West Auckland

Vol. 293-4  August 25, 2025

027 478 0192


Everybody's Talking

Licence quest: In the quiet village of Sinchon, South Korea, one grandmother's persistence turned her into a national symbol of determination. Cha Sa-soon spent years taking the written driver's test, refusing to give up even after 960 tries. Her goal wasn't fame or fortune; she simply wanted to drive her grandchildren to the zoo without waiting lonely hours for a bus. Each day she studied road rules with fierce determination, gradually memorising questions she didn't always fully understand. In the end, her resilience paid off, earning her not only a licence but a car, national attention, and the admiration of strangers. Her story shows that sometimes the longest journeys make for the most unforgettable victories in life.

Healing roads: Scientists from London, England, are designing a new kind of road that naturally repairs itself. Inspired by the way trees heal, this project combines artificial intelligence and recycled plant materials to create asphalt that seals cracks on its own. Tiny spores filled with oils are hidden inside the surface, bursting open when damage begins and patching it without human help. Researchers use computer tools to study how the asphalt breaks and fixes itself, helping them to design smarter, stronger roads. The idea could save cities millions in pothole repairs and reduce dependence on petroleum-based asphalt. This self-mending pavement points to a greener future where even the streets look after themselves.

Steam valley: In the hills near Hverageri, Iceland, a warm river winds through a landscape of mist and moss. This geothermal stream, called Reykjadalur, offers visitors a rare treat a natural soak in water warmed by the Earth itself. As you walk the trail in, steam rises from bubbling pockets along the route, hinting at what's to come. After a moderate hike, the river reaches a just right stretch, where wooden boardwalks help guide bathers in and out. The further upstream you go, the hotter it gets, so you can pick your perfect temperature. Locals have long known about this hidden spa, but clear signs now help new visitors enjoy it safely. It's a hike, a hot bath, and a memory all in one.

Urban squeeze: A massive red inflatable is popping up in unexpected corners of cities around the world, drawing crowds and curiosity. Part sculpture, part surprise, the RedBall Project is the creation of artist Kurt Perschke, who squeezes the 4.6m ball into alleyways, plazas, and architectural crevices. Each location is carefully chosen, after the artist wanders, sketches, and sometimes gets lost in search of the perfect fit. The travelling installation has appeared in many different countries, reshaping how people interact with their everyday surroundings. It's playful, bold, and intentionally out of place. This giant sphere doesn't just fill a space, it transforms it into something to stop for, smile at, and share.

Quotable Quotes

The most dangerous phrase in the language is 'We've always done it this way.' ~ Grace Hopper

My life amounts to no more than one drop in a limitless ocean. Yet what is any ocean but a multitude of drops? ~ David Mitchell

Trivia

1. Which planet in our solar system is called the morning star?

2. What type of joint is in the human ankle?

3. There are mountains on the moon - T/F?

4. Who wrote The Three Musketeers?

5. The _____ of Silence was sung by Simon & Garfunkel.

Your Weekly Horoscope

ariesAries (March 21 - April 19)
Your focus this week may be on relationships. Resolving an old issue may not be obvious, but conscious work with a partner could create insights toward a solution. Lucky numbers: 1, 6, 7, 19, 25, 27.
libraLibra (Sept 24 - Oct 23)
Early this week, you may be interested in indulging in some sort of pleasurable activities, including cooking. Does your garden have veggies and other items for a meal? Lucky numbers: 15, 21, 30, 33, 35, 37.
taurusTaurus (April 20- May 20)
Your grounded nature might be shaken up for a few days midweek. Don't ignore uncomfortable information that could emerge. It might give you some important insights. Lucky numbers: 7, 11, 16, 19, 27, 31.
scorpioScorpio (Oct 24- Nov 21)
Your intuitive abilities may kick into high gear at midweek. If this causes you stress, try to take a deep breath and just hang on. The dynamic likely will pass in a few days. Lucky numbers: 2, 16, 19, 28, 29, 31.
geminiGemini (May 21- June 21)
Midweek may find you making new connections, including romantic ones. Your social calendar might also fill up quickly. Go with the flow, even if it seems chaotic. Lucky numbers: 13, 14, 15, 16, 26, 36.
sagittariusSagittarius (Nov22-Dec21)
You may feel particularly exuberant as you head into the weekend. Enjoy yourself, but be careful of overindulging because you might regret it after this period passes. Lucky numbers: 5, 12, 15, 19, 22, 24.
cancerCancer (June 22 - July 22)
Sometimes Cancers can be reluctant to toot their own horns. For the next few weeks, you might have an opportunity to change this, but you will need to seek it out. Lucky numbers: 4, 7, 10, 14, 31, 34.
capricornCapricorn (Dec 22- Jan 19)
Capricorns generally pro­ject a somewhat serious demeanor, but sometimes joy and fun are appropriate. During the week, you may have a chance to make some changes. Lucky numbers: 3, 5, 11, 13, 20, 39.
leoLeo (July 23 - Aug 22)
Leos are known for hav­ing a large, open heart for others. But for the next month, be careful of being starry eyed about people in general, or someone in particular. Lucky numbers: 3, 5, 13, 18, 24, 26.
aquariusAquarius (Jan 20- Feb 18)
You may run into rela­tionship obstacles during midweek. Try to consider postponing important deci­sions until this phase passes. A few better options may emerge later. Lucky numbers: 6, 7, 13, 35, 36, 39.
virgoVirgo (Aug 23 - Sept 22)
Virgos often value practi­cality over aesthetics. Early this week, there may be an opportunity to add more beauty in your life, but you might need to actively seek it. Lucky numbers: 10, 11, 19, 24, 29, 37.
piscesPisces (Feb 19 - March 20)
Pisces can wear their hearts on their sleeves, especially in the next few weeks. Be very careful of others taking advantage of your good nature; and adjust accordingly. Lucky numbers: 9, 14, 16, 18, 38, 40.
Lucky numbers for the week: Lucky numbers this week: This week's odds favour Gemini winners with the luckiest number being 15.

Did you know

Speedy buzz: Some bees can fly as fast as 24 km/h, depending on their species and wing shape. Weather and wind can also speed them up or slow them down. Their quick flights help them gather food more efficiently. Movie room Inside the USA White House is a 42-seat theatre where presidents enjoy films with family, friends, and special guests. It also serves as a quiet space to practice important speeches before addressing the country.

Petal purpose: Flowers don't just look pretty they are the plant's way of replicating themselves. With built-in parts for both male and female roles, flowers rely on pollen moving from one spot to another to kickstart reproduction.

Colour cues: Babies can see colours from an early age, but not as vividly as adults. Red is typically the first colour they notice, with their ability to see other colours and details improving gradually over the first few weeks.

Bug bite: Chocolate-covered ants bring together a sugary coating and a crisp crunch. In parts of ancient Mexico, insects were part of daily meals, and today these snacks still offer both protein and a chance to try something unique.

On the lighter side

My first job was in an orange juice factory. They fired me because I couldn't concentrate.

Teacher: Where is the English Channel? Student: I don't know. Our TV only picks up local channels.

Where are dogs scared to go? A flea market.

Show me a baker who ran out of custard, I'll show you a humble pie.

Are you wearing your golfer's socks? The pair with a hole in one.

Answers

1. Venus 2. Hinge 3. True 4. Alexandre Dumas 5. Sound