When was the last time that you’ve turned on the news or read the Boston Globe about something good happening in the world? Probably never. 

Most of what the news reports on are events or things that will catch someone’s eye or keep them engaged. However, these events usually aren’t heartfelt or feel-good and are more than likely to be about something bad happening in the world around us. Because of this, it can become really difficult to sift through it all and find something positive. 

That being said, I feel that as a society we tend to focus too often on the negative, and people don’t realize the good that’s all around us. It’s time that we start to prioritize the good news more often!

Good Samaritans and Neighbors in the California Wildfires

The tragic California wildfires are all over the news. With constant updates on the fires’ disastrous effects and results, it may be hard to find anything good in this depressing time. However, challenging times can bring people together, and the wildfires have shown nothing short of that. 

Citizens from all over California are working together to help save lives, pets, and personal belongings, and put out fires. ABC News recently captured the story of a few neighbors who saved the home of another. They noticed a palm tree catching on fire above a house where the homeowners had already left and quickly jumped into action by tossing hoses onto the roof to spray the palm tree. 

The heroes not only saved that house from burning to ash but also prevented the houses around it from catching on fire. 

Many citizens are also making great efforts to support the California Fire Departments, including making meals with nourishing and sustainable food. These meals are also available to many displaced families with no shelter or access to their homes- let alone dinner. 

Ironically, while the wildfires are destroying homes and buildings, the affected communities are coming together and doing their part to help each other out. 

All Chicago City Buildings Now Run on Renewable Energy 

There are 411 buildings run by the city of Chicago, and as of January 1, 2025, all of them run on clean power. 

This great accomplishment originated from the city’s goal to cut carbon emissions by 290,000 metric tons each year, which is equivalent to taking 62,000 cars off of the road.

Chicago will be receiving clean energy from the 3,800-acre solar farm east of the Mississippi River. The farm, also known as the Double Black Diamond Solar project, can now produce energy for as much as 100,000 homes. 

Chicago’s efforts hold even more significance now, as President-elect Donald Trump has chosen to reduce the federal support and funding for climate action. 

Hopefully, even though state and federal policies are changing, other cities will take after Chicago’s example and will make the effort to cut emissions and save our planet!  

FDA Finally Bans Red Dye No.3 

The FDA has finally banned Red Dye #3 from food, drinks, and medicines in the United States. This decision has been long overdue, and food companies now have until 2027 to remove it from their products. 

The dye is typically used in cookies, cakes, frostings, candy, and frozen desserts. Foods like maraschino cherries and the candy Pez include Red Dye 3, and so do many cough syrups and gummy vitamins. 

The choice was made because of the history of Red Dye #3 in causing cancer in animals. It was banned from cosmetics in 1990 and has also caused behavioral issues and decreased attention spans in children. 

However, the ban is not only beneficial to the kids in America but potentially to the greater health of our nation. Hopefully, this ban will spark further movements and raise awareness of the importance of knowing what you are putting in your body. 

Overall, you can find good news everywhere! Every now and then, take the time to look for it.