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Historic Axe Head With a Root for a Handle Found In Kansas Yard

Storms are notorious for tearing things up, causing damage, and generally creating a big mess. However, in Kansas, they are also known for uncovering things that have been buried for decades, maybe even centuries. During one such downpour and blowing mess, Matthew Decker noted something out of place. As if it had been put in front of Decker’s path immaculately, there was an axe head with a tree root for a handle.

Stopping in his tracks to figure out what exactly he was looking at, Decker used his foot to uncover the odd finding and expose it. Instead, even more of the root came up, essentially providing the length of a naturally made tool handle. The whole assembly looked like something out of a movie, making Decker think for a moment about when Thor or Odin were going to show up and claim their lost property any second later.

The weight of the root and axe head was notable. As he held it, the surprise of the whole thing had the man standing in the middle of the gale, and all he could think about was how crazy, amazing the whole discovery was. It helped that Decker already had a primed imagination from his long-time interest in the Lord of the Rings storyline and the video game, Elder Scrolls: Skyrim.

Once he got inside and dried off, Decker took photos of his axe discovery and posted them on Reddit, practically launching the whole event from his backyard into digital Sputnik orbit. The photo and comments took off like wildfire with kerosene added for good measure. Decker simply summed up the photo as a tree root grown through an axe he found in his yard.

Of course, given popular themes, lots of folks compared the axe head to Nordic myths and Hollywood replicas of Asgardian weaponry. One reader even went so far as to tell Decker he could rightfully take the title of Thor as a joke. The combination of being out in a storm when finding the axe head added to its Internet mythology.

However, others noted that Decker should run with the event and add to its story, give the event some embellishment and make the most of his 15 minutes of fame. Instead, Decker has decided to be a bit more practical; the axe head and root are for sale if there is a willing buyer. It’s not out of greed though; the funds could really help Decker take care of his sick cat and the related vet bills. The animal’s recent downturn hasn’t helped its owner’s finances, which were already tight. Ideally, Decker hopes a museum or similar venue wants to buy the axe head.

In the meantime, Decker is enjoying his claim to fame and all the attention it’s been getting. He knows the fuss won’t last forever. That said, the axe head itself has done a pretty good job of outlasting history so far, even when taken over by a tree.

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From Wheels to Wonder: Paralysed Skater Transforms Old Boards into Bold Sculptures

Kevin Wells

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When Nick Harding lost the ability to skateboard, he never imagined he’d find a new way to stay connected to his lifelong passion — through art.

In 2019, Nick was suddenly paralysed by Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), a rare auto-immune condition where the immune system attacks the nervous system. What started as a sore hamstring quickly escalated into a medical emergency. Within an hour of arriving at the hospital, he was on life support. He spent 13 weeks in intensive care at Southmead Hospital in Bristol and seven months in recovery, relearning how to walk and use his arms.

“Skating has always been a huge part of my life,” Nick said. “Having an outlet for that desire to play with my favourite toy is what brought the sculptures about.”

With his old decks stacked in a corner and his body still rebuilding strength, Nick began experimenting. His early attempts to make practical items were shaky — his hands lacked coordination — so instead, he focused on creating something beautiful. With no prior carpentry experience, he turned to YouTube tutorials, teaching himself to shape, sand, and finish colorful, psychedelic forms from the layered wood of worn-out skateboards.

The process helped rebuild his dexterity, but it also served as a mental anchor. “I just focused on doing a little bit every day,” he said. “It was the process that felt good when I was at my lowest.”

Now, Nick sells his sculptures through his Etsy shop Mobius Maples and has gained fans from around the world. His pieces — all carved from donated, broken, or retired boards — are abstract, swirling forms that capture the movement and spirit of skateboarding.

But for Nick, it’s not just about the art or even the recovery. It’s about staying connected to the Bristol skate scene that shaped him. He donates pieces to skate competitions and charity auctions and even hides small keychains around the city for his Instagram followers to find.

“It wouldn’t be anything if it was just me,” he said. “It’s also people who give me their old boards. Interacting with the art and letting me be involved with things is what’s kept it going.”

“I want it to be something that adds to the community, and I’m so grateful that I still have the opportunity to do that.”

Through creativity, community, and resilience, Nick Harding has transformed adversity into something both healing and inspiring — turning the boards that once carried him across pavement into lasting works of art.

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Community Petition Saves Wally the Beaver from Euthanasia

Shannon Jackson

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Wally, a beloved beaver who became a community favorite in Northern Virginia, was saved from euthanasia thanks to the efforts of thousands of supporters who rallied together through an online petition.

Wally first gained popularity at Huntley Meadows Park in Fairfax County, where locals and visitors often saw him hard at work building dams. However, wildlife officials considered euthanizing him after concerns arose over flooding and tree damage caused by his dam-building activities.

The community swiftly stepped in, launching a petition that quickly gathered over 10,000 signatures. Advocates argued that the beaver’s positive impact on the ecosystem—creating wetlands and habitats for other wildlife—far outweighed any inconveniences.

Local officials eventually agreed, opting instead for a humane relocation effort. Wally will now be safely moved to a suitable habitat rather than being euthanized.

“This shows how much our community values wildlife,” said Julie Ames, the petition’s creator. “We’re thrilled our voices were heard.”

Residents celebrated the decision, highlighting how Wally’s survival symbolizes the growing awareness of peaceful coexistence with local wildlife.

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Third Eaglet Joins Big Bear’s Beloved Bald Eagle Family

Renee Yates

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A third eaglet hatched yesterday in the much-loved bald eagle nest near Big Bear Lake, marking a delightful moment for the growing number of wildlife enthusiasts who have been closely watching the family online.

The nest, located in the San Bernardino National Forest near Big Bear, California, has been streaming live via the Friends of Big Bear Valley eagle cam. Observers were excited to witness the third chick hatch, a significant event considering that bald eagles usually lay two eggs, with three being somewhat unusual.

The parents, affectionately named Jackie and Shadow, are local celebrities among bird watchers. According to the Friends of Big Bear Valley, these parents have gained fame for their caring behavior, ensuring their chicks remain healthy and thriving despite the occasional harsh weather conditions.

“The hatch was smooth and perfectly timed,” said Sandy Steers, executive director of Friends of Big Bear Valley. “It’s heartwarming to see this family continue to flourish.”

Wildlife experts emphasize the importance of maintaining a respectful distance, reminding the public that the best way to enjoy and protect these birds is by observing remotely via the eagle cam.

Viewers can continue to monitor the eaglets’ development, celebrating each milestone as the chicks grow into young eagles over the coming weeks.

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Pocatello’s Last Video Rental Store Preserves Tradition for Devoted Patron

Renee Yates

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In an era where digital streaming dominates, the closure of Video Stop marked the end of an era for Pocatello, Idaho. However, for one loyal customer, the spirit of the traditional video rental experience continues, thanks to the store owner’s thoughtful initiative.

For over 15 years, 35-year-old Christina Cavanaugh, who has Down syndrome and is mostly nonverbal, maintained a cherished routine of visiting Video Stop almost daily with her mother, Toni. This ritual was integral to Christina’s daily life, providing her with joy and consistency. The prospect of the store’s closure posed a significant disruption to her routine, causing concern for Toni about how to explain the change to her daughter.

Understanding the importance of this routine to Christina, Video Stop’s owner, David Kraning, decided to preserve a portion of the store’s collection. He dedicated a corner in his adjacent business, K & B Kwik Stop, to house these movies, ensuring Christina could continue her beloved visits. This thoughtful gesture not only maintained a sense of normalcy for Christina but also highlighted the deep bonds formed between local businesses and their patrons.​

Toni expressed immense relief and gratitude for Kraning’s actions, likening the news to “being sentenced to prison and then getting a reprieve.” She praised the community-oriented approach of Kraning and his staff, who have always been attentive to Christina’s unique needs, even training new employees on how to interact with her during checkout.

While the era of video rental stores may be fading, the compassion and dedication demonstrated by Kraning ensure that, for Christina, the magic of selecting a physical movie remains alive. This story serves as a heartwarming reminder of the impact local businesses can have on the lives of their customers, going beyond transactions to form meaningful, supportive relationships.

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Former Student’s Surprise $1.8 Million Gift Stuns Wisconsin High School

Shannon Jackson

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In an age where school budgets are often stretched thin, a small-town Wisconsin high school received an astonishing financial windfall from a former student. Osceola High School, nestled in the tight-knit Village of Osceola, recently learned that a graduate from the Class of 1947, Millicent “Milly” Lindahl, left the school $1.8 million—with more still to come.

A Gift from the Past

Superintendent Becky Styles recalls the moment she learned of the unexpected donation.

“We were absolutely dumbfounded by the amount,” she said. “This doesn’t happen in public schools very often.”

While Milly Lindahl—who later became Milly Chapman—was not widely known in the community, her legacy is now impossible to ignore. A look through old yearbooks revealed she was an active student, participating in the drama club, yearbook committee, school newspaper, and even serving as a cheerleader.

After graduating in 1947, Milly moved away and lived a private life in Maple Grove, Minnesota, with her husband. With no children or immediate family, she made a decision that ensured her name would live on in Osceola—leaving her estate to the high school that had brought her joy in her youth.

Remembering Milly

While details of her later life remain scarce, Superintendent Styles and the local historical society have pieced together a portrait of a woman who cherished her high school years.

“I think it was a place where she found herself, where she could be who she wanted to be,” Styles said. “It was one of the happiest times of her life, and that’s what she held on to.”

Milly and her husband lived quietly, seemingly well within their means. Though her name may have faded from memory in Osceola, her generosity ensures she will be remembered for generations to come.

A Lasting Legacy for Students

Now, the school faces a major decision—how to use the money in a way that honors Milly’s legacy. While many ideas have been floated, Superintendent Styles emphasized that the funds should have a long-term impact rather than being used for short-term needs.

Possible projects include:

  • A student commons area to foster community and connection.
  • A performance space named in Milly’s honor, recognizing her love of drama and school activities.
  • Scholarships or academic programs to support future students.

Before making any final decisions, the school plans to involve the community and wait for the estate to be fully settled.

One thing is certain—Milly Lindahl’s generosity will shape the future of Osceola High School, just as her time there shaped her.

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