Canine couture: Fashion models weren't the ones strutting down the runway at Pet Gala 2024, which was held in New York, N.Y. USA. You guessed it instead, dogs were who charmed the audience. The four-legged models came from shelters and rescue groups, and were pets owned by social media influencers. Designer Anthony Rubio organised the event, with each of the 18 four-legged models wearing couture that mimicked what celebrities had worn at the Met Gala, held in New York two weeks earlier. Rubio organised the event as a fundraiser to support the American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog, making it both a stylish and philanthropic affair.

Tank motorcycle: Brothers Tilo and Wilfried Niebel of Zilly, Germany, created the Panzerbike, the world's heaviest rideable motorcycle, powered by a tank engine. This innovative machine began its journey when the brothers found a cutaway model of a T-55 tank engine. Determined to repurpose old military parts, they sourced components like the engine, missile transport case sidecar, and even a headlight. The build required 5,000 hours and significant welding efforts. This unique creation, designed to symbolise peace despite its warlike appearance, holds a Guinness Record. The Panzerbike is a highlight at the Harzer Bike Schmiede show, where it continues to amaze onlookers.

Onion latte: Attention coffee drinkers who would like to try something different. Spring onion-infused lattes are causing a stir in China, combining unexpected flavours. This trend went viral after several Asian media outlets spotlighted the unusual drink. The recipe involves putting chopped green onions in a cup, adding ice, milk, and coffee, and piling more chopped onions on top. Despite its unclear origins, the latte has quickly spread across various coffee shops. It's a recent addition to China's dark cuisine trend, which includes unconventional food combinations like the chili-infused hot ice latte. Reactions vary, with some curious about the flavour while others worry about onion breath.

Dream home: Victoria Turner, a teen from Colorado (USA), worked with fellow students to erect a house for a class project. Now she and her sister will be its proud inhabitants. Inspired by her brother's career in construction, Victoria joined her high school's building class. Over three years, she and peers from multiple schools laboured on various tasks for the 111-sq. m house. When it was finished, Victoria's parents decided to purchase the house for her. Presented with keys during her graduation ceremony, Victoria and her sister will soon call it home. She hopes to inspire more women to pursue careers in construction, aiming to reshape future workforces.

There is only one happiness in life, to love and be loved. ~ George Sand It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye. ~ Antoine de Saint-Exupry

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

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.

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.

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

1. Morpheus is the god of dreams, wine, or oceans?

2. What is the only bird that can fly backward?

3. The protein holding body tissues together is collagen, prion, or bile?

4. Where would you find a windfall apple?

5. What is the largest continent in the world?

Shark name: The menacing animatronic shark that terrified audiences in the movie Jaws went by the name Bruce. This toothy predator got its moniker from director Steven Spielberg's lawyer, Bruce Ramer.

Buried giants: The iconic Easter Island heads have a secret. They are attached to hidden bodies. Over time, sediment covered the statues, but archaeologists have uncovered their full forms, giving new insights into this ancient culture's artistry.

Shaky moon: The moon has been shrinking for eons and is experiencing shallow quakes that could stir up loose rocks on its surface. Once thought geologically inactive, the moon still surprises scientists with frequent seismic activity and shifts.

Red reflex: Blushing is a uniquely human trait, one that puzzled even Charles Darwin. Some believe it's our way of admitting mistakes or showing empathy, signaling emotions we'd rather hide but can't control in social situations.

Animal allies: Service animals, especially dogs, play a vital role in aiding humans. They assist individuals with disabilities, enhance independence, and provide emotional support. Training dogs for service may date as far back as ancient Rome.

Why did the parrot wear a raincoat? Because it wanted to be polly-unsaturated.

Show me a cat who eats a lemon and I'll show you a sourpuss.

Did you hear about the farmer found guilty of selling rotten fruit? He was judged by his pears.

Salesman: Would you like to buy these speakers? Customer: Are they a sound investment?

1. Dreams 2. Hummingbird 3. Collagen 4. The ground 5. Asia