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January 12 - 18, 2026
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Steady rhythm: When Parkinson’s disease made holding a baton difficult, Rand Laycock looked beyond medication for a solution. The longtime orchestra conductor from Ohio (U.S.) turned to advanced brain stimulation, a method that calms irregular signals affecting movement. Tiny electrodes were implanted in his brain and linked to a battery under the skin, letting specialists adjust how the device responds to symptoms. After early success, he tried a newer version that automatically adapts throughout the day, which is especially helpful when symptoms shift during stressful performances. His shaking eased, his confidence returned, and he once again could lead an orchestra without distraction.
Winged hideaway: In Dolgellau, Wales, a retired jetliner has been completely refitted into a vacation suite. Once used by an oil company, the aircraft has been stripped, cleaned, and redesigned into a two-bedroom rental, combining retro appeal with homey upgrades like wood flooring. A modern back cabin adds extra sleeping space, and an outdoor setup gives guests a place to enjoy the breeze. The plane’s original cockpit still welcomes explorers. The renovation, led by Tamir Ali, brought new life to the worn plane, which had been left unused for decades. Cream leather seats and a few 1970s touches remain, now paired with bold décor choices. The jet’s unusual layout continues to draw curious travellers year round. (watch the video of a similar suite in England)
Pet alert: When a beloved pet goes missing, every minute counts. A free service called FidoAlert is helping bridge that gap by using QR tags and a vast text-alert network to bring pets safely home. Owners register online and receive a tag that links to their pet’s profile. If the animal is lost, a simple scan of the tag sends a text alert to the owner and their chosen contacts. Neighbours nearby also are notified through the network, increasing the likelihood that a lost pet will be spotted and quickly returned. The service has already reunited over 40,000 pets with their families. It’s an easy and welcome extra layer of peace of mind for pet lovers everywhere.
Reef revival: A team in San Diego, California (U.S.), has developed a new coating inspired by pink algae to help coral reefs bounce back. Applied to underwater surfaces, the mixture slowly releases natural cues that encourage coral larvae to settle and grow. These cues mimic the signals emitted by crusty algae that help guide larvae in the wild. Earlier attempts at reef restoration relied on lab-grown corals, which lacked variety and shared weak points. This method invites more genetic diversity by encouraging natural settlement instead. Outdoor tests showed strong results when the coating was used in real seawater. The technique offers a promising way to strengthen reef ecosystems without introducing live materials.
“Like a bird singing in the rain, let grateful memories survive in time of sorrow.” - Robert Louis Stevenson
“No man is the whole of himself; his friends are the rest of him.”
- Harry Emerson Fosdick
FREE listings for non-profit community events.
Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca
(Deadline Fridays - one week in advance)
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.
Nanaimo Hub City Stamp Club Meeting: Held January 12, 1:30-4pm at Mt. Benson Legion, 1630 Wellington Ave. Donations welcome. Will pick up. For info, email shulbert@shaw.ca or call Sandra, 250-933-1249.
Qualicum Beach Garden Club Meeting: Held January 13, 7:30pm at Qualicum Beach Civic Centre. Become a member for $15. If you’re not a member, $5 at the door.
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.
Nanaimo Family History Meeting: Monday, January 19, 7-9pm. Linda Yip of Saskatoon (SK) presents ‘The Intriguing Story of Two Chinese Nanaimoites in the Special Operations Executive during WWII’. Meeting via Zoom only. More info at: nanaimofamilyhistory.ca
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.
Rodger & Hammerstein’s ‘Cinderella the Musical’: Living under the tyranny of her evil Stepmother & mean stepsisters, Cinderella dreams of the day she can leave it all behind. Show starts Jan. 23 & runs until Feb. 1st at Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St, Duncan. For times & to purchase tickets, visit cowichanpac.ca
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
22nd Annual Qualicum Beach Seedy Saturday: Sat., Feb. 7, 10am-3:30pm at Qualicum Beach Civic Centre. Admission by donation. Visit: www.qbseedysaturday.ca for more information.
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
1. Who wrote the novel Gulliver’s Travels?
2. How many geese are “a-laying” in the carol “Twelve Days of Christmas”?
3. What mythical bird gains new life by rising from the ashes?
4. Kombu, wakame, and hijiki are all edible types of what plant?
5. This Dutch artist painted “Sunflowers.”
2. How many geese are “a-laying” in the carol “Twelve Days of Christmas”?
3. What mythical bird gains new life by rising from the ashes?
4. Kombu, wakame, and hijiki are all edible types of what plant?
5. This Dutch artist painted “Sunflowers.”
(see bottom for answers)
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You may have an urge right now to be a warrior and to fight for something that you value. This energy will only be in play for about a month, so plan accordingly. Lucky numbers: 3, 13, 14, 16, 20, 39.
Are you feeling restricted in some aspect of your life? A new opportunity may surface for you to reflect your authenticity, but you might need to actively reach out for it. Lucky numbers: 5, 18, 24, 33, 39, 47.
As the week starts, your head and heart may be out of sync about how to proceed. If you can’t reconcile the two, consider postponing action for a few days. Lucky numbers: 4, 10, 11, 30, 46, 48.
Clearly communicating your thoughts and ambitions may be difficult midweek. Reach for your natural empathy to help identify and work through the stalemate. Lucky numbers: 17, 19, 21, 31, 37, 42.
Opportunities may continue to arise to evaluate how your leadership skills can serve others. But this may require temporarily putting aside your ego to reach that goal. Lucky numbers: 6, 9, 12, 16, 25, 33.
Virgos have a tendency to stick to tried-and-true methods to accomplish objectives. But at the end of the week, out-of-the-box thinking may achieve a better result. Lucky numbers: 8, 13, 27, 30, 37, 40.
You may find yourself drawn to someone unusual for you. The energy that brings this attraction only lasts for a month. Be aware of this when deciding how to proceed. Lucky numbers: 13, 22, 31, 32, 43, 46.
Do you feel supported by a partner to be your genuine self? Any conflict about this could peak during the next month, and you may be forced to address it. Lucky numbers: 10, 12, 15, 25, 37, 47.
As the week starts, you may feel fully in the flow of the energy. This might only be in effect for a few days. So be aware and enjoy the energy while it lasts. Lucky numbers: 2, 8, 15, 26, 29, 36.
If you need to make a presentation to garner support from others, midweek may be a good time for it. Others might appreciate your serious approach to this endeavour. Lucky numbers: 9, 10, 24, 31, 36, 46.
This week may be a good time to set new intentions to help achieve your goals. Be sure your efforts are in alignment with your values regarding human progress. Lucky numbers: 7, 9, 12, 13, 16, 24.
Saturn and Neptune soon return from Pisces back to Aries. This may signal a good time to review your current endeavours and make any changes as the planets shift. Lucky numbers: 1, 9, 12, 23, 31, 39.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Taurus winners with the luckiest number being 33.
Haunted harmonies: Before he was a household name, actor Ryan Gosling co-founded the band Dead Man’s Bones. He was fascinated with ghosts and haunted themes as a child. The band’s eerie album even features a children’s choir for an extra haunting touch.
Planet protector: Earth’s magnetic field acts like a giant shield, protecting life from the Sun’s charged particles. Without it, the planet would be left exposed to intense solar winds that could harm living things below.
Sting legend: The bullet ant, in Central and South America, is the strongest stinging insect, delivering intense pain comparable to a gunshot. The reddish-brown insects hunt, guard, and forage to keep their large, tree-based colonies thriving.
Pod surprise: When sesame pods ripen, they don’t open gently. They suddenly split with a pop, scattering seeds everywhere. That explosive motion may be what inspired the magical phrase “Open sesame!” in ancient tales.
Subsea surge: Beneath the ocean, powerful underwater rivers carry sediment over vast distances, carving deep canyons into the sea floor. These hidden flows shape huge valleys and help nourish deep-sea life, yet they remain largely mysterious and unseen.
The first boat show had a yacht to offer.
I used to be a motorcycle courier. Boy those things are heavy!
Inspector: “Why is that skyscraper sneezing?”
Foreman: “Maybe it has a building code.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Nadia. Nadia who? Nadia your head if you know what I am saying.
What do you get when you cross a computer with a lifeguard? A screen saver.
I used to be a motorcycle courier. Boy those things are heavy!
Inspector: “Why is that skyscraper sneezing?”
Foreman: “Maybe it has a building code.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Nadia. Nadia who? Nadia your head if you know what I am saying.
What do you get when you cross a computer with a lifeguard? A screen saver.
Trivia Answers: 1. Jonathan Swift 2. 6 3. Phoenix 4. Seaweed 5. Vincent Van Gogh
PDF Versions of our Publication
(just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants)
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Print versions are currently available in:
Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Errington, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay & Victoria.
More areas coming soon!
January 5 - 11, 2026
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
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.
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.
“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
“When the roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind.” - Proverb
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
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?
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.
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.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Capricorn winners with the luckiest number being 7.
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.
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.
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?”
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?”
Trivia Answers: 1. National Velvet 2. Winston Churchill 3. Saskatchewan 4. Avocado 5. A kid
PDF Versions of our Publication
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CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Print versions are currently available in:
Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Errington, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay & Victoria.
More areas coming soon!
December 22 - January 4, 2026
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
ATM alchemy: What if the local ATM bought gold, instead of dispensing cash? Such a device is turning heads in Shanghai, China. Customers drop in old jewelry or coins, and the machine uses heat and sensors to analyze, melt, and evaluate each item. After it confirms the gold’s quality, a direct deposit goes to the user’s account, based on up-to-the-minute market rates. The process requires no forms and only accepts items above a certain weight and purity. The idea quickly gained attention, with crowds lining up and appointment slots filling fast. Some online viewers have raised questions about safety and accuracy, but others see it as a modern answer to old-fashioned pawning. For now, it’s drawing plenty of interest, and plenty of gold.
Stride ride: Walking got a rethink when a Dutch designer wondered what would happen if treadmills hit the street. Built like a bicycle but powered differently, this ride replaces the usual pedals with a moving treadmill belt, letting people walk in place while cruising ahead with help from an electric motor. The contraption, called a Lopifit, can roll faster than a casual stroll but doesn’t leave riders out of breath or drenched in sweat. It handles like an e-bike but feels more like a sidewalk on wheels. The idea became a real transport option that’s now popping up in cities across the world. Riders don’t need cycling experience, just a desire to walk farther than usual. It might look strange, but it definitely turns heads.
Cancer scanner: A team of American high school students have created an app that could change lives. Using AI, their oral scan app spots potential mouth cancers from a simple smartphone photo, offering an accessible tool in rural areas when dental care can be scarce. The app, originating in the state of Arkansas (U.S.), was designed to be quick, intuitive, and usable worldwide. Its ease of use could make early detection available to more people. The students entered the app in a national competition, and secured a $50,000 (USD) grant for their school. Awards are exciting, but the team’s real win is already clear: their work is raising awareness and drawing attention at medical conferences. A small app is creating a big ripple.
Hive revolution: In fields where blossoms no longer meet demand, a new feeding solution has given honey bee colonies a fresh chance. Developed to mimic the full spectrum of nutrients bees find in pollen, a bar-like supplement has shown promise in helping hives stay active through tough seasons. Trials revealed stronger colony growth and survival where natural sources fall short, especially during pollination of crops like blueberries. The formula includes a rare plant molecule thought to support larval health and adult vitality. Fed directly inside the hive, it reaches bees in all stages of life. Instead of relying on what’s blooming, beekeepers might soon rely on this as a steady resource.
“Worrying is like paying a debt you don’t owe.” - Mark Twain
“Friendships that have stood the test - Time and change - are surely best.”
- Joseph Parry
FREE listings for non-profit community events.
Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca
(Deadline Fridays - one week in advance)
Chemainus Saturday Market: A Chemainus United Church Fundraiser at 9814 Willow St., 10am–2pm on Dec. 20. Table rentals $25. Text Joyce: 250-533-9392 or joyce.cloakey@gmail.com
ECHO Players presents Holy Pantomime, Bratman! Village Theatre, Qualicum Beach, Dec. 11-28, Wed-Sat 7:30pm, Sundays 2pm. Get your tickets at echoplayers.ca or call 250-752-3522.
Jack & the Beanstalk Production: Held at the Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Nanaimo December 14-31. Cost $20. Information: nanaimotheatregroup.ca
Blue Christmas: A service of hope for the moments of sadness in this season of joy. Grieving, lonesome, anxious about the Holiday Season? Join others on Dec. 20, 2pm at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 4235 Departure Bay Rd., Nanaimo. Everyone is welcome. Info: 250-758-2676.
Celebrate the 10th Anniversary Winter Solstice Music Tour! Heart warming songs, stories & harmony supporting Mischa Lelum Youth Shelter. Held Dec. 20th, 3pm & 7pm, at St. Peters Quamichan Anglican Church. Tickets: cariburdett.com/winter-solstice-show
Discover Holiday Magic at the Mistletoe Market at Harbour Quay, (Port Alberni) hosted by the Grove Gallery & the Community Arts Council of the Alberni Valley. Open until December 21. A festive showcase of local artisans, offering unique, handcrafted gifts perfect for everyone on your list.
‘Longest Night’ Service: Held Dec. 21, 7pm. Christmas Eve candlelight services at 4pm & 7pm. Christmas Day worship at 10am. All are welcome at Our Saviour Lutheran Church.795 Island Highway West, Parksville.
A Wonderheads Christmas Carol: Bringing the magic of imagination to the stage, featuring spectacular giant masks, whimsical puppets & wondrous theatrical invention. Dec. 23, 7:30pm & Dec. 24, 12pm at Port Theatre. Suitable for ages 7+. For tickets, visit: tickets@porttheatre.com
West Coast Winter Wonderland 2025: The cherished tradition, ice skating event until Dec. 24, the Alberni Valley Multiplex transforms into a festive haven, offering free ice skating & rentals, generously sponsored by local organizations. Dates & times at: albernivalleytourism.com/alberni-valley-winter-wonderland
Nanaimo & District Men’s Shed Society: Where men connect & work on community projects & chat. Info: 250-327-2379.
Global Village Nanaimo Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade store located at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Open now until Dec. 24.
New Year’s Eve Family Celebration: Kicking off at 5pm, featuring a kid-friendly countdown at 7pm, the free celebration at Oceanside Place Arena. Free tickets are required & can be picked up at the Oceanside Place Arena. Info: www.visitparksvillequalicumbeach.com/blog/new-years-eve
3rd Annual Kids New Years Eve Dance Party: Celebrate the New Year at The Bradley Centre in Coombs, 4:30–6pm. Dance to the year’s top hits as DJ Connor creates a fun soundtrack for the evening’s festivities. Join the countdown to 6pm & ring in the New Year a little early!
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.
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.
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
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.
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
1. A peanut is a legume - T/F?
2. What was the first Mickey Mouse film to include sound?
3. The only butterfly known to migrate in two directions is the _____.
4. Which planet in our solar system has the most moons?
5. In what year did East Germany and West Germany reunify?
2. What was the first Mickey Mouse film to include sound?
3. The only butterfly known to migrate in two directions is the _____.
4. Which planet in our solar system has the most moons?
5. In what year did East Germany and West Germany reunify?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
The theme of shoring up a healthy self-image continues this week. Look for information that can deepen your insights in this regard. It may come from unexpected sources. Lucky numbers: 18, 25, 26, 27, 36, 38.
You may have an opportunity this week to initiate disciplined change in your life. You may want to take advantage of it now to avoid a more disruptive change next spring. Lucky numbers: 8, 20, 30, 34, 43, 47.
Geminis often use mental frameworks to approach the world. The next few weeks may offer chances to use your physical senses instead, perhaps a positive change for you. Lucky numbers: 2, 10, 22, 26, 37, 46.
Splashy is not a word one would typically associate with Cancers. However, this weekend may be a good time to step out of your comfort zone and indulge. Lucky numbers: 1, 13, 16, 18, 33, 47.
Are you running into obstacles in a project involving a number of other individuals? If you step up and lead, you could help foster a result that would be beneficial to all. Lucky numbers: 3, 6, 15, 38, 42, 44.
Virgos are good at managing the mundane aspects of life. This is important, but placing these efforts in a larger context is equally so. You are encouraged to do this now. Lucky numbers: 10, 13, 15, 19, 28, 45.
Is there something you need to say or do this weekend? Don’t hold back, but also don’t abandon your typical Libra tact and diplomacy. A balance may be necessary. Lucky numbers: 4, 10, 18, 20, 35, 45.
Are you looking for a partner who can accept you for who you truly are? The next few weeks may provide an opportunity to do so. Your intuition will know who. Lucky numbers: 5, 8, 15, 25, 34, 38.
What are you passionate about? Over the next few weeks, consider your values, then find a practical, grounded way to advance them. Your search could be worth the results. Lucky numbers: 7, 10, 26, 27, 35, 43.
Venus will be holding court in Capricorn for the next several weeks. It’s time for flowers and candy, but also may be a good opportunity for a quiet discussion about the future. Lucky numbers: 6, 9, 15, 21, 32, 36.
Did you find a project last week to make a small step toward a larger goal? If so, keep going now. If not, you may find that you have another opportunity this week. Lucky numbers: 14, 20, 22, 33, 40, 42.
Are you feeling frustrated that a desire you are trying to manifest is causing discontent? As Pisces well knows, the universe has its reasons when a door doesn’t open for us. Lucky numbers: 9, 25, 29, 35, 44, 46.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Cancer winners with the luckiest number being 33.
Ear grabber: Tested against hundreds of popular tracks, the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe” stood out as one of the most instantly recognized tunes. In an experiment, people picked it out faster than most other songs, proof that its catchy melody was hard to miss.
Land fish: Mudskippers aren’t just fish with lungs. They spend much of their lives on land, so these amphibious creatures breathe through their skin and their mouths’ lining. By carrying water in their mouths, they keep their gills moist and supplied with oxygen.
Blazing bolts: A lightning strike can reach temperatures several times hotter than the surface of the sun. This extreme heat makes each bolt a powerful force, creating not just brilliant flashes but also the risk of severe burns.
Pineapple patience: Growing a pineapple takes serious time, often stretching from a year and a half to several years. Even if the plant never bears fruit, growing it is still a fun and eye-catching way to bring a tropical vibe indoors.
Lens legend: In 1674, Antonie van Leeuwenhoek looked through a self-made microscope and discovered tiny, wriggling creatures in a drop of lake water. This cloth merchant secured his place in science history by being the first person to describe bacteria.
Anne: “Why are all the cars honking their horns?”
Charlie: “It’s ‘beep’ year.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Worm. Worm who? It’s worm here. Please open a window.
Why did the doctor keep checking his TV? To see if it was operational.
Venetian blinds are made by shady characters.
Santa’s best toymaking elf struck out on her own. Now she’s extremely welfy.
Charlie: “It’s ‘beep’ year.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Worm. Worm who? It’s worm here. Please open a window.
Why did the doctor keep checking his TV? To see if it was operational.
Venetian blinds are made by shady characters.
Santa’s best toymaking elf struck out on her own. Now she’s extremely welfy.
Trivia Answers: 1. True 2. Steamboat Willie 3. Monarch 4. Saturn 5. 1990
PDF Versions of our Publication
(just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Print versions are currently available in:
Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Errington, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay & Victoria.
More areas coming soon!
December 15 - 21, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Submerged sculptures: After witnessing storm-ravaged coral reefs in Grenada, sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor decided to shape his work for the ocean. Instead of gallery walls, his concrete creations rest underwater, built to attract marine life and grow with the sea. The statues, made using scans or casts of local people, offer surface textures that invite algae, corals, and sea creatures to settle and thrive. He takes care to avoid harming the ecosystems; input from biologists and coastal communities guide each placement. Beyond just replacing damaged reefs, these structures also reflect the stories and culture of the people nearby. As tides shift, the artwork slowly transforms. In a way, each piece begins only after it’s been left behind.
Lake lifeline: Once clogged with weeds, a famous lake in Srinagar, India, is now seeing a clever comeback, fuelled by an unlikely source. Entrepreneur Maninder Singh created a system that turns invasive lake plants into valuable organic fertilizer. His team harvests the aquatic growth, processes it, and supplies local farmers with a sustainable product that boosts crops and cuts costs. The effort also clears away decaying weeds that once fouled the air during hot months, making the lake more inviting for both wildlife and visitors. Encouraged by success in Srinagar, Singh aims to bring this model to other overgrown lakes across India. Sometimes the best solution grows from the problem itself.
Primate phrases: Bonobos, which are small apes closely related to humans, are revealing a surprising skill in the forests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They combine their calls to express complex meanings. Researchers found that these vocal patterns mirror how humans string words together. Some combinations simply stack meanings, while others subtly shift the message, like saying “bad dancer” instead of just “bad” and “dancer.” The team built a reference of bonobo sounds, then tracked how they combined over time and across different social settings. Their findings suggest this ability may stretch far back into our shared evolutionary history. It seems these clever apes have been mixing and matching words all along.
Factory reset: Outside Barcelona, Spain, an old cement plant once thick with dust has become something entirely different. Architect Ricardo Bofill saw more than decay when he bought the place: he saw potential. Over time, he kept what others would scrap, turning giant chimneys and broken staircases into a blend of home and studio. Each odd corner was reshaped rather than removed, adding new purpose without erasing the old. With concrete towers still looming above, the space now holds lush gardens, wide windows, and open-air rooms. Though never truly “finished,” the building became a place where past industry meets new ideas. Even now, it stands as a reminder that some projects are meant to keep evolving.
“Find out who you are. And do it on purpose.” - Dolly Parton
“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
- J.R.R. Tolkien
FREE listings for non-profit community events.
Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca
(Deadline Fridays - one week in advance)
Chemainus Saturday Market: A Chemainus United Church Fundraiser at 9814 Willow St., 10am–2pm on Dec. 13 & 20. Table rentals $25. Text Joyce: 250-533-9392 or joyce.cloakey@gmail.com
ECHO Players presents Holy Pantomime, Bratman! Village Theatre, Qualicum Beach, Dec. 11-28, Wed-Sat 7:30pm, Sundays 2pm. Get your tickets at echoplayers.ca or call 250-752-3522.
Very Merry Little Christmas Craft Market: Hosted by Volunteer Nanaimo has affordable holiday shopping on Sat., Dec. 13, 11am-4pm, St Andrews Presbyterian Church, 4235 Departure Bay Rd., Nanaimo.
Enchanting Christmas Tea: A fundraiser for St. Andrew’s building fund Sat., Dec. 13, 3-4:30pm at St. Andrew’s United Church on Wesley St. Delicious snacks & musical entertainment. Reserve $25 tix at 250-753-1924.
Errington Christmas Craft Faire: Dec. 13, 10am-3pm. A seasonal staple for gift & holiday treat shopping for decades. Join us at Errington War Memorial Hall, 1390 Errington Rd. Admission by donation.
A Market That Sleighs: A Two Chicks & a Llama Artisan Market on Dec. 13, 10am-3pm at Jensen Centre, 132 Jensen Ave E, Parksville. Featuring 65 vendors of locally made goods.
Jack & the Beanstalk Production: Held at the Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Nanaimo December 14-31. Cost $20. Information: nanaimotheatregroup.ca
35th Annual Christmas Bird Count: Sun., Dec. 14 for the Parksville, Errington, Qualicum areas. Count in your yard or join a team in the field for the day. New birders are welcome. For more information, email: susanknoerr@gmail.com
Sunday Jazz Social with The Barry Miller Quartet: Held Sunday, December 14, 6-8pm. Doors open at 5pm. 4815 Argyle St., Port Alberni.
‘Sing Your Heart Out’: Join Trinity Church, 4766 Angus St., Port Alberni for an evening of singing Christmas Carols. Come as you are & all are welcome on Dec. 19, 7-8:30pm. There is no entry fee but a donation to our community food cupboard would be very helpful.
Blue Christmas: A service of hope for the moments of sadness in this season of joy. Grieving, lonesome, anxious about the Holiday Season? Join others on Dec. 20, 2pm at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 4235 Departure Bay Rd., Nanaimo. Everyone is welcome. Info: 250-758-2676.
Celebrate the 10th Anniversary Winter Solstice Music Tour! Heart warming songs, stories & harmony supporting Mischa Lelum Youth Shelter. Held Dec. 20th, 3pm & 7pm, at St. Peters Quamichan Anglican Church. Tickets: cariburdett.com/winter-solstice-show
Discover Holiday Magic at the Mistletoe Market at Harbour Quay, (Port Alberni) hosted by the Grove Gallery & the Community Arts Council of the Alberni Valley. Open until December 21. A festive showcase of local artisans, offering unique, handcrafted gifts perfect for everyone on your list.
‘Longest Night’ Service: Held Dec. 21, 7pm. Christmas Eve candlelight services at 4pm & 7pm. Christmas Day worship at 10am. All are welcome at Our Saviour Lutheran Church.795 Island Highway West, Parksville.
A Wonderheads Christmas Carol: Bringing the magic of imagination to the stage, featuring spectacular giant masks, whimsical puppets & wondrous theatrical invention. Dec. 23, 7:30pm & Dec. 24, 12pm at Port Theatre. Suitable for ages 7+. For tickets, visit: tickets@porttheatre.com
West Coast Winter Wonderland 2025: The cherished tradition, ice skating event until Dec. 24, the Alberni Valley Multiplex transforms into a festive haven, offering free ice skating & rentals, generously sponsored by local organizations. Dates & times at: albernivalleytourism.com/alberni-valley-winter-wonderland
Nanaimo & District Men’s Shed Society: Where men connect & work on community projects & chat. Info: 250-327-2379.
Global Village Nanaimo Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade store located at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Open now until Dec. 24.
New Year’s Eve Family Celebration: Kicking off at 5pm, featuring a kid-friendly countdown at 7pm, the free celebration at Oceanside Place Arena. Free tickets are required & can be picked up at the Oceanside Place Arena. Info: www.visitparksvillequalicumbeach.com/blog/new-years-eve
3rd Annual Kids New Years Eve Dance Party: Celebrate the New Year at The Bradley Centre in Coombs, 4:30–6pm. Dance to the year’s top hits as DJ Connor creates a fun soundtrack for the evening’s festivities. Join the countdown to 6pm & ring in the New Year a little early!
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.
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.
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
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.
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
1. A merganser is a type of duck, wool, or tool?
2. Robert Louis Stevenson wrote Kidnapped - T/F?
3. Is an Airedale a type of sporting, terrier, or hound dog breed?
4. The Lascaux _____ paintings depict Paleolithic images of animals.
5. A pence, farthing, and shilling are examples of this.
2. Robert Louis Stevenson wrote Kidnapped - T/F?
3. Is an Airedale a type of sporting, terrier, or hound dog breed?
4. The Lascaux _____ paintings depict Paleolithic images of animals.
5. A pence, farthing, and shilling are examples of this.
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Self love is going to be an important theme for you in the next few weeks. Look for opportunities that could reinforce a healthy sense of self, rather than a wounded image. Lucky numbers: 1, 2, 14, 29, 35, 36.
Taurus individuals often have their nose to the grindstone. This week, however, consider raising your eyes to the sky and focusing on how to achieve your highest dreams. Lucky numbers: 5, 11, 20, 22, 33, 47.
At week’s end, you may run into a stalemate between desires of your heart vs. those of your head. If you can reconcile them, consider setting your intentions into a new goal. Lucky numbers: 3, 4, 5, 7, 28, 35.
This may be a good time to examine your beliefs and values. Do they align with your current endeavours? If not, what adjustment in your viewpoint would move you forward? Lucky numbers: 16, 24, 28, 29, 31, 38.
Leos often have a childlike enthusiasm to start projects, but have difficulty completing them. Next month, you may have an opportunity to integrate a more grounded energy. Lucky numbers: 6, 13, 16, 20, 35, 38.
For the next month, the astrological energy has a grounded quality that should encourage you to feel comfortable in your own skin. Take a deep breath and enjoy this time. Lucky numbers: 12, 15, 24, 30, 36, 38.
To maintain a calm environment, Libras sometimes focus on others, rather than on their own ambitions. But at the week’s end, you may want to pursue your own desires. Lucky numbers: 14, 15, 21, 22, 37, 40.
The intuitive abilities of Scorpio may sometimes immerse you in the deep seas of the unconscious. Later in the week, seek an opportunity to better navigate these waters. Lucky numbers: 11, 17, 24, 30, 41, 44.
At the end of the week, your mind and emotions may be in balance. This could be a good time to consider your goals, and to set new intentions regarding them. Lucky numbers: 4, 7, 10, 13, 27, 35.
Your birthday month is a good time to review your accomplishments and set goals for the new year. The energy this month could help you jumpstart these efforts. Lucky numbers: 7, 16, 18, 24, 39, 47.
Those with an Aquarius Sun often have lofty goals, but may have difficulty carving out small projects to advance them. The grounded energy this month could help you do so. Lucky numbers: 8, 17, 29, 40, 42, 47.
The energy this week may feel heavy or even oppressive at times. It may be helpful to acknowledge your feelings while simultaneously putting forth your best effort. Lucky numbers: 2, 5, 9, 14, 20, 23.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Capricorn winners with the luckiest number being 7.
Floating feelings: Without gravity to pull them down, tears in space don’t fall. They stay stuck to your face. Astronauts have to wipe them away instead. Even small and natural reactions work differently when there’s no up or down.
Arc logic: A rainbow appears when sunlight bounces and bends at just the right angle through falling raindrops. This only happens when the sun is behind you and moisture is ahead in the sky. You’ll never see one if you directly face the sun.
Mortgage miracle: British singer Ed Sheeran co-wrote “Thinking Out Loud” with his friend Amy Wadge when she was short on money. The song’s massive success helped change her situation, providing financial security and easing her worries about expenses.
Calm companions: Cows do better if they have company. Studies show they stay more relaxed, learn faster, and even produce more milk when raised with a familiar peer. Like many animals, cows seem to thrive on close social bonds.
Giant underground: Hidden beneath the Malheur National Forest in Oregon (U.S.), a colossal fungus quietly spreads in soil by feeding on tree roots. The “Humongous Fungus” is one of the largest living things on Earth, stretching over 3 square miles (7.8 sq. km).
Do you want to hear the story of a basketball player? It’s a tall tale.
Tip: “Why are you putting iodine on your paycheque?”
Top: “Because I just got a cut in my salary.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Distressing. Distressing who? Distressing has too much vinegar.
Why didn’t the nut like the bolt? Because he was screwed up.
Tweezers will do in a pinch.
Tip: “Why are you putting iodine on your paycheque?”
Top: “Because I just got a cut in my salary.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Distressing. Distressing who? Distressing has too much vinegar.
Why didn’t the nut like the bolt? Because he was screwed up.
Tweezers will do in a pinch.
Trivia Answers: 1. Duck 2. True 3. Terrier 4. Cave 5. British currency
PDF Versions of our Publication
(just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Print versions are currently available in:
Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Errington, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay & Victoria.
More areas coming soon!
December 8 - 14, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Porcelain drift: The circular hall of the Bourse de Commerce in Paris, France, hosts a quietly strange display. Porcelain bowls drift across a pool and chime as they bump into one another. The work by artist Céleste Boursier-Mougenot fills the space with gentle sound, shaped by water and motion. There’s no conductor, only subtle currents guiding the bowls and shaping the experience. The artist designed this piece to fit the architecture, turning the domed gallery into a kind of living instrument. As visitors sit near the basin, they become part of the installation by being still. With no beginning or end, the piece invites pause, letting randomness take the lead. It’s a thoughtful installation where sound and movement naturally unfold.
Ambulance gift: In a generous move, India donated 88 ambulances to Sri Lanka, helping to build the country’s first national emergency service. The fleet now provides free, round-the-clock transport, reaching patients in cities and remote areas. Many lives have been saved thanks to the quick response and skilled care provided along the way. Originally a goodwill gesture, these vehicles now play a key role in Sri Lanka’s healthcare. They respond to strokes, cardiac events, road accidents, and other emergencies where every minute matters. Combined with additional public health gains, the ambulances have helped boost health outcomes nationwide. A single gift can keep making a difference, long after the ribbon is cut.
Nature break: Tucked along a scenic rail line in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, a quiet platform has become a surprise destination. Seiryu Miharashi Station isn’t meant for commuting. It has no entrance, no buildings, and no roads. Instead, it invites train passengers to briefly step off and absorb the view: a winding river cutting through steep hills, with forested slopes that shift in colour across the seasons. The platform includes lookout areas, but nothing more. There are no distractions and no hurry. Visitors often linger, taking photos or walking on nearby trails before continuing their journey. Its unexpected popularity has brought new life to local tourism. The station simply gives people a reason to pause and enjoy the view.
Heroic hound: A ranch dog named Buford emerged as an unexpected hero in the wild canyons near Seligman, Arizona (U.S.). After a young boy vanished into the desert, traversing nearly 7 miles (11.3 km), Buford somehow found him and led him toward safety. Search teams, navigating rugged ground and wildlife threats, were stunned to see the pair appear together at last. The boy explained he’d sheltered under a tree before deciding to follow the friendly canine. Rescuers called the outcome astonishing, given the risks and harsh desert conditions the boy faced. Unfazed by the attention, Buford returned home to hearty praise and a well-earned feast. Sometimes a dog’s steady heart can lead the way when hope begins to fade.
“The meaning of life is to give life a meaning.” - Viktor Frankl
“The universe is full of magical things patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper.” - Eden Phillpotts
“The universe is full of magical things patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper.” - Eden Phillpotts
FREE listings for non-profit community events.
Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca
(Deadline Fridays - one week in advance)
Chemainus Saturday Market: A Chemainus United Church Fundraiser at 9814 Willow St., 10am–2pm on Dec. 6, 13 & 20. Table rentals $25. Text Joyce: 250-533-9392 or joyce.cloakey@gmail.com
Last Stop Christmas Shop Market: Saturday, Dec. 6 & Sunday, Dec. 7, 10am-4pm at Coombs Rodeo Grounds, 2601 Alberni Hwy., Coombs. Table rentals: Julia, 250-240-0516.
Chemainus Classical Concerts: Domagoj Ivanovic, violin; Noel McRobbie, piano, Dec. 7, 2:30pm St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $30/$10.Reserved: $25. Phone 250-748-8383.
Nanaimo Concert Band Christmas Concert: ‘A Winter’s Journey’ at Beban Auditorium, Dec, 7, 2:30pm. Admission by donation of non-perishable food or monetary donation to the Salvation Army Kettle Drive.
Calling All Artists! Want to participate in the Cowichan Lake Arts Centre’s Annual Xmas Pop-Up Market on Dec. 10-24? 7 days/week, 10am - 2pm, 10375 Youbou Rd. Info: JenniferC@cowichanlakeartsandculture.org
ECHO Players presents Holy Pantomime, Bratman! Village Theatre, Qualicum Beach, Dec. 11-28, Wed-Sat 7:30pm, Sundays 2pm. Get your tickets at echoplayers.ca or call 250-752-3522.
Very Merry Little Christmas Craft Market: Hosted by Volunteer Nanaimo has affordable holiday shopping on Sat., Dec. 13, 11am-4pm, St Andrews Presbyterian Church, 4235 Departure Bay Rd., Nanaimo.
Enchanting Christmas Tea: A fundraiser for St. Andrew’s building fund Sat., Dec. 13, 3-4:30pm at St. Andrew’s United Church on Wesley St. Delicious snacks & musical entertainment. Reserve $25 tix at 250-753-1924.
Errington Christmas Craft Faire: Dec. 13, 10am-3pm. A seasonal staple for gift & holiday treat shopping for decades. Join us at Errington War Memorial Hall, 1390 Errington Rd. Admission by donation.
A Market That Sleighs: A Two Chicks & a Llama Artisan Market on Dec. 13, 10am-3pm at Jensen Centre, 132 Jensen Ave E, Parksville. Featuring 65 vendors of locally made goods.
Jack & the Beanstalk Production: Held at the Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Nanaimo December 14-31. Cost $20. Information: nanaimotheatregroup.ca
35th Annual Christmas Bird Count: Sun., Dec. 14 for the Parksville, Errington, Qualicum areas. Count in your yard or join a team in the field for the day. New birders are welcome. For more information, email: susanknoerr@gmail.com
Sunday Jazz Social with The Barry Miller Quartet: Held Sunday, December 14, 6-8pm. Doors open at 5pm. 4815 Argyle St., Port Alberni.
Blue Christmas: A service of hope for the moments of sadness in this season of joy. Grieving, lonesome, anxious about the Holiday Season? Join others on Dec. 20, 2pm at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 4235 Departure Bay Rd., Nanaimo. Everyone is welcome. Info: 250-758-2676.
Celebrate the 10th Anniversary Winter Solstice Music Tour! Heart warming songs, stories & harmony supporting Mischa Lelum Youth Shelter. Held Dec. 20th, 3pm & 7pm, at St. Peters Quamichan Anglican Church. Tickets: cariburdett.com/winter-solstice-show
Discover Holiday Magic at the Mistletoe Market at Harbour Quay, (Port Alberni) hosted by the Grove Gallery & the Community Arts Council of the Alberni Valley. Open until December 21. A festive showcase of local artisans, offering unique, handcrafted gifts perfect for everyone on your list.
West Coast Winter Wonderland 2025: The cherished tradition, ice skating event until Dec. 24, the Alberni Valley Multiplex transforms into a festive haven, offering free ice skating & rentals, generously sponsored by local organizations. Dates & times at: albernivalleytourism.com/alberni-valley-winter-wonderland
Nanaimo & District Men’s Shed Society: Where men connect & work on community projects & chat. Info: 250-327-2379.
Global Village Nanaimo Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade store located at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Open now until Dec. 24.
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.
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
1. A peninsula, neck, or isthmus is narrow land connecting two larger masses.
2. France had three major revolutions - T/F?
3. What does heat measurement BTU mean?
4. This artist painted the Sistine Chapel ceiling.
5. A formation of rock on the top of hills is a tor, tumble, or butte?
2. France had three major revolutions - T/F?
3. What does heat measurement BTU mean?
4. This artist painted the Sistine Chapel ceiling.
5. A formation of rock on the top of hills is a tor, tumble, or butte?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
You may have an opportunity during the middle of this week to advance your philosophy and beliefs. Try not to let an old issue hold you back from seizing this chance. Lucky numbers: 15, 22, 27, 29, 38, 48.
You may receive insights at midweek that challenge your current values and beliefs. Be open to adjusting your perspective to accommodate this new information. Lucky numbers: 12, 13, 16, 18, 37, 41.
The next few weeks may find you in overload mode, with too much to do. It might be helpful for you to find a healthy outlet or two to help you process any resulting anxiety. Lucky numbers: 3, 6, 8, 34, 40, 47.
Cancers are sometimes reluctant to come out of their shells to seize an opportunity in unfamiliar territory. What adjustment in your view of the situation could help you do so? Lucky numbers: 6, 7, 9, 16, 35, 45.
People usually see Leos as charming, but you may be having difficulties now. How could you adjust your viewpoint to see the situation from the perspectives of others? Lucky numbers: 17, 21, 23, 26, 35, 40.
The energy at midweek continues last week’s pattern. You may have a heightened ability to focus on implementing necessary details to complete your current endeavours. Lucky numbers: 7, 10, 13, 21, 36, 37.
Your natural tact and diplomacy might be highlighted to others at midweek. Could you use these abilities to help yourself or others who are struggling with a standoff? Lucky numbers: 9, 11, 14, 17, 41, 48.
At the week’s end, you may find that your mood is darker than normal. If possible, consider retreating from view for a few days to give yourself time to process your emotions. Lucky numbers: 11, 12, 18, 19, 37, 45.
You may feel an itch now to travel or study something new. Take time now to explore your options, but consider waiting a few weeks to make a final decision. Lucky numbers: 1, 4, 7, 16, 20, 38.
A new opportunity may emerge this week to deepen your spiritual perspective. Consider supporting this process by journaling, meditating, and paying attention to your dreams. Lucky numbers: 8, 9, 16, 18, 21, 24.
Pluto is making a long transit through your sign, to support humanity’s evolution. You may have an opportunity for a few days at midweek to add your voice to this process. Lucky numbers: 10, 12, 19, 28, 30, 42.
This may be a volatile week for you, with ups and downs. Take a deep breath, check your temper, and pack your patience. Be careful when driving and working with equipment. Lucky numbers: 4, 7, 11, 14, 34, 39.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Sagittarius winners with the luckiest number being 7.
Gurgle guide: That rumble in your stomach is often just digestion at work. As your digestive system processes food, liquids, and air, it creates sounds similar to water flowing through pipes. These noises also can happen when you’re hungry.
Tiny timing: “Jiffy” is an actual time unit, not just a casual way to say “soon.” In scientific terms, jiffy refers to a fraction of a second that’s so small you’d miss it if you blinked. Even everyday sayings can have technical roots.
Shark shield: A shark’s skin is covered in tiny, tooth-like scales called denticles, which help it glide smoothly through water, guarding against scrapes, bites, and parasites. This natural armour gives sharks both speed and surprising protection.
Tree roots: Before her music fame, Taylor Swift lived in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania (U.S.), on what once was a Christmas tree farm. Her dad kept it going part time, and one of the singer’s early jobs was picking praying mantis eggs off trees.
Sacred scent: Frankincense has served many purposes throughout history, from temple rituals to home remedies. This fragrant tree resin has been burned in sacred ceremonies, dabbed in perfumes, and rubbed on for skin care.
My dentist calls a gold tooth “a flash in a pan.”
I lift weights on Saturday and Sundays. Monday to Friday are weak days.
Billy: “I just had 10 rides on the carousel.”
Bobby: “You really get around don’t you?”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Hammond. Hammond who? Hammond eggs for breakfast.
What did the bookshelves learn in school? Their upper and lower cases.
I lift weights on Saturday and Sundays. Monday to Friday are weak days.
Billy: “I just had 10 rides on the carousel.”
Bobby: “You really get around don’t you?”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Hammond. Hammond who? Hammond eggs for breakfast.
What did the bookshelves learn in school? Their upper and lower cases.
Trivia Answers: 1. Isthmus 2. True 3. British thermal unit
4. Michelangelo 5. Tor
PDF Versions of our Publication
(just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Print versions are currently available in:
Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Errington, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay & Victoria.
More areas coming soon!
December 1 - 7, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Kindness fund: When an elderly waitress in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (U.S.), shared that back pain and limited income kept her from retiring, a kind customer quietly recorded her story. That video soon went viral, sparking a wave of generosity. A crowdfunding campaign raised over $300,000 (USD) to help support the waitress, named Betty, who had been working to make ends meet, well past the usual age. The funds are now being carefully managed through a trust to protect her benefits and future financial security. What started as a simple $40 tip soon turned into a life-changing gift. It’s a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness can inspire extraordinary and lasting outcomes when people come together.
Fruit fusion: A single mango tree stands as a marvel of patience and skill in the town of Malihabad, India. Decades of grafting, in which branches from different trees are joined to grow on one trunk, have transformed it into a living showcase, now producing over 300 mango varieties. Each grafted branch offers a different fruit, creating a tree like no other. The work began when grower Kalimullah Khan, guided by curiosity and a love of horticulture, started combining varieties on one strong tree. The process continues today, overseen by his son, who ensures the prized tree thrives. Visitors travel from far and wide to witness this botanical wonder, proof that nature, when nurtured by human hands, can surprise us again and again.
Elk passage: A rancher has made a unique deal that helps both his cattle and local elk. A conservation group now covers part of his land lease costs so elk can move freely across his property in Colorado (U.S.) during migration. Without this support, the rancher could face financial peril because the elk eat grass that is meant for livestock. The rancher also lowers his fences in winter to let the elk safely pass. This simple solution is helping restore old migration paths while keeping the ranch running smoothly. It also offers a rare example of how ranching and wildlife can coexist. The rancher says seeing the elk wander through each season is well worth the extra effort involved, and is a reminder of the land’s shared purpose.
Window wisdom: An elementary school in Jacksonville, Illinois (U.S.), is proving that brighter classrooms can brighten minds. By adding dozens of new windows, Eisenhower Elementary swapped dim, outdated spaces for sunlit rooms that help students thrive. Studies show that natural light boosts learning and focus, and the school’s results back that up. Teachers report better moods, improved student participation, and higher engagement across the board. The makeover is part of a broader effort to bring daylight back into school design. With so much success, the team behind this transformation hopes to inspire other schools to do the same. A little sunshine can make all the difference.
“If you approach the mountain in fear, it will look bigger than it appears.” - Tene Edwards
“The expert at anything was once a beginner.” - Helen Hayes
“The expert at anything was once a beginner.” - Helen Hayes
FREE listings for non-profit community events.
Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca
(Deadline Fridays - one week in advance)
Nanaimo Hospital Auxiliary Quilt & Craft Sale: Fri., & Sat., Nov. 28 & 29, 10am-2pm, NRGH Lobby. Assorted quilts, knitted, crocheted & sewn items & a draw for a door prize. All proceeds benefit our hospital.
Old Fashioned Xmas Craft Sale: Nov. 28 & 29, 9am-4pm at the Labieux Seniors Centre, 2465 Labieux Rd. Admission optional: Donation to the Nanaimo Food Bank.
Annual Christmas Bazaar & Silent Auction: Saturday, November 29, 10am-3pm. Nanoose Library Hall, 2489 Nanoose Rd.
Traditional Christmas Tea: Sylvan United Church. 985 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd., Saturday, Nov. 29, 2-4pm. Adult $20/child $10/family $30.
Discover Holiday Magic at the Mistletoe Market at Harbour Quay, (Port Alberni) hosted by the Grove Gallery & the Community Arts Council of the Alberni Valley. Open until December 21. A festive showcase of local artisans, offering unique, handcrafted gifts perfect for everyone on your list. For an extra dose of holiday cheer, join us on Friday, November 29, when the Harbour Quay lights up for the season.
St. Anne & St. Edmund’s Bazaar & Bake Sale: Held Saturday, Nov. 29, 9am- 3pm at 407 Wembley Rd., Parksville.
Support the SPCA: Pick out a can(s) of pre-tinted paints & make a donation to the SPCA (min. $10). Sat., Nov. 29, 10am-2pm Shelly Square, Shelly Rd & Island Hwy.
Traditional Christmas Tea: Sylvan United Church. 985 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd., on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2-4pm. Adult $20/child $10 & family $30.
CatNap Society Craft & Bake Sale: Nov. 29 & 30, 9am–2pm, 2109 Meredith Rd., Nanaimo. Handmade gifts for you & your pets.
Chemainus Saturday Market: A Chemainus United Church Fundraiser at 9814 Willow St., 10am–2pm on Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 13 & 20. Table rentals $25. Text Joyce: 250-533-9392 or joyce.cloakey@gmail.com
Make twice the difference for students this Giving Tuesday! Now until Dec 2, Vancouver Island University Foundation matches gifts up to $1,000! To learn more visit: Giving.viu.ca/giving-Tuesday
Community Carol Festival: Wed., Dec. 3, 7:30pm at St. Andrew’s United, 311 Fitzwilliam, Nanaimo. Music that awakens the Christmas spirit. Admission by donation. Proceeds to St. Andrew’s United & Salvation Army.
Experience Christmases Past with A Child’s Christmas in Wales: harp, song & storytelling in Parksville Museum’s Heritage Church. Dec 4 & 5, 7pm. Tickets $25 at Eventbrite or the museum.
West Coast Winter Wonderland 2025: The cherished tradition, ice skating event, Dec. 4 until Dec. 24, the Alberni Valley Multiplex transforms into a festive haven, offering free ice skating & rentals, generously sponsored by local organizations. Dates & times at: albernivalleytourism.com/alberni-valley-winter-wonderland
Jingle & Mingle: Begin your day of shopping with a delicious brunch on Dec. 6, 9:30am-2pm at St. Peter, Anglican Church, 5800 Church Rd., Duncan.
Christmas Brunch & Bake Sale Fundraiser: Hosted by St Philip By-the-Sea Church for Loaves & Fishes Food Bank on Sat., Dec 6, 10am-1pm. Brunch $18. 7113 Lantzville Rd. Visit www.stphiliplantzville.ca
Last Stop Christmas Shop Market: Saturday, Dec. 6 & Sunday, Dec. 7, 10am-4pm at Coombs Rodeo Grounds, 2601 Alberni Hwy., Coombs. Table rentals: Julia, 250-240-0516.
Bradley Christmas Artisan Market: December 6, 10am to 3pm. Food truck, raffle & entry by donation. 975 Shearme Rd., Coombs.
Chemainus Classical Concerts: Domagoj Ivanovic, violin; Noel McRobbie, piano, Dec. 7, 2:30pm St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $30/$10.Reserved: $25. Phone 250-748-8383.
Nanaimo Concert Band Christmas Concert: ‘A Winter’s Journey’ at Beban Auditorium, Dec, 7, 2:30pm. Admission by donation of non-perishable food or monetary donation to the Salvation Army Kettle Drive.
Calling All Artists! Want to participate in the Cowichan Lake Arts Centre’s Annual Xmas Pop-Up Market on Dec. 10-24? 7 days/week, 10am - 2pm, 10375 Youbou Rd. Info: JenniferC@cowichanlakeartsandculture.org
ECHO Players presents Holy Pantomime, Bratman! Village Theatre, Qualicum Beach, Dec. 11-28, Wed-Sat 7:30pm, Sundays 2pm. Get your tickets at echoplayers.ca or call 250-752-3522.
35th Annual Christmas Bird Count: Sun., Dec. 14 for the Parksville, Errington, Qualicum areas. Count in your yard or join a team in the field for the day. New birders are welcome. For more information, email: susanknoerr@gmail.com
Celebrate the 10th Anniversary Winter Solstice Music Tour! Heart warming songs, stories & harmony supporting Mischa Lelum Youth Shelter. Held Dec. 20th, 3pm & 7pm, at St. Peters Quamichan Anglican Church. Tickets: cariburdett.com/winter-solstice-show
Nanaimo & District Men’s Shed Society: Where men connect & work on community projects & chat. Info: 250-327-2379.
Global Village Nanaimo Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade store located at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Open now until Dec. 24.
Free Skate! Nanaimo Lions Club invites you to Frank Crane Arena every Sunday, 12-1:30pm. Admission & skate rentals are free.
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.
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
1. Cooking food with brief, high, intense heat is called _____.
2. The Golden Mean is a math problem - T/F?
3. What war was fought between Britain and France from 1337 to 1453?
4. In knitting, this kind of stitch has fallen off the needle.
5. What is the usual speed of a seven-inch vinyl record?
2. The Golden Mean is a math problem - T/F?
3. What war was fought between Britain and France from 1337 to 1453?
4. In knitting, this kind of stitch has fallen off the needle.
5. What is the usual speed of a seven-inch vinyl record?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Someone who is experiencing an emotional wound similar to one you previously faced may cross paths with you this week. What wisdom can you share with them now? Lucky numbers: 1, 2, 10, 13, 20, 34.
At the week’s start, you may feel emotionally well grounded. How can you use this potential to advance something positive in your life? Don’t let this opportunity slip away. Lucky numbers: 2, 8, 15, 25, 37, 43.
The middle of the week is a good time to evaluate the endeavours you are working on. Which projects should you bring to completion now? Which should you weed out? Lucky numbers: 6, 11, 12, 20, 24, 37.
The energy this week could give you ambition to succeed. The universe may offer various options to do so. You might need to make an adjustment to ramp up your efforts. Lucky numbers: 4, 24, 26, 32, 35, 37.
The holiday season is fast approaching. At the week’s end, enjoy yourself, but try not to overspend or overindulge in food and drink. All things are best in moderation. Lucky numbers: 3, 8, 11, 15, 18, 21.
Virgos are good at focusing on details necessary to successfully complete endeavours. This ability is heightened at the week’s end. How can you use it in your current projects? Lucky numbers: 16, 19, 21, 22, 23, 45.
The next few weeks may be a good time to examine what you believe in and value. Does your life reflect them? If not, what changes do you need to make? Lucky numbers: 10, 13, 24, 28, 31, 39.
At the beginning of the week, avoid any temptation you might have to dig in your heels. How could you work with others to get past a stalemate in a current situation? Lucky numbers: 5, 7, 16, 25, 26, 39.
You may have an emotional reaction that is out of character for you during the middle of the week. Consider taking a deep breath and waiting a few days before acting. Lucky numbers: 11, 13, 22, 35, 38, 42.
If you run into a stalemate with others midweek, take a step back. Consider initiating a conversation to listen to the needs of others, and how to take them into consideration. Lucky numbers: 15, 17, 25, 28, 31, 39.
Are you happy with your life? The energy early this week encourages you to actively seek out new opportunities that may give you more joy than you currently are experiencing. Lucky numbers: 3, 12, 16, 18, 20, 36.
Pisces can have trouble completing the gritty details necessary to actualize their lofty goals. But at the week’s end, the energy encourages you to focus your mind on the minutiae. Lucky numbers: 5, 18, 21, 23, 25, 48.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Virgo winners with the luckiest number being 21.
Time twist: In the Bering Strait, two islands sit just 3.8 kilometres (2.4 mi.) apart, but are split by a 21-hour time difference. Thanks to the International Date Line, their separate time zones make it tomorrow on one island and today on the other.
Elegant exit: When faced with surgery near the end of his life, Albert Einstein declined, calling it tasteless to delay the inevitable. He requested no shrines or public tributes, just a quiet exit and his ashes scattered in secret.
Lace tips: Those tiny plastic caps at the end of shoelaces have a name. They are called aglets, and they stop the laces from fraying and make threading easier. It’s one of those everyday things you might not suspect had a name.
Rare glare: Green eyes show up in only about 2 percent of people worldwide. Many babies are born with lighter eye colours that deepen over time. But in places like Ireland and Scotland, green eyes are far more common than elsewhere.
Swing science: Golf balls weren’t always dimpled. Then players noticed that rougher surfaces helped the balls travel farther. That simple shift led to a major design change. Dimples help reduce air drag, improving flight and distance.
How do you know when a dog is bossy? It barks orders.
Show me a magician’s book and I’ll show you a spellbinder.
Gardeners love their job. Every day is a bed of roses.
Customer: “I’d like to buy some lean steak.”
Butcher: “Would you like it to lean left or right?”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Jupiter. Jupiter who? Jupiter the fly in my soup?
Show me a magician’s book and I’ll show you a spellbinder.
Gardeners love their job. Every day is a bed of roses.
Customer: “I’d like to buy some lean steak.”
Butcher: “Would you like it to lean left or right?”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Jupiter. Jupiter who? Jupiter the fly in my soup?
Trivia Answers: 1. Searing 2. False, ethics 3. 100 Years' War 4. Dropped
5. 45 rpm
PDF Versions of our Publication
(just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Print versions are currently available in:
Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Errington, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay & Victoria.
More areas coming soon!
November 24 - 30, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Sacred splash: In Heerlen, Netherlands, an empty church is getting new life as a swimming pool. Architects are preserving the historic charm while adding clever features, including an adjustable pool floor that allows the venue to host both swimming and cultural events. Glass walls shield stained glass and artwork from humidity, while church pews have been repurposed as seating and bar tables. The pulpit, once used for sermons, will now offer a perfect vantage point for the lifeguard. Swimmers enter through the original aisles, experiencing the blend of old and new. Designed to honour the building’s past while meeting modern needs, this inspired project shows how thoughtful design can breathe new life into cherished spaces.
Shifting shade: Designer Joe Doucet of New York (U.S.) found himself unsure what colour to paint his house until the answer revealed itself in a mood ring. Using the same chemical idea, he created a paint that flips from white to black depending on the temperature, aiming to help homes stay cooler in the heat and warmer in the cold. The shift responds to outdoor conditions and could cut energy use without wires or moving parts. Still in testing, the early results show indoor temperatures are noticeably affected. The formula can be used with other colours, too, so a blue house would turn light blue in the summer and dark blue in the winter. The idea is to let the weather decide the colour, and hopefully save energy costs at the same time.
Petal parade: A springtime tradition transforms the streets of Noto, Italy, with vast carpets of flowers. During the Noto Infiorata Festival, local artists craft elaborate floral mosaics along Via Nicolaci, each design reflecting a chosen yearly theme. Thousands of petals are carefully arranged by hand, drawing visitors from near and far. What began as a tourism initiative has grown into a celebrated cultural event, filling the Baroque city with colour, scent, and art. Surrounding streets host concerts, markets, and displays of local crafts. For many, strolling through this fleeting gallery of blooms is a chance to experience Noto’s rich blend of beauty and tradition, one petal at a time.
Tunnel trouble: In Nara, Japan, train operators faced an unusual challenge. Turtles were getting stuck on the tracks. To prevent accidents and protect the reptiles, a local railway company teamed up with an aquarium to build a turtle tunnel beneath the rails. Designed for these slow-moving travellers, the passage lets them safely pass under the tracks instead of risking a crossing above. Monthly checks keep things running smoothly, with any rescued turtles taken in for care. While the tunnel has already saved several shelled commuters, it’s just one small fix in a much bigger picture. Other regions are now testing similar wildlife paths. For these turtles at least, there’s finally a safer way to get from one side to the other.
“Freedom is the greatest fruit of self-sufficiency.” - Epicurus
“We see what we believe rather than what we see.” - Alan Watts
“We see what we believe rather than what we see.” - Alan Watts
FREE listings for non-profit community events.
Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca
(Deadline Fridays - one week in advance)
Qualicum Beach Winterfest & Craft Fair: Nov. 21, 22 & 23 at QB Civic Centre, 747 Jones St. Visit: www.winterfestcraftfair.com
Nanaimo Yacht Club Annual Craft Fair: Held on Nov. 22, 10am-4pm, 400 Newcastle Ave. Local artisans, handmade goods & raffles. All proceeds will be donated to Loaves & Fishes Community Food Bank.
27th Annual Nanaimo Artwalk: Featuring over 50 artists in 20 venues & free hop on/hop off shuttle service. Sat., Nov. 22, 10am-4pm & Sun., Nov. 23, 12-4pm, downtown Nanaimo and Old City Quarter. For info,. visit: NanaimoArtsCouncil.ca
Cowichan Lake Arts & Culture Society presents Nerikomi Jewelry
Nov 23, 11am-3pm, Cowichan Lake Arts Centre. Rosemary Danaher will
guide you in making jewelry using coloured porcelain clay. Register
www.cowichanlakeartsandculture.org
Play Euchre at 1480 Huntley Rd., Parksville, Nov. 25, Dec. 2 & Dec. 9, 6pm. New partner for each game. No partner needed.
Flying Silk Marionette Puppetry presents a free family folktale about a Foolish King, a Wise Horse & a Princess, Thurs., Nov. 27, 3:30-4:30 at the Cowichan Library, 2687 James St, Duncan Ages 1-91 will enjoy this story.
Attention Seniors! If you enjoy dancing to old time country/rock ‘n roll music, join us Fri., Nov. 28, 1-3:30pm at the Bradley Centre, 975 Shearme Rd, Coombs. Info: Angie 250-738 -1661 or angievh@telus.net
Nanaimo Hospital Auxiliary Quilt & Craft Sale: Fri., & Sat., Nov. 28 & 29, 10am-2pm, NRGH Lobby. Assorted quilts, knitted, crocheted & sewn items & a draw for a door prize. All proceeds benefit our hospital.
Old Fashioned Xmas Craft Sale: Nov. 28 & 29, 9am-4pm at the Labieux Seniors Centre, 2465 Labieux Rd. Admission optional: Donation to the Nanaimo Food Bank.
Annual Christmas Bazaar & Silent Auction: Saturday, November 29, 10am-3pm. Nanoose Library Hall, 2489 Nanoose Rd.
Discover Holiday Magic at the Mistletoe Market at Harbour Quay, (Port Alberni) hosted by the Grove Gallery & the Community Arts Council of the Alberni Valley. Open until December 21. A festive showcase of local artisans, offering unique, handcrafted gifts perfect for everyone on your list. For an extra dose of holiday cheer, join us on Friday, November 29, when the Harbour Quay lights up for the season.
St. Anne & St. Edmund’s Bazaar & Bake Sale: Held Saturday, Nov. 29, 9am- 3pm at 407 Wembley Rd., Parksville.
Support the SPCA: Pick out a can(s) of pre-tinted paints & make a donation to the SPCA (min. $10). Sat., Nov. 29, 10am-2pm Shelly Square, Shelly Rd & Island Hwy.
Traditional Christmas Tea: Sylvan United Church. 985 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd., on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2-4pm. Adult $20/child $10 & family $30.
CatNap Society Craft & Bake Sale: Nov. 29 & 30, 9am–2pm, 2109 Meredith Rd., Nanaimo. Handmade gifts for you & your pets.
Chemainus Saturday Market: A Chemainus United Church Fundraiser at 9814 Willow St., 10am–2pm on Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 13 & 20. Table rentals $25. Text Joyce: 250-533-9392 or joyce.cloakey@gmail.com
Make twice the difference for students this Giving Tuesday! Now until Dec 2, Vancouver Island University Foundation matches gifts up to $1,000! To learn more visit: Giving.viu.ca/giving-Tuesday
Community Carol Festival: Wed., Dec. 3, 7:30pm at St. Andrew’s United, 311 Fitzwilliam, Nanaimo. Music that awakens the Christmas spirit. Admission by donation. Proceeds to St. Andrew’s United & Salvation Army.
Experience Christmases Past with A Child’s Christmas in Wales: harp, song & storytelling in Parksville Museum’s Heritage Church. Dec 4 & 5, 7pm. Tickets $25 at Eventbrite or the museum.
Last Stop Christmas Shop Market: Saturday, Dec. 6 & Sunday, Dec. 7, 10am-4pm at Coombs Rodeo Grounds, 2601 Alberni Hwy., Coombs. Table rentals: Julia, 250-240-0516.
Chemainus Classical Concerts: Domagoj Ivanovic, violin; Noel McRobbie, piano, Dec. 7, 2:30pm St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $30/$10.Reserved: $25. Phone 250-748-8383.
Calling All Artists! Want to participate in the Cowichan Lake Arts Centre’s Annual Xmas Pop-Up Market on Dec. 10-24? 7 days/week, 10am - 2pm, 10375 Youbou Rd. Info: JenniferC@cowichanlakeartsandculture.org
Nanaimo & District Men’s Shed Society: Where men connect & work on community projects & chat. Info: 250-327-2379.
Global Village Nanaimo Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade store located at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Open now until Dec. 24.
Free Skate! Nanaimo Lions Club invites you to Frank Crane Arena every Sunday, 12-1:30pm. Admission & skate rentals are free.
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.
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
1. What is planet Mars' nickname?
2. Featured in an Agatha Christie novel, this train started running in 1883.
3. What name is given to the science of sound?
4. Mushrooms are more closely related to animals than to plants - T/F?
5. Several Mesoamerican peoples used chocolate as what?
2. Featured in an Agatha Christie novel, this train started running in 1883.
3. What name is given to the science of sound?
4. Mushrooms are more closely related to animals than to plants - T/F?
5. Several Mesoamerican peoples used chocolate as what?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
It would be wise to monitor any angry feelings you have this week. Consider if they have been triggered by a return to your emotions surrounding an old wound. Lucky numbers: 9, 13, 14, 19, 22, 28.
Are you feeling a strong urgency to address or complete something right now? It may be helpful to take a deep breath and think through the situation before you act. Lucky numbers: 7, 9, 15, 23, 35, 38.
For the next month, you may encounter an obstacle in a relationship. Seek a compromise that you both can live with, going forward. Waiting may not be helpful for the situation. Lucky numbers: 12, 20, 30, 37, 39, 42.
This may be a good time to integrate your values and beliefs into your daily routine. It may require a review of where you stand to decide how to move ahead. Lucky numbers: 1, 3, 9, 18, 40, 46.
Early in the week, your head and heart may be in opposition. If you can’t reconcile the two, it may be best to wait a few days before taking any action. Lucky numbers: 6, 15, 22, 25, 37, 43.
In the past two-plus years, you may have experienced periods of disruption to your normally grounded approach. This dynamic might begin to improve in the next few months. Lucky numbers: 13, 21, 30, 31, 34, 45.
You may find yourself being aggressive at the week’s end. Ask yourself if this feeling is justified, or if you should take a breath and wait a few days before acting. Lucky numbers: 2, 10, 17, 20, 28, 44.
For the last few weeks, you may have encountered difficulties in communicating. This dynamic might begin to shift at the week’s end. Try to focus on common ground. Lucky numbers: 11, 12, 15, 16, 22, 48.
Sagittarians often are free spirits and, for the next month, this desire may be strong for you. Explore new possibilities, but consider waiting a bit before implementing them. Lucky numbers: 4, 12, 20, 30, 35, 36.
Capricorns generally don’t spend much time considering their values, but this may be a good time for you to do so. Look for new opportunities that are more in alignment for you. Lucky numbers: 5, 6, 15, 17, 24, 28.
The last month may have had various mishaps with equipment, communications, travel, and so forth. At the week’s end, this situation could begin to shift, so try to be patient. Lucky numbers: 3, 21, 22, 24, 33, 42.
For more than two years, Saturn has been in Pisces and stays until February. Hopefully, it has helped you develop a more grounded approach. You have a last chance now. Lucky numbers: 18, 21, 30, 35, 38, 45.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Sagittarius winners with the luckiest number being 12.
Strings surprise: Before becoming a rap star, J. Cole spent years mastering the violin. By high school, he was first chair in the orchestra, performing familiar movie themes. That early passion for music carried into his later career.
Sea mystery: In the North Atlantic Ocean, the Sargasso Sea doesn’t touch any land. Instead, it’s defined by powerful ocean currents that form a natural boundary. Many sea creatures, including eels and turtles, travel through it during their long migrations.
Cosmic crop: Potatoes became the first vegetable grown in space. Thanks to a team-up between NASA and researchers in Wisconsin (U.S.), special “Quantum Tubers” were crafted using a mix of farming know-how and space science.
Dad delivery: Instead of moms, male seahorses are the ones who carry and birth their young. Their pouch works much like a uterus, nourishing the babies inside. It’s a rare twist in nature’s approach to parenting.
Lucky seven: Canadian and U.S. phone numbers weren’t always seven digits long. Engineers found that the length offered enough combinations to expand the system, while still being short enough for people to remember, balancing function and memory.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Achoo. Achoo who? Achoo my gum every day.
Where do owls learn the best? At night school.
Sign in a bank window: “Come in and see if you are loan-ly.”
I have an inferiority complex, but it’s not a very good one.
I suffered for months with ringing in my ears, then I got an unlisted ear.
Where do owls learn the best? At night school.
Sign in a bank window: “Come in and see if you are loan-ly.”
I have an inferiority complex, but it’s not a very good one.
I suffered for months with ringing in my ears, then I got an unlisted ear.
Trivia Answers: 1. The Red Planet 2. Orient Express 3. Acoustics 4. True 5. Currency
PDF Versions of our Publication
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Print versions are currently available in:
Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Errington, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay & Victoria.
More areas coming soon!
November 17 - 23, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Animal alternative: A shimmering green parrot suddenly appears in the ring, followed by an elephant family thundering past an astonished crowd, but none of it is real. Germany’s Roncalli Circus replaced live animals with holograms, using high-resolution projections and mesh screens to create vivid illusions. The idea emerged from the growing use of holographic performances in entertainment, where digital recreations often take centre stage. Mounting concerns about animal welfare, along with the challenge of housing creatures while on tour, led the circus to explore this alternative. Instead of asking what is missing, this circus asks what is possible. Some guests leave smiling, unsure what was more magical: the circus or what it chose to leave behind.
Sacred climb: Mount Tai in Tai’an, China, is revered as a bridge between earth and sky, and has drawn pilgrims and poets for centuries. Though not among China’s tallest peaks, the path to its summit demands spirit, winding more than 6,000 stone steps upward. Hikers can start at the Red Gate, passing incense-filled temples and ancient stone tables while climbing through forests. Many pause at midway stations or take the cable car, but the most determined can follow in the steps of emperors to reach the peak. Jade Emperor Peak rewards sunrise seekers with sweeping views, often shared with hundreds gathered at the top. Mount Tai’s towering presence inspires the feeling that the world, from above, looks very small.
Border puzzle: In the town of Baarle, where Belgium and the Netherlands meet, the border isn’t a straight line - it’s a maze. Streets, houses, and even buildings are split between the two countries, with white crosses on the ground showing where one ends and the other begins. Some people sleep in one country and cook breakfast in the other. The confusion began long ago, when land was divided between noble families, and it took centuries to settle the details. Locals deal with mixed rules, double services, and two of almost everything. Visitors come to see the odd layout, but for those who live here, it’s about working together and solving everyday problems across a dotted line.
Laugh line: A vintage pay phone with a twist is bringing back dial tones and punchlines in Washington, D.C. (U.S.). Instead of just making calls, this sidewalk fixture also tells knock-knock jokes, shares fun facts, and delivers cheerful thoughts, all triggered by the press of a button. Rewired and reimagined by a local teacher, the phone uses a small computer and home wi-fi to run its lighthearted programming and keep things fresh. Kids walking by often stop to giggle or to surprise their parents with an unexpected call. While smartphones dominate daily life, this throwback gadget offers a reminder that simple ideas can still connect people. It’s not just nostalgia—it’s community, with a dial tone.
“My goal is to build a life I don’t need a vacation from.” - Rob Hill Sr.
“The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain!”
- Dolly Parton
FREE listings for non-profit community events.
Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca
(Deadline Fridays - one week in advance)
CatNapSociety Annual Online Fundraising Auction, Nov 14-23, 2025. Items for you and your pets. Visit www.catnapsociety.com for information and Galabid auction link.
Christmas Angels Craft Fair: Nov 14. 4-8pm, Nov. 15, 9:30-3:30pm, 1356 Cranberry Ave. www.volunteernanaimo.ca
Christmas in the Country Craft Fair: Sat Nov 15th from 10-4pm at the Cherry Creek Community Hall, Port Alberni. Dynamic local vendors, home cooking concession, 50/50, and fun. Season’s Greetings.
Build Your Own Classic Rustic Willow Bent Armchair: Nov. 15, 9am- 6pm, Cowichan Lake Arts Centre, 10375 Youbou Rd. Pre-register: www.cowichanlakeartsandculture.org/upcomingworkshops
Lighthouse Community Centre Market: Nov. 15, 10am-4pm & Nov. 16, 10am-3pm. Free parking & admission, door prizes & a food truck on site. 240 Lions Way, QB.
Art Sale: Presented by St. Joseph’s Artist Collective on Sat., Nov. 15 & Sun., Nov. 16, 12-8pm at 9735 Elm St., Chemainus.
Jonanco Hobby Workshop Christmas Craft Market: Sat., Nov. 15 & Sun., Nov. 16, 10am-3pm. Handcrafted items, woodworking, baking. 2745 White Rapids Rd., Nanaimo.
Meet the Tradesmen Outreach Team! Help us assemble our wellness kits & make connections on Sunday, Nov. 16, 1pm at 19 Commercial St. For info, visit: TradesmenOutreach.com
Nanaimo Family History Society Meeting: Nov. 17, 7-9pm. Glenn Wright presents ‘Researching Canada’s War Dead’ via Zoom only. More info at: nanaimofamilyhistory.ca
Cowichan Folk Guild fundraiser: Beef & Bevy Night at Cobblestone Pub, 3566 Holland Ave., Cobble Hill. Held Nov. 17, 5:30- 8:30pm. $40. More details: info: www.islandsfolkfestival.ca or 250-748-3975.
Nanaimo Quilters’ Guild Meeting: Wed., Nov. 19, 1:30 & 6:30pm, Nanaimo Curling Club, 106 Wall St.
SAVE Open Mic Night! At CHRCO Hall, 2601 Alberni Hwy., (Coombs Rodeo Grounds) Friday, Nov. 21, 7-9pm. $5 entry fee. Show your support or step on stage & perform. Free for musicians & students. All ages dry event. Drinks & snacks available. Info: www.chrco.org
Qualicum Beach Winterfest & Craft Fair: Nov. 21, 22 & 23 at QB Civic Centre, 747 Jones St. Visit: www.winterfestcraftfair.com
Nanaimo Yacht Club Annual Craft Fair: Held on Nov. 22, 10am-4pm, 400 Newcastle Ave. Local artisans, handmade goods & raffles. All proceeds will be donated to Loaves & Fishes Community Food Bank.
27th Annual Nanaimo Artwalk: Featuring over 50 artists in 20 venues & free hop on/hop off shuttle service. Sat., Nov. 22, 10am-4pm & Sun., Nov. 23, 12-4pm, downtown Nanaimo and Old City Quarter. For info,. visit: NanaimoArtsCouncil.ca
Cowichan Lake Arts & Culture Society presents Nerikomi Jewelry
Nov 23, 11am-3pm, Cowichan Lake Arts Centre. Rosemary Danaher will
guide you in making jewelry using coloured porcelain clay. Register
www.cowichanlakeartsandculture.org
Attention Seniors! If you enjoy dancing to old time country/rock ‘n roll music, join us Fri., Nov. 28, 1-3:30pm at the Bradley Centre, 975 Shearme Rd, Coombs. Info: Angie 250-738 - 1661 or angievh@telus.net
Annual Christmas Bazaar & Silent Auction: Saturday, November 29, 10am-3pm. Nanoose Library Hall, 2489 Nanoose Rd.
Chemainus Saturday Market: A Chemainus United Church Fundraiser at 9814 Willow St., 10am–2pm on Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 13 & 20. Table rentals $25. Text Joyce: 250-533-9392 or joyce.cloakey@gmail.com
Last Stop Christmas Shop Market: Saturday, Dec. 6 & Sunday, Dec. 7, 10am-4pm at Coombs Rodeo Grounds, 2601 Alberni Hwy., Coombs. Table rentals: Julia, 250-240-0516.
Calling All Artists! Want to participate in the Cowichan Lake Arts Centre’s Annual Xmas Pop-Up Market on Dec. 10-24? 7 days/week, 10am - 2pm, 10375 Youbou Rd. Info: JenniferC@cowichanlakeartsandculture.org
Nanaimo & District Men’s Shed Society: Where men connect & work on community projects & chat. Info: 250-327-2379.
Global Village Nanaimo Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade store located at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Open now until Dec. 24.
Free Skate! Nanaimo Lions Club invites you to Frank Crane Arena every Sunday, 12-1:30pm. Admission & skate rentals are free.
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.
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
1. Mancala is a board game that originated on this continent.
2. What type of tree produces acorns?
3. Is a group of flamingos called a flock, flutter, or flamboyance?
4. This is the only mammal capable of true flight.
5. What part of the body does a snake use to smell?
2. What type of tree produces acorns?
3. Is a group of flamingos called a flock, flutter, or flamboyance?
4. This is the only mammal capable of true flight.
5. What part of the body does a snake use to smell?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Last week you may have found important information emerging from your unconscious. This pattern could continue. Again, consider if you need to adjust your view. Lucky numbers: 10, 11, 25, 35, 42, 43.
You may be feeling irritated, with a desire to break free of restrictions. This dynamic needs to be honoured, but be sure to give yourself time to create a good plan for change. Lucky numbers: 4, 5, 6, 17, 28, 37.
Six months have passed since your birthday. Did you set a new set of goals then? If you did, now is a good time to evaluate your progress and make changes as needed. Lucky numbers: 9, 17, 27, 36, 44, 45.
You may have a number of opportunities now. But if you must close the deal in the next few weeks, double check the details and verify that everyone is in agreement. Lucky numbers: 7, 14, 18, 24, 33, 40.
Over the next month, you may receive an energy boost that could help you accomplish your objectives. But be sure that the result is a win-win for all involved. Lucky numbers: 14, 25, 28, 32, 42, 45.
Your normally disciplined manner may feel disrupted over the next month. Rather than fighting against it, could you be more flexible, even if it feels uncomfortable? Lucky numbers: 8, 16, 22, 27, 34, 36.
Libras can sometimes sweep issues under the rug for the sake of keeping the peace. However, early this week may be time for truth telling in service to positive change. Lucky numbers: 6, 16, 22, 28, 33, 46.
There is a great wave of energy now, but your ability to harness it over time could be deceptive. You might want to resist the temptation to take action right now. Lucky numbers: 2, 17, 20, 32, 38, 42.
Your birthday month is a good time to review what you have accomplished in the last year. What worked and what didn’t? What new goals do you want to set? Lucky numbers: 3, 9, 17, 40, 42, 46.
The energy at the end of the week is well grounded. How do you want to apply it? You might be able to use it to advance a project that you need to complete. Lucky numbers: 13, 17, 25, 32, 40, 48.
You may have an opportunity to dig deep into your psyche and unearth something needing release. Take advantage of it to avoid a more difficult transformation later. Lucky numbers: 5, 8, 23, 24, 32, 48.
The feeling of urgency you may have had several weeks ago may return now. Take a deep breath and focus on what you realistically can accomplish. Then get to work. Lucky numbers: 1, 6, 7, 13, 18, 30.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Leo winners with the luckiest number being 25.
Star catcher: Built into a natural hollow, China’s 500-meter (1,640-ft.) radio telescope is too massive to move. Its giant metal dish gathers signals from deep space, helping scientists discover distant stars, and maybe even hints of life beyond our planet.
Backing band: The music group best known for “Africa” didn’t just top charts on their own. They also backed Michael Jackson on Thriller. Members of Toto contributed to much of the iconic album, lending their musicianship to tracks like “Beat It” and “Human Nature.”
Language layers: In Papua New Guinea, more than 800 languages are spoken across its rugged mountains and scattered islands. Isolated villages have developed their own ways of speaking over time, making this Pacific nation the most linguistically diverse on the planet.
Stage glow: The phrase “in the limelight” comes from a bright stage light once made by heating quicklime, a type of calcium compound. It lit up performers long before electric bulbs took over. The expression still shines today.
Bug countdown: Some of the large, loud insects called cicadas spend 17 years underground before surfacing all at once. During that stretch, they stay busy as nymphs, feeding on tree roots. When the soil warms to the right temperature, they rise up to sing and mate.
A monster with a drip dry suit is called a wash-and-were-wolf.
Patient: “I’m here for my liver.” Doctor: “Sorry, I don’t have it.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Otter. Otter who? You otter open the door and let me in.
What do you need to know to be an auctioneer? Lots.
We were going to tell you a swimming joke, but it was too watered down.
Patient: “I’m here for my liver.” Doctor: “Sorry, I don’t have it.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Otter. Otter who? You otter open the door and let me in.
What do you need to know to be an auctioneer? Lots.
We were going to tell you a swimming joke, but it was too watered down.
Trivia Answers: 1. Africa 2. Oak 3. Flamboyance 4. Bats 5. Tongue
PDF Versions of our Publication
(just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Print versions are currently available in:
Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Errington, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay & Victoria.
More areas coming soon!
November 10 - 16, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Sandscape dream: A wide park of pale-coloured sand dunes hides countless clear pools of freshwater in a remote corner of Maranhão, Brazil. These sky-like lagoons appear in the rainy season, forming between tall, wind-shaped hills of sand. Unlike a desert, the area receives steady rainfall, creating a strange mix of dry sand and still water. Small villages nestled in the dunes offer calm spots for quiet walks or gentle river rides through mangroves and palm trees. Many visitors walk barefoot over soft dunes or explore on 4x4’s, reaching pools far from the busy areas. From above, the scene looks like wrinkled bedsheets dotted with blue. On the ground, the quiet makes the area feel like a peaceful, hidden world.
Receipt rebellion: By giving its food names like “Basic Steel Stapler” and “Wireless Mouse,” instead of the burgers and fries that they really were, a burger restaurant in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, grabbed attention. The gimmick was part of a tongue-in-cheek campaign meant to joke about slipping meals onto work expense reports. People ordering lunch could pretend they were expensing office supplies while really getting a burger combo. Though clearly not meant to fool accountants, the idea quickly went viral through online videos. The restaurant later clarified it was all in good fun, not a real scheme. Even so, it sparked lively debate over whether the joke was harmless or a little too close to crossing the line.
Flood fortress: In Tokyo, Japan, a massive underground structure quietly protects the city from increasingly intense rainfall and flooding. Nicknamed “The Cathedral” for its towering stone pillars and hushed atmosphere, the chamber sits beneath a network of tunnels built to hold and redirect floodwater. Overflow from rivers is channelled underground before being safely pumped out to sea. The system has saved homes and prevented widespread damage in the region. Its cool, misty interior resembles a sacred space and has even become a destination for curious visitors. Engineers are now expanding the system further, which is proof that Tokyo is preparing for what’s coming, not waiting for it.
Pocket win: A young girl in Ipswich, England, sparked change after noticing her school trousers had fake pockets, while the boys’ version had real ones. Frustrated by the lack of function, she wrote to a major clothing retailer and started a petition with dozens of signatures from classmates. Though the company didn’t officially credit her efforts, new girls’ trousers now include stitched bows and proper pockets. The company later responded by saying their designs focus on comfort and durability, without directly explaining the update. For the girl who raised her voice, the issue was simple: pockets matter to everyone. Whether or not her letter led to the shift, the shelves now speak for themselves.
“Are not flowers the stars of the earth?” - Clara Lucas Balfour
“We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.” - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
“We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.” - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
FREE listings for non-profit community events.
Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca
(Deadline Fridays - one week in advance)
Calling All Artists! Want to participate in the Cowichan Lake Arts Centre’s Annual Xmas Pop-Up Market on Dec. 10-24? 7 days/week, 10am - 2pm, 10375 Youbou Rd. Info: JenniferC@cowichanlakeartsandculture.org
Cowichan Lake Arts & Culture Society presents Nerikomi Jewelry Nov 23, 11am-3pm, Cowichan Lake Arts Centre. Rosemary Danaher will guide you in making jewelry using coloured porcelain clay. Register www.cowichanlakeartsandculture.org
Once Upon a Craft Fair: Nanaimo’s largest craft fair held at Beban Park Social Centre, Fri., Nov. 7, 12-7pm; Sat., Nov. 8, 10am-5pm; Sun., Nov. 9, 10am-4pm. Adults $5, under 12, free.
Nanaimo Pottery Co-op Fall Show & Sale: Country Club Centre, Fri., Nov. 7, 10am-8pm & Sat., Nov. 8, 10am-6 pm.
Christmas in the Valley Craft Fair: Held November 7-9, at the Alberni Athletic Hall. Nov. 7, 3-7pm; Nov. 8, 10am-4pm; Nov.9, 10am-3pm. A variety of local artisans selling handmade goods. The fair offers a wonderful opportunity to shop for unique Christmas gifts.
Saltair Winter Market: Sat., Nov. 8, 10am-3pm, 3850 S Oyster School Rd., Ladysmith. Pottery, jewelery, woodwork, fabric arts & more.
Crofton Art Group Show & Sale: Held November 8, 10am-4pm at the Crofton Seniors Centre, 1507 Joan Ave (close to the ferry terminal).
United Churches Traveling Craft Fairs: Nov. 8, 11am-3pm, St. Andrews, 315 Fitzwilliam; Nov. 15, 11am-3pm, Trinity, 6011 Doumont & Nov. 22, 11am-3pm, 1644 Cedar. 250- 713-5549
St. Andrew’s 3rd Annual Christmas Market: Sat., Nov. 8, 11am-3pm. Local handmade crafts, plants, jam, baking & more. 315 Fitzwilliam, Nanaimo.
Remembering Heroes ~ A Salute to the Fallen: Presented by Oceanside Music, with special appearances by The Andrew Sisters, The Mount Arrowsmith Pipe Band on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2:30pm at Knox United, 345 Pym. Tickets avail online at: www.oceanside-music.ca
Tour the Historic Cemetery while learning about the pioneers who settled the Cowichan Valley, on Nov. 11, 2pm, St. Peter’s Anglican Cemetery, 5800 Church Rd, North Cowichan.
Port Alberni Will Observe Remembrance Day on Tuesday, November 11, with a ceremony at the Glenwood Centre, Port Alberni, starting at 10:15am. Additional services will follow at the Field of Honour in Greenwood Cemetery & the Harbour Quay Cenotaph. The events are organized by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 293.
Mid Island Floral Art Club Meeting: Floral Table Runners, Nov. 13, 2pm at St Stephen’s Church Hall, 150 Village Way, QB. Guests $6. Info: mifaclub2000@gmail.com or Joanne 250-757-8969.
Qualicum Beach Garden Club Meeting: Nov. 13, 7:30pm. A fun festive meeting & guests are welcome. 747 Jones Ave., QB.
CatNapSociety Annual Online Fundraising Auction, Nov 14-23, 2025. Items for you and your pets. Visit www.catnapsociety.com for information and Galabid auction link.
Christmas Angels Craft Fair: Nov 14. 4-8pm, Nov. 15, 9:30-3:30pm, 1356 Cranberry Ave. www.volunteernanaimo.ca
Christmas in the Country Craft Fair: Sat Nov 15th from 10-4pm at the Cherry Creek Community Hall, Port Alberni. Dynamic local vendors, home cooking concession, 50/50, and fun. Season’s Greetings.
Lighthouse Community Centre Market: Nov. 15, 10am-4pm & Nov. 16, 10am-3pm. Free parking & admission, door prizes & a food truck on site. 240 Lions Way, QB.
Art Sale: Presented by St. Joseph’s Artist Collective on Sat., Nov. 15 & Sun., Nov. 16, 12-8pm at 9735 Elm St., Chemainus.
Jonanco Hobby Workshop Christmas Craft Market: Sat., Nov. 15 & Sun., Nov. 16, 10am-3pm. Handcrafted items, woodworking, baking. 2745 White Rapids Rd., Nanaimo.
Cowichan Folk Guild fundraiser: Beef & Bevy Night at Cobblestone Pub, 3566 Holland Ave., Cobble Hill. Held Nov. 17, 5:30- 8:30pm. $40. More details: info: www.islandsfolkfestival.ca or 250-748-3975.
Qualicum Beach Winterfest & Craft Fair: Nov. 21, 22 & 23 at QB Civic Centre, 747 Jones St. Visit: www.winterfestcraftfair.com
Nanaimo Yacht Club Annual Craft Fair: Held on Nov. 22, 10am-4pm, 400 Newcastle Ave. Local artisans, handmade goods & raffles. All proceeds will be donated to Loaves & Fishes Community Food Bank.
Cowichan Lake Arts & Culture Society presents Nerikomi Jewelry Nov 23, 11am-3pm, Cowichan Lake Arts Centre. Rosemary Danaher will guide you in making jewelry using coloured porcelain clay. Register www.cowichanlakeartsandculture.org
Annual Christmas Bazaar & Silent Auction: Saturday, November 29, 10am-3pm. Nanoose Library Hall, 2489 Nanoose Rd.
Chemainus Saturday Market: A Chemainus United Church Fundraiser at 9814 Willow St., 10am–2pm on Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 13 & 20. Table rentals $25. Text Joyce: 250-533-9392 or joyce.cloakey@gmail.com
Nanaimo & District Men’s Shed Society: Where men connect & work on community projects & chat. Info: 250-327-2379.
Global Village Nanaimo Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade store located at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Open now until Dec. 24.
Free Skate! Nanaimo Lions Club invites you to Frank Crane Arena every Sunday, 12-1:30pm. Admission & skate rentals are free.
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.
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
1. Which 1980s British band was nicknamed the Fab Five?
2. What is the capital of Jamaica?
3. The tango is a famous dance that originated in this country.
4. The substance with the chemical formula “NaCl” is commonly known as this.
5. This popular breakfast cereal has a leprechaun as its mascot.
2. What is the capital of Jamaica?
3. The tango is a famous dance that originated in this country.
4. The substance with the chemical formula “NaCl” is commonly known as this.
5. This popular breakfast cereal has a leprechaun as its mascot.
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Action is a key for Aries, but a situation now calls for contemplation instead. Consider adjusting your view based on the insights emerging from your unconscious. Lucky numbers: 3, 4, 12, 16, 35, 46.
Taurus-born often seek the “tried and true” path. For the next few months, you may have an opportunity to explore this motivation to see if it is still satisfactory. Lucky numbers: 10, 15, 17, 19, 38, 48.
Choose your words with others carefully for the next few weeks. Be sure your devices are backed up and your vehicle is in good working order. Expect travel delays. Lucky numbers: 11, 14, 21, 33, 34, 42.
For the next few months, you may find that matters resurfacing that you thought you were past. The issue may involve home or family. It is time for a better solution. Lucky numbers: 1, 15, 18, 32, 37, 45.
The energy early in the week may give you the courage of your convictions. This might be a good time to step into something new and to bring others along. Lucky numbers: 8, 14, 19, 24, 40, 45.
The midweek energy can help you deal with the myriad details of your project. Dig in and work through the minutia in order to bring it to completion now. Lucky numbers: 2, 13, 16, 24, 29, 37.
Your head and heart may be in sync at midweek. Select the choice that is in your best interests while not hurting others. It is OK to choose yourself first. Lucky numbers: 7, 18, 21, 23, 24, 25.
You may have an opportunity now to see into the dark and review a situation from the past. You could reach an understanding of how to more deeply relate with others. Lucky numbers: 1, 6, 8, 34, 37, 47.
Are you dealing again with a past issue? You may be tempted to battle your way out of it. Might it perhaps be better to wait and then reconsider the situation? Lucky numbers: 9, 13, 19, 21, 42, 45.
For the next few months, you may be caught between a desire to move forward or to maintain the status quo. Weigh the pros and cons, but consider postponing action. Lucky numbers: 5, 21, 23, 28, 33, 36.
Early in the week, your will may be in opposition to that of others. Try to work toward a compromise, or perhaps take a step back for a few days and wait. Lucky numbers: 4, 13, 14, 22, 34, 35.
Your mind and emotions may be at odds at midweek. Pisces tend to have their heads in the clouds, but you could be encouraged now to ground yourself to the Earth. Lucky numbers: 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 33.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favor Virgo winners with the luckiest number being 37.
Alias upgrade: Born Peter Gene Hernandez, singer Bruno Mars got his nickname “Bruno” from his dad, who thought he resembled wrestler Bruno Sammartino. He later added “Mars” to create a stage name that sounded unique and cosmic.
Sky shimmer: The northern and southern lights glow when solar particles crash into Earth’s atmosphere, stirring up oxygen and nitrogen. These charged collisions create waves of green, red, and purple light, turning the sky into a silent show.
Synthetic spin: Polyester was born from a chemical mix of acid and alcohol, creating fibres strong enough for clothing and packaging. Later branded under names like Dacron and Mylar, this lab-made material quickly became a staple in daily life.
Name marathon: The official name of Bangkok, Thailand, is actually a record-breaking string of 21 words, making it the longest place name in the world. The full name is rarely used in daily life, and most people stick to the much shorter and simpler name, Bangkok.
Desert duty: Camels can walk roughly 20 miles (32 km) a day while hauling up to 200 pounds (90 kg). They also provide milk, meat, and useful materials, earning them the nickname “ships of the desert.”
How did the boat do in school? It sailed through.
Trees get sleepy too. They occasionally need a nap, forest.
When the coach called in a new pitcher, it was quite a relief!
Linda: “Are you unattached?”
John: “No, I’m put together sloppily.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Claire. Claire who? Claire the way, I’m coming through.
Trees get sleepy too. They occasionally need a nap, forest.
When the coach called in a new pitcher, it was quite a relief!
Linda: “Are you unattached?”
John: “No, I’m put together sloppily.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Claire. Claire who? Claire the way, I’m coming through.
Trivia Answers: 1. Duran Duran 2. Kingston 3. Argentina 4. Salt
5. Lucky Charms
PDF Versions of our Publication
(just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Print versions are currently available in:
Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Errington, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay & Victoria.
More areas coming soon!
November 3 - 9, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Unlikely heroes: As a town facing an aging population and shrinking schools, Kawara, Japan, has introduced a homemade trading card game that is sparking new energy. Its stars are the unlikeliest of figures: middle-aged men from the community. To play, the children collect and battle with cards that feature local uncles and town workers, each of whom is scored on real-life skills like cooking, driving, or repair. The cards have drawn visitors from abroad and stirred friendly rivalries among the adults themselves. Designed to bridge generations, the innovative game runs at schools, shops, and community centres. It’s a playful way to help bridge the town’s generation gap.
Virus blocker: Scientists have tested a chewing gum that may help slow the spread of influenza and other viruses. Made with a bean-based powder that naturally traps virus particles, the gum was designed to work in the mouth, where transmission often begins. Researchers have seen strong results, with small amounts of the formula greatly reducing virus levels in controlled settings. Unlike sprays or pills, this gum releases an antiviral protein while being chewed, making it simple and practical to use. It also appears stable enough for long-term storage. Human trials are the next step in testing its real world potential. For something so ordinary, this gum could quietly shift how we prevent everyday illness.
Melody highway: In Heves County, Hungary, a stretch of roadway now plays music under your wheels. Drivers travelling between Hatvan and Lörinci can hear a melody from a Hungarian rock song if they maintain a steady speed. The musical effect comes from grooves cut into the pavement, transforming a routine drive into a brief concert. Local leaders see it as both a unique attraction and a nod to years of investment in the area’s transportation links. Previous musical road segments exist elsewhere in the country, each playing a different regional tune. This newest installation, though brief, adds flair to a once-overlooked route. It’s the kind of roadside surprise you don’t see - or hear - every day.
Fox sanctuary: In the U.S. state of Florida, a group of rescued foxes is living out their days in peace thanks to Pawsitive Beginnings, a non-profit that steps in when animals can’t return to the wild. These foxes, bred for the fur trade, are too far removed from their wild roots to survive on their own. Their colouring, instincts, and legal status all prevent reintroduction. Instead, they’ve found a home where safety and care come first, alongside an unexpected role in therapy. Through animal-assisted sessions, the foxes’ stories are shared with people recovering from trauma. With expansion plans underway, the team hopes to perform upgrades and expand to more communities. For these foxes, it’s not just a second chance, but a whole new purpose.
“If your compassion does not include yourself it is not complete.” - Jack Kornfield
“You must not be afraid of playing wrong notes. Just forget it, play it wrong! But play!” - Vladimir Horowitz
“You must not be afraid of playing wrong notes. Just forget it, play it wrong! But play!” - Vladimir Horowitz
FREE listings for non-profit community events.
Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca
(Deadline Fridays - one week in advance)
Calling All Artists! Want to participate in the Cowichan Lake Arts Centre’s Annual Xmas Pop-Up Market on Dec. 10-24? 7 days/week, 10am-2pm, 10375 Youbou Rd. Info: JenniferC@cowichanlakeartsandculture.org
Knox Presents The Phil Dwyer Trio: Sat., Nov. 1, 7:30pm, 345 Pym. Tickets $30 & available online through Eventbrite or at Close To You Boutique/Fireside Books/Edge Outdoors.
Chemainus Classical Concerts: Bruce Vogt, piano, Nov. 2, 2:30 pm St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $30/$10. Reserved: $25. 250-748-8383.
Nanaimo Concert Band Fall Concert: Theme, ‘It was a Dark & Stormy Night’, Port Theatre, Nov. 2, 2:30pm. Adults $25, Students $15.
‘If We Are Women’ presented by Yellowpoint Drama Group now until Nov. 2 at Cedar Hall, 2388 Cedar Rd. Nanaimo. Tickets $25 at yellowpointdramagroup.org. Matinee performances, group rates available.
Cowichan Lake Arts & Culture Society presents Nerikomi Jewelry Nov 3, 4, 23, 11am-3pm, Cowichan Lake Arts Centre. Rosemary Danaher will guide you in making jewelry using coloured porcelain clay. Register www.cowichanlakeartsandculture.org
The Ron Sexsmith Band ~ Hangover Terrace Tour: Hosted by Knox Wed., Nov. 5, 7pm. Tickets $50 & available online at Eventbrite or Fireside Books/Close To You Boutique/Edge Outdoors. 345 Pym St., Parksville.
One Act Play Festival: Hosted by ECHO Players, Nov 5–8, 7:30pm at the Village Theatre, QB. Tickets at echoplayers.ca or call 250-752-3522
Once Upon a Craft Fair: Nanaimo’s largest craft fair held at Beban Park Social Centre, Fri., Nov. 7, 12-7pm; Sat., Nov. 8, 10am-5pm; Sun., Nov. 9, 10am-4pm. Adults $5, under 12, free.
Nanaimo Pottery Co-op Fall Show & Sale: Country Club Centre, Fri., Nov. 7, 10am-8pm & Sat., Nov. 8, 10am-6 pm.
Christmas in the Valley Craft Fair: Held November 7-9, at the Alberni Athletic Hall. Nov. 7, 3-7pm; Nov. 8, 10am-4pm; Nov.9, 10am-3pm. A variety of local artisans selling handmade goods. The fair offers a wonderful opportunity to shop for unique Christmas gifts.
Saltair Winter Market: Sat., Nov. 8, 10am-3pm, 3850 S Oyster School Rd., Ladysmith. Pottery, jewelery, woodwork, fabric arts & more.
Crofton Art Group Show & Sale: Held November 8, 10am-4pm at the Crofton Seniors Centre, 1507 Joan Ave (close to the ferry terminal).
United Churches Traveling Craft Fairs: Nov. 8, 11am-3pm, St. Andrews, 315 Fitzwilliam; Nov. 15, 11am-3pm, Trinity, 6011 Doumont & Nov. 22, 11am-3pm, 1644 Cedar. 250- 713-5549
St. Andrew’s 3rd Annual Christmas Market: Sat., Nov. 8, 11am-3pm. Local handmade crafts, plants, jam, baking & more. 315 Fitzwilliam, Nanaimo.
Remembering Heroes ~ A Salute to the Fallen: Presented by Oceanside Music, with special appearances by The Andrew Sisters, The Mount Arrowsmith Pipe Band on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2:30pm at Knox United, 345 Pym. Tickets avail online at: www.oceanside-music.ca
Tour the Historic Cemetery while learning about the pioneers who settled the Cowichan Valley, on Nov. 11, 2pm, St. Peter’s Anglican Cemetery, 5800 Church Rd, North Cowichan.
Port Alberni Will Observe Remembrance Day on Tuesday, November 11, with a ceremony at the Glenwood Centre, Port Alberni, starting at 10:15am. Additional services will follow at the Field of Honour in Greenwood Cemetery & the Harbour Quay Cenotaph. The events are organized by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 293.
Mid Island Floral Art Club Meeting: Floral Table Runners, Nov. 13, 2pm at St Stephen’s Church Hall, 150 Village Way, QB. Guests $6. Info: mifaclub2000@gmail.com or Joanne 250-757-8969.
Lighthouse Community Centre Market: Nov. 15, 10am-4pm & Nov. 16, 10am-3pm. Free parking & admission, door prizes & a food truck on site. 240 Lions Way, QB.
Jonanco Hobby Workshop Christmas Craft Market: Sat., Nov. 15 & Sun., Nov. 16, 10am-3pm. Handcrafted items, woodworking, baking. 2745 White Rapids Rd., Nanaimo.
Cowichan Folk Guild fundraiser: Beef & Bevy Night at Cobblestone Pub, 3566 Holland Ave., Cobble Hill. Held Nov. 17, 5:30- 8:30pm. $40. More details: info: www.islandsfolkfestival.ca or 250-748-3975.
Qualicum Beach Winterfest & Craft Fair: Nov. 21, 22 & 23 at QB Civic Centre, 747 Jones St. Visit: www.winterfestcraftfair.com
Nanaimo Yacht Club Annual Craft Fair: Held on Nov. 22, 10am-4pm, 400 Newcastle Ave. Local artisans, handmade goods & raffles. All proceeds will be donated to Loaves & Fishes Community Food Bank.
Annual Christmas Bazaar & Silent Auction: Saturday, November 29, 10am-3pm. Nanoose Library Hall, 2489 Nanoose Rd.
Chemainus Saturday Market: A Chemainus United Church Fundraiser at 9814 Willow St., 10am–2pm on Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 13 & 20. Table rentals $25. Text Joyce: 250-533-9392 or joyce.cloakey@gmail.com
Global Village Nanaimo Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade store located at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Open now until Dec. 24.
Free Skate! Nanaimo Lions Club invites you to Frank Crane Arena every Sunday, 12-1:30pm. Admission & skate rentals are free.
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.
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
1. The Rock of Gibraltar is at the tip of the Balkan, Italian, or Iberian peninsula?
2. Charlotte Brontë wrote the novel Emma - T/F?
3. What is the capital of Serbia?
4. The Tin Man wanted this from the Wizard of Oz.
5. Azalea, Hera, or Pangea was the super-continent containing all others before they separated?
2. Charlotte Brontë wrote the novel Emma - T/F?
3. What is the capital of Serbia?
4. The Tin Man wanted this from the Wizard of Oz.
5. Azalea, Hera, or Pangea was the super-continent containing all others before they separated?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
As the week starts, you might be tempted to be impulsive or argumentative. For a few days, carefully consider your words before speaking. You may be grateful later. Lucky numbers: 7, 14, 18, 26, 32, 44.
This week may be a good time to review the last five or more years of your life. Consider what no longer serves you and perhaps could be brought to completion. Lucky numbers: 3, 4, 27, 29, 32, 33.
Are you in a stalemate between your desire for freedom and a need to maintain the status quo? Consider postponing any action and what adjustment may be needed. Lucky numbers: 2, 10, 17, 18, 27, 39.
This weekend may be a good time to retreat into your shell and focus on self care. You probably would be better able to help others if you help yourself first. Lucky numbers: 14, 20, 27, 28, 42, 44.
You may have a high level of energy and ambition this week to advance something you are passionate about. Be sure to triple check the details before proceeding. Lucky numbers: 9, 15, 18, 33, 40, 48.
Virgos generally don’t let their egos get in the way. That may not be true now. Should you back off or do you have a valid complaint that needs addressing? Lucky numbers: 7, 9, 20, 28, 31, 33.
At the beginning of the week, your normal tact and diplomacy could abandon you. Consider if you really need to have a frank conversation with that person now. Lucky numbers: 10, 17, 29, 36, 47, 48.
For the next few weeks, relationships may experience an intense period of examination. Do the work to maintain the ones important to you and release those that aren’t. Lucky numbers: 4, 12, 16, 28, 33, 44.
Be careful in choosing your words this week so you don’t put your foot in your mouth. Take a deep breath and ask, “Do I really need to say this now?” Lucky numbers: 1, 2, 8, 27, 35, 40.
Your heart and head may be in opposition at the end of the week. Consider how you can reconcile the stalemate, or wait a few days for this to pass. Lucky numbers: 6, 11, 22, 23, 30, 31.
Midweek, you may be very eager to make changes in your life. However, if you run into conflict with others, especially your partner, take a step back and regroup. Lucky numbers: 8, 13, 14, 36, 38, 39.
Are you continuing an endeavour from last week that you are racing to finish? Are your efforts in line with your values? If not, what adjustment needs to be made? Lucky numbers: 5, 10, 17, 21, 41, 42.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Cancer winners with the luckiest number being 27.
Season markers: Solstices bring the longest and shortest days of the entire year, while equinoxes almost evenly split day and night. These turning points come from Earth’s tilt as it orbits the Sun, and they help keep the seasons in motion.
Clock roots: Before modern watches, people tracked time with shadows, sand, and dripping water. Water clocks and hourglasses made it possible to measure time indoors and at sea. These simple tools helped shape today’s timekeeping.
Bonus bun: To stay out of trouble, bakers in medieval England added an extra item to orders. If someone asked for 12 loaves, they’d often get 13. “The Baker’s Dozen” helped the baker avoid harsh penalties if one loaf turned out too light.
Heat keeper: Your body works like a smart thermostat. When you get too hot or cold, your brain kicks in to balance things out by sweating, shivering, or adjusting your blood flow. It’s all part of keeping your inner climate steady.
Sky silence: Planes aren’t allowed to fly above the Taj Mahal. India declared the area a no-fly zone to protect the monument and its surroundings. As a result, both commercial and private aircraft are prohibited from passing directly above the iconic site.
Which part of school is the farmer’s favourite? Field trips.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Mushroom. Mushroom who? There’s mushroom for improvement on that last joke.
The judge couldn’t be disturbed at dinner because His Honour was at steak.
I didn’t think I would like fencing until I decided to take a stab at it.
Patient: “Doctor, I keep thinking I am a bell.”
Doctor: “Take these tablets and if they don’t work, give me a ring.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Mushroom. Mushroom who? There’s mushroom for improvement on that last joke.
The judge couldn’t be disturbed at dinner because His Honour was at steak.
I didn’t think I would like fencing until I decided to take a stab at it.
Patient: “Doctor, I keep thinking I am a bell.”
Doctor: “Take these tablets and if they don’t work, give me a ring.”
Trivia Answers: 1. Iberian 2. False, Jane Austen 3. Belgrade 4. A heart
5. Pangea
PDF Versions of our Publication
(just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Print versions are currently available in:
Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Errington, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay & Victoria.
More areas coming soon!
October 27 - November 2, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Island survivor: A tiny dog named Valerie managed to survive alone in the wild for 529 days on Kangaroo Island, off the southern coast of Australia. The miniature dachshund vanished during a camping trip and avoided rescue efforts for months, despite trail cameras, food traps, and even her owner’s scent being used to lure her in. Volunteers with a local wildlife group finally gained her trust by sitting calmly with treats and familiar objects, waiting until she was ready. After countless hours and kilometres travelled, they brought her to safety. Though she’s still adjusting, Valerie’s story has warmed many hearts. Against all odds, the little dog proved just how far resilience can go.
Lifeline calls: In the small village of Sharrington, England, residents rallied to save their historical red phone box by queuing up to make dozens of calls in a single day. Though slated for removal due to low usage, the booth has served as an emergency resource for locals and visitors alike, including paramedics unable to get mobile reception. The campaign’s leader says the surge in calls shows strong support and that the box is more than a relic, it’s a real necessity. Community members described it as a piece of history and a symbol of unity, especially in an area where vital services have slowly disappeared. Whether or not the phone company moves ahead with removal, the signal from locals is loud and clear.
Tortoise breakthrough: A century-old Galapagos tortoise has become a first-time mother, marking a milestone for a Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (U.S.), zoo and a hopeful step for her endangered species. The hatchlings’ parents, who are two of the zoo’s oldest tortoises, were paired through a breeding program designed to protect this rare subspecies. Four babies recently emerged and are now growing behind the scenes, with more eggs still being monitored. The mother, known as Mommy, had never passed on her genes, making these hatchlings especially valuable. With so few of these tortoises in captivity, each new arrival adds critical genetic diversity. Their tiny steps mark meaningful progress for conservation.
Face rocks: In Chichibu, Japan, an unusual museum houses more than a thousand naturally formed rocks that bear a striking resemblance to human faces. Known as Chinsekikan, or the “Hall of Curious Rocks,” the collection includes stones that unintentionally mirror everything from famous musicians to cartoon characters. None are carved, but each was shaped solely by nature, then spotted for its personality-packed expression. The founder, who spent decades collecting these stony lookalikes, insisted on no alterations, preferring only rocks that seemed to gaze back on their own. Experts say the shapes result from mineral fractures, weathering, and erosion that mimic facial features. Still, whether you see Elvis or E.T., it’s hard not to smile back.
“There is no gate, no lock, no bolt that you can set upon the freedom of my mind” - Virginia Woolf
“The world will ask you who you are, and if you don’t know, the world will tell you.” - Carl Jung
“The world will ask you who you are, and if you don’t know, the world will tell you.” - Carl Jung
FREE listings for non-profit community events.
Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca
(Deadline Fridays - one week in advance)
Nanaimo Hospital Auxiliary Quilt & Craft Sale: Sat., Oct. 25, 10am-4pm, Country Club Centre. Assorted quilts, knitted, crocheted & sewn items. All proceeds benefit our hospital.
Chemainus Saturday Market: A Chemainus United Church Fundraiser at 9814 Willow St., 10am–2pm on Oct. 25, Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 13 & 20. Table rentals $25. Text Joyce: 250-533-9392 or joyce.cloakey@gmail.com
Fall Bazaar: Hosted by Church of the Ascension Catholic Women’s League, Oct. 25, 9am-2pm, 887 Wembley Rd, Parksville. Crafts, baking & more.
Knox Concerts presents International Concert Pianist Ida Pelliccioli, on Sat., Oct. 25, 7pm, 345 Pym St., Parksville. Tickets $30 & available online through Eventbrite & at Fireside Books/Close To You Boutique/Edge Outdoors.
She - Sells Market & Fundraiser: Sat., Oct. 25, 10am-3pm at Parksville Community Centre, 223 Mills Rd. Over 40 artisans & local business owners. Canteen services, raffles, shopping & live performance by Island Harmony Acapella.
2025 Craft Fair: 30 tables of arts, crafts & baking. Held Sun., Oct. 26, 10am-4pm at Nanaimo Golf Club, 2800 Highland Blvd., in the Banquet Room. Proceeds to Salvation Army.
10th Annual Mushroom & Nature Festival: Sun., Oct. 26, 11am-4pm, Qualicum Beach Civic Centre.
ECHO Players presents ‘The Melville Boys’: At the Village Theatre in Qualicum Beach, until Oct. 26, Wed - Sat 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm. Tickets at echoplayers.ca or call 250-752-3522
Story Nook at the Fall Fair & Market: Cowichan South Arts Guild (CSAG) provides Storytellers who lead 4 x 35 minute free sessions of interactive storytelling in a quiet gathering space. Held Oct. 26 all day at 2804 Shawnigan Lake Rd. For info, email: hello@cowichansouthartsguild.com
Planning to Downsize in 2026? Learn everything you need to know for free by reserving your spot (& bring a friend) on Wed., Oct. 29, 1-3pm at Nanaimo Golf Club. Pre-register at 250-616-3641.
Halloween Party with ‘End in M’: Held at The Rainbow Room, Port Alberni, on Friday, October 31. If you Dare to have a good time this Halloween, join us with local top 40 Rock Cover band End In M. They’re sure to have you howling at the moon. Costume Contest at Midnight.
Knox Presents The Phil Dwyer Trio: Sat., Nov. 1, 7:30pm, 345 Pym. Tickets $30 & available online through Eventbrite or at Close To You Boutique/Fireside Books/Edge Outdoors.
Chemainus Classical Concerts: Bruce Vogt, piano, Nov. 2, 2:30 pm St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $30/$10. Reserved: $25. 250-748-8383.
Nanaimo Concert Band Fall Concert: Theme, ‘It was a Dark & Stormy Night’, Port Theatre, Nov. 2, 2:30pm. Adults $25, Students $15.
‘If We Are Women’ presented by Yellowpoint Drama Group now until Nov. 2 at Cedar Hall, 2388 Cedar Rd. Nanaimo. Tickets $25 at yellowpointdramagroup.org. Matinee performances, group rates available.
Cowichan Lake Arts & Culture Society presents Nerikomi Jewelry Nov 3, 4, 23, 11am-3pm, Cowichan Lake Arts Centre. Rosemary Danaher will guide you in making jewelry using coloured porcelain clay. Register www.cowichanlakeartsandculture.org
Once Upon a Craft Fair: Nanaimo’s largest craft fair held at Beban Park Social Centre, Fri., Nov. 7, 12-7pm; Sat., Nov. 8, 10am-5pm; Sun., Nov. 9, 10am-4pm. Adults $5, under 12, free.
Nanaimo Pottery Co-op Fall Show & Sale: Country Club Centre, Fri., Nov. 7, 10am-8pm & Sat., Nov. 8, 10am-6 pm.
Christmas in the Valley Craft Fair: Held November 7-9, at the Alberni Athletic Hall. Nov. 7, 3-7pm; Nov. 8, 10am-4pm; Nov.9, 10am-3pm. A variety of local artisans selling handmade goods. The fair offers a wonderful opportunity to shop for unique Christmas gifts.
Saltair Winter Market: Sat., Nov. 8, 10am-3pm, 3850 S Oyster School Rd., Ladysmith. Pottery, jewelery, woodwork, fabric arts & more.
Crofton Art Group Show & Sale: Held November 8, 10am-4pm at the Crofton Seniors Centre, 1507 Joan Ave (close to the ferry terminal).
United Churches Traveling Craft Fairs: Nov. 8, 11am-3pm, St. Andrews, 315 Fitzwilliam; Nov. 15, 11am-3pm, Trinity, 6011 Doumont & Nov. 22, 11am-3pm, 1644 Cedar. 250- 713-5549
Remembering Heroes ~ A Salute to the Fallen: Presented by Oceanside Music, with special appearances by The Andrew Sisters, The Mount Arrowsmith Pipe Band on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2:30pm at Knox United, 345 Pym. Tickets avail online at: www.oceanside-music.ca
Tour the Historic Cemetery while learning about the pioneers who settled the Cowichan Valley, on Nov. 11, 2pm, St. Peter’s Anglican Cemetery, 5800 Church Rd, North Cowichan.
Port Alberni Will Observe Remembrance Day on Tuesday, November 11, with a ceremony at the Glenwood Centre, Port Alberni, starting at 10:15am. Additional services will follow at the Field of Honour in Greenwood Cemetery & the Harbour Quay Cenotaph. The events are organized by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 293.
Mid Island Floral Art Club Meeting: Floral Table Runners, Nov. 13, 2pm at St Stephen’s Church Hall, 150 Village Way, QB. Guests $6. Info: mifaclub2000@gmail.com or Joanne 250-757-8969.
Cowichan Folk Guild fundraiser: Beef & Bevy Night at Cobblestone Pub, 3566 Holland Ave., Cobble Hill. Held Nov. 17, 5:30- 8:30pm. $40. More details: info: www.islandsfolkfestival.ca or 250-748-3975.
Qualicum Beach Winterfest & Craft Fair: Nov. 21, 22 & 23 at QB Civic Centre, 747 Jones St. Visit: www.winterfestcraftfair.com
Global Village Nanaimo Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade store located at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Open now until Dec. 24.
Free Skate! Nanaimo Lions Club invites you to Frank Crane Arena every Sunday, 12-1:30pm. Admission & skate rentals are free.
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.
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
1. The Lion, the Witch, and the ____ was written by C.S. Lewis.
2. This dance became a huge craze during the Roaring Twenties.
3. The Northwest Passage is in Antarctica - T/F?
4. This singer was known as “Old Blue Eyes.”
5. Canada’s longest river is the Mackenzie, MacDougal, or McClaren River?
2. This dance became a huge craze during the Roaring Twenties.
3. The Northwest Passage is in Antarctica - T/F?
4. This singer was known as “Old Blue Eyes.”
5. Canada’s longest river is the Mackenzie, MacDougal, or McClaren River?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
You may feel at a stalemate about how to move forward in some area of your life. What viewpoint adjustment might create positive movement in the situation? Lucky numbers: 11, 13, 14, 18, 23, 43.
A Taurus likes to have time to process information and make decisions, but a lot of data may come at you now. Don’t feel pressured to act unless you feel comfortable. Lucky numbers: 2, 8, 15, 17, 28, 45.
Energies influencing you are in flux, so you may feel anxious as a result. Especially at midweek, be mindful when driving and when working with electrical devices. Lucky numbers: 7, 8, 16, 30, 34, 44.
You may feel particularly eager and ambitious this week to accomplish what you most desire. Just be realistic in assessing the risks you could be taking in the process. Lucky numbers: 5, 15, 18, 28, 36, 47.
This week consider focusing your efforts outside of your needs. What might you do now to help a fellow human or two? Some of the benefits may accrue to you. Lucky numbers: 7, 8, 18, 20, 25, 32.
The scariest thing this Halloween might be thoughts bubbling up from your unconscious. They may contain important insights so try not to look away from them. Lucky numbers: 3, 4, 8, 13, 21, 44.
You are coming to the end of a period that encouraged you to claim your power. Have you taken advantage of it, and what additional action could you take this week? Lucky numbers: 4, 24, 27, 30, 32, 47.
The next few weeks may provide an opportunity to lighten up your communication style. Yes, your insights are serious, but how you present them need not be grim. Lucky numbers: 6, 10, 33, 36, 42, 44.
For the next few weeks, you may be eager to explore new ideas, especially in philosophy and beliefs. Consider holding off on taking immediate actions based on them. Lucky numbers: 1, 10, 13, 17, 24, 43.
Did a new idea and plan come to you at the end of last week? Do you think it is viable, and how might you implement it now, before this opportunity passes by? Lucky numbers: 13, 28, 29, 35, 36, 48.
You may have an opportunity to work with others whose beliefs are aligned with yours. What endeavours can you accomplish together? Make this plan a joint effort. Lucky numbers: 10, 14, 19, 27, 32, 34.
You may feel a sense of urgency to complete something before it is too late. Take a deep breath and ground yourself. Then dig in and do the work. Lucky numbers: 9, 16, 22, 26, 43, 45.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Libra winners with the luckiest number being 27.
Sacred trunk: To the ancient Maya, the Central American Indigenous civilization, the towering ceiba tree represented the universe itself. Its deep roots symbolized the underworld, the trunk stood for human life, and its wide canopy reached toward the heavens.
Currency connection: In 1999, a group of European countries introduced the euro for electronic transactions to unify trade and boost cooperation. A few years later, coins and bills rolled out for everyday use. It marked a new chapter in continental teamwork.
Puppy muse: Paul McCartney’s beloved dog Martha inspired the Beatles tune Martha My Dear. Though the lyrics sound like they’re meant for a woman, the song was really a musical nod to his fluffy, four-legged companion.
Arcade origins: Long before arcades, pinball began as a tabletop game called Bagatelle. The switch to coin-operated machines with flippers, bumpers, and flashing lights developed over decades. One early upgrade, a spring-loaded plunger, helped launch the modern experience.
Shell secret: A tortoise is a type of turtle, but it sticks to land and skips the swimming altogether. Its legs are more like sturdy stumps than flippers, built for walking instead of paddling. While all tortoises are turtles, not all turtles follow the same path through life.
First ant: “What’s that smell, is it you?”
Second ant: “No, it's de oder ant.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Tummy. Tummy who? Tummy you’ll always be number one!
What is a better name for a fly swatter? A fly splatter.
Lately, my skiing skills are really going downhill.
Diner: “I’ll have the alligator sandwich, and make it snappy!”
Second ant: “No, it's de oder ant.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Tummy. Tummy who? Tummy you’ll always be number one!
What is a better name for a fly swatter? A fly splatter.
Lately, my skiing skills are really going downhill.
Diner: “I’ll have the alligator sandwich, and make it snappy!”
Trivia Answers: 1. Wardrobe 2. Charleston 3. False, Arctic 4. Frank Sinatra 5. Mackenzie
PDF Versions of our Publication
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Print versions are currently available in:
Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Errington, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay & Victoria.
More areas coming soon!
October 20 - 26, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Surprise tip: A bartender closing up for the night got a life-changing surprise when pop-rap star Post Malone left a $20,000 (USD) tip on a nearly empty bill. The musician had been out celebrating with friends when he stopped by a local bar in Houston, Texas (U.S.). After learning that someone else had already covered his tab, he asked to be charged a token amount anyway, just so he could leave something behind. The bill was rung up for a single dollar, and the tip that followed left the server in tears. Known for his chart-topping hits and face tattoos, Malone has also built a quiet reputation for generosity, and this act turned an ordinary shift into something unforgettable.
Family found: In Buckinghamshire, England, a woman who was adopted as a baby finally met her birth sisters after decades of wondering about her past. With her own search going nowhere, she hired a private investigator who, just months later, handed her the names and locations of her birth family. A reunion was soon arranged, and she connected instantly with two half-sisters, sharing interests, conversation styles, and even a physical resemblance. They now regularly stay in touch and meet when they can, and she has embraced a new chapter filled with shared memories and a sense of belonging. What once felt like a missing piece has quietly settled into her life in a new, grounded way.
Sniff test: Giant rats are being used in parts of Africa to spot tuberculosis in a way that’s fast, cheap, and surprisingly accurate. Trained to detect the smell of bacteria in mucus samples, these animals can quickly identify signs of infection that standard tests sometimes miss. After conventional screening, samples are sent to a lab where rats inspect them one by one, pausing briefly when they sense a positive. The program is run by a nonprofit that began by training rats to detect landmines. Now, these rodents are helping uncover hidden tuberculosis cases, especially in places where testing resources are limited. Their tiny noses may be saving lives in places where speed and cost make all the difference.
Wayfinding art: Colourful murals painted on apartment blocks are doing more than decorating walls in Singapore. They’re helping people with dementia navigate home. Each building features a bold image, like a teacup or a candy wrapper, chosen to match familiar items from local culture. The idea came from the challenge residents faced when all the buildings looked too similar, especially for those with memory issues. Across the world, more cities are exploring similar ideas: adding simple visuals, improving public seating, and making spaces easier to understand without relying only on text. These visual cues can ease confusion and boost independence. A mural might seem small, but to someone feeling lost, it can be a powerful anchor.
“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.” - Albert Einstein
“Since I’ve learned to be silent, everything has come so much closer to me.” - Rainer Maria Rilke
“Since I’ve learned to be silent, everything has come so much closer to me.” - Rainer Maria Rilke
FREE listings for non-profit community events.
Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca
(Deadline Fridays - one week in advance)
Return to Form ~ Grand Opening: Visit 1970 Diesel Way, Nanaimo, Sat., Oct. 18, 11am-3pm to learn how kinesiology & pilates can help you move with strength & find balance.
A Group of Guys in Concert! Classic hits of 60’s, 70’s & 80’s. Oct 18, 7:30 pm. $25 on Eventbrite, $30 door.2020 Estevan Rd, Nanaimo
22nd Kairos World Craft Bazaar Oceanside: Sat., Oct 18, 10am-4pm, Knox United Church, Parksville. Artisans, ethically purchased crafts & supporting organizations from global villages around the world. Free admission. Info: 250-927-2717.
Knox Concerts presents the JW Jones Band on Sat., Oct. 18, 7pm at 345 Pym St., Parksville. Tickets $30 & available online through Eventbrite & at Fireside Books/Close To You Boutique/Edge Outdoors.
Free Public Flu & Covid Vaccine Clinic: Sun., Oct. 19, 3-5pm. Please bring your care card. Brechin United Church, 2020 Estevan Rd.
Probus Club of Duncan presents Dr. Elizabeth Zoffman, Madagascar ‘The Cost of Colonization’, Tues., Oct. 21, 10:30am at Arbutus Ridge Golf Course. Free event but pre-registration required 778-422-0220.
Nanaimo Quilters’ Guild Meeting: Thurs., Oct. 23, 1:30pm & 6:30pm at Nanaimo Curling Club, 106 Wall St.
Nanaimo Hospital Auxiliary Quilt & Craft Sale: Sat., Oct. 25, 10am-4pm, Country Club Centre. Assorted quilts, knitted, crocheted & sewn items. All proceeds benefit our hospital.
Chemainus Saturday Market: A Chemainus United Church Fundraiser at 9814 Willow St., 10am–2pm on Oct. 25, Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 13 & 20. Table rentals $25. Text Joyce: 250-533-9392 or joyce.cloakey@gmail.com
Fall Bazaar: Hosted by Church of the Ascension Catholic Women’s League, Oct. 25, 9am-2pm, 887 Wembley Rd, Parksville. Crafts, baking & more.
Knox Concerts presents International Concert Pianist Ida Pelliccioli, on Sat., Oct. 25, 7pm, 345 Pym St., Parksville. Tickets $30 & available online through Eventbrite & at Fireside Books/Close To You Boutique/Edge Outdoors.
She - Sells Market & Fundraiser: Sat., Oct. 25, 10am-3pm at Parksville Community Centre, 223 Mills Rd. Over 40 artisans & local business owners. Canteen services, raffles, shopping & live performance by Island Harmony Acapella.
2025 Craft Fair: 30 tables of arts, crafts & baking. Held Sun., Oct. 26, 10am-4pm at Nanaimo Golf Club, 2800 Highland Blvd., in the Banquet Room. Proceeds to Salvation Army.
10th Annual Mushroom & Nature Festival: Sun., Oct. 26, 11am-4pm, Qualicum Beach Civic Centre.
ECHO Players presents ‘The Melville Boys’: At the Village Theatre in Qualicum Beach, until Oct. 26, Wed - Sat 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm. Tickets at echoplayers.ca or call 250-752-3522
Story Nook at the Fall Fair & Market: Cowichan South Arts Guild (CSAG) provides Storytellers who lead 4 x 35 minute free sessions of interactive storytelling in a quiet gathering space. Held Oct. 26 all day at 2804 Shawnigan Lake Rd. For info, email: hello@cowichansouthartsguild.com
Planning to Downsize in 2026? Learn everything you need to know for free by reserving your spot (& bring a friend) on Wed., Oct. 29, 1-3pm at Nanaimo Golf Club. Pre-register at 250-616-3641.
Halloween Party with ‘End in M’: Held at The Rainbow Room, Port Alberni, on Friday, October 31. If you Dare to have a good time this Halloween, join us with local top 40 Rock Cover band End In M. They’re sure to have you howling at the moon. Costume Contest at Midnight.
‘If We Are Women’ presented by Yellowpoint Drama Group now until Nov. 2 at Cedar Hall, 2388 Cedar Rd. Nanaimo. Tickets $25 at yellowpointdramagroup.org. Matinee performances, group rates available.
Cowichan Lake Arts & Culture Society presents Nerikomi Jewelry Nov 3, 4, 23, 11am-3pm, Cowichan Lake Arts Centre. Rosemary Danaher will guide you in making jewelry using coloured porcelain clay. Register www.cowichanlakeartsandculture.org
Once Upon a Craft Fair: Nanaimo’s largest craft fair held at Beban Park Social Centre, Fri., Nov. 7, 12-7pm; Sat., Nov. 8, 10am-5pm; Sun., Nov. 9, 10am-4pm. Adults $5, under 12, free.
Nanaimo Pottery Co-op Fall Show & Sale: Country Club Centre, Fri., Nov. 7, 10am-8pm & Sat., Nov. 8, 10am-6 pm.
Christmas in the Valley Craft Fair: Held November 7-9, at the Alberni Athletic Hall. Nov. 7, 3-7pm; Nov. 8, 10am-4pm; Nov.9, 10am-3pm. A variety of local artisans selling handmade goods. The fair offers a wonderful opportunity to shop for unique Christmas gifts.
Crofton Art Group Show & Sale: Held November 8, 10am-4pm at the Crofton Seniors Centre, 1507 Joan Ave (close to the ferry terminal).
Tour the Historic Cemetery while learning about the pioneers who settled the Cowichan Valley, on Nov. 11, 2pm, St. Peter’s Anglican Cemetery, 5800 Church Rd, North Cowichan.
Port Alberni Will Observe Remembrance Day on Tuesday, November 11, with a ceremony at the Glenwood Centre, Port Alberni, starting at 10:15am. Additional services will follow at the Field of Honour in Greenwood Cemetery & the Harbour Quay Cenotaph. The events are organized by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 293.
Qualicum Beach Winterfest & Craft Fair: Nov. 21, 22 & 23 at QB Civic Centre, 747 Jones St. Visit: www.winterfestcraftfair.com
Global Village Nanaimo Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade store located at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Open now until Dec. 24.
Free Skate! Nanaimo Lions Club invites you to Frank Crane Arena every Sunday, 12-1:30pm. Admission & skate rentals are free.
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.
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
1. A saguaro is one of this type of plant.
2. Who wrote and first sang “Lime in the Coconut?”
3. This is the highest peak in the Alps.
4. The author of The Plague was _____.
5. In what kind of building would you find a nave, an apse, and a transept?
2. Who wrote and first sang “Lime in the Coconut?”
3. This is the highest peak in the Alps.
4. The author of The Plague was _____.
5. In what kind of building would you find a nave, an apse, and a transept?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
An old emotional wound may resurface at midweek. Avoid the temptation to make it seem larger than it actually is. Finding or being a mentor may help you heal. Lucky numbers: 10, 17, 21, 22, 33, 41.
For a few weeks, you may run into stalemates in communicating with others. Be careful of self-sabotage by creating conflicts that may be difficult to retract later. Lucky numbers: 11, 13, 22, 24, 28, 39.
The opportunities presented to you now may take you back over old territory. Focus on selecting the one that will encourage you to advance your spiritual development. Lucky numbers: 1, 9, 13, 15, 21, 39.
Do you have a project that needs the support of others? The end of this week may offer a good time to make your pitch. Focus on presenting a well-developed plan. Lucky numbers: 5, 9, 12, 29, 41, 43.
Be careful of letting your ego get in the way during interactions with others. Try to find a win-win compromise. Otherwise retreat from the situation for a few weeks. Lucky numbers: 7, 8, 9, 10, 22, 36.
Virgos can be reluctant to showcase their own skills and accomplishments. For a few weeks, seek an opportunity to do this in communications. Good things may result. Lucky numbers: 10, 17, 23, 31, 42, 48.
Early this week is a good time to consider and set new intentions. However, you might want to wait a couple of weeks to begin implementation of the new endeavours. Lucky numbers: 9, 12, 21, 26, 28, 34.
Your birthday month is a good time to review last year’s accomplishments and set new goals. Avoid discouragement by not harshly judging your past efforts. Lucky numbers: 6, 14, 18, 22, 39, 48.
At the end of the week, what might be a good way to satisfy your adventurous nature? Consider exploring a new culture, through travel or by reading and researching. Lucky numbers: 3, 5, 7, 41, 45, 48.
Your heart and head could be in sync and well grounded at the end of the week. This may be a good time to develop a plan to hit the ground running next week. Lucky numbers: 2, 5, 17, 40, 47, 48.
A red alert goes into effect for this weekend. Be careful when driving. Also be conscious of when someone tweaks your ego, and avoid picking a fight with them. Lucky numbers: 8, 11, 20, 26, 37, 42.
Your spiritual growth may have hit a rough patch the last six months and could continue for a few more. What adjustment might keep up your spirits in the interim? Lucky numbers: 4, 29, 33, 45, 47, 48.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Gemini winners with the luckiest number being 21.
Toothy talent: Freddie Mercury, lead singer of the British rock band Queen, had extra teeth that stuck out. Though teased for his smile, he never changed it as he believed they gave his voice more space and power. He chose music over appearance, and it paid off.
Calm switch: Mindfulness generally refers to paying attention to the present moment with less judgment. It’s been linked to lower stress, better focus, and steadier emotions. While ancient in origin, the practice is now widely used in therapy settings.
Lake leader: Canada has more lakes than any other country in the world. Its water-rich landscape includes hundreds of thousands of lakes, many large enough to rival small seas. From vast shores to quiet bays, it’s a paddler’s paradise.
Pocket powerhouse: The best-selling musical instrument in the world isn’t the guitar or piano. It’s the harmonica. Its small size, low cost, and easy upkeep have helped the harmonica outsell every other instrument, making the small item a big hit.
Clipped together: Before paperclips, people used ribbons, string, or sewing pins to hold pages together. The familiar double-loop design came later. A Norwegian inventor named Johan Vaaler was the first to patent a bent-wire version in the early 1900s.
After waiting hours for the bowling alley to open, we finally got the ball rolling.
Beach: “How ya dune?’ Ocean: “Just swell.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Clothesline. Clothesline who? Clothesline on the floor get wrinkled.
Why did Miss Muffet need a map? Because she lost her whey.
A good computer programmer comes through when the chips are down.
Beach: “How ya dune?’ Ocean: “Just swell.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Clothesline. Clothesline who? Clothesline on the floor get wrinkled.
Why did Miss Muffet need a map? Because she lost her whey.
A good computer programmer comes through when the chips are down.
Trivia Answers: 1. Cactus 2. Harry Nilsson 3. Mont Blanc 4. Albert Camus 5. Church
PDF Versions of our Publication
(just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Print versions are currently available in:
Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Errington, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay & Victoria.
More areas coming soon!
October 13 - 19, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Thread revival: Old clothes are being turned into brand new ones in the town of Sundsvall, Sweden. They’re not just being reused as rags or stuffing, but made into fresh fabric. Inside a former paper factory, machines shred used clothing, remove the plastic, and press the fibres into sheets that can be used to craft new garments. With rapid-turnover apparel creating huge amounts of waste, this kind of recycling offers a way to close the loop. More companies across Europe are using chemical processes to break fabric down and reuse it again and again. Big fashion brands are starting to join in, helping to expand these efforts. As clothing waste keeps growing, this approach may help the industry clean up its act.
Transit boost: Eliminating bus fares has done more than help people get around Kansas City, Missouri (U.S.). It also has improved health. Free transit means more people walking to and from bus stops, which boosts daily movement and supports better outcomes for heart health and stress levels. For many, the change has made trips to food shops, jobs, and clinics more affordable and frequent. Studies show that riders feel better, report lower financial strain, and use the system more often than before. Across the U.S., other cities are following suit, especially where fare collection never covered much of the cost anyway. As more research unfolds, free public transit may prove to be one of the simplest tools for community well-being.
Shared sightseeing: Across the world, blind and sighted travellers are taking on bold adventures - together. Guided by a travel model that pairs each blind guest with a sighted travel companion, tours like these include bungee jumping, sailing, hiking, and even skydiving, with experiences described out loud in real time. Companies like Traveleyes are leading the way, ensuring both accessibility and equality, without relying on family or paid helpers. The setup encourages independence while opening up richer travel experiences for everyone. From group meals to volcano treks, each pair shares the moment side-by-side. The memories go beyond sightseeing; they build a connection that lasts far longer than the trip.
Grazing solution: In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (U.S.), herds of goats are tackling invasive weeds with enthusiasm and without chemicals. Brought in by local organizations, these animals chew through knotweed, ivy, and other destructive plants that crowd city parks and wild areas. Surefooted and curious, goats are ideal for steep slopes and dense brush, reaching places where people and machines struggle. The process helps reduce the need for herbicides, while also mimicking the benefits wild animals once brought to meadows. In other cities, pilot projects are exploring this natural method as part of a broader land care approach. For now, the goats eat, climb, and clear, earning their keep one mouthful at a time.
“If we are unduly absorbed in improving our lives we may forget altogether to live them.” - Alan Watts
“People radiate what is in their minds and in their hearts.”
- Eleanor H. Porter
“People radiate what is in their minds and in their hearts.”
- Eleanor H. Porter
FREE listings for non-profit community events.
Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca
(Deadline Fridays - one week in advance)
Crafts From the Crypt Fair: A spooky Halloween arts & crafts fair held Oct. 11 & 12 at Highland Pacific Golf, 450 Creed Rd., Victoria. Admission $5 (under 12 is free). Proudly donating to local charities. For more info visit: CraftsFromTheCryptFair.com
Qualicum Beach Garden Club will feature Connie Kuramoto, Horticulturist/ Educator/ Environmentalist on Oct. 14, 7:30pm at Qualicum Beach Civic Centre, 747 Jones Ave.
‘The True Story of Florence Foster Jenkins’: Presented by Nanaimo Theatre Group, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Wed-Sun, Oct 16-Nov 2. Tickets: nanaimotheatregroup.ca or 250-758-7224.
‘If We Are Women’ presented by Yellowpoint Drama Group on Oct. 17 - Nov. 2 at Cedar Hall, 2388 Cedar Rd. Nanaimo. Tickets $25 at yellowpointdramagroup.org. Matinee performances, group rates available.
Return to Form ~ Grand Opening: Visit 1970 Diesel Way, Nanaimo, Sat., Oct. 18, 11am-3pm to learn how kinesiology & pilates can help you move with strength & find balance.
A Group of Guys in Concert! Classic hits of 60’s, 70’s & 80’s. Oct 18, 7:30 pm. $25 on Eventbrite, $30 door.2020 Estevan Rd, Nanaimo
22nd Kairos World Craft Bazaar Oceanside: Sat., Oct 18, 10am-4pm, Knox United Church, Parksville. Artisans, ethically purchased crafts & supporting organizations from global villages around the world. Free admission. Info: 250-927-2717.
Knox Concerts presents the JW Jones Band on Sat., Oct. 18, 7pm at 345 Pym St., Parksville. Tickets $30 & available online through Eventbrite & at Fireside Books/Close To You Boutique/Edge Outdoors.
Free Public Flu & Covid Vaccine Clinic: Sun., Oct. 19, 3-5pm. Please bring your care card. Brechin United Church, 2020 Estevan Rd.
Probus Club of Duncan presents Dr. Elizabeth Zoffman, Madagascar ‘The Cost of Colonization’, Tues., Oct. 21, 10:30am at Arbutus Ridge Golf Course. Free event but pre-registration required 778-422-0220.
She - Sells Market & Fundraiser: Sat., Oct. 25, 10am-3pm at Parksville Community Centre, 223 Mills Rd. Over 40 artisans & local business owners. Canteen services, raffles, shopping & live performance by Island Harmony Acapella.
Chemainus Saturday Market: A Chemainus United Church Fundraiser at 9814 Willow St., 10am–2pm on Oct. 25, Nov. 29, Dec. 6, 13 & 20. Table rentals $25. Text Joyce: 250-533-9392 or joyce.cloakey@gmail.com
Nanaimo Hospital Auxiliary Quilt & Craft Sale: Sat., Oct. 25, 10am-4pm, Country Club Centre. Assorted quilts, knitted, crocheted & sewn items. All proceeds benefit our hospital.
ECHO Players presents ‘The Melville Boys’: At the Village Theatre in Qualicum Beach, until Oct. 26, Wed - Sat 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm. Tickets at echoplayers.ca or call 250-752-3522
Story Nook at the Fall Fair & Market: Cowichan South Arts Guild (CSAG) provides Storytellers who lead 4 x 35 minute free sessions of interactive storytelling in a quiet gathering space. Held Oct. 26 all day at 2804 Shawnigan Lake Rd. For info, email: hello@cowichansouthartsguild.com
Planning to Downsize in 2026? Learn everything you need to know for free by reserving your spot (& bring a friend) on Wed., Oct. 29, 1-3pm at Nanaimo Golf Club. Pre-register at 250-616-3641.
Halloween Party with ‘End in M’: Held at The Rainbow Room, Port Alberni, on Friday, October 31. If you Dare to have a good time this Halloween, join us with local top 40 Rock Cover band End In M. They’re sure to have you howling at the moon. Costume Contest at Midnight.
Christmas in the Valley Craft Fair: Held November 7-9, at the Alberni Athletic Hall. Nov. 7, 3-7pm; Nov. 8, 10am-4pm; Nov.9, 10am-3pm. A variety of local artisans selling handmade goods. The fair offers a wonderful opportunity to shop for unique Christmas gifts.
Crofton Art Group Show & Sale: Held November 8, 10am-4pm at the Crofton Seniors Centre, 1507 Joan Ave (close to the ferry terminal).
Port Alberni Will Observe Remembrance Day on Tuesday, November 11, with a ceremony at the Glenwood Centre, Port Alberni, starting at 10:15am. Additional services will follow at the Field of Honour in Greenwood Cemetery & the Harbour Quay Cenotaph. The events are organized by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 293.
District 69 Dart Association is looking for dart players & spares for the coming season Sept/25 to May/26 at Eagles Hall, 297 Pioneer Crescent, Parksville.
The Nanaimo Lions Club invites you to come out and enjoy our 14th Annual Lions Free Skate at the Frank Crane Arena. The sessions run to March 23, 2025. Sessions are every Sunday from 12 noon to 1.30 PM. Admission and skate rentals are free.
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.
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
1. Who wrote The Old Man and the Sea?
2. She was George Washington’s wife.
3. Is mitochondrial DNA inherited from a father or mother?
4. Cape Breton is located in this Canadian province.
5. Did Chopin compose music mostly for viola, piano, or flute?
2. She was George Washington’s wife.
3. Is mitochondrial DNA inherited from a father or mother?
4. Cape Breton is located in this Canadian province.
5. Did Chopin compose music mostly for viola, piano, or flute?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Consider how this traditional wisdom might apply to you right now: “If you love something, let it go. If it comes back, it was meant to be. If it doesn’t, it never was.” Lucky numbers: 9, 14, 20, 28, 36, 47.
Over the next month, there may be an opportunity to adjust your view on what you value and are passionate about manifesting. What could a change help you achieve? Lucky numbers: 5, 9, 21, 36, 39, 48.
New opportunities may emerge this week about resolving issues in your relationships. Consider how to use them to help develop more harmony between you and others. Lucky numbers: 11, 15, 19, 26, 46, 47.
“All things in moderation” would be a good motto for you at midweek. Be particularly aware of what you are eating and how you process what you are feeling. Lucky numbers: 10, 18, 22, 26, 29, 37.
Your confidence level may get a boost for a few days at midweek. Make a plan to use this energy to achieve a new goal before this energy dissipates. Lucky numbers: 18, 26, 29, 35, 43, 44.
Virgos understand that it is the little details that can make the difference for an endeavour to be successful. You can shine at midweek by showing your ability in this regard. Lucky numbers: 4, 14, 15, 35, 39, 48.
You may have an opportunity for the next few weeks to fully step into your power. How might you want to use it to advance a goal of something you value? Lucky numbers: 6, 21, 23, 29, 32, 36.
Scorpios have an innate ability to see and unearth that which is hidden. It may be helpful to keep your eyes open now for an opportunity that may lie below the surface. Lucky numbers: 7, 15, 26, 36, 44, 48.
A Sagittarius can be passionate about many things, but sometimes lacks discipline to manifest them. Now you may be able to focus on one objective and initiate action. Lucky numbers: 3, 10, 12, 14, 15, 21.
You may find that your heart and head are out of sync as the week starts. Consider either finding a compromise or waiting a few days for this dynamic to pass. Lucky numbers: 8, 10, 15, 21, 25, 33.
Humanity’s advancement is an important theme for many Aquarians. If stymied, this effort now could start moving forward. What role do you want to play in this process? Lucky numbers: 2, 9, 12, 19, 23, 40.
What do you most value about yourself? Over the next six weeks, consider any adjustment that could help you manifest your unique self, once this period passes. Lucky numbers: 1, 2, 4, 20, 33, 34.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Libra winners with the luckiest number being 23.
Twinkle, twinkle: Stars appear to twinkle because their light bends as it passes through Earth’s constantly shifting atmosphere. Layers of moving air cause tiny changes in the light’s path, creating the flicker. It’s beautiful for stargazers, but frustrating for astronomers.
Smart score: IQ stands for Intelligence Quotient, a number meant to reflect a person’s thinking ability compared to others their age. Once considered a measure of intelligence, IQ is now understood to represent a range of abilities, including reasoning and problem-solving.
Desert surprise: A desert isn’t defined by heat or sand, but by how little rain it gets. That’s why even Antarctica, the coldest place on Earth, is considered a desert. Antarctica averages less than two inches (50 mm) of precipitation a year.
Carrot crunch: To voice the Bugs Bunny cartoon character, actor Mel Blanc had to chomp real carrots for the sound effect, but then he’d spit them out. They were too tough to chew while speaking, but nothing else sounded the same.
Ocean inspiration: Before creating the animated show SpongeBob SquarePants, Stephen Hillenburg was a marine biology teacher who used cartoons to teach. His blend of science and humour gave birth to one of TV’s most beloved underwater worlds.
A large hole has appeared on Main Street. Town workers are looking into it.
Eggs and ham: A day’s work for a chicken, a lifetime commitment for the pig.
Son: “Dad, I woke up laughing this morning.”
Dad: “You must have slept funny.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Adore. Adore who? Adore is between us. Open up!
What do brooms say to each other at bedtime? “Sweep tight!”
Eggs and ham: A day’s work for a chicken, a lifetime commitment for the pig.
Son: “Dad, I woke up laughing this morning.”
Dad: “You must have slept funny.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Adore. Adore who? Adore is between us. Open up!
What do brooms say to each other at bedtime? “Sweep tight!”
Trivia Answers: 1. Ernest Hemingway 2. Martha Washington
3. Mother 4. Nova Scotia 5. Piano
PDF Versions of our Publication
(just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Print versions are currently available in:
Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Errington, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay & Victoria.
More areas coming soon!
October 6 - 12, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Channel triumph: After falling in love with open-water swimming, Melanie Barratt, a former U.K. Paralympian, became the first blind woman to cross the English Channel. Starting from Dover and reaching Cap Gris Nez Beach on the French coast, she swam the full distance in less time than anticipated, guided by the faint visibility of a bright kayak beside her. Though swimming had once been her escape from isolation, it’s now become her source of strength. With no visual markers in the open sea, she relied on instinct and training honed through past races in lakes and rivers. Her athletic background gave her confidence, but this journey was a personal test unlike any other. The cold water was intense, but the sense of freedom outweighed the fear.
Safety stir: At Canada’s University of British Columbia, researchers have developed a simple but powerful tool: a drink stir stick that detects spiking drugs in seconds. Called Spikeless, the device changes colour when substances like ketamine or GHB are present, offering a fast, affordable layer of protection. An anti-violence advocate working with the team stressed that safety tools shouldn’t put the burden on individuals to protect themselves. Instead, they believe the hospitality industry should take responsibility by making drug testing a standard part of service. The goal is to see these sticks be available at bars and clubs throughout the world. It’s a small action that could help shift the culture of safety in nightlife.
Urban shift: In Barcelona, Spain, the city grid is getting a community-centred rethink through a model known as “the superblock.” These zones restrict through-traffic and reclaim streets for pedestrians, trees, and cyclists, creating calmer, greener neighbourhoods within the existing layout. Inspired by a vision from the 1800s, the approach revives an idea aimed at providing fresh air and sunlight to all residents. Today, instead of smog and horns, superblock residents find play spaces, benches, and gardens where busy roads once ran. Though early changes sparked frustration, especially from drivers, the benefits of slower, shared streets have grown more apparent. With each new conversion, the city edges a bit closer to breathing more easily.
Ice secrets: When a glacier broke apart off the coast of Antarctica, scientists on a research vessel took the opportunity to dive beneath the icy surface. What they discovered stunned them. Corals, sponges, and creatures like sea spiders and icefish were thriving where sunlight never reaches. The team used a robotic submersible to scan the deep floor, uncovering signs that life had been quietly flourishing for generations. These ecosystems have existed below ice nearly 150 meters (492 ft.) thick, far from any sunlight or surface nutrients, thriving on underwater currents as the key to their survival. Alongside the rare sightings, the crew collected samples that might belong to previously unknown species. It seems even the coldest places are full of surprises.
“There is nothing stronger in the world than gentleness.” - Han Suyin
“With hope, a mind is always free.” - Amy Tan
“With hope, a mind is always free.” - Amy Tan
FREE listings for non-profit community events.
Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca
(Deadline Fridays - one week in advance)
Secure Document Shredding: Hosted by Rotary Club of Lantzville Sat., Oct. 4, 10am–2pm in Woodgrove parking lot, Nanaimo. Suggested donation $ 15/bankers box. Credit & debit accepted.
Chemainus Classical Concerts: Simon Farintosh, guitar. Held October 5, 2:30pm at St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $30/$10. Reserved: $25. To reserve, call 250-748-8383.
Youth Paint Night: Held Tues., Oct. 7, 6pm at Fuller Lake Arena,
Chemainus. Our Art Instructor will share easy step-by-step instructions
to create a masterpiece. Canvas & supplies are included. Ages 11-18
years old. This is a free event, but registration is required at:
recreation@northcowichan.ca
ECHO Players presents ‘The Melville Boys’: At the Village Theatre in Qualicum Beach, Oct. 9 - 26, Wed - Sat 7:30pm, Sundays at 2pm. Tickets at echoplayers.ca or call 250-752-3522.
Free Community Drum Circle: Held at Nanaimo Harbourfront Library, with Patrick Aleck, on Thurs., Oct. 9, 5:30pm. Family Friendly. Bring drum or use ours.
Mid Island Floral Art Club Meeting: Held Oct. 9, 2pm ‘Decorating a Frame with Floral Material’, a workshop at St. Stephen’s Church Hall, 150 Village Way QB. Guests $6 Info: mifaclub2000@gmail.com
Crafts From the Crypt Fair: A spooky Halloween arts & crafts fair held Oct. 11 & 12 at Highland Pacific Golf, 450 Creed Rd., Victoria. Admission $5 (under 12 is free). Visit: CraftsFromTheCryptFair.com for more info. Proudly donating to local charities.
Qualicum Beach Garden Club will feature Connie Kuramoto, Horticulturist/ Educator/ Environmentalist on Oct. 14, 7:30pm at Qualicum Beach Civic Centre, 747 Jones Ave.
‘The True Story of Florence Foster Jenkins’: Presented by Nanaimo Theatre Group, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Wed-Sun, Oct 16-Nov 2. Tickets: nanaimotheatregroup.ca or 250-758-7224.
‘If We Are Women’ presented by Yellowpoint Drama Group on Oct. 17 - Nov. 2 at Cedar Hall, 2388 Cedar Rd. Nanaimo. Tickets $25 at yellowpointdramagroup.org. Matinee performances, group rates available.
Return to Form ~ Grand Opening: Visit 1970 Diesel Way, Nanaimo, Sat., Oct. 18, 11am-3pm to learn how kinesiology & pilates can help you move with strength & find balance.
22nd Kairos World Craft Bazaar Oceanside: Sat., Oct 18, 10am-4pm, Knox United Church, Parksville. Artisans, ethically purchased crafts & supporting organizations from global villages around the world. Free admission. Info: 250-927-2717.
Knox Concerts presents the JW Jones Band on Sat., Oct. 18, 7pm at 345 Pym St., Parksville. Tickets $30 & available online through Eventbrite & at Fireside Books/Close To You Boutique/Edge Outdoors.
Story Nook at the Fall Fair & Market: Cowichan South Arts Guild (CSAG) provides Storytellers who lead 4 x 35 minute free sessions of interactive storytelling in a quiet gathering space. Held Oct. 26 all day at 2804 Shawnigan Lake Rd. For info, email: hello@cowichansouthartsguild.com
Halloween Party with ‘End in M’: Held at The Rainbow Room, Port Alberni, on Friday, October 31. If you Dare to have a good time this Halloween, join us with local top 40 Rock Cover band End In M. They’re sure to have you howling at the moon. Costume Contest at Midnight.
Christmas in the Valley Craft Fair: Held November 7-9, at the Alberni Athletic Hall. Nov. 7, 3-7pm; Nov. 8, 10am-4pm; Nov.9, 10am-3pm. A variety of local artisans selling handmade goods. The fair offers a wonderful opportunity to shop for unique Christmas gifts.
Port Alberni Will Observe Remembrance Day on Tuesday, November 11, with a ceremony at the Glenwood Centre, Port Alberni, starting at 10:15am. Additional services will follow at the Field of Honour in Greenwood Cemetery & the Harbour Quay Cenotaph. The events are organized by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 293.
District 69 Dart Association is looking for dart players & spares for the coming season Sept/25 to May/26 at Eagles Hall, 297 Pioneer Crescent, Parksville.
Free Skate! Nanaimo Lions Club invites you to come to Frank Crane Arena starting noon - 1:30pm. Admission & skate rentals are free.
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.
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
1. Does a lobster have 8, 10, or 12 legs?
2. The______Magazine published the original Sherlock Holmes stories.
3. Which Winter Olympic sport requires the use of brooms?
4. Two dogs and a cat find their way home in the story The Incredible_______.
5. Swahili is the official national language of several countries on this continent.
2. The______Magazine published the original Sherlock Holmes stories.
3. Which Winter Olympic sport requires the use of brooms?
4. Two dogs and a cat find their way home in the story The Incredible_______.
5. Swahili is the official national language of several countries on this continent.
(see bottom for answers)
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You may have an opportunity this week to finally close the chapter on an old emotional wound. It likely will require making an adjustment in your view of the situation. Lucky numbers: 5, 6, 10, 12, 34, 36.
Midweek emotional volatility may tempt you to be stubborn about something you want. Taking a break and relaxing with something pleasurable might be a better approach. Lucky numbers: 9, 16, 18, 22, 23, 43.
oward the week’s end, you may find yourself overwhelmed when a lot of information comes your way. Wait a few days and then decide on any necessary changes. Lucky numbers: 8, 16, 18, 19, 25, 28.
The energy this week might generally be very beneficial for you and your endeavours. However, be careful to resist any temptation to go overboard in your actions. Lucky numbers: 6, 17, 23, 28, 42, 47.
Leos like to stay in the light of their sun. But early this week, looking into the darkness of the unconscious may serve you. See how you might integrate what you find. Lucky numbers: 16, 19, 23, 32, 33, 38.
Virgos tend to focus on concrete information from their senses. Early week, however, it may be useful for you to incorporate any intuitive insights you receive. Lucky numbers: 10, 17, 18, 40, 43, 44.
You may run into a stalemate with others at the beginning of the week. Can you find a compromise? If not, wait a few days for the situation to improve. Lucky numbers: 2, 6, 10, 17, 33, 41.
You may be inundated with intuitive insights for the next few weeks. It is important to find a healthy means to regularly unplug from others while this is in effect. Lucky numbers: 11, 14, 17, 18, 25, 31.
At week’s end, you may find that you hit a stalemate because your head and heart are not in sync. Try to take a deep breath and wait a few days to see if it passes. Lucky numbers: 1, 3, 20, 22, 25, 32.
Capricorns often exhibit quiet, serious demeanours. But early this week may offer an opportunity for you to make a more emotional connection to others, if you seek it. Lucky numbers: 7, 28, 33, 34, 37, 47.
It could be especially important this week to take a deep breath and count to 10 before speaking. Comments you make in anger may well come back to haunt you later. Lucky numbers: 3, 6, 13, 22, 34, 36.
The weekend may be a good time to do an assessment of what is and isn’t working in your life right now. This may be particularly true about your relationships. Lucky numbers: 4, 7, 18, 19, 27, 30.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Cancer winners with the luckiest number being 17.
Scary dial: When the horror film Scream hit theatres, its chilling phone scene did more than startle viewers - it sent them shopping. In the months that followed, Caller ID use tripled in North America. Suddenly, knowing who was calling became essential and not just convenient.
Air music: The theremin is an electronic instrument played without touch. Musicians control pitch and volume by moving their hands near two antennas. Shifts in position control pitch and volume, creating eerie, voice-like tones. Once a sci-fi soundtrack staple, the instrument is quietly making a comeback.
Global huh: All over the world, people say something that sounds like “huh?” From villages to cities, the sound shows up in everyday conversation when listeners don’t understand. It’s one of the few words nearly universally understood across languages.
Dessert fruit: The Blue Java banana has a creamy texture and a flavour often compared to vanilla ice cream. Its pale flesh is smooth and sweet, making it a treat that can be enjoyed raw or cooked. It’s a tropical twist on dessert.
Sky dance: In the 1970s, Canada’s national airline, Air Canada, added a mirrored dance floor to the upper deck of some transatlantic flights. Passengers flying between Toronto and Europe could stretch their legs and show off their moves, high above the clouds.
What did the big bucket say to the little bucket? You look a little pail.
There are 10 kinds of people in the world. Those who understand binary and those who do not.
If at first you don’t succeed, don’t try sky diving.
Patient: “Doctor, people keep ignoring me.”
Doctor: “Next, please!”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Dare. Dare who? Dare, dare. It’s OK.
There are 10 kinds of people in the world. Those who understand binary and those who do not.
If at first you don’t succeed, don’t try sky diving.
Patient: “Doctor, people keep ignoring me.”
Doctor: “Next, please!”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Dare. Dare who? Dare, dare. It’s OK.
Trivia Answers: 1. 10 2. Strand 3. Curling 4. Journey 5. Africa
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