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Robots are Here For You and Your Mess

Modern technology has arrived and it is changing our world, right? So we can just go to bed tonight and we will have Rosie the AutoMaid pick up, dust, vacuum, and do the dishes while we sleep. If anyone is ready to skip to the bottom for contact and order information, we’re sorry. Technology hasn’t come quite that far – yet. Corporations with names like Toyota and institutions like MIT, however, are currently working on concepts such as house cleaning robots.

The Beginning of the End for the Vacuum Cleaner?

It probably isn’t time to store away forever your handy hand-held and upright vacuum cleaners just yet but it may only be a matter of time. With AI, robotics and advanced engineering, the future may be closer than we think. This is much more than an advanced vacuum cleaner we are talking about, this is a tidying robot that will organize, respond, of course, sweep the floors and more…

The leading automated, intelligent vacuums like the iRobot Roomba and the Samsung Powerbot for example, apparently were only the beginning of the newer and smarter home vacuum cleaners. While these robotic vacuum devices clean floors, under tables and furniture and around objects, they aren’t even close to the ideal concept of the tidy-bots.

More Than a Vacuum Cleaner

Although we played with the concept of home cleaning robot at the onset, the truth is that this concept isn’t quite as far-fetched as it initially sounds. Imagine a robot that can organize various items, put things back where they belong, dust, vacuum and even respond to its owner. That isn’t the description of some futuristic home cleaning machine, that is the actual result of AI, robotic design and technology being used now.

No, you haven’t seen them at your local department store or online yet. That’s because they aren’t ready for commercial release or home use, just yet. But yes, they are being tested and being put through drills. That’s correct, there are actually robots that are equipped with video sight, computer brains, lasers and functioning appendages to perform common tasks.

There May be a Tidy-Bot Soon Near You!

As you might have guessed, there are many aspects of these cleaning robots that aren’t being freely discussed just yet – such as expected release dates.  There are videos available revealing some of the capabilities of these futuristic cleaners but we also know there are some obvious hurdles to overcome before we see that anticipated public release. These tidying robots will need to become faster to be more efficient. They will need to develop techniques and user interfaces that make these cool cleaning bots easy to program and handle other concerns before that happens.

So while we wait for the big reveal and as the race to release the first tidy-bot for home use is on, hang on to your trusted old vacuum cleaner, for now. Technology has already shown the world just how fast it is and how dramatically it can change everything and we shouldn’t be surprised when technology finally finds a way into our homes. Perhaps even when we find a tidy-bot doing our chores.

That may be sooner than later.

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From Wheels to Wonder: Paralysed Skater Transforms Old Boards into Bold Sculptures

Kevin Wells

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When Nick Harding lost the ability to skateboard, he never imagined he’d find a new way to stay connected to his lifelong passion — through art.

In 2019, Nick was suddenly paralysed by Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), a rare auto-immune condition where the immune system attacks the nervous system. What started as a sore hamstring quickly escalated into a medical emergency. Within an hour of arriving at the hospital, he was on life support. He spent 13 weeks in intensive care at Southmead Hospital in Bristol and seven months in recovery, relearning how to walk and use his arms.

“Skating has always been a huge part of my life,” Nick said. “Having an outlet for that desire to play with my favourite toy is what brought the sculptures about.”

With his old decks stacked in a corner and his body still rebuilding strength, Nick began experimenting. His early attempts to make practical items were shaky — his hands lacked coordination — so instead, he focused on creating something beautiful. With no prior carpentry experience, he turned to YouTube tutorials, teaching himself to shape, sand, and finish colorful, psychedelic forms from the layered wood of worn-out skateboards.

The process helped rebuild his dexterity, but it also served as a mental anchor. “I just focused on doing a little bit every day,” he said. “It was the process that felt good when I was at my lowest.”

Now, Nick sells his sculptures through his Etsy shop Mobius Maples and has gained fans from around the world. His pieces — all carved from donated, broken, or retired boards — are abstract, swirling forms that capture the movement and spirit of skateboarding.

But for Nick, it’s not just about the art or even the recovery. It’s about staying connected to the Bristol skate scene that shaped him. He donates pieces to skate competitions and charity auctions and even hides small keychains around the city for his Instagram followers to find.

“It wouldn’t be anything if it was just me,” he said. “It’s also people who give me their old boards. Interacting with the art and letting me be involved with things is what’s kept it going.”

“I want it to be something that adds to the community, and I’m so grateful that I still have the opportunity to do that.”

Through creativity, community, and resilience, Nick Harding has transformed adversity into something both healing and inspiring — turning the boards that once carried him across pavement into lasting works of art.

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Community Petition Saves Wally the Beaver from Euthanasia

Shannon Jackson

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Wally, a beloved beaver who became a community favorite in Northern Virginia, was saved from euthanasia thanks to the efforts of thousands of supporters who rallied together through an online petition.

Wally first gained popularity at Huntley Meadows Park in Fairfax County, where locals and visitors often saw him hard at work building dams. However, wildlife officials considered euthanizing him after concerns arose over flooding and tree damage caused by his dam-building activities.

The community swiftly stepped in, launching a petition that quickly gathered over 10,000 signatures. Advocates argued that the beaver’s positive impact on the ecosystem—creating wetlands and habitats for other wildlife—far outweighed any inconveniences.

Local officials eventually agreed, opting instead for a humane relocation effort. Wally will now be safely moved to a suitable habitat rather than being euthanized.

“This shows how much our community values wildlife,” said Julie Ames, the petition’s creator. “We’re thrilled our voices were heard.”

Residents celebrated the decision, highlighting how Wally’s survival symbolizes the growing awareness of peaceful coexistence with local wildlife.

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Third Eaglet Joins Big Bear’s Beloved Bald Eagle Family

Renee Yates

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A third eaglet hatched yesterday in the much-loved bald eagle nest near Big Bear Lake, marking a delightful moment for the growing number of wildlife enthusiasts who have been closely watching the family online.

The nest, located in the San Bernardino National Forest near Big Bear, California, has been streaming live via the Friends of Big Bear Valley eagle cam. Observers were excited to witness the third chick hatch, a significant event considering that bald eagles usually lay two eggs, with three being somewhat unusual.

The parents, affectionately named Jackie and Shadow, are local celebrities among bird watchers. According to the Friends of Big Bear Valley, these parents have gained fame for their caring behavior, ensuring their chicks remain healthy and thriving despite the occasional harsh weather conditions.

“The hatch was smooth and perfectly timed,” said Sandy Steers, executive director of Friends of Big Bear Valley. “It’s heartwarming to see this family continue to flourish.”

Wildlife experts emphasize the importance of maintaining a respectful distance, reminding the public that the best way to enjoy and protect these birds is by observing remotely via the eagle cam.

Viewers can continue to monitor the eaglets’ development, celebrating each milestone as the chicks grow into young eagles over the coming weeks.

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Pocatello’s Last Video Rental Store Preserves Tradition for Devoted Patron

Renee Yates

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In an era where digital streaming dominates, the closure of Video Stop marked the end of an era for Pocatello, Idaho. However, for one loyal customer, the spirit of the traditional video rental experience continues, thanks to the store owner’s thoughtful initiative.

For over 15 years, 35-year-old Christina Cavanaugh, who has Down syndrome and is mostly nonverbal, maintained a cherished routine of visiting Video Stop almost daily with her mother, Toni. This ritual was integral to Christina’s daily life, providing her with joy and consistency. The prospect of the store’s closure posed a significant disruption to her routine, causing concern for Toni about how to explain the change to her daughter.

Understanding the importance of this routine to Christina, Video Stop’s owner, David Kraning, decided to preserve a portion of the store’s collection. He dedicated a corner in his adjacent business, K & B Kwik Stop, to house these movies, ensuring Christina could continue her beloved visits. This thoughtful gesture not only maintained a sense of normalcy for Christina but also highlighted the deep bonds formed between local businesses and their patrons.​

Toni expressed immense relief and gratitude for Kraning’s actions, likening the news to “being sentenced to prison and then getting a reprieve.” She praised the community-oriented approach of Kraning and his staff, who have always been attentive to Christina’s unique needs, even training new employees on how to interact with her during checkout.

While the era of video rental stores may be fading, the compassion and dedication demonstrated by Kraning ensure that, for Christina, the magic of selecting a physical movie remains alive. This story serves as a heartwarming reminder of the impact local businesses can have on the lives of their customers, going beyond transactions to form meaningful, supportive relationships.

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Former Student’s Surprise $1.8 Million Gift Stuns Wisconsin High School

Shannon Jackson

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In an age where school budgets are often stretched thin, a small-town Wisconsin high school received an astonishing financial windfall from a former student. Osceola High School, nestled in the tight-knit Village of Osceola, recently learned that a graduate from the Class of 1947, Millicent “Milly” Lindahl, left the school $1.8 million—with more still to come.

A Gift from the Past

Superintendent Becky Styles recalls the moment she learned of the unexpected donation.

“We were absolutely dumbfounded by the amount,” she said. “This doesn’t happen in public schools very often.”

While Milly Lindahl—who later became Milly Chapman—was not widely known in the community, her legacy is now impossible to ignore. A look through old yearbooks revealed she was an active student, participating in the drama club, yearbook committee, school newspaper, and even serving as a cheerleader.

After graduating in 1947, Milly moved away and lived a private life in Maple Grove, Minnesota, with her husband. With no children or immediate family, she made a decision that ensured her name would live on in Osceola—leaving her estate to the high school that had brought her joy in her youth.

Remembering Milly

While details of her later life remain scarce, Superintendent Styles and the local historical society have pieced together a portrait of a woman who cherished her high school years.

“I think it was a place where she found herself, where she could be who she wanted to be,” Styles said. “It was one of the happiest times of her life, and that’s what she held on to.”

Milly and her husband lived quietly, seemingly well within their means. Though her name may have faded from memory in Osceola, her generosity ensures she will be remembered for generations to come.

A Lasting Legacy for Students

Now, the school faces a major decision—how to use the money in a way that honors Milly’s legacy. While many ideas have been floated, Superintendent Styles emphasized that the funds should have a long-term impact rather than being used for short-term needs.

Possible projects include:

  • A student commons area to foster community and connection.
  • A performance space named in Milly’s honor, recognizing her love of drama and school activities.
  • Scholarships or academic programs to support future students.

Before making any final decisions, the school plans to involve the community and wait for the estate to be fully settled.

One thing is certain—Milly Lindahl’s generosity will shape the future of Osceola High School, just as her time there shaped her.

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