Good Morning 🌞

Another week in the books. Whether it was productive, challenging, or somewhere in between, today’s a good time to pause, take stock, and reset.

In this issue, we’ve gathered a few useful insights and small wins to carry you into the weekend with clarity and perspective. No frills—just a solid wrap-up to the week.

Let’s make the most of the day!

Environment

New Species Found!

High in the misty peaks of northern Peru, scientists have uncovered three entirely new frog species—hidden gems of biodiversity that had gone unnoticed until now. Found between 2021 and 2024 during rugged expeditions through the Cordillera de Huancabamba, these frogs were discovered in remote forests and along mountain trails with no road access. The findings, now published in Evolutionary Systematics, highlight how much of the Andes’ rich ecosystem remains a mystery. “These frogs may look ordinary, but they’re proof that we still have a lot to learn about Andean biodiversity,” said lead researcher Germán Chávez, a Peruvian herpetologist.

Each frog comes with its own quirks and charm. Pristimantis chinguelas, found clinging to a cliffside, is covered in large, bumpy tubercles and lets out a high-pitched call on damp nights. Pristimantis nunezcortezi—named in honor of local ornithologist Elio Nuñez-Cortez—was discovered by a stream in a recovering forest, marked by dark patches near its underarms and groin. The tiniest of the trio, Pristimantis yonke, was found nearly 3,000 meters above sea level nestled in bromeliads. Its name nods to “yonque,” a local sugarcane liquor used to keep warm in the biting cold.

The discoveries are as much cultural as they are biological. “It was more than fieldwork,” said researcher Karen Victoriano-Cigüeñas. “It was an immersion into wilderness, culture, and resilience.” The Cordillera’s steep slopes, volatile weather, and isolation have long kept it underexplored. That inaccessibility, co-author Ivan Wong noted, is “part of the reason discoveries like these are still possible.” As for what lies ahead, co-author Wilmar Aznaran put it best: “This isn’t just remote land. It’s a vibrant ecosystem and a cultural landmark. And we’re only beginning to understand what it holds.”

History

Italy’s Secret School

In the quiet town of Spilimbergo, tucked into Italy’s Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, one of the world’s last dedicated mosaic schools is keeping a centuries-old tradition alive—one meticulous tile at a time. The Scuola dei Mosaicisti del Friuli, founded in 1922, was created to formalize the training of local artisans and preserve a craft practiced in the region since Roman times. Today, it remains the only academic institution in the world exclusively devoted to the mosaic arts. Inside, the soundscape is all taps and clicks—no chatter, just the rhythm of tools against stone. Mosaics line nearly every surface, from replicas of Guernica in the courtyard to pieces inspired by Michelangelo and the Hagia Sophia within the halls.

“It takes a lot of hard work and discipline to become a maestro mosaicista,” said school director Gian Piero Brovedani. Students undergo a rigorous three-year program, with only a handful earning the prestigious title. A select few remain for a fourth year of advanced study. They begin with Greco-Roman and Byzantine methods before moving into modern styles, learning to work with materials like marble, smalto, and even shells—placing thousands of tesserae with precision and patience. “One tile on its own doesn’t say very much, but together with others, it creates an artwork,” said teacher Cristina de Leoni. “There’s no ego in mosaic-making.” This spirit of collaboration and humility defines the craft—no singular masterpieces, just anonymous beauty woven into functional design.

The school's influence reaches far beyond its walls. Mosaicists trained in Spilimbergo have contributed to global landmarks—from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem to the New York City subway. Yet Friuli’s legacy is just as rooted in its local landscape. Stones from the Tagliamento River and nearby Magredi plains still feature in student work. Visitors are welcome to observe—and even participate. The school offers short workshops and guided tours through a collection of over 800 pieces. Alumni-run shops on Corso Roma sell finished works, while the nearby Fabbrica di Mosaici Mario Donà kiln continues producing materials by hand. “Mosaic-making is part of our cultural DNA,” said teacher Danila Venuto. “It’s a true Friulian legacy.” In Spilimbergo, mosaics aren’t just something to admire—they’re something to carry forward, piece by piece.

Sports

Philadelphia Phillies’ New Service Dog

The Philadelphia Phillies have welcomed an unexpected rookie to their lineup—Tugger, a 10-week-old yellow Labrador who’s being trained to become a service dog for a disabled veteran. The team announced their newest addition last week, honoring Phillies legend and former Marine Tug McGraw with the pup’s name. McGraw, remembered for his World Series-winning career and larger-than-life personality, was also the father of country music star Tim McGraw. “Ya gotta believe young Tugger’s going to be a hero,” said McGraw in the team’s press release.

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“My father loved the Phillies and took immense pride in his service with the U.S. Marine Corps,” McGraw continued. “The thought that this little pup will one day contribute to enhancing the quality of life for a veteran is truly remarkable. I am certain my father would have felt deeply honored to have Tugger named in his memory.” Tugger’s journey will be supported by two nonprofits: Warrior Canine Connection, which will handle his training, and Team Foster, a Philly-based group that has paired over 500 veterans with service dogs. Tugger is the second service dog the Phillies have sponsored—following Major, who was recently placed with a local veteran.

Earlier this week, Tugger made his debut at the ballpark, winning over fans by curling up for a nap in a player’s arms mid-inning—earning applause from the crowd. The team expects Tugger to complete his training and be matched with a veteran within the next two years. Until then, he’ll be growing up surrounded by the cheers, camaraderie, and community spirit of Citizens Bank Park.

Mind Stretchers

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Yesterday’s Mind Stretchers:

I flicker to life when the lights go low,
I steal your time but help you grow.
I’m silent, loud, or in-between,
A tale unfolds—yet I’m just a screen.
What am I? — a movie! Chris Hostetler got this correct first! 🌞 

Be the first to send us the correct answer for today’s mind stretcher for a shout-out with the answer tomorrow. Just send us the answer and your name to [email protected]or reply to the email.

If you have any uplifting stories and experience you might want to share, send those over to [email protected] for the chance to be featured.