Real connection: In cities across Europe and beyond, a new kind of social scene is gaining traction. People gather in cafes and rented rooms to spend time together, with no phones or feeds, just actual presence. These meetups are part of the Offline Club, a growing movement helping people unplug from the constant scroll and rediscover old-school fun like card games, shared meals, or just talking. Started in Amsterdam, the project now has branches in major urban centres around the world, with each group adapting the idea to their local vibe. Some events also include digital detox retreats where participants fully unplug for several days. While the world scrolls on, some are choosing a slower, more traditional pace.

Lightning capital: Where the Catatumbo River meets Lake Maracaibo in northwest Venezuela, the world's most frequent lightning often appears in the night sky. Moist tropical air sweeping in from the Caribbean collides with cooler currents from the Andes, building massive storm clouds above the lake. Trapped by the surrounding mountains, these clouds discharge electricity, creating an astonishing spectacle. For hours, brilliant bolts can flash across the horizon like a constant performance. Small fishing communities with stilt houses stand nearby, accustomed to the drama. For scientists and travellers alike, it remains a fascinating and breathtaking sight.

Tickle mystery: Researchers are exploring tickling, one of the most curious sensations humans share. In a lab in Gelderland, Netherlands, a team of neuroscientists has built a device that delivers consistent, controlled foot tickles, helping them observe how the brain and body react. While animals like gorillas and rats also respond to tickling, scientists are trying to understand what purpose this odd reaction serves in social bonding and development. One focus is why people on the autism spectrum sometimes report stronger tickle responses. Another question is why we can't tickle ourselves. With every giggle and squirm, the team inches closer to unravelling the science behind this surprisingly complex response.

Sunken city: While checking coastal waters near Gujarat in India, scientists using sonar equipment noticed unusual patterns on the sea floor that resembled human-built layouts. Follow-up exploration uncovered items like pottery fragments, beads, and human remains, suggesting that people once lived there. The age of the site is debated, with some researchers arguing it predates known civilizations and others cautious about such claims. Rising seas and shifting landscapes may have buried the area, leaving only scattered traces for discovery. The find has fueled speculation that old legends about lost cities or epic floods may have some basis in reality. Whatever its true story, the submerged site continues to intrigue.

Trust in dreams, for in them is the hidden gate to eternity. ~ Kahlil Gibran

The happiest miser on earth is the man who saves up every friend he can make. ~ Robert E. Sherwood

My Walking Group A friendly group of singles aged 45+ who have fun & friendship by walking and biking. 03 323 6232

Rolleston Toastmasters. Ever wanted to practice speaking in front of others? Come along and join our fun, friendly and most importantly SUPPORTIVE atmosphere. You are welcome to come along and just watch to see what we do, we won't pressure you to speak in front of everyone. The Mens Shed, 54 Dynes Road, Rolleston 6.15pm - 8.15pm. Every Monday.

Free Courses Literacy and numeracy, digital literacy, Kiwi English, Learner Licence and more. For more information contact Literacy Christchurch, phone or text 022 6970478 or email info@literacychristchurch.org.nz

Spark Jump provides low-cost internet to homes with children under 18 but no broadband connection. No credit checks or contracts. Contact Addington.net on 962 7244 or book online at steppingup.nz

Free Curtain Bank, CEA provides free, recycled curtains (sewn to fit) for any household in need. Call 0800 GET WARM, or visit www.cea.co.nz

Tecorians a friendly club for people looking to gain confidence, stimulation or simply enjoy talking to interesting people. Meetings 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at 7.30pm. Phone or text 021 395 587

Prebbleton Craft Group Craft Day, Every second Thursday 7-9pm, Prebbleton Cottage, Cnr Blakes & Springs Road, join us to create a variety of craft projects. 0212156164

Free notices for not for profits grace@coffeenews.co.nz

1. Claude Monet belonged to the _____ art movement.

2. Is a group of skunks called a surfeit, clowder, or drove?

3. In which continent are the Tigris and Euphrates rivers?

4. How many strings are on a standard guitar?

5. _____ Earhart was the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

Space smell: Astronauts say space carries a unique odour that clings to spacesuits after a walk outside. Inside a spacecraft, they describe it as metallic or like seared meat, a strange reminder of conditions beyond Earth.

Sinking city: Some Mexico City neighbourhoods sink up to 50.9cm per year from heavy reliance on groundwater extraction. Water from underground aquifers meets the city's demand, but the ground compresses, causing dangerous, costly damage.

Vanilla roots: True vanilla comes from the beans of the vanilla orchid, making it rare, delicate, and costly. That's why most vanilla flavourings today are synthetic, even though they aim to mimic the taste of the real plant.

Hidden depths: Beneath the hills of Kentucky USA a twisting cave network called Mammoth Cave is known for its size and strange beauty. It has tunnels on multiple levels, with new passages still being found. Guided tours offer a walk into complete darkness.

Paw raft: Sea otters sometimes nap in groups called rafts, occasionally linking paws to stay together. While not always seen, these cozy gatherings reveal just how social and playful sea otters can be in the ocean.

Why do dragons sleep during the day? So they can hunt knights.

The only guy I know who makes a long story short is my editor.

Cinderella was terrible at sports. Maybe because her coach was a pumpkin.

Patient: Doctor, every time I stand up I see Mickey Mouse. Doctor: How long have you had these Disney spells?

Fishing: It gives you something to do while you're doing nothing.

In two days, tomorrow will be yesterday.

1. Impressionist 2. Surfeit 3. Asia 4. Six 5. Amelia