newsmakers

newsmakers

Prince Charles claims warlord as ancestor

LONDON

The truth is out: Prince Charles is related to Vlad the Impaler.

The heir to the British throne says he is related to Vlad the Impaler, the cruel 15th-century Romanian warlord who helped inspire Bram Stoker’s 1897 vampire novel “Dracula.”

He makes the comments on an upcoming TV show to promote his interest in protecting the forests of Romania’s Transylvania region.

Charles says genealogy shows he is related to Vlad, giving him a stake in the future of Romania. The prince long has worked to conserve the forests and has bought a home in the region.

Elton John lauds governor for stance

NEW YORK

Elton John says politics have divided the United States, but at his foundation’s annual benefit, he singled out one politician as an example for others to follow.

The legendary British singer hailed New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo at the 10th annual Enduring Vision gala for the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

John thanked Cuomo for “taking a stand in New York and making the dream of marriage equality a reality in the state.” The governor was seated in the audience.

In July, New York became the sixth state to recognize same-sex nuptials.

The benefit raised $2 million for John’s foundation.

Associated Press