Good News Roundup

A lot of people have been asking for a list of good news stories. Here they are.

With so much bad news dominating headlines, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by negativity. But amidst the chaos, there are plenty of inspiring and uplifting stories that don’t always get the attention they deserve. That’s why I’m starting a weekly good news recap—a roundup of heartwarming, positive stories that you may have missed. We will do one every Saturday night!

This new roundup is only possible because I am expanding with your help. If you want to support my independent journalism, consider becoming a paid subscriber today. All news will always be free!

From acts of kindness to scientific breakthroughs, here are six feel-good stories to brighten your week!

1. Two decades after Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans is once again embarking on a rebuilding journey—this time, through mentorship. Big Brothers Big Sisters is making a comeback in the city for the first time since the program was forced to shut down in the storm’s aftermath. Since its return to New Orleans, the organization has already paired 15 children with mentors, marking a promising new chapter for the city's youth.

2. The latest annual census from the World Wildlife Fund in Mexico and its partners reveals that the number of monarch butterflies spending the winter in Mexico has almost doubled this year.

3. Epigenetics, the study of DNA changes in response to stress, may have revealed a new approach to fighting malaria. A multinational team discovered a chromatin remodeler, PfSnf2L, in the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum, which regulates multiple genes. This breakthrough could pave the way for a new class of antimalarial drugs.

4. Scientists have uncovered a new part of the immune system, potentially opening the door to personalized infection treatments. Published in Nature, the study showed these peptides effectively combat harmful bacteria in human cells and mice, offering a new path for medical research amid rising antibiotic resistance.

5. A Louisville school bus driver, known for his kindness, recently went viral after a heartfelt act touched strangers. Larry Farrish Jr. noticed that first-grader Levi, usually cheerful, was sitting on the ground, upset. When asked, Levi tearfully admitted he didn’t have pajamas for Pajama Day. Wanting to help, Farrish Jr. finished his route, bought two pairs of pajamas, and returned to Levi’s school. When he handed them to the boy, Levi’s face lit up, hugging the pajamas tightly—turning a tough morning into a moment of pure joy.

6. LA restaurateur Marissa Hermer has launched a food delivery service to provide meals for families displaced by wildfires.

See you in the morning!

— Aaron