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Score (96)
Luka Dončić Steps Up: Helps Restore Kobe And Gianna Mural With $5K Donation
A mural honoring Lakers legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna is set to be restored, thanks to a generous donation from the team's newest star, Luka Dončić. The artwork, located at 14th and Main streets in downtown Los Angeles, was vandalized with black and white paint. It originally depicted Bryant lovingly kissing his daughter on the cheek as she held a basketball. Dončić stepped up with a $5,000 contribution to the restoration effort. His name appeared on the GoFundMe donations list Tuesday, confirmed by his foundation. "Kobe is LA," Dončić expressed in a statement. "He and Gigi mean so much to this city, to the Lakers organization, and to me personally. I’m happy to do anything to help make sure he and his daughter are honored." The fundraiser had collected over $5,400 by midday, showing strong community support for restoring the tribute to the Hall of Fame player who won five NBA championships with the Lakers. A separate mural in Beverly Grove also features both Dončić and Bryant. This piece captures their first meeting during a Dallas Mavericks game in Los Angeles back in 2019. The tragic helicopter crash that claimed nine lives, including Kobe and Gianna's, on January 26, 2020, remains fresh in the memory of many Angelenos. As of now, police have not identified any suspects responsible for defacing the mural. With efforts underway to restore this cherished piece of art, it’s clear that Kobe’s legacy continues to inspire acts of kindness across Los Angeles.
Score (97)
Teen Lifts Dreams: Annie Heads to Peru for World Championships
Teen weightlifter Annie is gearing up for a major milestone as she prepares to represent Team GB Youth at the Youth World Championships in Peru. The 16-year-old has already arrived in Lima, ready to take on her biggest challenge yet. Annie began her weightlifting journey at just 11 years old and now trains four times a week, dedicating three hours per session. Balancing her passion with academics, she's also preparing for her A-Levels. "School gives me time off when I have my free periods so I can come and train, which is good," she said. Her daily routine revolves around training, studying, and resting. "I wake up in the morning, do my squats, go to school and then train, come home and eat my dinner," Annie explained. Despite the tight schedule leading up to competitions, she finds solace in the gym. "It just makes your brain really quiet," she said. At the upcoming championships starting April 30th, Annie will compete against young athletes from 19 countries in the 59kg category. Her coach, Luke Stopford, praised Annie's dedication since picking up a barbell at age 11. "She progressed really quickly... she just took to it like a duck takes to water," he said proudly. As excitement builds for the event in Lima, Annie shared her hopes: "Hopefully I'll have a good comp... I just want to have a good time and meet new people."
Score (97)
When World's Tallest Dog Met The Shortest: A Pawsitively Adorable Encounter
When Pearl the Chihuahua and Reggie the Great Dane met in Idaho, it was a meeting of extremes. Pearl, standing at just 3.6 inches tall, is recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's shortest living dog. In stark contrast, Reggie towers over her at 3 feet, 4 inches, holding the title of the world's tallest dog. Pearl and her owner, Vanesa Semler, traveled from Florida to meet Reggie and his owner, Sam Johnson Reiss. Initially cautious, Pearl stayed in Semler's arms while Reggie gently sniffed her before they settled on a sofa together. Once comfortable with each other’s presence, the unlikely pair explored their surroundings side by side. Photos captured their charming size disparity—Reggie reaching kitchen counter heights while Pearl could fit inside his food bowl. Johnson Reiss anticipated Reggie's gentle nature around Pearl. "He's very, very cautious and aware," they said. "I anticipate that he will be really good with her." Semler shared similar expectations for Pearl's behavior. "I think she has no idea she is a small dog," she said. "Normally she's really playful with bigger dogs." Despite her tiny stature—comparable to a dollar bill—Pearl enjoys wearing clothes and even picks out outfits based on her mood each day. Reggie may appear regal due to his size but is described by Johnson Reiss as "just a big baby." They added that he is "super playful" and "very vocal." The meeting between these two record-holding canines proved that friendship knows no bounds—or sizes.
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Score (97)
Globetrotting Duo Shares Their Favorite Destinations After Visiting 197 Countries
For Hudson and Emily Crider, a couple from Pennsylvania, the world has truly been their oyster. Over eight years, they have journeyed to 197 countries, missing only Sudan due to its humanitarian crisis. Their travels began with a tour of all 50 U.S. states and culminated in a relaxing visit to the Bahamas as they prepare for parenthood. "When we started traveling, we never planned to travel to every country," Hudson said. "We just wanted to see more of the world, experience different cultures." The Criders shared highlights from their global adventure with Fox News Digital. They were particularly moved by the kindness they encountered worldwide. "Even though cultures can vary widely … a smile transcends all languages," Hudson noted. Among less-visited destinations, Uzbekistan stood out for its rich culture and hospitality. "Before we even crossed the border... someone had invited us to their home," Hudson recalled. Emily was captivated by Namibia's landscapes and found Thailand's budget-friendly beauty unforgettable during their seven-month stay there. Food played a significant role in their travels, with Switzerland’s cheese fondue leaving a lasting impression on Emily. Meanwhile, Hudson favored Vietnamese and Thai cuisines. Wildlife encounters also marked their journey; Kenya offered memorable safaris while swimming with humpback whales in Tonga left Emily feeling awestruck. For aspiring travelers, the Criders advise setting low expectations for an enriching experience regardless of outcomes. As Emily reflected on her husband’s words: "Think of the stories you want to tell some day and then go out and live them.
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Disney Magic: Make-A-Wish Transforms 48 Kids Into Princesses For Two-Day Celebration
Magic filled the air at Disneyland this week as Make-A-Wish kids experienced a day of dreams come true. In front of Sleeping Beauty Castle, children with critical illnesses were treated to a special Make-A-Wish Moment, while over at Walt Disney World Resort, the Once Upon A Wish Party unfolded in spectacular fashion. "As the largest wish-granter for Make-A-Wish, Disney grants a wish every hour of every day," said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences. "It’s a special privilege to help families make joyful new memories when they need it most." The two-day Once Upon A Wish Party was crafted by Cast Members to offer families an enchanting experience. Nearly 50 princess wishes came alive for children like 4-year-old Cora from Arizona, who sang “Let It Go” with Anna and Elsa; 6-year-old Bailey from California, who dressed up as Rapunzel; and 7-year-old Debora from Massachusetts, who received a Disney Princess makeover. Throughout the event, children enjoyed more than 55 character greetings and interactive experiences themed around beloved stories like Frozen and Moana. Patrick Tenney, father of one wish kid, expressed his gratitude: "With this experience that Make-A-Wish and Disney allow us...it’s so wonderful for all the kids." The festivities culminated in the Royal Ball, where nearly every Disney Princess attended. Before midnight struck, wish kids were crowned as Disney Royalty. Leslie Motter, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish America, said: "It’s clear from the level of detail...that hundreds of Disney WishMakers poured their hearts into the Once Upon A Wish Party." This event marked the beginning of Disney's Week of Wishes—a testament to their nearly 45-year partnership with Make-A-Wish that has granted over 165,000 wishes.
Score (98)
Rare Leopard Cubs Just Made Their Adorable Debut at a Wildlife Park
Two Amur leopard cubs have made their debut at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, marking a significant milestone for the endangered species. Born to 13-year-old Kristen last week, these cubs are only the second and third of their kind born globally this year. Dr. Charlotte MacDonald, the park's animal director, emphasized the importance of these births as "symbols of hope for the species." The cubs will remain indoors for their first two months under constant supervision to ensure their well-being. Kristen and her mate, 14-year-old Drake, were introduced as part of an international breeding program aimed at conserving Amur leopards. Their previous offspring, Auckley, was born in June 2023 and was the only surviving cub in Europe that year. "Kristen is proving again to be a great mom," Dr. MacDonald noted. The newborns weighed between 4.4 lbs (2 kg) and 6.6 lbs (3 kg) at birth. Visitors can look forward to seeing the cubs via live camera feeds in Leopard Heights' nursery reserves—a quiet area designed for new arrivals. Originally from the Czech Republic, Kristen joined Yorkshire Wildlife Park in 2022 and has had three previous litters over her lifetime. According to Zoological Information Management System data, there have been only six other Amur leopard births worldwide in the past year. "It's extremely exciting to see our efforts to help save these beautiful creatures come to fruition," Dr. MacDonald said. With fewer than 100 Amur leopards left in the wild across Russia and China, each new birth is a step toward preserving this remarkable species known for its speed and agility.
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This is America's First 'National Park City': 70 Parks & 35 Miles of Trails
Chattanooga, Tennessee, has emerged as a beacon of environmental transformation, earning the title of America's first "National Park City." Once notorious for its pollution in 1969 due to unregulated emissions from railroads and factories, this city at the Appalachian foothills has undergone a remarkable green makeover. In April, Chattanooga was recognized by the National Park City Foundation, a U.K.-based nonprofit that promotes urban-nature integration. This accolade is not linked to the National Park Service but celebrates cities reimagining urban design to harmonize with nature. The journey to this recognition began two years ago but reflects decades of dedication. Since the 1970s, Chattanooga has implemented legislative and voluntary measures to restore its environment. The result is a city that feels intertwined with nature rather than imposed upon it. “The movement was a grassroots triumph, sparked by community passion and collaboration,” said Hannah Hammon, public relations manager at Visit Chattanooga. “Starting in 2023, residents, nonprofits, businesses, and city leaders rallied around a shared vision of Chattanooga as a 'city in a park.'" Joining London and Adelaide as the third National Park City globally, Chattanooga hopes to inspire other cities. Hammon emphasized that vibrant urban life can coexist with natural beauty through community-led efforts and sustainable practices. For those seeking an urban escape into nature's embrace, Chattanooga offers over 70 parks and 35 miles of trails. Highlights include Stringer’s Ridge for skyline views and the Tennessee Riverwalk threading through downtown. Visitors can explore Bluff View Art District or ride up Lookout Mountain for panoramic vistas.
Score (96)
Jewel's 'Lullaby Club' Looks To Soothe Stress And Anxiety Away in May
Jewel, the acclaimed singer-songwriter, has long been a champion for mental health awareness. For over two decades, she has candidly shared her own experiences with anxiety and how music has been a therapeutic outlet. Her 2009 album "Lullaby," filled with soothing melodies, continues to resonate with listeners seeking solace from stress. Recognizing its impact, Jewel is launching a four-week live series titled "Lullaby Club" during Mental Health Awareness Month. Partnering with the Inspiring Children Foundation, the series will culminate in an in-person event at Greenhouse in Las Vegas on May 25. "It's been an interesting thing to watch 'Lullaby' become this underground hit that people keep returning to for their mental health," Jewel told Upworthy. She noted that everyone from college students to executives finds comfort in her music. Jewel's journey began as a teenager when she experienced panic attacks without understanding what they were. Writing songs like "Angel Standing By" became her way of self-soothing. "I just started writing songs... it was sort of like making your own medicine," she said. The upcoming "Lullaby Sundays" will be streamed live every Sunday in May on Instagram and the Inspiring Children Foundation’s channels. The foundation focuses on children's mental health—a cause close to Jewel's heart. "I wanted to build new habits... we found music really powerful because it can hack your nervous system," Jewel explained. She hopes participants will gain community connection and empowerment through these events. The livestream schedule includes listening parties and discussions on mental well-being, culminating in a community gathering in Las Vegas aimed at fostering conversations about emotional resilience and support.
Score (98)
This Town United to Move Its Historic Library Out of a Flood Zone—here's How They Did It
In the quiet town of Johnson, Vermont, a remarkable feat unfolded as the historic Johnson Public Library embarked on a journey to a safer location. Built in the early 1900s, this Georgian revival-style building has endured numerous floods over the years, with one particularly devastating event in July 2023 when nine feet of water inundated its walls. "Everyone did everything they could to move the books throughout the night," said Thomas Galinat, Johnson's town administrator. "And then once the water level got high enough, there was nothing more you could do." The idea to relocate the library had long been considered far-fetched. However, in early 2024, it became a reality. The city decided to physically move the library out of its flood zone—a decision driven by necessity and backed by community determination. "When the pipe dream that is so outrageous becomes the solution, it tells you how dire the situation is," Galinat remarked. With $1.6 million from a U.S. Department of Treasury grant and additional funding from Vermont's Department of Libraries secured last fall, moving day arrived on April 26. A team of construction workers and volunteers worked through the night to transport the 119-ton building across town. Jessica Bickford, former library trustee, expressed optimism: "Let’s try this and see where it goes." As she donned her hard hat during the midnight move, she added with a smile: "And tonight, it’s going!" Now nestled between Johnson Elementary School and Legion Field—free from flood risk—the library stands as a testament to community spirit and resilience. A sign painted by local youth sums up their achievement: “Library magic.”
Score (98)
This 14-Year-Old Just Pulled Off a Daring Rescue to Save a Man Twice His Size
When 14-year-old Oscar spotted a paddleboarder in distress at Saunton Sands in England, he didn't hesitate. The young surf lifesaver sprang into action to rescue Gavin Boden, 60, who had been struck on the head by his board and left temporarily paralyzed in the churning sea. Oscar paddled out alone, managing to pull Boden onto his board and signal for help. For about 30 minutes, he kept Boden afloat until an RNLI inshore lifeboat arrived. "Oscar is my hero," said Boden, who was hospitalized until Monday. Despite being smaller than the man he was rescuing, Oscar's determination never wavered. "I saw someone had been injured on their board and just instinctively went over to them," Oscar explained. He added that although initially scared of not being able to lift Boden due to his size, he was driven by a strong will to help. The waves were relentless, flipping the board over multiple times. Yet Oscar's quick thinking led him further out to sea rather than risk heading back to shore through dangerous surf conditions. "I knew if I tried going in and a wave came... it could've just got so much worse," he said. Boden recalled calling for help three times before Oscar appeared beside him with reassuring words: "I'm here." As they waited for rescue, Oscar calmed Boden down while signaling for assistance from his father Danny and coach Neil Phillips onshore. Phillips praised the teen’s actions as "textbook" lifesaving. Adrian Mayhew of Surf Lifesaving GB noted that such maturity in challenging conditions is "literally unheard of." Thanks to Oscar’s bravery and skillful response, what could have been a tragedy turned into a story of heroism on the high seas.
Score (97)
Pangolins Shine in Netflix's 'Kulu’s Journey,' Sparking Conservation Hopes
Kulu, an orphaned pangolin pup, is capturing hearts worldwide as the star of Pippa Erhlich’s new Netflix documentary, “Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey.” The film follows wildlife photographer Gareth Thomas as he rescues Kulu and nurtures a unique bond with the pup in South Africa. Critics have praised the documentary as “captivating,” “sweet,” and “uplifting,” while it raises awareness about the plight of endangered pangolins, the most trafficked mammals globally. The Chester Zoo in England seized this opportunity to spotlight pangolin conservation by participating in Big Green Give. This campaign supports giant pangolins in Uganda through fundraising efforts. Following the documentary's release, the zoo held a weeklong fundraiser from April 22-29, matching all donations to benefit the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Naomi Matthews, Chester Zoo’s Africa biomonitoring manager, emphasized that pangolins are finally getting their due attention. "I was 21 when I first discovered what a pangolin was," Matthews told The Leader. Her passion for these unique creatures led her to spearhead the Big Green Give campaign. By its conclusion on April 29, the campaign surpassed its £16,000 target by raising £17,190 (approximately $23,000). These funds will support Chester Zoo’s East African Conservation Action Plan by gathering data on giant pangolins and recruiting three new team members to engage local communities and academic institutions. While this fundraiser has ended, Matthews hopes that increased media attention will continue to drive conservation efforts for these remarkable animals. "I think it’s time for pangolins," she said.