We hope you had a great weekend. Today’s stories include a group of outdoor dogs rescued from a Missouri winter storm, with one giving birth to nine puppies soon after arriving at the shelter.

In Maryland, two teens built an igloo that brought neighbors together after an ice storm, turning a burned lot into a gathering place. A math teacher from Solihull just became the UK’s top female Scrabble champ, thanks in part to her knowledge of two-letter words.

And in India, rescued elephants are finding relief from chronic pain through acupuncture, a treatment more often used for people. Each story offers a look at small actions that made a difference.

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—Stephanie S

© ARC

GOOD ANIMALS

18 Outdoor Dogs Saved from Winter Storm as One Welcomes Puppies in Warm Shelter

As a winter storm swept through southeast Missouri, a group of 18 outdoor dogs found themselves in real danger. Thanks to the quick action of the property owners and the Animal Rescue Corps, these dogs were brought to safety just in time.

One of the rescued dogs, heavily pregnant, gave birth to nine healthy puppies soon after arriving at the shelter. The image of new life beginning in a warm, safe place feels especially poignant against the backdrop of a harsh winter.

What stands out is the compassion shown by everyone involved. The property owners recognized they were overwhelmed and reached out for help, and the rescue team responded without judgment, focusing on care and recovery.

Stories like this remind us that asking for help can be an act of love, and that even in the coldest moments, warmth can be found in unexpected places. What will become of these puppies as they start their new lives?

© Adeline Sutich and Maeve Ritchotte

GOOD COMMUNITY

Teens Unite Neighborhood with Epic Igloo After Devastating Ice Storm

After a tough ice storm in Maryland, two teens decided to turn frustration into something joyful. They built an igloo on the site of a house that had burned down, inviting neighbors to gather, sign a guest book, and share a little hope.

The whole family pitched in, working into the night with headlamps and plenty of laughter. The igloo quickly became a cozy hangout and a symbol of rebuilding.

It’s a sweet reminder that even a snowstorm can bring people together. Take a look at the photos and see the smiles for yourself.

© Natalie Zolty

GOOD PEOPLE

Math Teacher Wins UK Scrabble Title and Shares Secret 2-Letter Words Pros Swear By

A math teacher from the UK just became the country’s top female Scrabble champ, beating out a grandmaster with some seriously strategic wordplay. Her secret? Mastering those quirky two-letter words like “za” and “qi” that rack up big points.

She spends hours a day studying the dictionary and practicing anagrams, all while watching TV. Her advice for aspiring players is refreshingly simple: start with the basics and don’t be afraid to swap out bad tiles.

If you’re curious about the world of competitive Scrabble or just want to up your game, this story is a fun read with plenty of tips to try out yourself.

© Wildlife SOS

GOOD NATURE

Acupuncture Brings Healing Touch to Rescued Elephants Suffering Chronic Pain in India

India’s largest wildlife rescue group is using acupuncture to help rescued elephants recover from chronic pain and nerve damage. After years of hard labor, these gentle giants are finally getting relief thanks to a blend of ancient techniques and modern veterinary care.

The results are pretty amazing. Elephants like Bani, Holly, and Raju are moving better, feeling less pain, and even overcoming digestive issues.

Curious how acupuncture works on a creature this big? Take a look at the full story for some uplifting science in action.

GOOD NEWS AROUND THE WORLD

🐮 China: The Chinese Year of the Fire Horse is predicted to bring a mix of chaos and bold opportunities, urging people to balance passionate action with caution.

🐩 USA: The Great Backyard Bird Count invites people worldwide to spend at least 15 minutes counting birds in their communities this February.

🧠 Massachusetts: Lithium research may lead to treatments preventing or reversing Alzheimer’s disease.

🌌 Maine: Maine enacts law limiting outdoor lights to reduce light pollution and safeguard wildlife.

🧬 Canada: SickKids begins sequencing 11,100 genomes of Black Canadians to help improve precision medicine and health outcomes.

THIS DAY IN HISTORY: February 2, 1876

The National League Is Founded, Giving Rise to Modern Professional Baseball

150 years ago today, the National League of Professional Baseball Clubs was officially formed, becoming the oldest professional team sports league still in existence worldwide. Established in the United States, the National League would later become one of the two foundational leagues that make up Major League Baseball (MLB) in the U.S. and Canada.

At the time, professional baseball was loosely organized and plagued by financial instability and inconsistent rules. The National League introduced centralized governance, standardized scheduling, and stronger contracts, helping transform baseball from a regional pastime into a national institution. Twenty-five years later, the American League was founded, and after intense rivalry and negotiation, the two leagues formally recognized each other as equals. Beginning in 1903, their champions would face off in an annual championship series, the first World Series, a tradition that continues today.

Other notable February 2 events:

1653: New York City, then called New Amsterdam, was officially incorporated.

1922: James Joyce published Ulysses, now considered one of the greatest novels ever written.

1943: Nazi forces were defeated at the Battle of Stalingrad, marking a decisive WWII turning point.

1990: South African President F. W. de Klerk announced reforms that began dismantling apartheid.

WORDS TO INSPIRE

The love of gardening is a seed once sown that never dies.

— Gertrude Jekyll

WHAT A TIME TO BE ALIVE

Good news is such a vibe

Every day brings amazing advances and uplifting moments that remind us just how wonderful the world can be. Here are five reasons why today is the best time ever to be alive:

đŸ©ž Glucose Wearables: Advanced wearable glucose monitors are revolutionizing diabetes management.

đŸ“č Wildlife Cams: Wildlife cams are bringing live nature into classrooms and inspiring young conservationists.

🧬 Drug Discovery: AI-powered drug discovery is accelerating treatments for rare genetic conditions.

đŸ’» Virtual Internships: Virtual internships are giving students real-world experience regardless of location.

📖 Story Nights: Community storytelling nights are strengthening bonds and preserving cultural heritage.

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