Christchurch West Edition

Vol. 289-3  April 21, 2025

Phone Matt 020 432 3225


Everybody's Talking

Trash treasure: In a Dutch museum, a technician unknowingly tossed a renowned piece of art into the trash, mistaking it for debris. The piece, crafted by Alexandre Lavet to resemble dented beer cans, was part of the LAM Museum's unconventional displays that transform everyday objects into art and challenge perceptions in delightful ways. A curator, noticing its absence, retrieved the artwork just before it was permanently discarded, saving it just in time. While the technician meant no harm, the museum plans to rethink display placements to prevent such confusion in the future. This amusing mix-up reminds us how art transforms the ordinary into extraordinary, sparking curiosity, reflection, and conversation.

Rock rhythms: Lithophones, stone instruments creating sound when struck, have been played for thousands of years. One from Sudan's Fourth Cataract region, crafted during the Kerma period sometime between 2500 and 1500BC, offers insight into ancient ceremonies. This granite slab, marked by percussion zones and cup marks, was played by tapping or dropping stones, producing resonant tones. Positioned for gatherings, it reflects the cultural significance of music in rituals. The worn surfaces reveal their enduring use, connecting us to a time when sound, art, and community intertwined in powerful ways. These melodic stones remind us that even in ancient times, music brought people and communities together.

Justice fulfilled: A Brazilian woman devoted her life to seeking justice after her father's tragic murder, transforming her grief into determination and action. Following an argument in a bar, her father was killed by a fugitive who evaded capture for decades, despite efforts to find him. Inspired by a promise to her family, she became a police officer, dedicating herself to tracking the man down and bringing him to justice. Her journey led her to a remote farm, where she finally apprehended the man responsible for the crime. The arrest brought long-awaited closure, symbolising resilience and the power of commitment to family. Her story reminds us that justice, though delayed, can ultimately prevail.

Illusion artistry: British sculptor Alex Chinneck turns the ordinary into the extraordinary with his jaw-dropping illusions. From melting buildings to twisting objects, his playful works challenge reality and leave audiences amazed. Once a painter, he found his true calling in sculpture at Chelsea College of Arts, experimenting with materials like bricks and glass. His public art, like a building faade seemingly ripped apart or a warehouse of shattered windows, mixes whimsy with awe. Inspired by the history and character of places, Chinneck's creations spark wonder everywhere they appear. With ambitious projects in the U.K. and abroad, his imagination knows no bounds.

Quotable Quotes

Only the person who has faith in himself is able to be faithful to others. ~ Erich Fromm

True friendship is like sound health; the value of it is seldom known until it is lost. ~Charles Caleb Colton

What's Happening

Papanui Combined Probus Club For interesting speakers,great outings and to make new friends,join us .Monthly meetings1st Tuesdays at 10a.m.at Papanui R.S.A. 1Harewood Rd. Marie 033517708 or Sian 033590057

Do you have an eye condition resulting in vision loss? We are a group of people of all ages and all eye conditions, sharing support along with hints and tips. Join us on Facebook Blindsided NZ or Blindsided.NZ@gmail.com

Dementia Canterbury needs YOU! We need more volunteers to help support those living with dementia in our community. Please contact alyssa@dementiacanterbury.org.nz or on 03 379 2590 for more information.

Widowed men and women - from around 50-mid 70s. We offer monthly meetings with support and friendship with regular activities such as dinners, movies, walks etc. New members welcome. Ph Claire 3543976 or Carol 9814125.

Do you enjoy singing? A small group invite you to join them in singing entertainment for senior groups. Popular songs from all decades. Ring City People on 9814363 for more information

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

Trivia

1. This fictional doctor could talk to the animals.

2. The rusty spotted cat is the fattest, friendliest, or smallest wild cat in the world?

3. Noology is the study of sculpture, storms, or the mind?

4. What is the meaning of the Latin word veto?

5. Where is the archipelago of Society Islands found?

Your Weekly Horoscope

ariesAries (March 21 - April 19)
A moment of bold lead­ership may arise for you midweek. But pick your battles carefully in any disagreements with oth­ers. Instead, keep your attention on your goals. Lucky numbers: 3, 7, 8, 13, 20, 22.
libraLibra (Sept 24 - Oct 23)
Last week's emotional dynamic may continue in the middle of this week. You still might be able to tap into an opportunity for courage to address an ongoing issue. Lucky numbers: 5, 9, 14, 19, 21, 30.
taurusTaurus (April 20- May 20)
Week's end brings a monthly reset point. This may be a good time to set new intentions. Con­sider perhaps creating a list to then review and evaluate it again in a month. Lucky numbers: 6, 9, 15, 24, 37, 38.
scorpioScorpio (Oct 24- Nov 21)
Intuitive information, both within yourself and from others, might be evident and be hard to process. A grounded energy could help stabilise the situation at week’s end. Lucky numbers: 6, 9, 13, 18, 20, 27.
geminiGemini (May 21- June 21)
For the next couple of weeks, you may find that others are drawn to you more than usual. They might help you accom­plish a goal, so don't overlook this opportunity. Lucky numbers: 2, 7, 13, 23, 36, 40.
sagittariusSagittarius (Nov22-Dec21)
The energy over the next couple of weeks may boost your confidence and encourage you to work harder to achieve a goal. Where do you want to focus this potential? Lucky numbers: 4, 23, 29, 31, 39, 40.
cancerCancer (June 22 - July 22)
As the weekend approach­es, you may feel a sense of contentment. It might be a good time to kick back and relax. Relation­ship issues could be easier to resolve now. Lucky numbers: 1, 16, 17, 22, 30, 33.
capricornCapricorn (Dec 22- Jan 19)
Do you have a good work- life balance? If needed, create a plan with your family or work associates to foster this equilib­rium. All parties may appreciate the change. Lucky numbers: 7, 10, 15, 18, 27, 38.
leoLeo (July 23 - Aug 22)
Early in the week, you may feel thwarted in your efforts. This might come from within or from others. You could possibly find some success in a balance of your head and heart. Lucky numbers: 6, 8, 10, 11, 15, 29.
aquariusAquarius (Jan 20- Feb 18)
Do you have an overall view of what you want to accomplish? Large pro­jects can appear to be overwhelm­ing at present, but you may be able to take a concrete step now. Lucky numbers: 8, 12, 17, 22, 25, 34.
virgoVirgo (Aug 23 - Sept 22)
At midweek, you may find that your drive and attention to detail might be stymied. This should only last a few days, so take a couple of deep breaths and try to wait it out. Lucky numbers: 2, 8, 13, 21, 31, 40.
piscesPisces (Feb 19 - March 20)
You may feel particularly emotional at the close of the week. To use these feelings positively, try to dig in and work on a project that is in alignment with your values. Lucky numbers: 10, 12, 18, 20, 22, 40.
Lucky numbers for the week: Lucky numbers this week: This week's odds favour Aries winners with the luckiest number being 7.

Did you know

Soundtrack surprise: Disney's Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs made history as the first film with an official soundtrack, yet none of its songs were nominated for an Oscar. Walt Disney did receive an Honourary Award in 1939 for his groundbreaking achievement.

Cocktail mystery: The Bloody Mary wasn't always known by its famous name. Originally dubbed Bucket of Blood, it evolved through names like Red Snapper before becoming the Bloody Mary, possibly honouring Queen Mary I.

Shower sparks: Creativity often happens when the brain's decision-making areas take a break, like in the shower. This allows other regions to become active, helping us think freely and come up with unique and exciting ideas.

Rabbit quirks: Rabbits' teeth grow continuously, but they stay short from chewing grasses and vegetables. Their side-facing eyes give them nearly full-circle vision, helping them spot predators while hopping around.

Deodorant anthem: Alternative rock band Nirvana's song Smells Like Teen Spirit, written by Kurt Cobain, got its name from a surprising source a deodorant. A friend jokingly referenced the brand Teen Spirit, but Cobain misinterpreted it as a rebellious slogan.

On the lighter side

What does a baby computer call its father? Data.

A cat ate cheese and waited for the mouse with baited breath.

Did you hear about the guy who invented the door knocker? He won the no-bell prize.

Will: They say you are what you eat. Bill: Then let's order something rich.

Answers

1. Dr. Dolittle 2. Smallest 3. The mind 4. I forbid 5. French Polynesia