Chilly challenge: Each year, a record-breaking snow maze brings winter magic to visitors in St. Adolphe, Manitoba (Canada). Built on the site of a corn maze, this frosty labyrinth attracts thousands eager to weave through its towering, castle-like walls. The maze, certified as the world's largest, is crafted from compacted snow using specialised equipment and determination. Even on the coldest days, its thick walls offer shelter from the wind, making the experience surprisingly cozy. Beyond the maze, visitors can enjoy sleigh rides, a snow hill, and a giant igloo serving hot drinks. This annual tradition shows that a little snow and a lot of imagination can turn a chilly day into a winter wonderland.

Glowing bay: The waters of Mosquito Bay, on the island of Vieques, Puerto Rico, glow with an otherworldly light once darkness falls. The shimmering effect comes from countless microscopic organisms that emit a radiant blue-green hue when disturbed. Recognised globally for its intensity, the bay is often described as one of the planet's brightest examples of bioluminescence. Kayakers drift across the still surface, each movement sending soft waves of light rippling outward. Because the phenomenon is fragile, local guides limit activity to protect its delicate balance. The glowing bay continues to draw visitors from around the world eager to witness this rare natural spectacle firsthand.

Language wiring: The language a person learns early in life seems to shape how their brain connects and processes information. In a study comparing native speakers of German and Arabic, scientists found distinct differences in white matter, the brain's wiring that links regions for understanding and producing speech. German speakers showed stronger connections on one side, while Arabic speakers had more cross-hemisphere communication. Researchers believe these patterns reflect each language's grammar and sound structure. The results suggest that growing up with a language leaves lasting physical traces in the brain, revealing how closely language and thought are connected.

Labour legacy: In Winsted, Connecticut USA, a massive indoor mural stands as a tribute to a variety of trades and professions. Measuring about 37 metres long and five storeys high, it ranks among the largest indoor artworks ever created. Artist Ellen Griesedieck conceived the project after watching an aircraft engine being fitted into place, inspiring her to capture the pride and scale of human work. Combining painting and sculpture, it portrays real people in everyday roles, from firefighters and farmers to steelworkers and teachers. Supported by craftspeople and donors who contributed materials, the mural continues to grow, echoing the same collaboration it depicts.

Life is like an onion. You peel it off one layer at a time, and sometimes you weep. ~ Carl Sandburg

One eye sees, the other feels. ~ Paul Klee

Wriggle & Rhyme, Manukau Library, every Tuesday during school-term. Join us for a programme that promotes active movement and brain development for babies and toddlers. For ages 0-2 years old.

Live Stronger for Longer: Community strength and balance classes are a great opportunity to complete regular exercise whilst socialising and having fun with like-minded people in your community - www.livestronger.org.nz

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

1. What is the largest bird of Australia?

2. Hercules was punished with 5, 12, or 15 labours to complete?

3. Bell, Book and _____ is a 1958 movie starring Jimmy Stewart and Kim Novak.

4. A thesaurus is a book of homonyms - T/F?

5. Is the Equator a line of latitude or longitude?

Pan pride: In Trinidad and Tobago, inventive musicians shaped old oil barrels into the steelpan. What began as an improvised instrument soon became the Caribbean's signature sound, carrying island culture from local gatherings to international stages.

Watching eyes: Some works of art give the uncanny feeling that the eyes are following you as you move. By using simple tricks with lines and shadows, artists can make flat images feel alive, adding mystery and depth to their creations.

False start: The saying about beginning on the wrong foot reflects old preferences for the right side. In long-held tradition, the right was tied to good fortune, while the left side often carried hints of error or general bad luck.

Winter pause: Bears retreat to dens during colder months, but don't spend the whole time in deep sleep. They stir, shift around often, and rely on fat reserves for energy until spring finally brings food and easier conditions again.

Ocean hitchhikers: Dolphin lice are small crustaceans, not insects, and they spend their days holding tight to swift, slippery hosts. They tuck into creases of skin with claw-like legs, surviving the ride while waiting for a rare chance to reproduce.

They invented a computer as smart as a human; it blames its mistakes on other computers.

Dad: Son, why haven't you washed your hair? Son: The shampoo bottle said, For Dry Hair. Mine was already wet.

What starts with T, ends with T, and is full of T? A teapot.

Old carpenters don't retire, they just lumber around!

What do you call a women in the distance? Dot!

1. Emu 2. 12 3. Candle 4. False, synonyms 5. Latitude