Attic surprise: In San Francisco, California USA, a family sorting through their late mother's belongings uncovered a comic she had often said was valuable. Stored in a box in the attic, an early Superman issue turned up in unusually strong condition after years out of sight. Once experts confirmed its authenticity and state of preservation, collectors took notice from across the comic world. The book went on to sell for US$9.1 million, setting a new record for a comic at auction. Its value reflected both its place in comic history and how well it survived. The sale highlighted how easily important items can be overlooked for decades, even while sitting inside ordinary homes.

Fungal lure: Researchers have developed a new mosquito trap that turns a natural fungus into a powerful attractant instead of relying on sprays or nets. The fungus normally kills insects after contact, but scientists adjusted it so it releases a strong plant-like scent right away, drawing mosquitoes in first. Once inside the trap, the insects pick up spores that ultimately kill them without harming people nearby. Tests showed the setup worked even when a person was present in the room. Because the material can be grown on common crops, it could be produced locally in many regions. The approach avoids chemicals that mosquitoes often adapt to. Scientists see it as one more tool that could fit alongside existing control methods.

Rolling laundry: In Maryland USA, a retired police officer has turned an old bus into a moving laundry room that offers free washes to people living without housing. The idea took shape after he saw that some were cleaning clothes in nearby streams, a detail that stayed with him long after the call ended. Instead of starting a shelter or food program, he focused on something basic that's easy to overlook. The rebuilt bus now travels on a regular route so people know when it's coming. No payment is ever asked, and volunteers help keep things running smoothly. Clean clothes can make daily life feel more manageable. The project keeps growing as word spreads through the community.

Lace walls: In cities around the world, artist NeSpoon uses lace patterns to change how public walls and buildings look. She began as a painter, later working with ceramics and placing small clay pieces outdoors before moving more fully into street art. Over time, the lace designs moved away from objects and began appearing directly on walls as murals and simple installations. The patterns add texture and detail without overpowering their surroundings. NeSpoon chooses her materials based on what suits each location, such as paint for walls or installations for parks. This flexible approach lets her work blend into many settings while staying visually distinct across neighbourhoods.

"The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes." ~ Marcel Proust

"The world is changed by your example, not your opinion. ~ Paulo Coelho

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Who painted The Starry Night?

2. What is a group of crows called?

3. The USA television series of The Office was set in what Pennsylvania city?

4. Which actor portrayed Indiana Jones in the film series?

5. The original Disney Snow White film was released in 1927, 1937, or 1947?

Island shuffle: Pheasant Island sits on a river between France and Spain, and the two nations take turns caring for it in six-month stretches. Spain oversees it from February to July, then France looks after it from August to January.

Ancient cheers: The world's first recorded recipe is for beer. Found on a 4,000-year-old Sumerian tablet, it describes brewing with barley, water, and bread.

Hidden chamber: Behind the carved faces of Mount Rushmore in South Dakota USA is an unfinished room that was originally meant to display important American records. Although the full design was never completed, the space remains tucked within the monument.

Tower tilt: The famous Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy has been slowly straightening since a major stabilisation project was done. Engineers reduced its lean, and later checks showed it continued shifting slightly toward a more upright position.

Freshwater giant: Lake Superior is the planet's largest freshwater lake by surface area. It stretches across Canada and the United States, and its broad waters make it one of the most expansive freshwater bodies on Earth.

What does Superman like in his drinks? Just-ice.

We hired a door maker. She really knew how to make an entrance.

Did you hear the joke about paper? Nevermind, it's tearable.

Passenger: Are you sure this train stops in San Francisco? Conductor: If it doesn't, you'll hear a big splash.

1. Vincent van Gogh 2. A murder 3. Scranton 4. Harrison Ford 5. 1937