Not All News is Bad!

NEW YORK (AP) — Dolly Parton laughs at the idea that she is some sort of secret philanthropist. Sure, social media sleuths did piece together this week that the country superstar had been quietly paying for the band uniforms of many Tennessee high schools for years.

Source: Dolly Parton donation strategy: ‘I just give from my heart’

A treasure. An example.

Members of the University of Rhode Island campus community now have the opportunity to “paws and reflect,” step away from the stress of the day and spend a little time with Basil, the new therapy dog based in the campus Psychological Counseling Center (PCC).

Source: Meet Basil, the adorable new therapy dog now on campus

So many schools and workplaces could benefit from a resident therapy dog.

 

Though the Eastern High marching band has long struggled to pay for instruments, uniforms and trips, it is a beloved and accomplished fixture in the community.

Source: A broke marching band parades on Capitol Hill to practice. Magic ensues.

Nice.

OSAKA — An 86-year-old bodybuilder broke his own record as the oldest person to compete in the Japan championships on Oct. 9.

Source: 86-year-old bodybuilder breaks own record as oldest to compete in Japan championships

Wow!

As the shipping industry moves to decarbonize, huge sails could be making a comeback. The China Merchant Energy Shipping company (CMES) has taken delivery of a new supertanker, whose four large sails will cut down average fuel consumption by nearly 10%.

Source: Giant supertanker uses 9.8% less fuel thanks to 130-foot sails

Pretty nifty idea.

Fifth-grader Andres Valencia’s inspirations range from Picasso to Pokémon

Source: This 10-Year-Old Boy Makes Art That Sells for Over $100,000

Impressive.

They removed derelict lobster traps, marine rope and other waste on Key Biscayne Beach that washed ashore from the severe winds.

Source: Hurricane Ian dumped trash on the beach. These guys picked up 310 pounds of it.

Just the tip of the iceberg, I’m sure, but a great idea and initiative.

Peace of Mind Dog Rescue helps older dogs and their senior owners with free walks and fostering.

Source: When seniors can’t care for their dogs, these volunteers step in

Good for everyone, people & dogs alike.

In 2014, it was hard to miss the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge that set out to raise money to fund research for the disease. And it paid off. A new treatment was funded by $2.2 million of the funds raised.

Source: The Ice Bucket Challenge wasn’t just for social media. It helped fund a new ALS drug

It’s nice to hear such a positive follow up.

Its enzymes degrade polyethylene within hours at room temperature and could ‘revolutionise’ recycling

Source: Wax worm saliva rapidly breaks down plastic bags, scientists discover

“Worm spit” doesn’t sound appealing, but this is actually pretty cool.