Researchers Pull Carbon Out of the Sky And Convert it to Instant Jet Fuel, Reshaping Aviation For Good

By

-

Jan 2, 2021

A simple, yet world-altering method of sucking CO2 from the air into airplanes where it is converted directly to jet fuel is described in a new paper published in Nature.

With the importance of removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere at the front and center of so many economic and policy decisions, the invention of an onboard system for carbon-neutral flight would represent a massive step towards addressing the climate crisis.

Some estimates puts the aviation industry’s primarily-CO2 footprint of global emissions at just under 1 billion metric tons, or around 2.4% of all human activities.

Converting atmospheric CO2 into useable hydrocarbon fuel is difficult, and as until recently, expensive both in terms of capital and electricity. Using a molecule that is fully oxidized and thermodynamically stable, there are few keys that can cheaply or efficiently ‘unlock it’ for reuse.

Some catalysts, compounds that can attract and force a change in molecules, can convert CO2 into hydrocarbon molecules of a desirable configuration for jet fuels, but their use is limited because they are expensive or require huge amounts of electricity. They’re also inconsistent with producing hydrocarbon chains with the number of atoms ideal for aviation fuels.

The University of Oxford’s Peter Edwards, Tiancun Xiao, Benzhen Yao, and colleagues designed a new iron-based catalyst that represents an inexpensive way of directly capturing atmospheric CO2 and converting it into a jet fuel-range of hydrocarbons.

The basic catalyst is iron-based, and includes other simple chemicals like potassium nitrate, citric acid, and manganese, and when activated, would only need to climb to about 300°C (572°F) to work.

MORE: World’s First Hydrogen-Powered Passenger Plane Lifts Off On Maiden Zero-Emissions Flight

The authors were also able to collect other important raw materials for the petrochemical industry during the conversion process, which are currently only available from crude oil. Essentially, what Edwards and the other researchers discovered was a method for “mining” CO2, which far from being the blanket-term used in climate change studies, represents a wealth of volatile natural resources that can produce all manner for petrochemical products on the ground.

“The advances reported here offer a route out of the current, worldwide [lifecycle] for jet fuels, based on the (present) Production-Consumption- Disposal/Emission structure,” write the authors of the invention whose paper was published in Nature.

“This, then, is the vision for the route to achieving net-zero carbon emissions from aviation; a fulcrum of a future global zero-carbon aviation sector.”

FLY the Good News Over to Friends on Social Media…

“Each year’s regrets are envelopes, in which messages of hope are found for the new year.” – John R. Dallas Jr.

Quote of the Day

By

Good News Network

-

Jan 2, 2021

Quote of the Day: “Each year’s regrets are envelopes, in which messages of hope are found for the new year.” – John R. Dallas Jr.

Photo by: Anna Helsinki

With a new inspirational quote every day, atop the perfect photo—collected and archived on our Quote of the Day page—why not bookmark GNN.org for a daily uplift?

These Bad Habits Americans Picked Up in 2020 They Want to Get Rid of in 2021

By

Good News Network

-

Jan 1, 2021

Nearly half of Americans working from home have signed off early to have a drink, according to a new poll—and 45% of these respondents have admittedly taken the liberty of having an alcoholic drink during the workday.

The survey polled 2,000 nationally-representative adults (approximately 800 of whom are working from home) to examine the habits people have picked up during lockdown and how they plan to deal with them in the new year.

Conducted by OnePoll, the survey found that 53% of those polled have been drinking alcohol more frequently during the pandemic.

In fact, 64% of those who are employed (1,400 respondents) shared that virtual happy hours with coworkers have increased their alcohol intake, and 52% of all respondents said that they’ve felt the need to drink while watching the news this year.

So it’s no surprise that six in 10 said they’ll be trying to drink less in 2021.

Drinking more isn’t the only habit that respondents admit they’d like to change.

Two in five people shared they’ve been snacking more and eating more comfort foods as quarantine continues – and they’ve been stress-eating an average of three times a week.

Other habits that grew last year include drinking too much caffeine (32%) and staying in one’s pajamas all day (23%).

It’s also no surprise that one in 10 respondents working from home also found it harder and harder to get out of bed during the work week and often overslept.

With so many months of reinforcement, 45% of respondents said they worried they’ll never be able to fall out of these routines.

But, seven in 10 respondents say they plan on starting 2021 with a clean slate to improve their health.

ALSO: Americans Tried to Stay Positive in 2020, And 66% Agreed Their Communities Are Closer Than Ever

Some of the top goals for the new year included resolutions to exercise more (53%), eat more fruits and veggies (51%) and plan more meals (36%).

“2020 has been rough, so it’s no surprise alcohol intake has increased,” said Nick Taranto, founder of HOP WTR who invented a non-alcoholic beer and sponsored the survey. “20% of those over 21 said their top goal for 2021 is to drink less alcohol.”

TOP BAD HABITS PICKED UP DURING QUARANTINE

Snacking more throughout the day – 40%
Eating more comfort foods – 39%
Not eating as many fruits and vegetables as they should – 33%
Drinking too much caffeine – 32%
Eating more junk food – 32%
Not eating three meals a day – 31%
Drinking too much alcohol – 26%
Not exercising – 25%
Staying in pajamas all day – 23%
Oversleeping during a work day while working from home – 11%

TOP PLANS TO BE HEALTHIER IN 2021

Exercise regularly – 53%
Eat more fruits and vegetables – 51%
Meal planning – 36%
Regulate their sleep schedule – 35%
Jogging – 33%
Portion control – 29%
Fad diet – 23%
Drink less alcohol – 21%

SHARE Your Tips For a Better New Year in the Comments, and on Social Media…

The First Meteor Shower of 2021 Will Light Up the Night Sky on New Year’s Weekend

By

Good News Network

-

Jan 1, 2021

meteor shower night sky stars sunset man public domain-raman-deep — Raman Deep

2021 looks set to be an exciting year for stargazers, with the first big celestial event happening this weekend, as the Quadrantid meteor shower peaks from January 2 into January 3.

First spotted in 1825, the Quadrantids—also known as the Bootids—happens every year between December 28 and January 12.

Now known to originate from an asteroid called 1003 EH1, “the meteors appear to radiate from the modern constellation of Bootes,” NASA explains. “Even though the constellation may no longer be recognized, it was considered a constellation long enough to give the meteor shower its name.”

The American Meteor Society is reporting that—along with the Perseids and Geminids we reported on in 2020—the Quadrantids could be the strongest shower of the season.

How to see the Quadrantids

Look up late on Saturday night, or before dawn on Sunday, and you may see between 60 and 200 meteors per hour as they travel at 25.5 miles per second. You may also see the fireballs the Quarantids are known for. Spectacularly bright, they appear visible for longer than other meteors.

You’ll need to get your timing right, though: The peak of this meteor shower will only last for around six hours.

CHECK OUT: See the Stunning Winners of the Northern Lights Photographer of the Year Competition

According to the International Meteor Organization, the period of maximum activity is expected to take place at around 14:30 UTC on January 3. This means that for much of the States, it’ll be in the hours before dawn on Sunday that the Quadrantids are best viewed.

With a nearly full, if waning, moon brightening the sky this weekend, it’s true that it won’t be quite as easy to catch fiery meteors streaking high above our cities and mountains and fields as in other years.

Still, on this first weekend of the new year, it’ll certainly be worth going out—and looking up.

SHARE The Bright Celestial News With Pals on Social Media…

Man Hasn’t Been to the Grocery Store in 8 Months Thanks to Tiny Pandemic Garden Inspired By Grandfather

By

Good News Network

-

Jan 1, 2021

Meet the man who isn’t running to the supermarket to stockpile—thanks to his tiny urban patio garden which has kept him in fruit and vegetables for nine months.

This green-thumbed Italian—who moved to London six years ago—has grown so many vegetables during lockdown that he hasn’t been to the grocery store for any in eight months.

29-year-old tattoo artist Alessandro Vitale has grown chilli peppers and mint on his windowsill for years, so he was delighted when he moved into an apartment with a shared garden last year.

He set to work transforming half the 8x5m patio area into a growing haven, created a wall trellis for herbs out of recycled water bottles, and installed planters and a greenhouse.

In his first harvest this year, Alessandro managed to produce an impressive haul of 30 different kinds of vegetable, including cabbage, carrots, garlic, fennel, leeks, cauliflower, and broccoli.

Alessandro dined out on an impressive 35kg of tomatoes from just six plants, and he’s picked 10kg of 17 different types of chilli.

Keen to be frugal and environmental, Alessandro’s crops are 100% organic: He uses foraged wild nettle from a park for pest control, and homegrown aloe vera to make fertilizer.

Thanks to his Italian grandmother’s secret recipes, he’s turned lots of it into delicious pasta sauces to see him through winter, alongside veg he’s sorting too.

Alessandro said: “When I was a kid I used to help my grandpa out in the garden. I remember he would import chilli seeds from all over the world and he would have tonnes of plants.

“I couldn’t even go near when they were being harvested as I would have tears coming down my face.

“But since then this love of nature and gardening grew and it’s just something I’ve always enjoyed as a hobby.

Though Alessandro works full-time 45 hours a week, as soon as he’s home he spends a couple of hours tending to the garden. “My favorite thing to make with is jam and sauces from the chillis,” he says.

CHECK OUT: Compassionate Neighbor Subs in to Help Soldier’s Son With Yard Work

He now runs his own YouTube channel SpicyMoustache, sharing urban gardening tips and encouraging others to create urban green spaces.

SHARE This Story With Green-Thumbed Pals on Social Media…

Son Finds Original Children’s Book Written by His Dad Returning From WWII PoW Camp, Publishes it 75 Years Later

By

Good News Network

-

Jan 1, 2021

A children’s book written by a father for his son after he returned from a World War Two prisoner of war camp has finally been published—after 75 years.

‘Now It Can Be Told’ was penned by Arthur Stiby after he was released from a Japanese-run detention center. The Royal Artillery major was captured by Japanese forces after the fall of Singapore in 1942 and endured horrific conditions. To keep his and others’ spirits up, he wrote plays and sketches to be performed as entertainment for fellow PoWs.

Upon his return to Britain, Arthur then wrote the first parts of the children’s book, which features a brave daschund involved in a wartime mission,. A talented writer, he sent his work in easy-to-read weekly installments to his son Robert at boarding school.

Thought to have been lost, the incomplete manuscript was rediscovered while Robert was sorting through old family boxes recently.

Robert said: “My father died long ago, but recently I have had time to sort out a lot of family stuff. There in a dusty old box, I found this tattered, dog-eared copy of the original, but incomplete, manuscript. I was overjoyed. Although I am no longer eight—I am now in my eighties—reading it again was such fun that I decided to publish it.”

He and nephew Jamie Stiby-Harris then set about finishing the book—with Jamie doing the illustrations.

Robert added: “I hope this little book will bring as bring as much enjoyment to others as it did to the grubby little schoolboy for whom it was originally written.”

CHECK OUT: The Adventure Stories in This Non-Fiction Children’s Book are the Perfect Confidence Boost for Kids

The book is available for £7 ($9.50), and all proceeds from the sale of the book to go to the Salisbury Hospice.

SHARE This Amazing Find With Book Lovers on Social Media…

“Take a leap of faith and begin this wondrous new year by believing.” – Sarah Ban Breathnach

Quote of the Day

By

Good News Network

-

Jan 1, 2021

Quote of the Day: “Take a leap of faith and begin this wondrous new year by believing.” – Sarah Ban Breathnach

Photo by: Chris Lofqvist, CC license

With a new inspirational quote every day, atop the perfect photo—collected and archived on our Quote of the Day page—why not bookmark GNN.org for a daily uplift?

‘Memory Cop’ Uses Incredible Face Recognition Skills to Catch 2,100 Suspects–Including People in Face Masks

By

Good News Network

-

Dec 31, 2020

An eagle-eyed police officer dubbed “Memory Cop” has used his mind-blowing face recognition skills to catch 2,100 suspects—including those wearing face masks.

England’s Andy Pope boasts a photographic memory, which means he can recall faces from CCTV images years after he has seen them.

His incredible skill has seen him collar suspects for crimes which range from robbery, indecent exposure, sex assaults, and attempted murder since 2012.

The super recognizer, who says his skill is “impossible to explain” but credits “instinct” for usually being right, had spotted 1,000 offenders by 2018.

Last year, his ability led to 406 people being caught, including 16 in just one day, and he has now sailed past the 2,000 milestone during 2020.

The 43-year-old has managed to snare over a hundred suspects this year and has even identified wanted criminals who were wearing masks during the pandemic.

Andy, who works for West Midlands Police, says he has kept relying on instinct to catch crooks despite face coverings making them harder to catch than ever before.

His skill has led to the officer being a finalist in the Against All Odds category of the Amplifon Awards For Brave Britons 2020. Winners in some of the other categories included Manchester United soccer star and ‘free kids meals’ hero Marcus Rashford, as well as NHS fundraiser Captain Sir Tom Moore.

Averaging one recognition every other shift, he also became one of the first 20 people in the world to form part of the Super Recognisers Association in recognition for his razor-sharp ability.

He said: “Although it’s been a year like no other, I’ve still carried on as usual with the same preparation coming onto a shift.

MORE: Kindness in West Virginia: Police Give Traffic Violators Gift Cards Instead of Tickets

“The most important thing is being able to assist in catching criminals and keeping the public safe, especially given the year it has been.”

SHARE This Cop’s Amazing Memory Skills With Friends on Social Media…

How to be Happier in 2021: Toss Out Your Usual List of New Year’s Resolutions, Says Study

By

Good News Network

-

Dec 31, 2020

So you want to look trimmer, be smarter, and successful next year? You strive to exercise and call your friends more, and spend less?

You are not alone. New Year’s resolutions are as ubiquitous as they are difficult to keep. Does it even make sense to set such lofty goals for the new year, hoping anew each January first that this time really is the charm?

Any motivational researcher would have “ambivalent feelings” about New Year’s resolutions, says Richard Ryan, an international expert on motivational research and professor emeritus of psychology at the University of Rochester. “The evidence shows that most of the time people aren’t successful at them.”

But don’t throw in the towel quite yet. Ryan, who is also a clinical psychologist, says that any occasion that gives us an opportunity to reflect on our lives is ultimately a good thing. It doesn’t have to be on New Year’s. “Whenever that happens, if it’s really a reflective change—something that you put your heart behind—that can be good for people.”

And he has another tip: what proves most satisfying, and may also be what’s most needed as the COVID-19 pandemic rages on, are goals that involve giving to others.

“Think of how you can help,” says Ryan. “There’s a lot of distress out there: If we can set goals that aim to help others, those kinds of goals will, in turn, also add to our own well-being.”

His advice is grounded in decades of research. Together with Edward Deci (also a University of Rochester professor emeritus of psychology) Ryan is the cofounder of self-determination theory (SDT), a broad framework for the study of human motivation and personality. Developed by the duo over nearly 40 years, the theory has become one of the most widely accepted frameworks of human motivation in contemporary behavioral science. Its starting point is the idea that all humans have the natural—or intrinsic—tendency to behave in effective and healthful ways.

CHECK OUT: Still Feeling Like a New Year’s Resolution? Study Suggests Living ‘Fast,’ Living Longer—With Intermittent Fasting

According to Ryan, who is also a professor at the Institute for Positive Psychology and Education at Australian Catholic University, acts of willingly helping others satisfy all three of the basic psychological needs identified in SDT research: the needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

Autonomy in this context means that you can engage in activities in which you feel true volition and find personal value. Competence means feeling effective and having a sense of accomplishment. Finally, relatedness means working with and feeling connected to others.

“If you want to make a New Year’s resolution that really makes you happy, think about the ways in which you can contribute to the world,” says Ryan. “All three of these basic needs are fulfilled. The research shows it’s not just good for the world but also really good for you.”

Source: University of Rochester

Be Sure And Share This Intriguing Piece Of News With Your Friends On Social Media…

‘Grandfather’ of Homeless Animals Graduates From Veterinary Program to Care for Stray Dogs

By

abbabbitt

-

Dec 31, 2020

The “grandfather” of homeless animals has been awarded for his volunteering efforts looking after stray dogs—graduating from a veterinary medicine program in his seventies, he now travels hundreds of miles a week to care for them.

Retiring from his career as a biology teacher after serving his community of 42 years, Turkey’s Fevzi Uyar has been dedicating his time to animals in need for the past five years.

He has cared for many stray dogs—including building over 80 plywood animal shelters to house them during the winter months. To each one, he adds carpets, rugs, and blankets for insulation and comfort.

Uyar also travels more than 90 miles every two days to provide homeless dogs with food and water. With the help of other animal lovers, he supplies eight to ten tons of dog food and meal to strays each month. Up to 1,000 dogs now recognize his van and follow it along the path of food stops he has established.

Often encountering animals in need of medical attention, Uyar incurred several thousands of dollars in debts to the local veterinarian. To continue providing care, he enrolled in a veterinary medicine program despite being past retirement age. Recently graduating, the 71-year-old now vaccinates, treats, and dresses any wounds.

For his efforts to provide stray animals with a better life, Uyar has been awarded the first Gladiator Award from The Babbitt Family Foundation. They say, “We hope Mr. Uyar’s story will inspire you to discover how ‘a single individual can contribute to changing the world and benefitting all humanity’.”

MORE: This Dog Was Lost in the Woods for 10 Days With a Winter Storm on the Way – But a Drone Saved the Day

If there’s someone you’d like to nominate for a Gladiator Award, you can head here.

WOOF Your Approval of This Hero’s Story By Sharing on Social Media…

Boy Thought His Pandemic Birthday Would Be No Fun–Then a Magician Got Involved (Watch his Eyes)

By

Good News Network

-

Dec 31, 2020

The illusionist Rick Lax was just five years old when he began practicing and performing tricks. His parents bought him a Toys-R-Us magic set, and he loved it.

Through his childhood, he never stopped practicing, and his illusions grew ever more sophisticated and successful.

When it became time to apply to colleges, though, there was no real Hogwart’s or wizarding school to apply to, so Rick studied law. Torts and contracts was never his real passion. But by the age 27, he was back at his first love. Magic.

Lax has since gone on to become an illusion consultant for David Copperfield. He’s helped create and produce magic tv shows.

Now? He’s helping others feel up when the pandemic is getting them down.

On recently hearing about an upset boy who couldn’t celebrate his birthday with friends, Lax knew just how to cheer him up.

The boy’s reaction to his ‘magic’ day in the video is amazing. Just watch his face in the video when the last item comes out the bag.

SEND This Moment of Joy to Friends on Social Media…

“Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called opportunity and its first chapter is New Year’s Day.” – Edith Lovejoy Pierce

Quote of the Day

By

Good News Network

-

Dec 31, 2020

Quote of the Day: “Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called opportunity and its first chapter is New Year’s Day.” – Edith Lovejoy Pierce

Photo by: Jess Bailey

With a new inspirational quote every day, atop the perfect photo—collected and archived on our Quote of the Day page—why not bookmark GNN.org for a daily uplift?

Artist Creates Breathtaking ‘Drawings’ in Snow By Walking for Hours at a Time (LOOK)

By

Good News Network

-

Dec 30, 2020

A British artist has created a series of breathtaking snow “drawings” by walking in circles for more than 50 miles.

61-year-old Simon Beck had to battle the elements in Silverthorne, Colorado while he created the incredible patterns over a two-week period in January.

Beck, who creates the elaborate designs for fun and commission, produced 8 Colorado snow drawings in total, bringing his lifetime tally up to a staggering 300.

The intricate designs—best appreciated from above—are inspired by snowflakes, crop circles, and mathematical fractals.

He uses sketches and a compass to measure the number of snowshoed steps that will be needed before he sets out for 2 to 6 hours at a time for each individual creation.

“There were two drawings that took a day and a half to make and the first was blown away,” said Beck, who is from Taunton, Somerset. “And all the drawings were damaged to an extent by the wind. A quarter of my time was spent reinstating work I had done earlier.”

His designs have titles such as “Flower of Life”, “10-Pointed Star”, “Circular Array” and “Koch Snowflake”.

Volunteers helped out at various points by alerting Beck if he was about to put a foot down wrong.

Be Sure And Share The Breathtaking Photos With Your Friends On Social Media….

Boys Make $250,000 From Genius Christmas Invention—And Donate Thousands to Animal Shelters

By

Judy Cole

-

Dec 30, 2020

boys christmas ornament invention-supplied amanda naqvi — Amanda Naqvi

According to tradition, January 6th (a.k.a. The Twelfth Day of Christmas) is when you’re supposed to take down your Christmas tree. Sadly, many folks, as they wrap up precious ornaments until next holiday season may find themselves a few keepsakes short.

Ornaments are fragile things. All it takes is curious cat, a running toddler, or even the misguided sweep of a vacuum cleaner sucking up stray needles to destroy a cherished family memento.

And that’s just what inspired a pair of 12-year-old entrepreneurs to take action.

Brothers Ayaan and Mickey Naqvi, who live in Shelton, Connecticut, were decorating their family Christmas tree last year when one of their favorite ornaments succumbed to the forces of gravity. (The beloved family dog, Zara, whose tail Ayaan describes as an “ornament missile,” may have played a part as well.)

While the tree decoration in question was beyond repair, from its broken shards sprung a bright idea: What if there was a better way to hang ornaments so they’d be truly secure?

From that epiphany, the Ornament Anchor was born.

Using a loop and toggle system, Ayaan created the prototype and presented it for a school project. The reception was overwhelmingly favorable—so favorable in fact, the boys quickly decided to turn their invention into a potential money-making proposition.

“My brother and I worked together to design the product, patent it, create an awesome website, calculate profit margins and did our own market analysis,” Ayaan told CNN. “We did everything to the point where every month was Christmas.”

This wasn’t the boys’ first commercial invention rodeo: A previous gadget landed the pair and their family on an episode of Shark Tank. While they didn’t cut a deal, it was a true learning experience.

From $1,000 in sales in six hours at a local Christmas trade show, the Ornament anchor went on to be showcased on Good Morning America and featured on QVC. In one year, the brothers’ brainchild has raked in more than $250,000.

Flush with success, Ayaan and Mickey are determined to pay their good fortune forward by donating 10% of their profits to local animal shelters. “Ever since I was super young, I’ve had a fascination with all of life’s creatures,” Ayaan explained. “My goal is to help as many animals in need as I can.”

The boys admit that starting a new business in 2020 has had its challenges. While they’re enjoying their well-earned windfall, adjusting to distance learning and other constraints of the coronavirus lockdown wasn’t easy.

MORE: Tennessee Teen Raises Thousands of Dollars For Food Banks By Making and Selling His Own Vanilla – WATCH

Through the turbulent times, they say they’ve just tried to take things one step at a time and keep a positive attitude because that—along with the love and support of their family—are what keeps them anchored.

SHARE The Boys’ Story and Their Festive Invention With Friends…

Small Business Offering a Million Donations of Hand Sanitizer to Essential Groups Who Can’t Keep Up

By

hunnicutt75

-

Dec 30, 2020

woman-sanitizer-public-domain-kelly-sikkema-unsplash — Credit: Kelly Sikkema

Hand sanitizer is a much-needed safety item as the COVID-19 pandemic rages on, but many organizations are reeling from overstretched budgets and don’t have the money to keep up with the demand they have for basic protective supplies. Florida’s Kira Labs wants to help—by giving away one million tubes of its Medyskin Hand Sanitizer to groups in need.

The company is ready to ship to hospitals, schools and nonprofits in need: Interested groups can submit a form at this link to request a minimum of 2,500 and up to a maximum of 20,000 2.5-ounce tubes of 70% alcohol hand sanitizer while supplies last.

Several South Florida organizations have already benefited from the generosity of Kira Labs and its partner Simple Life Medical. Orange County was the recipient of 100,000 tubes, a local chapter of the Salvation Army received 20,000, and 10,000 hand sanitizer tubes were delivered to the Orlando Airport. Thousands more have gone to community partners such as Boys & Girls Club of St. Lucie County, Little Smiles, and the Delray Housing Authority.

CHECK OUT: Customer Buys Beer and Toasts the Staff With $3000 Tip–As Restaurant Voluntarily Shuts Doors During COVID

Early on in the pandemic, Kira Labs and a partner was providing a a truckload per day of its antimicrobial hand wash to the healthcare workers at the emergency hospital for coronavirus patients at New York City’s Javits Center.

The company—which specializes in creating cosmetics such as body washes and face serums—hired over 20 additional employees to meet demand, doubling its production per person to get hand sanitizer to the places that need it.

“There’s no better feeling than helping others,” says CEO David Rosen. “This pandemic experience has impacted our organization in many positive ways, increasing our sense of teamwork and a commitment to keeping ourselves and others safe. We hope these donations will benefit many wonderful people and causes.”

SHARE This Story of Generosity With Friends on Social Media…

Watch This UPS Driver Being Moved to Tears by Neighborhood ‘Thank You’

By

Good News Network

-

Dec 30, 2020

ups-driver-anthony-gaskin screenshot abc youtube — ABC News/YouTube

One UPS worker in Virginia didn’t just receive a cash gift or Christmas card this December as thanks for their hard work through the pandemic.

Hundreds of local residents stood outside their homes and clapped for their favorite delivery driver Anthony Gaskin as he drove slowly by the parade.

Over 100 Midlothian locals honked the horns on their cars; they rang their bicycle bells, they held up homemade signs—they applauded in every way they could. Anthony’s supervisors were even there to give a gift to him.

One resident explained why it was important to her to thank the UPS driver in a big way: “Through COVID, Anthony has continued working, delivering packages at our doors, record numbers of them, over 180 times to date,” Patty Friedman, who organized the event, said to WTVR in an email.

“I wanted to thank him personally for how much he helped me feel welcome when I moved in during a pandemic. It was terribly lonely and he was always the highlight of my day. Mentioning this to a few people and the response I got was all I needed to know I was not alone.”

(WATCH Anthony receive his hero’s welcome in the video below.)

RING Your Bell for This Sweet Story by Sharing it on Social Media…

“What the new year brings to you will depend a great deal on what you bring to the new year.” – Vern McLellan

Quote of the Day

By

Good News Network

-

Dec 30, 2020

new years fireworks contemplate future river watching-pubdomain-Matt Popovich — Matt Popovich

Quote of the Day: “What the new year brings to you will depend a great deal on what you bring to the new year.” – Vern McLellan

Photo by: Matt Popovich

With a new inspirational quote every day, atop the perfect photo—collected and archived on our Quote of the Day page—why not bookmark GNN.org for a daily uplift?

Amazing Walk-Through Holiday Village With Lights Borrowed from Disney Set to Raise Millions for Critically Ill Children

By

Good News Network

-

Dec 29, 2020

holiday lights give kids the world swns — SWNS

An incredible Florida display featuring 89-acres of holiday lights is helping kids with critical illnesses this winter.

The sets include a giant mushroom, an ice-cream palace spaceship, and a giant upside down toy box. They all illuminate the night sky in Kissimmee as a part of ‘Night of a Million Lights’—a walk-through show made up of, in fact, over 3.2 million lights.

Give Kids The World, a non-profit resort that provides vacations for sick children and their families, opened the dazzling display in November—and the proceeds will be used to support the granting of children’s wishes when the village reopens in January 2021.

“It’s just taking advantage of all of the whimsical things we have and bringing them to life with color and lights,” said Pamela Landwirth, President and CEO of Give Kids The World.

A 150-foot tunnel, a gingerbread arch, and an entire mini-golf course are part of the 45 villas that have been lit up with lights donated by the Walt Disney World Resort.

Launched in 1986, the charity normally serves over 8,000 families from all 50 states and over 70 countries in a year.

CHECK OUT: Stunning Christmas Light Display Inspires 13-Year-old Girl With Autism to Speak for First Time

After having to temporarily close their doors in March due to COVID-19, they began thinking of ways to continue to bring joy to people.

Since its opening, nearly every night of the socially distanced light event has been sold out.

The show is projected to gross more than $3 million in charitable proceeds, with 90 cents of every dollar going to directly fulfil the wishes of critically ill children during their stay at the Village.

Tickets and more information can be found here at the non-profit’s website. The show continues until January 3, 2021.

“We look forward to sharing some holiday joy with the community,” said Pamela, “while making it possible for future wish children to have their wishes fulfilled.”

(WATCH the bright video featuring 3 million twinkling lights.)

SHARE the Light and Send This Sparkling Story to Friends…

Retired Couple Makes 1,400 Gorgeous Wooden Toys for Kids in Need at Christmas: ’People need hope’

By

Judy Cole

-

Dec 29, 2020

mike and judy sullivan-supplied-sierra sullivan (2) — Sierra Sullivan

Anyone who believes Christmas comes but once a year has obviously never met Mike and Judy Sullivan. The couple, who recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, spend most days making toys in the workshop of their Desert Hot Springs, California home that they then donate to local charities each holiday season.

When Mike, a 72-year-old, 26-year army vet retired, he and Judy signed up for a woodworking club. It started as a hobby, but after witnessing the yuletide happiness their handmade playthings brought local families, it became their new vocation. Seven years on, the pair continues to churn out toys at a pace that would give Santa’s elves a run for their money.

Mike is in charge of toy production while Judy handles decoration and quality control. Their 15 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren serve as testers and focus groups.

Mike Sullivan’s love of woodworking is something of a family tradition. Sullivan grew up in Montana. His dad was a miner. The family didn’t have a lot of money, but both his elder brothers were carpenters, so many of the Christmas presents he received as a child were homemade.

“Most of the things I got were handmade toys. They were wonderful toys, I know how much I enjoyed them and just hope that kids that get them now still do,” he told CNN.

This year, the pandemic meant many families didn’t have funds to cover non-essentials, which made the Sullivans’ mission more important than ever. Mike and Judy embraced the challenge, creating and distributing close to 1,400 toys that included animal figures, puzzles, and trucks, to name just a few.

COVID-19 also meant they had to be mindful of social distancing, masking, and scheduling, but the couple persevered.

The Sullivans’ toys made their way to a local kindergarten class, Coachella Valley Rescue Mission, a food pantry, and other charitable organizations—all of them free of charge (including postage for items sent out of state as far as Indiana and Texas).

With their out of pocket costs estimated at close to $19,000 last year, the Sullivans launched a GoFundMe page to ensure they’d be able to keep the flow of toys coming. (Mike’s hoping to purchase a 3-D laser printer so he can kick production into a higher gear.)

Mike and Judy say they plan to continue making toys as long as they’re able. “We’re both in good health and are able to be out here six to seven days a week for eight to 10 hours,” Sullivan told CNN. “It’s so much fun, it feels like home here in the shop working things out.”

Mike admits that while they very rarely get a chance to see the kids as they receive their gifts, just knowing a family’s Christmas will be much merrier thanks to their efforts makes it all worthwhile.

“It makes me feel very very warm inside. I love it,” Judy told KESQ-TV News 3. “I wouldn’t change anything for the world.”

MORE: Teen Creates Dolls For Kids With Rare Medical Conditions to Help Them Feel Included and Loved

And that’s exactly the spirit that keeps Christmas alive, not just one day, but 365 days a year.

GIFT Your Friends This Story of True Generosity…

A Homeless Man in Atlanta Rescued All the Animals at a Shelter After it Caught on Fire

By

Judy Cole

-

Dec 29, 2020

keith walker and dog-screenshot gofundme — Keith Walker, GoFundMe

Keith Walker has been homeless since he was 13 years old. The one constant in this 53-year-old’s life these days: his dog, Bravo. Never certain of his own circumstances, to keep him safe, Walker arranged with Gracie Hamlin, founder of W-Underdogs, to let Bravo spend his nights at the facility.

On December 18, as Walker arrived to take Bravo for a walk, he found the shelter engulfed in flame. Without hesitation, Walker rushed into the inferno to save the animals.

“I was nervous as hell, I’m not going to lie. I was really scared to go in there with all that smoke. But God put me there to save those animals,” he told CNN. “If you love a dog, you can love anyone in the world. My dog is my best friend, and I wouldn’t be here without him, so I knew I had to save all those other dogs.”

According to Hamlin, the firefighters at the scene had called animal control to take charge of rescuing the home’s furry residents, but with the fire raging, Walker refused to wait. Scared as he might have been, Walker pulled every one of the animals—six dogs and 10 cats—to safety.

“He is my guardian angel…I can’t thank him enough for saving my animals,” Hamlin said. “I’m still in disbelief… I’ve been around a fire and I know how fast they flare up.”

CHECK OUT: Lucky Dog Gets Adopted By Oil Rig Worker Who Found Him Swimming 135 Miles From Thai Coast

The fire, which started in the kitchen, ultimately rendered the facility uninhabitable. Fortunately, the animals were already slated to be moved into W-Underdog’s new Atlanta-based facility in a week’s time, and all are doing well.

As word of Walker’s bravery spread, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to make life a little more certain for “The Atlanta Animal Shelter Hero” and his sidekick, Bravo.

MORE: This Dog Was Lost in the Woods for 10 Days With a Winter Storm on the Way – But a Drone Saved the Day

“…Mr. Walker, you’re an extraordinary gentleman, risking life and limb to save not only dogs, but the cats in the shelter as well, which would have been far more difficult,” commented a donor who made a $50 contribution. “I can’t wait to see you on the news in a fresh apartment with a new start. You’ve earned it, man.”

That sentiment was echoed by many. So far, more than $37,000 has been raised.

While dealing with a person caught up in a cycle of long-term homelessness “is complicated,” the campaign’s founder has vowed that all monies taken in will be put toward making a better future for the man who risked his own life to save the lives of helpless animals.

SHARE This Hero’s Story With Pals on Social Media…