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Score (98)
This Year's 'Survivor' Winner is Donating His Prize Money to Help Veterans
In Survivor history, there has never been a more selfless winner than Mike Gabler. The heart valve specialist from Kingwood, Tex. shocked viewers on Wednesday night when he revealed that he would be donating his entire $1 million prize to veterans in need. Gabler made the announcement during the Survivor after show, which was filmed immediately after he was named Sole Survivor. He explained that he wanted to help those who have served his country and are struggling with psychiatric problems or PTSD.
Score (95)
The Machine That Helped Win 7 Nobel Prizes Is Retiring—Here’s What’s Next
Brookhaven National Laboratory, a hub of scientific innovation on Long Island, is preparing for a significant transition in its pursuit of understanding the universe's fundamental forces. Known for its seven Nobel Prize-winning discoveries and over 70 years of pioneering research, Brookhaven is set to retire its Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC) after 25 years of operation. This decision paves the way for the Electron-Ion Collider (EIC), which aims to uncover the mysteries of the "glue" that holds visible matter together. In an interview with Scientific American, scientist Alex Jentsch explained the significance of RHIC's work: "The only way we can really understand what’s going on inside of the atom—or inside the nucleus—is by destroying it." The collider has allowed researchers to recreate conditions similar to those just after the Big Bang, providing insights into quark-gluon plasma—a state where protons and neutrons melt into their constituents. Jentsch noted that while RHIC has been instrumental in studying these phenomena, it’s time for new challenges. The EIC will offer a cleaner collision environment by using electrons instead of protons or ions. "You can actually take snapshots of nuclei," Jentsch said, highlighting how this approach will enhance our understanding of atomic structures. As Brookhaven transitions from RHIC to EIC, scientists are eager yet nostalgic. "It’s exciting—we’re ready for new physics—but it’s also bittersweet," Jentsch reflected on his 13-year tenure at STAR experiment control rooms filled with camaraderie and late-night snacks. With anticipation building around EIC's potential discoveries, Brookhaven continues its legacy as a cornerstone in unraveling cosmic secrets.
Score (98)
Metal Detectorist Honored For Unearthing History And Helping Hundreds
Darren Wiles, a dedicated metal detectorist from Bournemouth, has been recognized for his remarkable efforts in reuniting over 300 lost items with their owners. On Tuesday, he received the community award from the chair of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council. Wiles began metal detecting as a hobby in 2009, driven by his passion for history. "I love to help people and it's great to see their faces when you give things back," he said. His pastime quickly evolved into a public service that now garners daily requests for assistance. Despite working full-time at a software company, Wiles dedicates his evenings to searching for lost treasures. His finds range from Roman coins to modern-day essentials like rings, watches, mobile phones, hearing aids, and keys. "When people get the items back it's really emotional," he shared. One memorable recovery involved finding a ring for a 12-year-old girl. "It was not valuable but it was one she bought with her mum on one of her shopping trips, so for her it was really sentimental," Wiles explained. He emphasized that the true value lies in what these items mean to their owners. The council's Chairman Awards for 2025 honored individuals nominated by the Mayors of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole for their contributions to local communities. At the presentation event held at the civic center, Mayor of Bournemouth George Farquhar praised Wiles as an "exemplar of selfless skill" who brings joy and relief through his work. In recognition of his achievements after his 200th find, local artist Matthew Byrom created a mural of Wiles in Bournemouth—a fitting tribute to someone who has made such an impact on his community.
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Score (95)
Fork-Nosed Dogs May Hold Clues To Unlocking Human Genetic Mysteries
A unique breed of hunting dogs, the Turkish Pointer, may hold the key to understanding facial clefts in humans. Researchers have identified a genetic mutation responsible for the breed's distinctive split nose, which could shed light on similar conditions in people. An international team, including scientists from the National Institutes of Health and KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden, analyzed the genetics of around 2,000 dogs. They discovered several gene variants linked to facial structure and size, with one variant found specifically in Turkish Pointers. The mutation affects the PDFGRA gene, which plays a role in connecting the two halves of the face during embryonic development. "This indicates that the gene might be involved in some cases of human orofacial clefts," said Peter Savolainen, a canine geneticist at KTH. "While there are several genetic and environmental reasons behind orofacial clefts in humans, this study offers a clue to another factor." Published in Genome Research this March, these findings could help explain why facial clefts occur in about one out of every 700 births. Although often repairable through surgery today, untreated clefts can lead to feeding difficulties and an increased risk of ear infections. Turkish Pointers are primarily bred in Turkey and are known for their exceptional sense of smell. However, they remain rare, with only a few hundred believed to exist worldwide. Their limited population makes them valuable for scientific research into genetic diseases affecting both dogs and humans. "Studying very inbred dog breeds is an excellent tool for finding the genetic reason for many morphologic traits and diseases in humans," Savolainen noted.
Score (98)
Heroic Highway Halt: Fresno Woman Stops Traffic to Save This Stranded Dog
A woman halted traffic on California's Highway 41 Monday to rescue a dog in distress, demonstrating an extraordinary act of compassion. Nicole Campau-Rocha was driving southbound when she noticed a dog stranded amid the busy lanes. Without hesitation, she stopped her SUV in the fast lane and crossed three lanes to reach the frightened animal on the opposite side. In a rare display of patience and empathy, drivers waited without honking or showing frustration as Nicole secured the dog and placed him safely in her vehicle. The incident was captured on video by a commuter heading to work, and FOX26 News later identified Nicole as the rescuer. She revealed that this wasn't her first time saving animals and felt an immediate urge to help upon seeing the dog. Nicole described finding the dog covered in foxtails with a painfully tight collar. "When I went to pick him up, this poor guy, he had so many foxtails and you could see me jerk," she said. "A lady asked me 'oh my gosh did he bite you?' Noooo, he was the sweetest boy ever. But the foxtails were just awful." She expressed concern about delaying traffic but appreciated other drivers' support. "Everyone that was behind me and in the other two lanes, they were actually really cool," she said. "It worked out perfect." Following the rescue, Nicole contacted Fresno Humane Society on Airways for assistance, where the dog is now receiving care.
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3D-Printed Wheelchairs: A Game-Changer for Kids and Parents Alike
A New Orleans-based adaptive design lab is revolutionizing mobility for disabled children with the introduction of a fully 3D-printed wheelchair. MakeGood NOLA, founded by Noam Platt, has unveiled the Toddler Mobility Trainer (TMT), a modular wheelchair designed for children ages 2 to 8. "Everything from the body, to the wheels, to the tires, the seat, and even the straps, all were 3D printed on a regular Bambu Labs A1 machine," Platt said in a social media video. The TMT can be produced using any standard 3D printer, making it accessible for families worldwide. Once finalized, its design will be available as a free download. Platt emphasized that the wheelchair's modular design allows assembly without tools or glue. If damaged, users can reprint individual parts as needed. "As a wheelchair user I love everything about this," commented TikTok user @thisisharlie on Platt’s video. "Mine costs more than my car; I can’t imagine having to buy a new one every year or two as they outgrow it." Since its founding in 2021, MakeGood has delivered over 1,600 adaptive devices at no cost. The organization collaborates with individuals and therapists globally to create solutions tailored to diverse needs. “It’s an A+,” one parent told CBS News about an earlier TMT prototype. “It’s helped [my son] become more mobile.” Platt is finalizing tweaks to make the TMT widely available and hopes this innovation will enhance accessibility. “We think this sort of 3D printing and design is going to be huge for accessibility,” he said. Requests for free chairs are being accepted by MakeGood as they prepare for distribution.
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Secret Wartime Factory Under New Brighton Arcade Opens as Fascinating Museum
During World War II, the women of New Brighton's amusement arcade had a secret mission. Beneath the lively facade of ticket booths and snack stands, they were crafting millions of bullets and shell casings in an underground factory crucial to the war effort. This hidden chapter of history is set to be unveiled as a museum later this year, located beneath the original Art Deco arcade in Merseyside. The factory's significance was underscored when Dame Vera Lynn performed for these dedicated workers after a 1944 concert at Liverpool Empire. Local historian Cathy Roberts discovered that Nazi Germany remained oblivious to this covert operation. "With all the shells and fuel in there, if it had been hit it would have taken out most of New Brighton," she noted. The New Palace Amusement Centre opened just before Britain declared war on Germany in September 1939. Its owner, Whilma Howe "Will" Wilkie, quickly adapted to wartime needs by transforming century-old tunnels into a munitions factory. Women who once managed dodgem cars and shooting galleries now produced over 250,000 bullets weekly. In 1943, as U.S. forces prepared for the Allied invasion of Europe, Wilkie converted the arcade's ground floor into a base for American engineers and technicians. This area became US Ordnance depot O_616, assembling army vehicles shipped from overseas. Today, traces of this wartime legacy remain intact under David Wilkie’s management—Whilma’s grandson—and efforts are underway to honor these contributions with a museum opening on VE Day's 80th anniversary. "We always knew this place was important," said Roberts. "But over the years we have learned just how important it was.
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This Military Son Just Surprised His Mom At Her Graduation
A mom graduating with an associate degree in nursing received a surprise in the form of her active military son making a trip home to attend her graduation in West Lafayette, Indiana, in early May. The moment captured by Purdue Global shows Sebrina, the graduating mother, embracing her son Blane inside the graduation hall. “I had to pull some strings to get here… It’s been about nine months since I’ve seen my mom. After a month of not seeing me, she was sobbing. So, I can only imagine – it’s going to be something special,” Blane said in the video.
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No Toes, No Fingers, No Problem: This 85-Year-Old Is Still Climbing Strong
Armando Corvini, an 85-year-old climber, defies the odds as he scales a limestone cliff overlooking the Queanbeyan River. Despite losing his fingers and toes in a severe accident in the Himalayas, Corvini continues to pursue his passion for rock climbing. Corvini's journey began at 18 in the Dolomites near Trieste, Italy. "When I started climbing, I saw the light," he said. His skills were renowned; Brian Mattick of the Canberra Climbers Association noted that Corvini was "climbing the hardest routes of the day" back then. In 1966, Corvini moved to Australia and reignited his love for climbing upon discovering enthusiasts in the Blue Mountains. He later tackled peaks in New Zealand and summited Mount Pumori near Everest at age 49. However, a 1994 expedition on Ama Dablam turned disastrous when harsh conditions led to frostbite, costing him nine fingers and all his toes. "Ama Dablam was the hardest climb of my life," Corvini recalled. After an arduous recovery, he found new purpose by volunteering as a gym instructor for children with disabilities. Despite initial skepticism from students about his abilities due to his physical condition, Corvini proved himself adept at teaching climbing techniques. Now running an outdoor adventure business and having published a memoir of his experiences, Corvini finds joy in mentoring young climbers. Assistant guide Penelope Jones remarked on his impact: "Everyone loves Armando... He loves climbing and it's infectious."
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Ugandan Women Brew Success: Coffee Sisterhood is Empowering Female Farmers
In the lush hills of eastern Uganda, Meridah Nandudu is transforming the coffee industry by empowering women. Her vision for a "coffee sisterhood" is simple yet effective: pay women more for their beans. This strategy has encouraged more men to let their wives handle coffee sales. Nandudu's initiative has grown her business group from dozens to over 600 women since 2022. These women now make up about 75% of Bayaaya Specialty Coffee’s registered farmers in this region, known for its prized arabica beans. “Women have been so discouraged by coffee,” Nandudu explained. “When you look at (the) coffee value chain, women do the donkey work.” Yet, when it comes time to sell, men often take control of the profits. Uganda ranks among Africa’s top coffee producers, with exports reaching over $1.3 billion between September 2023 and August 2024. The country benefits as production declines in Brazil due to droughts. In Sironko district, where Nandudu grew up helping her mother tend coffee plants, domestic violence often spiked during harvest season as couples argued over earnings. “When (men) go and sell, they are not accountable,” she said. After earning a social sciences degree in 2015, funded by her father’s coffee earnings, Nandudu launched Bayaaya in 2018 to support female farmers. The company offers incentives like higher prices per kilogram and off-season bonuses. This approach encourages families to collaborate on spending decisions and allows women like Linet Gimono and Juliet Kwaga greater financial independence. As more Ugandan women enter the coffee business, change is brewing in Sironko—one cup at a time.
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Still Got It: Liam and Olivia Remain America’s Most Popular Baby Names
Liam and Olivia continue to charm parents across the United States, maintaining their status as the most popular baby names in 2024. For the eighth consecutive year, Liam has topped the list for boys, while Olivia has held the number one spot for girls for six years running. The Social Security Administration released this data just in time for Mother’s Day, based on applications for Social Security cards. Following Liam, Noah remains a favorite among boys' names, securing second place again. Other popular choices include Oliver, Theodore, James, Henry, Mateo, Elijah, Lucas, and William. For girls, Emma holds steady at number two after Olivia. Amelia, Charlotte, Mia, Sophia, Isabella, Evelyn, Ava and newcomer Sofia round out the top ten. Sophie Kihm of Nameberry notes a growing trend toward names with cross-cultural appeal. "A trend we're tracking is that Americans are more likely to choose heritage choices," Kihm said. She added that many parents want names that are easily understood worldwide due to increasingly diverse family backgrounds. The report also highlights a slight increase in birth rates with 3.61 million babies born in 2024 compared to 3.59 million last year. Social media influencers and TV shows continue to shape naming trends as well. Ailany emerged as a rising star among girls’ names while Truce made significant gains among boys’ names. For those curious about where their own name ranks or seeking inspiration for future bundles of joy, the full list is available on the Social Security website.