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Score (94)
A Man Found a Roadside Tree That Looks Like a T-Rex
A man in Minehead, Somerset, spotted a tree that resembles a T-Rex dinosaur with tiny bushy arms hanging over a road. Keith Hunt, who runs "Our Precious Earth," noticed the dino-shaped foliage and decided to share it on social media to make people smile on a Monday morning. He believes the wind must have moved the branches into this unique shape. The sighting has brought joy to many online viewers and sparked conversations about nature's playful surprises.
Score (96)
Marathon Dad's Viral Run Raises Spirits And Funds, Smashes Target By Miles
A runner's marathon journey has turned into a viral sensation, thanks to a little help from his son and the power of social media. Darren Ryan, 56, from Great Brickhill, England, is training for the London Marathon while raising funds for Willen Hospice in Milton Keynes. His fundraising efforts took an unexpected turn when his 22-year-old son, Olly, posted a video of him running around their village wearing a T-shirt with a QR code for donations. Olly explained to BBC Three Counties Radio that he decided to share his father's mission online after seeing little response in person. "Dad created this T-shirt and went out four times a week around the village," Olly said. "One frosty morning, I thought 'You know what? This is actually really sweet - he's not had one person stop him,' so I filmed him and shared it online." The video quickly gained traction, amassing over 2 million views. Donations poured in from across the globe, skyrocketing Darren's fundraising total from £620 to an impressive £16,000—far surpassing his original target of £2,500—with weeks still left before race day. Darren expressed amazement at the global support: "It's phenomenal. People are commenting—not just giving money—they're saying how wonderful this is." He noted that social media has shown its positive side through this experience. Willen Hospice emphasized the importance of local supporters like Darren and Callum Ryan in helping raise necessary funds for their services. As demand grows for more updates on Darren's journey, Olly promises additional videos documenting their progress leading up to the marathon.
Score (96)
Humans Just Orbited Earth’s Poles for the First Time in History
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched Monday night, propelling four amateur astronauts on a groundbreaking journey around Earth’s poles. This mission marks the first time a crew has ventured into polar orbit, offering new perspectives of our planet's icy regions. SpaceX shared a video from the Dragon crew vehicle, highlighting stunning views from the Fram2 mission. "First views of Earth’s polar regions from Dragon," the company posted on X. The four-person crew will spend three to five days conducting research in this unique orbit. Fram2, named after the historic ship that explored both Earth's Arctic and Antarctic regions, lifted off March 31 at 9:46 p.m. ET from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission features first-time space travelers aboard Dragon Resilience, previously used for the first commercial spacewalk by Polaris Dawn last year. Leading the mission is Chun Wang, a crypto billionaire and founder of Bitcoin mining companies f2pool and stakefish. Joining him are Norwegian cinematographer Jannicke Mikkelsen, Australian polar adventurer Eric Philips, and German robotics researcher Rabea Rogge. The spacecraft orbits at an altitude of approximately 265 to 280 miles with an inclination between 60 to 90 degrees to the equator—a challenging path due to high radiation levels and energy demands. The astronauts will conduct 22 studies aimed at enhancing human health in space and preparing for long-duration missions. Experiments include taking the first X-ray in space, studying exercise effects on muscle mass, and growing mushrooms in microgravity. Upon return, they will exit without additional assistance to assess post-mission capabilities. From their vantage point, they also hope to observe STEVE (Strong Thermal Emission Velocity Enhancement), known for its vibrant sky displays.
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Score (97)
Scientists Find Fast Track to Rare Metal Recovery: Paves the Way for Eco-Friendly Future
A groundbreaking recycling method developed by researchers in China promises to revolutionize the way we handle waste from lithium-ion batteries, according to a report by the Independent. These batteries, which power everything from smartphones to electric vehicles, are made with rare metals like lithium, nickel, cobalt and manganese. Traditionally, mining these materials has caused significant environmental harm. The new study outlines a process that recovers nearly 100 percent of these valuable metals in just 15 minutes. Researchers from Central South University in Changsha, Guizhou Normal University, and the National Engineering Research Center of Advanced Energy Storage Materials have published their findings on this innovative technique. The process begins with using tiny batteries to break down the metals within spent batteries. Glycine, an environmentally friendly amino acid, is then used for extraction—offering a safer alternative to previous chemical methods. The results are impressive: 99.99 percent of lithium, 96.8 percent of nickel, 92.35 percent of cobalt, and 90.59 percent of manganese can be recovered. This advancement could significantly reduce the environmental impact associated with electric vehicles (EVs), which rely heavily on these rechargeable technologies. By utilizing recycled materials for battery production and ensuring they can be recycled again at the end of their life cycle, EVs could become more cost-effective and eco-friendly. The researchers believe this method will pave the way for new opportunities in clean energy technology. "This green and efficient strategy in neutral solution environment opens a new pathway to realise the large-scale pollution-free recycling of spent batteries," they stated in their study.g vehicles and enhancing climate protection efforts worldwide.
Score (91)
Teen Outshines Einstein—She Just Joined Mensa Without Breaking a Sweat
Thirteen-year-old Sofia Kot Arcuri has achieved a remarkable feat by scoring the maximum possible on an IQ test, surpassing the scores of renowned intellectuals Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking. Her impressive score of 162 has earned her an invitation to join Mensa, the prestigious high-IQ society. Sofia's mother, Cecylia Kot Arcuri, expressed her pride in her daughter's achievement. "She just walks around throwing random facts at you," she said. Despite Sofia's exceptional intelligence, Cecylia describes her as a typical teenager who is "bubbly" and well-liked by her peers. Mensa, established over a century ago, provides a community for individuals with extraordinary intellects. The American chapter includes 50,000 members out of more than 150,000 worldwide across over 90 countries. Notable past members include Isaac Asimov and Hollywood legend Steve Martin. Remarkably, Sofia managed to ace the Mensa test without any preparation due to her busy school schedule. Her mother recalled Sofia’s excitement upon receiving her results this month. In addition to excelling academically—particularly in computer science—Sofia is also passionate about ballet and musical theater. She aspires to pursue a career in coding. Cecylia attributes some of Sofia’s talents to her grandfather Antoni Kot, a respected mathematician and educator in Poland who tutored students until his passing at age 86. "We believe Sofia inherited her love of math and coding from him," Cecylia said.
Score (97)
Army Vet Amputee Races to Victory, Defying Odds and Inspiring Others
A motorcycle accident that cost British Army veteran Paul Fullick his leg has unexpectedly steered him toward a new passion: car racing. The 43-year-old from Southampton, England, now competes with Team BRIT, the only competitive team of all-disabled racing drivers in the world. Fullick's journey to the racetrack began after a severe road accident in 2021 led to the amputation of his right leg. Despite this life-altering event, he quickly found himself behind the wheel of a test car just three weeks post-surgery. "I was desperate to go back to motorcycle racing," Fullick said. "But my surgeon wasn't keen for me to return." Instead, a friend introduced him to Team BRIT, and Fullick embraced this new opportunity with enthusiasm. "If you know how to look for the positives in the cards you're dealt, you can make things happen," he said. Before his accident, Fullick had served six years in the Army and suffered a brain injury from a diving incident in Egypt. His transition from motorcycles to cars was seamless; he now drives a modified McLaren 570S GT4 equipped with hand controls. As he prepares for his fourth season in the Britcar Endurance Championship at Silverstone, Fullick reflects on how far he's come. He even recalls an amusing moment when a race marshal mistakenly thought he'd lost his leg during a crash. Team BRIT aims high with aspirations of becoming the first all-disabled team to compete in France's prestigious Le Mans 24-hour endurance race. For Fullick, there's no looking back—only forward, toward new challenges and achievements on the track.
Score (97)
Granny Kicks It Up a Notch, Earns Taekwondo Belt at 83!
At 83, Ann Bigger is kicking her way into new territory. The grandmother from North Hykeham, England, recently earned her yellow striped belt in taekwondo after taking up the sport just this January. Practicing day and night under the guidance of her son, Mark Bigger, Ann has embraced martial arts' physical and mental challenges. "I hadn't realized what I was getting into," she admitted with a chuckle. "It's hands this way and feet that way." Despite initial nerves about her first grading, Ann found joy in mastering the coordination required for taekwondo. "It's good for the old brain," she said. Mark Bigger, who has been teaching at North Hykeham Tae Kwon Do Club for 15 years, introduced an afternoon class specifically for older adults. He emphasized that his mother received no special treatment during training. "She needs to up her game a bit," he joked. What started as a lighthearted endeavor quickly turned serious as Ann committed to training twice a week. Her dedication paid off not only in skills but also in health benefits; she's stronger and even reported lower blood pressure after visiting her doctor. "She's met new people and had such a good laugh while exceeding my expectations," Mark said proudly. "I'm really proud of her." Ann says she treasures the camaraderie with fellow students, enjoying coffee chats after classes.
Score (97)
Prison Pups Find Purpose: Dogs Reunite With Inmates, Serve New Friends
Joyful reunions unfolded at San Quentin State Prison as two Labradors, Wendel and Artemis, reconnected with the incarcerated men who helped raise them as service dogs. Chase Benoit and Jared Hansen were visibly moved when they saw the dogs they had trained for a year. It was also their first time meeting the dogs' new handlers: Robert Quigley, who is deaf, and Benjamin Carter, a veterinarian from Portland who uses a wheelchair. “Being in this program, it’s given me something that I think I’ve searched for my whole life,” said Benoit, serving 15 years-to-life for second-degree murder. “And that was meaningful purpose.” Quigley teared up watching Wendel's excitement upon seeing Benoit again. “He remembers me,” Benoit said through an interpreter. Quigley responded warmly about his bond with Wendel: “He’s very gentle and good with people.” Artemis has become an essential companion to Carter by performing tasks like opening doors and fetching items. Hansen expressed pride in seeing Artemis serve someone in the community: “It’s amazing!” The prison's puppy training program began in April 2023 with Canine Companions, a nonprofit providing free service dogs to people with disabilities. The program has grown to include 16 trainers and two dog sitters working with eight puppies. James Dern of Canine Companions noted that dogs trained in prison have a higher success rate due to the dedicated care they receive from incarcerated trainers. San Quentin's transformation into a rehabilitation-focused facility has allowed programs like this to flourish, bringing hope and purpose to those involved.
Score (97)
Boy Swings for the Fences with a New Phillies-Themed Prosthetic Arm
Philadelphia's sports scene has a new star fan, and he's only seven years old. Meet Jackson, a young Phillies enthusiast whose dedication to the team is as impressive as his new prosthetic arm adorned with the Phillies logo. Jackson was born without a left arm and had never used a prosthetic until recently. When Shriners Children's Hospital offered him the chance to design his first one, he chose to showcase his love for the Phillies. "I love my prosthetic, this is my baby," Jackson said. "I want to wear it everywhere I can." Since receiving his custom-made arm from Shriners Children’s Philadelphia, Jackson has been working with occupational therapist Jackie on tasks like holding paper and opening water bottles. "We play fun games like Connect 4 that help me with my arm control," he shared. Jackson's journey with Shriners began when he was just eight months old. His mother, Stephanie, took him there for care when he decided he was ready for a prosthetic. The hospital's Pediatric Orthotic and Prosthetic Services department crafted his new limb. His father expressed joy at seeing Jackson accomplish everyday tasks: "When I saw him open the water bottle for the first time, I cried." Jackson's passion for baseball extends beyond wearing team logos; he reenacts Phillies games in his backyard after school, complete with player announcements and batting stances. "I love going to the Phillies games and seeing them hit home runs," Jackson said. His enthusiasm captures what it means to be a true fan—one who celebrates every moment of the game with pure joy.
Score (96)
Young Girl's Pocket Petition Triumphs, Trousers Get A Fashionable Upgrade
Eight-year-old Georgia from Ipswich, England, has successfully championed a cause close to her heart: pockets in girls' school trousers. Frustrated by the lack of real pockets in her school attire, Georgia took matters into her own hands after noticing that boys' trousers had the practical feature she desired. "I thought it was unfair," Georgia said, recalling a shopping trip with her mother where she discovered the disparity. Determined to make a change, she penned a letter to Sainsbury's, the supermarket chain selling the trousers under its Tu brand, and rallied 56 classmates—boys included—to sign a petition supporting her cause. Sainsbury's spokesperson acknowledged the importance of customer feedback and shared Georgia's enthusiasm for offering diverse uniform styles. "Customer feedback is really important to us and we share Georgia's passion for offering a choice in style of school uniform," they stated. Georgia initially received a response from Sainsbury’s expressing agreement with her concerns but no immediate action. However, upon returning to the store this year, she found that girls' trousers now featured pockets—a small victory for practicality and equality. While Sainsbury’s did not confirm if Georgia’s efforts directly influenced their decision, it's clear that this young advocate made an impact. Her story serves as an inspiring reminder of how one voice can spark change.
Score (96)
Arrow Escape: This Goose is Flying Free After a Wild Recovery
A Canada goose named Wilson, who endured months with an arrow lodged in his back, is now soaring free. Released Sunday at Brennan Park field in Squamish, British Columbia, Wilson's flight to freedom was cheered on by a supportive crowd. The rescue effort began when local photographer Tim Cyr spotted the injured bird last year. Despite numerous attempts to capture Wilson using nets and blankets, the elusive goose evaded capture for seven months. "We tried lots of different ways," Cyr told CBC News. In October, Cyr launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised $3,300 for a net gun. However, it was Myles Lamont of TerraFauna Wildlife Consulting who ultimately captured Wilson using his own equipment. The goose was then taken to Dewdney Animal Hospital in Maple Ridge where veterinarian Dr. Adrian Walton removed the arrow and treated the wound. "There was a large hole left behind," Walton said. "The big fear was that it would become infected." After initial treatment, Wilson spent over two months recovering at MARS Wildlife Rescue on Vancouver Island. Volunteer Dylan Doucet described him as feisty: "He had more energy than average considering what he'd been through." Before Sunday's release, Dr. Walton gave Wilson a final checkup and declared him fit to fly. As Cyr opened the cage door, Wilson hesitated briefly before joining a nearby flock of geese. Reflecting on the journey, Walton expressed gratitude for witnessing this happy ending: "Being able to experience the good parts has been a huge plus for me." As Wilson rejoined his fellow geese, he seemed ready to share tales of survival with his new companions.