Shared feast: Over 3,000 residents came together for a community meal that stretched 1.6 km through Denver, Colorado USA. Organised by the nonprofit Longer Tables, the Mile Long Table brought locals, volunteers, and visitors to one continuous line of seats in the heart of downtown. Farmers, chefs, and sponsors contributed food and support, turning the event into a large-scale neighbourhood picnic. Some attendees even reunited with loved ones flown in by surprise through a sponsoring airline. The meal encouraged strangers to connect face-to-face and share stories. Organisers hope to make the gathering a yearly tradition and inspire other cities to create their own tables of connection.

Bee boost: Oxford, England, researchers developed a new bee feed using modified yeast that mimics the nutrients bees gather from pollen. The project aims to support colonies struggling with the decline of native flowering plants. Through fermentation, scientists produced sterols, natural compounds vital for bee growth and energy. Test colonies raised more young and stayed active longer when fed the nutrient-rich mixture. The yeast, altered through genetic methods, offers the same essential lipids as pollen but in a steadier form. Experts say this advance could strengthen pollination systems and boost global food yields, helping bees survive as their natural food sources continue to decline.

Secret snake: In the forests of Barbados, scientists have confirmed the reappearance of a snake species unseen for decades. Hidden beneath a rock during a wildlife survey, the Barbados threadsnake turned out to be the smallest known snake on Earth. Barely the length of a finger, it burrows through soil and roots, rarely surfacing in daylight. Researchers verified its identity under a microscope before returning it safely to its habitat. The finding offers hope that other species presumed lost may still survive in the island's shrinking forest reserves. Conservationists view this rediscovery as a reminder of how fragile these remaining ecosystems are, and how easily their rarest inhabitants can slip away again.

Plastic threads: An engineering student in Baltimore, Maryland USA, has created a method to turn leftover party cups into wearable fabric. Her company, The New Norm, repurposes the plastic from discarded cups into yarn used for sweaters and hats. By combining the plastic with eco-friendly materials, the finished fabric stays soft while avoiding the microplastic shedding of standard polyester clothing. Each piece is 3D-knitted in one seamless process, reducing waste and stitching. The pastel colours come directly from the cups themselves, without added dyes. Production now runs through USA facilities, turning single-use plastic into sustainable fashion that redefines how waste can be worn.

Goodness is the only investment that never fails. ~ Henry David Thoreau

Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow. ~ Anthony J. D'Angelo

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 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

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

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

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 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

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.

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1. What was the capital of East Germany?

2. Who was the original voice of Kermit the Frog?

3. A possum has a pouch - T/F?

4. What is the continuous circulation of water in the earth's atmosphere?

5. A villanelle is a type of gondola, bread, or poem?

Pickle day: USA National Pickle Day on November 14th celebrates everything from sweet to spicy varieties, giving fans a reason to enjoy the tangy treat in many forms. Legends even suggest Cleopatra linked her beauty to a steady diet of pickles.

Air sailors: Female argonaut octopuses trap pockets of air inside their delicate shells to move with precision through the ocean. This clever trick helps them glide efficiently while conserving energy and keeping their eggs safe in the deep sea.

River roots: The USA rock band Puddle of Mudd got its name after floodwaters filled their rehearsal space in Kansas City, Missouri. Years later, a demo tape connected them to the industry, setting the stage for their breakout success.

Monkey mail: In the mid-1900s, Sears catalogues didn't just sell clothes and tools, they even offered live monkeys by mail. The unusual listings made the family catalogue seem more like a miniature zoo than a shopping guide.

Gum ban: Ordinary chewing gum is off-limits in Singapore. Importing gum, selling it, or carrying it without a doctor's note is against the law, with only prescribed dental gum allowed under tightly controlled medical rules.

Know the difference between a space ship and a cookie? You can't dunk a rocket in your coffee.

My optician is a man of vision.

You know what really floats my boat? Buoyancy.

Producer: Didn't you write a play named Fireflies? Writer: Yes, it got glowing reviews.

Outside a muffler shop: "No appointment necessary. We hear you coming.

1. East Berlin 2. Jim Henson 3. True 4. Water cycle 5. Poem