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January 5 - 11, 2026

Mid Vancouver Island Edition

Coffee News Mid Vancouver Island including Parksville, Port Alberni, Qualicum Beach, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay
Buried network: In the heart of Leuven, Belgium, archaeologists unearthed sections of ancient Roman plumbing crafted from hollowed tree trunks. The wooden system had been tucked beneath layers of swampy earth, its preservation aided by the damp conditions. Experts believe this setup was once part of a broader water system used to serve a Roman outpost positioned along a key military route. The location’s distance from Rome hints that infrastructure reached even to the quieter corners of the empire. The trunks appear to have carried water across a stretch now hidden under the modern city. Researchers plan to carefully preserve the wood, offering a rare glimpse into how practical needs shaped ancient settlements.
Fungal fix: A new kind of diaper is using fungi to reprocess waste. Instead of lingering for centuries in landfills, these diapers contain a pouch of cultivated spores that activate when tossed out. Moisture triggers the fungi, which then digest the material from within, converting it to nutrient-rich soil and mycelium. The concept comes from a team blending entrepreneurship with fungal science, hoping to shift how single-use items are handled. Unlike traditional disposal methods, this approach avoids heavy processing or emissions. The key lies in enzymes that break down plastic at its core, dismantling stubborn compounds naturally. Subscription access now gives environmentally minded families a simple way to reduce their footprint.
Fungal fix: A new kind of diaper is using fungi to reprocess waste. Instead of lingering for centuries in landfills, these diapers contain a pouch of cultivated spores that activate when tossed out. Moisture triggers the fungi, which then digest the material from within, converting it to nutrient-rich soil and mycelium. The concept comes from a team blending entrepreneurship with fungal science, hoping to shift how single-use items are handled. Unlike traditional disposal methods, this approach avoids heavy processing or emissions. The key lies in enzymes that break down plastic at its core, dismantling stubborn compounds naturally. Subscription access now gives environmentally minded families a simple way to reduce their footprint.
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Rice murals: In the countryside of northern Japan, a small village has reimagined farming fields as enormous natural canvases. By planting different, varied-colour rice strains, residents craft massive seasonal images that only fully come into view from elevated platforms. From above, portraits, cultural tributes, and pop culture figures emerge in full clarity. The designs shift with each phase of the growing cycle, creating a moving display that changes by the week. The work reflects not only artistic skill but also ties to local identity. Footpaths, shuttles, and small towers welcome onlookers throughout the region. This unusual blend of agriculture and visual art turns the rice season into a public celebration. 
Rice murals: In the countryside of northern Japan, a small village has reimagined farming fields as enormous natural canvases. By planting different, varied-colour rice strains, residents craft massive seasonal images that only fully come into view from elevated platforms. From above, portraits, cultural tributes, and pop culture figures emerge in full clarity. The designs shift with each phase of the growing cycle, creating a moving display that changes by the week. The work reflects not only artistic skill but also ties to local identity. Footpaths, shuttles, and small towers welcome onlookers throughout the region. This unusual blend of agriculture and visual art turns the rice season into a public celebration.
Health shift: In a major public health move, Poland has launched a nationwide program offering free checkups to younger adults. Carried out at clinics across the country, the plan includes lab work and health history screening, aiming to catch warning signs of illness early. It focuses on those ages 20 to 40, encouraging preventative habits before symptoms appear. The initiative also addresses gaps in earlier systems that left many without proper follow-up. Experts say early testing can reduce long-term cases of heart disease, thyroid issues, and diabetes. With growing demand on the country’s healthcare services, this approach should ease pressure over time. The rollout comes as Poland faces staffing shortages and rising medical needs.
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“In a gentle way, you can shake the world.” - Mahatma Gandhi

“When the roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind.” - Proverb
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FREE listings for non-profit community events. 
Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca  
(Deadline Fridays - one week in advance)

Nanaimo Lions Club’s 63rd Christmas Tree Chip Up is scheduled for January 3 and 4 from 10 AM to 4 PM. At the southwest parking lot of the Nanaimo North Town Center.

Tree Chipping: At South Rona parking lot, 1250 Island Highway South, Nanaimo on Sat., Jan. 3, 9am-5pm & Sun., Jan. 4, noon to 5pm. Fundraiser for Brechin United Church, with suggested minimum donation $10. Cash only.

Bottle Drive: Mariners Volleyball Club Female 15U performance team fundraiser on Saturday, Jan. 3, 9am-noon at Barsby Secondary School.

Chemainus Classical Concerts: Brian Yoon, cello; Arin Sarkissian, flute; Monica Pfau, piano on January 11, 2026, 2pm at Sylvan United Church, 985 Shawnigan/Mill Bay Rd. $30/$10 Reserved $25. For more information, call 250-748-8383.

Marionette Puppet Folktale called The Firebird & Princess Vassilisa on January 15, 3:30-4:30pm at Cowichan/Duncan Library, 2687 James St, Duncan.  For ages 1 - 101.  Offered by the local Duncan arts group, Flying Silk Marionette Puppet Theatre. Free family event. 

Chamber Meet, Greet & Play: Sports Simulator Showdown. Presented by RimRock Casino & BCLC. Join us for a night of connection, competition & community on Thursday, January 15, 5pm. Enjoy mingling with fellow members, compete to win at golf, hockey, baseball & more. Unwind with appetizers & two drink tickets on us at the Rim Rock Casino, Port Alberni. 

Open Mic Continues! Held Friday, January 16, 7-9pm at CHRCO Hall, 2601 Alberni Hwy., Coombs Rodeo Grounds. Come show your support or step on stage and perform. Free for musicians & students. Held 3rd Friday of the month until April. This is an ‘all ages’ dry event. Check for updates at: www.chrco.org

Now Hiring: H&R Block Tax Professional. Have you previously taken the H&R Block Tax Professional Course? Are you ready to take the next step? H&R Block Duncan is seeking applicants for the Tax Season 2026. We offer flexible scheduling, opportunity for growth and will provide you with the knowledge and skills you’ll need to succeed! Job Types: Full-time/Part-time, Fixed term contract, Seasonal plus an opportunity for some off-season work. Salary: Starting at $18.10/hour plus performance based incentives. Schedule: Full-time/Part-time. Weekdays/evenings and Weekends as needed. APPLY TODAY! Call 250.748.1742 or Sandra.Reeves@hrblock.ca

Sunday Jazz: Moonlight & Mischief with Angela Verbrugge, Sunday, January 18, 6-8pm. Admission by suggested gratuity of $15 or $20. Held at 4815 Argyle St., Port Alberni. For more info call 250-730-1636. 

2026 Women’s Open Bonspiel: Presented by Berwick & The Parksville Curling Club. Saddle up, the Wild West is coming to Parksville from January 23–25, for a fun-filled weekend of great curling, themed events & top-notch ice. Teams enjoy a 5-game guarantee, Friday night BBQ, Saturday banquet, line dancing & only two Sunday draws. This event is also a Sweepers Cup qualifier. More info: 250-248-3764. 

Downsizing in 2026? Attend our free seminar. Held Wednesday, Jan. 28, 1-3pm at Nanaimo Golf Club, 2800 Highland Blvd. Learn how to downsize your home, step-by-step. You will learn purging, knowing your limits & maximizing your new smaller space & more. Reserve your spot & bring a friend! Pre-register: 250-616-3641 or ian@ianthompsonrealestate.com

Qualicum Beach Farmers Market: Every Saturday from 8:30am-12pm, year round. Come enjoy an incredible selection of fresh produce & locally produced goods. Our vendors make, bake or grow the products they offer for sale. Qualicum Beach Community Hall, 644 Veterans Way. 

Free Skate! Nanaimo Lions Club invites you to Frank Crane Arena every Sunday, 12-1:30pm. Admission & skate rentals are free.

Cherry Point Artists meet every Thursday at the Cowichan Exhibition Grounds 9:30am-1pm until June. New members welcome. Workshops & art shows are some of the activities offered. 

Cowichan Valley Probus Club has a new venue at Duncan  Community Lodge, 2244 Moose Rd. Meet first Tuesday of the month, 10:30am.  Info: cowichanvalleyprobusclub.ca  250-747-1744.

Book Your Free Home Energy Consult Today! Retrofits don’t have to be confusing. Brought to you by Home Energy Navigator & Regional District of Nanaimo. Call 1-866-381-9995.

Keep Moving, Stay Strong: Check your home for safety and trip hazards. Protect your independence. One fall can change it all. 

UK Pension Transfers: Personal/company pension left behind in the UK? Contact us to discuss options. Sterling Advisory, 1-250-863-7766 or email: mark@sterlingadvisory.com
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1. This Elizabeth Taylor movie was about a horse.
2. Who was Britain’s Prime Minister during World War II?
3. What Canadian province is known as “Land of Living Skies?”
4. The main ingredient in guacamole is _____. 
5. What is a baby goat called?
(see bottom for answers)
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Your usual, assertive dynamic may be stymied midweek. Consider borrowing a page from Libra’s playbook: approach the situation with grace and tact. Lucky numbers: 9, 10, 32, 33, 39, 41.

Your talent for plowing through obstacles may stall at week’s end. Following a more intuitive path might help, but could require you to step out of your comfort zone. Lucky numbers: 20, 21, 28, 29, 32, 45.
Geminis often use a mental framework to approach the world. For the next two months, how might you apply this skill to do something that would serve others? Lucky numbers: 3, 9, 17, 18, 29, 44.
Is your current life in alignment with what you love and value? Being out of sync is especially hard for Cancers. Look for an opportunity to change the situation. Lucky numbers: 11, 12, 13, 23, 33, 44.
An astrological aspect for the next two months is focused on being of service to others. How might you use your natural leadership abilities to aid in this effort? Lucky numbers: 15, 16, 18, 21, 23, 31.

Serving others is a theme for Virgo. For the next two months, you may have an opportunity to examine how well you are aligned to this and what changes to make. Lucky numbers: 4, 13, 29, 31, 40, 47.
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The end of the week may be a good time to focus on self care. You might be better able to help others if you are emotionally and physically healthy yourself. Lucky numbers: 1, 2, 5, 8, 18, 23.
Intuitive insights may come at you quickly and furiously this weekend. Others may not be ready to absorb them, so use discretion in how much you share with them. Lucky numbers: 8, 12, 23, 25, 29, 39.
Having a strong, coherent philosophy or belief system is important for Sagittarius. For the next two months, consider how best to express these ideas in service to others. Lucky numbers: 5, 9, 29, 30, 34, 44.
There is a strong potential right now for you to do what you love. Look for such opportunities this week, and then use your natural ambition to pursue them. Lucky numbers: 7, 12, 16, 25, 28, 29.
Helping humanity to progress is an important life theme for Aquarius. For the next two months, you may be focused on opportunities to be of service to others in this way. Lucky numbers: 2, 4, 9, 13, 15, 37.
Pisces have a talent for envisioning the world they want. Grounded energy now may offer an opportunity to make progress, but requires balancing vision and realism. Lucky numbers: 6, 10, 13, 44, 45, 46.

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Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Capricorn winners with the luckiest number being 7.
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Bite strength: The masseter, the muscle in your jaw, can clamp down with surprising force when you chew. Though small, it’s often considered one of the body’s strongest muscles, proving that power doesn’t always come from size.

Cloud creators: In the Amazon rainforest, trees help kickstart the rainy season by releasing moisture through their leaves. This process, called transpiration, fills the air with water vapour, helping clouds form before ocean winds even arrive.
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Space survivor: Tardigrades are tiny creatures often called “water bears.” They can handle deep freezes and radiation that would destroy most life. Their survival tricks fascinate scientists looking for ways to help life endure in space.

Day time: Due to slowing rotation, Earth’s day grows by about 1.8 milliseconds every hundred years. Many millions of years ago, a day lasted several hours less. This shows how much our planet’s pace has quietly shifted over time.

Shower spark: Ed Robertson, lead singer of Barenaked Ladies, composed the theme song for the TV show The Big Bang Theory while showering. That playful tune became a huge hit, bringing the band lasting success.
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Can You Spot All 10 Differences?

For answers visit www.Just4FunPuzzles.ca

Just 4 Fun Puzzles
Just 4 Fun Puzzles
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What do llamas like to eat? Llama beans.

Sign at a pottery shop: “Feats of Clay!” 

I asked my friend, Nick, if he had 5 cents I could borrow. But he was Nicholas.

Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Taylor. Taylor who? Taylor your sister to pick up her toys. 

Mother: “Son, wake up it’s 20 to 8.”
Son: “In whose favour?”
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Trivia Answers: 1. National Velvet  2. Winston Churchill  3. Saskatchewan  4. Avocado  5. A kid

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