Weekly Feel Good Friday Roundup: Fourth Edition

For many of us, weekends are for running errands, spending time with family, and fitting in some “me time” when we can. If you’re looking for an easy activity that boosts relaxation, browse our uplifting content! Check out these three inspiring stories in the fourth-edition of our weekly “Feel Good Friday Roundup” series that will make you feel happy the entire weekend.

1. Baltimore Museum of Art Employees Curate ‘Guarding the Art’ Exhibit

Looking to get out of the house? Take a trip to your local art museum to appreciate the beautiful drawings and paintings. The Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) is taking this experience a step further with their latest exhibit, which features artwork selected by their on-staff security officers.

The exhibit (cleverly titled “Guarding the Art”) gives 17 BMA security officers the opportunity to get directly involved in presenting artwork for the museum’s visitors.

“As guest curators, the officers will collaborate with leadership and staff across the museum to select and reinterpret works. In addition, the team is working with renowned art historian and curator Dr. Lowery Stokes Sims, who is providing additional mentorship and professional development,” a statement from the BMA reads.

“The group reflects a broad range of backgrounds and interests with officers who are also artists, chefs, musicians, scholars, and writers.”

The exhibit is currently running from now until July 10. So, it’s definitely worth putting on your bucket list to visit this spring or summer!

Want a sneak peak of the exhibit? Watch security officer and guest curator Elise Tensley speak about the inspiration behind the artwork she chose to feature in the exhibit.

2. WWII Veteran Honored As Hometown Hero for His Decades of Service

Paying it forward to those who help others is key for showing appreciation toward their acts of service. This is why Ray Ferman of Sherman, TX was named hometown hero earlier this month! The 96-year-old was honored for his decades-long commitment to serving his country and local community.

Ferman served in the U.S. Air Force from 1943 to 1963, during which time he fought in WWII and the Korean War. Following his military career, Ferman volunteered at his nearby senior center and delivering food for Meals on Wheels.

“Fortunately, I could serve my country, and when I got back, I was fortunate enough to have good health, and I could serve my community,” he told KWTX.

While Ferman doesn’t consider himself to be a hero, his son Rodger thinks otherwise: “He’s kind and thoughtful, and honest as the day is long. That’s kind of what makes him our hero.”

Rayce Guess, founder of Hometown Heroes, spoke more about recognizing Ferman for his good deeds. “Servant’s heart, like it says, Jesus was a King, but he came to serve, and so Ray epitomizes that, and he’s serving even now. What more can you say about that?,” he said.

3. A 9-Year-Old Raises Over $1,000 for Animals in Need

Donations and generous acts go a long way for dogs, cats, and other animals that are in need. This is very much true for 9-year-old Ben Miller of Boise, ID who recently raised $1,150 dollars for the Idaho Humane Society (IHS) through his yearly lemonade stand.

“I started [the lemonade stand fundraiser] two years back and the first time I donated about $200 dollars, and the second time I donated about $600, and this time about $1,150,” Ben told KTVB. “I usually sell lemonade, lavender lemonade, cookies, and dog treats.”

The third-grader’s mom, Amy, explained to KTVB that her son has always had a lifelong passion for animals, especially cats.

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“He has just always loved animals, everything from saving ‘rolly pollies’ on our walks to reptiles … He would spend every dollar of that money adopting every cat here if I would let him,” she said.

“I’m so proud of him and his heart, he makes me so happy.”

Kristine Schellhaas, communications manager for the IHS, also expressed the organization’s gratitude for Miller’s kind donation. “We are always in short supply of cat donations, and since Ben loves cats, we’ll definitely use it to help cats!”