Sandscape dream: A wide park of pale-coloured sand dunes hides countless clear pools of freshwater in a remote corner of Maranho in Brazil. These sky-like lagoons appear in the rainy season forming between tall, wind-shaped hills of sand. Unlike a desert, the area receives steady rainfall creating a strange mix of dry sand and still water. Small villages nestled in the dunes offer calm spots for quiet walks or gentle river rides through mangroves and palm trees. Many visitors walk barefoot over soft dunes or explore on 4x4's, reaching pools far from the busy areas. From above the scene looks like wrinkled bedsheets dotted with blue. On the ground the quiet makes the area feel like a peaceful, hidden world.

Receipt rebellion: By giving its food names like Basic Steel Stapler and Wireless Mouse instead of the burgers and fries that they really were, a burger restaurant in Toronto, Canada, grabbed attention. The gimmick was part of a tongue-in-cheek campaign meant to joke about slipping meals onto work expense reports. People ordering lunch could pretend they were expensing office supplies while really getting a burger combo. Though clearly not meant to fool accountants, the idea quickly went viral through online videos. The restaurant later clarified it was all in good fun, not a real scheme. Even so, it sparked lively debate over whether the joke was harmless or a little too close to crossing the line.

Flood fortress: In Tokyo, Japan, a massive underground structure quietly protects the city from increasingly intense rainfall and flooding. Nicknamed The Cathedral for its towering stone pillars and hushed atmosphere, the chamber sits beneath a network of tunnels built to hold and redirect floodwater. Overflow from rivers is channeled underground before being safely pumped out to sea. The system has saved homes and prevented widespread damage in the region. Its cool, misty interior resembles a sacred space and has even become a destination for curious visitors. Engineers are now expanding the system further, which is proof that Tokyo is preparing for what's coming, not waiting for it.

Pocket win: A young girl in Ipswich, England, sparked change after noticing her school trousers had fake pockets, while the boys' version had real ones. Frustrated by the lack of function, she wrote to a major clothing retailer and started a petition with dozens of signatures from classmates. Though the company didn't officially credit her efforts, new girls' trousers now include stitched bows and proper pockets. The company later responded by saying their designs focus on comfort and durability, without directly explaining the update. For the girl who raised her voice, the issue was simple pockets matter to everyone. Whether or not her letter led to the shift, the shelves now speak for themselves.

Are not flowers the stars of the earth? ~ Clara Lucas Balfour

We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope. ~ Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Volunteers required by the Down by the Liffey Gallery, Lincoln for monthly 3 hour shifts. Contact 3252832 for further details.

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.

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

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

Greater Hornby Residents Association. Meetings are held in the last Sunday of every month in the Hornby Rugby Clubrooms, Denton Park at 2pm. All welcome.

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

Speak For Yourself Toastmasters Club. Ever wanted to practice speaking in front of others? Come and see what we're all about, and meet some awesome people! Upper Riccarton Library, 71 Main South Road Sockburn, 6.15pm-8pm on Tuesdays. 0273996535

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

1. Which 1980s British band was nicknamed the Fab Five?

2. What is the capital of Jamaica?

3. The tango is a famous dance that originated in this country.

4. The substance with the chemical formula NaCl is commonly known as this.

5. What is the national animal of Scotland.

Alias upgrade: Born Peter Gene Hernandez, singer Bruno Mars got his nickname Bruno from his dad, who thought he resembled wrestler Bruno Sammartino. He later added Mars to create a stage name that sounded unique and cosmic.

Sky shimmer: The northern and southern lights glow when solar particles crash into Earth's atmosphere, stirring up oxygen and nitrogen. These charged collisions create waves of green, red, and purple light, turning the sky into a silent show.

Synthetic spin: Polyester was born from a chemical mix of acid and alcohol, creating fibres strong enough for clothing and packaging. Later branded under names like Dacron and Mylar, this lab-made material quickly became a staple in daily life.

Desert duty: Camels can walk roughly 32 km a day while hauling up to 90 kg. They also provide milk, meat, and useful materials, earning them the nickname ships of the desert.

Name marathon: The official name of Bangkok, Thailand, is actually a record-breaking string of 21 words, making it the longest place name in the world. The full name is rarely used in daily life, and most people stick to the much shorter and simpler name, Bangkok.

How did the boat do in school? It sailed through.

Trees get sleepy too. They occasionally need a nap, forest.

When the coach called in a new pitcher, it was quite a relief!

Linda: Are you unattached? John: No, I'm put together sloppily.

Cowboys in a rodeo can be sure to get a few bucks.

'Change the channel', she said, remotely.

1. Duran Duran 2. Kingston 3. Argentina 4. Salt 5. A Unicorn