Grandpa makeover: A Chinese makeup artist has taken social media by storm with her extraordinary ability to transform her elderly grandfather into vibrant, anime-inspired figures. Using her impressive skills, she makes him appear decades younger, a feat that has amazed viewers online. Her side-by-side comparison videos amass millions of views and spark disbelief at the dramatic changes. This viral sensation has crossed borders, capturing interest in other parts of Asia and the West. The transformations highlight the artistry and potential of makeup, showcasing the artist's unique talent. She joins the ranks of other Chinese artists in redefining age through cosmetic wizardry.

Zebra chase: A zebra that had escaped and was spotted roaming the foothills of western Washington state (USA) was safely recaptured a week later. Despite her adventures in the wild, she appeared to be in good condition. The zebra was initially traveling with three other zebras in a trailer destined for the state of Montana, where they were going to be part of a petting zoo. While three of the animals were swiftly apprehended, the fourth zebra had managed to evade capture by hopping a fence and disappearing. Following numerous sightings, she was joyfully reunited with her dazzle, or group, of zebras.

Smart spoon: In Tokyo, Japan, Kirin Holdings has introduced the Elecispoon, a smart spoon designed to enhance the taste of low-sodium foods. Using electric current technology, this spoon tricks the taste buds into perceiving food as being saltier, which helps address Japan's common issue of excessive salt consumption. The Elecispoon generates an electric field that clusters sodium ions, enhancing the food's flavour. The device offers several intensity levels, powered by a rechargeable battery. Despite its benefits, it is unsuitable for people with facial nerve disorders or those undergoing dental treatments. Priced at 19,800 (JPY), the Elecispoon is available online and at select stores in Japan.

Muscle speech: Researchers in Los Angeles, California (USA), have developed a self-powered device that translates muscle movements into speech. This innovative patch adheres to the throat, using artificial intelligence to convert movements into spoken words. The lightweight device harnesses the energy from muscle movements to generate electricity, so it does not need a battery. Made of soft silicone, micromagnets, and copper wire coils, the patch creates electrical signals from the moving muscles. In tests, an algorithm accurately translated these signals into speech. This patch offers a promising solution for people with voice disorders.

In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: It goes on. ~ Robert Frost

Love is like war: easy to begin but very hard to stop. ~ H.L. Mencken

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

1. What destination is at the end of the Yellow Brick Road?

2. What was the name of the skunk in the movie Bambi?

3. What do players conquer in the game of Risk?

4. A chiromancer reads maps, palms, or ocean currents?

5. Often triangular, a delta is where a river meets the ocean T/F?

Tooth truth: Unlike most body parts, teeth struggle to heal because they're made of enamel, the body's toughest material with minimal cells and proteins. While skin and bones can regenerate, teeth lack the same self-repair abilities.

Faux flavour: The wasabi served with sushi is usually a mix of horseradish, mustard, and green dye, not real wasabi. Genuine wasabi is rare and expensive, so most restaurants opt for this spicy substitute instead.

Wordless anthem: Spain's national anthem, the Marcha Real, lacks lyrics, leaving people to hum along. Originally a military march, it was later adopted as the anthem. Despite attempts, no official words have ever been approved.

Sipping savvy: Marvin Stone revolutionized beverage consumption by patenting the first paper drinking straw in 1888. Before then, people used rye grass and hollow reeds, often adding unwanted flavours and odours to their drinks.

Idle eating: Ever snack just because? The Japanese word kuchisabishii, meaning lonely mouth, describes the habit of eating out of boredom or stress. While there's no exact English equivalent, peckish comes close.

What kind of money does a kangaroo have? Pocket change.

People using umbrellas always seem to be under the weather.

DO NOT TOUCH must be a terrifying thing to read in braille!

I've been off work all week because my pet cow is sick My Boss thinks I'm milking it..!

I'm currently reading a book called There's a hole in my bucket, writing by Lee King.

1. Oz 2. Flower 3. The world 4. Palms 5. True