Croc scare: It's not every day that people think they see a crocodile on the loose near the village of Cholesbury, England. But that's exactly what they thought they spotted lounging in a flooded puddle, prompting them to alert the police. The Thames Valley Police responded and, sure enough, found the crocodile. However, it turned out to be the plastic head of a toy floating in the murky water. Police laughed about the situation, and one officer even posed for a picture grappling with the alligator, reassuring the community that they were all safe. They also used the opportunity to joke about the difference between an alligator and a crocodile one will see you later, and the other will see you after a while.

Air butter: A California company called Savor has pioneered a method to create a butter-like substance using only simple elements. This unique process, which assembles fat molecules from carbon dioxide and hydrogen, creates dairy-free products that closely mimic the taste and texture of traditional butter, cheese, and ice cream. By avoiding greenhouse gasses, using minimal water, and not relying on farmland, Savor's method significantly reduces the environmental impact compared to conventional agriculture. Taste tests have shown their butter alternative is almost identical to the real thing. Savor plans to expand into other dairy-free products, aiming to revolutionise sustainable food production.

Nautical nap: In Taiwan, a man named Hong Nan had a miraculous rescue after drifting into the open sea on a colourful swim ring. After a hot day at work, he jumped into the water to cool off and, after a few drinks, fell asleep. Hours later, he woke up miles from the shore. Despite shouting for help, he was too far out to be heard. After he drifted for 19 hours, a fishing boat spotted and rescued him. Visibly weak and dehydrated but in good health, he was brought back to port and taken to the hospital. The doctors ran tests and found him stable, discharging him shortly after. His incredible story has since gone viral, with many amazed at his luck.

Bee spill: When five million honey bees fell off a trailer truck in Burlington, Ontario (Canada), authorities found themselves in a sticky situation. Boxes containing bees and beehives slid off the truck and spilled across the road, said a spokesperson from the regional police service. The police called in several beekeepers to come help manage the situation. Although the bees were cleared from the scene within hours, police advised local residents and drivers to keep their windows closed, and reminded people that honey bees are fairly gentle and won't bother people unless provoked. The incident highlighted the importance of secure transport for such precious cargo.

You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view. ~ Harper Lee

The return we reap from generous actions is not always evident. ~ Francesco Guicciardini

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

1. Helen of Troy was queen of what ancient region?

2. In chess, does the bishop move forward, backward, or diagonally?

3. This triangle has unequal sides and angles.

4. St. Croix is the largest in what chain of islands?

5. Who wrote the book The Da Vinci Code?

Fashion flashpoint: Jennifer Lopez's iconic green dress at the 2000 Grammys didn't just turn heads, it revolutionized the internet. The overwhelming demand for photos led Google to create Image Search, changing how we find pictures online.

Tank tea-time: British army tanks come equipped with a boiling vessel, a device that allows the crew to brew tea or heat food without leaving the safety of their vehicle. This reflects the nation's deep-rooted love of tea, even on the battlefield.

Star readers: Ancient Mayan civilization valued astronomy, seeing the stars, moon, and planets as reflecting the actions of the gods. Detailed records reveal sophisticated tracking of celestial bodies, vital for their calendar and societal planning.

IKEA origins: Founded by Ingvar Kamprad, IKEA started as a small, mail-order business in Sweden. Its name is an acronym derived from Kamprad's initials, his family farm Elmtaryd, and his hometown Agunnaryd.

Fruit preservation: The apples at the grocery store might be older than you think. Since apples are usually only harvested in the fall, growers store them in refrigerated warehouses to keep them fresh, allowing you to enjoy them year-round.

For the record I should buy a turntable!

Most often the wallet is like a fridge; you open it and it's empty

Applicant: If I get the job, will I be paid weekly or monthly? Boss: I guarantee you'll be paid weakly.

A friend just gave me a bag of sugar as a gift. I thought it was very sweet!

What do you call a penguin in the rain forest? Lost.

1. Sparta 2. Diagonally 3. Scalene 4. U.S. Virgin Islands 5. Dan Brown