Hi friend,

Happy Thursday! In personal news, I participated in a speed puzzling competition yesterday, and let me tell you — it was intense but so much fun! There’s something about the challenge of fitting all the pieces together under pressure that’s both chaotic and oddly calming. While I didn’t quite take home the gold, it was an incredible experience and a reminder of the joy that comes from trying something new.

Back to business as usual — today’s newsletter is here to bring you that same sense of connection and achievement, with uplifting stories to help carry you through the rest of the week. Let’s dive in! 😊 

Montana Supreme Court upholds youth climate activists’ victory

House Ethics Committee to release report on its Matt Gaetz investigation

Democrats look to state legislatures as their anti-Trump ‘firewall’

APD therapy dog Officer Kora wins national award for providing comfort during Helene

Congress passes Paris Hilton-backed bill aimed at protecting institutionalized youth

U.S. EPA approves California rule banning the sale of new gas cars by 2035

Invasive ‘murder hornets’ are wiped out in the US, officials say

Watch: Great-grandma of 15 graduates college at 90: 'It's like being in a dream'

Biden backs calls to ban congressional stock trading

Governor Murphy grants clemency to 36, with ‘fairness and not favor’ as guide

Thank you for reading, and we hope these articles shine a light on your day.

In solidarity,

Emily from The Smile

P.S. Know someone who could use a dose of good news? Forward this email and encourage them to subscribe to The Smile. Let’s spread the positivity together. 🌟