Here's a roundup of news trending across the nation and world today.
What to know now:
1. Van Houten parole: Leslie Van Houten, who more than 45 years ago carried out orders from Charles Manson to kill a couple in one of the most gruesome murders in California history, has been approved for parole. Van Houten, now 66, convinced the state parole committee that she deserved a chance to live outside of prison after being a model inmate for nearly 50 years. "Your behavior in prison speaks for itself. Forty-six years and not a single serious rule violation," Commissioner Ali Zarrinnam told Van Houten. It was Van Houten's 20th parole hearing. The decision will be sent to California Gov. Jerry Brown who will make the final ruling on whether Van Houten is to be released.
2. Japan earthquake: At least nine people were killed and more than 800 injured when an earthquake hit Japan Thursday. The 6.2-magniture quake struck near Ueki. Dozens of strong aftershocks were felt after the initial quake. According to Japanese officials, 44,449 people have evacuated the area strongest hit by the quake.
3. Sunscreen fertility: Does sunscreen affect fertility in humans? Researchers at the University of Copenhagen think it might. Tests have found that ingredients that are commonly used in sunscreens to absorb ultraviolet light could affect male fertility by preventing sperm from functioning properly.
4. Missile test: North Korea has launched another missile and suffered another failure, according to officials in South Korea. While not yet verified, the missile launched Thursday is believed to have been a medium-range ballistic missile. The missile launch, which coincided with the birthday of North Korea's founding leader, Kim Il-sung, is the latest of several weapons tests by North Korea that has the world community concerned.
5. Democratic debates: The debate between Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton Thursday night started out on a contentious note and didn't let up from there. The two candidates for the Democratic nomination for president sparred over who has the better judgment, who supports which increase in the minimum wage, the transcripts of Clinton's speeches to Wall Street firms, and whether colleges should be tuition-free. (The answer given: "Damn right")
And one more
For "Game of Thrones" fans at a tech company called +rehabstudio, April 24 will be a good day. The company announced it will give employees a half-day off on that day so they can stay up late and watch the HBO show's season premiere the night before. The sixth season of the show premiere's Sunday at 9 p.m. in the United States, 2 a.m. in the United Kingdom. The company's UK employees won't be expected in to work until after noon.
In case you missed it
For that day you need to start a fire with a piece of paper, a Magic Marker and a bottle of water.
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