Shared rewards: In Louisiana USA, a family-run manufacturing company called Fibrebond was sold in a major sale. Before stepping aside, the owner made sure US$240m from the sale would go to the employees who helped grow the business. The plan spread the money out over time and included people across many roles. The news surprised workers, many of whom didn't expect anything beyond a normal transition. The company had grown by sticking through hard periods and making careful choices. For employees, the payout offered relief and new possibilities. For the owner, it was a way to leave knowing the success was shared with the people who helped build it.

Folded strength: In New York City USA, a student turned a long-time paper-folding hobby into an award-winning experiment by testing how much weight origami shapes can support. Rather than focusing on art, he studied how folded patterns behave under pressure and whether they could handle real loads. His project used a compact folding style with repeating angles, which he adjusted in size and material to compare results. After building and testing many versions at home, one design stood out for staying light while carrying far more than expected. Judges praised the clear testing and results, awarding top honours and prize money. The work also pointed to future uses in temporary shelters or portable structures.

Peace paws: In Fort Worth, Texas USA, a group of Buddhist monks began a long walking journey to share messages of peace, and a stray dog chose to walk with them. He first joined the group on an earlier trip and stayed close, following their pace day after day. Even when he was hurt or became sick, he returned to the road as soon as he could. When the monks started a new walk across the United States, the dog came along again without hesitation. They travelled slowly and stopped often, meeting people who offered food, help, or a short conversation. Progress was shared through online videos as they moved from place to place. For many who saw them pass by, the dog was one of the most memorable members of the group.

Shrek surprise: One night at home, a couple sat down to watch Shrek, a movie they'd seen many times before. What one partner didn't know was that the other had edited himself into the wedding scene, adding his face and voice into the film. As the scene played, he quietly left the room and came back wearing the same suit shown on screen. The timing lined up just as the movie reached its big moment. He then got down on one knee and asked his girlfriend to marry him. The idea grew out of their shared love of movies and making creative projects together over the years. It was meant to be simple, personal, and just for them at first. Later, online videos shared the moment with others. She said yes.

The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain. ~ Dolly Parton

The future depends entirely on what each of us does every day. ~ Gloria Steinem

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. What is the Worlds southernmost capital city?

2. Which actor played Marty McFly in the Back to the Future movies?

3. What is the largest bone in the human body?

4. Which legendary boxer was born Cassius Clay?

5. In the Star Wars films, what is the name of Han Solo's ship?

Sunken fleets: Roughly 3 million shipwrecks are believed to rest on the ocean floor. While a few famous wrecks capture attention, the vast majority remain unexplored, as they are spread across the seas and hidden far below the surface.

Island chickens: In Key West, Florida USA, free-roaming chickens wander streets and yards as part of everyday life. The birds live independently, forage on their own, and have become an unexpected but familiar feature of the island.

Plug puzzle: Electrical outlets vary around the world because power systems developed separately, using different designs and safety choices. Those early decisions stuck, leaving travellers today forced to switch between adapters just to charge their devices.

Southern surprise: Canada stretches farther south than many people realise. Its lowest point sits below parts of the western United States, so small areas of states like California are actually north of Canada's southern edge.

Capital shuffle: Before settling in Washington, D.C., the United States moved its capital multiple times during its early years. Early lawmakers met in several cities, including Philadelphia (PA), Baltimore (MD), Princeton (NJ), and New York (NY).

What did the ocean say to the beach? Nothing, it just waved!

Did you hear about the amateur fisherman? He did it just for the halibut.

The school board removed Speech and Debate from the curriculum. There was no argument.

Mother: Billy, what is all that racket from the pantry? Billy: I'm busy fighting temptation.

1.Wellington 2. Michael J Fox 3. Femur 4. Muhammad Ali 5. Millenium Falcon