Generous Donation of Over $103M to Boost Native Financial Institutions
Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has made a historic contribution to Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs), awarding more than $103 million in unrestricted funding. This landmark investment is one of the largest single contributions to Native financial institutions and is set to create lasting impacts in Indigenous communities nationwide. Thirty Native-led and Native-serving CDFIs received grants […]
Virginia Zoo Welcomes Adorable Pygmy Hippo Calf
The Metro Richmond Zoo is celebrating the arrival of an adorable baby pygmy hippo, born just before Christmas. The female calf, born to proud parents Iris and Corwin, is their third daughter in under five years. Born in an indoor pool after a seven-month gestation, the little one immediately showcased her instincts by moving in […]
Community Rallies to Save Baltimore Pizzeria in a Holiday Miracle
A small pizzeria on Light St. in Baltimore, facing closure on Christmas Day, has been given a second chance thanks to a viral pizza review and the generosity of the community. Little Brick Oven Pizzeria, owned by veteran Will Fagg, was struggling to cover costs, including a much-needed liquor license, when renowned Barstool Sports reviewer […]
A Fallen Giant Becomes a Gathering Place for Generations
A mighty 500-year-old oak tree that once stood tall in Devon England has found new life as a spectacular 18-meter-long table, seating up to 60 people. Crafted entirely from the single fallen tree, the Great Oak Table now resides in Pigwiggen Wood, a wildlife refuge near Dartmoor, thanks to a community effort that raised over […]
Gray Wolf Population in California Sees Remarkable Growth
California’s gray wolf population has seen a significant rebound, with the latest count revealing a rise to at least 70 wolves, up from 44 last year. Researchers also identified two new packs, bringing the total to nine packs, mostly in the northeast corner of the state. This year’s count marks a milestone with a record […]
Azores Create Europe’s Largest Marine Protected Area Network
Portugal’s Azores have established Europe’s largest Marine Protected Area (MPA) network, safeguarding 287,000 square kilometers of ocean to protect diverse marine ecosystems. With 15 percent of the waters fully protected and another 15 percent highly protected, activities like fishing and mining are restricted to preserve habitats for whales, dolphins, sharks, and deep-sea corals. This effort, […]
How Kind Strangers Helped a Homeless Woman Turn Her Life Around
A woman who once faced homelessness has celebrated an emotional reunion with the couple who welcomed her into their home and offered her hope during her darkest days. Yasmina, who lived in her car outside Newcastle, found warmth and stability with Mark and Elisabeth, a couple from Whitley Bay, through their work with the Nightstop […]
105-Year-Old Celebrates Birthday with Fireball Whiskey
Flo Hackman, a 105-year-old resident of Loveland, Ohio, has embraced a unique tradition to mark her birthdays: taking a celebratory shot of Fireball whisky. This year, Flo toasted her milestone surrounded by loved ones at the Traditions of Deerfield senior living facility. After her whisky toast, she blew out candles on a chocolate-frosted cake, continuing […]
James Patterson Spreads Holiday Cheer with Bonuses for Bookstore Staff
Renowned author James Patterson is once again championing independent bookstores and their hardworking staff this holiday season. The 77-year-old thriller novelist is donating $300,000 to 600 bookstore employees across the United States as part of his annual holiday bookstore bonus program. Each selected staffer will receive a $500 bonus, providing recognition and support during the […]
Local Hero Fuels Holiday Spirit with Discounted Gas Prices
For over 45 years, Ernie Giannecchini, a former attorney and owner of Ernie’s Country Store in Stockton, California, has been giving back to his community in meaningful ways. This holiday season, he lowered gas prices to $3.49 per gallon—nearly a dollar less than nearby stations—helping customers save during a financially demanding time. His gesture has […]