Urban foxes: A red fox cub found itself in the unfortunate position of having its head stuck in a garden sink drain in Basildon, England. After being trapped there for several hours, and with some gentle wiggling, the cub was successfully rescued by folks from the South Essex Wildlife Hospital. The cub was treated and released back into nature. Red foxes are common in the U.K. They are known for their intelligence and adaptability in urban environments, where they scavenge for food and find ample shelter. Scientists speculate that physical changes like longer snouts and smaller heads indicate a potential for domestication. No one knows how this fox got stuck in the first place.

Mystery peaks: In Anlong County, China, a series of pyramid-shaped mountains known as the Anlong Pyramids have captivated global interest. These natural formations, resembling Egypt's iconic pyramids, feature meticulously stacked rock layers, sparking conspiracy theories about ancient civilisations or alien activity. Despite these speculations, experts assert that these structures are natural formations, shaped by geological processes over millions of years. A professor at a local university has explained that mineral recrystallization and water erosion created the distinct, block-like appearance. Though science provides clear explanations, the allure of these mountains continues to fuel theories and draw curious tourists.

Fiery chips: In Tokyo, Japan, a group of high school students found themselves in the hospital after consuming ghost pepper-infused potato chips. The spicy snack, containing bhut jolokia, caused intense stomach and mouth pain, leading to an emergency call from their high school. The 14 affected students, part of a larger group who shared the chips, experienced symptoms severe enough to require medical attention. The chip manufacturer clearly labels these 18+ curry chips as unsuitable for minors and those with health conditions due to their extreme heat. Despite the warnings, the students obtained the chips and suffered the consequences. After receiving treatment, they were released the same day.

Smart ants: The tiny Polyrhachis femorata species of ants are smart little critters. That's what scientists discovered while studying animal species on Kangaroo Island in Australia. The scientists found an ant colony and thought the tiny insects were all dead, until one moved slightly, that is. Feigning death is a natural defence mechanism used in dozens of animal species. But for the surprised scientists, finding an entire ant colony pretending to be dead was new. The ants had contorted their bodies into unnatural positions and had stayed absolutely still, which tricked the scientists. This remarkable display of collective mimicry highlights the sophisticated survival strategies of the ants.

In prosperity our friends know us; in adversity we know our friends. ~ John Churton Collins

The greater the obstacle, the more glory in overcoming it. ~ Molire

Volunteer Community Patrollers wanted – Can you spare a minimum of 4 hours per month? Full training provided. Clean driver licence required. Waiuku 021 030 4062, Pukekohe 021 138 0135

Social gatherings for older people: Selwyn Centres in Waiuku and Tuakau offer morning tea and a social time together for the over 65's. Tuakau : St John’s Anglican Church, George St, Tues and Wed 9.30am-midday.Contact Sue 021 060 9688. Waiuku: St Andrews Centre, Queen St Thursdays 9.30am-midday. Contact Lynn 0274 952 360. Transport can be provided at both venues.

Franklin Bridge Club at 20 Edinburgh Street, Pukekohe, is the place to learn and play the most popular mind sport (card game) in the World. Enjoy a warm welcome at our very friendly club where all ages are welcome. Enquiries to Robert on 021 0265 9159.

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

1. The prime meridian is located at 0 degrees longitude T/F?

2. The city of Gdansk is in what country?

3. Who composed the music for An American in Paris?

4. What animal's milk becomes Roquefort cheese?

5. Riboflavin is better known as vitamin B2, C, or A?

Durability tester: In a quirky test of durability, Samsung used a robot to simulate real-world pressure of sitting on phones. Clad in denim jeans, the device applied significant force to ensure phones could handle everyday stress.

Kleenex origins: Due to a wartime necessity, the Kimberly-Clark Corporation created a creped cellulose product for gas mask filters and bandages. After World War I, this product became Kleenex tissues, marketed as disposable handkerchiefs.

Giant gulpers: The enormous size of blue whales is linked to their unique feeding method. By swallowing massive amounts of water and filtering out krill, these giants can gain hundreds of times more energy than they use during feeding.

Human touch: Gloves are common on many Disney characters like Mickey Mouse and Goofy. Originally, they simplified drawing and made animating easier. Walt Disney also believed they made characters appear more human.

Printed wrench: When the International Space Station needed a wrench in 2014, NASA used a unique strategy to send one They emailed it. Astronauts received a digital design and used a 3D printer on their space station to create the tool.

Exams don't test what you know. They tell you how well you can study the night before a test!

In boring classes, I always improve my drawing skills.

Why did the pickles climb into the truck? The door was ajar.

I didn't think I was going to like soccer, but I get a real kick out of it.

One worm to another: Follow me, I know a restaurant where we can eat dirt cheap.

1. True 2. Poland 3. George Gershwin 4. Sheep 5. B2