HapiFriDay, Friends! 👋

Today, we're celebrating the 18th anniversary of "Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith," marking the completion of George Lucas' epic interstellar saga. Spanning 28 years since the first film, this landmark space opera has captivated hearts, sparked imaginations, and inspired generations of fans worldwide since 1977.

Released in theaters in 2005, "Revenge of the Sith" showcased Lucas' vision to portray the transformation of Anakin Skywalker into Darth Vader. This film was instrumental in bridging the gap between the prequel and original trilogies, providing a deeper understanding of the Star Wars universe and the iconic characters that reside within it.

Alright, let’s jump to lightspeed and dive into the top uplifting news stories from around the globe! 👇

Quote of the Day 🗣

HapiFriDay News Roundup 👏

1. Inspiration in the restaurant 👩‍🍳

Samantha Frye, an 18-year-old from Ohio, left her studies at Ohio State University to purchase and operate Rosalie's Restaurant, the establishment where she started working as a teenager. Despite initial parental reservations, Frye's entrepreneurial leap has earned praise from her community and the affirmation of her mother who recognizes her daughter's drive and ambition.

2. Mississippi state fruit 🫐

4th-graders at Mannsdale Upper Elementary School in Mississippi successfully lobbied for the blueberry to be designated as their state fruit. The students' initiative, dubbed "Project Blueberry," saw them researching, advocating, and even witnessing the signing of the legislation into law, demonstrating real-world social studies application beyond their classroom setting.

3. Preserving the Peruvian forest 🌳

Carlos Alberto Llauce Baldera, a seasoned park ranger in Peru's Pómac Forest Historical Sanctuary, has been instrumental in restoring the previously damaged area. As a result of his perseverance, education initiatives, and collaborations with local communities, the area has transformed from a site of illegal squatting and deforestation into a thriving reserve, serving as a testament to the importance of local involvement in environmental conservation.

4. NASA astronaut inspires the children 🌕

Navy Lt. Commander Jonny Kim, the son of Korean immigrants, went from being a Silver Star-earning Navy SEAL and Harvard Medical School graduate to a selected astronaut for NASA's Artemis program. Despite not having any relatable astronaut role models, Kim believes the increasing diversity at NASA can inspire young people to reach their full potential, contributing to a stronger, better America and humanity.

5. 77-year-old has dream wedding with a twist 👰‍♀️

Dorothy "Dottie" Fideli, a 77-year-old resident of O’Bannon Terrace Retirement Community in Goshen, Ohio, fulfilled her lifelong wish of having a big wedding by marrying herself in a symbolic ceremony attended by her community. The vibrant Fideli, known for her acts of joy and kindness, recently taught herself to read at 75, and despite past struggles, is now embracing self-love and pursuing her own dreams, stating "it's my turn to do what I want to do."

Hapi Hits 😊

🛁 Puppy’s first bath: Little pup is scared of the water and hugs his owner’s arm while taking his first bath

🎤 Singing with daddy. This little girl sings an original metal song while dad adds in the instruments and effects.

👶 The baby slide. This dog tugs a box around the floor while a baby sits in it and enjoys the ride.

🥊 Boxing pup. This bulldog dresses up as the cutest boxer you’ll ever see in the ring.

Post of the Day 👀

HapiReview of the Day 🎉

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