for government bonds while adding Iran, reflecting changing geopolitical and sanctions dynamics.

Although the fund does not currently hold investments in Middle Eastern government bonds, the policy shift opens the door for future allocations and signals a reassessment of risk and legitimacy.

Geopolitical Significance

Norway’s decision represents a notable step toward Syria’s re-entry into the global financial system. It comes alongside other developments, including the restoration of Syria’s financial links with international institutions after years of isolation.

The move also highlights a divergence in how states are being treated: while Syria is gradually being reintegrated, Iran remains economically isolated due to continued tensions and sanctions.

As one of the world’s most influential sovereign investors, Norway’s stance could encourage other countries and institutions to reconsider their own restrictions on Syria.

Analysis

The decision reflects a broader recalibration of international economic engagement based on political change and shifting strategic priorities. By opening the possibility of investment in Syrian bonds, Norway is signalling cautious confidence in the new government’s direction and stability.

At the same time, the move remains largely symbolic in the short term. The wealth fund has no immediate exposure to Syrian debt, and actual investment will depend on risk assessments, market conditions, and institutional safeguards.

More importantly, the policy underscores how financial tools are increasingly used as instruments of foreign policy. Inclusion or exclusion from global capital markets can legitimise governments, incentivise reforms, or reinforce isolation.

In Syria’s case, gradual financial reintegration could support reconstruction and economic recovery, but it also raises questions about governance, transparency, and long-term stability after years of conflict.

With information from Reuters.

JASON Statham has shared some very rare family snaps from his holiday to Turkey with fiancee Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and their two young children. 

The actor, 58, took to social media to post photos from their time at five star hotel Regnum at The Crown in Antalya, where rooms cost up to £3,000-a-night. 

Jason and model Rosie, 38, are parents to Jack, eight, and four-year-old Isabella. 

Fast & Furious star Jason showed off his close bond with the kids while they relaxed at the hotel’s stunning crystal cove pool. 

He and Jack were seen taking in the view with their arms around each other, while another snap showed the young lad standing on his dad’s shoulders in the pool. 

Meanwhile Isabella was seen taking a dip in the water and one photo showed proud dad Jason lifting her into the air. 

GLOVES ARE OFF

Kelly Brook tried to PUNCH ex Jason Statham after catching him flirting

RACK & RUIN

I’m A Celeb’s Kelly Brook made £1.3m from Jason Statham relationship

Jason didn’t include any photos of Rosie in his upload, which he captioned: “The cave.”

The couple have been together since 2010 and got engaged in 2016.

But Rosie previously confessed they’re in no rush to walk down the aisle.

She told Entertainment Tonight: “We’re looking forward to that time. It’s also not a huge priority for us, we’re so happy.

“I think it will be fun to do it when the baby’s [Jack] grown up a bit and he can be involved in the wedding.”

Rosie and Jack live in a Georgian townhouse in London and have spent two years renovating it together.

Revealing how the process has been, she told Vogue Australia: “Jason has the most impeccable taste.

“He taught me so much about architecture and furniture.”

Rosie added that being in a relationship with Jason for 16 years has been “very grounding”.

U.S. and Iranian negotiators made significant progress in talks on Tuesday, moving closer to a framework agreement to end the war, according to a report by Axios citing two U.S. officials.

Mediators from Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey are working urgently to bridge

Anyone planning on boarding a plane with hold luggage has been urged to make one change to their suitcases before they fly – as it will help keep belongings safe

Plane passengers need to make one crucial change to their hold luggage. If you’re jetting off and you’ve got bags destined for the plane’s cargo hold, you’ll know just how nerve-wracking it can be to be parted from your belongings. There’s always that nagging worry that your luggage could be lost or stolen before you reach the baggage carousel at your destination, leaving you stranded without clothes, toiletries and other essentials during your holiday.

To tackle this, most travellers will attach luggage tags to their bags. These hold small pieces of paper where you can jot down vital information, such as your email address and phone number, so that should your bag go missing or end up on the wrong flight, airport staff can reach out to you if and when it’s located.

However, one woman on social media has flagged that these tags might not be the most secure option when you’re separated from your bags, particularly as some people inscribe their full name and home address on them.

In a TikTok video, Sammy urged fellow passengers to do something different with their tags, claiming it would help safeguard their personal details from anyone who might attempt to sneak a peek at their information.

She said: “This is something I’ve never seen anyone talk about, and I had to figure it out on my own. This is not safe for you for a plethora of reasons. You have your full name on there, you have your phone number, you have all of your contact information.

“These will flip over. You’re going to have your luggage, and it’s going to flip over, and anyone who sees it can not only take a photo of it, but also anyone who sees your content online that shows your luggage can get all of your information.”

Sammy described the risk of having your details stolen from your luggage tag as “so dangerous” and “so not worth it”. In its place, she advised opting for a luggage tag featuring a full cover. These typically open like a book and fasten with a popper or Velcro, ensuring nobody can access your personal details without deliberately taking your luggage.

You can also accomplish the same outcome by removing the piece of paper from your tag and flipping it around so your details aren’t visible from the outside. You could then write something along the lines of “information overleaf” or “please turn over” on the blank side facing outwards, so airport staff know exactly where to look should they need to get in touch with you.

Those commenting on the post put forward further alternative solutions, such as listing a dummy email address that you can monitor should you ever lose your luggage, but don’t use for anything else.

One person said: “I have a fake name with my spam email that I’ll check if I ever lose my bag.”

Another added: “I write my name and flight number on the front, then put ‘see reverse for personal details’ with my address.”

A third wrote: “Thank you!! I’ve been saying the same thing for years, and people think I’m nuts. Same with names on kids or pets clothing!”

Should you opt to include only your email address without your name, ensure the email itself doesn’t contain your name within the address.

Using a false name, as one commenter proposed, is not recommended, as should your bag go missing, you won’t be able to verify it’s yours if your ID fails to match the name on the luggage tag. That said, you can choose to display only your surname or initials on the card to safeguard as much of your personal details as possible.

Praise be to Allah.

For the second time in two weeks, President Trump used that phrase in a post about the Israel-U.S. war against Iran.

Crowing about the alleged destruction of Iran’s planes, ships and bases in a Truth Social post Saturday, he emphasized his greatest victory in the monthlong campaign: “Most importantly, their longtime ‘Leaders’ are no longer with us, praise be to Allah!”

Making sense of anything Trump says in the heat of posting is a fool’s errand, but it’s also entirely necessary. Sane wash his words we must, because no matter how unhinged or infantile, the world’s safety, fortunes and future are inextricably tied to America’s next move, and therefore to his next move.

So what is Trump trying to communicate, or provoke, by using the Arabic word for God, as Muslims do? Let’s translate.

The first and most likely explanation: “Praise be to Allah” was meant to disparage his adversaries in the Islamic Republic of Iran. They are Muslim, they refer to God as “Allah,” therefore, he will turn their phrasing against them. Word bombs to accompany the deadly ones falling in Iran and Lebanon.

All leaders deploy tough talk in times of war, but Trump’s posts read more like the feverish ramblings of mad Col. Kurtz (Marlon Brando) in “Apocalypse Now” — “You’re an errand boy sent by grocery clerks to collect a bill” — than Winston Churchill’s galvanizing call to arms against the Nazis, “We shall fight on the beaches…”

Unlike the fictional Kurtz or the real Churchill, Trump has no military experience. He avoided the Vietnam War draft with four student deferments and one medical deferment for bone spurs. An area where he is experienced? Baiting foes. Antagonizing enemies, genuine or imagined, is a Trump specialty, be it from the Oval Office, on the campaign trail, or in the before times, as a reality TV personality.

Painting Muslims as the Other is nothing new for Trump, (unless they come bearing luxury airliners as gifts — then they’re friends). The same goes for others in his party. Since the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran on Feb. 28, Rep. Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) posted that Muslims don’t belong in American society. Rep. Randy Fine (R-Fla.) wrote, “We need more Islamophobia, not less. Fear of Islam is rational.” And Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) reposted an image of the Twin Towers burning side by side with an image of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, with his own caption: “The enemy is inside the gates.”

The president’s first usage of “Praise be to Allah” as a middle finger to Iran landed on a Christian holy day, Easter Sunday. He posted a demand that Iran open the Strait of Hormuz: “Open the F— Strait, you crazy b—, or you’ll be living in Hell – JUST WATCH! Praise be to Allah.” Hardly messaging that brings to mind Easter egg hunts on the White House lawn.

If the idea was to humiliate Iran into submission, it’s not working. Iran doesn’t appear to be backing down, even after Trump’s week-ago threat that a “whole civilization will die tonight” if it failed to meet his deadline to reopen the strait. The critical global shipping route is still closed. Trump didn’t appear all that interested in the art of the deal, either, even as Vice President JD Vance tried and failed to negotiate with Iranian leaders in Pakistan on Saturday. The president told reporters that he didn’t “care” what happens with Iran negotiations because “regardless what happens, we win.” He also said, “Whether we make a deal or not makes no difference to me.” He was seen later in Miami at an Ultimate Fighting Championship cage match with Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Making the Allah references all the stranger were Trump’s other religious-themed posts this past weekend. One was a lengthy screed against Pope Leo XIV, whom Trump described as too liberal and “weak on crime.” It’s worth noting that more than half of American Catholics voted for Trump in the last election, and that his vice president is Catholic, as is the secretary of State and the first lady.

The other was a stand-alone, AI-generated image of himself as a Christ-like figure. It showed the 79-year-old clad in a white robe and papal-red cape, a divine light emanating from the palm of one hand while the other hand was placed on an ailing man. The post was deleted Monday morning after a sizable backlash.

“I did post it, and I thought it was me as a doctor, and had to do with Red Cross, as a Red Cross worker there, which we support,” Trump said, responding to a reporter Monday during a presser at the White House as DoorDash delivered an order from McDonald’s to promote the president’s “no tax on tips” policy.

There was no mention of Allah during that particular event.

Alhamdulillah.

Emotional night for Alex Vesia

From Maddie Lee: As left-hander Alex Vesia emerged from the Dodgers bullpen, heard the electric guitar riff of Seether’s “Gasoline,” and felt his adrenaline spike with the roar of the crowd, he knew 27 of those cheering fans had helped him and wife Kayla through a devastating loss just months prior.

He and Kayla had chosen the Dodgers’ game against the Mets on Tuesday, Healthcare appreciation night at Dodger Stadium, to celebrate the hands-on staff at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center who had cared for them last October, through the death of their newborn daughter Sterling Sol.

He’d spotted their suite by shirts Kayla had customized for the group, bearing the initials SV with a heart, and signed by Alex.

“Today was the first time I’ve seen pretty much all of them since everything,” Alex Vesia said after earning the save in the Dodgers’ 2-1 win Tuesday. “So it was very special, very emotional. … I couldn’t have written it any better.”

Continue reading here

Dodgers box score

MLB standings

Angels hit five homers to beat Yankees

Mike Trout homered for the third time in two games, combining with Jo Adell and Jorge Soler for three consecutive long balls in a five-pitch span against Ryan Weathers in the first inning, and the Angels beat the New York Yankees 7-1 on Tuesday night.

Trout hit a 2-and-1 fastball to the loading dock adjacent to Monument Park in center field and Adell hit another fastball on the next pitch into the visiting bullpen in left-center field. Three pitches later, Soler drove a 2-and-0 fastball into the left-field seats

Trout homered for the third straight at-bat after connecting in the sixth and eighth innings in Monday’s 11-10 loss.

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Angels box score

MLB standings

Kings lose to Canucks in OT

Jake DeBrusk scored his second goal of the game in overtime and the Vancouver Canucks beat the Kings 4-3 on Tuesday night.

DeBrusk collected a pass from center Elias Pettersson and tapped a shot in to seal the victory 2:58 into the extra period.

Defenseman Elias Pettersson opened the scoring for the Canucks (25-48-8), and DeBrusk and Zeev Buium added goals in the second period. Elias Pettersson had two assists. The Canucks won their third straight game for the first time since Dec. 14-20, when they took four straight road victories.

Continue reading here

Kings summary

NHL standings

Playoff-bound Ducks lose to Wild

Hunter Haight got his first career goal and rookie Jesper Wallstedt auditioned for action in the playoffs with 35 saves as the Minnesota Wild finished their regular season by beating the Ducks 3-2 on Tuesday night.

Danila Yurov and Robby Fabbri also scored for the playoff-bound Wild, who have won 21 of their last 22 games against the Ducks, including eight in a row.

Wallstedt, who is second in the NHL in save percentage, went 18-9-6 in his debut and has given the Wild plenty to consider for a potential postseason goalie rotation with Filip Gustavsson. Wallstedt allowed only 12 goals over his last six starts.

Continue reading here

Ducks summary

NHL standings

Bob Chesney pleased with UCLA’s progress

From Steve Galluzzo: Spring practice continued for the UCLA football program Tuesday morning at Spaulding Field and for the most part head coach Bob Chesney was pleased with his team’s progress.

It marked the sixth of 14 practices leading up to the annual spring game on May 2 at the Rose Bowl.

“The defense took strides today,” said Chesney, who was hired as the Bruins’ 20th head football coach on Dec. 26, replacing DeShaun Foster (fired after an 0-3 start in 2025) and interim coach Tim Skipper. “There were a couple turnovers in there. This was our second day with the officials, it was a different group and they were throwing some flags today. We just have to understand the game we’re in. As you get further along the referees step aside, but early in the season they’re excited to do their jobs and we gave them enough to throw laundry at so we’ll go back and check it all out.”

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Do World Cup tickets cost too much?

From Kevin Baxter: Aaron Levinson wanted to go to a World Cup game this summer, but he didn’t want to take out a second mortgage to pay for that. So after winning a chance to spend $560 for individual tickets in a FIFA lottery last fall, Levinson backed out.

Then he backed in again this spring.

“Maybe the sticker shock kind of started wearing off,” he said Sunday. “I got caught up in the excitement.”

So Levinson decided to pluck down $850 for two Category 3 tickets — among the cheapest available — for he and his wife to go the final U.S. group-play game at SoFi Stadium in June. When his wife reminded him that his two sons would be visiting then, he bought two more tickets, bringing his investment to $1,700, more than double the price of a seven-day cruise.

And that doesn’t include the nearly $250 it will cost to park near the stadium.

“That’s really steep,” said Levinson, a Galaxy season-ticket holder for more than a decade.

Continue reading here

Lakers focus on rebounding

From Broderick Turner: Rebounding was not a strength of the Lakers over the course of the regular season. Rebounding was a strength of the Houston Rockets during the 2025-26 campaign.

So, on their first day of practice Tuesday for Game 1 of the first round Saturday at Crypto.com Arena, the Lakers worked diligently on rebounding drills, knowing full well that will be one of the keys against the Rockets.

The Lakers were the fourth-worst rebounding team in the NBA, averaging 41.0 per game. The Rockets were the top rebounding team in the league, getting 48.1 overall and 15.0 on the offensive end.

And one of the Lakers’ better rebounders, Luka Doncic, won’t be available because he’s dealing with a Grade 2 left hamstring strain that he went to Spain for treatment. Doncic is second on the Lakers in rebounding at 7.7 per game. His starting backcourt mate, Austin Reaves, also is a good rebounder but he also won’t play because of a Grade 2 left oblique strain. Reaves is averaging 4.7 rebounds per game.

“They’re out indefinitely,” Lakers coach JJ Redick said about Doncic and Reaves.

Continue reading here

Lakers playoff schedule

First round
All times Pacific

Saturday: Houston at Lakers, 5:30 p.m, ABC
Tuesday: Houston at Lakers, 7:30 p.m., NBC
Friday, April 24: Lakers at Houston, 5:30 p.m., Amazon Prime Video
Sunday, April 26: Lakers at Houston, 6:30 p.m., NBC
*Wed., April 29: Houston at Lakers, TBD
*Friday, May 1: Lakers at Houston, TBD
*Sunday, May 3: Houston at Lakers, TBD

*-if necessary

Clippers playoff schedule

Wednesday vs. Golden State, 7:30 p.m., Amazon Prime Video

Loser is eliminated, winner advances to second play-in game on Friday, where they will play the loser of the other play-in game. Winner of that game becomes the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference playoffs.

This day in sports history

1901 — Boston Marathon won for second straight year by Canadian Jim Caffrey.

1907 — Boston Marathon won by Canadian Tom Longboat.

1937 — The Detroit Red Wings beat the New York Rangers 3-0 to take the Stanley Cup in the fifth and final game.

1952 — The Detroit Red Wings beat the Montreal Canadiens 3-0 to capture the Stanley Cup. The Red Wings holds the Canadiens to two goals in the four-game sweep.

1979 — 43rd US Masters Tournament, Augusta National GC: Fuzzy Zoeller wins his only Masters with a birdie on the 2nd hole of a playoff with Ed Sneed and Tom Watson.

1984 — Ben Crenshaw wins the Masters by two strokes over Tom Watson.

1985 — Marvin Hagler retains his world middleweight title by stopping Thomas Hearns in the third round at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Both slug it out with reckless abandon for eight minutes, which many consider the most electrifying three rounds in boxing history.

1990 — PGA Seniors’ Championship Men’s Golf, PGA National GC: South African Gary Player wins his third event title by two strokes.

1991 — Magic Johnson sets an NBA record for career assists in a 112-106 victory over the Dallas Mavericks. Johnson, who needed nine assists to break Oscar Robertson’s record of 9,887, gets 19.

2000 — NFL Draft: Penn State defensive end Courtney Brown first pick by Cleveland Browns.

2005 — Top-ranked Roger Federer’s 25-match winning streak ends when French teenager Richard Gasquet saves three match points before capturing a third-set tiebreaker at the Monte Carlo Masters. Federer’s 35-1 record this year is the best start on the men’s tour since John McEnroe was 39-0 in 1984.

2005 — Two-time Olympic champion Steven Lopez of the United States wins his third world taekwondo title, capturing the welterweight gold medal with a 3-2 victory over Ali Tajik of Iran.

2018 — Victor Oladipo scores 32 points and the Indiana Pacers hold off Cleveland’s second-half rally for a stunning 98-80 victory in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference series, handing LeBron James and the Cavaliers’ their first loss in the opening round in eight years.

2019 — The Clippers overcome an NBA record 31-point deficit to score an improbable 135-131 Game 2 playoff victory over the Golden State Warriors.

Compiled by the Associated Press

This day in baseball history

1909 — Leon Ames of the New York Giants pitched a no-hitter for 9 1-3 innings on opening day, but lost 3-0 to Brooklyn in 13 innings.

1915 — Rube Marquard of the New York Giants no-hit the Brooklyn Dodgers, winning 2-0.

1947 — Jackie Robinson played his first major league game for the Dodgers. He went 0-for-3, but scored the deciding run in a 5-3 victory over the Boston Braves in Brooklyn. He was the first Black man to appear in the majors since 1884.

1957 — President Eisenhower officially opened the 1956 season by tossing out the first ball at Griffith Stadium in Washington D.C. The ball was the 10 millionth Spalding baseball to be used in major league play.

1958 — Major league baseball came to California as the transplanted Giants and Dodgers played the first game on the Pacific Coast. Playing in Seals Stadium in San Francisco, Ruben Gomez blanked Los Angeles 8-0.

1968 — Houston and the New York Mets played 24 innings in a night game in the Astrodome before the Astros won 1-0. The game lasted more than six hours.

1976 — New York opened the refurbished Yankee Stadium with an 11-4 rout of the Minnesota Twins.

1977 — Hank Aaron becomes the first player to have his uniform number retired by two teams. The Atlanta Braves retire his No. 44 during a pre-game ceremony. The Milwaukee Brewers had previously retired Aaron’s number.

1987 — Juan Nieves threw the first no-hitter in Brewers history as Milwaukee beat Baltimore 7-0.

1993 — Sparky Anderson earned his 2,000th victory as a manager as the Detroit Tigers rallied to beat the Oakland Athletics 3-2.

1993 — Andre Dawson became the 25th player to hit 400 home runs as the Boston Red Sox beat the Cleveland Indians 4-3.

1997 — The 50th anniversary of Jackie Robinson’s breaking the color barrier in major league baseball is celebrated before 54,047 at Shea Stadium during a game between the Mets and the Dodgers. MLB retires Robinson’s No. 42 for all of major league baseball.

1998 — The first-ever AL-NL doubleheader is held in New York’s Shea Stadium as the New York Yankees beat the Angels 6-3 and the New York Mets edge the Chicago Cubs 2-1. The Yankees draw a crowd of 40,743, a dramatic contrast to the gathering of 16,012 who show up for the Mets game at night.

2000 — Cal Ripken became the 24th player to reach 3,000 hits when he lined a clean single to center off Twins reliever Hector Carrasco. He reached the milestone with his third hit in a 6-4 victory over the Minnesota Twins and became the seventh player in major league history to get 3,000 hits and 400 home runs.

2004 — Fifty-seven years after the historic event, major league baseball begins the tradition of Jackie Robinson Day, an annual celebration marking the day the color line was broken.

2006 — Eric Chavez, Frank Thomas, and Milton Bradley all homered on consecutive pitches in Oakland’s 5-4 victory over Texas.

2008 — Jose Lopez became the 12th player in major league history to hit three sacrifice flies in a game, and the Seattle Mariners tied the team record for five sac flies in an 11-6 victory over Kansas City.

2009 — Every player in Major League Baseball wears number 42 today on Jackie Robinson Day, in honor of the anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color line.

2009 — Ian Kinsler of Texas became the fourth player in team history to hit for the cycle, and was 6-for-6 in Texas’ 19-6 win over Baltimore.

2010 — Florida’s Jorge Cantu extended his major league season-opening record to 10 games with a hit in a 10-2 win over the Cincinnati Reds.

2011 — Texas tied an AL record by turning six double plays and the Rangers picked up where they left off last October, beating the New York Yankees 5-3. This was the 15th time an AL team made six DPs in a game. The major league mark for double plays in a game is seven by San Francisco in 1969.

2011 — Brennan Boesch hit a go-ahead two-run double with the bases loaded in the 10th inning and Detroit rallied to beat Oakland 8-4 for manager Jim Leyland’s 1,500th win. Leyland became the 19th major league manager to reach 1,500 wins.

2012 — Vin Scully is back in the broadcast booth for a record 63rd season after missing a week with a bad cold.

2022 — Jackie Robinson Day is celebrated across North America on the 75th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color line in Major League Baseball.

Compiled by the Associated Press

Until next time…

That concludes today’s newsletter. If you have any feedback, ideas for improvement or things you’d like to see, email me at houston.mitchell@latimes.com. To get this newsletter in your inbox, click here.