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Score (95)
Couple with Spina Bifida Adopts Baby Girl with Same Condition
Larry and Kelly Peterson, who met at a Spina Bifida camp as kids, recently celebrated their fourth wedding anniversary by adopting baby Hadley through an adoption agency. Despite initial doubts about their ability to adopt due to Kelly's disability, the couple never gave up on expanding their family. Now, they are not only learning how to parent from wheelchairs but also providing support for others with disabilities looking to adopt through their Facebook page.
Score (90)
Inside New Zealand's Quirky Cookie Tin Lottery That Shapes National Laws
In a unique tradition that blends procedural necessity with cultural charm, New Zealand's Parliament uses a decorative cookie tin to randomly select bills for debate. This quirky lottery ensures every legislator has the chance to advance a proposed law, regardless of its popularity. The ritual involves drawing numbered bingo tokens from the tin, which was purchased in the early 1990s by a Parliament staffer. David Wilson, Clerk of New Zealand’s House of Representatives, explained the process: “We ate the biscuits, got some bingo tokens numbered one through to 90... and that is the way that the random numbers are drawn now.” On Thursday, with three new slots available on Parliament’s agenda, Wilson oversaw the ballot in Parliament’s library. Staffers and lawmakers watched as tokens representing each bill were placed into the tin and drawn. The results were later emailed to spectators. This egalitarian approach contrasts with typical legislative processes, often influenced by political gatekeeping. Bills selected from this lottery have led to significant laws in New Zealand, including those legalizing marriage equality and voluntary euthanasia. Among those celebrating their selection this week were Arena Williams and Tim van de Molen. Williams aims to increase transparency around international money transfer fees—a measure she believes will benefit working families sending money abroad. Van de Molen's proposal seeks to prohibit the improper use or disposal of military decorations. “It’s a quirky part of our system that I think is typically Kiwi,” van de Molen said. “It’s a pretty basic sort of system, but she’ll be right. It does the job.”
Score (98)
From Collision to Connection: How a Car Accident Sparked an Unlikely Friendship
A minor car accident in September last year led to an unexpected friendship between Destiny Smith and 97-year-old Jim. The incident occurred when Jim rear-ended Smith's car as she was leaving church. Concerned for his well-being, Smith discovered that Jim had no insurance or driver's license and was struggling with daily life. Smith learned that Jim lived alone, without nearby family or support. "Who helps you?" she asked him, to which he replied, "Nobody." This response prompted Smith to take action. She reached out to her social media followers for advice on how to assist him. With the help of her followers, Smith arranged for county assistance and home care services for Jim. "He is now going to have aides," she said in a video update. "It's all gonna work out for Jim." Since then, Smith has become a regular presence in Jim's life, visiting often and celebrating milestones like his birthday together. Her efforts have been met with praise from her online community. "Both of you were definitely meant to cross paths," one follower commented. Another added, "You're his new granddaughter." Smith expressed gratitude for the connection: "Thanks to God we did! I was very determined to get him help."
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Score (97)
Meet The Most Distant Galaxy: JWST Peers 280 Million Years After Big Bang
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has once again pushed the boundaries of our understanding of the universe. The telescope has detected light from a galaxy that existed just 280 million years after the Big Bang, making it the most distant galaxy ever observed. Before JWST, astronomers lacked infrared telescopes with sufficiently large mirrors to detect such early galaxies. The Hubble Space Telescope, with its 2.4-meter mirror, could only identify one galaxy from the universe's first 500 million years. Meanwhile, the Spitzer Space Telescope had an even smaller mirror at 85 cm. The JWST's advanced technology and larger mirror have unveiled a previously hidden population of bright galaxies at redshifts greater than z=10. "This unexpected population has electrified the community and raised fundamental questions about galaxy formation in the first ≈ 500 Myrs," researchers noted in a recent paper. The newly discovered galaxy, named MoM-z14, was identified through the Mirage or Miracle survey designed to confirm high-redshift candidate galaxies. This discovery challenges previous expectations about finding galaxies at such high redshifts. Lead author Rohan Naidu from MIT Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research highlighted that MoM-z14 expands our observational frontier to just 280 million years post-Big Bang. The study also revealed that most of this galaxy's light comes from stars rather than an active galactic nucleus. Interestingly, MoM-z14 shares chemical similarities with ancient globular clusters attached to the Milky Way, suggesting a connection across cosmic time. As more ancient bright galaxies are found by JWST, researchers are uncovering links between their morphology and chemistry. While future missions like the Roman Space Telescope may reveal more such galaxies, for now, JWST continues to illuminate new paths in cosmic exploration.
Score (97)
Meet the Middle Schooler Who Aced Two State Tests with a Perfect Score
Keng-Kenneth Smith, a seventh grader at the Academy of Innovation in Vicksburg, Mississippi, has achieved what many students only dream of—perfect scores on both the English Language Arts and math sections of the MAAP State Exam. His impressive 699 scores in each subject were confirmed at the start of the school year, earning him accolades from teachers and family alike. This isn't Keng's first brush with academic excellence. As a fifth grader, he also scored a perfect 599 in math. Beyond academics, Keng shines as an all-around talent. He is part of the WCJH Little Blue Band and recently joined the WCJH Basketball Team. Outside school, he plays travel baseball and boasts two state championships and MVP titles across two states. During MAAP Exam Week last April, students across Vicksburg Warren School District took their assessments. On August 8, Keng’s math teacher, Mr. Ratliff, handed him his scores with pride: “There was only one perfect score in that math class, and that score belongs to Mr. Keng.” Beechwood Elementary Principal Mr. Adams confirmed his achievement: “Yes, he did in fact make a perfect score of 699 on Math and 699 on ELA.” A graduate of Beechwood Elementary’s G.A.T.E.S program, Keng finished sixth grade with numerous honors, including highest averages in core subjects and a Top Ten finish in chess. “Keng is a leader! We are truly proud of Keng and his many accomplishments at such a young age,” said his mother, Lowanda Smith.
Score (97)
61-Year-Old Defies Terminal Cancer Prognosis to Complete Her Third Great Run
Angela Summers, a resilient 61-year-old from Fallowfield, has defied the odds by completing her third Great Manchester Run after being diagnosed with incurable spine and lung cancer in 2021. Initially given just six months to live, Summers thought she would never tackle a 10K again. "Every time I go across that line, I just think, 'that's another year I've been here,'" she said. Summers' journey began shortly after the 2021 race when back pain revealed a spinal tumor—secondary cancer from her lungs. Doctors warned she might never walk again and gave her a grim prognosis of six to 18 months. But Summers embarked on intensive chemotherapy and started walking short distances with Nordic hiking poles. "It was freezing, it was painful, but it gave me something to work towards," she shared. In 2022, believing herself too ill for the run, her daughter Josie organized friends and family to participate in her honor. Inspired by their support, Summers joined them at the last minute and has participated every year since. Their running group now boasts over 30 members and raises funds for Maggie's cancer charity, which supported Summers through her diagnosis. Having undergone 36 rounds of chemotherapy with stable tumors allowing a break from treatment for the past year, Summers continues to train daily using sticks for support. "I can't run anymore; the pain's too much," she admitted. "But I can still walk. I take painkillers, lean on my poles, and get it done." Summers hopes her story inspires others facing serious illness: "Even if you're told the worst, never say never."
Score (98)
Lost to Time: The Astonishing Return of a Long-Forgotten Creature
A remarkable event has unfolded in southern Spain, sparking hope among conservationists. For the first time in over three decades, a bearded vulture chick has hatched in the wild in Andalusia, marking a significant milestone for wildlife conservation efforts. The bearded vulture, once absent from Andalusian skies since the 1980s, is making a gradual return thanks to dedicated efforts by scientists and local officials. In 2006, the Junta de Andalucía and the Gypaetus Foundation initiated a reintroduction program that has since released approximately 90 bearded vultures into their natural habitat. This recent hatching signifies nature's resilience and progress toward recovery. This chick's birth in the wild rather than in captivity underscores the species' slow but promising resurgence. According to Sur in English, there have been 16 chicks born recently due to initiatives like those at the Guadalentín Breeding Centre in Jaén. Here, experts nurture vultures before releasing them into the wild. Bearded vultures play a crucial ecological role as scavengers that primarily consume bones. By cleaning up animal remains, they help prevent disease spread and maintain ecosystem health. The return of these birds also benefits local communities by attracting birdwatchers and hikers, boosting tourism and supporting local businesses while fostering greater appreciation for natural spaces. Globally, similar conservation successes are emerging—bison returning to European grasslands and backyard gardens aiding pollinators' survival. "The breeding program in the wild is progressing favourably," reports Sur in English. "Nature works miracles and if human hands can contribute ... the result is much more than feasible." These achievements remind us that when we support nature's recovery, it reciprocates with renewed hope for our planet's future.
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Kermit the Frog's Surprising Graduation Speech: What He Told University of Maryland Grads
The University of Maryland's class of 2025 had a unique commencement speaker this year: Kermit the Frog. As graduates prepared to step into the world amid economic and political challenges, they received advice from the iconic Muppet. "As you prepare to take this big leap into real life, here's a little advice — if you're willing to listen to a frog," Kermit said. "Rather than jumping over someone to get what you want, consider reaching out your hand and taking the leap side by side, because life is better when we leap together." Kermit's connection to the university runs deep. Jim Henson, creator of the Muppets and a 1960 Maryland graduate, crafted Kermit from his mother's coat and Ping-Pong balls during his time as a home economics major. A bronze statue of Henson with Kermit is a beloved landmark on campus. The university announced in March that Kermit would be this year's commencement speaker. In a video introduction, he was described as an environmental advocate, a bestselling author, an international superstar and champion of creativity and kindness. University President Darryll J. Pines expressed excitement about Kermit's participation: "I am thrilled that our graduates and their families will experience the optimism and insight of the world-renowned Kermit the Frog at such a meaningful time in their lives." Kermit said his mission remains simple: "to sing and dance and make people happy."
Score (89)
NFL Coach's Grad Speech: The Four Words Every Graduate Needs to Hear
Dan Quinn, head coach of the Washington Commanders, delivered an inspiring commencement speech to Salisbury University's 100th graduating class on Thursday. Known for his motivational prowess on the field, Quinn shared insights from his own journey and encouraged graduates to embrace life's challenges with vigor. Quinn, who received an honorary doctorate alongside his wife Stacey, emphasized the importance of seizing opportunities and maintaining a positive mindset. Drawing from his experience working with a mental skills coach, he urged students to transform nerves into positive energy. "Embrace all of it," Quinn told the audience. "I want to be really clear about this: The entire world is open to you. My wish and my hope for every single one of you is to not let the world change you. You go and change the world." His speech echoed advice he often gives his players, wishing graduates both success and "some really hard-ass fights because that's where the growth is." He stressed that these challenges are where individuals discover their true potential. Quinn recounted how, after graduating from Salisbury where he played on the defensive line, he applied for 115 Division-I football jobs without landing a single interview. Despite setbacks, he maintained his belief in himself. "It may have changed my course, but I didn't let it change my belief," Quinn said. Concluding with a powerful message that resonated throughout the auditorium, Quinn left graduates with four memorable words: "Let it rip!" His call to action was met with enthusiastic applause as he exited the podium.
Score (97)
Diving Into Art: This 7-Mile Underwater Sculpture Park is Helping Save Coral Reefs
Miami Beach is set to become a beacon of hope for marine conservation with the introduction of The Reefline, a unique blend of art and environmental science. Just 600 feet offshore lies the Great Florida Reef, the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S., which has been declining since the 1980s due to threats like bleaching and disease. The Reefline aims to reverse this trend by combining public art installations with artificial reefs. This seven-mile underwater sculpture park will not only attract tourists but also provide shelter for marine life, aiding coral recovery. "Mother Nature is the ultimate artist," said Ximena Caminos, founder and artistic director of The Reefline. "What we’re doing is giving nature and amplifying that marine habitat." Colin Foord, a coral expert involved in the project, explained that sculptures will host climate-resilient corals grown in labs. “We are accelerating the development of a fully healthy coral reef by decades,” he said. Phase I includes Leandro Erlich's "Concrete Coral," featuring cars on the ocean floor as an emissions commentary, seeded with devices to plant baby corals. Another installation, Carlos Betancourt's "Miami Reef Star," will be visible from aircraft and act as a carbon sink. Future phases promise more awe-inspiring pieces like a blue whale heart sculpture and structures to prevent coastal erosion. Visitors can explore these installations through an “underwater art crawl,” experiencing Miami’s vibrant sea life firsthand. “The oceans are our heritage,” Caminos told The Guardian. “They need someone to stand up for them.” With its innovative approach, The Reefline hopes to inspire action for ocean preservation.
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How Humans Are Stepping Up to Save Amphibians from Climate Threats
On a damp March evening, John Bateman dons his boots and headlamp to embark on a mission through a wetland intersected by a busy road. His goal? To assist spring peepers, toads, salamanders, and newts in their annual migration across the pavement. These small creatures face significant challenges as they journey between habitats necessary for different life stages. Roads often stand in their way, posing deadly risks. Habitat loss due to development further complicates their survival, particularly affecting vernal pools—temporary springtime water bodies crucial for breeding. "Unfortunately, with urban sprawl and development, a lot of the forests are being cleared," said Bateman, an environmental conservation professor at Finger Lakes Community College. "Vernal pools are going to be buried and become new houses." Amphibian populations have been declining globally since the 1960s at nearly 4% annually in the U.S., according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Climate change exacerbates these declines as rising temperatures push species like Appalachian salamanders northward. Bateman isn't alone in his efforts. Margot Fass of A Frog House in Pittsford advocates for frogs by creating vernal pools with volunteers during Save the Frogs Day. She emphasizes chemical-free gardens: “One spray of pesticides can kill a frog within an hour.” The Genesee Land Trust also plays a role by preserving land like Cornwall Preserve near Lake Ontario, restoring wetlands that benefit both amphibians and birds. For Bateman, preserving these habitats is about more than conservation; it's about ensuring future generations experience nature's wonders firsthand. “I think that future generations are absolutely going to be at a loss not having those experiences,” he said.