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Score (95)
Street Art is Transforming this Abandoned Italian Town Into a Viral Tourist Hotspot
In the heart of Italy's Puglia region, Stornara is defying the odds and breathing new life into its community. Once teetering on the brink of becoming a ghost town, Stornara now welcomes thousands of tourists each year, drawn by its vibrant street art scene. Local artist Lino Lombardi spearheaded this transformation when he launched Stramurales in 2017, an annual festival that invites artists from around the world to paint murals across the town. The initiative took off in 2018 with six murals and has since expanded to over 140 pieces that celebrate local culture and history. Themes for these artworks range from Stornara’s agricultural heritage to migration stories and are selected by resident votes. Stornara, like many small Italian towns, faced population decline as younger generations moved to urban areas for better opportunities. However, thanks to Stramurales, tourism revenue has surged by 25 percent since 2020. Eight new businesses have opened their doors, including restaurants and bed-and-breakfasts, providing a boost to the local economy. Antonio Maglione owns a café in Stornara and was considering closing before the festival revitalized his business. "Suddenly, there were loads of people turning up with cameras and guidebooks," he said. "The murals saved my business, but more than that, they saved our community." Rita Gensano returned to Stornara in 2017 after living in Turin for two decades. Initially disheartened by what she saw as a dying town, she is now thrilled with how it has transformed. “When I first returned it felt like a sacrifice,” Gensano explained. “But actually it has become something extraordinary which I have been fortunate to be a part of.” Stramurales has even caught the attention of other struggling towns looking for similar rejuvenation strategies. Lombardi reflects on this unexpected role: "Our community has painted itself back to life, one wall at a time," he said. “At first, people thought I was crazy, but I couldn’t just watch the town fade away.” This year's Stramurales will include artists from across Europe and is set to take place throughout July. As young families begin moving back into Stornara and its population starts growing again, it's clear that art can indeed inspire change, one mural at a time.
Score (96)
The 90-Second Rule: How a Simple Trick Can Transform Your Mood and Boost Happiness
In 2014, Mo Gawdat faced an unimaginable loss when his 21-year-old son, Ali, died due to medical negligence during a routine surgery. Overcome with grief and confusion, Gawdat began writing about happiness in honor of his son just 17 days after the tragedy. With over two decades of research into the science of happiness from both logical and philosophical perspectives, Gawdat developed techniques to address unhappiness. One method he advocates is the "90-second rule," which he discussed on the "High Performance" podcast on June 17. When confronted with something upsetting, he suggests allowing yourself to feel the emotion for exactly 90 seconds before choosing to redirect your focus elsewhere. This practice draws from insights by Harvard-trained neuroscientist Jill Bolte Taylor, who discovered that it takes only 90 seconds for stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline to dissipate. Gawdat explains that many people unknowingly renew their distress by replaying negative thoughts in their minds. Instead, after those initial 90 seconds pass, individuals can decide what action to take next. Everyday annoyances, such as being cut off in traffic, can be handled using this approach. Rather than dwelling on anger or frustration by recounting the incident repeatedly to others, one might instead relax with a favorite song or another positive activity. To further manage emotional responses, Gawdat proposes three questions: Is it true? Can I do something about it? Can I accept it and act despite its presence? He suggests dropping issues found untrue and addressing those that are actionable. When neither option is possible, he recommends adopting "committed acceptance," acknowledging the reality of the situation while moving forward. Building new habits around emotional resilience isn't easy. A study led by psychology researcher Phillippa Lally in 2009 found habit formation can take anywhere from 18 to 254 days depending on individual circumstances. Nevertheless, according to Gawdat, becoming aware of how you respond is a crucial step toward greater happiness and fulfillment. Speaking on Simon Sinek’s “A Bit of Optimism” podcast on June 24, he noted life doesn't cater specifically to anyone but instead presents situations for individuals to navigate based on their reactions and expectations.
Score (97)
Nostalgia Alert: Why 90s Football Figurines Are Sparking Joy and Connection in 2025
In Chelmsford, England, a group of 200 enthusiasts gathered at the Essex County Cricket Club to celebrate their shared passion: Big Heads. These figures, often called Bobbleheads, were produced by Corinthian between 1995 and 2011 and remain beloved among collectors despite the company's closure. The attendees, mostly men in their mid-30s and older, came from across the country for the first Corinthian Convention in nearly two decades. The event was part of the Essex Retro Football Show and marked the 30th anniversary of the debut of these collectible figures. For many present, this wasn't just about toys but reliving cherished childhood memories. David Cook, a marketing lecturer from Burton upon Trent, exemplifies this sentiment. His collection journey began with a Warren Barton figure and grew from there. "It just takes you back to those fond childhood memories," he says, highlighting how collecting offers a sense of control amidst life's uncertainties. Cook sees his collection as an investment but admits he'd never sell it. Craig Robinson from Scunthorpe never stopped collecting. He created the Corinthian Archive website and even authored a book on Big Heads titled "Football Crazy Corinthians Mad." With more than 10,000 figures in his collection, including unique master models like Niall Quinn's unreleased figure due to Sunderland's relegation, Robinson believes that helping others complete their collections is now his greatest joy. The COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role in reigniting interest in these collectibles. Dave Rule, a toy dealer and Corinthian specialist from Epsom in Surrey, noted that lockdowns prompted many to rediscover old collections stored away in lofts. As people had more time and disposable income during this period, they were eager to complete their sets. For some collectors like Blain Smith from Stockton, selling parts of their collection during the pandemic allowed them to reconnect with their nostalgia for the hobby. He remembers buying his first figure—England's Rob Jones—and creating games with his brother using these figures on an old Subbuteo pitch. At the convention auction hosted by Dave Rule, rare items fetched high prices; someone paid £300 for an ultra-rare Norwegian national team pack while another joked about selling a kidney due to their spending spree. As collectors exchanged stories and purchases discreetly hid them from spouses' knowledge—a tradition dating back to past conventions—the camaraderie was palpable. James Pomeroy's story adds another layer to this community spirit. Now an economist in London's banking sector, he reminisces about winning a personalized figure of himself at age 13 after triumphing at a Microstars World Club League game in 2003. This achievement remains one of his proudest moments. Advancements in technology have breathed new life into customized figures thanks largely due skilled painters like Andrew Flack, who repaints original pieces into iconic kits representing memorable moments for fans worldwide.
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Score (98)
The Unexpected Impact of a Prison Book Program on Inmate Lives
Maria Montalvo's eyes light up as she discusses her favorite authors. She loves works by Isabel Allende, Octavia Butler, Toni Morrison, Erika L. Sánchez, and John Grisham. For her, reading is a window to the world, offering insights into lives and places far removed from her own. "Reading makes you wiser," she says, adding that it transports your mind to places you can't physically visit. Montalvo isn't just any reader. She's part of Freedom Reads at the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility in New Jersey. This nonprofit organization has been promoting reading in U.S. prisons since 2020. The initiative aims to transform prison environments through literature. "Books change the prison climate; they change the way people think about themselves," says Montalvo. The idea for Freedom Reads came from Reginald Dwayne Betts. At 16, Betts was sentenced to nine years in prison for car theft, where he found solace in books and emerged as a poet and communicator. Books gave him perspective on life outside the cell walls. He later earned a law degree from Yale University and garnered prestigious fellowships before founding Freedom Reads in 2020 to bring books into prisons nationwide. Betts notes the scarcity of reading materials in prisons, often limited to a single library with restricted hours and access requirements. In response, he conceptualized the "Library of Freedom," a collection of 500 books designed for easy access within correctional facilities. The libraries are thoughtfully crafted with help from Mass Design architects and former inmates who build curved bookcases from maple, walnut, or cherry wood. These structures fit seamlessly into prison cells without obstructing visibility for guards while offering an aesthetic break from harsh prison architecture. Freedom Reads includes Spanish-language titles due to the significant Hispanic inmate population—over 46,000 according to federal data—ensuring broader accessibility and engagement. David Pérez coordinates these bilingual efforts: “We have a list of more than 100 books in Spanish.” Titles include "The House of Spirits" by Isabel Allende and "I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter" by Sánchez. Maria Montalvo serves a life sentence following her conviction for the deaths of her children in what she claimed was an accidental car fire—a tragic incident acknowledged by prosecutors as coming during emotional distress that spared her a death sentence. In prison, she's dedicated herself to understanding mass incarceration issues through literature; reading circles engage inmates with stories available in both English and Spanish versions for shared discussions. Efforts like Freedom Reads contribute positively outside too; research suggests prison-based education programs reduce recidivism by nearly fifteen percent while increasing employment chances post-release by almost seven percent. Despite installing nearly five hundred libraries across fifty adult and youth prisons throughout America—distributing around two hundred eighty thousand books—Betts believes much remains undone: “We’ve probably reached less than one percent...of the prisons.” Adding another dimension is their Inside Literary Prize judged entirely by incarcerated individuals; last year saw Imani Perry’s work recognized among numerous submissions evaluated across multiple states, including Puerto Rico.
Score (96)
From Fine Dining to the Savannah: Why This Photographer Is Now Capturing African Wildlife
Nathan Myhrvold, a man with many hats—author, chef, former Microsoft CTO, and photographer—has ventured into new territory with his first collection of safari photographs. Known for his detailed food photography, Myhrvold now captures the raw beauty of African wildlife. His images offer a vivid glimpse into animal life in one of the last bastions of untouched ecosystems. In an interview about this new direction, Myhrvold explained how wildlife has fascinated humans throughout history. "People have been fascinated with wildlife throughout human history," he said. He believes that seeing animals in their natural habitat helps people reconnect with nature and put their own lives into perspective. Africa's vast wilderness areas provide the perfect setting for this form of connection. Myhrvold’s transition from studio-based food photography to capturing unpredictable wildlife comes with its own set of challenges and surprises. In the studio, Myhrvold controls every aspect of a photograph—from lighting to timing. This control disappears in the wild, where he must rely on natural light and seize moments as they happen. "You’re working with natural light and subjects that don’t take direction very well," he noted. A key highlight in his current collection is a series of contrasting lion portraits. One image features a young male lion exuding confidence, while another showcases an older lion bearing battle scars from a recent fight. These images not only capture the majestic nature but also hint at the harsh realities faced by these creatures. Looking ahead, Myhrvold is working on an ambitious project to photograph every species of wild cat and dog worldwide—a task made more daunting by their elusive nature. Despite some species being hard to find, he's already completed 60 percent of this project. The endeavor keeps him exploring new places and habitats, which leads to unexpected discoveries even when specific species remain unseen.
Score (94)
Galapagos Tomatoes are Surprising Scientists by Rewinding Evolution in Real Time
Evolution might not always be a one-way street. New research from the University of California, Riverside, and the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel showcases a fresh example of this on the Galapagos Islands. Wild tomatoes there are seemingly retracing their evolutionary steps, adapting by reverting genetic changes made millions of years ago. The study focused on two species of tomatoes: Solanum cheesmaniae and Solanum galapagense. Researchers gathered 56 samples from different parts of the islands to analyze the alkaloids produced by these plants. Alkaloids are toxic chemicals that serve as a defense mechanism against predators. In an interesting twist, tomatoes on the eastern side of the islands produced alkaloids similar to those found in cultivated varieties worldwide. However, on the western side, researchers discovered an older form of alkaloid that aligns with those found in ancient relatives like eggplants. Adam Jozwiak, a molecular biochemist at UC Riverside, highlights the significance of this find. "It's not something we usually expect," he says. "But here it is, happening in real time, on a volcanic island." The team pinpointed a particular enzyme responsible for this production change and confirmed its ancient origins through lab tests and modeling. Genetic atavisms, where organisms revert to ancestral traits due to mutation, aren’t entirely unheard of. For instance, experiments have shown that chickens can be genetically modified to grow teeth like their distant ancestors. But what's remarkable about these Galapagos tomatoes is that entire populations exhibit this shift rather than isolated cases. The newer parts of the islands—formed less than half a million years ago—are more barren compared to other areas. It appears that environmental pressures might be pushing these plants back toward their evolutionary past. This discovery doesn’t just add another layer to our understanding of evolution; it may pave the way for advanced genetic engineering, too. Altering plant chemistry could lead to new medicines or crops with enhanced pest resistance and reduced toxicity. "If you change just a few amino acids, you can get a completely different molecule," explains Jozwiak. "That knowledge could help us engineer new medicines, design better pest resistance, or even make less toxic produce."
Score (97)
Unveiling the Past: Nebraska Town Opens World's Largest Time Capsule After 50 Years
Seward, Nebraska, recently marked an unusual anniversary. Residents gathered on the Fourth of July not only to celebrate the nation’s independence but also to revisit a piece of their local history—a time capsule sealed fifty years ago. Back in 1975, townsfolk packed away thousands of items including pet rocks, a Chevy Vega, and personal letters to loved ones. NBC News’ Maya Eaglin was there to witness these treasures on display and captured the emotional moments as people reconnected with artifacts from decades past. The town's decision to open the time capsule on such a significant day brought together generations who were eager to see what had been preserved for half a century. The contents were a snapshot of life in 1975. Pet rocks, which became an unexpected fad back then, served as a quirky reminder of simpler times. The Chevy Vega represented the automotive style and technology of its era. However, it was the letters that truly resonated with those present. Many attendees found themselves deeply moved by reading messages penned by long-gone relatives or their younger selves. This event was more than just a trip down memory lane for Seward’s residents; it sparked conversations about how much has changed over the decades and what remains constant in human nature. The gathering reaffirmed community bonds and highlighted shared histories that often lay dormant until such occasions bring them back into focus. As residents looked at these relics from another era, they reflected on how far both technology and society have come since 1975. Yet amidst all this change, the fundamental human connection—evident through personal notes and nostalgic items—remained unchanged. The celebration ended with discussions about what might go into a new time capsule for future generations to explore in another fifty years. As one resident remarked amid laughter and tears, “It’s amazing what we choose to remember—and what surprises us when we look back.”
Score (97)
Meet The Entrepreneur Honored By Royalty For Revolutionizing Braille Access
Brandon Hulcoop, a blind entrepreneur from Devon, is feeling like royalty after being honored by King Charles himself. The 23-year-old from Plymouth was awarded the NatWest/King’s Trust Enterprise award at a Buckingham Palace reception. Brandon shared his excitement with the BBC, describing the recognition as feeling like "a lion raised its head and roared on his chest." Brandon's success story began at his mum's kitchen table, where he started All Things Dotty, a business that creates braille greetings cards. His journey was sparked by his personal frustration with not being able to read birthday and Christmas cards. “I got frustrated... people would get me birthday and Christmas cards and I couldn't read them,” he recalled. His determination led him to find a solution: tactile artwork in the form of braille cards. What started as "big A4 things folded in half" has grown into a flourishing business offering personalized braille greetings cards, coloring books, artwork, menus, and even braille tuition. The journey wasn't easy. Brandon faced unemployment for an extended period until he reached out to the job center for assistance. All he needed was one piece of equipment to kickstart his venture. With the help of an advisor from the King's Trust (formerly known as the Prince’s Trust), he managed to set up his business. This support opened new opportunities for visually impaired individuals who can now "see with their fingers," according to Brandon. He emphasizes that having access to tools like braille menus promotes independence for people with visual impairments. Brandon reflects on how far he has come since starting out five years ago. He’s proud of completing a business diploma at a college designed for visually impaired students and now operates from an office instead of home. Mentor Mike Hogan praises Brandon’s resilience. “If he comes up against an obstacle,” Hogan says, “he will always try to find ways around it.” He describes Brandon as someone who treats his disability as an ability rather than a setback. Brandon hopes to raise awareness about the significance of braille in fostering inclusivity and accessibility. Thanking supporters in Plymouth who backed him during the early days of his venture, he acknowledges that continued support is invaluable.
Score (98)
Schoolboys Become Unexpected Heroes in a Dramatic Canoe Rescue
A group of quick-thinking students from Claires Court School in the UK are being celebrated as heroes after they saved a man's life during a school canoeing trip. The six Grade 9 students were on a Duke of Edinburgh expedition near Wallingford on June 30 when they heard cries for help from a capsized canoeist. The situation was serious. The man had drifted dangerously beneath a raised jetty and was struggling to keep his head above water. Two members of the group rushed to his aid, helping him stay afloat while others notified nearby support staff. James Wragg, the head of outdoor education at the independent school, commended the boys' swift action, stating they "immediately rushed to his aid" and promptly radioed for assistance. In their statement following the rescue, the school praised these students for their bravery and quick thinking, calling them "local heroes." The two boys who first reached the scene showed remarkable composure under pressure. They improvised a stirrup out of available materials, which allowed the trapped man to keep his head above water until help arrived. Teaching staff overseeing the Duke of Edinburgh trip soon arrived at the scene and pulled the man from the water. He had been stranded for 25 minutes with his foot trapped under his boat. Mr. Wragg remarked that the boys arrived "just in time," undoubtedly saving this man's life. After this dramatic incident, all students involved continued with their expedition and successfully completed their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award. The school noted that this accomplishment demonstrated not only their resilience but also reflected well on the values instilled by such programs. To honor their efforts, Claires Court School gave outstanding achievement awards to all those involved in alerting staff and aiding in communication during the rescue operation.
Score (97)
Plastic Bag Bans Reveal Unexpected Environmental Benefits, Study Finds
Plastic bag bans have been a hot topic across the United States for years, with many cities and states adopting these measures to combat plastic pollution. But a recent study suggests that there might be an even more effective way to tackle the issue: taxing or charging fees for plastic bags. For those unfamiliar, plastic waste is a significant environmental problem. It pollutes ecosystems, contaminates water and soil, and endangers wildlife and human health. In response, environmental activists have pressured local governments to pass legislation targeting this growing concern. Plastic bag bans are one of the most common solutions enacted so far. However, according to editor Bianca Lopez in a new study, "Although less common, taxes or fees on plastic bags may be even more effective than bans." This is due to the impact of people switching to alternatives like paper or reusable bags when faced with additional costs. Researchers examined hundreds of state and local plastic bag policies in place from 2017 to 2023. They compared this data with observations from over 45,000 shoreline cleanups conducted by citizen scientists. The results were telling. Areas that implemented both full bans and fees saw a reduction of 25 to 47 percent in plastic bags collected during cleanups compared to places without such policies. There's another positive side effect: these measures can relieve pressure on local wildlife populations. The researchers found a potential "37 percent reduction in the presence of entangled animals" in regions where plastic bag policies exist. Entanglement poses serious risks to marine life, including habitat destruction and starvation. According to Clean Water Action, at least 267 marine species suffer from plastic pollution. This includes about 86 percent of sea turtle species and 44 percent of seabird species. Reducing plastic waste through bans or fees could lead to healthier ecosystems overall. The debate continues on whether states should have the authority to ban certain plastic items from businesses entirely. Whatever your stance, it's clear that addressing plastic waste is essential for protecting our environment and its inhabitants. As researchers explore different approaches, it’s worth noting that combining strategies might yield the best results in reducing pollution effectively.
Score (97)
His Decade-Long Photography Project is Revealing Hidden Stories of a Fishing Town
Pete Robinson has spent nearly a decade capturing the essence of North Shields’ fishing community through his camera lens. Since 2015, he has taken about 10,000 images of the town’s fishermen, hoping to preserve what he calls their "living history" before it fades away. "When they disappear over the horizon, people almost forget about them and nobody knows what's going on out there," Robinson said. His work will be showcased in an exhibition titled Harvest from the Deep at the Old Low Light Heritage Centre from July 22 to August 30. This exhibition is part of North Shields 800 celebrations and receives funding from North Shields Cultural Quarter. Robinson's photographs cover everything from boats setting out to sea to fish displayed on fishmongers' counters. But more than just documenting the process, his images tell stories of the people involved. One standout subject is a 79-year-old lobster fisherman who is considered the oldest at the quay. Other photos show touching moments like a father and son working side by side. "You got all these people and stories slowly disappearing," Robinson observed. He noted that in two or three decades, changes are inevitable—both in how fishing is done and which types of fish are caught. The quay itself might shrink even further by then. "It's important to capture these people and stories before they're gone forever." A wedding photographer by trade, Robinson was drawn to this project because he felt that tales from the fish quay were "under-represented." To capture these narratives authentically, he often joined fishermen on their voyages, enduring seasickness and battling severe weather conditions. At 44 years old, Robinson plans to continue photographing this community for years to come. "These sort of people and stories won't be around forever so I'm trying to capture as many people and as many stories as I can for future generations to enjoy," he said. In addition to the exhibition, Robinson has self-published a photo book with proceeds going to Fishermen's Mission charity in North Shields.