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Abducted boy found after 73 years

In a remarkable and heartwarming conclusion to a decades-long mystery, Luis Armando Albino, who was abducted 73 years ago, has been found alive and well, bringing joy and closure to a family that never gave up hope. Albino, who was born in Puerto Rico, was just six years old when he was abducted from Jefferson Square Park in West Oakland, California, in February 1951. On that fateful day, he had been playing with his brother Roger when he was lured away. His disappearance left his family devastated, and the case went cold for decades. His mother, who passed away in 2005, carried a newspaper clipping about her son’s kidnapping in her wallet until her death, refusing to give up on her belief that he was alive. This long-lost boy, now 79, was found after his niece, Alida Alequin, 63, took a DNA test in 2020. The results matched her with a man who turned out to be Albino, now living on the east coast of the US. Alequin, determined to find her uncle, sought the help of the FBI and the Department of Justice to track him down. A DNA sample confirmed his identity, finally solving the mystery that had haunted their family for over seven decades. Albino, a retired firefighter and Marine Corps veteran, had been raised by a couple who took him in as their son after his abduction. His niece said he had faint memories of being taken but had never been able to piece together the truth. Despite the astonishing discovery, Albino has chosen to keep a low profile and has declined to speak with the media. When Alequin shared the news of the discovery, the emotion was palpable. "She always had hope that he would come home," Alequin said of her grandmother. “She always felt he was alive. She took that with her to her grave.” The family had never stopped thinking about him. Pictures of Luis Armando hung in their home, and stories of his disappearance were passed down through the years, keeping his memory alive. Albino's reunion with his family was bittersweet. He reconnected with his brother Roger, but sadly, Roger passed away shortly afterward. Despite this, the family remains overjoyed to have found their beloved Luis after so many years of uncertainty. The missing persons report on Albino has since been removed from the California Department of Justice website, a poignant symbol of the long-awaited resolution to this case. For Alequin and the rest of the family, finding their lost relative after 73 years was nothing short of miraculous. "The outcome of this story is what we strive for," a police spokesperson said of the rare but incredible closure that comes from never giving up on hope. Images: Alida Alequin

Legal

Twelve-year-old boy falls to his death on cruise

A 12-year-old boy has fallen to his death onboard the Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas, as guests watched on in horror. The cruise was nearing the end of its itinerary on Sunday and was heading back to Texas after its seven-day cruise around the Western Caribbean when the incident occurred. Witnesses recalled that the boy was playing with a group of friends he had made on the ship before he tumbled over a 13-storey balcony, falling into the internal Central Park area of the ship, a plaza filled with bars, pubs and restaurants. Royal Caribbean staff attempted to resuscitate the youngster, but he died before the ship docked in Texas. The cruise company shared a statement that a death had occurred onboard but refused to share any more information as investigations into the incident began. Witnesses took to a Facebook page for passengers to share their condolences to the boy's grieving family, and share their version of event. "My daughter was friends with him and said he was upset today," posted passenger Sara Tullas. "She is so upset. I wish I would have known he was struggling today." The boy had taken part in the cruise's teen-club, and many passengers said their children had got to know the boy before his death. "The conversations I have had to have with my son really tripped me up," wrote Shannon Elizabeth on the Facebook page. "My son and him actually got really close on the cruise, and he saw too much of what happened." "My family and I saw the incident unfold right before us as we were looking down into Central Park from the pool deck," wrote Christa Schoolfield. "We did not see whether he jumped or was playing around." Another passenger wrote, "I looked over the railing after the emergency alert and wish I didn’t." "All I ask is to please hug your children tight and tell your family members you love them. Life can change in an instant. Today I was hiding ducks in Central Park and one second later a child's life was gone in front of me." Friends said the boy was on board with his family, including two sisters, for a birthday celebration. Image credits: Shutterstock

Travel Trouble

Boy accidentally smashes 3500-year old artefact

A 3500-year old jar has been smashed to pieces after a four-year-old boy accidentally knocked it over during a trip to a museum in Israel. The Hecht Museum in Haifa told the BBC that the artefact dates back to the Bronze Age between 2200 and 1500BC - and was considered a rare find because it was so intact. It had been on display near the entrance of the museum without any protective glass around it, as the museum believes there is a “special charm” in showcasing archaeological finds “without obstructions”. The boy's father, Alex, told the publication that his son had only "pulled the jar slightly" because he was "curious about what was inside", causing it to fall. He also said that he was "in shock" to see his son next to the ruined artefact and initially thought "it wasn't my child that did it". After calming his child down, he spoke to a security guard who confirmed what happened. The museum stated they would not be charging the family and they've even invited the child back to the exhibition for an organised tour after the incident occurred a few days ago. “There are instances where display items are intentionally damaged, and such cases are treated with great severity, including involving the police,” Lihi Laszlo from The Hecht Museum told the BBC. “In this case, however, this was not the situation. The jar was accidentally damaged by a young child visiting the museum, and the response will be accordingly.” A conservation specialist has also been brought on board to restore the jar, which will be returned to the museum "in a short time". The boy's father said they will feel "relieved" to see the jar restored but added they are "sorry" because "it will no longer be the same item". “Despite the rare incident” the museum told the publication that they intend to continue displaying items without barriers or glass walls, where possible. The ancient jar was likely originally used to carry local supplies like wine and olive oil and predates the time of the Biblical King David and King Solomon and is distinctive of the Canaan region on the eastern Mediterranean coast. Images: Hecht Museum

Travel Trouble

Yes, blue light from your phone can harm your skin. A dermatologist explains

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/michael-freeman-223922">Michael Freeman</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/bond-university-863">Bond University</a> Social media is full of claims that everyday habits can harm your skin. It’s also full of recommendations or advertisements for products that can protect you. Now social media has blue light from our devices in its sights. So can scrolling on our phones really damage your skin? And will applying creams or lotions help? Here’s what the evidence says and what we should really be focusing on. <h2>Remind me, what actually is blue light?</h2> Blue light is part of the visible light spectrum. Sunlight is the strongest source. But our electronic devices – such as our phones, laptops and TVs – also emit it, albeit at levels <a href="https://melasmaclinic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Melasma-LEDS.pdf">100-1,000 times</a> lower. Seeing as we spend so much time using these devices, there has been some concern about the impact of blue light on our health, including <a href="https://theconversation.com/do-blue-light-glasses-really-work-can-they-reduce-eye-strain-or-help-me-sleep-213145">on our eyes and sleep</a>. Now, we’re learning more about the impact of blue light on our skin. <h2>How does blue light affect the skin?</h2> The evidence for blue light’s impact on skin is still emerging. But there are some interesting findings. 1. Blue light can increase pigmentation <a href="https://academic.oup.com/ced/article-abstract/46/5/934/6598472?redirectedFrom=fulltext&login=false">Studies</a> <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/srt.13401">suggest</a> exposure to blue light can stimulate production of melanin, the natural skin pigment that gives skin its colour. So too much blue light can potentially worsen hyperpigmentation – overproduction of melanin leading to dark spots on the skin – especially in people with darker skin. 2. Blue light can give you wrinkles Some research <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6280109/">suggests</a> blue light might damage collagen, a protein essential for skin structure, potentially accelerating the formation of wrinkles. A laboratory <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29399830/">study suggests</a> this can happen if you hold your device one centimetre from your skin for as little as an hour. However, for most people, if you hold your device more than 10cm away from your skin, that would reduce your exposure <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inverse-square_law">100-fold</a>. So this is much less likely to be significant. 3. Blue light can disrupt your sleep, affecting your skin If the skin around your eyes looks dull or puffy, it’s easy to blame this directly on blue light. But as we know blue light affects sleep, what you’re probably seeing are some of the visible signs of sleep deprivation. We know blue light is particularly good at <a href="https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/japplphysiol.01413.2009?rss=1">suppressing</a> production of melatonin. This natural hormone normally signals to our bodies when it’s time for sleep and helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle. By suppressing melatonin, blue light exposure before bed disrupts this natural process, making it harder to fall asleep and potentially reducing the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/07420528.2023.2173606">quality of your sleep</a>. The stimulating nature of screen content further disrupts sleep. Social media feeds, news articles, video games, or even work emails can keep our brains active and alert, hindering the transition into a sleep state. Long-term sleep problems can also <a href="https://academic.oup.com/ced/article-abstract/40/1/17/6621145?login=false">worsen</a> existing skin conditions, such as acne, eczema and rosacea. Sleep deprivation can elevate cortisol levels, a stress hormone that breaks down collagen, the protein responsible for skin’s firmness. Lack of sleep can also weaken the skin’s natural barrier, making it more susceptible to environmental damage and dryness. <h2>Can skincare protect me?</h2> The beauty industry has capitalised on concerns about blue light and offers a range of protective products such as mists, serums and lip glosses. From a practical perspective, probably only those with the more troublesome hyperpigmentation known as <a href="https://dermnetnz.org/topics/melasma">melasma</a> need to be concerned about blue light from devices. This condition requires the skin to be well protected from all visible light at all times. The only products that are totally effective are those that block all light, namely mineral-based suncreens or some cosmetics. If you can’t see the skin through them they are going to be effective. But there is a lack of rigorous testing for non-opaque products outside laboratories. This makes it difficult to assess if they work and if it’s worth adding them to your skincare routine. <h2>What can I do to minimise blue light then?</h2> Here are some simple steps you can take to minimise your exposure to blue light, especially at night when it can disrupt your sleep: <ul> <li> use the “night mode” setting on your device or use a blue-light filter app to reduce your exposure to blue light in the evening </li> <li> minimise screen time before bed and create a relaxing bedtime routine to avoid the types of sleep disturbances that can affect the health of your skin </li> <li> hold your phone or device away from your skin to minimise exposure to blue light </li> <li> use sunscreen. Mineral and physical sunscreens containing titanium dioxide and iron oxides offer broad protection, including from blue light. </li> </ul> <h2>In a nutshell</h2> Blue light exposure has been linked with some skin concerns, particularly pigmentation for people with darker skin. However, research is ongoing. While skincare to protect against blue light shows promise, more testing is needed to determine if it works. For now, prioritise good sun protection with a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which not only protects against UV, but also light.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/233335/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/michael-freeman-223922">Michael Freeman</a>, Associate Professor of Dermatology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/bond-university-863">Bond University</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/yes-blue-light-from-your-phone-can-harm-your-skin-a-dermatologist-explains-233335">original article</a>.

Body

People in the world’s ‘blue zones’ live longer – their diet could hold the key to why

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/justin-roberts-1176632">Justin Roberts</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/anglia-ruskin-university-1887">Anglia Ruskin University</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/joseph-lillis-1505087">Joseph Lillis</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/anglia-ruskin-university-1887">Anglia Ruskin University</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mark-cortnage-438941">Mark Cortnage</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/anglia-ruskin-university-1887">Anglia Ruskin University</a> Ageing is an inevitable part of life, which may explain our <a href="https://time.com/4672969/why-do-people-want-to-live-so-long/">strong fascination</a> with the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2726954">quest for longevity</a>. The allure of <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26566891/">eternal youth</a> drives a <a href="https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/longevity-and-anti-senescence-therapy-market-A14010">multi-billion pound industry</a> ranging from anti-ageing products, supplements and <a href="https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/longevity-diet">diets</a> for those hoping to extend their lifespan. f you look back to the turn of the 20th century, average life expectancy in the UK was around 46 years. Today, it’s closer to <a href="https://population.un.org/wpp/">82 years</a>. We are in fact <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27706136/">living longer than ever before</a>, possibly due to medical advancements and improved <a href="https://www.health.org.uk/publications/reports/mortality-and-life-expectancy-trends-in-the-uk">living and working conditions</a>. But living longer has also come at a price. We’re now seeing higher rates of <a href="https://www.who.int/data/gho/data/themes/mortality-and-global-health-estimates/ghe-leading-causes-of-death">chronic and degenerative diseases</a> – with heart disease consistently topping the list. So while we’re fascinated by what may help us live longer, maybe we should be more interested in being healthier for longer. Improving our “<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4632858/">healthy life expectancy</a>” remains a global challenge. Interestingly, certain locations around the world have been discovered where there are a high proportion of centenarians who display remarkable physical and mental health. The <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15489066/">AKEA study of Sardinia, Italy</a>, as example, identified a “blue zone” (named because it was marked with blue pen), where there was a higher number of locals living in the central-eastern mountainous areas who had reached their 100th birthday compared with the wider Sardinian community. This longevity hotspot has since been expanded, and now includes several other areas around the world which also have greater numbers of longer-living, healthy people. Alongside Sardinia, these blue zones are now <a href="https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/81214929">popularly recognised</a> as: Ikaria, Greece; Okinawa, Japan; Nicoya, Costa Rica; and Loma Linda, California. Other than their long lifespans, people living in these zones also appear to share certain other commonalities, which centre around being <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3874460">part of a community</a>, having a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4224996/">life purpose</a>, eating <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33514872/">nutritious, healthy foods</a>, keeping <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41398-021-01735-7">stress levels</a> low and undertaking purposeful daily <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30202288/">exercise or physical tasks</a>. Their longevity could also relate to their <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9010380/">environment</a>, being mostly rural (or less polluted), or because of <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22253498/">specific longevity genes</a>. However, studies indicate genetics may only account for <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8786073">around 20-25% of longevity</a> – meaning a person’s lifespan is a complex interaction between lifestyle and genetic factors, which contribute to a long and healthy life. <h2>Is the secret in our diet?</h2> When it comes to diet, each blue zone has its own approach – so one specific food or nutrient does not explain the remarkable longevity observed. But interestingly, a diet rich in <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3662288">plant foods</a> (such as locally-grown vegetables, fruits and legumes) does appear to be reasonably consistent across these zones. For instance, the Seventh-day Adventists of Loma Linda are <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10641813/">predominately vegetarian</a>. For centenarians in Okinawa, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20234038/">high intakes of flavonoids</a> (a chemical compound typically found in plants) from purple sweet potatoes, soy and vegetables, have been linked with <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11710359/">better cardiovascular health</a> – including lower cholesterol levels and lower incidences of stroke and heart disease. In Nicoya, consumption of locally produced rice and beans has been associated with <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34444746/">longer telomere length</a>. Telomeres are the structural part at the end of our chromosomes which protect our genetic material. Our telomeres get shorter each time a cell divides – so get progressively shorter as we age. Certain <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21102320/">lifestyle factors</a> (such as smoking and poor diet) can also shorten telomere length. It’s thought that telomere length acts as a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31728493/">biomarker of ageing</a> – so having longer telomeres could, in part, be linked with longevity. But a plant-based diet isn’t the only secret. In Sardinia, for example, meat and fish is consumed in moderation in addition to locally grown vegetables and <a href="https://journalofethnicfoods.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42779-022-00152-5">traditional foods</a> such as acorn breads, pane carasau (a sourdough flatbread), honey and soft cheeses. Also observed in several blue zone areas is the inclusion of <a href="https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2021.10.041">olive oil</a>, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33669360/">wine</a> (in moderation – around 1-2 glasses a day), as well as <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3830687/">tea</a>. All of these contain powerful antioxidants which may help <a href="https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10049696/">protect our cells</a> from damage <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6273542/">as we age</a>. Perhaps then, it’s a combination of the protective effects of various nutrients in the diets of these centenarians, which explains their exceptional longevity. Another striking observation from these longevity hot spots is that meals are typically <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7232892">freshly prepared at home</a>. Traditional blue zone diets also don’t appear to contain <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6538973/">ultra-processed foods</a>, fast foods or sugary drinks which may <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32330232/">accelerate ageing</a>. So maybe it’s just as important to consider what these longer-living populations are not doing, as much as what they are doing. There also appears to be a pattern of eating until 80% full (in other words partial <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9036399/">caloric reduction</a>. This could be important in also supporting how our cells deal with damage as we age, which could mean a longer life. Many of the factors making up these blue zone diets – primarily plant-based and natural whole foods – are associated with <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35706591/">lower risk of chronic diseases</a> such as <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28728684/">heart disease</a> and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37589638/">cancer</a>. Not only could such diets contribute to a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37836577/">longer, healthier life</a>, but could support a more <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33397404/">diverse gut microbiome</a>, which is also associated with healthy ageing. Perhaps then we can learn something from these remarkable centenarians. While diet is only one part of the bigger picture when it comes to longevity, it’s an area we can do something about. In fact, it might just be at the heart of improving not only the quality of our health, but the quality of how we age.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/221463/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/justin-roberts-1176632">Justin Roberts</a>, Professor of Nutritional Physiology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/anglia-ruskin-university-1887">Anglia Ruskin University</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/joseph-lillis-1505087">Joseph Lillis</a>, PhD Candidate in Nutritional Physiology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/anglia-ruskin-university-1887">Anglia Ruskin University</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mark-cortnage-438941">Mark Cortnage</a>, Senior Lecturer in Public Health and Nutrition, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/anglia-ruskin-university-1887">Anglia Ruskin University</a> Image credits: Getty Images This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/people-in-the-worlds-blue-zones-live-longer-their-diet-could-hold-the-key-to-why-221463">original article</a>.

Food & Wine

Young boy beats rare brain cancer in world first

A 13-year-old boy from Belgium has become the first person in the world to be cured from a deadly brain cancer. Lucas Jemeljanova was only six-years-old when he was diagnosed with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a rare and aggressive brain cancer which kills 98 per cent of sufferers within five years. He was randomly assigned to receive everolimus, a type of chemotherapy drug during a clinical trial. The drug is commonly used to treat kidney, pancreas, breast and brain cancer, but up to this point has not been successfully used to treat DIPG. Seven years later, Lucas has responded well to the treatment and has no trace of cancer, and has officially been in remission for five years. His doctor, Jacques Grill said that Lucas "beat the odds" and his case "offers real hope". Lucas was one of the first few people enrolled in the BIOMEDE trial in France, which was testing potential new drugs for DIPG. The drug works by preventing the cancer cells from reproducing and decreasing blood supply to the cancer cells, and it is an FDA approved prescription drug for cancer. Doctors were initially hesitant to stop the treatment until a year ago and a half ago. "I didn’t know when to stop, or how, because there was no reference in the world," Dr Grill told the AFP. "Over a series of MRI scans, I watched as the tumour completely disappeared," he added. Seven other children who were also in the trial have been considered "long responders", as they haven't had any relapses for three years after their diagnosis, but only Lucas was cured. The reason behind his complete recovery is still unknown, but it could be because of "biological particularities" in his tumour. "Lucas' tumour had an extremely rare mutation which we believe made its cells far more sensitive to the drug," Dr Grill added. DIPG is typically found in children between ages five and nine. The cause of the tumour is unknown but some of the first symptoms include problems with eye movement and balance, facial weakness, difficulty walking and strange limb movements. Researchers are currently trying to reproduce the difference seen in Lucas' cells. "Lucas is believed to have had a particular form of the disease," Dr Grill said. "We must understand what and why to succeed in medically reproducing in other patients what happened naturally with him." However Dr Grill said that this process won't be quick. "On average, it takes 10-15 years from the first lead to become a drug – it's a long and drawn-out process." Images: Facebook

Caring

"She was everything": Beach Boys' Brian Wilson shares devastating news

The Beach Boys singer-songwriter Brian Wilson has shared that his wife of nearly 30 years has passed away. The 81-year-old musician broke the news on Instagram on Wednesday morning, saying that his "heart is broken" after his wife Melinda Ledbetter Wilson died aged 77. "Melinda, my beloved wife of 28 years, passed away this morning. Our five children and I are just in tears. We are lost," he wrote in his post, underneath two pictures of his wife. "Melinda was more than my wife. She was my saviour. She gave me the emotional security I needed to have a career," he said. "She encouraged me to make the music that was closest to my heart. She was my anchor. She was everything for us. Please say a prayer for her. Love and Mercy, Brian." <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C2vSn-zO_32/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C2vSn-zO_32/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Brian Wilson (@brianwilsonlive)</a> </div> </blockquote> In his post, he also shared a tribute that appeared to come from their five children collectively, which read, "It is with a heavy heart that we let everyone know that our mum, Melinda Kay Ledbetter Wilson passed away peacefully this morning at home." "She was a force of nature and one of the strongest women you could come by. She was not only a model, our fathers [sic] savior, and a mother, she was a woman empowered by her spirit with a mission to better everyone she touched. We will miss her but cherish everything she has taught us," the statement read. "How to take care of the person next to you with out expecting anything in return, how to find beauty in the darkest of places, and how to live life as your truest self with honesty and pride." They added, "We love you mum. Give Grandma Rose and Pa our love." Brian and Melinda first met in 1986 and married in 1995, before adopting their five children. Their love story and relationship was portrayed in the 2014 biographical drama film Love & Mercy, which starred John Cusack and Elizabeth Banks. Image credits: Getty Images

Caring

“I need a future”: New details on boy kidnapped for six years

When concerned motorist Fabien Accidini <a href="https://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/family-pets/missing-boy-found-alive-after-six-long-years" target="_blank" rel="noopener">happened upon Alex Batty</a> walking along a road in the foothills of the Pyrenees in France, he had no idea of the mysterious and tragic situation he had uncovered. “I said to myself, ‘That’s strange. It’s 3am in the morning, it’s raining, he’s all by himself on the road between two villages,’” Accidini told French news outlet BFMTV. Batty had gone missing from his home in England at the tender age of 11 back in 2017. Now 17, new details have emerged about the extraordinary six-year journey that unfolded since his disappearance. British and French authorities confirmed on Friday that the teenager discovered by Accidini was, indeed, Alex Batty. The initial family holiday to Spain turned into a six-year odyssey across Morocco, Spain and southwest France, as Alex and his family embraced a nomadic, off-the-grid lifestyle. French authorities revealed that Alex and his family moved from house to house, carrying their own solar panels, growing their own food, and living with other families in what the teenager described as a “spiritual community". However, last Wednesday marked a turning point as Alex suddenly appeared on a remote road in rural France, having parted ways with his mother. According to French prosecutor Antoine Leroy, Alex decided to strike out on his own when his mother expressed a desire to move yet again, this time to Finland. Leroy stated at a news conference in Toulouse, “When his mother indicated that she intended to leave for Finland with him, this young man understood that this journey had to stop.” Undeterred by the challenging circumstances, Alex walked for four nights, resting during the days and sustaining himself with whatever he could find in fields or gardens. It was during this solitary journey that Accidini spotted him on the rain-soaked road. Accidini offered assistance, and despite initial suspicion and a false name, Alex eventually opened up during the deliveryman's rounds. “He’d had enough. He said, ‘I am 17. I need a future.’ He didn’t see a future for himself there,” Accidini recounted. In an interview with La Depeche, Accidini shared more details about Alex's arduous journey: “He told me that he had been walking for four days, that he’d left from the mountains. He didn’t really know where.” Showing kindness, Accidini provided the thirsty teenager with water and allowed him to use his mobile phone to send a message to his grandmother. The message read, “Hello grandma, it is me, Alex. I am in France, Toulouse. I really hope that you receive this message. I love you. I want to come home.” Back in the UK, Greater Manchester Police confirmed that Alex had spoken with his grandmother, Susan Caruana, via video call. Assistant Chief Constable Chris Sykes stated, “Whilst she is content that this is indeed Alex, we have further checks to do when he returns to the United Kingdom. “Our main priority now is to see Alex returned home to his family in the UK.” Alex is expected to return to the UK in the coming days, as the investigation into the full circumstances of his disappearance continues. Images: Greater Manchester Police

Family & Pets

Missing boy found alive after six long years

A 17-year-old British boy named Alex Batty, who went missing in Spain in 2017 at the age of 11, has been found after six long years. On a Wednesday morning, a concerned motorist discovered Alex walking along a road in the foothills of the Pyrenees. This Good Samaritan, Fabien Accidini, picked up the young lad, offering water and kindness. Little did Fabien know, he was playing a crucial role in reuniting a family torn apart. Alex, who had been living in the remote Pyrenean valleys, was shy at first but eventually opened up to Fabien about his incredible journey. He revealed that he had been in France for two years, leading a nomadic life in an itinerant commune. His dream was to find a big city with an embassy to seek assistance. The touching part of the story was how Alex, carrying a backpack and skateboard, asked Fabien if he could borrow his phone. He then used the phone to send a message via Facebook to his grandmother back in England, Susan Caruana, telling her that he was fine and longing to see her. Susan Caruana, Alex's legal guardian, received the unexpected message, bringing tears of joy to her eyes. "I am so happy," she told The Sun newspaper. "I have spoken to him, and he is well. It is such a shock." The news of Alex's discovery spread like wildfire. As authorities worked diligently to unravel the mystery, it became apparent that Alex's mother, Melanie Batty, and grandfather, David Batty, who did not have parental guardianship, were still missing – and are still wanted by police in connection with his disappearance. The reunion also brought together international cooperation, with British police and consular staff rushing to France to bring Alex back home. Greater Manchester Police confirmed their collaboration with French authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of Batty. "This is a complex and long-running investigation," they said in a statement, "and we need to make further enquiries as well as putting appropriate safeguarding measures in place." The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issued a statement, affirming their support for the British national in France and their ongoing communication with local authorities. Images: Greater Manchester Police

Family & Pets

"You've restored my faith": Community shows up for lonely birthday boy

One dad's desperate plea has "restored" his faith after his local community showed up for his son's third birthday party. Pre-schooler William Buck and his dad Steven sat patiently on a beach in Wellington, waiting for his friends to arrive and begin the celebrations for his third birthday party. As time passed, William and his dad grew more hopeless, and they worried about the fate of the celebrations. "He kept asking where everyone was, and we were like 'they’re coming soon'," Steven Buck told <a href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/wellbeing/parenting/133203054/familys-plea-after-nobody-shows-at-3yearolds-birthday-brings-community-to-beach" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" data-i13n="cpos:2;pos:1" data-ylk="slk:Stuff;cpos:2;pos:1;elm:context_link;itc:0" data-rapid_p="9" data-v9y="1">Stuff</a>. Steven felt "guilty" that none of his son's mates had come to the party, especially given how excited his son had been for this birthday, as he had been talking about the celebration for weeks. In a last ditch effort to make William's day special, Steven turned to social media for help. Steven posted an image of the pair online and invited any locals wanting "some sun and sand" to join them. "William would love some friends to play with. He has Hot Wheels, sand toys, dinos, and we have some snacks and drinks. Any and all welcome," he wrote. Amazingly, locals responded in their thousands, wishing William a 'Happy Birthday' while many others joined the three-year-old and his parents. "Going there. See you soon," one local wrote, before arriving with her family. The partygoers arrived with bubbles and inflatables, parking themselves down on beach chairs ready to celebrate the sunny day with William. "Thank you so much everyone for the birthday wishes and support," Steven wrote online after the day. "Wellington you always restore my faith in humanity!" Image credits: Facebook

Family & Pets

Do blue-light glasses really work? Can they reduce eye strain or help me sleep?

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/laura-downie-1469379">Laura Downie</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a> Blue-light glasses are said to <a href="https://www.baxterblue.com.au/collections/blue-light-glasses">reduce eye strain</a> when using <a href="https://www.blockbluelight.com.au/collections/computer-glasses">computers</a>, improve your <a href="https://www.ocushield.com/products/anti-blue-light-glasses">sleep</a> and protect your eye health. You can buy them yourself or your optometrist can prescribe them. But <a href="https://mivision.com.au/2019/03/debate-continues-over-blue-blocking-lenses/">do they work</a>? Or could they do you harm? We <a href="https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD013244.pub2/full">reviewed</a> the evidence. Here’s what we found. <h2>What are they?</h2> Blue-light glasses, blue light-filtering lenses or blue-blocking lenses are different terms used to describe lenses that reduce the amount of short-wavelength visible (blue) light reaching the eyes. Most of these lenses prescribed by an optometrist decrease blue light transmission by <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/opo.12615">10-25%</a>. Standard (clear) lenses do not filter blue light. A wide variety of lens products are available. A filter can be added to prescription or non-prescription lenses. They are widely marketed and are becoming <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/opo.12615">increasingly popular</a>. There’s often an added cost, which depends on the specific product. So, is the extra expense worth it? <h2>Blue light is all around us</h2> Outdoors, sunlight is the main source of blue light. Indoors, light sources – such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and the screens of digital devices – emit varying degrees of blue light. The amount of blue light emitted from artificial light sources is much lower than from the Sun. Nevertheless, artificial light sources are all around us, at home and at work, and we can spend a lot of our time inside. <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/549210/original/file-20230920-16-tsb23b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/549210/original/file-20230920-16-tsb23b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/549210/original/file-20230920-16-tsb23b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/549210/original/file-20230920-16-tsb23b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/549210/original/file-20230920-16-tsb23b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=450&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/549210/original/file-20230920-16-tsb23b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/549210/original/file-20230920-16-tsb23b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/549210/original/file-20230920-16-tsb23b.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=566&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="Blue light-filtering lenses block some blue light from screens from reaching the eye" /></a><figcaption>Screens emit blue light. The lenses are designed to reduce the amount of blue light that reaches the eye. <a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-vector/blue-light-blocking-ray-filter-lens-2286229107">Shutterstock</a></figcaption></figure> Our research team at the University of Melbourne, along with collaborators from Monash University and City, University London, sought to see if the best available evidence supports using blue light-filtering glasses, or if they could do you any harm. So we conducted a <a href="https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD013244.pub2/full">systematic review</a> to bring together and evaluate all the relevant studies. We included all randomised controlled trials (clinical studies designed to test the effects of interventions) that evaluated blue light-filtering lenses in adults. We identified 17 eligible trials from six countries, involving a total of 619 adults. <h2>Do they reduce eye strain?</h2> We found no benefit of using blue light-filtering lenses, over standard (clear) lenses, to reduce eye strain with computer use. This conclusion was based on consistent findings from three studies that evaluated effects on eye strain over time periods ranging from two hours to five days. <h2>Do they help you sleep?</h2> Possible effects on sleep were uncertain. Six studies evaluated whether wearing blue-light filtering lenses before bedtime could improve sleep quality, and the findings were mixed. These studies involved people with a diverse range of medical conditions, including insomnia and bipolar disorder. Healthy adults were not included in the studies. So we do not yet know whether these lenses affect sleep quality in the general population. <h2>Do they boost your eye health?</h2> We did not find any clinical evidence to support using blue-light filtering lenses to protect the macula (the region of the retina that controls high-detailed, central vision). None of the studies evaluated this. <h2>Could they do harm? How about causing headaches?</h2> We could not draw clear conclusions on whether there might be harms from wearing blue light-filtering lenses, compared with standard (non blue-light filtering) lenses. Some studies described how study participants had headaches, lowered mood and discomfort from wearing the glasses. However, people using glasses with standard lenses reported similar effects. <h2>What about other benefits or harms?</h2> There are some important general considerations when interpreting our findings. First, most of the studies were for a relatively short period of time, which limited our ability to consider longer-term effects on vision, sleep quality and eye health. Second, the review evaluated effects in adults. We don’t yet know if the effects are different for children. Finally, we could not draw conclusions about the possible effects of blue light-filtering lenses on many vision and eye health measures, including colour vision, as the studies did not evaluate these. <h2>In a nutshell</h2> Overall, based on relatively limited published clinical data, our review does not support using blue-light filtering lenses to reduce eye strain with digital device use. It is unclear whether these lenses affect vision quality or sleep, and no conclusions can be drawn about any potential effects on the health of the retina. High-quality research is needed to answer these questions, as well as whether the effectiveness and safety of these lenses varies in people of different ages and health status. If you have eye strain, or other eye or vision concerns, discuss this with your optometrist. They can perform a thorough examination of your eye health and vision, and discuss any relevant treatment options.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/213145/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/laura-downie-1469379">Laura Downie</a>, Associate Professor in Optometry and Vision Sciences, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a> Image credits: Getty Images This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/do-blue-light-glasses-really-work-can-they-reduce-eye-strain-or-help-me-sleep-213145">original article</a>.

Body

Autistic boy wins national golf title after only THREE games

In a heartwarming tale that's sure to make your day, a spirited 12-year-old schoolboy from a charming rural town nestled in the Bay of Plenty has ignited pure joy in New Zealand's golfing community – in a story that will warm your heart and put a smile on your face. Meet Bayleigh Teepa-Tarau, the newest sensation in the world of golf, hailing from the picturesque township of Tāneatua, a place so small it doesn't even have its own golf course. But that didn't deter this young prodigy as he set out to conquer the national Zespri AIMS Games held in the vibrant city of Tauranga. The Zespri AIMS Games is one of Australasia’s largest junior sporting events, held annually in Tauranga Moana. Celebrating diversity, the Games provides an opportunity for adolescents from all demographics and education contexts to compete in sporting competitions, to meet others from outside their normal peer group, and to learn and build on their social interaction skills. The Zespri AIMS Games is highly regarded by national education and sporting organisations and is considered a leader in its area. Now, here's the twist that's sure to make you leap with excitement: Bayleigh had played a grand total of just three rounds of golf in his entire life before this tournament! It's almost like a golfing fairytale in the making. Armed with borrowed clubs, a pair of basketball boots and a big beaming smile, our tee-master extraordinaire embarked on his golfing journey, leaving everyone in awe. You might wonder how a newcomer to the game fares in such a prestigious competition. Well, let us tell you, Bayleigh was given a scoring handicap to reflect his beginner status. And did he rise to the occasion! With booming drives and precision iron shots, he amassed a staggering 87 Stableford points over his three nine-hole rounds. A true underdog story. But Bayleigh's triumph doesn't stop there. Alongside his schoolmates Pedro Robinson and Lincoln Reritito, he clinched the team title, earning well-deserved glory for Tāneatua School. They faced off against students from schools all over New Zealand and came out on top. When asked about his love for golf, Bayleigh's face lit up with joy as he exclaimed, "The thing I love about golf is hitting my driver. I dreamed about coming here and finishing in first place. And I had a lot of fun." Thanks to the incredible support system behind this young golfing sensation, Bayleigh's journey to the top wouldn't have been possible without the unwavering support of his family, including his dad Hemi Tarau and Pare Teepa, his grandfather, and nan. Their pride in Bayleigh's accomplishments is immeasurable. What's even more inspiring is that Bayleigh has autism, and his journey has been one of transformation. From spending most of his time in class under his desk, not speaking, to becoming a golfing superstar, it's a testament to his determination and the incredible power of sports to boost confidence and bring joy. And here's another heartwarming twist – Bayleigh's path to golf was paved by his school's teacher-aide, Whetu Wiremu. He noticed Bayleigh's fascination with swinging a stick and decided to introduce him to golf. Wiremu's dedication and passion for the game not only changed Bayleigh's life but also the lives of other young students from Tāneatua School. For Wiremu, it's not just about golf but also about instilling life skills and values. He believes that golf, with its unique blend of competition and camaraderie, can offer these kids opportunities beyond their community, transcending boundaries and challenges. As for Bayleigh's future, he's setting his sights on competing in the Special Olympics. With a heart full of determination and a community that believes in him, there's no telling what incredible heights he'll reach. To that end, a <a href="https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/backing-bayleigh" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Give A Little</a> fundraising account has been established to help support this inspiring youngster and help him on his way. In the end, Bayleigh's story reminds us all that joy, determination and unwavering support can overcome any obstacle. It's a testament to the power of dreams, the magic of sports, and the beauty of small communities coming together to celebrate their rising stars. Images: Jamie Troughton / Dscribe Media

Family & Pets

“Shocked and amazed”: Neighbours raise over $50,000 for bullied boy

A couple from Texas has helped raise over $55,000 for their young neighbour who was being bullied. Their story began when young Shayden Walker knocked on the door of Brennan Ray and Angell Hammersmith, looking for friends. The conversation was captured on their home’s video doorbell system, as Walker asked if they knew any children between the ages of 11 and 12 because he “needs some friends really bad”. Walker, who approached their house wearing a Jaws t-shirt, explained that some neighbourhood kids had been bullying him. “I could hear the innocence and vulnerability in his voice,” Ray told DailyMail.com. “All I knew is that I wanted to help the kid.” The video has since been viewed on TikTok more than 66 million times, with TikTokers from across the world commenting that they hope he finds some “REAL friends soon” and saying “I have never wanted to hug a kid so bad in my life.” Ray and Hammersmith decided to start a GoFundMe page for Walker, asking people to “spread kindness for Shayden” and give what they can to help provide for the boy, while encouraging people to “come together and show him he's got some friends.” “We are raising money to help buy him a gaming system, school clothes and hopefully some amusement park tickets and anything else he may want or need,” the fundraising page reads. In just four days of the fundraising page being online, people from around the world have helped donate more than $55,000AUD to Shayden and his family, with the organisers saying they are “shocked and amazed” at people’s generosity. Many of the donations came with messages for Shayden, saying “You have a friend in me.” Walker's stepfather now says Shayden's a “totally different kid” than he was just last week, while the young boy said in a video posted to his father's TikTok page that “Y'all have touched my heart so much, it's just literally to the point where I want to cry.” The family have requested that the donations be turned off on the donations page, saying they are not seeking any money. Many people commented on Shayden’s message, praising his bravery and sending messages of support. One person wrote, “Shayden, you are a strong kid. No one deserves to be bullied or made fun of.” “You are incredibly brave to be putting yourself out there and actively looking for friends instead of staying in the house.” “I know you are young, but the best advice I can give you is that you do not need anyone's validation but your own to know your worth. If you love yourself, you will never be alone.” Image credits: GoFundMe

Family & Pets

Naomi Campbell secretly welcomes baby boy at 53

Naomi Campbell surprised fans overnight by announcing that she had secretly welcomed a baby boy. The 53-year-old model took to Instagram to share an adorable snap of her cradling the newborn while her two-year-old daughter holds both her mum and baby brother’s hand. "My little darling, know that you are cherished beyond measure and surrounded by love from the moment you graced us with your presence. A True Gift from God 🙏🏾, blessed ! Welcome Babyboy. 💙🍼” she wrote in the caption. She used the hashtag #mumoftwo alongside two hearts representing her babies, one red and one blue. “It’s never too late to become a mother 🙏🏾” she added. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CuFUy_YRDJH/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CuFUy_YRDJH/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Dr Naomi Campbell (@naomi)</a> </div> </blockquote> This is not the first time the model made headlines for her surprise baby reveal. In 2021 she welcomed her daughter at the age of 50 and announced the happy news in the same way. The model has kept the lives of her kids private as she hasn’t released details of her daughters name, and shares glimpses of what they look like here and there. In the 2021 post, Campbell was pictured gently holding her newborn daughter’s feet and gushed about how blessed she was to be “chosen” by her daughter. "So honoured to have this gentle soul in my life, there are no words to describe the lifelong bond that I now share with you, my angel. There is no greater love," she captioned the photo with her first born. Fans and celebrities alike have taken to the comment section to congratulate Campbell. “NAOMI!!! Congratulations!!” wrote American singer, Kelly Rowland. “Oh my goodness! Welcome!! Blessings upon blessings!” commented Avatar actress Zoe Saldana. “Congratulations Omi!! ✨✨” commented fashion icon, Donatella Versace. “Oh my! Already? I can’t believe a second blessing. How amazing!!” commented another fashion icon, Marc Jacobs. “Congrats sweet Naomi,” wrote one fan. “My heart swells with joy for you,” commented another. Image: Getty

Family & Pets

Name of Al Pacino's new baby boy revealed

Al Pacino has welcomed his fourth child at 83 years of age. A TMZ report revealed that the actor’s 29-year-old girlfriend, Noor Alfallah, recently gave birth to their first baby together, which was confirmed by Pacino's publicist, Stan Rosenfield, on Thursday. His publicist also confirmed that they have named the newborn "Roman". Although both parents are ecstatic to welcome their first child together, the official birth date has not yet been revealed. The couple were spotted grabbing dinner at the Sunset Tower Hotel in Los Angeles on Wednesday night with what appeared to be a baby seat in the back of the car, although it was unclear whether their newborn was occupying the seat at the time. The news came just weeks after a close friend of the actor revealed that <a href="https://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/family-pets/al-pacino-expecting-fourth-child-at-83" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alfallah was eight months pregnant</a> in a surprise announcement. The couple have been dating since early 2022. Pacino also shares a daughter, Julie, 33, with Jan Tarrant, and twins Olivia and Anton, 22, with Beverly D'Angelo. Images: Getty, Instagram

Family & Pets

How to beat the retirement blues

When people plan their retirement they don’t usually expect Post retiring depression (PRD). This kind of depression usually stems from dashed expectations, financial trouble or feeling lost and lonely. That’s why we’ve got four top tips to avoid PRD and enjoy your free time. 1. Plan it out Know what you want to do, not what you think you should be doing. Don’t hold back in indulging yourself, travelling the world, volunteering abroad – the temporary discomfort of not knowing is better than realising when it’s too late that you never completed your bucket list. 2. Routine A sudden lack of structure can become exhausting or at least unsettling. Schedule activities such as exercise, housework, errands, and social time. Then let the day flow from there. 3. Keep active There is a lot of research to show that the people who cope best with retirement are those who stay active and involved. This might include: <ul> <li>Developing an old hobby or starting a new one. </li> <li>Staying physically active, through walking, swimming, gym or sport. Make sure your exercise routine is appropriate for your physical capacities and limitations. </li> <li>Volunteering with a charity or church group. </li> <li>Working part-time. </li> <li>Studying a course.</li> </ul> 4. Stay in touch Loneliness and isolation can be easily avoided, so don’t fall into the trap of feeling alone. Make the effort to stay in contact with family and friends. Offer to babysit your grandchildren. Check out local community centres for upcoming activities you might enjoy. Even if you're not sure try something new, you might surprise yourself! Images: Getty

Retirement Life

"I fell for it!": Boys in blue crash gender reveal party

One Sydney couple have taken their friends and family by surprise with their high-stakes gender reveal, where the father-to-be was apparently put under arrest by two police officers. Mina Ibrahim revealed their elaborate prank with a video posted to his TikTok account. Mina’s video begins with footage of the moment of his ‘arrest’, before it cuts to the TikToker at a later date, explaining that “that’s me being arrested at my baby’s gender reveal.” He goes on to share the full video, and a promise that the ending will answer any questions his viewers may have. In the clip, the parents-to-be can be seen talking to two uniformed NSW ‘police officers’, guests all around them, with Mina asking for onlookers to get their phones out. He then pushes one of the officers, telling them to leave, and both grab him before attempting to handcuff him, while his pregnant partner attempts to intervene. As family members rush to assist, one of the officers calls for everyone to calm down, then delivers news that takes them all by surprise - and delight - by telling them, “it’s a baby girl.” “So it was the cops who announced to everyone that I was having a baby girl,” present-day Mina informed his audience, before noting that there was a fake balloon inside to throw their guests off the surprise scent. <div class="mol-embed" style="margin: 0px 0px 8px; padding: 0px; min-height: 1px; letter-spacing: -0.16px; text-align: center; font-family: graphik, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"> <blockquote id="v34606683345148116" class="tiktok-embed" style="margin: 18px auto; padding: 0px; min-height: 1px; letter-spacing: -0.01em; position: relative; width: 605px; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.15; overflow: hidden; text-size-adjust: 100%; font-family: proxima-regular, PingFangSC, sans-serif; max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@mina.ibs/video/7232964823296773383" data-video-id="7232964823296773383" data-embed-from="oembed"><iframe style="letter-spacing: -0.01em; border-width: initial; border-style: none; width: 605px; height: 735px; display: block; visibility: unset; max-height: 735px;" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed/v2/7232964823296773383?lang=en-GB&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dailymail.co.uk%2Fnews%2Farticle-12082153%2FGender-reveal-party-prank-sees-cops-arrest-father-be.html&embedFrom=oembed" name="__tt_embed__v34606683345148116" sandbox="allow-popups allow-popups-to-escape-sandbox allow-scripts allow-top-navigation allow-same-origin"></iframe></blockquote> </div> The prank attracted thousands of views online, with many flocking to his comments section to share their congratulations with the parents-to-be. Others, while thrilled for them and their happy news, were open about their concern, having fallen for the trick right along with the couple’s loved ones. “I fell for it and I was worried for your wife!!!,” one confessed. “I was freaking out hahahah you got me”. “I was worried too haha … you scared me,” another said. “Omygosh! I was ready to sue them coppas with you!” came one response, “but congratsss! What a way to reveal!” One other simply wanted to know if the entire situation was even allowed, believing that impersonating the police may not be. And another had simply been suspicious from the very start, noting “Broooo the whole time I was like … something ain’t right! He’s not carrying his gun”. Images: TikTok

Family & Pets

Aussie author of "Puberty Blues" dies at 64

Gabrielle Carey, co-author of the iconic novel Puberty Blues, has passed away at 64. The news was reportedly broken by Carey’s old friend and co-writer Kathy Lette, who was the other half of the creative powerhouse that brought Puberty Blues to life. In a post to social media, Lette shared a throwback picture of the pair in their younger years, and wrote, “I’m deeply saddened by the tragic news about my old friend Gabrielle Carey. “I have such happy memories of our teenage years. They were halcyon, heady days full of love, laughter and adventure. “We made some mischief and broke some barriers by writing Puberty Blues – our raw, earthy take on the brutal treatment of young women in the Australian surfing scene which is sadly, still so relevant. “My heartfelt condolences to her family and friends.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> I’m deeply saddened by the tragic news about my old friend Gabrielle Carey. I have such happy memories of our teenage years. They were halcyon, heady days full of love, laughter and adventure. 1/2 🧵 <a href="https://t.co/2wZZiRf1hd">pic.twitter.com/2wZZiRf1hd</a> — Kathy Lette (@KathyLette) <a href="https://twitter.com/KathyLette/status/1654136967636959234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2023</a></blockquote> The groundbreaking book they penned together, which went on to be adapted as both a movie and a hit TV series, was a candid - then-controversial - story of two teenage girls growing up in Sydney’s Sutherland Shire. It pushed boundaries, captivated young audiences while tackling themes many did not expect for said target audience, and is regarded by many as being the first Australian teenage novel to be written by teens. From Puberty Blues, Carey went on to publish memoirs and nonfiction works, with another of her books - her 1984 Just Us, which covered her relationship with rapist and prisoner Terry Haley, who she married while he was imprisoned - also made into a telemovie in 1986. No suspicious circumstances surrounded her death, according to The Australian, though the tragic news comes just months after she wrote about her father’s suicide in The Sydney Morning Herald. At the time, Carey had revealed she was afraid of reaching 64, as that was when he too had passed on. “It was only decades later, when my father died from suicide on the very day he turned 64, that I became terrified of that number,” she wrote. “If I have inherited my father’s disposition for depression, did that mean I would also end up in an early grave? Carey’s early passing is one that has hit her friends and her fans hard, with many joining Lette in sharing their grief and their condolences on social media. “Farewell dear Gabrielle. You were a sister in the cause of mental illness, its impact & our children. I’m enriched for having known you,” one supporter wrote. “Thank you.” “Writer - Reader - Intellectual - Joycean (fanatical) - Elizabeth von Arnim devotee - Avid Gardener - Rose Petal Jam Maker - Football Follower - Kayaker - Yogi - Joker - Irrepressible Spirit - Hobbit - Underground Writer - My Friend,” friend and fellow writer Yumna Kassab wrote. “I will always miss you.” “So sorry for your loss,” one fan said in response to Lette’s tweet. “You have no idea how much as a girl growing up in a coastal town with a surfing scene I understood Puberty Blues. I saw it every day. You & Gabrielle laid it all bare & made girls stand up for themselves. Thank you”. “My deepest condolences Kathy,” another offered. “The two of you wrote something so treasured by Gen X girls. It was our ‘how to say no guide’. Our Teen handbook. But it still let us live our lives & learn as we went. RIP Gabrielle Carey.” Images: Facebook

News

Dalai Lama forced to apologise following bizarre footage of him and young boy

The Dalai Lama has apologised following the controversy surrounding him kissing a young Indian boy on the lips and asking him to “suck” his tongue. The exchange, which occurred at an event for India’s M3M Foundation in March 2023, has since gone viral on social media, with the spiritual leader’s office releasing a statement to address the situation. On behalf of the Dalai Lama, the statement reads he “wishes to apologise to the boy and his family, as well as his many friends across the world, for the hurt his words may have caused”. “His Holiness often teases people he meets in an innocent and playful way, even in public and before cameras,” the statement said, also saying he “regrets” the interaction. The leader of Tibetan Buddhism, Tenzin Gyatso, was hosting students and members of the foundation at his temple in Dharamshala, India, where he lives in exile. In the footage, the boy is seen approaching the microphone before asking, “Can I hug you?” His Holiness then responds, “OK, come” and ushers the boy onto the stage. The 87-year-old then motions to his cheeks and tells the child “first here” and the boy gives him a hug and a kiss. He holds the boy’s arm and turns to him, saying “then I think fine here also”, pointing to his lips. The Dalai Lama proceeded to grab the boy’s chin and kiss him on the mouth as the audience laughed. “And suck my tongue,” he tells the boy, sticking out his tongue. The two press their foreheads together and the boy pokes out his tongue briefly before stepping away as the spiritual leader gives him a playful slap on the chest and laughs. He can then be seen offering the boy spiritual advice, telling him to “look [to] those good human beings who create peace, happiness” and not “not follow those human beings who always kill other people”. The clip sparked outrage in India, with some describing the footage as “creepy” and “disgusting”, while his supporters insisted he was just “joking around”, local media reports. The clip has also gained a lot of traction on Spanish-language social media. “This video is scandalous,” Colombian journalist Vicky Dávila shared on Twitter. “The Dalai Lama kisses a boy who approaches him on the mouth. The attendees applaud and laugh instead of condemning this aberration.” In March, the official Twitter account for the Central Tibetan Administration shared a snippet of the second half of the interaction. Tibet.net wrote, “During his meeting with students and members of M3M Foundation at courtyard of Thekchen Choeling Tsuglakhang, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama advised a young Indian boy to look up to a good human being who always work for cultivating peace and happiness in the world,” The Dalai Lama made headlines back in 2019 following a sexism controversy after he said that if his successor were a woman, “she should be more attractive”. Following the sexism scandal, his office was forced to issue an apology, explaining that his “off-the-cuff remarks, which might be amusing in one cultural context, lose their humour in translation when brought into another”. In 2018 he made waves online after a remark he made on a trip to Sweden, suggesting that refugees should return to their homes and help rebuild their countries because “Europe belongs to Europeans.” Image credit: Twitter

News

Olympian makes surprise announcement of new baby boy!

Tom Daley and husband Dustin Lance Black have announced the news of their second child's arrival. The pair shared the news with the Times before taking to Instagram to reveal their son’s unique name, giving fans quite a surprise as they had not publicly revealed what they were expecting. Daley posted a picture of his now family of four and a sweet picture of him holding the newborn, paired with the caption, “🧡 PHOENIX ROSE BLACK-DALEY 🧡” "Our family has grown in the last week, we welcomed Phoenix to the world on 28/03/23 and he's just perfect 🧡 Robbie is loving being a BIG BRO! 👨‍👨‍👦‍👦” Friends and fans were quick to celebrate the couple’s new addition to the family in the comment section. Fellow Olympic diver Matty Lee wrote, “Can’t wait to meet him! Love you all ❤️” "Oh my god tom 😍💖 congrats angel!!!!” wrote social media star Holly H. Black also took to Instagram, posting a photo of the four of them, writing "And then there were four. Our second son, Phoenix Rose Black-Daley, arrived at 3:34 pm on March 28, 2023. ❤️" His comment section was also filled with excited friends and celebs wishing them well. “Congrats fellas!!!!” NSYNC singer Lance Bass wrote. “MAZEL TOV!!! ❤️🙌” TV presenter Andy Cohen said. The couple, who were married in 2017, welcomed their first child, five-year-old Robert Ray via surrogate in 2018. Young Phoenix isn’t the only newborn with an unusual name in the news at the moment, with proud mum <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/my-whole-heart-paris-hilton-shares-new-photos-of-baby-boy" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Paris Hilton announcing the birth of her first child</a>, a son with a name you won't forget. Image credit: Instagram

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Aussie author of "Puberty Blues" dies at 64

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Olympian makes surprise announcement of new baby boy!