Sometimes the news can be, well, not so inspiring. When headlines get you down, it’s important to remember that positive things are still happening all around us. Here are five hopeful and encouraging stories to pay attention to this week:
Beauty Comes With Age
What ages better than wine? People, according to this modeling agency! Oldushka, a Russian-based modeling agency wants to break beauty stereotypes by hiring only people over the age of 45. They want to encourage the idea that beauty can be found throughout generations, and often comes with age, wisdom, and experience. The company also discourages their models from using anti-aging products or undergoing any procedures in order to truly see the beauty of naturally growing older. It goes without saying that they do not edit out wrinkles or grey hair! Oldushka, which is a combination of the English word “old” and a common Russian suffix “ushka” which implies affection and tenderness for someone. In a world of unrealistic standards of beauty, Oldushka is showing the world a new way to view the beauty that comes with age. Read more.
Seesaw Set Brings Smiles Across Borders
After 10 years of planning, two college professors have finally brought to life their dream to connect two worlds. Ronald Rael and Virginia San Fratello installed three neon pink seesaws into the border fence that separates Mexico from the United States at Sunland Park, New Mexico. The seesaw structure, which they started to plan back in 2009, allows children from either side to take turns playing together. Calling this design the “Teeter-Toller Wall,” Rael and Fratello wanted to inspire residents of both countries to connect and joyfully interact. They hope this fun creation will help participants recognize “that the actions that take place on one side have a direct consequence on the other side.” Read more.
The Newest Hotel Trend: Banning Single-Use Plastic
The wave against single-use plastic is gaining momentum in the hospitality industry. Inspired by InterContinental Hotel Groups’ ban on plastic straws in October 2018, Marriott Hotels joined the effort. Now, more than 6,500 hotels will boycott single-use plastic straws and stirrers in the upcoming year. IHG is going one step further– banning the use of miniature plastic bottles of personal care products like shampoo and conditioner. The chain will replace the mini bottles with reusable bulk dispensers in 5,600 hotels by 2021. It’s a winning combination, as installing bulk dispensers will save money, while also reducing the amount of plastic ending up in the oceanWith these new efforts, hotels are fighting for progress in eco-friendly hospitality. Read more here and here.
Popular Booth Features “Old Coots Giving Advice”
“You get wiser with age” is perhaps the perfect adage for this group of funny elders in Salt Lake City, Utah. Famous for their playful nature, they host a booth at their local farmers market labeled “Old Coots Giving Advice: It’s probably bad advice but it’s free.” Every Saturday, they impart their humorous words of wisdom to the younger generation for no charge. The booth has turned into quite the modern-day attraction, and becomes packed with eager gatherers every week. Funny and free, this booth of wisdom is spreading laughs for every age. Read more.
3 Dozen NICU Nurses Pregnant or Expecting
One hospital in Missouri is experiencing a baby boom of epic proportions… among its staff! The Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery (NICU) at Children’s Mercy in Kansas City has 36 nurses on staff who are pregnant or who have recently given birth. The women, who care for the most vulnerable newborns every day, share that motherhood has given them a new perspective on the important work they do. Nurse Allison Ronco, who recently gave birth, feels lucky to be part of such an encouraging community “We have an amazing support system,” she says, “there is no shortage of parental advice among us.” Read more.