It’s hard not to get a little spooked at night if you’re walking around the Grand Traverse Commons. Surrounded by thick forest, the turreted buildings of Traverse City’s former mental asylum loom out of the darkness like ruined castles, filled with strange shadows and furtive rustlings.

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Taken by Scott Feldstein

This PHOTO MOMENT of the metal sculpture of Jesus was captured by photographer Scott Feldstein.

by Michel Gerard

Looking for something new to do? Phuket has been known as one of the best tourist spots all over Asia. It has offered many beautiful places for sightseeing, and many activities for those who have a thirst for adventure. Now, there’s something more that the hot spot is willing to offer to foreign and local vacationers: Sailing and scuba diving.

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For many, summer ushers in opportunities for vacations and leisure activities. But for Spencer West, who at the age of five lost his legs, this summer will be marked by a challenging climb up Mt. Kilimanjaro with the goal of raising money for international charity Free The Children.

West, along with two friends, will begin the eight-day trek on June 12, hoping to raise $750,000 for Free The Children and bring sustainable clean water programming to thousands of Kenyans who last year experienced the region’s worst drought in 60 years. West is encouraging supporters to help him reach his goal by each donating $10, sponsoring one step in Spencer’s almost 20,000 foot journey up the tallest mountain in Africa.

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(c) stephskardal

United Airlines responded to an active social campaign by revising its pet policy and removing an embargo on nine breeds of dog they deemed “dangerous”.  Under the new policy, the previously restricted breeds can now fly in reinforced crates.  Until now, United was the only US-based airline to place a “dangerous” label on certain breeds in its pet policy.

The policy shift follows a campaign on Change.org started by Hawaii resident Jessie Huart after her 10-year-old pit bull was denied travel.   ”All dogs, regardless of breed, should be able to fly safely,” Huart added. “The new requirement of reinforced crates improves the safety of the dogs and is something United should consider extending to all large dogs.”

United heard the cries of its customers, over 45,000 petition signers and animal advocacy groups and decided to change it pet restriction policy, accordingly.