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May 19 - 25, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Continental journey: A newly opened railway between Laos and China has unlocked a groundbreaking train route from Portugal to Singapore, now the world’s longest train journey. Spanning two continents and 13 countries, this epic trek connects western and eastern hemispheres entirely by rail. The route offers passengers the chance to experience stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, including Paris, Moscow, and Bangkok, with overnight stops to explore. Although requiring meticulous planning, multiple visas, and occasional bus connections, this 11,650-mile (18,749 km) journey excites train enthusiasts. After all, no flight can match the charm of watching the world roll by, one track at a time.
Googly mischief: In Bend, Oregon (U.S.), public art sculptures are getting an unexpected upgrade. Giant googly eyes are mysteriously appearing on their surfaces. While many residents are charmed by the quirky additions, city officials are less amused, citing costly clean-up efforts to protect the sculptures from adhesive damage. Among the altered pieces are a family of deer, a towering sphere, and a steel horse, part of the city’s renowned Roundabout Art Route. Though some see the googly eyes as playful interaction with public art, officials urge residents to avoid causing harm. For now, the googly prank has sparked laughs, debates, and a little extra personality for Bend’s outdoor art displays, eyesores or not!
Chopstick transformation: A startup based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, is giving discarded chopsticks a second life by turning them into durable materials for furniture and decor. ChopValue collects hundreds of thousands of chopsticks weekly from restaurants, preventing them from ending up in landfills. These chopsticks are processed in micro-factories, where they’re pressed with a water-based resin to create a composite stronger than traditional wood. The resulting products, including tables and wall decor, are sold online and used in businesses across Canada and beyond. With countless chopsticks already transformed, the company proves that even small items can contribute to a sustainable future.
Snow artistry: Artist Simon Beck transforms snow-covered landscapes into stunning works of art using only snowshoes and a ski pole. A former mapmaker, he applies his engineering skills to meticulously plan intricate geometric designs, which require hours of walking and tens of thousands of steps to complete. While his creations are short-lived due to nature’s whims, he sees beauty in their impermanence and captures them in photographs for the world to admire. From snowy mountains to sandy beaches, Beck embraces the challenges of working in constantly shifting environments. His art, blending creativity and endurance, proves that even the simplest tools can create something extraordinary, one step at a time.
“Attention is the beginning of devotion.” - Mary Oliver
“The hardest thing to do is to be true to yourself, especially when everybody is watching.” - Dave Chappelle
“The hardest thing to do is to be true to yourself, especially when everybody is watching.” - Dave Chappelle
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
Global Village Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade at Country Club Centre, Nanaimo, April 12 - May 29.
May is Legacy Month! Start your plan, shape their story. Build a legacy. For info, visit: NanaimoFoundation.com
36th Annual Denman Island Pottery Studio Tour: Held Saturday, May 17 & Sunday, May 18, 10am-5pm. For detailed information, please visit: DenmanIslandPotteryStudioTour.com
Kaatza Art Show & Sale: May 17 & 18 at Lake Cowichan Centennial Hall, 309 South Shore Rd.
Climate Storytelling Workshop: May 20, 5:30-7pm.Join the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region at 124 W 2nd Ave, Qualicum Beach, for a free dynamic workshop on climate storytelling. More info at: mabr.ca/upcoming-events
Nanaimo Quilters’ Guild, AGM: Held on Wednesday, May 21, at 1:30pm & 6:30pm at Nanaimo Curling Club, 106 Wall St.
Black Ty Gala - An Evening on Broadway: Held Saturday, May 24. A fundraising Gala to benefit Ty Watson House, Port Alberni. Dinner catered by the Starboard Grill, Live & Silent Auctions, music & more. Dress code is cocktail to black tie. Tickets $150 & available online at albernihospice.ca Also at Jim’s Clothes Closet or the AV Hospice Office.
High Tea: Held at St. Peter’s Catholic Perish, 301 Machleary St., Nanaimo by the CWL to raise funds for Crossroads Pregnancy Center. May 24, 1-4pm. Call Marta 250-667-7448 for tickets $25.
Bruce Laughlan in Concert: Held Sat., May 24, 7pm, 2020 Estevan Rd. Tickets $25 on Eventbrite or $30 at door.
Immerse Yourself in Aquatika: Paintings by Sylvie Peltier. Experience the magic of water through shimmering, reflective paintings featuring elegant water lines. Now through May 25, Tues - Sunday, 11am-3pm at McMillan Arts Centre, 133 McMillan St., Parksville.
The Bradley Centre’s 100 Mile Fleece & Fibre Fair: Sun., May 25, 9:30am-3pm, 975 Shearme Rd, Coombs. Entry by donation & free parking.
Island Soul Choir presents Glory’ with Marcus Mosely on May 25, 3pm at The Port Theatre, Nanaimo. Tickets available through porttheatre.com
Ladysmith Golf Course AGM: Sunday May 25, 2pm at 380 Davis Rd., Ladysmith. Everyone welcome. Info 250-245-7313
Interested in a Free Downsizing Seminar? Held May 29, 1-3pm at Nanaimo Golf Club. Learn how to downsize with a step-by-step plan. Reserve your spot & bring a friend, by calling 250-616-3641.
Mill Bay Garden Club Community Flower & Garden Show: Sat., May 31, 9am-2pm at Cobble Hill Hall, 3550 Watson Rd. Gardening workshops, silent auction, garden vendors, strawberry tea, plant sales, master gardeners. Info: mbgardenshow@gmail.com or 250-743-2756.
Antique Collectibles Fair: May 31, 10am-4pm at Lighthouse Hall, 240 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay. Shop 40+ vendors. Bring your treasures/heirlooms for a professional evaluation. Appraisals are by donation.
Vesna Ukrainian Dancers Year End Concert: Held June 1, 2pm, Malaspina Theatre at VIU Campus. Email vesnadancers@gmail or go to VesnaNanaimoDancers on Facebook for more information.
Chemainus Classical Concerts: Antonio Pastor, piano & Pia Bose, piano. Held June 8, 2pm St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $30/$10. Reserved: $25/$23 Phone 250-748-8383.
Hospice Volunteer Training: Wednesdays, from now until June 25, 4pm-6:30pm. Training will give you the skills needed to deliver support to grieving & palliative care clients in an informed, compassionate & confidential manner. To register: info@albernihospice.ca or 250-723-4478.
The new Quw’utsun Youth Health Centre inside the new Quw’utsun Secondary School in Duncan, is now open. Services are for Quw’utsun Secondary students, all youth in the Cowichan area aged 13 to 24 & VIU students up to 24 years old. Call 250-737-2653 for more info.
Register Now for École Publique Francophone: École des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Annual Lions Free Admission Swim: Presented by Nanaimo Lions Club at the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, 1-2:30pm every Saturday until June 28. There will be no sessions on May 17, May 24 or June 21.
Veterans Housing Support Program: John Howard Society helps Canadian Veterans & former RCMP Officers with safe, stable housing. Call 250-386-3428; veterans@jhsvic.ca or www.jhsvic.ca
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.
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
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. Iceland is considered part of Europe - T/F?
2. Kind of Blue is a best-selling album of this trumpet-playing jazz musician.
3. An amberjack is a type of _____ that is prized for its taste.
4. In what direction does the jet stream typically flow?
5. In the game of checkers, a player starts with how many pieces?
2. Kind of Blue is a best-selling album of this trumpet-playing jazz musician.
3. An amberjack is a type of _____ that is prized for its taste.
4. In what direction does the jet stream typically flow?
5. In the game of checkers, a player starts with how many pieces?
(see bottom for answers)
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Aries easily start projects but can have difficulty finishing them. Saturn is moving into your sign for three years. This may offer opportunities to develop more endurance. Lucky numbers: 7, 14, 20, 21, 25, 28.
Taurus-born tend to rely on concrete information from their senses. But this week, you may want to consider intuitive insights that you have received about an issue. Lucky numbers: 5, 28, 34, 35, 37, 38.
Your birthday month is a good time to set goals for the next year. You may find that the options are a bit overwhelming. Evaluate the pros and cons before deciding. Lucky numbers: 4, 9, 16, 19, 36, 37.
The next month’s astrological energy may grate on your nerves. Ramp up your self-care routine. Consider reducing how much information you regularly consume. Lucky numbers: 10, 15, 25, 27, 45, 48.
Your joyful, optimistic nature can be heightened midweek. Keep your eyes open for a new romantic opportunity, but understand that it may not have long-term potential. Lucky numbers: 2, 8, 10, 17, 28, 43.
You may feel your grounded skill set is disrupted at midweek, causing you to feel disoriented. Take a deep breath and wait a few days for this dynamic to pass. Lucky numbers: 9, 11, 16, 21, 34, 37.
Some Libras prioritize the needs of others over their own. Saturn passing through Aries for the next three years could help you add grit to your relationship style. Lucky numbers: 11, 18, 19, 20, 22, 40.
Others may reject your intuitive insights at the end of the week. For the sake of your relationship with them, resist any temptation to dig in your heels about the matter. Lucky numbers: 12, 17, 26, 28, 44, 46.
It has been about six months since your birthday. If you set new goals then, do a check-in about what is working and what might need to change for you to stay on track. Lucky numbers: 3, 8, 11, 14, 21, 40.
Capricorns often prefer tried-and-true methods. But over the next month, consider adjusting your approach to include new ways to productively accomplish your goals. Lucky numbers: 6, 13, 25, 36, 39, 47.
Can you articulate to yourself and others what you consider the mission statement for your life? This week may be a good time for a deep dive within about this question. Lucky numbers: 1, 15, 21, 31, 32, 43.
This may be a week when you feel that you are taking two steps forward and one step back because the energies are not in sync. The dynamic could ease soon. Lucky numbers: 8, 10, 14, 22, 40, 45.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Leo winners with the luckiest number being 17.
Brick genius: LEGO, named from the Danish words leg godt meaning “play well,” started in a carpenter’s workshop. Now a global toy giant, its iconic brick design encourages endless creativity and has been named the “Toy of the Century.”
Naked glory: Ancient Greek Olympic athletes competed nude, believing it enhanced performance. Runners abandoned loincloths, inspired by tales of speed. This tradition symbolized athleticism and simplicity in the original games.
Built strong: Bones are impressively durable, far outperforming steel in strength for their weight. A small cube of bone can bear the load of five pickup trucks, highlighting nature’s ability to create lightweight yet powerful structures.
Search origins: Before it became Google, the search engine had a quirky name: BackRub. It analyzed web “backlinks” to rank sites. By 1997, it was renamed after “googol,” a term for the number 1 followed by 100 zeroes.
Bouncer beginnings: Before his days as leader of the Catholic Church, Jorge Mario Bergoglio worked as a nightclub bouncer in Buenos Aires. The future Pope Francis handled rowdy crowds, a role that would later contrast with his compassionate, welcoming approach.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Sherlock. Sherlock who? Sherlock the door, see if I care!
Show me a famous surgeon, I’ll show you a big operator.
I went to the doctor and told him a pair of bongos fell on my head. He said I had a slight percussion.
Wife: “Where are you going with your golf clubs?”
Husband: “To a tee party.”
What do Sir Galahad and Sir Lancelot watch at 6 o’clock? The knightly news.
Show me a famous surgeon, I’ll show you a big operator.
I went to the doctor and told him a pair of bongos fell on my head. He said I had a slight percussion.
Wife: “Where are you going with your golf clubs?”
Husband: “To a tee party.”
What do Sir Galahad and Sir Lancelot watch at 6 o’clock? The knightly news.
Trivia Answers: 1. True 2. Miles Davis 3. Fish 4. West to east 5. 12
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, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay & Victoria.
More areas coming soon!
May 12 - 18, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Mirrored skies: Stretching endlessly across Bolivia’s southwest corner near the Chilean border, Salar de Uyuni is a surreal expanse of dazzling salt. As water coats its surface during the rainy season, this vast flatland, formed by ancient lakes, transforms into a massive mirror, creating breathtaking reflections of the sky. Whether the surface is wet or dry, the flat is a photographer’s dream, offering endless creative opportunities for playing with perspective. Beyond its beauty, the flat contains immense lithium reserves, vital for powering modern devices, and its flawless surface is even used to calibrate satellite instruments. In this corner of the world, nature’s artistry truly shines crystal clear, and salt never looked so sweet.
Plastic revolution: Nzambi Matee is transforming Kenya’s plastic pollution problem by turning waste into durable building materials. Through her company, Gjenge Makers, she creates bricks from recycled plastic and sand, offering a sustainable alternative for construction projects like roads and housing. With a background in engineering, Matee began her research in a
small lab before scaling up production with advanced facilities. Her bricks, made through high-temperature compression, are lightweight, long-lasting, and far more durable than traditional bricks. By tackling plastic waste while addressing housing needs, Matee proves that solutions to environmental challenges can build stronger communities and a healthier planet.
small lab before scaling up production with advanced facilities. Her bricks, made through high-temperature compression, are lightweight, long-lasting, and far more durable than traditional bricks. By tackling plastic waste while addressing housing needs, Matee proves that solutions to environmental challenges can build stronger communities and a healthier planet.
Reindeer defence: In Norway’s snow-covered landscapes, reindeer herds have long puzzled predators with an extraordinary survival tactic: a spiralling formation called a “reindeer cyclone.” This tightly packed, whirling motion makes it very difficult for hunters to isolate a single target. A documentary has captured this rare behaviour, combining vivid Viking hunt re-enactments with footage of the herds in motion. Reindeer were vital to Viking life, providing resources like food, hides, and antlers for tools and trade. Artifacts preserved in Norway’s thawing ice reveal more about the tools Vikings used to hunt these elusive animals. In the end, nature’s choreography can leave even the fiercest hunters spinning in circles.
Ancient cure: A high school student, Destany “Sky” Pete of the Shoshone and Paiute Tribes, uncovered a powerful cancer-fighting potential in a traditional Indigenous American recipe. Inspired by the health challenges in her community, Sky tested chokecherry pudding, a dish known as toishabui, for its medicinal properties. Collaborating with a biochemistry professor, she found that the pudding, made with crushed chokecherry pits, killed cancer cells within 24 hours in lab tests. Rooted in ancestral wisdom, this discovery earned her top honours at a science fair and drew attention to the health benefits of traditional diets. Sky’s work blends ancient practices with modern science, proving that the past still holds life-changing secrets.
“Quiet people have the loudest minds.” - Stephen Hawking
“There is a calmness to a life lived in gratitude, a quiet joy.”
- Ralph H. Blum
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
Global Village Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade at Country Club Centre, Nanaimo, April 12 - May 29.
Nanaimo Theatre Group presents the ghost story ‘The Woman in Black’, April 23-May 11, at the Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Nanaimo. Tickets $26 nanaimotheatregroup.ca or 250-758-7224.
May is Legacy Month! Start your plan, shape their story. Build a legacy. For info, visit: NanaimoFoundation.com
Not Just a Mom’s Market: Held Sat., May 10, 10am-3pm at Bradley Centre, 975 Shearme Rd., Coombs. 45+ local artisans, concession, free parking & free admission. Hosted by Two Chicks & a Llama.
Jonanco Hobby Workshop Demo Day: Sat., May 10, 10am-3pm. Visit our facilities. Used tool sale, bake sale.2745 White Rapids Rd.
Annual Truss Show & Plant Sale presented by Nanaimo Rhododendron Society, will take place at the Centennial Building, Beban Park, Nanaimo, May 10, 10am-2pm. Free admission.
Grief Journalling Workshop: May 12, 10am-12pm. Participants provided a journal, prompts & suggestions on how to get started using a grief journal. Register: AV Hospice 250-723-4478 / info@albernihospice.ca ($15).
Nanaimo Family History Society Meeting: Mon., May 12, 7pm. Marianne Rasmus presents ‘Ella’s Story: Expanding that Empty Branch on the Family Tree’. Via ZOOM: nanaimofamilyhistory.ca/membership
Qualicum Beach Garden Club Guest Lecture: May 13, 7:30pm. David James from QB Streamkeepers on Water Management & Salmon Lifecycle. Qualicum Beach Civic Centre. $5 guests.
Hospice Volunteer Training: Wednesdays, May 14 - June 25, 4pm-6:30pm. Training will give you the skills needed to deliver support to grieving & palliative care clients in an informed, compassionate & confidential manner. To register: info@albernihospice.ca or 250-723-4478.
36th Annual Denman Island Pottery Studio Tour: Held Saturday, May 17 & Sunday, May 18, 10am-5pm. For detailed information, please visit: DenmanIslandPotteryStudioTour.com
Nanaimo Quilters’ Guild, AGM: Held on Wednesday, May 21, at 1:30pm & 6:30pm at Nanaimo Curling Club, 106 Wall St.
Black Ty Gala - An Evening on Broadway: Held Saturday, May 24. A fundraising Gala to benefit Ty Watson House, Port Alberni. Dinner catered by the Starboard Grill, Live & Silent Auctions, music & more. Dress code is cocktail to black tie. Tickets $150 & available online at albernihospice.ca Also at Jim’s Clothes Closet or the AV Hospice Office.
Immerse Yourself in Aquatika: Paintings by Sylvie Peltier. Experience the magic of water through shimmering, reflective paintings featuring elegant water lines. Now through May 25, Tues - Sunday, 11am-3pm at McMillan Arts Centre, 133 McMillan St., Parksville.
Island Soul Choir presents Glory’ with Marcus Mosely on May 25, 3pm at The Port Theatre, Nanaimo. Tickets available through porttheatre.com
Ladysmith Golf Course AGM: Sunday May 25, 2pm at 380 Davis Rd., Ladysmith. Everyone welcome. Info 250-245-7313
Mill Bay Garden Club Community Flower & Garden Show: Sat., May 31, 9am-2pm at Cobble Hill Hall, 3550 Watson Rd. Gardening workshops, silent auction, garden vendors, strawberry tea, plant sales, master gardeners. Info: mbgardenshow@gmail.com or 250-743-2756.
Antique Collectibles Fair: May 31, 10am-4pm at Lighthouse Hall, 240 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay. Shop 40+ vendors. Bring your treasures/heirlooms for a professional evaluation. Appraisals are by donation.
The new Quw’utsun Youth Health Centre inside the new Quw’utsun Secondary School in Duncan, is now open. Services are for Quw’utsun Secondary students, all youth in the Cowichan area aged 13 to 24 & VIU students up to 24 years old. Call 250-737-2653 for more info.
Register Now for École Publique Francophone: École des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Annual Lions Free Admission Swim: Presented by Nanaimo Lions Club at the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, 1-2:30pm every Saturday until June 28. There will be no sessions on May 17, May 24 or June 21.
Veterans Housing Support Program: John Howard Society helps Canadian Veterans & former RCMP Officers with safe, stable housing. Call 250-386-3428; veterans@jhsvic.ca or www.jhsvic.ca
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.
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
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 does the Japanese word judo mean?
2. In what year did the Berlin Wall fall?
3. The Beatles were from what English city?
4. The loose skin hanging from a turkey’s chin is called a tongue - T/F?
5. In what profession is the scruple used as a measure?
2. In what year did the Berlin Wall fall?
3. The Beatles were from what English city?
4. The loose skin hanging from a turkey’s chin is called a tongue - T/F?
5. In what profession is the scruple used as a measure?
(see bottom for answers)
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This week you may have an opportunity to help someone else address an old wound. Speaking about your own healing process could be helpful to them now. Lucky numbers: 6, 15, 18, 28, 35, 40.
A sudden insight may shake up your view of who you are. Give yourself time to integrate this information, instead of taking action based on your initial reaction. Lucky numbers: 7, 8, 13, 17, 19, 42.
This week you may find that things are easily going your way. This pattern might not last long, so you could try to take advantage of it before the dynamic changes. Lucky numbers: 8, 9, 29, 38, 43, 48.
Toward the end of the week, you may feel discouraged about your life situation. This aspect might pass in a few days. So try to take a deep breath and wait. Lucky numbers: 2, 9, 14, 28, 29, 31.
Be careful in your communications with others at the end of the week. Your mind may be sharper than normal, but be sure that your tongue isn’t sharper, as well. Lucky numbers: 10, 12, 14, 26, 31, 36.
Virgos don’t always cultivate intuition as a valuable skill. This week may present an opportunity to do so, if you look for it, but it might require stepping outside the box. Lucky numbers: 5, 11, 18, 35, 37, 43.
You may have an opportunity at the start of the week to resolve a situation. But first you might need to make an honest assessment of what you can and cannot accept. Lucky numbers: 3, 7, 9, 19, 29, 35.
Last week’s opportunity may continue into early this week to tie up loose ends and complete a project. Soon you might be able to move on to something else. Lucky numbers: 13, 19, 35, 37, 45, 47.
Your natural optimism may be heightened early this week. Enjoy the feeling, but be aware of how much risk you might take on if you are making an important decision. Lucky numbers: 4, 5, 13, 28, 33, 39.
Midweek, you may wish to work on your own. While this energy could enhance your ambition, it might encourage you to lock horns with others in disagreements. Lucky numbers: 8, 19, 28, 33, 43, 46.
Important information may emerge from your unconscious this week, which may be stressful at first. But positively integrating the insights could help you move forward. Lucky numbers: 1, 5, 7, 11, 31, 39.
You may have an opportunity early in the week to see a realistic view of a situation. Once that is done, then focus on tapping into your intuition to find a good solution. Lucky numbers: 9, 10, 22, 24, 29, 40.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Sagittarius winners with the luckiest number being 33.
Whiskey plates: In the U.S. state of Minnesota, some DUI offenders get “whiskey plates,” special licence plates starting with a W. These plates let them drive for essential needs like work or school while marking their history of driving offenses.
Sneezing slumber: Sneezing is impossible during deep sleep because the muscles involved in the reflex temporarily shut down. This paralysis occurs during REM sleep, allowing the body to rest undisturbed by irritants like dust or pollen.
Oyster switch: Oysters start life as males and later transform into females, annually producing millions of eggs. This unique life cycle allows them to efficiently reproduce, ensuring their role in the ocean’s delicate ecosystem.
Brow mystery: Painted by Leonardo Da Vinci, the “Mona Lisa” once had visible eyebrows and eyelashes, which were erased by years of previous restoration efforts. Scans also uncovered adjustments to her hands and other features.
Dog ban: In 1994, sled dogs were prohibited from Antarctica due to fears that they might spread illnesses to seals. These hardworking dogs had played a vital role in exploration before being replaced by mechanized transport.
Sports fan: “Are baseball umpires good eaters?”
Waitress: “Yes, they always clean their plate.”
What kind of business did Mr. Gopher set up? A hole sale business.
Waitress: “Yes, they always clean their plate.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Alex. Alex who? Alex the questions around here!
I have a turtle who wears “people-neck sweaters.”
A van crashed, loaded with thesauruses. Witnesses were astonished, shocked, taken aback, surprised, startled.
Trivia Answers: 1. The gentle way 2. 1989 3. Liverpool 4. False, a wattle
5. Pharmacy
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!
May 5 - 11, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Divided glow: Berlin’s past as a divided city still glimmers in the night sky. Viewed from space, the city’s eastern streets glow a warm orange, while the west shines in brighter, whiter light. This difference stems from the types of streetlights used. There are older, sodium-vapour lamps in the east and more modern fluorescent lighting in the west. The contrast reflects Cold War-era infrastructure, as each side developed separately under differing influences and priorities. Although Berlin has been reunified for decades, this striking light pattern is a reminder of its divided history. As the city transitions to more energy-efficient lighting, this glowing legacy may soon fade.
Eco subway: Barcelona’s subway system is transforming energy efficiency. Every time a train slows down, the energy its brakes generate is converted to electricity that, in turn, supplies one-third of the subway’s energy needs. This renewable energy powers trains, stations, station lights, and EV chargers. The energy even powers the ultra-fast charging points near metro stops. To maximize energy recovery and cut carbon emissions, the MetroCHARGE initiative is installing additional inverters. By using what otherwise would be wasted energy, Barcelona’s modern subway showcases how public transit can lead to sustainable urban innovation even in the tunnels and on the tracks of a system that is over 100 years old.
Playful repairs: Jan Vormann’s creative project, Dispatchwork, uses LEGO bricks to patch damaged walls around the world, blending playfulness with public art and everyday life. Beginning in Bocchignano, Italy, the idea has spread to cities across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and beyond. Local participants contribute bricks, which are carefully fitted into walls without glue, creating vibrant patches that blend childhood nostalgia with urban repair. Some installations use just a few pieces, while others incorporate large quantities, all inviting communities to collaborate and contribute their creativity. When creativity meets collaboration, even a broken wall can tell a brighter story.
Tennis reinvention: Tennis balls, often thrown away after just a few games, are getting a second life thanks to Belgian eco-designer Mathilde Wittock. She turns discarded balls into creative furniture and sound panels, cutting and colouring each one to create functional and sustainable designs. The balls aren’t glued, allowing them to be reused or recycled later, adding to their versatility and extended lifespan. Inspired by sensory research and the idea of reducing waste, Wittock’s work shows how everyday items can be transformed into something new, impactful, and meaningful. Wittock’s designs remind us that with creativity, even waste can bounce back into a better life.
“The challenge is not to be perfect, it’s to be whole.” - Jane Fonda
“Our passions are ignited when we set out to advance a cause greater than ourselves.” - Simon Sinek
“Our passions are ignited when we set out to advance a cause greater than ourselves.” - Simon Sinek
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
Global Village Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade at Country Club Centre, Nanaimo, April 12 - May 29.
Nanaimo Theatre Group presents the ghost story ‘The Woman in Black’, April 23-May 11, at the Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Nanaimo. Tickets $26 nanaimotheatregroup.ca or 250-758-7224.
May is Legacy Month! Start your plan, shape their story. Build a legacy. For info, visit: NanaimoFoundation.com
All About The Garden Sale: Plants, veggie starts & garden related items on Saturday, May 3, 9am-1pm at 525 Yambury Rd. Q Beach Garden Club.
The Nanaimo Horticultural Society Spring Plant Sale: May 3, 10am-2pm, at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Plants & gardening books.
Echo Players Present ‘The Revolutionists’: now until May 4. Wed - Sat, 7:30pm; Sunday matinee, 2pm. Tickets at echoplayers.ca or call 250-752-3522. Village Theatre, 110W 2nd Ave.
Chemainus Classical Concerts: Josh Layne, harp on Sunday, May 4, 2pm at St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $30/$10. Reserved: $25/$23 Phone 250-748-8383.
Free Community Indigenous Drum Circle at Nanaimo Harbourfront Library with Patrick Aleck. Family Friendly. Bring drum or use ours. Held May 8, 5:30pm.
Mid Island Floral Art Club Meeting: ‘Materials for outdoor displays’, May 8, 2pm at St. Stephen’s Church Hall, 150 Village Way, Qualicum Beach. Guest $6. Info Joanne 250-757-8969.
Crofton Art Group Spring Show & Sale: Featuring original art, jewelry & pottery, May 9 & 10, 10am-4pm, 1507 Joan Ave, Crofton.
Craig Bay Choristers’ Spring Concert: ‘Ask Me To Sing’. Special Guests, Oceanside A Cappella Knox United Church, Parksville on Friday, May 9, 7-8:30pm. $20 tickets from Fireside Books (cash only) Parksville.
Not Just a Mom’s Market: Held Sat., May 10, 10am-3pm at Bradley Centre, 975 Shearme Rd., Coombs. 45+ local artisans, concession, free parking & free admission. Hosted by Two Chicks & a Llama.
Jonanco Hobby Workshop Demo Day: Sat., May 10, 10am-3pm. Visit our facilities. Used tool sale, bake sale.2745 White Rapids Rd.
Annual Truss Show & Plant Sale presented by Nanaimo Rhododendron Society, will take place at the Centennial Building, Beban Park, Nanaimo, May 10, 10am-2pm. Free admission.
Grief Journalling Workshop: May 12, 10am-12pm. Participants provided a journal, prompts & suggestions on how to get started using a grief journal. Register: AV Hospice 250-723-4478 / info@albernihospice.ca ($15).
Nanaimo Family History Society Meeting: Mon., May 12, 7pm. Marianne Rasmus presents ‘Ella’s Story: Expanding that Empty Branch on the Family Tree’. Via ZOOM: nanaimofamilyhistory.ca/membership
Qualicum Beach Garden Club Guest Lecture: May 13, 7:30pm. David James from QB Streamkeepers on Water Management & Salmon Lifecycle. Qualicum Beach Civic Centre. $5 guests.
Hospice Volunteer Training: Wednesdays, May 14 - June 25, 4pm-6:30pm. Training will give you the skills needed to deliver support to grieving & palliative care clients in an informed, compassionate & confidential manner. To register: info@albernihospice.ca or 250-723-4478.
36th Annual Denman Island Pottery Studio Tour: Held Saturday, May 17 & Sunday, May 18, 10am-5pm. For detailed information, please visit: DenmanIslandPotteryStudioTour.com
Black Ty Gala - An Evening on Broadway: Held Saturday, May 24. A fundraising Gala to benefit Ty Watson House, Port Alberni. Dinner catered by the Starboard Grill, Live & Silent Auctions, music & more. Dress code is cocktail to black tie. Tickets $150 & available online at albernihospice.ca Also at Jim’s Clothes Closet or the AV Hospice Office.
Hospice Volunteer Training: Wednesdays, May 14 - June 25, 4pm-6:30pm. Training will give you the skills needed to deliver support to grieving & palliative care clients in an informed, compassionate & confidential manner. To register: info@albernihospice.ca or 250-723-4478.
Antique Collectibles Fair: May 31, 10am-4pm at Lighthouse Hall, 240 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay. Shop 40+ vendors. Bring your treasures/heirlooms for a professional evaluation. Appraisals are by donation.
The new Quw’utsun Youth Health Centre inside the new Quw’utsun Secondary School in Duncan, is now open. Services are for Quw’utsun Secondary students, all youth in the Cowichan area aged 13 to 24 & VIU students up to 24 years old. Call 250-737-2653 for more info.
Register Now for École Publique Francophone: École des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Annual Lions Free Admission Swim: Presented by Nanaimo Lions Club at the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, 1-2:30pm every Saturday until June 28. There will be no sessions on May 17, May 24 or June 21.
Veterans Housing Support Program: John Howard Society helps Canadian Veterans & former RCMP Officers with safe, stable housing. Call 250-386-3428; veterans@jhsvic.ca or www.jhsvic.ca
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.
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
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 is the Greek goddess of agriculture, harvest, & fertility?
2. The linear distance between two waves is called a _____.
3. Who was the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean?
4. Who wrote The Picture of Dorian Gray?
5. This natural grease is derived from sheep’s wool.
2. The linear distance between two waves is called a _____.
3. Who was the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean?
4. Who wrote The Picture of Dorian Gray?
5. This natural grease is derived from sheep’s wool.
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Consider being cautious in conversations with others this week. You might easily misunderstand what someone tells you or not clearly communicate your own ideas. Lucky numbers: 2, 8, 11, 14, 21, 43.
Carefully pick when to speak this week. Early in the week, the energy about communication could be aggressive and erratic. Later it may be more deliberate and grounded. Lucky: 12, 18, 19, 22, 27, 42.
Early this week, you might be aggressively optimistic in arguments to others. Carefully consider this strategy, as the energetic dynamic may change during the week. Lucky numbers: 13, 15, 28, 30, 37, 40.
Over the next six months, your sense of self may be challenged by others or events. Consider ways that an adjustment could result in a deeper authenticity within. Lucky numbers: 8, 12, 17, 41, 42, 46.
Leos have started a long-term period of transformation. For the next six months, your challenge may be to review what is not working in your life and plan needed changes. Lucky numbers: 5, 6, 12, 30, 40, 43.
Early this week may be good for working on a hard project, especially one of a detailed nature. But be careful not to tip into perfectionism toward yourself or others. Lucky numbers: 6, 9, 12, 14, 18, 36.
The icon for Libra is the scales. This symbolizes that achieving balance is a major theme for your life as a Libra. This challenge may be in play for you at midweek. Lucky numbers: 7, 12, 18, 22, 44, 47.
From week’s end into early next week, you may have an opportunity for an emotional reset. What isn’t working in your life and how do you want to change it? Lucky numbers: 9, 10, 15, 18, 33, 37.
Over the next six months the Universe may present an opportunity for growth and transformation of the self. Keep an open mind about what you learn during this period. Lucky numbers: 4, 17, 28, 30, 37, 46.
Building solid structures is important for Capricorns. Is something on shaky ground in your life? Identify needed changes and make a plan to do so in about six months. Lucky numbers: 8, 17, 27, 35, 39, 45.
Aquarians often focus relationships on a collective and humanitarian perspective. But this week, you may be particularly focused on a personal relationship in your life. Lucky numbers: 1, 14, 20, 28, 32, 45.
Pisces are good at picturing a grand vision. But at midweek, you may have a chance to articulate an aggressive plan to take concrete steps toward your visionary goals. Lucky numbers: 3, 5, 12, 23, 26, 35.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Pisces winners with the luckiest number being 3.
Leaf lover: Bagheera kiplingi, a rare vegetarian spider, skips hunting altogether. Found in Central America, it thrives on acacia tree nectar and leaf tips, skillfully avoiding the aggressive ants that guard the plant from intruders.
Potato pioneer: In 1952, Mr. Potato Head became the first toy advertised on TV, targeting kids instead of parents. This spud’s clever campaign sparked a shift in advertising and paved the way for toy commercials as we know them today.
Potato pioneer: In 1952, Mr. Potato Head became the first toy advertised on TV, targeting kids instead of parents. This spud’s clever campaign sparked a shift in advertising and paved the way for toy commercials as we know them today.
Martian twilight: Sunsets on Mars are unique, often displaying a blue tint caused by fine dust scattering sunlight through the planet’s thin atmosphere. These striking views differ greatly from the warm tones seen on Earth.
Anteater antics: Giant anteaters curl their claws while walking to maintain their sharpness for breaking into anthills and fending off threats. Bushy tails act as cozy blankets or sunshades, highlighting their remarkable and practical adaptations.
Tech tribute: Bluetooth technology is named after Harald “Bluetooth” Gormsson, a Viking king who united Denmark and Norway. The name symbolizes connection, and its logo cleverly incorporates his initials in Nordic runes.
Learning to drive, a son screamed to his dad, “What do I do? Here comes a telephone pole!”
Salesman: “Do you like fishing gear, sir?”
Fisherman: “Yes. I think this is finally reel love.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Dakota. Dakota who? Dakota is short in the arms for me.
The person who invented the football got a kick out of it.
What kind of television do you find in a haunted house?
A wide-scream TV
Salesman: “Do you like fishing gear, sir?”
Fisherman: “Yes. I think this is finally reel love.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Dakota. Dakota who? Dakota is short in the arms for me.
The person who invented the football got a kick out of it.
What kind of television do you find in a haunted house?
A wide-scream TV
Trivia Answers: 1. Demeter 2. Wavelength 3. Amelia Earhart 4. Oscar Wilde 5. Lanolin
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!
April 28 - May 4, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Timeless island: On Norway’s Arctic Sommarøy Island, locals embrace a life free from clocks. With dark winters and endless daylight in summer, they adopt routines where painting at midnight or swimming at dawn feels natural and liberating. Residents aim to eliminate formal schedules, creating a community built on freedom, spontaneity, and shared joy. Visitors often join the spirit, leaving their watches behind on a symbolic bridge to support the island’s vision. While some wonder how daily activities might adjust, the idea sparks intrigue and fascination. The island’s unique approach inspires others to rethink the pace, structure, and rhythm of modern life.
Pendulum proof: Léon Foucault’s ingenious pendulum experiment gave the world visible evidence of Earth’s rotation. In 1851, he suspended a pendulum that, as it swung, traced shifting patterns that offered proof of the planet’s movement beneath it. This simple yet profound demonstration amazed the public when it was later showcased at the Pantheon in Paris, where a large brass sphere on a long cable etched lines in sand, revealing the Earth’s rotation over time. Foucault’s idea made a complex concept accessible, earning him widespread acclaim. Today, pendulums inspired by his work are iconic installations in science museums, swinging gracefully as a timeless testament to the Earth’s perpetual motion.
Tree justice: In Australia, authorities are cracking down on illegal tree cutting with a creative solution: bold signboards that block the views vandals sought to clear. These signs, placed where trees have been illegally felled, call out the destruction with messages like “Trees shouldn’t die for a view” and “Who poisoned my home?” The crackdown comes in response to increasing reports of widespread tree vandalism, including mass felling incidents that have harmed local ecosystems and wildlife habitats. The tactic has drawn attention online, with many praising the effort to hold vandals accountable. It’s a clever reminder that when it comes to protecting nature, shortcuts can lead to unexpected consequences.
Secret library: A hidden library uncovered behind a wall at Sakya Monastery in Tibet revealed tens of thousands of ancient manuscripts. Safely hidden for centuries, this vast collection includes Buddhist scriptures, historical texts, and writings on art, philosophy, and science, showcasing the depth of Tibetan culture and knowledge. The volumes, written in Tibetan, Chinese, Mongolian, and Sanskrit, remain largely unexplored, with some manuscripts bound in iron and written in gold letters. As researchers work to digitize and study these texts, this treasure trove offers a rare glimpse into a world of preserved wisdom, proving that history often hides in unexpected places.
“It’s not the road that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.” - Lou Holtz
“No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main.” - John Donne
“No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main.” - John Donne
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
Global Village Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade at Country Club Centre, Nanaimo, April 12 - May 29.
Nanaimo Theatre Group presents the ghost story ‘The Woman in Black’, April 23-May 11, at the Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Nanaimo. Tickets $26 nanaimotheatregroup.ca or 250-758-7224.
Cherry Point Artists Fine Art Show & Sale: April 25 & 26 at St. Peter’s Anglican Church Hall, 5800 Church Road, Duncan.
The Palace Band in Concert: April 26, 7pm, Cedar Room, 2020 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. Tickets $25 on Eventbrite, $30 Door.
Nanaimo Gladiolus & Dahlia Society Corm & Tuber Sale: Held April 26, 10am-2pm at Country club mall, Nanaimo.
Seniors for Climate ~ Our Power, Our Planet: Baby carriage rally, Sat., Apr. 26, 1-3pm, Starts at Pearson Bridge at Maffeo Sutton Park, Nanaimo. All ages welcome.
World Tai Chi & Qigong Day: One World. One Breath - Mass Tai Chi at Maffeo Sutton Park, Sat., April 26, 9:30am-noon. Visit: midislandtaichi.org
Film Fest Winter 2025 Film Series: Sunday, April 27, 5pm ‘So Surreal: Behind the Mask’. Single film tickets are $15 or series pass $55 & available at Alberni Valley Museum. All films showing at the Paramount Theatre. For more info, call 250-720-2863.
Interested in a Free Downsizing Seminar: Learn how with a step-by-step plan. Held Wed., April 30, 1-3pm at Nanaimo Golf Club, 2800 Highland Blvd. Call 250-616-3641 to reserve your space.
Celebrate the Creativity & Talent of emerging young artists in our community. Join us May 1, 5–7pm at the Nanaimo Harbourfront Library. Enjoy live music, interactive art & an artist talk.
‘A World of Music’ ~ Spring Concert: Presented by The Harbour City Singers on Fri., May 2, 2:30pm at the Cedar Community Hall, 2388 Cedar Rd. Tickets at the door $15 /$10 students Free for children under 12
All About The Garden Sale: Plants, veggie starts & garden related items on Saturday, May 3, 9am-1pm at 525 Yambury Rd. Q Beach Garden Club.
The Nanaimo Horticultural Society Spring Plant Sale: May 3, 10am-2pm, at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Plants & gardening books.
Echo Players Present ‘The Revolutionists’: now until May 4. Wed - Sat, 7:30pm; Sunday matinee, 2pm. Tickets at echoplayers.ca or call 250-752-3522. Village Theatre, 110W 2nd Ave.
Chemainus Classical Concerts: Josh Layne, harp on Sunday, May 4, 2pm at St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $30/$10. Reserved: $25/$23 Phone 250-748-8383.
Free Community Indigenous Drum Circle at Nanaimo Harbourfront Library with Patrick Aleck. Family Friendly. Bring drum or use ours. Held May 8, 5:30pm.
Mid Island Floral Art Club Meeting: ‘Materials for outdoor displays’, May 8, 2pm at St. Stephen’s Church Hall, 150 Village Way, Qualicum Beach. Guest $6. Info Joanne 250-757-8969.
Jonanco Hobby Workshop Demo Day: Sat., May 10, 10am-3pm. Visit our facilities. Used tool sale, bake sale.2745 White Rapids Rd.
Grief Journalling Workshop: May 12, 10am-12pm. Participants provided a journal, prompts & suggestions on how to get started using a grief journal. Register: AV Hospice 250-723-4478 / info@albernihospice.ca ($15).
Nanaimo Family History Society Meeting: Mon., May 12, 7pm. Marianne Rasmus presents ‘Ella’s Story: Expanding that Empty Branch on the Family Tree’. Via ZOOM: nanaimofamilyhistory.ca/membership
Qualicum Beach Garden Club Guest Lecture: May 13, 7:30pm. David James from QB Streamkeepers on Water Management & Salmon Lifecycle. Qualicum Beach Civic Centre. $5 guests.
Hospice Volunteer Training: Wednesdays, May 14 - June 25, 4pm-6:30pm. Training will give you the skills needed to deliver support to grieving & palliative care clients in an informed, compassionate & confidential manner. To register: info@albernihospice.ca or 250-723-4478.
Black Ty Gala - An Evening on Broadway: Held Saturday, May 24. A fundraising Gala to benefit Ty Watson House, Port Alberni. Dinner catered by the Starboard Grill, Live & Silent Auctions, music & more. Dress code is cocktail to black tie. Tickets $150 & available online at albernihospice.ca Also at Jim’s Clothes Closet or the AV Hospice Office.
Hospice Volunteer Training: Wednesdays, May 14 - June 25, 4pm-6:30pm. Training will give you the skills needed to deliver support to grieving & palliative care clients in an informed, compassionate & confidential manner. To register: info@albernihospice.ca or 250-723-4478.
Antique Collectibles Fair: May 31, 10am-4pm at Lighthouse Hall, 240 Lions Way, Qualicum Bay. Shop 40+ vendors. Bring your treasures/heirlooms for a professional evaluation. Appraisals are by donation.
The new Quw’utsun Youth Health Centre inside the new Quw’utsun Secondary School in Duncan, is now open. Services are for Quw’utsun Secondary students, all youth in the Cowichan area aged 13 to 24 & VIU students up to 24 years old. Call 250-737-2653 for more info.
Register Now for École Publique Francophone: École des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Annual Lions Free Admission Swim: Presented by Nanaimo Lions Club at the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, 1-2:30pm every Saturday until June 28. There will be no sessions on April 26, May 17, May 24 or June 21.
Veterans Housing Support Program: John Howard Society helps Canadian Veterans & former RCMP Officers with safe, stable housing. Call 250-386-3428; veterans@jhsvic.ca or www.jhsvic.ca
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.
Cedar Heritage Centre Rentals: A community space ideal for meetings, workshops, small parties, health & wellness classes, or medium size gatherings. For rental inquiries, call 778-674-0466 or email: facilitybookings@rdn.bc.ca (mention Coffee News to save $20 off rentals)
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
Do You or Someone You Love Need to Travel to receive cancer treatment? You may qualify for support through our Cancer Travel & Accommodation Services program. Visit cancer.ca/CTAAS, call 1-888-939-3333 or email BCTravelFund@cancer.ca to talk to us about your options.
Cowichan Valley Sea Cadets now recruiting for youth 12-18, meeting Tuesdays 6-9pm, 6722 Beaumont Rd in Maple Bay. Friendships, on-water skills, citizenship, fitness, leadership & more, all for free. 100sea@cadets.gc.ca
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society wants to hear from residents about equity, diversity and inclusion in Nanaimo. To learn more and complete the survey, visit: cvims.org
Register Now for Ecole Publique Francophone: Ecole des Cascades, 1951 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. For info, call 250-714-0761 or in Duncan at Ecole des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Cowichan Valley Probus Club invites any retired or nearly retired to our meetings at the Arbutus Golf Club on 1st Tuesday of the month, 10am. Visit: cowichanvalleyprobusclub.ca or call 250-746-1744 for details.
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 the largest mammal in the world?
2. What astronomical term comes from the Greek word for milk?
3. Who played Princess Leia in the original Star Wars movies?
4. What is the national bird of India?
5. What novel is set on a desert planet with giant sandworms?
2. What astronomical term comes from the Greek word for milk?
3. Who played Princess Leia in the original Star Wars movies?
4. What is the national bird of India?
5. What novel is set on a desert planet with giant sandworms?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
You may be focused on a romantic relationship. If a partner’s feelings seem confusing, consider having a heartfelt conversation. Listen carefully to their thoughts. Lucky numbers: 17, 25, 26, 32, 38, 46.
Over the next six months, you may feel an intense pressure to transform your sense of self. Allowing this process to happen might be in your best long-term interests. Lucky numbers: 1, 5, 17, 30, 34, 36.
Ideas may come at you fast and furious early in the week. A good opportunity might be among them, but give yourself a few days to sort them out before deciding. Lucky numbers: 4, 18, 25, 28, 36, 43.
Your emotions may be running high mid-week, and you may be tempted to respond immediately. Perhaps first take a step back to gain more perspective on the situation. Lucky numbers: 3, 17, 21, 33, 42, 45.
Your gregarious and fun nature may be heightened heading into the weekend. If you have been considering hosting a social event, this might be a good time to do so. Lucky numbers: 2, 6, 15, 17, 35, 42.
Over the next six months, you may want to step back and review what is working, or not, in your life. Develop a plan to make changes when this period ends. Lucky numbers: 9, 10, 13, 19, 40, 43.
Are you experiencing a stalemate with a business or romantic partner? Treat the issue gently, as it may be in effect for a few weeks. A resolution might be delayed. Lucky numbers: 6, 8, 12, 22, 29, 41.
For the next six months, your intuition may pick up information that is difficult to assimilate. Develop a plan to regularly decompress and process it in a healthy way. Lucky numbers: 11, 13, 20, 26, 31, 37.
Early in the week, you may find that your mind throws a roadblock into the way of your heart’s desire. Might you be able to find a way to reconcile these two things? Lucky numbers: 7, 15, 23, 33, 42, 47.
Are others resisting something you are trying to accomplish? Addressing their concerns may help you proceed past the obstacle and produce a better outcome. Lucky numbers: 10, 12, 14, 17, 22, 35.
If you have been making good progress on a long-term humanitarian project, expect a pause for the next six months. Use this time to make any needed adjustments. Lucky numbers: 5, 7, 13, 18, 29, 47.
The astrological energy is set to be very intense over the next six months. Your ability to flow with events could make you a role model for others at this time. Lucky numbers: 8, 13, 17, 29, 32, 40.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Leo winners with the luckiest number being 17.
Nutmeg secrets: Nutmeg, once used medicinally for arthritis and digestion, contains myristicin, a compound that can trigger hallucinations in large amounts. Its overuse in the 19th century often led to serious health complications.
Cow steps: Despite popular belief, cows can walk down stairs but struggle due to their weight, stiff necks, and unfamiliarity with steep slopes. Their anatomy makes the task awkward, so they avoid it whenever possible.
Cow steps: Despite popular belief, cows can walk down stairs but struggle due to their weight, stiff necks, and unfamiliarity with steep slopes. Their anatomy makes the task awkward, so they avoid it whenever possible.
Salad story: The Caesar salad wasn’t named after Julius Caesar, but was created in the 1920s by chef Caesar Cardini in Tijuana, Mexico. Originally designed as a finger food, diners would dip whole lettuce leaves into the dressing.
Space sailors: The word “astronaut” combines the Greek roots astron (star) and nautes (sailor), translating to “star sailor.” Similarly, “cosmonaut” uses kosmos (universe) and nautes, both symbolizing humanity’s reach for the stars.
Rule makers: Established in 1857, Sheffield FC holds the title of the oldest football club. Its members crafted the groundbreaking Sheffield Rules, laying a foundation that influenced the evolution of modern football, commonly called soccer in some countries.
The man who invented velvet made a nice pile.
Scientist: “I can make a clone of anything.”
Investor: “Here’s $100. Double my money for me.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Colleen. Colleen who? Colleen up your room. It’s a mess!
What dance does bar-b-cue do? The char-char.
Tell a man there are billions of stars in the sky, he’ll believe you. Tell him the paint is wet, and he has to touch it to be sure.
Scientist: “I can make a clone of anything.”
Investor: “Here’s $100. Double my money for me.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Colleen. Colleen who? Colleen up your room. It’s a mess!
What dance does bar-b-cue do? The char-char.
Tell a man there are billions of stars in the sky, he’ll believe you. Tell him the paint is wet, and he has to touch it to be sure.
Trivia Answers: 1. Blue whale 2. Galaxy 3. Carrie Fisher 4. Peacock
5. Dune
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!
April 21 - 27, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Trash treasure: In a Dutch museum, a technician unknowingly tossed a renowned piece of art into the trash, mistaking it for debris. The piece, crafted by Alexandre Lavet to resemble dented beer cans, was part of the LAM Museum’s unconventional displays that transform everyday objects into art and challenge perceptions in delightful ways. A curator, noticing its absence, retrieved the artwork just before it was permanently discarded, saving it just in time. While the technician meant no harm, the museum plans to rethink display placements to prevent such confusion in the future. This amusing mix-up reminds us how art transforms the ordinary into extraordinary, sparking curiosity, reflection, and conversation.
Rock rhythms: Lithophones, stone instruments creating sound when struck, have been played for thousands of years. One from Sudan’s Fourth Cataract region, crafted during the Kerma period sometime between 2500 and 1500 B.C.E., offers insight into ancient ceremonies. This granite slab, marked by percussion zones and cup marks, was played by tapping or dropping stones, producing resonant tones. Positioned for gatherings, it reflects the cultural significance of music in rituals. The worn surfaces reveal their enduring use, connecting us to a time when sound, art, and community intertwined in powerful ways. These melodic stones remind us that even in ancient times, music brought people and communities together. (click the video to see a Lithophone in action)
Justice fulfilled: A Brazilian woman devoted her life to seeking justice after her father’s tragic murder, transforming her grief into determination and action. Following an argument in a bar, her father was killed by a fugitive who evaded capture for decades, despite efforts to find him. Inspired by a promise to her family, she became a police officer, dedicating herself to tracking the man down and bringing him to justice. Her journey led her to a remote farm, where she finally apprehended the man responsible for the crime. The arrest brought long-awaited closure, symbolizing resilience and the power of commitment to family. Her story reminds us that justice, though delayed, can ultimately prevail.
Illusion artistry: British sculptor Alex Chinneck turns the ordinary into the extraordinary with his jaw-dropping illusions. From melting buildings to twisting objects, his playful works challenge reality and leave audiences amazed. Once a painter, he found his true calling in sculpture at Chelsea College of Arts, experimenting with materials like bricks and glass. His public art, like a building façade seemingly ripped apart or a warehouse of shattered windows, mixes whimsy with awe. Inspired by the history and character of places, Chinneck’s creations spark wonder everywhere they appear. With ambitious projects in the U.K. and abroad, his imagination knows no bounds.
“Only the person who has faith in himself is able to be faithful to others.”
- Erich Fromm
“True friendship is like sound health; the value of it is seldom known until it is lost.” - Charles Caleb Colton
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
Global Village Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade at Country Club Centre, Nanaimo, April 12 - May 29.
Inter-Faith Earth Day Celebration: April 22, 2-3pm at Rathtrevor Provincial Park. Meet at Group Picnic Shelter S1. Park at the end of main parking lot #1 near washrooms. Info: greenteam@kucparksville.ca
Nanaimo Theatre Group presents the ghost story ‘The Woman in Black’, April 23-May 11, at the Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd., Nanaimo. Tickets $26 nanaimotheatregroup.ca or 250-758-7224.
Cherry Point Artists Fine Art Show & Sale: April 25 & 26 at St. Peter’s Anglican Church Hall, 5800 Church Road, Duncan.
The Palace Band in Concert: April 26, 7pm, Cedar Room, 2020 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. Tickets $25 on Eventbrite, $30 Door.
Nanaimo Gladiolus & Dahlia Society Corm & Tuber Sale: Held April 26, 10am-2pm at Country club mall, Nanaimo.
Seniors for Climate ~ Our Power, Our Planet: Baby carriage rally, Sat., Apr. 26, 1-3pm, Starts at Pearson Bridge at Maffeo Sutton Park, Nanaimo. All ages welcome.
World Tai Chi & Qigong Day: One World. One Breath - Mass Tai Chi at Maffeo Sutton Park, Sat., April 26, 9:30am-noon. Visit: midislandtaichi.org
Film Fest Winter 2025 Film Series: Sunday, April 27, 5pm ‘So Surreal: Behind the Mask’. Single film tickets are $15 or series pass $55 & available at Alberni Valley Museum. All films showing at the Paramount Theatre. For more info, call 250-720-2863.
Interested in a Free Downsizing Seminar: Learn how with a step-by-step plan. Held Wed., April 30, 1-3pm at Nanaimo Golf Club, 2800 Highland Blvd. Call 250-616-3641 to reserve your space.
All About The Garden Sale: Plants, veggie starts & garden related items on Saturday, May 3, 9am-1pm at 525 Yambury Rd. Q Beach Garden Club.
The Nanaimo Horticultural Society Spring Plant Sale: May 3, 10am-2pm, at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Plants & gardening books.
Echo Players Present ‘The Revolutionists’: now until May 4. Wed - Sat, 7:30pm; Sunday matinee, 2pm. Tickets at echoplayers.ca or call 250-752-3522. Village Theatre, 110W 2nd Ave.
Chemainus Classical Concerts: Josh Layne, harp on Sunday, May 4, 2pm at St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $30/$10. Reserved: $25/$23 Phone 250-748-8383.
Free Community Indigenous Drum Circle at Nanaimo Harbourfront Library with Patrick Aleck. Family Friendly. Bring drum or use ours. Held May 8, 5:30pm.
Qualicum Beach Garden Club Guest Lecture: May 13, 7:30pm. David James from QB Streamkeepers on Water Management & Salmon Lifecycle. Qualicum Beach Civic Centre. $5 guests.
Black Ty Gala - An Evening on Broadway: Held Saturday, May 24. A fundraising Gala to benefit Ty Watson House, Port Alberni. Dinner catered by the Starboard Grill, Live & Silent Auctions, music & more. Dress code is cocktail to black tie. Tickets $150 & available online at albernihospice.ca Also at Jim’s Clothes Closet or the AV Hospice Office.
Hospice Volunteer Training: Wednesdays, May 14 - June 25, 4pm-6:30pm. Training will give you the skills needed to deliver support to grieving & palliative care clients in an informed, compassionate & confidential manner. To register: info@albernihospice.ca or 250-723-4478.
The new Quw’utsun Youth Health Centre inside the new Quw’utsun Secondary School in Duncan, is now open. Services are for Quw’utsun Secondary students, all youth in the Cowichan area aged 13 to 24 & VIU students up to 24 years old. Call 250-737-2653 for more info.
Register Now for École Publique Francophone: École des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Annual Lions Free Admission Swim: Presented by Nanaimo Lions Club at the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, 1-2:30pm every Saturday until June 28. There will be no sessions on April 26, May 17, May 24 or June 21.
Veterans Housing Support Program: John Howard Society helps Canadian Veterans & former RCMP Officers with safe, stable housing. Call 250-386-3428; veterans@jhsvic.ca or www.jhsvic.ca
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.
Cedar Heritage Centre Rentals: A community space ideal for meetings, workshops, small parties, health & wellness classes, or medium size gatherings. For rental inquiries, call 778-674-0466 or email: facilitybookings@rdn.bc.ca (mention Coffee News to save $20 off rentals)
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
Do You or Someone You Love Need to Travel to receive cancer treatment? You may qualify for support through our Cancer Travel & Accommodation Services program. Visit cancer.ca/CTAAS, call 1-888-939-3333 or email BCTravelFund@cancer.ca to talk to us about your options.
Cowichan Valley Sea Cadets now recruiting for youth 12-18, meeting Tuesdays 6-9pm, 6722 Beaumont Rd in Maple Bay. Friendships, on-water skills, citizenship, fitness, leadership & more, all for free. 100sea@cadets.gc.ca
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society wants to hear from residents about equity, diversity and inclusion in Nanaimo. To learn more and complete the survey, visit: cvims.org
Register Now for Ecole Publique Francophone: Ecole des Cascades, 1951 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. For info, call 250-714-0761 or in Duncan at Ecole des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Cowichan Valley Probus Club invites any retired or nearly retired to our meetings at the Arbutus Golf Club on 1st Tuesday of the month, 10am. Visit: cowichanvalleyprobusclub.ca or call 250-746-1744 for details.
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 fictional doctor could talk to the animals.
2. The rusty spotted cat is the fattest, friendliest, or smallest wild cat in the world?
3. Noology is the study of sculpture, storms, or the mind?
4. What is the meaning of the Latin word veto?
5. Where is the archipelago of Society Islands found?
2. The rusty spotted cat is the fattest, friendliest, or smallest wild cat in the world?
3. Noology is the study of sculpture, storms, or the mind?
4. What is the meaning of the Latin word veto?
5. Where is the archipelago of Society Islands found?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
A moment of bold leadership may arise for you midweek. But pick your battles carefully in any disagreements with others. Instead, keep your attention on your goals. Lucky numbers: 3, 7, 8, 13, 20, 22.
Week’s end brings a monthly reset point. This may be a good time to set new intentions. Consider creating a list to then review and evaluate in a month. Lucky numbers: 15, 24, 37, 38, 42, 45.
For the next couple of weeks, you may find that others are drawn to you more than usual. They might help you accomplish a goal, so don’t overlook this opportunity. Lucky numbers: 2, 7, 13, 23, 36, 40.
As the weekend approaches, you may feel a sense of contentment. It might be a good time to kick back and relax. Relationship issues could be easier to resolve now. Lucky numbers: 1, 16, 17, 22, 30, 33.
Early in the week, you may feel thwarted in your efforts. This might come from within or from others. You could find success in a balance of your head and heart. Lucky numbers: 6, 8, 10, 11, 15, 29.
At midweek, you may find that your drive and attention to detail might be stymied. This should only last a few days, so take a deep breath and try to wait it out. Lucky numbers: 13, 21, 31, 40, 44, 47.
Last week’s emotional dynamic may continue in the middle of this week. You still might be able to tap into an opportunity for courage to address an ongoing issue. Lucky numbers: 5, 9, 14, 21, 30, 45.
Intuitive information, both within yourself and from others, might be evident and be hard to process. At week’s end, a grounded energy could help stabilize the situation. Lucky numbers: 9, 13, 18, 20, 42, 43.
The energy over the next couple of weeks may boost your confidence and encourage you to work harder to achieve a goal. Where do you want to focus this potential? Lucky numbers: 4, 23, 29, 31, 39, 46.
Do you have a good work-
life balance? If needed, create a plan with your family or work associates to foster this equilibrium. All parties may appreciate the change. Lucky numbers: 7, 15, 27, 38, 44, 46.
life balance? If needed, create a plan with your family or work associates to foster this equilibrium. All parties may appreciate the change. Lucky numbers: 7, 15, 27, 38, 44, 46.
Do you have an overall view of what you want to accomplish? Large projects can be overwhelming, but you may be able to take a concrete step now. Lucky numbers: 8, 17, 22, 25, 34, 48.
You may be particularly emotional at the close of the week. To use these feelings positively, dig in and work on a project that is in alignment with your values. Lucky numbers: 10, 12, 18, 20, 22, 46.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Aries winners with the luckiest number being 7.
Soundtrack surprise: Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs made history as the first film with an official soundtrack, yet none of its songs were nominated for an Oscar. Walt Disney did receive an Honourary Award in 1939 for his groundbreaking achievement.
Cocktail mystery: The Bloody Mary wasn’t always known by its famous name. Originally dubbed “Bucket of Blood,” it evolved through names like “Red Snapper” before becoming the Bloody Mary, possibly honouring Queen Mary I.
Cocktail mystery: The Bloody Mary wasn’t always known by its famous name. Originally dubbed “Bucket of Blood,” it evolved through names like “Red Snapper” before becoming the Bloody Mary, possibly honouring Queen Mary I.
Shower sparks: Creativity often happens when the brain’s decision-making areas take a break, like in the shower. This allows other regions to become active, helping us think freely and come up with unique and exciting ideas.
Rabbit quirks: Rabbits’ teeth grow continuously, but they stay short from chewing grasses and vegetables. Their side-facing eyes give them nearly full-circle vision, helping them spot predators while hopping around.
Deodorant anthem: Alternative rock band Nirvana’s song “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” written by Kurt Cobain, got its name from a surprising source: a deodorant. A friend jokingly referenced the brand Teen Spirit, but Cobain misinterpreted it as a rebellious slogan.
What does a baby computer call its father? Data.
A cat ate cheese and waited for the mouse with baited breath.
Will: “They say you are what you eat.”
Bill: “Then let’s order something rich.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Minneapolis. Minneapolis who? Minneapolis a day keeps many doctors away.
Did you hear about the guy who invented the door knocker? He won the no-bell prize.
A cat ate cheese and waited for the mouse with baited breath.
Will: “They say you are what you eat.”
Bill: “Then let’s order something rich.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Minneapolis. Minneapolis who? Minneapolis a day keeps many doctors away.
Did you hear about the guy who invented the door knocker? He won the no-bell prize.
Trivia Answers: 1. Dr. Dolittle 2. Smallest 3. The mind 4. I forbid
5. French Polynesia
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!
April 14 - 20, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Plastic roads: A Singapore-based start-up is transforming how plastic waste is managed by turning it into materials for building roads. Using innovative technology, plastic waste, including contaminated materials like hospital disposables, is processed into NEWBitumen, an alternative to conventional road materials. This innovation has already diverted significant amounts of plastic from incineration, including through a project that used NEWBitumen to pave a green driveway. By offering a sustainable solution to the plastic waste crisis, the initiative highlights how industries can reduce reliance on natural resources. It proves that one person’s trash can truly become another’s pathway forward.
Waterway wonder: Near Haunaut, Belgium, the Sart Canal Bridge masterfully blends into the landscape, making its engineering brilliance easy to overlook. Spanning 498 metres (1,634 ft.), this impressive structure serves as both a road and a waterway, supporting a canal that transports massive quantities of water. Built on challenging terrain, the bridge stands strong and durable with innovative construction techniques. Part of the Canal du Centre, it connects major waterways and facilitates both cargo and passenger movement, boosting regional efficiency. Beyond its utility, it has become a popular spot for tourists, offering stunning views, and a testament to human ingenuity. Sometimes, even bridges make waves.
Time painter: Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport features a unique art installation: a clock where the time appears to be painted by hand. Created by Dutch designer Maarten Baas as part of his “Real Time” series, the piece uses video to show a man in overalls meticulously painting and wiping the clock’s hands minute by minute. The clock hangs prominently in the airport lounge, blending functional design with performance art, and capturing the attention of millions of travelers each year. With its red bucket, yellow cloth, and subtle nods to Dutch art icons, the piece invites travelers to reflect on the passage of time in a new, thought-provoking way. In this airport, watching the clock has never been so fascinating.
Desert greenery: In Mongolia, China, Yi Jiefang transformed barren desert into thriving forests, fulfilling a promise to her late son. After he tragically passed away, Yi channeled her grief into a mission inspired by his love of nature. Selling their homes and using compensation funds, in 2003 Yi and her husband launched Green Life, a nonprofit that planted thousands of trees in the vast Alxa Desert. Once lifeless sand, the area now houses rows of flourishing greenery, a testament to their dedication. Yi found solace in helping grieving families join her tree-planting efforts, turning personal loss into symbols of renewal. Her belief was simple: while money doesn’t follow anyone beyond life, trees remain a lasting gift to the Earth.
“The supreme happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved.”
- Victor Hugo
“Gentleness is stronger than severity, water is stronger than rock, love is stronger than force.” - Herman Hesse
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
2025 Shen Yun! Magical performance from New York with live orchestra at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver from April 9 - 13. For tickets call 1-877-663-7469 or visit: ShenYun.com/Van
Global Village Pop-up Store: Non-profit fair trade at Country Club Centre, Nanaimo, April 12 - May 29.
Egg-Stravagant Easter Market: Sat., April 12, 10am-3pm at Lighthouse Community Centre, 240 Lions Way, Qualicum. Come meet Stitch the Llama & get a free hug. Selfies between 1-2pm.
Ukrainian Easter Bazaar: April 12, 11am-3pm at 4017 Victoria Ave. Selling Ukrainian hot & frozen foods, clothing, novelties & more.
Parksville Lawn Bowling Club Massive Garage Sale: April 12, 8am-2pm. 149 E. Stanford., Parksville. Something for everyone.
Tea, Art Show & Sale: Come celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Warmland Calligraphers. April 12, 11am-4pm at St. Peter Quamichan Church Hall, 5800 Church Road, North Cowichan.
Easter Extravaganza! Held Saturday, April 12, 2-6pm at Valley Seniors Organization Hall, 198 Government St., Duncan. The first 50 through the door get an easter egg surprise & a chance to win cash. Enjoy shopping with 30+ make bake or grow vendors.
South Wellington Heritage Day: Sunday, April 13, 12-4pm, 1555 Morden Road. Free event, everyone welcome.
Floral Art Club Show & Vase Sale: Hosted by Canadian Western Association on April 13, 12-4pm at Royal Canadian Legion #256, 1630 E Wellington Rd.
Nanaimo Quilters’ Guild 40th Anniversary Tea: Wed., April 16, 1:30pm at Nanaimo Curling Club, 106 Wall St.
Please Join Us For Maundy Thursday Service April 17, 7pm; Good Friday Service April 18, 10am; Easter Sunday Celebration April 20, 10am at Our Saviour Lutheran Church, 795 Island Highway W, Parksville.
Inter-Faith Earth Day Celebration: April 22, 2-3pm at Rathtrevor Provincial Park. Meet at Group Picnic Shelter S1. Park at the end of main parking lot #1 near washrooms. Info: greenteam@kucparksville.ca
Nanaimo Gladiolus & Dahlia Society Corm & Tuber Sale: Held April 26, 10am-2pm at Country club mall.
World Tai Chi & Qigong Day: One World. One Breath - Mass Tai Chi at Maffeo Sutton Park, Sat., April 26, 9:30am-noon. Visit: midislandtaichi.org
Film Fest Winter 2025 Film Series: Sunday, April 27, 5pm ‘So Surreal: Behind the Mask’. Single film tickets are $15 or series pass $55 & available at Alberni Valley Museum. All films showing at the Paramount Theatre. For more info, call 250-720-2863.
Interested in a Free Downsizing Seminar: Learn how with a step-by-step plan. Held Wed., April 30, 1-3pm at Nanaimo Golf Club, 2800 Highland Blvd. Call 250-616-3641 to reserve your space.
All About The Garden Sale: Plants, veggie starts & garden related items on Saturday, May 3, 9am-1pm at 525 Yambury Rd. Q Beach Garden Club.
Black Ty Gala - An Evening on Broadway: Held Saturday, May 24. A fundraising Gala to benefit Ty Watson House, Port Alberni. Dinner catered by the Starboard Grill, Live & Silent Auctions, music & more. Dress code is cocktail to black tie. Tickets $150 & available online at albernihospice.ca Also at Jim’s Clothes Closet or the AV Hospice Office.
Register Now for École Publique Francophone: École des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Annual Lions Free Admission Swim: Presented by Nanaimo Lions Club at the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, 1-2:30pm every Saturday until June 28. There will be no sessions on April 26, May 17, May 24 or June 21.
Veterans Housing Support Program: John Howard Society helps Canadian Veterans & former RCMP Officers with safe, stable housing. Call 250-386-3428; veterans@jhsvic.ca or www.jhsvic.ca
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.
Cedar Heritage Centre Rentals: A community space ideal for meetings, workshops, small parties, health & wellness classes, or medium size gatherings. For rental inquiries, call 778-674-0466 or email: facilitybookings@rdn.bc.ca (mention Coffee News to save $20 off rentals)
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
Do You or Someone You Love Need to Travel to receive cancer treatment? You may qualify for support through our Cancer Travel & Accommodation Services program. Visit cancer.ca/CTAAS, call 1-888-939-3333 or email BCTravelFund@cancer.ca to talk to us about your options.
Cowichan Valley Sea Cadets now recruiting for youth 12-18, meeting Tuesdays 6-9pm, 6722 Beaumont Rd in Maple Bay. Friendships, on-water skills, citizenship, fitness, leadership & more, all for free. 100sea@cadets.gc.ca
14th Annual Lions Free Skate presented by Nanaimo Lions Club. The sessions are scheduled every Sunday at the Frank Crane Arena, 12-1:30pm until March 23, 2025. Admission & skate rentals are free.
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society wants to hear from residents about equity, diversity and inclusion in Nanaimo. To learn more and complete the survey, visit: cvims.org
Register Now for Ecole Publique Francophone: Ecole des Cascades, 1951 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. For info, call 250-714-0761 or in Duncan at Ecole des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Cowichan Valley Probus Club invites any retired or nearly retired to our meetings at the Arbutus Golf Club on 1st Tuesday of the month, 10am. Visit: cowichanvalleyprobusclub.ca or call 250-746-1744 for details.
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. Copenhagen is the capital of _____.
2. Who wrote the books in the Bridgerton Series?
3. What is a group of leopards called?
4. This woman predicted the fall of Troy.
5. A plant transforms light energy into chemical energy by this process.
2. Who wrote the books in the Bridgerton Series?
3. What is a group of leopards called?
4. This woman predicted the fall of Troy.
5. A plant transforms light energy into chemical energy by this process.
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Spiritual development may start becoming a focus for you. A new opportunity for progress in this area might be available soon if you keep your eyes open for it. Lucky numbers: 2, 9, 21, 26, 33, 46.
Your birthday month is a good time to set new goals for the next 12 months. This year, consider looking for opportunities that take you outside of your comfort zone. Lucky numbers: 3, 14, 38, 44, 45, 48.
Geminis generally tend to rely on their own thought processes in decision making. But during midweek, consider leaning toward what your heart may tell you. Lucky numbers: 15, 16, 31, 40, 43, 44.
At the end of the week, you may be able to tap into a wellspring of grounded energy. Might you be able to use this energy to find a solution to an emotional issue? Lucky numbers: 10, 12, 18, 31, 37, 42.
For the next few weeks, your ambition level may kick into high gear, giving you energy to pursue goals. But try not to be overly aggressive with others now. Lucky numbers: 7, 16, 21, 22, 25, 28.
For the next month, a grounded energy could support your Virgo skill set. If you can be careful not to be obstinate with others, you may be able to achieve much more. Lucky numbers: 14, 18, 19, 22, 23, 41.
Have you been hesitant to approach a conversation about an ongoing issue with a business or romantic partner? At midweek, you may find the courage to do so. Lucky numbers: 9, 10, 16, 24, 35, 40.
Six months have passed since your birthday month. Did you set new goals at that time? How well are things going? What adjustments, if any, may be needed now? Lucky numbers: 1, 2, 4, 8, 18, 43.
Your enthusiasm level may be very high at midweek. You could use this energy to recruit others to aid your endeavours. Be careful not to oversell yourself or your efforts. Lucky numbers: 5, 13, 23, 26, 34, 35.
You may be tempted at week’s end to keep pushing through. But you may be better served to downshift for the weekend. Things may look different next week. Lucky numbers: 6, 9, 10, 13, 21, 29.
At week’s end, information may emerge from your unconscious that could reveal a new opportunity. Be careful about what insights you choose to share with others. Lucky numbers: 4, 7, 16, 17, 42, 46.
Do you have a “passion project” that has been on hold? Now may be a good time to bring it to fruition. The opportunities for doing so might not be very obvious. Lucky numbers: 12, 16, 17, 33, 40, 45.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Leo winners with the luckiest number being 7.
Message milestone: Email as we know it today was invented in 1971 when Ray Tomlinson created a way to send messages between computers. He used the now-famous @ symbol, regarding it as nothing more than a fun experiment.
Iconic improv: The famous “I’m king of the world!” line in Titanic was not in the original movie script. At director James Cameron’s suggestion, Leonardo DiCaprio shouted it during filming. The moment became a memorable highlight.
Iconic improv: The famous “I’m king of the world!” line in Titanic was not in the original movie script. At director James Cameron’s suggestion, Leonardo DiCaprio shouted it during filming. The moment became a memorable highlight.
Sack chic: During the Great Depression, families turned flour and feed sacks into clothing. Companies caught on, printing sacks with pretty patterns, making them a surprising blend of necessity and fashion in tough times.
Frozen pain: Brain freeze, scientifically known as sphenopalatine ganglioneuralgia, happens when cold food chills the mouth’s roof. Rapid blood vessel changes trigger pain signals, creating quick, sharp headaches often felt in the forehead or temples.
Combat queens: Female fighters known as Gladiatrix brought unique excitement to Roman games, battling wild beasts or skilled opponents. Trained similarly to male gladiators, they defied societal norms and thrilled audiences with daring combat.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Fitzwilliam. Fitzwilliam who? This sweater Fitzwilliam better than me.
How do you put an astronaut to sleep? You rocket.
If the lightning scares you, don’t worry. It’s over in a flash.
Mother: “Why are you selling mudpies?”
Daughter: “I want to get filthy rich.”
Did you hear about the nuclear physicist who had too many ions in the fire?
How do you put an astronaut to sleep? You rocket.
If the lightning scares you, don’t worry. It’s over in a flash.
Mother: “Why are you selling mudpies?”
Daughter: “I want to get filthy rich.”
Did you hear about the nuclear physicist who had too many ions in the fire?
Trivia Answers: 1. Denmark 2. Julia Quinn 3. Leap 4. Cassandra
5. Photosynthesis
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!
April 7 - 13, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Stellar journeys: Every year, young astronomy enthusiasts gather for the International Astronomical Youth Camp, a traveling event uniting participants worldwide since 1969. Participants embrace an unusual schedule, starting their day with a noontime breakfast and continuing through afternoons of arts, sports, and teamwork. As night falls, stargazing takes centre stage, with veterans guiding newcomers in using telescopes and observing the cosmos. The camp has visited over 15 countries, offering hands-on astronomy experiences alongside cultural exchange. Many campers leave with skills and friendships that last far beyond their time under the stars.
Timeless innovation: The ingenious miter lock, often attributed to Leonardo da Vinci in the 15th century, revolutionized waterway engineering and remains a foundational element in canal systems like the Panama Canal. Da Vinci’s concept used V-shaped gates that naturally sealed under water pressure, with valves to manage levels and reopen the gates efficiently. Modern advancements like motors and hydraulics have enhanced the design, but its fundamental principles remain unchanged. This invention allows massive ships to navigate waterways that Leonardo da Vinci could never have imagined, proving that great ideas endure far beyond their time, sometimes even reshaping the world centuries later.
Noodle fusion: In Hanoi, Vietnam, a restaurant is stirring curiosity with its peculiar culinary experiment: bubble tea beef noodles. This dish merges fresh milk, black tea, thick noodles, tapioca pearls, and tender beef slices in a vegetable broth, aiming to reinvent a beloved tea trend. The unusual combination has sparked heated debates online, with critics labeling its taste as puzzling. Some say it resembles milk tea but without its signature sweetness, while others argue the tapioca pearls clash with the overall texture. Despite the mixed reviews, clever marketing has made it a social media sensation. For the adventurous eater, it’s a dish you try not for the taste but for the tale you’ll tell afterward.
Desert greenery: In Mongolia, China, Yi Jiefang transformed barren desert into thriving forests, fulfilling a promise to her late son. After he tragically passed away, Yi channeled her grief into a mission inspired by his love of nature. Selling their homes and using compensation funds, in 2003 Yi and her husband launched Green Life, a nonprofit that planted thousands of trees in the vast Alxa Desert. Once lifeless sand, the area now houses rows of flourishing greenery, a testament to their dedication. Yi found solace in helping grieving families join her tree-planting efforts, turning personal loss into symbols of renewal. Her belief was simple: while money doesn’t follow anyone beyond life, trees remain a lasting gift to the Earth.
“Information is just bits of data. Knowledge is putting them together. Wisdom is transcending them.” - Ram Dass
“Your mind can be either your prison or your palace. What you make it is yours to decide.” - Bernard Kelvin Clive
“Your mind can be either your prison or your palace. What you make it is yours to decide.” - Bernard Kelvin Clive
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
2025 Pacific Brant Carving, Woodworking & Art Show: Held April 5 & 6 at the Qualicum Civic Centre. A celebration of nature through visual arts, wood carving & general woodwork. There will be an adjudicated competition, door prizes, raffle, sales tables & more. More info: thebrant.ca
Secure Document Shredding: Hosted by Rotary Club of Lantzville on Sat., April 5, 10am-1pm in Woodgrove parking lot. Suggested donation $15/bankers box. Credit & debit accepted. Proceeds to community events.
Annual Lions Free Admission Swim: Presented by Nanaimo Lions Club at the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, 1-2:30pm every Saturday starting April 5 & continuing to June 28. There will be no sessions on April 26, May 17, May 24 or June 21.
Chemainus Classical Concerts: Sasha Luchkov, piano on April 6, 2pm St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $30/$10. Reserved: $25/$23 Phone 250-748-8383.
Nanaimo Concert Band Spring Concert: ‘Love is in the air’ theme held April 6, 2:30pm at Port Theatre., Nanaimo. Tickets $20 & can be booked through www.porttheatre.com
Healing Gardens ~ The Power of the Garden for Healing: April 8, 7:30pm at Civic Centre, 747 Jones Ave. Guests $5 or yearly membership $15. E-transfer: QBGardenClub.membership@gmail.com
2025 Shen Yun! Magical performance from New York with live orchestra at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver from April 9 - 13. For tickets call 1-877-663-7469 or visit: ShenYun.com/Van
A Safe Place to Talk About Death ~ Café: Thursday, April 10, 7pm at AV Hospice Office, 2579 10th Ave., Port Alberni. A safe space to drink tea, eat cake & talk about death & related issues. Everyone welcome.
Egg-Stravagant Easter Market: Sat., April 12, 10am-3pm at Lighthouse Community Centre, 240 Lions Way, Qualicum. Come meet Stitch the Llama & get a free hug. Selfies between 1-2pm.
Ukrainian Easter Bazaar: April 12, 11 am-3pm at 4017 Victoria Ave. Selling Ukrainian hot & frozen foods, clothing, novelties & more.
Parksville Lawn Bowling Club Massive Garage Sale: April 12, 8am-2pm. 149 E. Stanford., Parksville. Something for everyone.
Tea, Art Show & Sale: Come celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Warmland Calligraphers. April 12, 11am-4pm at St. Peter Quamichan Church Hall, 5800 Church Road, North Cowichan.
Easter Extravaganza! Held Saturday, April 12, 2-6pm at Valley Seniors Organization Hall, 198 Government St., Duncan. The first 50 through the door get an easter egg surprise & a chance to win cash. Enjoy shopping with 30+ make bake or grow vendors.
South Wellington Heritage Day: Sunday, April 13, 12-4pm, 1555 Morden Road. Free event, everyone welcome.
Floral Art Club Show & Vase Sale: Hosted by Canadian Western Association on April 13, 12-4pm at Royal Canadian Legion #256, 1630 E Wellington Rd.
Nanaimo Gladiolus & Dahlia Society Corm & Tuber Sale: Held April 26, 10am-2pm at Country club mall.
World Tai Chi & Qigong Day: One World. One Breath - Mass Tai Chi at Maffeo Sutton Park, Sat., April 26, 9:30am-noon. Visit: midislandtaichi.org
Film Fest Winter 2025 Film Series: Sunday, April 27, 5pm ‘So Surreal: Behind the Mask’. Single film tickets are $15 or series pass $55 & available at Alberni Valley Museum. All films showing at the Paramount Theatre. For more info, call 250-720-2863.
Black Ty Gala - An Evening on Broadway: Held Saturday, May 24. A fundraising Gala to benefit Ty Watson House, Port Alberni. Dinner catered by the Starboard Grill, Live & Silent Auctions, music & more. Dress code is cocktail to black tie. Tickets $150 & available online at albernihospice.ca Also at Jim’s Clothes Closet or the AV Hospice Office.
Veterans Housing Support Program: John Howard Society helps Canadian Veterans & former RCMP Officers with safe, stable housing. Call 250-386-3428; veterans@jhsvic.ca or www.jhsvic.ca
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.
Cedar Heritage Centre Rentals: A community space ideal for meetings, workshops, small parties, health & wellness classes, or medium size gatherings. For rental inquiries, call 778-674-0466 or email: facilitybookings@rdn.bc.ca (mention Coffee News to save $20 off rentals)
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
Do You or Someone You Love Need to Travel to receive cancer treatment? You may qualify for support through our Cancer Travel & Accommodation Services program. Visit cancer.ca/CTAAS, call 1-888-939-3333 or email BCTravelFund@cancer.ca to talk to us about your options.
Cowichan Valley Sea Cadets now recruiting for youth 12-18, meeting Tuesdays 6-9pm, 6722 Beaumont Rd in Maple Bay. Friendships, on-water skills, citizenship, fitness, leadership & more, all for free. 100sea@cadets.gc.ca
14th Annual Lions Free Skate presented by Nanaimo Lions Club. The sessions are scheduled every Sunday at the Frank Crane Arena, 12-1:30pm until March 23, 2025. Admission & skate rentals are free.
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society wants to hear from residents about equity, diversity and inclusion in Nanaimo. To learn more and complete the survey, visit: cvims.org
Register Now for Ecole Publique Francophone: Ecole des Cascades, 1951 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. For info, call 250-714-0761 or in Duncan at Ecole des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Cowichan Valley Probus Club invites any retired or nearly retired to our meetings at the Arbutus Golf Club on 1st Tuesday of the month, 10am. Visit: cowichanvalleyprobusclub.ca or call 250-746-1744 for details.
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 painted the impressionist masterpiece “Water Lilies”?
2. This was the last letter to be added to the English alphabet.
3. Did MTV first air in 1979, 1981, or 1983?
4. Lake Ontario's widest point is 63km, 85km or 96km across?
5. In legal jargon pro se means by/for _____.
2. This was the last letter to be added to the English alphabet.
3. Did MTV first air in 1979, 1981, or 1983?
4. Lake Ontario's widest point is 63km, 85km or 96km across?
5. In legal jargon pro se means by/for _____.
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
For the last seven years, Aries has faced their old emotional wounds. This pattern may continue for another 18 months. What healing do you want to complete by then? Lucky numbers: 2, 3, 4, 13, 19, 34.
You may have been experiencing a pattern of sudden or unexpected events. Going with the flow may help during these transitions. Things could begin to settle for you next year. Lucky numbers: 3, 15, 27, 32, 36, 41.
If you recently have felt that your efforts were stalled, you soon may find things back on track again. Intuitive insights might abound and be more easily shared. Lucky numbers: 10, 13, 15, 26, 27, 28.
Things might have been a bit rocky for you the last couple of months, especially regarding who or what you love in your life. The situation may begin to ease now. Lucky numbers: 1, 7, 21, 29, 46, 47.
Your warm and exuberant nature may be heightened this week and therefore help you attract others. This might be to your benefit, as long as you act without drama. Lucky numbers: 7, 8, 10, 27, 36, 46.
Midweek may be a good time to focus on a project that requires great attention to detail to reach completion. Your natural talent in this regard could be expanded then. Lucky numbers: 5, 9, 12, 31, 43, 47.
Is there some issue that has been lingering on your plate for a while? Consider whether investing the time to complete it would be prudent, or if you should let it go. Lucky numbers: 12, 17, 19, 27, 38, 43.
For the past few weeks, your intuitive abilities may have felt disrupted. This dynamic could be ending now, but it might take a bit before things are fully normal. Lucky numbers: 14, 18, 20, 36, 37, 44.
In recent weeks, you may have had significant issues in communicating with others and getting things done. This pattern might change, and things could get easier soon. Lucky numbers: 10, 14, 22, 27, 43, 46.
Recently you may have questioned if you really love what you are doing. What have you learned? What changes do you need to make as this dynamic fades? Lucky numbers: 4, 7, 13, 17, 34, 40.
Is someone putting up obstacles against an endeavour you think is necessary? Be careful in assuming what others need. Solicit feedback on what they want. Lucky numbers: 11, 29, 32, 34, 36, 45.
For the last few months, you might have felt stymied, perhaps regarding your relationship. The obstacles could start to ease, but gearing up might take a while. Lucky numbers: 13, 18, 25, 32, 44, 45.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Leo winners with the luckiest number being 7.
Friendly boost: Good friends do more than lift your mood. They can improve your health, too. Strong friendships can lower stress, raise self-worth, and even reduce risks of high blood pressure and depression, potentially adding years to one’s life.
Musical milk: Studies show that dairy cows produce more milk when listening to calming classical music. By reducing stress during milking, a gentle soundtrack boosts both cow welfare and milk production, an easy harmony for happier herds.
Musical milk: Studies show that dairy cows produce more milk when listening to calming classical music. By reducing stress during milking, a gentle soundtrack boosts both cow welfare and milk production, an easy harmony for happier herds.
Proper play: At Wimbledon, the famous tennis tournament, swearing is strictly off-limits for players. To keep matches respectful, line judges learn curse words in various languages, ensuring no one slips past the rules.
Gut feeling: The gut is sometimes called the “second brain” for good reason. This complex network of neurons does more than digest food. It’s linked to emotions and mental wellness, subtly shaping how we feel each day.
Pringle pride: The iconic Pringles snack can design was patented in 1970. The Cincinnati man behind the famous design, Fredric Baur, was so proud of it that he requested part of his ashes be buried in one, which they were after his passing in 2008.
My electrician worries about current events.
Did you hear about the skunk who went to church? He had his own pew.
Don: “I have a high paying job.”
Ron: “Are you a CEO?”
Don: “No, I wash windows on a skyscraper.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Bach. Bach who? Bach to work!
What do you call a grizzly bear with no teeth? A gummy bear.
Did you hear about the skunk who went to church? He had his own pew.
Don: “I have a high paying job.”
Ron: “Are you a CEO?”
Don: “No, I wash windows on a skyscraper.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Bach. Bach who? Bach to work!
What do you call a grizzly bear with no teeth? A gummy bear.
Trivia Answers: 1. Monet 2. J 3. 1981 4. 85 5. Oneself
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!
March 31 - April 6, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Simple science: An elementary school student named Eniola Shokunbi at the Commodore MacDonough STEM Academy in Middletown, Connecticut (U.S.), led her classmates in creating an innovative air filter to combat airborne viruses. Using simple materials like a box fan, furnace filters, and duct tape, the team designed a device tested by the Environmental Protection Agency, which found it removed over 99% of airborne particles. This practical and affordable invention earned the young innovator recognition, awards, and support to further its development through a local university program. Her work highlights that accessible science can protect public health without fancy tools, just a curious mind, collaboration, and a bit of tape.
Trackless train: China has introduced a groundbreaking transport system. The world’s first trackless train offers a fresh approach to sustainable urban mobility. This advanced train uses sensor technology to navigate dotted lines painted on roads, eliminating the need for traditional railway tracks. Running on electricity, it can travel significant distances on a short charge and accommodates hundreds of passengers in its carriages. Designed to resemble a tram, its sleek, twin-head system removes the need for U-turns. The train’s rubber wheels, paired with a durable design, provide a lifespan comparable to traditional trains, enhancing its appeal for long-term urban use.
Turbine wall: A striking new wind turbine wall, known as Airiva, is bringing clean energy into urban spaces. The design features sleek, vertical turbines arranged in captivating geometric patterns that mesmerize as they spin in the wind. These systems can line highways, bridges, or campuses, blending artistry with practicality while generating renewable energy. Built from mostly recycled materials, the turbines show promise in reducing energy costs while supporting long-term sustainability goals. Testing will determine their full potential, but the idea is gaining attention as a creative energy solution. It’s a reminder that the future of power can also be a stunning work of art in motion.
Hidden city: Hidden beneath the iconic rock formations of Cappadocia in central Turkey, lies Derinkuyu, a sprawling underground city built for survival. This ancient site, rediscovered by accident in 1963, contains a maze of tunnels, living spaces, and storage rooms that once sheltered thousands of people seeking refuge from invasions and persecution. Its chambers housed livestock, preserved food, and included places of worship, community areas, and secure hiding spaces. Stretching deep beneath the surface, it likely connected to other underground settlements, forming a vast hidden network. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, Derinkuyu continues to reveal the ingenuity and resilience of those who once called it home.
“Just be. Let your true nature emerge. Don’t disturb your mind with seeking.” - Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj
“Your heart often knows things before your mind does.”
- Polly Adler
“Your heart often knows things before your mind does.”
- Polly Adler
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
Rotary Nanaimo Book Sale: Held at Nanaimo North Town Centre, March 21- 30, mall hours. Thousands of quality books for sale!
Attention Boaters! Did you know that flares manufactured in the year 2021 will be expiring this year? Canboat-Nanaimo will be collecting expired flares Sat., March 29, 10am-3pm, at the Harbour Chandler at 35 Esplanade.
Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy: Performing ‘Four on the Floor’ tour on Sunday, March 30, 7:30pm. Bursting onto the music scene with exuberant youthful mastery, their two eldest children will join their parents for a night of musical magic at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan.
Amalgameighters Square Dance Club 60th Anniversary: All dancers, past & present are invited to Nanoose Place, 2925 NW Bay Rd., March 30, 1:30-4pm as we celebrate 60 years of friendship & fun.
Frog Belly Rat Bone: A small musical for children ages 5 through 12. March 30, 2pm, Malaspina Theatre., Nanaimo. Tickets available at www.TheatreOne.ca
Indoor Garage Sale: April 4 & 5, 9am to 1pm at St Philip-by-the-Sea Church, 7113 Lantzville Rd. On Sat., fill-a-bag-for-$5. Proceeds support local charities. Info: www.stphiliplantzville.ca
2025 Pacific Brant Carving, Woodworking & Art Show: Held April 5 & 6 at the Qualicum Civic Centre. A celebration of nature through visual arts, wood carving & general woodwork. There will be an adjudicated competition, door prizes, raffle, sales tables & more. More info: thebrant.ca
Secure Document Shredding: Hosted by Rotary Club of Lantzville on Sat., April 5, 10am-1pm in Woodgrove parking lot. Suggested donation $15/bankers box. Credit & debit accepted. Proceeds to community events.
Annual Lions Free Admission Swim: Presented by Nanaimo Lions Club at the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, 1-2:30pm every Saturday starting April 5 & continuing to June 28. There will be no sessions on April 26, May 17, May 24 or June 21.
Chemainus Classical Concerts: Sasha Luchkov, piano on April 6, 2pm St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $30/$10. Reserved: $25/$23 Phone 250-748-8383.
Nanaimo Concert Band Spring Concert: ‘Love is in the air’ theme held April 6, 2:30pm at Port Theatre., Nanaimo. Tickets $20 & can be booked through www.porttheatre.com
Healing Gardens ~ The Power of the Garden for Healing: April 8, 7:30pm at Civic Centre, 747 Jones Ave. Guests $5 or yearly membership $15. E-transfer: QBGardenClub.membership@gmail.com
2025 Shen Yun! Magical performance from New York with live orchestra at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver from April 9 - 13. For tickets call 1-877-663-7469 or visit: ShenYun.com/Van
A Safe Place to Talk About Death ~ Café: Thursday, April 10, 7pm at AV Hospice Office, 2579 10th Ave., Port Alberni. A safe space to drink tea, eat cake & talk about death & related issues. Everyone welcome.
Egg-Stravagant Easter Market: Sat., April 12, 10am-3pm at Lighthouse Community Centre, 240 Lions Way, Qualicum. Come meet Stitch the Llama & get a free hug. Selfies between 1-2pm.
Parksville Lawn Bowling Club Massive Garage Sale: April 12, 8am-2pm. 149 E. Stanford., Parksville. Something for everyone.
Tea, Art Show & Sale: Come celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Warmland Calligraphers. April 12, 11am-4pm at St. Peter Quamichan Church Hall, 5800 Church Road, North Cowichan.
Ukrainian Easter Bazaar: April 12, 11 am-3pm at 4017 Victoria Ave. Selling Ukrainian hot & frozen foods, clothing, novelties & more.
South Wellington Heritage Day: Sunday, April 13, 12-4pm, 1555 Morden Road. Free event, everyone welcome.
Film Fest Winter 2025 Film Series: Sunday, April 27, 5pm ‘So Surreal: Behind the Mask’. Single film tickets are $15 or series pass $55 & available at Alberni Valley Museum. All films showing at the Paramount Theatre. For more info, call 250-720-2863.
Black Ty Gala - An Evening on Broadway: Held Saturday, May 24. A fundraising Gala to benefit Ty Watson House, Port Alberni. Dinner catered by the Starboard Grill, Live & Silent Auctions, music & more. Dress code is cocktail to black tie. Tickets $150 & available online at albernihospice.ca Also at Jim’s Clothes Closet or the AV Hospice Office.
Veterans Housing Support Program: John Howard Society helps Canadian Veterans & former RCMP Officers with safe, stable housing. Call 250-386-3428; veterans@jhsvic.ca or www.jhsvic.ca
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.
Cedar Heritage Centre Rentals: A community space ideal for meetings, workshops, small parties, health & wellness classes, or medium size gatherings. For rental inquiries, call 778-674-0466 or email: facilitybookings@rdn.bc.ca (mention Coffee News to save $20 off rentals)
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
Do You or Someone You Love Need to Travel to receive cancer treatment? You may qualify for support through our Cancer Travel & Accommodation Services program. Visit cancer.ca/CTAAS, call 1-888-939-3333 or email BCTravelFund@cancer.ca to talk to us about your options.
Cowichan Valley Sea Cadets now recruiting for youth 12-18, meeting Tuesdays 6-9pm, 6722 Beaumont Rd in Maple Bay. Friendships, on-water skills, citizenship, fitness, leadership & more, all for free. 100sea@cadets.gc.ca
14th Annual Lions Free Skate presented by Nanaimo Lions Club. The sessions are scheduled every Sunday at the Frank Crane Arena, 12-1:30pm until March 23, 2025. Admission & skate rentals are free.
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society wants to hear from residents about equity, diversity and inclusion in Nanaimo. To learn more and complete the survey, visit: cvims.org
Register Now for Ecole Publique Francophone: Ecole des Cascades, 1951 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. For info, call 250-714-0761 or in Duncan at Ecole des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Cowichan Valley Probus Club invites any retired or nearly retired to our meetings at the Arbutus Golf Club on 1st Tuesday of the month, 10am. Visit: cowichanvalleyprobusclub.ca or call 250-746-1744 for details.
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. Glaciers can be found on mountains near the equator - T/F?
2. Who wrote the play Othello?
3. Which city has the most restaurants per capita in Canada?
4. What type of animal is a nightjar?
5. A funambulist is a tightrope walker, shell collector, or dog trainer?
2. Who wrote the play Othello?
3. Which city has the most restaurants per capita in Canada?
4. What type of animal is a nightjar?
5. A funambulist is a tightrope walker, shell collector, or dog trainer?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Neptune begins to settle into Aries. Its effect may be spiritual and idealistic, or confused and deluded. Be conscious of how it affects your sense of self and ego. Lucky numbers: 10, 16, 26, 27, 33, 43.
You may experience a sudden or unexpected shift this week. Resist a temptation to think the change will have a negative effect. How might you reframe your thoughts? Lucky numbers: 1, 2, 15, 16, 40, 48.
Last week’s pattern of receiving information on potential opportunities may continue. Evaluate them carefully and consider waiting before making your final choice. Lucky numbers: 4, 8, 13, 22, 24, 33.
As the weekend approaches, your emotions may be soft and pliable. If you can, gather those you love close to you. Regardless, take a moment to relax and recharge. Lucky numbers: 11, 12, 28, 29, 36, 40.
Neptune will be traveling through Aries for the next 14 years. As it progresses, you may find that your spiritual aspirations become a more important focus for your efforts. Lucky numbers: 1, 3, 5, 17, 26, 48.
Is an old karmic pattern causing ongoing issues for you? Consider what steps you might need to take about it. The opportunities for change may come to a close soon. Lucky numbers: 16, 18, 20, 27, 36, 41.
This week Neptune begins to settle into Aries. If you feel a stalemate in some area of your life, understand how Neptune is affecting it and how to address it positively. Lucky numbers: 7, 13, 16, 34, 39, 46.
Do you need to feel more grounded right now? You are in luck, as the energy at the beginning of the week might be able to help stabilize your intuitive insights. Lucky numbers: 12, 14, 18, 21, 29, 36.
At midweek, you might find yourself overwhelmed by seeming to have too many options to choose from. Consider selecting the one that most aligns with your heart. Lucky numbers: 9, 15, 16, 24, 25, 31.
You may find that your normal ambition level is flagging at week’s end. While it could return soon, this might be an opportunity to find pleasure in doing nothing. Lucky numbers: 1, 9, 13, 14, 37, 44.
Neptune moving through Aries may provide an energy boost to manifesting your humanitarian goals. Be careful of getting lost in the idea of an unattainable utopia. Lucky numbers: 6, 9, 22, 32, 42, 43.
Is there some karmic lesson that you need to finally complete? A combination of your hard work, plus recruiting allies to aid you, could help you get to the finish line. Lucky numbers: 3, 12, 27, 39, 43, 48.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Pisces winners with the luckiest number being 3.
Laugh it off: A study reveals that laughing can actually burn calories. Ten to 15 minutes of laughter could help burn up to 40 calories, adding up to a few lost pounds per year. It’s no replacement for a workout, but every bit helps.
Green blood: Certain lizards in New Guinea have green blood due to the presence of a pigment called biliverdin. While this pigment is typically toxic to most animals, these lizards have adapted to it without harm.
Cheese craze: Canadians are the world’s biggest mac and cheese lovers, eating about 50% more than Americans each year. Some say that’s because the dish is affordable, quick, and easy, but who needs an excuse for cheesy pasta indulgence?
Fading flavours: If your favourite treats taste a bit duller lately, aging taste buds might be the reason. Over time, taste buds shrink, regenerate less, and gradually weaken, making sweet and salty flavours fade.
Whale whispers: Humpback whale calves “whisper” to their mothers. Research has shown that these young whales produce soft, quiet sounds, likely to communicate with their mothers without attracting predators, ensuring their safety in the vast ocean.
Which two words have the most letters in them? Post office.
When an ant saw an anteater, he bugged out.
Turtle to turtle: “Don’t you just love the sound of the rain on your roof?”
Ted: “I work the midnight shift as a short order cook.”
Ed: “That sounds like a fry-by-night occupation.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Needle. Needle who? Needle little homework help?
When an ant saw an anteater, he bugged out.
Turtle to turtle: “Don’t you just love the sound of the rain on your roof?”
Ted: “I work the midnight shift as a short order cook.”
Ed: “That sounds like a fry-by-night occupation.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Needle. Needle who? Needle little homework help?
Trivia Answers: 1. True 2. Shakespeare 3. Victoria, BC 4. Bird
5. Tightrope walker
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!
March 24 - 30, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Urban harvest: In Sweden, a groundbreaking solution places vertical farms inside supermarkets, offering a local, sustainable way to grow fresh produce. Developed by SweGreen, this system eliminates soil, using water and rockwool to cultivate crops efficiently. Each setup matches the yield of large-scale farmland while reducing transport emissions and extending shelf life. Customers witness greens like lettuce and herbs being grown and harvested on-site, blending transparency with freshness. Beyond supermarkets, restaurants and universities embrace this model for seasonal menus. SweGreen’s approach proves fields aren’t the only places where fresh ideas grow.
Accessible education: A thoughtfully designed school in Gandhinagar, India, offers visually impaired children an environment that promotes learning, independence, and exploration. Centred around a vibrant courtyard, the campus features classrooms with distinct layouts and natural lighting to aid navigation. Spaces for music, workshops, and outdoor activities create a dynamic and engaging learning atmosphere, while traditional rainwater harvesting and native greenery highlight sustainability and resilience. This innovative campus ensures that students can thrive academically and personally in harmony with their surroundings, proving that thoughtful design supports inclusion and lasting impact.
Smart conservation: Technology is reshaping conservation, with artificial intelligence stepping in to address critical environmental challenges. In the Amazon rainforest, drones silently monitor for illegal logging, and AI quickly processes the data to pinpoint threats. Conservationists combine satellite images with reports from local patrols to create detailed maps that protect vital ecosystems. Across the globe, AI analyzes wildlife photos, helping track elusive species like tigers and snow leopards, while assisting with efforts to combat poaching. From dense jungles to open oceans, AI offers new tools for preserving biodiversity. When it comes to saving nature, innovation is proving to be a powerful partner.
Humming noise: Apparently a more common problem than one would think, the market town of Omagh, Northern Ireland, has a mysterious sound that can be heard at night. The continuous hum or low-frequency drone sound started last fall, and causes some people to have trouble sleeping. But others are not bothered by it at all, and some people don’t even hear it. However, multiple people have complained so authorities are trying to find out what might be causing it. Possible causes include farm equipment, streetlights, and noises made by the wind. Enough towns around the world have reported similar problems that the phenomenon has been named the Worldwide Hum.
“Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go; they merely determine where you start.” - Nido Qubein
“To bring anything into your life, imagine that it’s already there.” - Richard Bach
“To bring anything into your life, imagine that it’s already there.” - Richard Bach
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
Rotary Nanaimo Book Sale: Held at Nanaimo North Town Centre, March 21- 30, mall hours. Thousands of quality books for sale!
Gerry Barnum in Concert: A Soulful Roots Original on March 22, 7pm, Cedar Room, 2020 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. Tix $25 on Eventbrite, $30 at Door.
Free Downsizing Seminar: Learn how to downsize your home using a step-by-step plan on Thurs., March 27, 1-3pm at Nanaimo Golf Club, 2800 Highland Blvd. To pre-register call 250-616-3641 or send an email to ian@ianthompsonrealestate.com
Attention Boaters! Did you know that flares manufactured in the year 2021 will be expiring this year? Canboat-Nanaimo will be collecting expired flares Sat., March 29, 10am-3pm, at the Harbour Chandler at 35 Esplanade.
Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy: Performing ‘Four on the Floor’ tour on Sunday, March 30, 7:30pm. Bursting onto the music scene with exuberant youthful mastery, their two eldest children will join their parents for a night of musical magic at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan.
Amalgameighters Square Dance Club 60th Anniversary: All dancers, past & present are invited to Nanoose Place, 2925 NW Bay Rd., March 30, 1:30-4pm as we celebrate 60 years of friendship & fun.
Frog Belly Rat Bone: A small musical for children ages 5 through 12. March 30, 2pm, Malaspina Theatre., Nanaimo. Tickets available at www.TheatreOne.ca
2025 Pacific Brant Carving, Woodworking & Art Show: Held April 5 & 6 at the Qualicum Civic Centre. A celebration of nature through visual arts, wood carving & general woodwork. There will be an adjudicated competition, door prizes, raffle, sales tables & more. More info: thebrant.ca
Annual Lions Free Admission Swim: Presented by Nanaimo Lions Club at the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, 1-2:30pm every Saturday starting April 5 & continuing to June 28. There will be no sessions on April 26, May 17, May 24 or June 21.
Chemainus Classical Concerts: Sasha Luchkov, piano on April 6, 2pm St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $30/$10. Reserved: $25/$23 Phone 250-748-8383.
Nanaimo Concert Band Spring Concert: ‘Love is in the air’ theme held April 6, 2:30pm at Port Theatre., Nanaimo. Tickets $20 & can be booked through www.porttheatre.com
Healing Gardens ~ The Power of the Garden for Healing: April 8, 7:30pm at Civic Centre, 747 Jones Ave. Guests $5 or yearly membership $15. E-transfer: QBGardenClub.membership@gmail.com
2025 Shen Yun! Magical performance from New York with live orchestra at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver from April 9 - 13. For tickets call 1-877-663-7469 or visit: ShenYun.com/Van
A Safe Place to Talk About Death ~ Café: Thursday, April 10, 7pm at AV Hospice Office, 2579 10th Ave., Port Alberni. A safe space to drink tea, eat cake & talk about death & related issues. Everyone welcome.
Parksville Lawn Bowling Club Massive Garage Sale: April 12, 8am-2pm. 149 E. Stanford., Parksville. Something for everyone.
Tea, Art Show & Sale: Come celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Warmland Calligraphers. April 12, 11am-4pm at St. Peter Quamichan Church Hall, 5800 Church Road, North Cowichan.
Film Fest Winter 2025 Film Series: Sunday, April 27, 5pm ‘So Surreal: Behind the Mask’. Single film tickets are $15 or series pass $55 & available at Alberni Valley Museum. All films showing at the Paramount Theatre. For more info, call 250-720-2863.
Black Ty Gala - An Evening on Broadway: Held Saturday, May 24. A fundraising Gala to benefit Ty Watson House, Port Alberni. Dinner catered by the Starboard Grill, Live & Silent Auctions, music & more. Dress code is cocktail to black tie. Tickets $150 & available online at albernihospice.ca Also at Jim’s Clothes Closet or the AV Hospice Office.
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.
Volunteers Needed! Mount Arrowsmith Salvation Army needs help for food bank, thrift stores & soup kitchen. Please contact the coordinator at 250-586-6520 or email
: mountarrowsmith.volunteers@salvationarmy.ca
Cedar Heritage Centre Rentals: A community space ideal for meetings, workshops, small parties, health & wellness classes, or medium size gatherings. For rental inquiries, call 778-674-0466 or email: facilitybookings@rdn.bc.ca (mention Coffee News to save $20 off rentals)
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
Do You or Someone You Love Need to Travel to receive cancer treatment? You may qualify for support through our Cancer Travel & Accommodation Services program. Visit cancer.ca/CTAAS, call 1-888-939-3333 or email BCTravelFund@cancer.ca to talk to us about your options.
Cowichan Valley Sea Cadets now recruiting for youth 12-18, meeting Tuesdays 6-9pm, 6722 Beaumont Rd in Maple Bay. Friendships, on-water skills, citizenship, fitness, leadership & more, all for free. 100sea@cadets.gc.ca
14th Annual Lions Free Skate presented by Nanaimo Lions Club. The sessions are scheduled every Sunday at the Frank Crane Arena, 12-1:30pm until March 23, 2025. Admission & skate rentals are free.
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society wants to hear from residents about equity, diversity and inclusion in Nanaimo. To learn more and complete the survey, visit: cvims.org
Register Now for Ecole Publique Francophone: Ecole des Cascades, 1951 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. For info, call 250-714-0761 or in Duncan at Ecole des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Cowichan Valley Probus Club invites any retired or nearly retired to our meetings at the Arbutus Golf Club on 1st Tuesday of the month, 10am. Visit: cowichanvalleyprobusclub.ca or call 250-746-1744 for details.
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 the capital of Paraguay?
2. Entertainer Charlie Chaplin wore this type of hat.
3. This is the tallest member of the grass family.
4. A Summer Olympics basketball medal was first awarded in 1936, 1950, or 1980?
5. Before erasers, soap was used to remove pencil marks - T/F?
2. Entertainer Charlie Chaplin wore this type of hat.
3. This is the tallest member of the grass family.
4. A Summer Olympics basketball medal was first awarded in 1936, 1950, or 1980?
5. Before erasers, soap was used to remove pencil marks - T/F?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Over time, this moment may turn out to be a very critical one for Aries. A solar eclipse heralds endings and beginnings. And Neptune is moving into Aries for 14 years. Lucky numbers: 2, 4, 16, 27, 32, 35.
Sorting out what is real and what is not real may be difficult at the end of the week. While this may be anxiety-provoking, try to take a deep breath. It could soon pass. Lucky numbers: 3, 4, 5, 36, 43, 47.
You may receive information at week’s end about a potential new beginning for you. Examine it carefully, but waiting a bit may be best, before finalizing a decision. Lucky numbers: 10, 12, 23, 32, 36, 40.
Neptune moves into Aries until 2039, likely bringing challenges for Cancers. Navigating this process requires flexibility and a willingness to make needed changes. Lucky numbers: 8, 9, 23, 26, 29, 48.
Your head and heart may be in a stalemate at the start of the week. How might you be able to focus on the needs of others? Doing so could help you bridge the gap. Lucky numbers: 4, 5, 13, 16, 20, 29.
Neptune has been in Pisces for the last 14 years, which may have caused periods of challenge for you. As Neptune moves into Aries, you could experience a sense of relief. Lucky numbers: 1, 18, 31, 36, 37, 48.
For the next 14 years, Libras will be dancing with Neptune, the planet of idealism and spiritual aspiration, as well as confusion and delusion. More dynamics will unfold. Lucky numbers: 5, 6, 10, 22, 30, 40.
Your intuitive ability may become obscured at week’s end. Don’t fret. It might return in a few days. In the meantime, focus on practical matters that may need attention. Lucky numbers: 9, 13, 15, 20, 28, 36.
Your natural optimism may get a jumpstart at the end of the week. Even if you are eager to initiate a change, try taking a step back and waiting for a little bit. Lucky numbers: 7, 12, 14, 25, 30, 39.
Neptune moves into Aries until 2039. Capricorns tend to resist needed change unless they see the benefit in it. What part of your life would benefit from such a change? Lucky numbers: 17, 28, 38, 41, 46, 48.
The start of the week may be a good time to set new intentions. What might you need to end and what to begin? How could you communicate what you need to others? Lucky numbers: 12, 18, 20, 39, 45, 46.
You may have a sense of urgency as Neptune moves into Aries. You might have one more chance to initiate change when it briefly returns to Pisces later this year. Lucky numbers: 14, 18, 21, 27, 28, 32.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Aquarius winners with the luckiest number being 39.
Circle steps: Without visual cues, humans struggle to walk in a straight line. Blindfolded, people tend to walk in circles, a result of small, natural differences in how our bodies move. This shows how much we rely on vision to stay on course.
Leg legacy: Mexican general Santa Anna lost his leg in battle, only to have it buried with full military honours years later. A grand farewell fit for a fallen hero, the ceremony included cannon salutes and heartfelt speeches.
Career shuffle: Most people don’t stick to one career forever. Research suggests the average person changes careers three to seven times, often seeking better opportunities, personal growth, or simply a fresh start in a new field.
Clear solution: Cellophane was born from an accidental wine spill. After witnessing the mess in a restaurant, Swiss chemist Jacques Brandenberger set out to invent a clear, waterproof film, leading to a creation that would revolutionize packaging forever.
Snail snooze: Snails adjust their sleep patterns to match the weather, slowing down in extreme temperatures and keeping a steady rhythm when conditions are mild. Researchers found that sleeping snails remain deeply relaxed, unfazed by their surroundings.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Canoe. Canoe who? Canoe come out and play?
Why did the cat fear the tree? Because of its bark.
Gossip seems to travel faster over the sour grapevine.
Sorcerer: “How do you make a witch faint?”
Magician: “Use a dizzy spell.”
If athletes get athlete’s foot, what do astronauts get?
Missile toe!
Why did the cat fear the tree? Because of its bark.
Gossip seems to travel faster over the sour grapevine.
Sorcerer: “How do you make a witch faint?”
Magician: “Use a dizzy spell.”
If athletes get athlete’s foot, what do astronauts get?
Missile toe!
Trivia Answers: 1. Asunción 2. Bowler hat 3. Bamboo 4. 1936 5. False (bread)
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!
March 17 - 23, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Art multi-tasker: In Rotterdam, Netherlands, Rajacenna van Dam is turning heads by creating hyper-realistic portraits using all four of her limbs at once. Mastering a skill she developed to stay productive, she simultaneously draws intricate works with her hands and feet, completing up to six pieces at a time. Her inspirations often come from well-known public figures, from pop stars to royalty. Creating each work of art is a meticulous process, sometimes requiring over 40 hours to perfect. She attributes her ability to an unusually connected brain, enabling her to seamlessly switch focus between pieces. This technical artistry transforms multitasking into a captivating spectacle. Who says masterpieces need just one pair of hands?
Oil survivor: In the La Brea Tar Pits near Los Angeles, California (U.S.), the petroleum fly has adapted to thrive in a place that traps and kills countless other creatures. These tiny flies are the only species to develop in toxic petroleum, calling this natural asphalt home. The larvae feed on trapped insects and arthropods, all while consuming petroleum without harm. Their translucent bodies reveal ingested oil passing harmlessly through. Even extreme conditions, like high temperatures or chemical exposure, fail to faze them. The asphalt doubles as a moisturizer, protecting their bodies from drying out in the sun. These resilient insects prove that life can thrive in the most unexpected places.
Quake resilience: In earthquake-prone Japan, skyscrapers are engineered to move with the earth, making them exceptionally safe. Built along the Pacific Ring of Fire, these high-rises withstand frequent quakes without sustaining damage or collapsing. During rare, extreme events like the 2011 Tohoku Earthquake, their design prioritizes protecting lives over structural perfection. Flexible engineering allows the buildings to sway rather than resist, minimizing the risk of catastrophe. The striking skyscrapers of Tokyo and Osaka may seem immovable, but their hidden adaptability is their ability not just to stand firm, but to be flexible when necessary.
Storm bringer: Tlaloc, an influential deity in Mesoamerican mythology, embodies the dual power of water. As the Aztec god of rain, lakes, fertility, and agriculture, he controlled life-sustaining rains while wielding deadly thunder and hail when angered. Farmers revered him for nourishing crops, and his domain extended to overseeing the Third Sun, a water-dominated world in Aztec cosmology. Tlaloc’s origins predate the Aztecs; earlier cultures like the Maya and Zapotec worshipped Chaac and Cocijo, their versions of him. His image, often depicted with goggle eyes, fanged teeth, and vivid symbolism, reflected water’s vital yet unpredictable role in survival.
“You cannot imitate somebody else’s journey and still be true to yourself.”
- Jon Kabat-Zinn
“Nobody deserves your tears. But whoever deserves them will not make you cry.” - Gabriel García Márquez
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
Gala Fundraiser ~ A Night Under the Stars: March 15, 5:30pm at Vancouver Island Conference Centre. Tickets $75 & include buffet dinner, complimentary drink & entry into door prize raffle. Proceeds go to building a new inclusive playground at Bayview Elementary. For more information: bayview.pac.nanaimo@gmail.com or 250-754-3231
Knox Presents a St. Paddy’s Celebration: Tiller’s Folly/Joel Hanna/The O’Brien Dancers on Sun., March 16, 2:30pm. Tickets $40 each. Visit: www.kucparksville.ca
Film Fest Winter 2025 Film Series: Sunday, March 16, 5pm is ‘All We Imagine As Light’; Sunday, April 27, 5pm ‘So Surreal: Behind the Mask’. Single film tickets are $15 or series pass $55 & available at Alberni Valley Museum. All films showing at the Paramount Theatre. For more info, call 250-720-2863.
Free Advance Care Planning Workshop: Presented by Alberni Hospice on Tues., March 18, 6-8pm. This session will offer valuable insights into making informed choices regarding your healthcare & your end-of-life preferences. Participate in meaningful discussions & ask important questions about your intentions for the future. Seating is limited, please register: 250-723-4478 or info@albernihospice.ca
Rotary Nanaimo Book Sale: Held at Nanaimo North Town Centre, March 21- 30, mall hours. Thousands of quality books for sale!
Gerry Barnum in Concert: A Soulful Roots Original on March 22, 7pm, Cedar Room, 2020 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. Tix $25 on Eventbrite, $30 at Door.
Free Downsizing Seminar: Learn how to downsize your home using a step-by-step plan on Thurs., March 27, 1-3pm at Nanaimo Golf Club, 2800 Highland Blvd. To pre-register call 250-616-3641 or send an email to ian@ianthompsonrealestate.com
Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy: Performing ‘Four on the Floor’ tour on Sunday, March 30, 7:30pm. Bursting onto the music scene with exuberant youthful mastery, their two eldest children will join their parents for a night of musical magic at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan.
Amalgameighters Square Dance Club 60th Anniversary: All dancers, past & present are invited to Nanoose Place, 2925 NW Bay Rd., March 30, 1:30-4pm as we celebrate 60 years of friendship & fun.
Frog Belly Rat Bone: A small musical for children ages 5 through 12. March 30, 2pm, Malaspina Theatre., Nanaimo. Tickets available at www.TheatreOne.ca
2025 Pacific Brant Carving, Woodworking & Art Show: Held April 5 & 6 at the Qualicum Civic Centre. A celebration of nature through visual arts, wood carving & general woodwork. There will be an adjudicated competition, door prizes, raffle, sales tables & more. More info: thebrant.ca
Nanaimo Concert Band Spring Concert: ‘Love is in the air’ theme held April 6, 2:30pm at Port Theatre., Nanaimo. Tickets $20 & can be booked through www.porttheatre.com
2025 Shen Yun! Magical performance from New York with live orchestra at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver from April 9 - 13. For tickets call 1-877-663-7469 or visit: ShenYun.com/Van
A Safe Place to Talk About Death ~ Café: Thursday, April 10, 7pm at AV Hospice Office, 2579 10th Ave., Port Alberni. A safe space to drink tea, eat cake & talk about death & related issues. Everyone welcome.
Parksville Lawn Bowling Club Massive Garage Sale: April 12, 8am-2pm. 149 E. Stanford., Parksville. Something for everyone.
Tea, Art Show & Sale: Come celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Warmland Calligraphers. April 12, 11am-4pm at St. Peter Quamichan Church Hall, 5800 Church Road, North Cowichan.
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.
Volunteers Needed! Mount Arrowsmith Salvation Army needs help for food bank, thrift stores & soup kitchen. Please contact the coordinator at 250-586-6520 or email: mountarrowsmith.volunteers@salvationarmy.ca
Cedar Heritage Centre Rentals: A community space ideal for meetings, workshops, small parties, health & wellness classes, or medium size gatherings. For rental inquiries, call 778-674-0466 or email: facilitybookings@rdn.bc.ca (mention Coffee News to save $20 off rentals)
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
Do You or Someone You Love Need to Travel to receive cancer treatment? You may qualify for support through our Cancer Travel & Accommodation Services program. Visit cancer.ca/CTAAS, call 1-888-939-3333 or email BCTravelFund@cancer.ca to talk to us about your options.
Cowichan Valley Sea Cadets now recruiting for youth 12-18, meeting Tuesdays 6-9pm, 6722 Beaumont Rd in Maple Bay. Friendships, on-water skills, citizenship, fitness, leadership & more, all for free. 100sea@cadets.gc.ca
14th Annual Lions Free Skate presented by Nanaimo Lions Club. The sessions are scheduled every Sunday at the Frank Crane Arena, 12-1:30pm until March 23, 2025. Admission & skate rentals are free.
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society wants to hear from residents about equity, diversity and inclusion in Nanaimo. To learn more and complete the survey, visit: cvims.org
Register Now for Ecole Publique Francophone: Ecole des Cascades, 1951 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. For info, call 250-714-0761 or in Duncan at Ecole des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Cowichan Valley Probus Club invites any retired or nearly retired to our meetings at the Arbutus Golf Club on 1st Tuesday of the month, 10am. Visit: cowichanvalleyprobusclub.ca or call 250-746-1744 for details.
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 turtle have teeth?
2. Roman Emperor Hadrian built this 80-mile structure in Britain.
3. In what year was the iPod introduced?
4. Mt. Fansipan is the highest point in Vietnam - T/F?
5. Georges Braque and _____ pioneered the Cubism artistic movement.
2. Roman Emperor Hadrian built this 80-mile structure in Britain.
3. In what year was the iPod introduced?
4. Mt. Fansipan is the highest point in Vietnam - T/F?
5. Georges Braque and _____ pioneered the Cubism artistic movement.
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Your birthday month is a good time to set goals for the next year. Is there something that worked well for you last year? How might you capitalize on it right now? Lucky numbers: 16, 20, 24, 39, 40, 47.
The next month’s energy may push you to move more quickly than you are comfortable with. Instead of resisting this dynamic, might you expand your comfort zone? Lucky numbers: 15, 17, 18, 21, 22, 41.
Your mind may be on overdrive for the next month. If you come up with a potentially good idea, examine it carefully, but you might want to wait to act until next month. Lucky numbers: 2, 6, 7, 13, 20, 41.
Your feelings may be bruised this month by the aggressive way that others speak to you. Take a deep breath and resist any temptation to lash out against them. Lucky numbers: 14, 16, 26, 29, 34, 43.
Your confidence level may be high now, making this a good time to move forward on your endeavours. But avoid ego conflict with others that could disrupt progress. Lucky numbers: 3, 5, 8, 22, 25, 37.
Service is an important theme for Virgo, but you may be feeling at a crossroads about how to proceed. Analyzing the underlying cause of any stalemate might help. Lucky numbers: 1, 23, 24, 26, 31, 32.
You are approaching the halfway point since your birthday. Did you set new goals then? How are they progressing? What changes might be needed now to ensure success? Lucky numbers: 9, 12, 15, 21, 26, 44.
You may find your intuition is firing on all cylinders at the beginning of the week. How could you use it in a positive way? Be judicious in the advice you give others. Lucky numbers: 5, 13, 14, 23, 29, 42.
At midweek, your optimism level may be very high. How might you use this dynamic to move forward now? Resist the temptation to procrastinate any longer. Lucky numbers: 8, 11, 17, 19, 26, 31.
At week’s end, you may get a boost that allows you to work harder on completing projects. Just understand that others may not be able to keep up with your pace. Lucky numbers: 7, 13, 14, 19, 27, 40.
This week your sense of self may feel strongly connected to your humanitarian aspirations. Keep an eye out for an opportunity to manifest them for everyone’s benefit. Lucky numbers: 4, 5, 10, 40, 44, 48.
You may feel a strong sense of urgency to complete an endeavour, especially if it is related to an old karmic pattern. You might still have time, so keep working. Lucky numbers: 6, 23, 27, 30, 34, 36.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Gemini winners with the luckiest number being 7.
Taste feet: Butterflies rely on their feet to taste, using special leg sensors to detect sugars and nutrients in food. Female butterflies even taste leaves to find the perfect spots for laying their delicate eggs.
Volcanic giant: Mars is home to Olympus Mons, the largest volcano in the solar system. This colossal mountain, larger than the entire Hawaiian island chain, rises far above the Martian plains, dwarfing Earth’s mightiest volcanic peaks.
Grave warning: William Shakespeare’s tomb bears a fierce curse likely penned by the Bard himself, warning misfortune upon anyone who dares move his bones. This ominous message reveals his fear of eternal disturbance.
Fresh fix: Believe it or not, cucumbers can combat bad breath. This green veggie boosts saliva, helping to wash away bacteria that cause odours. It’s a natural, refreshing way to keep breath clean, straight from the produce aisle.
Cartoon roots: Snoop Dogg, the famous rapper, got his stage name from Peanuts, the classic comic strip and TV show. His mother affectionately called him “Snoopy” after the cartoon dog, and the name stuck, shaping the persona he is famous for today.
Madge: “Will you continue to read palms?”
Flora: “No, there’s no future in that line of work.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Fantasy. Fantasy who?
Fantasy-ing you here!
How do pigs say good-bye? With hogs and kisses.
Winter always seems like a long season; it starts in one year and ends in the next.
An optometrist fell into his lens grinder. He made a spectacle of himself.
Flora: “No, there’s no future in that line of work.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Fantasy. Fantasy who?
Fantasy-ing you here!
How do pigs say good-bye? With hogs and kisses.
Winter always seems like a long season; it starts in one year and ends in the next.
An optometrist fell into his lens grinder. He made a spectacle of himself.
Trivia Answers: 1. No 2. Wall 3. 2001 4. True 5. Pablo Picasso
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!
March 10 - 16, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Dynamic façade: The Al Bahar Towers in Abu Dhabi, U.A.E., feature a responsive shading system inspired by Islamic mashrabiya screens. Controlled by computers, hexagonal panels adjust to the sun’s position, reducing heat and glare while improving energy efficiency. The screens, positioned outside the buildings, allow for naturally tinted glass that enhances lighting and views while lowering air conditioning needs. Combining cultural heritage with advanced engineering, this design earned the towers an innovation award for sustainability. The façade shows how smart architecture blends tradition and technology to create beauty and function, even in harsh desert environments.
Sharing sheds: Men’s Sheds are transforming the humble shed into hubs of community, connection, and creativity. These shared spaces, supported by the United Kingdom Men’s Sheds Association, aim to combat loneliness by bringing men together to work on meaningful projects, share skills, and foster friendships. This year’s “Shed of the Year” finalists showcase diverse initiatives, from crafting public transportation solutions to repurposing old buildings into workshops. These efforts not only benefit the men involved but also strengthen local communities. With every project, the movement proves that shared purpose and teamwork can turn simple spaces into powerful tools for change.
Moss makeover: A Dutch startup company is using everyday moss to transform what is often dull-looking concrete into eco-friendly expanses of green with unique visual appeal. The company uses a “bioreceptive” concrete that encourages moss to thrive without damaging the walls or support beams of buildings, bridges, and other structures. Moss not only absorbs CO2 and purifies air and water, it also provides habitat for wildlife, shields surfaces from weather damage, requires minimal upkeep, and even discourages graffiti. Now refining its innovation by using recycled materials, the company is collaborating to “green-up” unique projects like wind turbine bases. Moss is the star of this simple solution that blends beauty and sustainability.
Pricey rice: Kinmemai Premium, crafted by Japan’s Toyo Rice Corporation, is the world’s most expensive rice, priced at ¥11,304 (JPY) per kilogram. Holding a Guinness World Record, this rice features hand-selected grains from top varieties, carefully flavour-aged for six months, creating a rich taste and a jewel-like appearance. Known for its superior nutritional profile, this rice contains six times the immune-boosting lipopolysaccharides of regular rice, along with more fibre and vitamins. Its unique polishing process removes only the waxy layer, making it rinse-free and easy to prepare. Kinmemai Premium proves that something as simple as rice can be a delicacy.
“If you’re not making mistakes, then you’re not making decisions.” - Catherine Cook
“The need for fellowship is as deep as the need for food.” - Joshua Liebman
“The need for fellowship is as deep as the need for food.” - Joshua Liebman
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
Echo Players Present ‘Deathtrap’ by Ira Levin: Held now until March 9 at The Village Theatre, 110W 2nd Ave., Qualicum. Wed - Sat, 7:30pm & Sunday matinee, 2pm. Tickets: echoplayers.ca or 250-752-3522
Port Alberni Annual Rock & Gem Show: Vendors on upper & lower floors of the Athletic Hall, 3727 Roger St., on Saturday, March 8, 10am-5pm & Sunday, March 9, 10am-4pm. Vendors, demos, displays & kids korner. Admission $3. Children under 12 are free with an adult. For more info, contact Ron at 250-723-4324.
Mid Island Floral Art Club Meeting: ‘Bulbs into Beauty’ demos & workshop, March 13, 2pm at St Stephen’s church hall, 150 Village Way, QB. Guest $6. Info Joanne 250-757-8969.
Death Café: Held Thursday, March 13, 7pm at AV Hospice Office, 2579 10th Ave., Port Alberni. A safe space to drink tea, eat cake and talk about death and related issues. Everyone welcome.
Comedy Misfits Stand Up Tour are coming this spring to Port Alberni for a night full of laughs on March 14, 7pm at Westwind Pub. 19+. Tix $20 in advance at WW or $25 at door.
Gala Fundraiser ~ A Night Under the Stars: March 15, 5:30pm at Vancouver Island Conference Centre. Tickets $75 & include buffet dinner, complimentary drink & entry into door prize raffle. Proceeds go to building a new inclusive playground at Bayview Elementary. For more information: bayview.pac.nanaimo@gmail.com or 250-754-3231
Knox Presents a St. Paddy’s Celebration: Tiller’s Folly/Joel Hanna/The O’Brien Dancers on Sun., March 16, 2:30pm. Tickets $40 each. Visit: www.kucparksville.ca
Free Advance Care Planning Workshop: Presented by Alberni Hospice on Tues., March 18, 6-8pm. This session will offer valuable insights into making informed choices regarding your healthcare & your end-of-life preferences. Participate in meaningful discussions & ask important questions about your intentions for the future. Seating is limited, please register: 250-723-4478 or info@albernihospice.ca
Free Downsizing Seminar: Learn how to downsize your home using a step-by-step plan on Thurs., March 27, 1-3pm at Nanaimo Golf Club, 2800 Highland Blvd. To pre-register call 250-616-3641 or send an email to ian@ianthompsonrealestate.com
Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy: Performing ‘Four on the Floor’ tour on Sunday, March 30, 7:30pm. Bursting onto the music scene with exuberant youthful mastery, their two eldest children will join their parents for a night of musical magic at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan.
Amalgameighters Square Dance Club 60th Anniversary: All dancers, past & present are invited to Nanoose Place, 2925 NW Bay Rd., March 30, 1:30-4pm as we celebrate 60 years of friendship & fun.
2025 Pacific Brant Carving, Woodworking & Art Show: Held April 5 & 6 at the Qualicum Civic Centre. A celebration of nature through visual arts, wood carving & general woodwork. There will be an adjudicated competition, door prizes, raffle, sales tables & more. More info: thebrant.ca
2025 Shen Yun! Magical performance from New York with live orchestra at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver from April 9 - 13. For tickets call 1-877-663-7469 or visit: ShenYun.com/Van
Film Fest Winter 2025 Film Series: Sunday, March 16, 5pm is ‘All We Imagine As Light’; Sunday, April 27, 5pm ‘So Surreal: Behind the Mask’. Single film tickets are $15 or series pass $55 & available at Alberni Valley Museum. All films showing at the Paramount Theatre. For more info, call 250-720-2863.
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.
Volunteers Needed! Mount Arrowsmith Salvation Army needs help for food bank, thrift stores & soup kitchen. Please contact the coordinator at 250-586-6520 or email: mountarrowsmith.volunteers@salvationarmy.ca
Cedar Heritage Centre Rentals: A community space ideal for meetings, workshops, small parties, health & wellness classes, or medium size gatherings. For rental inquiries, call 778-674-0466 or email: facilitybookings@rdn.bc.ca (mention Coffee News to save $20 off rentals)
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
Do You or Someone You Love Need to Travel to receive cancer treatment? You may qualify for support through our Cancer Travel & Accommodation Services program. Visit cancer.ca/CTAAS, call 1-888-939-3333 or email BCTravelFund@cancer.ca to talk to us about your options.
Cowichan Valley Sea Cadets now recruiting for youth 12-18, meeting Tuesdays 6-9pm, 6722 Beaumont Rd in Maple Bay. Friendships, on-water skills, citizenship, fitness, leadership & more, all for free. 100sea@cadets.gc.ca
14th Annual Lions Free Skate presented by Nanaimo Lions Club. The sessions are scheduled every Sunday at the Frank Crane Arena, 12-1:30pm until March 23, 2025. Admission & skate rentals are free.
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society wants to hear from residents about equity, diversity and inclusion in Nanaimo. To learn more and complete the survey, visit: cvims.org
Register Now for Ecole Publique Francophone: Ecole des Cascades, 1951 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. For info, call 250-714-0761 or in Duncan at Ecole des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Cowichan Valley Probus Club invites any retired or nearly retired to our meetings at the Arbutus Golf Club on 1st Tuesday of the month, 10am. Visit: cowichanvalleyprobusclub.ca or call 250-746-1744 for details.
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 diamond carat measure weight, cut, or shine?
2. Aslan is an elephant in the Chronicles of Narnia - T/F?
3. Prague is the capital of what country?
4. This music form is a mix of samba and jazz.
5. Which part of the human body has the thinnest skin?
2. Aslan is an elephant in the Chronicles of Narnia - T/F?
3. Prague is the capital of what country?
4. This music form is a mix of samba and jazz.
5. Which part of the human body has the thinnest skin?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Did you acknowledge last week that you may need to deal with an old issue in your relationship? How are things going now? What might you need to do next? Lucky numbers: 11, 18, 19, 20, 22, 42.
The Taurus-born usually value stability. Midweek you may get an opportunity to shake things up. You might at least consider it, rather than automatically rejecting it. Lucky numbers: 1, 18, 23, 27, 30, 42.
For the next few weeks, you may feel that you are taking one step forward and two steps backward. Wait it out. The situation might return to normal soon. Lucky numbers: 8, 18, 22, 32, 43, 46.
Your ability to communicate with others may run into obstacles for the next few weeks. Be aware of this and minimize interactions, where you can, until this passes. Lucky numbers: 6, 8, 10, 21, 38, 42.
At the beginning of the week, your Leo energy may naturally attract others to you. So, if you need assistance, ask for it. But remember to be fair in your request. Lucky numbers: 9, 13, 17, 25, 29, 47.
This may be a good week to bring projects to completion and gain the results. Conversely, if there are ideas that are no longer viable, they should be pruned out. Lucky numbers: 5, 6, 8, 14, 20, 21.
Your tact and diplomacy may be highlighted at midweek. If others ask you to help bring a matter to a conclusion, you might want to seriously consider doing so. Lucky numbers: 12, 14, 29, 31, 38, 42.
What do you need to let go of? The energy this week encourages you to release what no longer serves you. Remember the phrase, “When one door closes, another opens.” Lucky numbers: 4, 6, 14, 17, 23, 27.
For the next few weeks, be careful in what you say, in order to avoid accidentally putting your foot in your mouth. Showing restraint now could benefit you later. Lucky numbers: 14, 17, 20, 24, 31, 40.
Midweek may be a good time to contemplate what is working in your life and what is not. What might you need to begin and what do you think you need to end? Lucky numbers: 3, 5, 16, 22, 44, 45.
Aquarians often focus on humanitarian causes, but have trouble connecting with individuals. This week may offer a chance to show a more heart-centred approach. Lucky numbers: 7, 13, 36, 41, 44, 46.
Completing a task may require a lot of hard work from you at midweek. While this may be frustrating now, the eventual outcome could be well worth the effort. Lucky numbers: 2, 6, 7, 10, 32, 35.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Leo winners with the luckiest number being 9.
Star steps: The famous celebrity footprints at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, California (U.S.), began by accident in 1927, when actress Norma Talmadge stepped into wet cement. Since then, this tradition has truly left its mark.
Knight’s honour: Maryland (U.S.) stands out with jousting as its official state sport. This medieval activity, complete with lances and charging horses, reflects the state’s unique historical pride and love for traditional competition.
Single-handed: Early mechanical clocks used just one hand to tell time. For centuries, tower clocks showed only the hour or quarter-hour, as daily life moved at a slower pace, and this simple design avoided confusion from extra hands.
Futon roll: Japanese police have a unique approach to handling aggression. Instead of force, officers often wrap unruly individuals in large futons, rolling them up like a burrito to safely transport them to the station for a cooldown.
Surprise comeback: After removal, tonsils can partially grow back if a bit of tissue remains behind. This leftover tissue has the potential to regenerate, although not necessarily to their original size.
Bartender to a brain: “I’m not serving you, you’re already out of your head.”
Census taker: “How many people work in your factory?”
Factory owner: “I’d say one out of 10.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Farmer. Farmer who? I hope I get a dog farmer birthday.
On the steps of the New York Public Library, a woman was reading between the lions.
How does a family of turnips travel across the country?
In Rutabagos.
Census taker: “How many people work in your factory?”
Factory owner: “I’d say one out of 10.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Farmer. Farmer who? I hope I get a dog farmer birthday.
On the steps of the New York Public Library, a woman was reading between the lions.
How does a family of turnips travel across the country?
In Rutabagos.
Trivia Answers: 1. Weight 2. False, a lion 3. Czech Republic 4. Bossa nova 5. Eyelid
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, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay & Victoria.
More areas coming soon!
March 3 - 9, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Radiation fungi: In the abandoned Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, the site of a catastrophic nuclear meltdown, an extraordinary black fungus has emerged as a survivor in extreme conditions. Discovered inside the damaged reactors, this organism absorbs radiation and converts it into energy, thriving where most life cannot. The Exclusion Zone, once evacuated after the 1986 disaster, has become a haven for wildlife and a hub for studying how nature adapts to high radiation. Scientists are fascinated by the fungus’s potential, not just for surviving radiation but for applications like protecting astronauts in space. In a place once defined by destruction, this discovery proves that life finds surprising ways to endure and even innovate.
Egg challenge: Harvard University medical student Nick Norwitz embarked on a bold experiment, consuming 720 eggs in one month to study their impact on cholesterol. Long linked to raising bad cholesterol, eggs have sparked debates among health experts, making this test intriguing. Norwitz maintained a diet of eggs, prepared in various styles, while tracking changes to his LDL, often called “bad cholesterol,” levels. Surprisingly, his cholesterol dropped, especially after adding carbohydrates following a ketogenic phase. The results suggest metabolic health and dietary context may matter more than specific foods. The experiment wasn’t just about numbers but about challenging assumptions in nutrition. Sometimes, breaking the rules means cracking a lot of eggs.
Tree feud: In Sheffield, England, a fir tree split in half during a neighbourhood dispute became an unusual tourist attraction. The issue began when overhanging branches caused bird droppings on a neighbour’s driveway. Attempts at compromise failed, leading one neighbour to hire a tree cutter to remove the encroaching branches, leaving the tree bizarrely halved. The spectacle gained attention, with people stopping to take photos and leaving reviews online. Years later, the neighbours remain at odds, and the tree’s peculiar look persists, due to either growth or trimming. Though born from a bitter feud, the tree now stands as a quirky landmark, proving that neighbourhood squabbles can leave lasting impressions.
Frozen labyrinth: Nestled in Zakopane, Poland, Snowlandia is home to a stunning ice maze that draws visitors from around the world. With walls crafted entirely from snow and ice with heights up to 2 metres (6.6 ft.), the maze spans an area equivalent to 15 tennis courts. Set against the backdrop of the Tatra National Park, its 1-kilometre (0.6-mi.) paths offer a thrilling challenge for adventurers. Guests enter through an ice castle featuring towers and medieval-style architecture, complete with panoramic mountain views. Along the way, they encounter intricate ice sculptures and even slide out of the maze for an icy finale. Snowlandia’s charm extends beyond the maze, with attractions like a mini zoo and a toboggan run adding to its frosty magic.
“It’s not what you’ve got, it’s what you use that makes a difference.” - Zig Ziglar
“Don’t look at your feet to see if you are doing it right. Just dance.”
- Anne Lamott
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
Back Beat Presents The Beach Boys Tribute: Let’s go surfin’! Held Saturday March 1, 7:30-9:30pm at the Theatre in ADSS, Port Alberni. This Multimedia event re-creates the Music & Vocal Harmonies of the Beach Boys live onstage! Tickets are on sale now & available through Eventbrite
Echo Players Present ‘Deathtrap’ by Ira Levin: Held now until March 9 at The Village Theatre, 110W 2nd Ave., Qualicum. Wed - Sat, 7:30pm & Sunday matinee, 2pm. Tickets: echoplayers.ca or 250-752-3522
World Day of Prayer: Friday, March 7, 2pm at Brechin United Church. Open to all, Wheelchair accessible, drop off at front door. Tropical Theme-Cook Islands.
Volunteer Nanaimo Monthly Market: March 8th, 11am-4pm, St. Andrews Presbyterian Church Hall, 4235 Departure Bay Rd. Free admission, parking. Local handmade unique gifts.
Port Alberni Annual Rock & Gem Show: Vendors on upper & lower floors of the Athletic Hall, 3727 Roger St., on Saturday, March 8, 10am-5pm & Sunday, March 9, 10am-4pm. Vendors, demos, displays & kids korner. Admission $3. Children under 12 are free with an adult. For more info, contact Ron at 250-723-4324.
Mid Island Floral Art Club Meeting: ‘Bulbs into Beauty’ demos & workshop, March 13, 2pm at St Stephen’s church hall, 150 Village Way, QB. Guest $6. Info Joanne 250-757-8969.
Comedy Misfits Stand Up Tour are coming this spring to Port Alberni for a night full of laughs on March 14, 7pm at Westwind Pub. 19+. Tix $20 in advance at WW or $25 at door.
Gala Fundraiser ~ A Night Under the Stars: March 15, 5:30pm at Vancouver Island Conference Centre. Tickets $75 & include buffet dinner, complimentary drink & entry into door prize raffle. Proceeds go to building a new inclusive playground at Bayview Elementary. For more information: bayview.pac.nanaimo@gmail.com or 250-754-3231
Knox Presents a St. Paddy’s Celebration: Tiller’s Folly/Joel Hanna/The O’Brien Dancers on Sun., March 16, 2:30pm. Tickets $40 each. Visit: www.kucparksville.ca
Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy: Performing ‘Four on the Floor’ tour on Sunday, March 30, 7:30pm. Bursting onto the music scene with exuberant youthful mastery, their two eldest children will join their parents for a night of musical magic at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan.
Amalgameighters Square Dance Club 60th Anniversary: All dancers, past & present are invited to Nanoose Place, 2925 NW Bay Rd., March 30, 1:30-4pm as we celebrate 60 years of friendship & fun.
2025 Shen Yun! Magical performance from New York with live orchestra at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver from April 9 - 13. For tickets call 1-877-663-7469 or visit: ShenYun.com/Van
Film Fest Winter 2025 Film Series: Sunday, March 16, 5pm is ‘All We Imagine As Light’; Sunday, April 27, 5pm ‘So Surreal: Behind the Mask’. Single film tickets are $15 or series pass $55 & available at Alberni Valley Museum. All films showing at the Paramount Theatre. For more info, call 250-720-2863.
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.
Volunteers Needed! Mount Arrowsmith Salvation Army needs help for food bank, thrift stores & soup kitchen. Please contact the coordinator at 250-586-6520 or email: mountarrowsmith.volunteers@salvationarmy.ca
Cedar Heritage Centre Rentals: A community space ideal for meetings, workshops, small parties, health & wellness classes, or medium size gatherings. For rental inquiries, call 778-674-0466 or email: facilitybookings@rdn.bc.ca (mention Coffee News to save $20 off rentals)
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
Do You or Someone You Love Need to Travel to receive cancer treatment? You may qualify for support through our Cancer Travel & Accommodation Services program. Visit cancer.ca/CTAAS, call 1-888-939-3333 or email BCTravelFund@cancer.ca to talk to us about your options.
Cowichan Valley Sea Cadets now recruiting for youth 12-18, meeting Tuesdays 6-9pm, 6722 Beaumont Rd in Maple Bay. Friendships, on-water skills, citizenship, fitness, leadership & more, all for free. 100sea@cadets.gc.ca
14th Annual Lions Free Skate presented by Nanaimo Lions Club. The sessions are scheduled every Sunday at the Frank Crane Arena, 12-1:30pm until March 23, 2025. Admission & skate rentals are free.
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society wants to hear from residents about equity, diversity and inclusion in Nanaimo. To learn more and complete the survey, visit: cvims.org
Register Now for Ecole Publique Francophone: Ecole des Cascades, 1951 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. For info, call 250-714-0761 or in Duncan at Ecole des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Cowichan Valley Probus Club invites any retired or nearly retired to our meetings at the Arbutus Golf Club on 1st Tuesday of the month, 10am. Visit: cowichanvalleyprobusclub.ca or call 250-746-1744 for details.
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. Coral is a living organism - T/F?
2. On shoes, a vamp is the top part or the bottom?
3. The paper wedding anniversary is the 1st, 10th, or 30th?
4. The West Indies are between the Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic Ocean, and the _____ Sea.
5. In the children’s books, what colour is Pippi Longstocking’s hair?
2. On shoes, a vamp is the top part or the bottom?
3. The paper wedding anniversary is the 1st, 10th, or 30th?
4. The West Indies are between the Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic Ocean, and the _____ Sea.
5. In the children’s books, what colour is Pippi Longstocking’s hair?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
For the next few weeks, you may be focused on your relationship, especially about an old issue. This may be a good time to discuss it but only after setting ground rules. Lucky numbers: 10, 11, 17, 26, 33, 46.
Did you receive insight last week about an idea that is worth pursuing? Early this week may be a good time to develop a well-grounded plan to implement that idea. Lucky numbers: 15, 22, 27, 34, 40, 43.
At midweek, you may be chatty with others and very busy. If things get overwhelming, try to take a deep breath and wait a couple of days for the overwhelm to pass. Lucky numbers: 4, 5, 13, 19, 33, 43.
Your intuition may very loudly call to you over the weekend. Carefully examine the information, but you may want to consider waiting until next week to act on it. Lucky numbers: 3, 4, 9, 12, 14, 19.
For the next few weeks, be careful not to put your foot in your mouth. However, if you do so, others should respond positively to a sincere apology on your part. Lucky numbers: 11, 13, 27, 32, 36, 42.
Virgos can sometimes procrastinate with the goal of making a “perfect” decision. This week’s energy may help you adjust to change this dynamic for a better balance. Lucky numbers: 1, 4, 16, 18, 35, 38.
Have you been simmering for a while about a relationship issue? If so, it may result in a stalemate now. Gently be honest with your partner about what you need. Lucky numbers: 8, 23, 26, 35, 40, 42.
Your intuitive insights can sometimes be difficult to handle. But at the start of the week, take a deep breath and approach the information with a more pragmatic attitude. Lucky numbers: 2, 7, 15, 19, 24, 44.
Sagittarians have a large heart and generous nature. These may be stymied at midweek, when your mind wants to overrule them. What can help break the stalemate? Lucky numbers: 5, 6, 7, 24, 31, 36.
You may find at week’s end that your head is in a stalemate with your heart. Are you able to find a way to bridge the gap between them? If not, try waiting a few days. Lucky numbers: 7, 13, 15, 18, 24, 31.
Important information may surface from your unconscious. The energy might support integrating these insights in a positive way. Resist the urge to let this dynamic pass. Lucky numbers: 6, 12, 14, 17, 29, 35.
Early this week, keep your eyes open for a potential new opportunity. But the chance may pass by if you don’t pay attention. Evaluate the pros and cons before deciding. Lucky numbers: 9, 11, 18, 28, 35, 44.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Taurus winners with the luckiest number being 27.
Glowing fungi: Over 60 mushroom species emit a natural glow in the dark. This bioluminescence results from a chemical reaction involving luciferin and luciferase, producing a captivating light show in forests worldwide.
Hiccup marathon: After a farming accident caused brain damage, Charles Osborne hiccupped nonstop for 68 years. Remarkably, he lived a full life, marrying twice, raising eight children, and becoming famous for his unrelenting condition.
Chimp co-host: In the 1950s, J. Fred Muggs, a lively chimpanzee, became an unexpected co-host of NBC’s Today Show. His playful on-screen antics charmed audiences, giving the show a fresh boost and making it a household favourite.
Space cache: There’s a geocache, which is a hidden container found using GPS, quietly sitting aboard the International Space Station. Placed by a space tourist, this unique geocache is still waiting to be logged, if you ever find yourself in orbit.
Daring crossing: Charles Blondin, “The Great Blondin,” became famous for crossing the Niagara River on a tightrope. With a camera strapped to his back, he once paused midway to snap a photo of the crowd, in an unforgettable balancing act.
A bestselling novel was said to be a plot of gold.
Did you hear about the 200 stolen mattresses? Police are springing into action.
Teacher: “According to Archimedes, what happens when a body is immersed in water?”
Student: “Usually the phone rings.”
Where do fish go on vacation? Finland.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Goose. Goose who? No, you goose who!
Did you hear about the 200 stolen mattresses? Police are springing into action.
Teacher: “According to Archimedes, what happens when a body is immersed in water?”
Student: “Usually the phone rings.”
Where do fish go on vacation? Finland.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Goose. Goose who? No, you goose who!
Trivia Answers: 1. True 2. Top 3. 1st 4. Caribbean 5. Red
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!
Feb 24 - Mar 2, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Seed safeguard: Hidden within a frozen mountain in Norway’s Svalbard archipelago, the Global Seed Vault protects the world’s agricultural future. This remote facility, often called the “doomsday vault,” stores over one million seeds of food crops worldwide, safeguarding them against threats like climate change, natural disasters, and conflicts. The vault’s subzero chambers ensure that seeds remain viable for generations, providing a backup for global seed banks. Located far from war and natural dangers, its design prioritizes security and long-term preservation. The facility’s strategic location and stable climate make it one of the safest storage sites on the planet.
Salt-powered solution: Harnessing the power of salt water, a Colombian innovation offers a game-changing light source for isolated areas without electricity. The WaterLight lantern transforms saline liquids into energy using ionization, ensuring reliable illumination in any weather. With just 500 millilitres of seawater, it provides continuous power while doubling as a phone charger. Its sleek, wooden cylindrical design allows easy refilling, making it both practical and eco-friendly for daily use. Originally designed for Colombia’s Wayúu community, this sustainable device showcases how creativity can address pressing energy challenges for those living off the grid.
Desert design: Inspired by the intricate beauty of desert roses, which are natural crystal formations made from sand and gypsum, the National Museum of Qatar reimagines nature in architectural form. The building features hundreds of interlocking discs that mimic the layered, petal-like crystals of the rose. These discs, some over 80 metres (262 ft.) wide, create a labyrinth of curved rooms, seamlessly blending with Qatar’s desert landscape where sand meets sea. At its heart lies a historic palace, embraced by the modern design like a treasure in a crystalline bloom. This architectural work not only captures the striking appearance of the desert rose but also its essence.
Brewing sustainability: In Barcelona, Spain, a unique coffee shop is redefining design by using furniture made from recycled coffee grounds. Crafted with material that is a blend of biodegradable polylactic acid and coffee grounds, the shop transforms waste into stunning, practical pieces. Counters and lamps, inspired by the flowing essence of coffee, display rich textures and natural shades that bring warmth to the space. Using cutting-edge 3D printing, the design showcases a commitment to sustainability by turning discarded coffee into stylish, functional furniture. This innovative project sets a bold standard for how creativity and eco-consciousness can go hand in hand.
“Because you’re alive, everything is possible.” - Thích Nhất Hạnh
“Remember that the most valuable antiques are dear old friends.”
- H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
Coldest Night of the Year 2025: A family friendly fundraising walk in support of local charities. Held Feb. 22, 4pm at Cowichan Community Centre, 2685 James St., Duncan. Registration & tickets: cnoy.org
Coldest Night of the Year 2025: A family friendly fundraising walk in support of local charities. Let’s change the tune for people experiencing hurt, hunger & homelessness... because it’s cold out there. Held Feb. 22, 4pm. Team up & walk with us. Registration & tickets: cnoy.org Presented by Port Alberni Safe Haven Society.
Coldest Night of the Year 2025: Family friendly fundraising walk in support of local charities. Held Feb. 22, 4pm. Team up & walk with us. Registration & tickets: cnoy.org/location/oceanside
Warm Aloha Hawaiian Music Concert & Stories: With Anela Kahiamoe on Feb. 22, 7pm, 2020 Estevan Road. Tickets: $25 at Eventbrite or $30 Door. Wear a Hawaiian shirt.
Knox United Church presents ‘The Pretzel Logic Orchestra, Steely Dan Tribute’ on Saturday, Feb. 22, 7pm. Tickets are $30. 345 Pym St., Parksville. Info: www.kucparksville.ca
QB Senior Ukulele Band Concert: Presented by St. Edmund’s Church on Sun., Feb. 23, 3pm at 407 Wembley Rd. Parksville. Tickets: $10/seat (children free).
Free Downsizing Seminar: Thur., Feb. 27, 1-3pm at Nanaimo Golf Club, 2800 Highland Blvd. Learn to downsize your home following a step by step plan. Guest speakers with valuable info. Pre-register: Call 250.616.3641 or ian@ianthompsonrealestate.com
Back Beat Presents The Beach Boys Tribute: Let’s go surfin’! Held Saturday March 1, 7:30-9:30pm at the Theatre in ADSS, Port Alberni. This Multimedia event re-creates the Music & Vocal Harmonies of the Beach Boys live onstage! Tickets are on sale now & available through Eventbrite
Echo Players Present ‘Deathtrap’ by Ira Levin: Held now until March 9 at The Village Theatre, 110W 2nd Ave., Qualicum. Wed - Sat, 7:30pm & Sunday matinee, 2pm. Tickets: echoplayers.ca or 250-752-3522
Port Alberni Annual Rock & Gem Show: Vendors on upper & lower floors of the Athletic Hall, 3727 Roger St., on Saturday, March 8, 10am-5pm & Sunday, March 9, 10am-4pm. Vendors, demos, displays & kids korner. Admission $3. Children under 12 are free with an adult. For more info, contact Ron at 250-723-4324.
Comedy Misfits Stand Up Tour are coming this spring to Port Alberni for a night full of laughs on March 14, 7pm at Westwind Pub. 19+. Tix $20 in advance at WW or $25 at door.
2025 Shen Yun! Magical performance from New York with live orchestra at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver from April 9 - 13. For tickets call 1-877-663-7469 or visit: ShenYun.com/Van
Film Fest Winter 2025 Film Series: Sunday, March 16, 5pm is ‘All We Imagine As Light’; Sunday, April 27, 5pm ‘So Surreal: Behind the Mask’. Single film tickets are $15 or series pass $55 & available at Alberni Valley Museum. All films showing at the Paramount Theatre. For more info, call 250-720-2863.
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.
Volunteers Needed! Mount Arrowsmith Salvation Army needs help for food bank, thrift stores & soup kitchen. Please contact the coordinator at 250-586-6520 or email: mountarrowsmith.volunteers@salvationarmy.ca
Cedar Heritage Centre Rentals: A community space ideal for meetings, workshops, small parties, health & wellness classes, or medium size gatherings. For rental inquiries, call 778-674-0466 or email: facilitybookings@rdn.bc.ca (mention Coffee News to save $20 off rentals)
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
Do You or Someone You Love Need to Travel to receive cancer treatment? You may qualify for support through our Cancer Travel & Accommodation Services program. Visit cancer.ca/CTAAS, call 1-888-939-3333 or email BCTravelFund@cancer.ca to talk to us about your options.
Cowichan Valley Sea Cadets now recruiting for youth 12-18, meeting Tuesdays 6-9pm, 6722 Beaumont Rd in Maple Bay. Friendships, on-water skills, citizenship, fitness, leadership & more, all for free. 100sea@cadets.gc.ca
14th Annual Lions Free Skate presented by Nanaimo Lions Club. The sessions are scheduled every Sunday at the Frank Crane Arena, 12-1:30pm until March 23, 2025. Admission & skate rentals are free.
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society wants to hear from residents about equity, diversity and inclusion in Nanaimo. To learn more and complete the survey, visit: cvims.org
Register Now for Ecole Publique Francophone: Ecole des Cascades, 1951 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. For info, call 250-714-0761 or in Duncan at Ecole des Cascades, 3039 Sprott Rd., Duncan. For info, call 250-737-4486.
Cowichan Valley Probus Club invites any retired or nearly retired to our meetings at the Arbutus Golf Club on 1st Tuesday of the month, 10am. Visit: cowichanvalleyprobusclub.ca or call 250-746-1744 for details.
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. In the Curious George children’s books, what colour is George’s friend’s hat?
2. How many eyes does a bee have?
3. A bunch of bananas is called a _____.
4. In Roman numerals, what does M represent?
5. The citizens of Rio de Janeiro are called Porteños, Janieros, or Cariocas?
2. How many eyes does a bee have?
3. A bunch of bananas is called a _____.
4. In Roman numerals, what does M represent?
5. The citizens of Rio de Janeiro are called Porteños, Janieros, or Cariocas?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
You may be tempted to act from an unconscious impulse at the end of the week. Sabotaging the situation could be easy. Try to take a deep breath before you decide. Lucky numbers: 5, 15, 21, 22, 28, 42.
A sudden or unexpected opportunity may be presented to you at midweek, perhaps emerging from an important conversation. So actively listen for this information. Lucky numbers: 7, 8, 18, 27, 30, 43.
Last week’s optimistic mindset may continue, bringing good opportunities. Be careful that your expanded enthusiasm doesn’t lead to an unnecessary conflict with others. Lucky numbers: 9, 11, 14, 22, 23, 27.
As the weekend approaches, you might feel fully in the flow of the universe. Carefully consider how to use this energy because it may dissipate in a few days. Lucky numbers: 10, 13, 15, 20, 46, 47.
If you are running into an obstacle to something you want, resist temptation to charge through it. Consider how to change the situation to help others, as well as yourself. Lucky numbers: 14, 18, 23, 26, 41, 46.
Virgos prioritize hard information over intuition. This week, reversing that equation may serve you better. Breaking out of your comfort zone can expand your tool set. Lucky numbers: 1, 7, 15, 17, 27, 29.
At the end of the week, you may find yourself in a stalemate of whether to prioritize your needs or the needs of others. Might you be able to find a compromise position? Lucky numbers: 8, 11, 17, 18, 31, 33.
Your intuition may feel a bit overwhelmed at week’s end. You might want to integrate these intuitive options into your plans, but wait a few days to act on them. Lucky numbers: 2, 4, 13, 20, 38, 44.
Since last summer, you may have been experiencing expansion, obstacles, or both in your life. This period could end in early June. What might you learn in the meantime? Lucky numbers: 11, 17, 24, 34, 35, 40.
The energy at week’s end may offer an opportunity to use a softer approach, to achieve something positive for you and others. Try expanding your comfort zone. Lucky numbers: 6, 8, 12, 24, 43, 47.
Are you feeling overwhelmed because you have taken on an endeavour that is too big to complete on your own? If so, acknowledge reality and look for allies to help. Lucky numbers: 4, 13, 14, 32, 35, 44.
If you focus on listening to your intuition this week, you may receive important information about what direction to head in. Then set a new intention now to achieve it. Lucky numbers: 3, 4, 16, 17, 25, 43.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Gemini winners with the luckiest number being 9.
Mirror mastery: Leonardo da Vinci’s ambidexterity allowed him to write with both hands at the same time. One hand wrote text in reverse while the other penned it normally, demonstrating his extraordinary coordination and unique skills.
Slow no-go: In California (U.S.), driving too slowly can get you ticketed. Under state law, vehicles moving below the normal flow of traffic must stay in the right lane and avoid blocking traffic unless it’s for safety or legal reasons.
Muppet mystery: Before becoming “Cookie Monster,” this beloved blue character was simply a snack-stealing Muppet who appeared in commercials. His love for cookies earned him the perfect name by the time he made it to Sesame Street.
Sky spotters: The U.S. Coast Guard once used trained pigeons to find people lost at sea. These feathered “recruits” excelled at spotting debris, often outperforming humans on their passes over search zones.
Brain power: Your brain hums with energy, constantly firing off messages like a high-speed network. Together, its neurons produce enough electricity to power a small lightbulb, keeping your thoughts and actions brilliantly illuminated.
Where did King Tut go to ease his back pain?
To the Cairo-practor.
My teacher reminds me of history. She’s always repeating herself.
Joe: “Why did you put your watch in the bank?”
Moe: “I’m trying to save time.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Pickle. Pickle who? Pickle little flower for your mother.
You couldn’t get me on the moon if it was the last place on earth.
To the Cairo-practor.
My teacher reminds me of history. She’s always repeating herself.
Joe: “Why did you put your watch in the bank?”
Moe: “I’m trying to save time.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Pickle. Pickle who? Pickle little flower for your mother.
You couldn’t get me on the moon if it was the last place on earth.
Trivia Answers: 1. Yellow 2. Five 3. Hand or stalk 4. 1000 5. Cariocas
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!
Feb 17 - 23, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Big boy: Romeo, a six-year-old Holstein steer, was declared the world’s tallest by Guinness World Records. The beast is 6 feet 4 inches (1.93 m) tall, and lives at Welcome Home Animal Sanctuary in Creswell, Oregon (U.S.). The previous record holder, a Massachusetts steer named Tommy, was 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 m) tall. Romeo consumes 100 pounds (45 kg) of hay each day, and enjoys apples and bananas as treats. A woman had rescued 10-day-old Romeo at a dairy farm and brought him to the sanctuary, where operators say the steer is a symbol of resilience and a reminder that acts of kindness can change the world.
Thirsty spirit: In the remote Ladakh region of India, a shrine along the Gata Loops has become an unusual landmark, covered in plastic water bottles left by travelers. The bottles are offerings to the Ghost of the Gata Loops, the spirit of a man who died there after being stranded without water during a snowstorm. Adventurers passing through the treacherous route leave bottles to appease the spirit, hoping to avoid bad luck. The shrine’s origins trace back to the death of a trucker’s assistant, whose ghost is said to appear, begging for water. The legend gained attention after a video explaining the shrine went viral, sparking a debate about the environmental impact of the plastic bottles littering the area.
Waterway bridge: Drivers in the picturesque Shiziguan scenic area of China’s Hubei Province can experience the thrill of crossing the Qingjiang River on a 400-metre (0.25-mi.) floating bridge. Supported by polyethylene floats, this impressive bridge sways gently beneath the vehicles, allowing for a smooth drive while surrounded by stunning nature views. The bridge’s innovative engineering uses technology to ensure safety and stability for both vehicles and pedestrians. Visitors come from far and wide, eager to see this marvel up close and take in the views while “driving on water.” Just remember, enjoying the scenery is great, but eyes on the road unless you fancy an unexpected dip!
Print connection: Blending digital convenience with the charm of print, a company called Famileo helps bridge generational gaps by transforming shared online messages and photos into monthly printed newspapers. These personalized gazettes, delivered to older relatives, provide a meaningful way to keep families connected, especially for those without internet access. Younger family members upload updates through the app, and elderly recipients enjoy the tactile joy of reading them in print. Famileo not only fosters a sense of belonging for older adults but also helps combat loneliness. Designed for collaboration, the idea lets families worldwide contribute, ensuring everyone remains part of the story, no matter the distance.
“You can’t be a resource for others unless you nourish yourself.”
- Alexandra Stoddard
“If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”
- Wayne Dyer
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
The ‘Paperboys’ presented by Knox United Church: Held Feb. 15, 2pm Feb. 15. A feel-good fusion of Celtic, folk, country & so much more! $35 from Eventbrite & Fireside Books, Parksville.
Film Fest Winter 2025 Film Series: Sunday, Feb. 16, 5pm is ‘Thelma’; Sunday, March 16, 5pm is ‘All We Imagine As Light’; Sunday, April 27, 5pm ‘So Surreal: Behind the Mask’. Single film tickets are $15 or series pass $55 & available at Alberni Valley Museum. All films showing at the Paramount Theatre. For more info, call 250-720-2863.
Nanaimo Quilters’ Guild’s next meeting Wed., Feb. 19, 1:30pm & 6:30 pm, Nanaimo Curling Club, 106 Wall St.
Echo Players Present ‘Deathtrap’ by Ira Levin: Held Feb. 20 - March 9 at The Village Theatre, 110W 2nd Ave., Qualicum. Wed - Sat, 7:30pm & Sunday matinee, 2pm. Tickets: echoplayers.ca or 250-752-3522
Coldest Night of the Year 2025: A family friendly fundraising walk in support of local charities. Held Feb. 22, 4pm at Cowichan Community Centre, 2685 James St., Duncan. Registration & tickets: cnoy.org
Coldest Night of the Year 2025: A family friendly fundraising walk in support of local charities. Let’s change the tune for people experiencing hurt, hunger & homelessness... because it’s cold out there. Held Feb. 22, 4pm. Team up & walk with us. Registration & tickets: cnoy.org Presented by Port Alberni Safe Haven Society.
Coldest Night of the Year 2025: Family friendly fundraising walk in support of local charities. Held Feb. 22, 4pm. Team up & walk with us. Registration & tickets: cnoy.org/location/oceanside
Warm Aloha Hawaiian Music Concert & Stories: With Anela Kahiamoe on Feb. 22, 7pm, 2020 Estevan Road. Tickets: $25 at Eventbrite or $30 Door. Wear a Hawaiian shirt.
Knox United Church presents ‘The Pretzel Logic Orchestra, Steely Dan Tribute’ on Saturday, Feb. 22, 7pm. Tickets are $30. 345 Pym St., Parksville. Info: www.kucparksville.ca
QB Senior Ukulele Band Concert: Presented by St. Edmund’s Church on Sun., Feb. 23, 3pm at 407 Wembley Rd. Parksville. Tickets: $10/seat (children free). See display ad for ticket info.
Free Downsizing Seminar: Thur., Feb. 27, 1-3pm at Nanaimo Golf Club, 2800 Highland Blvd. Learn to downsize your home following a step by step plan. Guest speakers with valuable info. Pre-register: Call 250.616.3641 or ian@ianthompsonrealestate.com
Back Beat Presents The Beach Boys Tribute: Let’s go surfin’! Held Saturday March 1, 7:30-9:30pm at the Theatre in ADSS, Port Alberni. This Multimedia event re-creates the Music & Vocal Harmonies of the Beach Boys live onstage! Tickets are on sale now & available through Eventbrite
Port Alberni Annual Rock & Gem Show: Vendors on upper & lower floors of the Athletic Hall, 3727 Roger St., on Saturday, March 8, 10am-5pm & Sunday, March 9, 10am-4pm. Vendors, demos, displays & kids korner. Admission $3. Children under 12 are free with an adult. For more info, contact Ron at 250-723-4324.
Comedy Misfits Stand Up Tour are coming this spring to Port Alberni for a night full of laughs on March 14, 7pm at Westwind Pub. 19+. Tix $20 in advance at WW or $25 at door.
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.
Volunteers Needed! Mount Arrowsmith Salvation Army needs help for food bank, thrift stores & soup kitchen. Please contact the coordinator at 250-586-6520 or email: mountarrowsmith.volunteers@salvationarmy.ca
Cedar Heritage Centre Rentals: A community space ideal for meetings, workshops, small parties, health & wellness classes, or medium size gatherings. For rental inquiries, call 778-674-0466 or email: facilitybookings@rdn.bc.ca (mention Coffee News to save $20 off rentals)
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
Do You or Someone You Love Need to Travel to receive cancer treatment? You may qualify for support through our Cancer Travel & Accommodation Services program. Visit cancer.ca/CTAAS, call 1-888-939-3333 or email BCTravelFund@cancer.ca to talk to us about your options.
Cowichan Valley Sea Cadets now recruiting for youth 12-18, meeting Tuesdays 6-9pm, 6722 Beaumont Rd in Maple Bay. Friendships, on-water skills, citizenship, fitness, leadership & more, all for free. 100sea@cadets.gc.ca
14th Annual Lions Free Skate presented by Nanaimo Lions Club. The sessions are scheduled every Sunday at the Frank Crane Arena, 12-1:30pm until March 23, 2025. Admission & skate rentals are free.
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society wants to hear from residents about equity, diversity and inclusion in Nanaimo. To learn more and complete the survey, visit: cvims.org
Register Now for Ecole Publique Francophone: Ecole des Cascades, 1951 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. For info, call 250-714-0761.
Cowichan Valley Probus Club invites any retired or nearly retired to our meetings at the Arbutus Golf Club on 1st Tuesday of the month, 10am. Visit: cowichanvalleyprobusclub.ca or call 250-746-1744 for details.
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. In what country are the Olmec Colossal Heads found?
2. Is the Hugo Award given for science fiction, poetry, or painting?
3. What is the most expensive spice in the world?
4. This is the most common type of organ transplant.
5. A day on Mars, Venus, or Earth is 24 hours, 37 minutes, 22 seconds?
2. Is the Hugo Award given for science fiction, poetry, or painting?
3. What is the most expensive spice in the world?
4. This is the most common type of organ transplant.
5. A day on Mars, Venus, or Earth is 24 hours, 37 minutes, 22 seconds?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
You may find it difficult to communicate what you feel right now to those you love. Consider how to adjust your approach to more effectively say what you mean. Lucky numbers: 6, 15, 19, 26, 30, 34.
Early this week, your head may be telling you one thing and your heart something else. Consider listening to your intuition, which can be a challenge for the Taurus-born. Lucky numbers: 4, 11, 13, 14, 19, 36.
You may feel very optimistic about how your life is going now. But if you feel overwhelmed by the number of options, focus on the ones that serve the highest purpose. Lucky numbers: 5, 8, 10, 16, 37, 47.
For the next few weeks, you may be especially empathetic in talking with others. Is there an issue where leaning into this dynamic could help resolve the situation? Lucky numbers: 13, 18, 22, 26, 30, 44.
You may find yourself in a tug of war between your needs and those of others. How might you make an adjustment in your view that could achieve a win-win for all? Lucky numbers: 8, 17, 32, 37, 42, 45.
You are halfway through the solar year that began at your birthday. Did you set new goals? How are they progressing? Might you need to make changes to the plan? Lucky numbers: 9, 13, 29, 36, 37, 47.
Have you hit a stalemate about something in your primary relationship? This may last for a few weeks, so be conscious of the dynamic. Can you work to mitigate it? Lucky numbers: 7, 17, 21, 26, 28, 46.
Midweek, you may find yourself swimming in the waters of your unconscious. This may be a good time to retreat to a quiet space and process emotions that surface. Lucky numbers: 10, 18, 29, 31, 41, 44.
Your natural enthusiasm may be enhanced at week’s end. In deciding on next steps, consider how this optimism could help fulfill a higher purpose for yourself and others. Lucky numbers: 1, 3, 7, 8, 16, 41.
You may feel strongly at week’s end about what needs to be done. You may very well be right, but considering the views of others who are affected is also important. Lucky numbers: 2, 16, 22, 29, 31, 46.
Aquarians are sensitive to the challenges of Pluto for the next 18 years. This week look for an opportunity that could put you in alignment with its highest manifestation. Lucky numbers: 3, 4, 10, 28, 29, 39.
Your birthday month can be a good time to set goals for the next year. What resources do you need to accomplish them, and what obstacles might you encounter? Lucky numbers: 11, 12, 21, 25, 41, 47.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Sagittarius winners with the luckiest number being 7.
Blink count: The average person blinks about 15 times a minute, adding up to roughly 21,600 blinks every day. These tiny, automatic movements clean, moisten, and rest your eyes while giving quick refreshes to your mind.
Moon mystery: Mercury and Venus stand out as the only planets in our solar system without moons. Mercury is closest to the Sun’s powerful gravity that would prevent moons from forming or orbiting. Why Venus lacks a moon is not known.
Code pioneer: Ada Lovelace is celebrated as the first computer programmer. In 1843, she wrote a program for Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine and speculated that it could even process music, inspiring modern computing concepts.
Sweet gesture: In South Korea, Valentine’s Day traditions include women presenting men with gifts of chocolate. It’s a charming twist from other countries. Shops overflow with treats, making chocolate the perfect way to share a little romance.
Saber sound: The famous hum of a Star Wars lightsaber comes from blending the motor hum of an old film projector with the buzz from a TV set. For the swoosh, the film’s sound team simply waved a mic in front of a speaker playing these sounds.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Ears. Ears who? Ears another knock-knock joke.
How many skunks does it take to stink up a neighbourhood? Just a phew.
When chicken broth was first canned, it was souper!
Playing hooky is like a credit card. Fun now, pay later.
Teacher: “See, you can have fun doing addition problems.”
Student: “Yes, sum fun.”
How many skunks does it take to stink up a neighbourhood? Just a phew.
When chicken broth was first canned, it was souper!
Playing hooky is like a credit card. Fun now, pay later.
Teacher: “See, you can have fun doing addition problems.”
Student: “Yes, sum fun.”
Trivia Answers: 1. Mexico 2. Science fiction 3. Saffron 4. Kidney 5. Mars
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!
Feb 10 - 16, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Hiking boost: MO/GO Hiking Pants, a cutting-edge collaboration between Arc’teryx and Skip, are designed to give hikers a serious leg up. These motor-powered pants are equipped with carbon fibre supports and motors that assist the wearer’s muscles, making climbs easier and descents gentler on the knees. The integrated artificial intelligence adjusts the support based on the terrain, while a battery pack powers the motors for hours of hiking aid. Weighing in at seven pounds (3.2 kg), these pants lighten the load, making hikers feel as though they’re 30 pounds (13.7 kg) lighter. Plans are in place to offer rentals on select trails, giving hikers the chance for a futuristic experience without the long-term commitment.
Disappearing lake: Lost Lake, in the U.S. state of Oregon, pulls off a fascinating natural disappearing act each year, transforming from a tranquil lake in the winter to a lush, grassy meadow by summer’s end. Nestled in the Willamette National Forest, the lake is fed by streams during the fall and winter months, but come spring, it slowly drains through two volcanic holes at the lakebed. These natural “drains” direct the water underground. Though a popular tourist spot, officials often remind visitors not to block the holes, as doing so could cause nearby roads to flood. This unique lake continues to mesmerize with its seasonal transformation, making it a must-see for curious adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Comic dispute: A young man in Chiayi City, Taiwan, took his mother to court after she discarded a cherished, 32-volume comic collection. Frustrated by the clutter, his mother decided to recycle the comics, claiming some were damp and taking up too much space. When her son discovered his collection missing, he called the police and later filed a lawsuit, arguing that replacing these specific volumes would be difficult since many are out of print. The mother expressed regret, hoping to mend their relationship, but he refused. The Chiayi District Court fined her for property damage, highlighting her disregard for her son’s belongings. This family’s story seems to have more plot twists than most comics.
Vertical village: Nearly all of the roughly 200 residents of Whittier, Alaska (U.S.), live in a 14-story building called Begich Towers. Originally an Army barracks, this structure now houses a post office, convenience store, health clinic, and even a small church. The town’s remote location makes it hard to reach, accessible only by sea or a one-lane tunnel. Winters are harsh, with high winds driving people indoors, so Begich Towers serves as a close-knit mini-community under one roof. From high up, visitors can take in sweeping views of the harbour and distant mountains. Here, small-town life takes place vertically, proving community isn’t about space, but about spirit.
“Hope will never be silent.” - Harvey Milk
“Repetition is not failure. Ask the waves, ask the leaves, ask the wind.”
- Mark Nepo
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
Seedy Saturday: Hosted by Alberni Valley Food Security Society on February 8. There will be informative speakers, children’s activities, a seed exchange table & plenty of vendors to get you ready for the 2025 gardening season! Reach out to events@avfood.ca for any questions.
Grief Journaling Workshop: Saturday, February 8, 9-11am, at AV Hospice Office, 2579 10th Ave. Participants will be provided with a journal, prompts & suggestions on how to get started. Cost is $15. For info, call 250-723-4478 or email: info@albernihospice.ca
Chemainus Classical Concerts: Arthur Arnold, cello; Moira Hopfe-Ostensen, piano, Feb. 9, 2pm at St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $30/$10. Reserved: $25/$23 Phone 250-748-8383.
Nanaimo Family History Society AGM with election of executive members, held by Zoom, Feb. 10, session starts at 6:30pm & meeting starts at 7pm. hnanaimofamilyhistory.ca/membership
‘Vertical Growing’ with Don Giberson: Feb. 11, 7:30pm, Qualicum Beach Civic Centre, 747 Jones St. Guests: $5 Yearly membership $15. www.QualicumBeachGardenClub.ca
Mid Island Floral Art club Meeting: Line design demo workshop, theme Wild Love, Feb. 13, 2pm, St Stephen’s Church Hall, 150 Village Way, QBeach. Info: Joanne 250-757-8969.
Music for Brain Health: East Coast kitchen party Friday, February 14, 1-3pm at Duncan United Church (246 Ingram St.). Connect & stimulate your brain! Email admin@brainonwheels.org for more information.
The ‘Paperboys’ presented by Knox United Church: Held Feb. 15, 2pm Feb. 15. A feel-good fusion of Celtic, folk, country & so much more! $35 from Eventbrite & Fireside Books.
Film Fest Winter 2025 Film Series: Sunday, Feb. 16, 5pm is ‘Thelma’; Sunday, March 16, 5pm is ‘All We Imagine As Light’; Sunday, April 27, 5pm ‘So Surreal: Behind the Mask’. Single film tickets are $15 or series pass $55 & available at Alberni Valley Museum. All films showing at the Paramount Theatre. For more info, call 250-720-2863.
Echo Players Present ‘Deathtrap’ by Ira Levin: Held Feb. 20 - March 9 at The Village Theatre, 110W 2nd Ave., Qualicum. Wed - Sat, 7:30pm & Sunday matinee, 2pm. Tickets: echoplayers.ca or 250-752-3522
Coldest Night of the Year 2025: A family friendly fundraising walk in support of local charities. Let’s change the tune for people experiencing hurt, hunger & homelessness...because it’s cold out there. Held Feb. 22, 4pm. Team up & walk with us. Registration & tickets: cnoy.org Presented by Port Alberni Safe Haven Society.
Warm Aloha Hawaiian Music Concert & Stories: With Anela Kahiamoe on Feb. 22, 7pm, 2020 Estevan Road. Tickets: $25 at Eventbrite or $30 Door. Wear a Hawaiian shirt.
Knox United Church presents ‘The Pretzel Logic Orchestra, Steely Dan Tribute’ on Saturday, Feb. 22, 7pm. Tickets are $30. 345 Pym St., Parksville. Info: www.kucparksville.ca
Free Downsizing Seminar: Thur., Feb. 27, 1-3pm at Nanaimo Golf Club, 2800 Highland Blvd. Learn to downsize your home following a step by step plan. Guest speakers with valuable info. Pre-register: Call 250.616.3641 or ian@ianthompsonrealestate.com
Cedar Heritage Centre Rentals: A community space ideal for meetings, workshops, small parties, health & wellness classes, or medium size gatherings. For rental inquiries, call 778-674-0466 or email: facilitybookings@rdn.bc.ca
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
Do You or Someone You Love Need to Travel to receive cancer treatment? You may qualify for support through our Cancer Travel & Accommodation Services program. Visit cancer.ca/CTAAS, call 1-888-939-3333 or email BCTravelFund@cancer.ca to talk to us about your options.
Cowichan Valley Sea Cadets now recruiting for youth 12-18, meeting Tuesdays 6-9pm, 6722 Beaumont Rd in Maple Bay. Friendships, on-water skills, citizenship, fitness, leadership & more, all for free. 100sea@cadets.gc.ca
14th Annual Lions Free Skate presented by Nanaimo Lions Club. The sessions are scheduled every Sunday at the Frank Crane Arena, 12-1:30pm until March 23, 2025. Admission & skate rentals are free.
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society wants to hear from residents about equity, diversity and inclusion in Nanaimo. To learn more and complete the survey, visit: cvims.org
Register Now for Ecole Publique Francophone: Ecole des Cascades, 1951 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. For info, call 250-714-0761.
Cowichan Valley Probus Club invites any retired or nearly retired to our meetings at the Arbutus Golf Club on 1st Tuesday of the month, 10am. Visit: cowichanvalleyprobusclub.ca or call 250-746-1744 for details.
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 colour name is derived from the old high German word brun?
2. Scavenging for treasure along a riverbank is sometimes called this.
3. A xylographer engraves wood, marble, or steel?
4. In what country was the first paper currency used?
5. Heliology is the study of helicopters, hieroglyphics, or the Sun?
2. Scavenging for treasure along a riverbank is sometimes called this.
3. A xylographer engraves wood, marble, or steel?
4. In what country was the first paper currency used?
5. Heliology is the study of helicopters, hieroglyphics, or the Sun?
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
Aries can be tempted to emulate the symbol of their sign and ram their way through obstacles. If you wait until week’s end, you may be able to try charm instead. Lucky numbers: 2, 5, 14, 37, 39, 40.
Early this week, things may move quickly and you may feel uncomfortable about how to proceed. Try to take a deep breath and talk it out with someone you trust. Lucky numbers: 4, 19, 23, 26, 28, 45.
Geminis often give priority to their mind over their heart in decision making. This week, leaning more toward your heart may be helpful, even if that is uncomfortable. Lucky numbers: 11, 18, 20, 28, 34, 43.
The Cancer-born can be reticent to highlight their talents and accomplishments. But in midweek, look for an opportunity to step out into the spotlight and shine. Lucky numbers: 10, 13, 15, 21, 32, 34.
You may find yourself in the spotlight this week. If you place your focus on the contributions of others rather than yourself, an opportunity could emerge for you to lead. Lucky numbers: 9, 13, 27, 36, 43, 44.
Look for an opportunity this week to spend some time in nature. The energy might help you relax and recharge your nervous system. You could be glad you did so. Lucky numbers: 13, 15, 16, 31, 37, 42.
Your innate skills of tact and diplomacy may be highlighted. Week’s end might be a good time for a social gathering to make progress on one of your favourite projects. Lucky numbers: 1, 6, 17, 21, 23, 28.
This week, being very conscious of what you say to yourself and others could be important. Focus on presenting what you see in the highest possible light. Lucky numbers: 12, 21, 27, 32, 40, 46.
Your natural enthusiasm may be heightened during the middle of the week. How might you use this energy to push through and complete a goal close to your heart? Lucky numbers: 14, 18, 26, 30, 32, 39.
Working to be successful in your endeavours is a life theme for Capricorns. At midweek, however, you may want to ask if your heart is truly in your current activities. Lucky numbers: 7, 13, 15, 18, 34, 46.
Aquarians can understand the challenges and opportunities for humanity of Pluto transiting your sign in the next decade. How could you communicate this to others? Lucky numbers: 3, 10, 22, 27, 31, 45.
You may find the effects of last week’s events are still resonating. Take time to think through and evaluate where you are. Look for opportunities for a positive outcome. Lucky numbers: 8, 13, 21, 31, 35, 47.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Libra winners with the luckiest number being 21.
Fruit fallout: Surprisingly, bananas contain a tiny amount of natural radiation, as do some other foods. A fraction of their potassium atoms emit radiation, but the exposure is so minimal and slow that eating a banana poses no health risk.
Locked orbit: We can only see one side of the moon because it’s tidally locked with Earth. This means the moon rotates on its axis at the same speed as it orbits around Earth, always keeping the same familiar face visible.
Star power: Stars are a common feature on more than 50 national flags. On Australia’s flag, five stars represent the Southern Cross constellation, visible only from the Southern Hemisphere, symbolizing the country’s geographical location.
Divine feline: In ancient Egypt, when a cherished cat passed away, the owners shaved their own eyebrows in mourning. These sacred pets were even mummified with mice and milk, prepared for a comfortable journey to the afterlife.
Cow chatter: Cows don’t just randomly moo. They actually develop their own local dialects! Researchers noticed that herds from different places have unique sounds, shaped by their surroundings, much as people pick up accents from their own regions.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Juicy. Juicy who? Juicy any monsters under the bed?
Why did police arrest the crow? The crow was making crank caws.
A party that flops is a fete worse than death.
Did you hear the one about the lion who ate clowns? You’ll roar!
Dad: “Can you get out of the car and tell me if my direction indicator is working?”
Son: “Yes, it is … no, it isn’t … yes, it is … no, it isn’t … yes, it is ….”
Why did police arrest the crow? The crow was making crank caws.
A party that flops is a fete worse than death.
Did you hear the one about the lion who ate clowns? You’ll roar!
Dad: “Can you get out of the car and tell me if my direction indicator is working?”
Son: “Yes, it is … no, it isn’t … yes, it is … no, it isn’t … yes, it is ….”
Trivia Answers: 1. Brown 2. Mudlarking 3. Wood 4. China 5. The Sun
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!
Feb 3 - 9, 2025
Mid Vancouver Island Edition
Vacuum victory: Indian inventor Tapala Nadamuni has reclaimed a Guinness World Record for creating the world’s smallest functional vacuum cleaner. His latest creation, measuring just 0.65 centimetres (0.26 in.) plus handle and power cord, is smaller than a fingernail. It took him two years of hard work and multiple redesigns to outdo his previous record and regain the title he lost. Powered by a tiny motor and made from parts of a ballpoint pen, the vacuum uses a small rotating fan to generate suction. While the design sounds simple, meeting the exact Guinness standards proved challenging. Despite setbacks and rejections, the inventor’s persistence paid off. In this case, dreaming small achieved something huge!
Coin-covered cure: In Kathmandu, Nepal, a shrine known as the Toothache Tree attracts those seeking relief from dental pain. This unusual site is dedicated to Vaisha Dev, the patron saint of toothaches. The shrine, believed to be a remnant of the ancient Bangemudha tree, is entirely covered in rupee coins nailed to it by hopeful visitors. Despite modern dentistry’s presence in the area, locals and tourists alike continue this centuries-old tradition, hoping the deity will cure their ailments. Legends suggest a hidden idol lies within the stump, though it remains unseen due to the layers of coins. Who knew that the cure for a toothache could be as simple as putting your money where your mouth is?
Pungent perfection: Vieux Boulogne, a French artisanal cheese, holds the title of the world’s stinkiest. It has outclassed other strong-smelling cheeses, such as Limburger and Muenster, in tests using both human sniffers and electronic noses. Carefully aged and washed with beer, the cheese’s potent aroma is often compared to body odor, cow dung, and earthy undertones. Despite its intense smell, the taste is surprisingly mild and creamy, as the pungency comes from the rind rather than the cheese itself. In fact, the scent is so overpowering that it’s banned from public transport in France. If you’re brave enough to try it, just remember, the stink is all part of the experience.
Ramen revolution: Boost Noodle, a clever Japanese creation, has transformed instant ramen into an ultra-convenient, one-handed meal. Appealing to gamers and multitaskers, this innovative snack comes in a small pouch, allowing people to sip the noodles without putting down their controller or phone. With yam noodles, chashu pork, and bamboo shoots in a rich broth, the snack provides a meal on the move. The developers tackled the challenge of keeping the noodles firm by using a special yam-based recipe. With added caffeine for extra energy, people are grabbing it for long gaming marathons. Whether someone is glued to a screen or simply needs a quick snack, Boost Noodle is certainly one option for busy lives.
“But what a gamble friendship is!” - E.B. White
“Do not remove a fly from your friend’s forehead with a hatchet.”
“Do not remove a fly from your friend’s forehead with a hatchet.”
- Chinese proverb
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (Deadline Mondays at noon)
Our Saviour Lutheran Church invites everyone for a series of 3 illustrated talks on ‘The Dead Sea Scrolls’ on Wednesday, Feb 5, 7-8pm, 795 Island Hwy W, Parksville.
Volunteer Fair: Explore exciting opportunities & connect with organizations that value supporting volunteers. Held Wednesday, February 5, 1am-3pm at Beban Social Centre. Info: community@cvims.org
Seedy Saturday: Hosted by Alberni Valley Food Security Society on February 8. There will be informative speakers, children’s activities, a seed exchange table & plenty of vendors to get you ready for the 2025 gardening season! Reach out to events@avfood.ca for any questions.
Grief Journaling Workshop: Saturday, February 8, 9-11am, at AV Hospice Office, 2579 10th Ave. Participants will be provided with a journal, prompts & suggestions on how to get started. Cost is $15. For info, call 250-723-4478 or email: info@albernihospice.ca
Chemainus Classical Concerts: Arthur Arnold, cello; Moira Hopfe-Ostensen, piano, Feb. 9, 2pm at St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $30/$10. Reserved: $25/$23 Phone 250-748-8383.
Nanaimo Family History Society AGM with election of executive members, held by Zoom, Feb. 10, session starts at 6:30pm & meeting starts at 7pm. hnanaimofamilyhistory.ca/membership
‘Vertical Growing’ with Don Giberson: Feb. 11, 7:30pm, Qualicum Beach Civic Centre, 747 Jones St. Guests: $5 Yearly membership $15. www.QualicumBeachGardenClub.ca
Mid Island Floral Art club Meeting: Line design demo workshop, theme Wild Love, Feb. 13, 2pm, St Stephen’s Church Hall, 150 Village Way, QBeach. Info: Joanne 250-757-8969.
Music for Brain Health: East Coast kitchen party Friday, February 14, 1-3pm at Duncan United Church (246 Ingram St.). Connect & stimulate your brain! Email admin@brainonwheels.org for more information.
The ‘Paperboys’ presented by Knox United Church: Held Feb. 15, 2pm Feb. 15. A feel-good fusion of Celtic, folk, country & so much more! $35 from Eventbrite & Fireside Books.
Film Fest Winter 2025 Film Series: Sunday, Feb. 16, 5pm is ‘Thelma’; Sunday, March 16, 5pm is ‘All We Imagine As Light’; Sunday, April 27, 5pm ‘So Surreal: Behind the Mask’. Single film tickets are $15 or series pass $55 & available at Alberni Valley Museum. All films showing at the Paramount Theatre. For more info, call 250-720-2863.
Coldest Night of the Year 2025: A family friendly fundraising walk in support of local charities. Let’s change the tune for people experiencing hurt, hunger & homelessness...because it’s cold out there. Held Feb. 22, 4pm. Team up & walk with us. Registration & tickets: cnoy.org Presented by Port Alberni Safe Haven Society.
Cedar Heritage Centre Rentals: A community space ideal for meetings, workshops, small parties, health & wellness classes, or medium size gatherings. For rental inquiries, call 778-674-0466 or email: facilitybookings@rdn.bc.ca
Nanaimo Lions Club warmly welcomes new members who wish to join us in giving back to the community. Google ‘Nanaimo Lions Club’ or email nanaimolions@gmail.com
Compassionate Care is Just a Call Away! From personal care to companionship & respite. Your loved one deserves the best. Local & insured, with very reasonable rates. Call 250-667-7453.
Do You or Someone You Love Need to Travel to receive cancer treatment? You may qualify for support through our Cancer Travel & Accommodation Services program. Visit cancer.ca/CTAAS, call 1-888-939-3333 or email BCTravelFund@cancer.ca to talk to us about your options.
Cowichan Valley Sea Cadets now recruiting for youth 12-18, meeting Tuesdays 6-9pm, 6722 Beaumont Rd in Maple Bay. Friendships, on-water skills, citizenship, fitness, leadership & more, all for free. 100sea@cadets.gc.ca
14th Annual Lions Free Skate presented by Nanaimo Lions Club. The sessions are scheduled every Sunday at the Frank Crane Arena, 12-1:30pm until March 23, 2025. Admission & skate rentals are free.
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society wants to hear from residents about equity, diversity and inclusion in Nanaimo. To learn more and complete the survey, visit: cvims.org
Register Now for Ecole Publique Francophone: Ecole des Cascades, 1951 Estevan Rd., Nanaimo. For info, call 250-714-0761.
Cowichan Valley Probus Club invites any retired or nearly retired to our meetings at the Arbutus Golf Club on 1st Tuesday of the month, 10am. Visit: cowichanvalleyprobusclub.ca or call 250-746-1744 for details.
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 were the little people that Gulliver saw on his travels?
2. The raccoon’s mask helps it see - T/F?
3. The thorax is the head, midsection, or abdomen of an insect?
4. What is the motto of Harvard University?
5. In what country are you most likely to see lemurs in the wild?
2. The raccoon’s mask helps it see - T/F?
3. The thorax is the head, midsection, or abdomen of an insect?
4. What is the motto of Harvard University?
5. In what country are you most likely to see lemurs in the wild?
(see bottom for answers)
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Your emotions may be a bit volatile this week. Be conscious of how interactions with others may trigger an old wound. Find an appropriate way to channel those feelings. Lucky numbers: 7, 11, 14, 23, 25, 26.
The energy at midweek might help you achieve your desire, assuming that you truly know what you want. If not, take a step back and think about what you value. Lucky numbers: 2, 3, 10, 18, 32, 46.
Have you recently chosen a new opportunity that could help you achieve your goal? Now may be a good time to discuss it with others and see how they can help. Lucky numbers: 9, 10, 11, 12, 18, 37.
Conversations this week may highlight a divide with those close to you. Could you adjust your view to resolve the matter, and meet in the middle of differing opinions? Lucky numbers: 12, 19, 23, 24, 27, 46.
At week’s end, you may find that it is in everyone’s best interests to have a conversation that focuses on the needs and desires of others, rather than on yourself. Lucky numbers: 8, 11, 12, 27, 32, 37.
A pattern from your past life may bring you a talent, but it also might hold you back. It will always be available, but right now you also need to grow beyond it. Lucky numbers: 1, 10, 19, 26, 34, 45.
Is there something you have long wanted to try, but didn’t feel brave enough to do so? The start of the week may bring you an opportunity for courage in this regard. Lucky numbers: 5, 11, 20, 33, 42, 47.
An important lesson for Scorpios is that not every challenge needs to be viewed as a life-or-death struggle. The energy at midweek might encourage you to lighten up. Lucky numbers: 6, 11, 18, 27, 36, 44.
At week’s end, you may find that your head and heart are not in agreement. If you can’t find a way to bridge the gap, wait a few days for the situation to change. Lucky numbers: 15, 21, 36, 42, 43, 48.
This weekend may be a good time to put aside your ambitions. Spend some time nurturing yourself and those you care about most. The work will still be there later. Lucky numbers: 3, 6, 11, 22, 38, 39.
You may feel passionate this week about what you are trying to achieve. Be careful of causing a rift with others by identifying too personally with your efforts. Lucky numbers: 11, 13, 17, 30, 33, 38.
Being very conscious this week is important because the effects of your actions may resonate for a long time. You might feel an urgency to settle a karmic matter. Lucky numbers: 4, 13, 17, 26, 33, 36.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Gemini winners with the luckiest number being 37.
Fluffy friends: Angora rabbits, often traced to Ankara, Turkey (once known as “Angora”), are popular for their fluffy coats. Their softness and hypoallergenic nature made their wool a hit for scarves and sweaters in the early 20th-century United States.
Ancient emblem: The Red Dragon of Wales, a centuries-old symbol of Welsh heritage, stands on a green and white flag. Though its true origin remains a mystery, the symbol remains a beloved emblem of the nation today.
Sweet history: The 3 Musketeers candy bar originally launched in 1932 as three separate chocolate pieces, flavoured vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, hence the name. Over time, it became the single, nougat-filled treat of today.
Triple power: Octopuses have a fascinating system with three hearts that helps them thrive underwater. Two of these pump blood through the gills for oxygen, while a third keeps the oxygenated blood flowing to fuel their active bodies.
Wine roots: In Slovenia, a 400-year-old vine still produces grapes for wine, having survived wars, pests, and rising waters. Its deep roots saved it from a parasite that wiped out many European vineyards, making it a lasting symbol of nature’s endurance.
Where does a sheep get a haircut? At the baa-baa shop.
The orchestra leader kept throwing tempo tantrums.
Customer: “Can I pick out a watch?”
Sales person: “Sure, take your time.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Police. Police who? Police stop telling knock-knock jokes.
Caterpillar, after watching a butterfly: “You’ll never catch me up in one of those things.”
The orchestra leader kept throwing tempo tantrums.
Customer: “Can I pick out a watch?”
Sales person: “Sure, take your time.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Police. Police who? Police stop telling knock-knock jokes.
Caterpillar, after watching a butterfly: “You’ll never catch me up in one of those things.”
Trivia Answers: 1. Lilliputians 2. True 3. Midsection 4. Veritas
5. Madagascar
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