The Uplift: America the beautiful
To mark the 250th anniversary of the United States this year, we are sharing what makes the country great from A to Z. This week, sixth graders share why they find America beautiful.
The Uplift
Stories that uplift and inspire
New episodes monthly on the CBS News app.
The Uplift: A surprise from Shaq
Shaquille O'Neal steps in to a young 7-foot-3 police recruit from Texas. Plus, a behind-the-scenes look at the reality competition show "The Traitors," and more heartwarming news.
The Uplift: Daddy daughter dance
David Begnaud takes us to a Louisiana prison where fatherhood is the focus. He meets inmates who got the chance to take part in a daddy-daughter dance and reconnect with their kids. Plus, more heartwarming news.
The Uplift: New beginnings
A boy who faced life-changing challenges gets by with help from his friends. A group of retired teachers gets together to continue the passion of helping kids. Plus, more good news.
The Uplift: Made with love
Visit a Uyghur restaurant in Southern California, where culture is shared and the food is made with love. Plus, a man who wanted to save his friends life by donating a kidney ends up saving his own life.
Latest Stories
Good news you may have missed in 2025
The bad news from the past year (and there was a lot of it) drowned out much of the GOOD news that made smaller headlines. David Pogue reports on some of 2025's best underreported stories.
Steps of Faith: How "Ted Lasso" star Jason Sudeikis and friends brought hope and charity to amputees
An annual fundraiser in Kansas City called Thundergong! has helped more than 2,000 amputees around the country pay for prosthetic limbs through the Steps of Faith Foundation.
Metallica's gift of giving
The heavy metal band has not only changed lives with their music; they've also changed lives with their philanthropy – from donations to food banks and disaster relief, to their charity, All Within My Hands, which has donated to workforce education and other critical services.
A friendship forged from the Unabomber's violence
A tip from David Kaczynski led to the capture of the Unabomber – who happened to be his own brother. Ted Koppel talks with Kaczynski about his relationship with his sibling, and about the friendship he later developed with one of the Unabomber's victims.
A custodian earns 4 degrees and a mailman adopts his best friend
Texas custodian Jessica Caldwell earned four degrees while working nights and raising four kids. A local mailman adopted a dog from his old route.
10 of Pope Francis' most heartwarming moments
From spinning with the Harlem Globetrotters to signing a Harley-Davidson, here are 10 memorable moments from Pope Francis' papacy.
Duo Team aiming to compete in 6th major marathon shares journey
Michael Sayih and Max Fink have finished the Chicago, New York, Boston, London and Berlin marathons together. They hope to complete the Tokyo Marathon this year.
The top 10 uplifting news stories of 2024
2024 was filled with breaking political news, international and domestic conflicts and world-changing events – but there was also heartwarming and good news. Here are the top 10 uplifting news stories of 2024.
Combating Parkinson's with rock climbing
There is currently no cure for Parkinson's Disease. But some with Parkinson's are finding that an unusual therapy – rock climbing – is helping them improve their balance, mobility, strength and cognition.
Woman reuniting photos lost in Hurricane Helene with families who own them
After Hurricane Helene, Taylor Schenker found herself with about 200 family photos that didn't belong to her. Now, she's hoping to reunite them with the people they belong to.
Latest Videos
Latest Videos
Child's jokes show love's lasting strength
In Louisiana, 9-year-old Nora Vaughn has turned laughter into a mission of love. Her 14-year-old sister, Susie, was diagnosed with Rett syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder with no known cure, at age 3, inspiring Nora to take action.
Sponsored
After 15 years, this teacher and her star student still share a musical bond
Gia Martinez's first music class was 15 years ago, when she was a third grader at PS 48 in the Bronx. That happened to be the first year her teacher, Melissa Salguero, was teaching at the school. All these years later, the teacher still remembers her former start student — and they still share a musical bond.
Duo set to complete 6 major marathons
Michael Sayih and Max Fink have a special bond — they're regular racing partners who compete in countless 5K, Iron Man and marathon events all over the world. Michael has cerebral palsy, and started racing at 5 years old. Max has his own reason to race: to honor his mom, who died from breast cancer. He believes she brought him and Michael together. They are now attempting to complete all six Abbott World Marathon Majors. They only have one race left to reach their goal: Tokyo.
California couple's love surpassed all odds
For Elizabeth Wampler, it was not love or even like at first sight when she met her future husband. Now, 30 years later, she says her unfounded assumptions about his cerebral palsy were "wrong on all counts." In the week before Valentine's Day, CBS News is featuring stories about love that blossomed despite unimaginable odds. We call this series Love, Against All Odds.
Dogs stuck during fires saved by CBS News crew
It was a dramatic rescue. CBS News correspondent Jonathan Vigliotti was contacted by a stranger who told him his three rescue dogs were stuck inside his Pacific Palisades house — alone — as the Palisades Fire closed in. Jonathan and his producer, who were reporting nearby, did not hesitate to help — risking their lives to save all three dogs.
Reuniting people with photos lost in Helene
After Hurricane Helene tore through six states, Taylor Schenker went for a walk in hard-hit Asheville, North Carolina. As she dug through the debris and mud, she found family photos that got lost in the storm. Now, she's hoping to use her Photos from Helene Instagram page to help reunite the images with the families who own them.
Ceramic donuts go viral
Jeff Nebeker celebrates the success of his viral ceramic donuts, which sold out in just three minutes after being posted by gallery owner Michelle O'Brien. Over 9,000 people are on the email list for the next restock.
Shania Twain brings 81-year-old fan onstage
Shania Twain invited an 81-year-old superfan – who has been attending her shows for 25 years – onstage at her concert in England.
U.S.
More U.S.
Gerber recalls some arrowroot biscuits over potential plastic, paper pieces
The recall affects several batches of the 5.5-ounce Gerber Arrowroot Biscuits, the FDA said.
Bessent defends Powell probe: "Independence does not mean no accountability"
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent tells CBS News that Federal Reserve officials must be "beyond reproach" in communicating with the public.
Senate Democrats release demands as clock ticks toward partial government shutdown
Senate Democrats released their list of demands to reform immigration enforcement and fund the government Wednesday, with little time to avert a partial government shutdown.
Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase to contribute $1,000 to Trump Accounts
Two of the biggest U.S. banks said they would match a $1,000 federal contribution for employees who open a Trump Account, touting the plan as a way to save money.
Fed holds interest rates steady in first meeting of 2026
The Federal Open Market Committee kept the federal funds rate steady, following three rate cuts last year.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Bessent defends Powell probe: "Independence does not mean no accountability"
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent tells CBS News that Federal Reserve officials must be "beyond reproach" in communicating with the public.
Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase to contribute $1,000 to Trump Accounts
Two of the biggest U.S. banks said they would match a $1,000 federal contribution for employees who open a Trump Account, touting the plan as a way to save money.
Fed holds interest rates steady in first meeting of 2026
The Federal Open Market Committee kept the federal funds rate steady, following three rate cuts last year.
Are Trump's tariffs fueling a boom in trade deals for China and India?
As Trump's unpredictable tariff tactics prompt longtime U.S. trade partners to find alternatives, India and China seem happy to step in and get deals done.
Apple's Tim Cook calls for "de-escalation" after Alex Pretti's killing
Cook is joining other CEOs in weighing in on federal immigration enforcement following Pretti's killing on Jan. 24.
Politics
More Politics
Bessent defends Powell probe: "Independence does not mean no accountability"
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent tells CBS News that Federal Reserve officials must be "beyond reproach" in communicating with the public.
Senate Democrats release demands as clock ticks toward partial government shutdown
Senate Democrats released their list of demands to reform immigration enforcement and fund the government Wednesday, with little time to avert a partial government shutdown.
Federal agents involved in Pretti shooting placed on administrative leave, source says
The federal agents who were involved in Saturday's deadly shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis have been placed on administrative leave, a federal law enforcement official confirmed to CBS News.
FBI executing search order at Fulton County elections hub
FBI agents are executing a search at a warehouse that serves as Fulton County's election hub.
9 anti-ICE protesters arrested at Sen. Collins' Portland office
Police arrested nine people who were protesting against ICE at Sen. Susan Collins' Portland, Maine office.
HealthWatch
More HealthWatch
Gerber recalls some arrowroot biscuits over potential plastic, paper pieces
The recall affects several batches of the 5.5-ounce Gerber Arrowroot Biscuits, the FDA said.
South Carolina measles outbreak now larger than Texas' in 2025, new data shows
South Carolina's measles outbreak has grown to include 789 cases. A West Texas outbreak last year sickened 762 people.
Trump policies at odds with emerging understanding of COVID's long-term harm
Studies offer insights into the health risks and burdens faced by people who have had COVID infections. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has narrowed COVID vaccine recommendations and cut research.
Pediatrics group releases vaccine recommendations, breaks with CDC
The AAP is recommending immunization against 18 diseases. Earlier this month, the CDC reduced its recommendations for childhood vaccines to 11 diseases.
Academy of Pediatrics vaccine reccomendations
The American Academy of Pediatrics released its own recommendations for childhood vaccinations Monday. The list differs significantly from the reduced vaccine schedule released earlier this month by the CDC. Dr. Amanda Kravitz, pediatrician at Weill Cornell in New York City, joins CBS News to discuss.
World
More World
Ancient species that survived mass extinction event found in China
The fossils offer a rare glimpse into a cataclysmic event that brought a sudden end to the greatest explosion of life in our planet's history.
Analysts say Starlink may have guided Russian drones into a Ukrainian train
As Ukraine accuses Russia of terrorism with a deadly strike on a train, some defense analysts believe Elon Musk's Starlink may have guided the killer drones.
Colombian security forces kill 5 members of powerful cocaine cartel
President Donald Trump is set to host Gustavo Petro at the White House for talks on combatting drug trafficking from Colombia, the world's top cocaine producer.
Are Trump's tariffs fueling a boom in trade deals for China and India?
As Trump's unpredictable tariff tactics prompt longtime U.S. trade partners to find alternatives, India and China seem happy to step in and get deals done.
Australia kills wild dogs linked to death of woman, sparking backlash
Australian authorities said six wild dogs were put down after 19-year-old backpacker Piper James's body was found at a beach on the island of K'gari.
Entertainment
More Entertainment
Bruce Springsteen releases new song, "Streets of Minneapolis"
Bruce Springsteen has released a song in honor of Alex Pretti and Renee Good titled "Streets of Minneapolis."
Peyton List on new season of "School Spirits"
Peyton List, who stars in the series "School Spirits" talks to "CBS Mornings" about the show's third season, her desire for her character to get closure and performing in off-Broadway's "Heathers The Musical."
Rosé opens up about success, self-doubt
Singer Rosé is the first K-pop star to have a song nominated in the Grammy's main categories, including record of the year and song of the year. She spoke to "CBS Mornings" about why she's still coming to terms with her success.
Natalia Lafourcade reflects on music career
Natalia Lafourcade is the most awarded woman in Latin Grammy history with 20 awards. This year, she's up for best Latin pop album at the Grammys, which would be her fifth Grammy if she wins. Lafourcade spoke to Anthony Mason about her music journey and rise to fame.
Ye, formerly Kanye West, reveals brain injury, apologizes for antisemitic remarks
In a full-page ad in the Wall Street Journal, Ye, the artist formerly known as Kanye West, revealed that the right frontal lobe of his brain was injured in a car accident 25 years ago.
Technology
More Technology
Analysts say Starlink may have guided Russian drones into a Ukrainian train
As Ukraine accuses Russia of terrorism with a deadly strike on a train, some defense analysts believe Elon Musk's Starlink may have guided the killer drones.
TikTok's new privacy policy is sparking a backlash. Here's what to know.
Some TikTok users are raising questions about the app's new terms and conditions after the social media platform's split from its China-based parent.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Newsom launches probe into TikTok
The new American version of TikTok is under scrutiny as some users claim the app is suppressing anti-ICE or anti-Trump content. Now, California Gov. Gavin Newsom is launching an investigation into the complaints. CBS News MoneyWatch correspondent Kelly O'Grady reports.
Social media addiction case begins
A jury selection began on Tuesday in a landmark trial over alleged social media addiction. TikTok reached a late-night agreement Monday to settle the case. Stuart Benjamin, a professor at Duke Law School, breaks it down.
Science
More Science
Mysterious dark matter seen in new map of distant galaxies
Dark matter doesn't absorb or give off light so scientists can't study it directly. But they can observe how its gravity warps and bends the star stuff around it.
Cow develops technique to scratch herself
"CBS Saturday Morning" learns more about Veronika, the clever cow who figured out multiple ways to scratch herself with a broom. It was the first time a cow was seen using a tool.
Almanac: January 18
"Sunday Morning" looks back at historical events on this date.
Fossils found at Dinosaur National Monument, first excavation in 100 years
The Dinosaur National Monument, which is located on the border between Colorado and Utah, was last excavated in 1924.
Dogs can learn by eavesdropping: study
Have you ever wondered if your dog is eavesdropping on you? A new study published in the Journal of Science found that some dogs are not only listening, but are also learning words. Lead scientist Dr. Shany Dror joins CBS News to discuss.
Crime
More Crime
Crime
Details on man who charged at Rep. Omar
More details are emerging about 55-year-old Anthony Kazmierczak, the man detained after charging at Minnesota Rep. Ilhan Omar during a town hall meeting on Tuesday. CBS News' Ian Lee reports.
Colombian security forces kill 5 members of powerful cocaine cartel
President Donald Trump is set to host Gustavo Petro at the White House for talks on combatting drug trafficking from Colombia, the world's top cocaine producer.
Man to be sentenced for Iranian's murder plot
CBS News contributor Masih Alinejad is expected in court to face the man convicted of plotting to kill her. CBS News' Katrina Kaufman reports.
New details in shooting of Indiana judge
Authorities say the shooting of an Indiana judge and his wife in their home was a gang attack and a planned assassination attempt. Five people were arrested last week and charged in the shooting. Jericka Duncan reports.
Government report on Alex Pretti shooting
A U.S. Customs and Border Protection report shared with Congress does not mention Alex Pretti reaching for his firearm before he was killed, as alleged by Trump administration officials. CBS News' Matt Gutman reports.
Space
More Space
Mysterious dark matter seen in new map of distant galaxies
Dark matter doesn't absorb or give off light so scientists can't study it directly. But they can observe how its gravity warps and bends the star stuff around it.
More on Virgin Galactic all-female space crew
Virgin Galactic is sending an all-female research team to space. Kellie Gerardi, who is leading the crew, joins "CBS News 24/7 Mornings" to discuss the goals of the mission.
NASA's Artemis II mission clears big hurdle
Inch by inch, NASA's Artemis II moon rocket lumbered along its four-mile commute from the Vehicle Assembly Building to launch pad 39-B. Mark Strassmann is at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida with more.
NASA hauls Artemis II moon rocket to launch pad for February flight
Four Artemis II astronauts plan to fly around the moon and back next month, traveling farther from Earth than any humans before them.
NASA begins Artemis II rollout to launchpad
NASA is beginning its rollout of its Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft as preparations for the Artemis II mission enter their final stage.
Latest Galleries
More Latest Galleries
Notable Deaths in 2025
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
Trump reacts to attack against Rep. Omar
Rep. Ilhan Omar was holding a town hall in Minneapolis Tuesday when a man rushed her and sprayed her with an unknown substance. President Trump later told ABC News he had not seen video of the incident, but said, without evidence, "She probably had herself sprayed, knowing her." CBS News' Fin Gomez reports.
Rubio on state of illegal ships in Venezuela
In response to a question from Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas at a Senate hearing on Wednesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the interim Venezuelan government is helping identify the "shadow fleet ships" used to evade oil sanctions.
Latest details on attack against Rep. Omar
A man charged at Rep. Ilhan Omar and sprayed her with a substance during a town hall Tuesday night in Minneapolis. Anthony Kazmierczak, 55, has been arrested on suspicion of third degree assault, the Minneapolis Police Department told CBS News. CBS News Zak Hudak and Fin Gomez have more.
Rubio asked about Venezuela elections
GOP Sen. Rick Scott of Florida questioned Secretary of State Marco Rubio about the Trump administration's expectations for elections in Venezuela after the capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. "We want a Venezuela that has legitimate democratic elections," Rubio said.
Bessent hits back on Trump accounts criticism
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent pushed back on some of the "terrible criticism" the Trump Accounts have received, including that it could widen the wealth gap in America. "It's just because President Trump has sponsored it, they don't agree with it," Bessent told "CBS Saturday Morning" co-host Kelly O'Grady.