It wasn’t all bad
■ In 2020, researchers came across a 15-ton meteorite in Somalia, which they determined was the ninth largest ever recorded on earth. Although it was new to investigators, the camel herders who live nearby said they’ve known about the rock for five generations and even incorporated it into songs, poems, and dances. A Canadian lab recently ran tests on the stone, called “Nightfall” by locals, and determined it contains at least two minerals—named elaliite and elkinstantonite by researchers—never seen before in a naturally occurring state. ■ Jaclyn Gartner couldn’t find a home for a lovable boxer–pit bull mix at her Connecticut rescue shelter.The pup, named Van Gogh, had only one ear after surviving a dog fight.
After seeing videos of dogs painting, Gartner thought she saw an angle: She placed globs of paint on canvas, sealed it in plastic wrap, and coated it with peanut butter. Van
Gogh licked the paint into dramatic streaks, resulting in an abstract painting. Gartner’s plan worked: Van Gogh’s works raised $3,000 for the shelter—and he was quickly adopted. “Whenever he sees a Ziploc bag and a jar of peanut butter,” said Van Gogh’s new owner, Jessica Starowitz, “he knows it’s time to paint.” ■ As the U.K. contends with an energy crisis, a rural baker has vowed to help his neighbors bake Christmas cakes in his ovens for free. Ed Hamilton-Trewhitt, from the English town of Guisborough, took inspiration from ancient societies that used communal ovens as central gathering places.This isn’t his first foray into community service: In September, he used his ovens to create a “warm lounge” for neighbors who couldn’t afford to run their heat at home. “What an amazing thing to give back to your customers and community,” said local Sharon Bulmer. “May your kindness be rewarded.”