Heritage hold: In western Germany, Eltz Castle stands above a looping river and has remained under one family's care for roughly eight centuries. Different branches of the family once lived in linked sections, maintaining shared spaces through a cooperative arrangement that kept the property unified. That stability helped it avoid the conflicts that dismantled many older estates. Its mix of architectural styles reflects centuries of gradual changes shaped by the needs of its residents. Inside, furnished rooms still display artwork and heirlooms that survived shifting eras. The surrounding forest is protected as well, allowing visitors to see a landmark maintained through steady, long-term stewardship.

Alloy leap: Engineers exploring new metal mixes have created a 3D-printed aluminum blend that stays firm under high heat and remains much lighter than materials often used in aircraft parts. Their process relied on computer tools to narrow down promising combinations before shaping the final mixture layer by layer. The printed version formed tightly packed structures that held their strength during testing, surprising the team with how durable it became. Because of its heat tolerance, the new metal could help replace heavier pieces found in engines and other equipment. If adopted widely, its lighter weight could make future machines more efficient without altering how they look or work.

Land link: Along Turkey's northern Aegean coast, archaeologists have uncovered stone tools that suggest early humans once crossed a land route now hidden beneath the sea. The finds came from several spots near Ayvalk, showing people lived and travelled across terrain that later sank as waters rose. The region's shifting ground had long made evidence hard to detect, leaving major gaps in research. These tools, shaped in styles seen across Africa, Asia, and Europe, hint that this coastline may have offered another path into the continent. The research team that led the excavation believes future studies may uncover even more evidence. The results place Ayvalk on the map as a possible link in early human movement.

Glass mystery: A bargain purchase from a small thrift shop in the town of Moffat in Scotland, led an antiques hunter to a windowpane that may have once belonged to King Robert the Bruce in the 1300s. After cleaning away layers of grime, he uncovered a detailed figure surrounded by Latin text naming the Scottish ruler. Curious about its age, he contacted specialists who noted the medieval style of the paintwork and panel construction. Some historians suggested it might have been part of a castle linked to the king's campaigns across the region. The finder hopes the piece will be studied more closely, since its preserved condition suggests it may hold useful clues about where it truly came from.

Truth is powerful and it prevails ~ Sojourner Truth

By forgetting the past and by throwing myself into other interests, I forget to worry. ~ Jack Dempsey

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

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

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

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

Widow and Widowers Group. We welcome widowers and widows to join our group. We offer friendship and outings with monthly meetings. Ph Denise 322-7724, Carol 981-4125

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

1. Mozart began composing music when he was _____ years old.

2. In chess, the game is over when this piece is checkmated.

3. Potter Philip Grieble invented the bird bath, garden gnome, or travel mug?

4. The word berserk comes from Viking warriors called Berserkers - T/F?

5. Which vegetable's popularity increased because of the comic Popeye?

Giant penguin: Fossils found in Antarctica reveal a prehistoric penguin that stood nearly 2 metres - taller than most people today. This colossus penguin likely weighed as much as a person and could dive for long stretches underwater.

Vision revolution: Early glasses began as small glass lenses used by the Romans to read fine text. Centuries later, Italian craftsmen joined two magnifiers with a hinge, creating the first spectacles and literally changing how people saw the world.

Tire titan: LEGO, the well-known toy company, produces more tyres than any major tyre maker, turning out hundreds of millions each year for its toy vehicles. These small rubber wheels earn LEGO the title of the world's largest tyre manufacturer.

Soapy genes: Most people enjoy cilantro for its bright, fresh flavour, but a few experience something very different. A genetic variation makes some people sensitive to certain compounds in the leaves, giving the herb an unmistakable soapy flavour.

Forest smile: In Oregon USA, a reforestation project once arranged two types of trees into the shape of a giant smiley face. Each fall, their changing colours reveal the cheerful design to anyone travelling through the area.

In Sweden, 30% of car accidents involve a moose. I say don't let them drive.

Goblin: Are you ready to go out? Witch: One minute, I have to use some scare spray.

What do bees do with their honey? They cell it.

I hear the post office is a mail-dominated industry.

Can a piece of antique clothing be uncomfortable? Of corset can.

When tyres are up it's due to inflation.

1. Five 2. King 3. Garden gnome 4. True 5. Spinach