Archivist finds letters written by Lincoln, and more

Archivist finds letters written by Lincoln

Jane Kenealy, an archivist at the San Diego History Center, was rummaging through a box of documents when she came upon a letter featuring a prominent signature: Abraham Lincoln. What’s more, the handwriting was reminiscent of another, unsigned letter she had recently come across. Kenealy sent copies of both letters to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, where a historian confirmed their authenticity. One, from 1841, was written when Lincoln was a lawyer; the other was signed by President Lincoln in March 1865, three weeks before he was assassinated.

Deaf dogs can learn sign language too

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The Missouri School for the Deaf has a new student—Sparky, a 1-year-old dachshund. Sparky, who’s deaf, understands some sign language, including signs for “sit,” “stay,” “lie down,” and “heel.” School superintendent Barbara Garrison approved his adoption from a program at South Central Correctional Center in Licking, Mo., where inmates train dogs to become rescue workers. “He fits perfectly here,” Garrison said. Student Michael Miller agrees: “I feel that because I can communicate with him in signs that it’s special.” Another deaf dog, a Boston terrier named Petie, may be matriculating to the school soon.

Coach donates kidney to star player

In early 2010, star Wake Forest University outfielder Kevin Jordan, a top recruit who had been a late-round draft pick of the New York Yankees, was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disorder, which eventually led to kidney failure. When Jordan, 19, was unable to find a kidney match in his family, his coach, Tom Walter, volunteered for testing. Walter was a match, and last week, he donated a kidney to Jordan. Both men are doing fine. “I didn’t want Kevin to wait one more day if I could help out,” said Walter. Jordan said he hoped to be back on the diamond soon. “I’m just really thankful,” he said.