Garden sanctuary: Nestled near Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, the Onion Garden offers a peaceful escape in the heart of London, England. Once an abandoned urban corner, it's now a lush green space teeming with herbs, wildflowers, fruit trees, and, unsurprisingly, onions. This community haven, transformed by Jens Jakobsen, fosters kindness and connection, welcoming all who embrace its uplifting philosophy. Featuring an orangery, pavilion, and caf, the garden reinvests proceeds into its growth while hosting inclusive events. A stroll through its vibrant paths reveals tranquillity and purpose, and is a reminder that even a bustling city can blossom with a little care.

Cheese surplus: Deep underground in the USA state of Missouri, limestone caves hold massive amounts of surplus cheese, a holdover from policies meant to stabilise the dairy industry decades ago. What began as subsidies to address a 1970s dairy shortage led to overproduction, with unsold milk converted into longer-lasting cheese. By the 1980s, government cheese became part of American culture, distributed through food assistance programs. Today, with dairy consumption dropping but production rising, billions in subsidies continue to support the industry, leaving stockpiles of extra cheese. This quirky legacy shows how even surplus cheese can reflect America's economic twists and turns.

Bamboo balance: In the rivers of Guizhou, China, bamboo drifting is a mesmerising art form blending balance and grace. Originally born from necessity, locals transported timber logs by standing on them and navigating rivers. Over time, the practice evolved into a breathtaking tradition, with bamboo replacing wood and acrobatic skills transforming it into an art. Today the practice features solo and duet performances, such as the stunning Ballet on Water. Celebrated at cultural festivals and traditional games, bamboo drifting unites communities and beautifully showcases their rich cultural heritage. This captivating tradition proves that even simple bamboo can carry the weight of history.

Cozy screenings: A movie theatre in Switzerland has taken comfort to the next level by replacing traditional seats with double beds. Cinema Path's VIP bedroom screen features beds complete with adjustable headrests, pillows, soft sheets, and bedside tables for complimentary snacks and drinks. Guests are even given slippers to enhance the cozy and luxurious experience. Concerned about hygiene? The theatre assures patrons that all bedding is thoroughly cleaned between showings for maximum cleanliness. For those who prefer other options, the cinema also offers double sofas, or a kids' cinema with fun features like a ball pit and slide, creating something special for everyone to enjoy.

To be a champ you have to believe in yourself when no one else will. ~ Sugar Ray Robinson

Every man should lose a battle in his youth, so he does not lose a war when he is old. ~ George R. R. Martin

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

1. What did the Little Mermaid lose when she gained her legs?

2. An insect's antennae sense touch and also smell, hearing, or sight?

3. Brontology is the study of brontosauruses, thunder, or boulders?

4. What does Erin go bragh mean?

5. The Rock of Gibraltar is one of the Pillars of Hercules - T/F?

Mega beavers: Giant beavers, now extinct but once as big as small bears, vanished partly due to their reliance on soft plants. Unlike modern beavers, they couldn't chew wood or build dams, making survival more difficult. Rainy aromas The smell of rain, called petrichor, comes from plant oils and geosmin, an earthy-scented compound released by soil bacteria. Rain hitting the ground stirs up these elements, creating the familiar fragrance of fresh rainfall.

Deep roots: Humans have been fighting tooth troubles since at least 7000 BC. Ancient civilizations, like those in the Indus Valley were already developing dental practices, making dentistry one of the most ancient of the medical professions.

Tongue twist: Crocodiles can't extend their tongues because they're fixed to the roof of their mouths by a unique membrane, ensuring safety when they bite down. Alligators can freely stick out their tongues, although they rarely do.

Travel smarter: Travel isn't just about sightseeing; it can actually make us smarter. Studies suggest that engaging with other cultures broadens our perspective, enhancing our ability to consider multiple viewpoints and boosting career opportunities.

What did Paul Revere say when he finished his famous ride? Whoa!

Show me a singing beetle and I'll show you a humbug.

A clown opened up the door for me at work. I thought, That's a nice jester.

Nick: I just saw a 7-foot chicken dribbling a basketball. Rick: I'll bet she played for the Hen-B-A!

1. Her voice 2. Smell 3. Thunder 4. Ireland Forever 5. True