Source AP News | Subway car in Boston with googly-eyes.
Googly-Eyed Trains Brighten Boston Subway
Boston subway riders are seeing double — and loving it. In a delightful twist, a few trains now sport whimsical googly eye decals, turning mundane commutes into a game of “Where’s Waldo?”
This playful initiative, proposed by a group of transit enthusiasts, was eagerly embraced by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). General Manager Phillip Eng approved the decals, ensuring rider safety while injecting a bit of fun into the daily grind.
The MBTA, managing the U.S.’s oldest subway system, has faced scrutiny over safety issues, prompting a federal review. Amid such challenges, the googly eyes offer a lighthearted respite. Currently, five trains — four on the Green Line and one on a commuter rail line — feature these decals, bringing smiles and a sense of community to Boston’s transit system.
Eng likens the experience of finding Waldoto adding a touch of joy to every commuter’s day. “It gave us all a chance to have a laugh and for the people who use our service to have some fun,” he said.
Photo and quote courtesy of AP News https://apnews.com/article/boston-subway-trains-googly-eyes-42c69329096151eba01dc5b31f34fedc
Source California State Parks | The floodplains located at Dos Rios State Park.
Now Open: Dos Rios State Park
California’s newest state park, Dos Rios, offers a glimpse into the state’s conservation future.
Tucked between the confluence of the Tuolumne and San Joaquin rivers, the 2.5-square-mile park was transformed from a former dairy farm and almond orchard into a thriving floodplain by nonprofit River Partners.
This restoration project has revitalized native habitats and wildlife, including river otters and waterfowl, while also absorbing floodwaters to mitigate risks for nearby communities like Stockton and recharge groundwater.
Dos Rios State Park provides recreational opportunities and features a Native Use Garden with shrubs planted by Indigenous tribes for cultural and medicinal purposes. The park’s inclusive design also includes bilingual tours and plans for family events and educational programs.
Conservationist Julie Rentner and her team hope to replicate this success in other areas, aligning with California’s ambitious goal to conserve 30% of its lands by 2030.
Source WLRN | Otter holing a frozen fish block at Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society.
Zoo Improvises to Keep Animals Cool
At the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society in West Palm Beach, Florida, creative methods are in place to help animals beat the summer heat.
With temperatures soaring into the upper 90s Fahrenheit and humidity making it feel over 100°F, zookeepers provide various cooling solutions for their residents.
Malayan tigers enjoy frozen cow bones and goat milk, while black bears lounge on large piles of ice. Otters play with frozen fish blocks, and Aldabra tortoises relish refreshing showers.
Zoo curator Mike Terrell said that the selection of animals is tailored to the local climate, ensuring their comfort even in extreme heat. The zoo is constantly refining its cooling methods based on the animals’ preferences, much to the delight of visitors who enjoy watching these activities.
This approach ensures the well-being of the animals and enhances the visitor experience, making the zoo a popular destination even during the sweltering summer months.