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September 14 - 20, 2026
Greater Victoria Edition
Thank you for reading our Greater Victoria ONLINE edition.
Look for our seven print editions which can be found across Vancouver Island: Parksville/Qualicum, North Nanaimo, Central/South Nanaimo/Ladysmith, Cowichan Valley/Mill Bay, South Saanich/Oak Bay, Victoria/Esquimalt and West Shore. At the bottom of this page you can find PDF versions of those editions. For advertising info... click here.
Tentacle tunes: In Sweden, a musician known for building unusual instruments turned a home aquarium into a tiny music studio. Instead of practicing alone, he designed a keyboard that could be pressed by an octopus using its arms. The setup took patience, with time spent letting the animal get used to the instrument and its surroundings before any sounds emerged. Progress came slowly, helped by simple rewards that encouraged repeated movements across the keys. Over time, short patterns replaced random taps, creating something that resembled a tune. The project drew attention through online videos that showed careful training, steady progress, and an unexpected mix of music, design, and animal behaviour.
Living canvas: In labs around the world, artists practice agar art, building pictures by guiding the growth of bacteria and fungi. Their work begins in shallow dishes filled with agar, a clear gel that lets microbes spread and form colour as they multiply. Rather than brushing strokes, creators place tiny samples with care and then wait as shapes slowly appear on their own. Different organisms grow at different speeds, which adds texture and contrast. The results range from animals to abstract scenes, all shaped by living material. An annual contest run by a microbiology group has helped bring this practice to a wider audience. The process blurs the line between experiment and artwork in a way that keeps surprising viewers.
Hydrogen debut: In San Bernardino, California (U.S.), a new kind of passenger train is carrying riders without burning diesel or drawing power from overhead wires. The train blends hydrogen fuel cells with onboard batteries, creating electricity as it moves and releasing only water vapour. Built for regional routes where full electrification can be hard to justify, the design lets trains run much like before while changing what happens under the floor. Local agencies see it as a practical option for lines needing cleaner operation without major rebuilding. Similar technology has already been tested overseas, giving planners confidence it can scale. Engineers are now tracking how it runs day to day to help decide where it could fit next.
Fog harvest: Along the dry hills near Lima, Peru, residents are collecting fresh water from the air using tall mesh panels that catch passing mist. When fog moves through the nets, tiny droplets cling to the fibres, merge, and drip into channels below. The gathered water is stored nearby and used for washing, small gardens, and daily needs where pipes don’t reach. These setups work best in places with steady fog and light winds, even when rain is rare. Community groups help install and maintain the nets, keeping the systems running locally. Similar projects have appeared in other fog-prone regions facing water stress. The approach shows how small tools can reshape life in dry landscapes.
“I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.” - Louisa May Alcott
“A calm mind brings inner strength and self-confidence.”
- Dalai Lama
“A calm mind brings inner strength and self-confidence.”
- Dalai Lama
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (no attachments). Deadline Mondays noon.
Love to Sing? Save These Dates: Thursdays, September 12 & 19, from 6:45-9pm when Avalon Singers does intake rehearsals. An all female adult community choir who sing a wide variety of music. For location & more info., visit www.AvalonSingers.com
Victoria Arion Male Choir Open Houses: Monday’s September 14 & 21, 7pm. Visit: www.vamc.ca or email: info@vamc.ca
Attic Treasures Vintage Market: Sat., Sept. 19, 9am-4pm at St. Luke’s Community Hall, 3821 Cedar Hill X Rd. Free parking & wheelchair accessible. Info: admin@stlukecedarhill.ca
Free Intro to Square Dancing with The Frontier Twirlers at Colwood Community Hall, 2219 Sooke Rd., on Sunday Sept 20 & 27, 7-9pm.
Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Launch: Learn more on September 26, 1:30pm at North Douglas Church, 675 Jolly Place (off Glanford). Please pre-register to: dehaan.charlene@gmail.com
An Evening of Music & Laughter with singer/songwriter Amy Bishop. Sat. Sept. 26 @ 7:30. 1273 Fort St. Victoria www.unityvancouverisland.com/victoria. Pay what you want
Victoria Psychic Fair: Held at the Bay Centre October 1st-7th, during mall hours. Meet gifted psychics, mediums & spiritual readers from across Vancouver Island. For more info, visit: www.victoriapsychicfair.com
Crafts From the Crypt Fair: Save the dates! Held Sat., Oct. 3, 10am-5pm & Sun., Oct. 4, 10am-4pm. A spooky halloween arts & crafts fair. Admission $5, kids 12 & under free. New location: Saanich Fair Grounds, 1528 Stelly’s Cross Rd., Saanich.
Pianist Needed for a Seniors Choir: Rehearsals are on Wed & Friday afternoons from September to June. For more info, please contact: Judy at 778-422-1701.
Let’s Talk Live Event Series: Meet new people for free every week. On Fridays, 4-6pm, we meet at 965 Kings Rd.; Saturdays, 10am-12pm, we meet at 1110 Government St., & on Sundays, 3-5pm, we meet at 636 Johnson St. For more info, visit: lets-talk.live
Victoria Farmers Market at Moss Street: Held every Saturday until October 31, 10am-2pm at Sir James Douglas Elementary, 401 Moss St.
Live music! Victoria Folk Music Society weekly gatherings, every Sunday night, 7:30-10pm, Norway House, 1110 Hillside Ave, $8 cash, Everyone welcome www.victoriafolkmusic.ca
Victoria Based Collector buys vintage license plates. Call 250-477-4127 or email: JohnMRoberts@telus.net if you have any you wish to sell.
As an Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualified purchases.
1. Who created the comic strip character Garfield?
2. The human body has 32 permanent _____.
3. What is the fastest land animal?
4. The fictional school attended by Harry Potter is Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and _____.
5. Mount Kosciuszko is the tallest mountain in Australia, New Zealand, or Indonesia?
2. The human body has 32 permanent _____.
3. What is the fastest land animal?
4. The fictional school attended by Harry Potter is Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and _____.
5. Mount Kosciuszko is the tallest mountain in Australia, New Zealand, or Indonesia?
(see bottom for answers)
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Over the next decade, humanity will be experiencing a major urge toward an evolution in consciousness. What role do you want to play to see that this shift is successful? Lucky numbers: 7, 13, 14, 26, 44, 46.
The Universe will be encouraging you over the next few years to undergo a transformation in your spiritual nature. Flowing with events will make the process easier. Lucky numbers: 2, 11, 12, 17, 24, 48.
Geminis tend to live in their heads. However, this week, you may encounter deep, passionate emotions that feel uncomfortable and ask you to live from your heart for awhile. Lucky numbers: 3, 5, 18, 19, 28, 33.
Early in the week, you may experience a burst of energy that can jump start your endeavours. This potential won’t last long so be sure to take advantage of it. Lucky numbers: 14, 25, 27, 43, 45, 46.
Leos sometimes live for themselves alone. This period, however, encourages you to think about where your life would be better served in a larger context that serves others too. Lucky numbers: 9, 10, 24, 28, 35, 47.
Service to others is an important theme for Virgos. The question now is whether your focus has been too small. How can you make a greater contribution in the world? Lucky numbers: 4, 13, 20, 30, 33, 46.
Libras are most often focused on those in their inner circle. Consider, however, how your skills can be brought to bear helping humans create more harmony in the outer world. Lucky numbers: 12, 16, 22, 26, 28, 38.
Your intuitive insights are dialled up again early in the week. As always, be sure that the other person really wants to hear this information before you share it. Lucky numbers: 5, 11, 15, 17, 18, 29.
Your natural optimism is heightened at mid-week. It may be a good time to initiate a new endeavour. Just be careful not to over-reach. Crossing the Rubicon doesn’t guarantee success. Lucky numbers: 8, 24, 34, 35, 42, 48.
Ambition is good in moderation. If you have been working too hard recently, come up for air. Add something, or someone, into your life that will bring you pleasure now. Lucky numbers: 1, 9, 21, 34, 41, 44.
Some of us are here to aid humanity’s evolution over the next decade. Whether you like it or not, consider accepting that your Aquarius energy places you among them. Lucky numbers: 6, 11, 16, 22, 24, 42.
Neptune in Aries may feel uncomfortable for you, after all the years it spent in Pisces. However, Aries can give you the energy and courage now to manifest your vision. Lucky numbers: 4, 12. 17, 21, 35, 43.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Sagittarius winners with the luckiest number being 35.
Hidden flow: Divers exploring caves in Mexico have linked two submerged passageways, uncovering an underground river running at least 95 miles (154 km). Their find hinted at even more unseen routes below the surface, suggesting an even larger network.
Giant bloom: A rare plant known as the Rafflesia arnoldii in the rainforests of Indonesia produces the world’s largest single flower, spreading several feet across. It survives by drawing what it needs from a host plant and releases a powerful scent that makes its presence hard to miss.
Polar palms: Fossil evidence shows that palm trees once grew in what is now subarctic Canada. These tiny traces date to a period roughly 48 million years in the past, revealing that the region stayed warm year-round during that era.
Coral heart: Heart Reef is a naturally formed, heart-shaped coral patch in the Whitsundays, sitting within Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. A pilot first noticed its outline during a flight, and today it is protected so people view it only from the air.
Water divide: About 97 percent of Earth’s water is salty ocean water, leaving only a small fraction as fresh water, which is mostly found in ice, groundwater, and surface sources. That tiny share supports drinking supplies and everyday use for billions of people.
Our Books are NOW AVAILABLE on Amazon!
What kind of music might you hear in space? Neptunes!
Let’s all give a hand to these sock puppets!!
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Whale. Whale who? Whale you be mine?
Sydney: I must have sneezed 50 times today. Do you think there is something in the air?
Allen: Yes, your germs!
People say I look better without my glasses on. But I can’t see it.
Let’s all give a hand to these sock puppets!!
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Whale. Whale who? Whale you be mine?
Sydney: I must have sneezed 50 times today. Do you think there is something in the air?
Allen: Yes, your germs!
People say I look better without my glasses on. But I can’t see it.
Trivia Answers: 1. Jim Davis 2. Teeth 3. Cheetah 4. Wizardry 5. Australia
PDF Versions of our Publication
- just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants across Vancouver Island.
30 Years! 1996 to 2026!
We would like to thank all our loyal readers, amazing advertisers, devoted delivery drivers and the hundreds of restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, pubs & other locations that have so graciously displayed us.
Thank you ALL so much!
Marco & Charlotte Oscarson
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PRINT versions currently available in:
Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay, Victoria, Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan & Mill Bay.
More areas coming soon!
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September 7 - 13, 2026
Greater Victoria Edition
Thank you for reading our Greater Victoria ONLINE edition.
Look for our seven print editions which can be found across Vancouver Island: Parksville/Qualicum, North Nanaimo, Central/South Nanaimo/Ladysmith, Cowichan Valley/Mill Bay, South Saanich/Oak Bay, Victoria/Esquimalt and West Shore. At the bottom of this page you can find PDF versions of those editions. For advertising info... click here.
Crab crossing: On Christmas Island, Australia, millions of red crabs pour out of the forest and move toward the coast in a seasonal shift that briefly reshapes daily life. Roads, schoolyards, and driveways fill with moving shells as residents slow traffic or work from home to give the animals space. The journey ends at the shoreline, where the crabs release eggs into the sea before the next generation begins its return inland. Park staff and locals step in with simple tools to guide crabs away from danger points. Recent seasons have seen especially heavy movement as conditions improved for the species. For many islanders, the migration remains a shared pause that’s as practical as it is unforgettable.
Storybook stay: In Boston, Massachusetts (U.S.), a hotel suite has been re-imagined as a walk-through version of the familiar bedtime book Goodnight Moon, turning illustrated pages into a space you can sleep inside. The room mirrors the book’s calm setting, with green walls, warm colours, and objects placed to match scenes many people remember from childhood. Instead of reading before bed, guests move through the room and recognize details as part of the setting itself. The design leans on soft lighting and simple textures to keep the space restful rather than busy. Small touches welcome families and encourage slow evenings indoors. It’s meant to offer a pause from travel by placing visitors inside a story they already know well.
Writer haven: In Bangor, Maine (U.S.), author Stephen King and his wife are turning their well-known home into a space focused on writing and preservation. The gated property will be reorganized so one building holds King’s personal papers, while another becomes a quiet place where writers can stay and work. Instead of serving mainly as a photo stop for fans, the site is being reshaped for everyday use and long-term care. The house where the family once lived will be used as an archive, keeping the material tied to its original setting. King’s stories have long drawn sources from the local area, giving the location added meaning. The project shifts the house from a landmark into a work space built for creative work.
Fitness fare: In Cluj-Napoca, Romania, a public transit idea links light exercise with a free bus ride. At a specially set-up bus stop, riders can earn a one-way ticket by doing a short set of bodyweight movements that are counted by a built-in sensor. Once the system confirms the task is complete, it prints a ticket that works like a normal fare on city buses. The goal is to make daily movement easy to fit into everyday travel routines. There’s no sign-up, gym, or app involved, just a quick activity at the stop itself. Supporters say keeping it simple helps more people take part comfortably. The project shows how small changes can gently nudge people toward healthier routines without much effort.
“The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.” - W.B. Yeats
“Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person.” - Mother Teresa
“Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person.” - Mother Teresa
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (no attachments). Deadline Mondays noon.
Victoria Arion Male Choir Open Houses: Monday’s September 7, 14 & 21, 7pm. Visit: www.vamc.ca or email: info@vamc.ca
Four Friends Having Fun: Welcoming visitors to view paintings & share stories in the ArtSea Gallery, 9565 5th St., Sidney, now until Sept. 10, 10am-4pm. Info, email: ssarens@shaw.ca
Love to Sing? Save These Dates: Thursdays, September 12 & 19, from 6:45-9pm when Avalon Singers does intake rehearsals. An all female adult community choir who sing a wide variety of music. For location & more info., visit www.AvalonSingers.com
Victoria Psychic Fair: Held at the Bay Centre October 1st-7th, during mall hours. Meet gifted psychics, mediums & spiritual readers from across Vancouver Island. For more info, visit: www.victoriapsychicfair.com
Crafts From the Crypt Fair: Save the dates! Held Sat., Oct. 3, 10am-5pm & Sun., Oct. 4, 10am-4pm. A spooky halloween arts & crafts fair. Admission $5, kids 12 & under free. New location: Saanich Fair Grounds, 1528 Stelly’s Cross Rd., Saanich.
Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Launch: Learn more on September 26, 1:30pm at North Douglas Church, 675 Jolly Place (off Glanford). Please pre-register to: dehaan.charlene@gmail.com
Pianist Needed for a Seniors Choir: Rehearsals are on Wed & Friday afternoons from September to June. For more info, please contact: Judy at 778-422-1701.
Let’s Talk Live Event Series: Meet new people for free every week. On Fridays, 4-6pm, we meet at 965 Kings Rd.; Saturdays, 10am-12pm, we meet at 1110 Government St., & on Sundays, 3-5pm, we meet at 636 Johnson St. For more info, visit: lets-talk.live
Victoria Farmers Market at Moss Street: Held every Saturday until October 31, 10am-2pm at Sir James Douglas Elementary, 401 Moss St.
Gently Used Hygiene Items: Makeup, personal care, fragrances & more. Sponsored by Soap for Hope, 426B William St. Monday - Friday, 9am-4pm.
Live music! Victoria Folk Music Society weekly gatherings, every Sunday night, 7:30-10pm, Norway House, 1110 Hillside Ave, $8 cash, Everyone welcome www.victoriafolkmusic.ca
Canada Veterans Services Society welcomes Veterans to visit www.cavss.ca to see information on the services we offer, because service never ends.
Victoria Based Collector buys vintage license plates. Call 250-477-4127 or email: JohnMRoberts@telus.net if you have any you wish to sell.
Victoria Men’s Shed ~ Men Helping Men is committed to fostering a community of men in the Greater Victoria area who wish to support one another & engage in projects to benefit each other & the community at large. For more info, visit: victoriamensshed.ca
As an Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualified purchases.
1. Which actor portrays Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe?
2. Mount Everest is located on the border of Nepal and this country.
3. What is a group of flamingos called?
4. Which team has won the second most Stanley Cups?
5. Who was the youngest person elected prime minister of Canada?
2. Mount Everest is located on the border of Nepal and this country.
3. What is a group of flamingos called?
4. Which team has won the second most Stanley Cups?
5. Who was the youngest person elected prime minister of Canada?
(see bottom for answers)
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Everything may feel very confused right now and you may be having difficulty communicating how you feel to others. Adjusting your perspective could be helpful in resolving the situation. Lucky numbers: 3, 5, 12, 35, 38, 39.
Chiron is gradually moving into Taurus for a few years. The Universe will likely ask you to examine the wounds that we all try to hide, from ourselves and everyone else. Lucky numbers: 5, 11, 19, 21, 29, 45.
At week’s end, your mind may suddenly pick up a lot of insights. However, review them carefully, as this may not be the time to make any major changes. Lucky numbers: 1, 12, 13, 37, 45, 48.
Is there an idea that has been swimming in the waters of your unconscious for a while? The energy at mid-week may give you the grounding to finally pursue it. Lucky numbers: 7, 11, 18, 31, 43, 47.
Early this week, you may want to just break out of the routine and play. However, the Universe may ask you to dig deep and find a more satisfying opportunity for joy. Lucky numbers: 9, 10, 12, 22, 30, 37.
Mid-week is a good time to set new intentions into place. If you developed new goals at your birthday, now is the time to consider how to advance them. Lucky numbers: 10,12, 17, 24, 36, 40.
Your Libra tact and diplomacy hit a peak at week’s end. If you have been purposely avoiding a difficult conversation, this may be the time to successfully initiate it. Lucky numbers: 2, 4, 10, 17, 33, 48.
The intensity and passion of your Scorpio energy is on full display now. Conversations may create a romantic attraction. The connection you feel may not last when this period ends. Lucky numbers: 8, 9, 14, 35, 36, 46.
A conversation this week may lay the seeds of an idea. However, it may not be time to initiate it now. Let it simmer on the back burner for a bit. Lucky numbers: 6, 11, 12, 20, 34, 45.
Capricorns are never short on ambition to build something solid. At mid-week, the energy may give you an extra boost to achieve something that has been challenging. Lucky numbers: 11, 16, 25, 29, 32, 47.
Do you have a karmic purpose to fulfill in the world? Present it this week to someone who may be in a position to help you manifest this transformative vision. Lucky numbers: 12, 13, 14, 21, 26, 31.
For the next few months, what you value and feel passionate about may be changing. Allow this process to unfold and resist any urge to act before it is complete. Lucky numbers: 4, 7, 23, 29, 30, 43.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Cancer winners with the luckiest number being 7.
Bark spice: Cinnamon starts as the inner bark of select tropical trees, trimmed away in thin sheets that dry and roll into the sticks we recognize. This simple preparation keeps the bark usable, allowing its natural warm aroma to shine when added to food.
Luck tap: People often knock on wood after saying something optimistic, using it as a ritual to keep misfortune away. One theory links the habit to early beliefs that trees held protective spirits, so tapping the wood was seen as a way to ask for support.
Hidden stripes: Tigers look bright orange to us, but many of the animals they hunt see only limited colour. To those prey species, a tiger’s coat appears greenish instead, letting the big cats blend into forest cover far more easily than people might expect.
Dusty drizzle: So-called “blood rain” isn’t mysterious at all. It happens when desert dust mixes with passing rain clouds, tinting the drops and leaving a thin reddish film behind. The effect is rare, but it can travel far on the wind.
Ancient ache: Egypt’s early dentists faced constantly worn down teeth from gritty foods, so they turned to remedies like crushed minerals and natural rinses. Their simple mixtures aimed to ease discomfort and keep mouths healthier despite a harsh diet.
Our Books are NOW AVAILABLE on Amazon!
Why do seagulls fly over the sea? Because, if they flew over the bay, they’d be bagels!
We couldn’t get the tent up, too many missed stakes!
Remember: Models of dragons are not to scale.
Patient: Doctor, I am nervous this is my first operation.
Doctor: I know how you feel, you are my first patient.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Wood. Wood who? Wood you laugh at my jokes?
We couldn’t get the tent up, too many missed stakes!
Remember: Models of dragons are not to scale.
Patient: Doctor, I am nervous this is my first operation.
Doctor: I know how you feel, you are my first patient.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Wood. Wood who? Wood you laugh at my jokes?
Trivia Answers: 1. Robert Downey Jr. 2. China 3. A Flamboyance
4. Toronto Maple Leafs 5. Joe Clark 39
PDF Versions of our Publication
- just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants across Vancouver Island.
30 Years! 1996 to 2026!
We would like to thank all our loyal readers, amazing advertisers, devoted delivery drivers and the hundreds of restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, pubs & other locations that have so graciously displayed us.
Thank you ALL so much!
Marco & Charlotte Oscarson
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
PRINT versions currently available in:
Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay, Victoria, Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan & Mill Bay.
More areas coming soon!
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Aug 31 - Sept 6, 2026
Greater Victoria Edition
Thank you for reading our Greater Victoria ONLINE edition.
Look for our seven print editions which can be found across Vancouver Island: Parksville/Qualicum, North Nanaimo, Central/South Nanaimo/Ladysmith, Cowichan Valley/Mill Bay, South Saanich/Oak Bay, Victoria/Esquimalt and West Shore. At the bottom of this page you can find PDF versions of those editions. For advertising info... click here.
Lake rumble: In upstate New York (U.S.), Seneca Lake has long startled people with sudden booms that roll across the water like distant thunder, inspiring old tales about spirits and old battles. Researchers studying the lake’s deep floor gathered samples and mapped the terrain to figure out what was happening underground. They learned that pockets of methane slowly build beneath the sediment until pressure forces the gas upward in a sharp release. When the bubble reaches open air, it bursts with enough force to echo like a cannon blast. The lake’s size helps carry the sound across nearby hills. The explanation shows how geology can create mysteries that last for generations.
Heavy habit: A neuroscience group in the U.S. designed a phone case meant to curb constant scrolling by making the device far too heavy to use comfortably during normal daily routines. Weighing about six pounds (2.7 kg), a metal shell locks around a phone with screws, turning it into a solid block that’s awkward to lift and impossible to slip into a pocket. Testers said the extra weight pushed them to put their phones down more often, which encouraged the team to refine the idea and keep improving it. The case still lets people call and text, but only if they’re willing to hold the added load. Makers say the physical strain helps break familiar routines. Some people now view it as a straightforward way to reclaim their attention.
Cactus craft: In Mexico, two designers have turned the prickly pear cactus into a flexible material meant to replace animal leather. The process uses the plant’s large segments, which grow easily in dry regions without added water, making the source simple to maintain. After processing, the material feels smooth and sturdy enough for bags, shoes, and similar goods without relying on plastics. Its texture stays close to traditional leather, offering creators a surface that works much like the original. Because it avoids harsh chemicals, the cactus-based option has attracted brands searching for greener materials. The creators also hope it will be used for furniture and car interiors, expanding its possibilities.
Bubble canvas: Artist Bradley Hart creates detailed images using sheets of bubble wrap instead of a flat canvas, treating each air pocket like a tiny pixel. He injects acrylic paint into the bubbles, working carefully so colours blend and shift when viewed from a distance. Up close, the surface looks repetitive and mechanical, but stepping back reveals portraits and scenes that feel almost familiar. The process takes patience and focus, with thousands of small choices shaping each finished work. Hart is drawn to how colour resolves in the eye rather than on the surface itself. His subjects range from figures like Albert Einstein and Michael Jackson to reworked versions of classic paintings.
“You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress at the same time.” - Sophia Bush
“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” - Oscar Wilde
“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” - Oscar Wilde
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (no attachments). Deadline Mondays noon.
Second Hand Hope Invites You to ‘Back to School’: Sale held until August 28. 7 unclaimed hotel items for $20. On select items & in store only. 426 William St.
Sea Glass Jewelry Workshop: Learn the history & beauty of sea glass in this hands-on workshop. Design your very own stunning piece of jewelry using locally sourced sea glass. No experience necessary. Aug. 29, 2-3:15pm at Maritime Museum of BC, 744 Douglas. Register at: mmbc.bc.ca
Gordon Head Garden Club meet Sept. 2, 7-9pm in the Gordon Head Lawn Bowling Club building, 4105 Lambrick Way. Visitors welcome at no charge. Parlour show, raffle & speaker program.
Four Friends Having Fun: Welcoming visitors to view paintings & share stories in the ArtSea Gallery, 9565 5th St., Sidney, Sept. 4-10, 10am-4pm. Info, email: ssarens@shaw.ca
Love to Sing? Save These Dates: Thursdays, September 5, 12 & 19, from 6:45-9pm when Avalon Singers does intake rehearsals. An all female adult community choir who sing a wide variety of music. For location & more info., visit www.AvalonSingers.com
Victoria Arion Male Choir Open Houses: Monday’s September 7, 14 & 21, 7pm. Visit: www.vamc.ca or email: info@vamc.ca
Victoria Psychic Fair: Held at the Bay Centre October 1st-7th, during mall hours. Meet gifted psychics, mediums & spiritual readers from across Vancouver Island. For more info, visit: www.victoriapsychicfair.com
Crafts From the Crypt Fair: Save the dates! Held Sat., Oct. 3, 10am-5pm & Sun., Oct. 4, 10am-4pm. A spooky halloween arts & crafts fair. Admission $5, kids 12 & under free. New location: Saanich Fair Grounds, 1528 Stelly’s Cross Rd., Saanich.
Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Launch: Learn more on September 26, 1:30pm at North Douglas Church, 675 Jolly Place (off Glanford). Please pre-register to: dehaan.charlene@gmail.com
Pianist Needed for a Seniors Choir: Rehearsals are on Wed & Friday afternoons from September to June. For more info, please contact: Judy at 778-422-1701.
Let’s Talk Live Event Series: Meet new people for free every week. On Fridays, 4-6pm, we meet at 965 Kings Rd.; Saturdays, 10am-12pm, we meet at 1110 Government St., & on Sundays, 3-5pm, we meet at 636 Johnson St. For more info, visit: lets-talk.live
Victoria Farmers Market at Moss Street: Held every Saturday until October 31, 10am-2pm at Sir James Douglas Elementary, 401 Moss St.
Gently Used Hygiene Items: Makeup, personal care, fragrances & more. Sponsored by Soap for Hope, 426B William St. Monday - Friday, 9am-4pm.
Live music! Victoria Folk Music Society weekly gatherings, every Sunday night, 7:30-10pm, Norway House, 1110 Hillside Ave, $8 cash, Everyone welcome www.victoriafolkmusic.ca
Canada Veterans Services Society welcomes Veterans to visit www.cavss.ca to see information on the services we offer, because service never ends.
Victoria Based Collector buys vintage license plates. Call 250-477-4127 or email: JohnMRoberts@telus.net if you have any you wish to sell.
Victoria Men’s Shed ~ Men Helping Men is committed to fostering a community of men in the Greater Victoria area who wish to support one another & engage in projects to benefit each other & the community at large. For more info, visit: victoriamensshed.ca
As an Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualified purchases.
1. Which singer released the album 1989?
2. The Great Barrier Reef is located off the coast of which country?
3. Octopuses have three hearts - T/F?
4. The first iPhone was introduced in what year?
5. In the game Minecraft, players primarily build structures using these.
2. The Great Barrier Reef is located off the coast of which country?
3. Octopuses have three hearts - T/F?
4. The first iPhone was introduced in what year?
5. In the game Minecraft, players primarily build structures using these.
(see bottom for answers)
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Acting impulsively this week may result in you hitting roadblocks. Take a step back and review the situation. Then execute a plan that will create a solid foundation for you. Lucky numbers: 7, 11, 28, 29, 41, 46.
Taurus is known for being both patient and stubborn. Early this week you may be asked to choose which emotion you want to act from, to tackle a frustrating situation. Lucky numbers: 12, 18, 27, 36, 38, 46.
At mid-week, you may find your mind racing with possibilities. It may be difficult to choose between them. Wait a few days. In retrospect, the correct one should emerge. Lucky numbers: 16, 21, 29, 35, 44, 47.
Your emotions may be close to the surface at week’s end. You may have an opportunity to speak with more detachment than you would normally experience in such moments. Lucky numbers: 4, 20, 22, 32, 38, 43.
There may be many opportunities in front of you at the moment. Look to choose the one that is in the highest interests of all concerned, not just your own. Lucky numbers: 6, 13, 26, 33, 38, 44.
This week you will be halfway through your birthday month. Have you broken out of your comfort zone yet and tried something new? If not, what are you waiting for? Lucky numbers: 1, 10, 16, 19, 20, 35.
Libras may tend to give into the other person when conflict arises, just to keep the peace. This week, though, you may feel it is important to stand your ground. Lucky numbers: 9, 12, 14, 29, 34, 37.
The more resistance you run into now, the more you may be tempted to dig in your heels. Can you find a solution that breaks the stalemate for all involved? Lucky numbers: 10, 15, 17, 36, 41, 45.
Your head and heart may be pulling in opposite directions at mid-week. If a resolution is not clear, take a deep breath and wait a few days before acting. Lucky numbers: 2, 4, 5, 9, 10, 38.
Your Capricorn ambition may run up against the needs of someone important to you. Take a deep breath and step back. What compromise would show them how much you care? Lucky numbers: 5, 6, 7, 28, 33, 44.
Jupiter in Leo will be dancing with your Aquarius Sun for the next year. This may be a significant opportunity for personal growth. Just be aware of excess or over-reach. Lucky numbers: 3, 9, 19, 29, 31, 43.
It has been six months since Saturn and Neptune left Pisces. Has this period given you relief or do you feel bereft of their energy? It is important you know which. Lucky numbers: 9, 12, 17, 24, 40, 41.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Leo winners with the luckiest number being 33.
Tire titan: Lego, the well-known toy company, produces more tires than any major tire maker, turning out hundreds of millions each year for its toy vehicles. These small rubber wheels earn Lego the title of the world’s biggest tire manufacturer.
Forest smile: In Oregon (U.S.), a reforestation project once arranged two types of trees into the shape of a giant smiley face. Each fall, their changing colours reveal the cheerful design to anyone traveling through the area.
Colour squirrel: India’s Malabar giant squirrel is known for its striking mix of colours and unusually long body. Living high in the forest canopy, it stores a wide range of foods and uses its bold coat to blend into shifting light among the branches.
Ancient tunes: Early humans carved basic flutes from bird and mammoth bones more than 35,000 years ago. These simple instruments show that people were making organized sound long ago with whatever materials they had.
Painted skies: High above Iceland, nacreous clouds can glow with soft, shimmering colours that change as the light moves. Made of tiny ice crystals in the cold stratosphere, they often form smooth, rolling patterns that give the sky an unusual and striking look.
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The magician was driving down the street, and then poof, he turned into a driveway.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Nana. Nana who? Nana your business.
Did you hear about the kid who ran from Toronto to Vancouver? He needed to west.
Teacher: Where are elephants found?
Student: They are so big, I didn’t think they could get lost!
What’s the most popular game show in the ocean? Whale of Fortune!
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Nana. Nana who? Nana your business.
Did you hear about the kid who ran from Toronto to Vancouver? He needed to west.
Teacher: Where are elephants found?
Student: They are so big, I didn’t think they could get lost!
What’s the most popular game show in the ocean? Whale of Fortune!
Trivia Answers: 1. Taylor Swift 2. Australia 3. True 4. 2007 5. Blocks
PDF Versions of our Publication
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30 Years! 1996 to 2026!
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August 24 - 30, 2026
Greater Victoria Edition
Thank you for reading our Greater Victoria ONLINE edition.
Look for our seven print editions which can be found across Vancouver Island: Parksville/Qualicum, North Nanaimo, Central/South Nanaimo/Ladysmith, Cowichan Valley/Mill Bay, South Saanich/Oak Bay, Victoria/Esquimalt and West Shore. At the bottom of this page you can find PDF versions of those editions. For advertising info... click here.
Tracker pups: A small training group raises dogs in the green hills of Wales to later help protect wildlife on African reserves. The idea started when two trainers saw photos of poached animals and realized their skills could support dedicated conservation work. The young dogs learn to follow scents, stay focused near large animals, and keep calm in busy places, similar to police-trained dogs. When they are ready, they join patrol teams that rely on scent tracking to protect threatened species. Their presence often discourages poachers before trouble starts across wide areas. Many teams stay in touch with the trainers, sharing updates that show how much these dogs can help on a patrol.
Paper retreat: A mechanical engineer in Massachusetts (U.S.) built a small summer house in 1922 using tightly rolled newspapers sealed with varnish for most of the walls and furniture. The place kept a normal wood frame, but nearly everything inside, from tables to clocks, was shaped from old papers that still show readable text today. Visitors can explore the rooms and see how everyday headlines became building material, including a brick-faced fireplace with paper details. Instead of modern displays, the house keeps a simple notebook where guests jot down comments about their visit. Over time, the unusual house has become a local attraction that’s lasted far longer than anyone expected.
Disk rescue: At Cambridge University in Cambridge, England, archivists are working to save files stored on old floppy disks before the data disappears for good. The project began when disks once used by physicist Stephen Hawking arrived at the library. Their tests found that mold, worn surfaces, and weak magnetism can erase information completely. To protect what remains, the team now looks for disks from writers and public figures who relied on early computers. Because each format needs its own machine, collectors help by lending equipment and sharing know-how. More long-forgotten disks appear as people clear out storage, adding small pieces to a fading digital past.
Web metropolis: Deep in a cave near the Greek-Albanian border, researchers found a huge sheet of connected spider webs spread across a narrow passage, forming a single structure built by two different species. The colony holds over 111,000 spiders gathered on the wall, creating numbers rarely seen in one place. Instead of competing, the species share the space and feed on tiny insects that cluster near the cave’s sulphur-rich surfaces. The web itself is made of overlapping funnel-like sections that blend into one massive network. Scientists visit the site to study how creatures adjust to places with almost no light. Even those who dislike spiders might admit the scale is impressive.
“Act tough: what others call tough, I call persistent.” - Estee Lauder
“Success is a science; if you have the conditions,you get the result.”
- Oscar Wilde
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (no attachments). Deadline Mondays noon.
Second Hand Hope Invites You to ‘Back to School’: Sale held until August 28. 7 unclaimed hotel items for $20. On select items & in store only. 426 William St.
Sea Glass Jewelry Workshop: Learn the history & beauty of sea glass in this hands-on workshop. Design your very own stunning piece of jewelry using locally sourced sea glass. No experience necessary. Aug. 29, 2-3:15pm at Maritime Museum of BC, 744 Douglas. Register at: mmbc.bc.ca
Gordon Head Garden Club meet Sept. 2, 7-9pm in the Gordon Head Lawn Bowling Club building, 4105 Lambrick Way. Visitors welcome at no charge. Parlour show, raffle & speaker program.
Love to Sing? Save These Dates: Thursdays, September 5, 12 & 19, from 6:45-9pm when Avalon Singers does intake rehearsals. An all female adult community choir who sing a wide variety of music. For location & more info., visit www.AvalonSingers.com
Crafts From the Crypt Fair: Save the dates! Held Sat., Oct. 3, 10am-5pm & Sun., Oct. 4, 10am-4pm. A spooky halloween arts & crafts fair. Admission $5, kids 12 & under free. New location: Saanich Fair Grounds, 1528 Stelly’s Cross Rd., Saanich.
Can You Sew? Operation Christmas Child in Greater Victoria is looking for people to sew pencil cases for shoebox gifts. If you’re interested, please reach out to dehaan.charlene@gmail.com
Pianist Needed for a Seniors Choir: Rehearsals are on Wed & Friday afternoons from September to June. For more info, please contact: Judy at 778-422-1701.
Let’s Talk Live Event Series: Meet new people for free every week. On Fridays, 4-6pm, we meet at 965 Kings Rd.; Saturdays, 10am-12pm, we meet at 1110 Government St., & on Sundays, 3-5pm, we meet at 636 Johnson St. For more info, visit: lets-talk.live
Victoria Farmers Market at Moss Street: Held every Saturday until October 31, 10am-2pm at Sir James Douglas Elementary, 401 Moss St.
Gently Used Hygiene Items: Makeup, personal care, fragrances & more. Sponsored by Soap for Hope, 426B William St. Monday - Friday, 9am-4pm.
Live music! Victoria Folk Music Society weekly gatherings, every Sunday night, 7:30-10pm, Norway House, 1110 Hillside Ave, $8 cash, Everyone welcome www.victoriafolkmusic.ca
Canada Veterans Services Society welcomes Veterans to visit www.cavss.ca to see information on the services we offer, because service never ends.
Victoria Based Collector buys vintage license plates. Call 250-477-4127 or email: JohnMRoberts@telus.net if you have any you wish to sell.
Victoria Men’s Shed ~ Men Helping Men is committed to fostering a community of men in the Greater Victoria area who wish to support one another & engage in projects to benefit each other & the community at large. For more info, visit: victoriamensshed.ca
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1. Who wrote the original Dracula novel?
2. The Sun god of Egypt is Ra, Helios, or Solar?
3. The home video recorder that competed with VHS tapes was _____.
4. What colour was James Bond’s Aston Martin in the films?
5. You need glasses with one red and one blue lens to watch this.
2. The Sun god of Egypt is Ra, Helios, or Solar?
3. The home video recorder that competed with VHS tapes was _____.
4. What colour was James Bond’s Aston Martin in the films?
5. You need glasses with one red and one blue lens to watch this.
(see bottom for answers)
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You may be tempted this week to act like a ram, bashing your way through a situation. That could likely make it worse. Find the real source of your frustration. Lucky numbers: 3, 5, 9, 14, 23, 37.
Although you may be reluctant to do so, communicating about what has wounded you can be cathartic. But be sure to choose carefully and speak to someone supportive. Lucky numbers: 4, 6, 11, 15, 39, 40.
If you are making a presentation at week’s end, double check that your facts and details are correct. Mistakes could trigger an unnecessary, avoidable conflict. Lucky numbers: 14, 17, 28, 30, 34, 43.
This weekend you may receive a boost of energy to initiate a new endeavour. It doesn’t matter whether it is work related or a fun project. What matters is that you start. Lucky numbers: 2, 6, 7, 9, 16, 29.
You may run into an obstacle early in the week. Breaking through it might require that you go beyond working for your goals and include the needs of others. Lucky numbers: 15, 17, 23, 32, 37, 40.
Have been waiting to initiate a project with a lot of moving parts? Midweek may be the time to do so. You might be able to more easily communicate details to others. Lucky numbers: 6, 8, 17, 25, 35, 39.
If you run into a stalemate at week’s end, you may find that tact and diplomacy don’t achieve the desired result. You might need to take a more aggressive approach. Lucky numbers: 8, 11, 18, 28, 31, 41.
Scorpios often see the darkness and pain in others, and sometimes sympathizing with them is difficult. Midweek energy may heighten your experience of compassion. Lucky numbers: 1, 9, 14, 22, 28, 41.
At week’s end, you may have an itch to begin something new. Consider planning it out first so the project doesn’t fizzle when this energy fades in a few days. Lucky numbers: 12, 17, 25, 27, 39, 41.
Your leadership style often focuses on concrete facts and plans. A more intuitive approach could aid your endeavours midweek, even if it is outside of your comfort zone. Lucky numbers: 1, 5, 24, 25, 34, 42.
Remember that Pluto is making a long-term passage through your sign. This week may include a reminder. Can you make an adjustment for your personal development? Lucky numbers: 5, 6, 16, 17, 40, 48.
This week sees a full moon in your sign. What endeavours might need to be completed and what new ones started? Endings and beginnings are a hallmark of this energy. Lucky numbers: 7, 18, 19, 21, 29, 37.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Virgo winners with the luckiest number being 17.
Shifting stone: In India, the Taj Mahal’s marble can look different as the light changes, giving the building soft tints from morning to evening. Its reflective Makrana stone is the reason for this shift, creating a subtle colour change throughout the day.
Polar palms: Fossil evidence shows that palm trees once grew in what is now subarctic Canada. These tiny plant traces date to roughly 48 million years ago, revealing that the region stayed warm year-round during that era.
Canned fame: Spam, a canned meat product, first hit store shelves in the 1930s and took its name from “spiced ham.” Affordable and long-lasting, it fed soldiers during war and later became famous enough for its own museum.
Border bubbles: Only three countries are completely enclosed by another nation - Vatican City and San Marino inside Italy, and Lesotho within South Africa. Their unusual placement creates small, self-contained pockets with their own identities.
Granite glow: Grand Central Terminal in New York City (U.S.) gives off a tiny bit of radiation from the granite used in its construction. The stone holds small amounts of uranium, yet the levels remain low enough that there is no danger to the public.
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The candle quit its job. It felt burnt out.
Did you hear about the golfer who carries extra trousers in case he gets a hole in one?
Teacher: “Who succeeded the first prime minister?”
Student: “The second one!”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Van. Van who? Van can I see you again?
Who serves ice cream faster than a speeding bullet?
Scooperman!
Did you hear about the golfer who carries extra trousers in case he gets a hole in one?
Teacher: “Who succeeded the first prime minister?”
Student: “The second one!”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Van. Van who? Van can I see you again?
Who serves ice cream faster than a speeding bullet?
Scooperman!
Trivia Answers: 1. Bram Stoker 2. Ra 3. Beta max 4. Silver 5. 3-D movie
PDF Versions of our Publication
- just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants across Vancouver Island.
30 Years! 1996 to 2026!
We would like to thank all our loyal readers, amazing advertisers, devoted delivery drivers and the hundreds of restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, pubs & other locations that have so graciously displayed us.
Thank you ALL so much!
Marco & Charlotte Oscarson
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PRINT versions currently available in:
Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay, Victoria, Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan & Mill Bay.
More areas coming soon!
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August 17 - 23, 2026
Greater Victoria Edition
Thank you for reading our Greater Victoria ONLINE edition.
Look for our seven print editions which can be found across Vancouver Island: Parksville/Qualicum, North Nanaimo, Central/South Nanaimo/Ladysmith, Cowichan Valley/Mill Bay, South Saanich/Oak Bay, Victoria/Esquimalt and West Shore. At the bottom of this page you can find PDF versions of those editions. For advertising info... click here.
Steel giant: A massive mechanical elephant in Nantes, France, has become the unlikely heart of a once-quiet industrial area. The creature carries groups of visitors as it moves slowly between old shipyard buildings that were turned into workshops for imaginative machines. Its designers chose to rebuild the district by filling it with unusual moving creations instead of traditional development. Inside the gallery, workers shape everything from small insects to towering animals, letting guests watch each project take form. The elephant remains the main draw, spraying water as it travels along its route. Its steady loop through the district keeps drawing people back to see what’s new.
Tactile view: Visitors to St. Elmo Castle in Naples, Italy, can find a steel railing engraved with braille that describes the scenery for people who can’t see it. The feature was added by a local artist who wanted everyone to share in the experience, even if they couldn’t view the coastline or city below. As more travellers ask for accessible options, small changes like this show how design can open doors without altering historic sites in significant ways. The railing invites readers to follow its path and imagine the landscape through touch instead of sight. Similar ideas are appearing in other cultural spots, reminding destinations that inclusivity doesn’t need to be complex to make a real impact.
Meal mission: Los Angeles actor and musician Jaden Smith runs the I Love You Restaurant, built on his earlier food-truck project, offering free plant-based meals to people who don’t have steady housing. The idea began with vegan trucks that handed out simple dishes in areas where support services are limited and often stretched thin. At the restaurant, customers who can pay cover their own meal and help fund one for someone else, keeping the service accessible to anyone who needs it. Volunteers help prepare the food each day, keeping the focus on healthy, sustainable options. Smith has described the project in online videos as part of a broader effort to make good meals easier to reach.
Timber craft: In Yorkshire, England, a local woodcarving group is turning fallen city trees into simple handmade items that bring people together. When a large alder tree came down near the town of Shipley, members gathered the wood and brought it to their monthly meet-up. There, beginners and experienced carvers shaped the logs into spoons, bowls, and sturdy mugs, giving the old tree a new purpose. Many members value the donated wood, especially those who do not live close to forested areas. Tree surgeons often share cut branches that would otherwise be thrown away. The club says the work offers steady hands, shared company, and a welcome pause from daily life.
“All serious daring starts from within.” - Eudora Welty
“I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people.” - Vincent Van Gogh
“I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people.” - Vincent Van Gogh
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (no attachments). Deadline Mondays noon.
VegFest Victoria: Held Friday & Saturday, August 14 & 15 at Centennial Square. Over 50 vegan vendors, live music, food, kids zone, speakers & more. Admission by donation. Visit: positivelyvegan.ca/vegfest-victoria
Polish Fest 2026: Held Sun., August 16, noon until 8pm. Polish dancing, singing, beer garden & of course, delicious home-made polish food at the White Eagle Polish Hall, 90 Dock St., James Bay. Free event.
Free Oak Bay Summer Concert in the Park 2026: Experience an unforgettable summer evening at Willows Beach Park, where live music, ocean views & community spirit come together on August 20, 6pm.
Music in the Park - Beacon Hill: Held at the Cameron Bandshell stage on August 21, 1:30pm at 250 Bridge Way. Come down to a chill afternoon in the park, with Victoria’s funky fresh live band & hiphop!
Sea Glass Jewelry Workshop: Learn the history & beauty of sea glass in this hands-on workshop. Design your very own stunning piece of jewelry using locally sourced sea glass. No experience necessary. Aug. 29, 2-3:15pm at Maritime Museum of BC, 744 Douglas. Register at: mmbc.bc.ca
Gordon Head Garden Club meet Sept. 2, 7-9pm in the Gordon Head Lawn Bowling Club building, 4105 Lambrick Way. Visitors welcome at no charge. Parlour show, raffle & speaker program.
Love to Sing? Save These Dates: Thursdays, September 5, 12 & 19, from 6:45-9pm when Avalon Singers does intake rehearsals. An all female adult community choir who sing a wide variety of music. For location & more info., visit www.AvalonSingers.com
Can You Sew? Operation Christmas Child in Greater Victoria is looking for people to sew pencil cases for shoebox gifts. If you’re interested, please reach out to dehaan.charlene@gmail.com
Pianist Needed for a Seniors Choir: Rehearsals are on Wed & Friday afternoons from September to June. For more info, please contact: Judy at 778-422-1701.
Let’s Talk Live Event Series: Meet new people for free every week. On Fridays, 4-6pm, we meet at 965 Kings Rd.; Saturdays, 10am-12pm, we meet at 1110 Government St., & on Sundays, 3-5pm, we meet at 636 Johnson St. For more info, visit: lets-talk.live
Victoria Farmers Market at Moss Street: Held every Saturday until October 31, 10am-2pm at Sir James Douglas Elementary, 401 Moss St.
Gently Used Hygiene Items: Makeup, personal care, fragrances & more. Sponsored by Soap for Hope, 426B William St. Monday - Friday, 9am-4pm.
Live music! Victoria Folk Music Society weekly gatherings, every Sunday night, 7:30-10pm, Norway House, 1110 Hillside Ave, $8 cash, Everyone welcome www.victoriafolkmusic.ca
Canada Veterans Services Society welcomes Veterans to visit www.cavss.ca to see information on the services we offer, because service never ends.
Victoria Based Collector buys vintage license plates. Call 250-477-4127 or email: JohnMRoberts@telus.net if you have any you wish to sell.
Victoria Men’s Shed ~ Men Helping Men is committed to fostering a community of men in the Greater Victoria area who wish to support one another & engage in projects to benefit each other & the community at large. For more info, visit: victoriamensshed.ca
As an Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualified purchases.
1. Who wrote the song “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald”?
2. How many toes does a camel have on each foot?
3. Matt Damon played this Robert Ludlum character in four movies.
4. Kite flying is a professional sport in Thailand - T/F?
5. This is made from the chemical reaction of fat and ashes.
2. How many toes does a camel have on each foot?
3. Matt Damon played this Robert Ludlum character in four movies.
4. Kite flying is a professional sport in Thailand - T/F?
5. This is made from the chemical reaction of fat and ashes.
(see bottom for answers)
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Getting what you want requires that you do the necessary hard work. You may receive an energy boost this week to do so. But be sure your goal matches your values. Lucky numbers: 3, 14, 16, 21, 37, 40.
The energy for the next month may give you an opportunity to begin to heal an old emotional wound. This might be the beginning of a long-term process. Lucky numbers: 10, 19, 20, 22, 23, 44.
You may experience a temporary set back for the next few weeks in manifesting your goals. Patience and flexibility could help you get through this period. Lucky numbers: 12, 18, 23, 28, 35, 39.
Your emotions should be well grounded, anchoring you over the next month. Before this energy dissipates, consider how to take advantage of this to accomplish a goal. Lucky numbers: 1, 2, 9, 14, 17, 45.
A beneficial energy is available early this week. You could use it to have fun, but you also might be able to accomplish something significant, if you do the work. Lucky numbers: 15, 24, 33, 36, 39, 44.
Your birthday month is a good time to evaluate your prior year accomplishments and set goals for the new year. Consider breaking out of your comfort zone. Lucky numbers: 6, 8, 11, 13, 22, 40.
For the next month, it is important that you not overlook the details to get to what appears to be a win-win result. Otherwise, the agreement may fall apart. Lucky numbers: 5, 17, 28, 36, 37, 46.
Your intuition may be in high gear for a few days early in the week. If it’s overwhelming, withdraw from the world as much as possible. Self care is important. Lucky numbers: 7, 10, 17, 19, 26, 28.
While your energy may be at a low point now, a temporary, midweek reprieve may happen for a few days. If you can accomplish something quickly, take advantage of it. Lucky numbers: 13, 15, 28, 31, 34, 39..
Your ambition may be heightened for a few days at the end of the week. Apply this energy, before it passes, to whatever might need a boost to be successful. Lucky numbers: 8, 9, 26, 34, 38, 43.
Are you having difficulty getting acceptance for your goals? It may be helpful to make an adjustment to flesh out the details, in order to gain the confidence of others. Lucky numbers: 2, 10, 12, 20, 37, 43.
It has been about six months since your birthday. Did you set new goals then? Now is a good time to evaluate your successes and make changes to what isn’t. Lucky numbers: 15, 16, 20, 21, 22, 43.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Leo winners with the luckiest number being 33.
Water divide: Salty ocean water makes up about 97% of Earth’s water, leaving only a small fraction of fresh water in ice, groundwater, and surface sources. That tiny share supports drinking supplies worldwide and most everyday uses.
Silent suits: During a spacewalk, an astronaut’s suit uses low-pressure air, which is much thinner than what we breathe on Earth. With so little air moving past the lips, a whistle can’t form at all, no matter how hard astronauts may try.
Ancient ache: Egypt’s early dentists faced constant tooth wear from gritty foods, so they turned to remedies like crushed minerals and natural rinses. Their simple mixtures aimed to ease discomfort and keep mouths healthier despite a harsh diet.
Coral heart: Heart Reef is a naturally formed, heart-shaped coral patch in the Whitsundays, sitting within Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. A pilot first noticed its outline during a flight, and today it is protected, so people view it only from the air.
Tropical twist: Despite its name, Hawaiian pizza was invented in Ontario (Canada) by a Greek-born restaurateur who decided to top a cheese pizza with pineapple and ham. The sweet-and-salty experiment sparked a debate that still divides pizza lovers today.
Our Books are NOW AVAILABLE on Amazon!
How many ants do you need to fill a rented apartment?
Ten-ants.
Note to self: Thanks for always being there!
Mike: “Uh-oh, I just made an illegal left turn.”
Ike: “That’s okay, so did the policeman behind you.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Weed. Weed who? Weed better go home - it’s time for lunch!
The invisible man tried to lie to me, but I saw right through him.
Ten-ants.
Note to self: Thanks for always being there!
Mike: “Uh-oh, I just made an illegal left turn.”
Ike: “That’s okay, so did the policeman behind you.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Weed. Weed who? Weed better go home - it’s time for lunch!
The invisible man tried to lie to me, but I saw right through him.
Trivia Answers: 1. Gordon Lightfoot 2. Two 3. Jason Bourne 4. True
5. Soap
PDF Versions of our Publication
- just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants across Vancouver Island.
30 Years! 1996 to 2026!
We would like to thank all our loyal readers, amazing advertisers, devoted delivery drivers and the hundreds of restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, pubs & other locations that have so graciously displayed us.
Thank you ALL so much!
Marco & Charlotte Oscarson
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
PRINT versions currently available in:
Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay, Victoria, Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan & Mill Bay.
More areas coming soon!
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August 10 - 16, 2026
Greater Victoria Edition
Thank you for reading our Greater Victoria ONLINE edition.
Look for our seven print editions which can be found across Vancouver Island: Parksville/Qualicum, North Nanaimo, Central/South Nanaimo/Ladysmith, Cowichan Valley/Mill Bay, South Saanich/Oak Bay, Victoria/Esquimalt and West Shore. At the bottom of this page you can find PDF versions of those editions. For advertising info... click here.
Rain roof: Fresh water is gathered in a way that’s become part of everyday life in Bermuda, and central to how homes are built. Because there are no lakes or rivers, each house uses a stepped white roof to catch rainfall and guide it into an underground tank for drinking and washing. The method dates back centuries and is still used on new buildings. Builders carve the roof slabs from the same limestone used for the foundation, letting the stone help cool the house in hot weather. During storms, the sturdy design holds up well, which is one reason the tradition hasn’t changed. Many families still watch their tank levels closely, knowing their roof is the main reason the island can support so many people.
Cow groove: On a farm near Bolton, England, a local jazz group recently played a live set for a herd of dairy cows to test whether gentle music might support better milk production. Staff invited the sextet after hearing that slower tunes could influence how comfortably the animals settle while feeding. The musicians mixed lively pieces with quieter ones as the cows wandered closer, watching from behind the fence. Several of the cows lingered nearby throughout the performance, seeming to take an interest in the shifting rhythms. The idea came after a short online video showed the animals responding well to recorded music. Farmers say the trial added a light moment to the day and may guide future routines.
Auction spotlight: Three landscape paintings by artist Bob Ross brought in about $600,000 (USD) at a U.S. fundraiser for public television, renewing interest in the gentle painter behind the long-running art show. The pieces came from a carefully held collection that preserved many of the scenes he became known for throughout his career. His calm style still attracts viewers, even though his work rarely appears in major auctions. The paintings were released to support stations facing budget pressure, and the bids rose quickly. Some discovered Ross through online videos, while others watched him on TV, but they’re still drawn to his approach. The success has encouraged organizers to offer more pieces later on.
Beaver builders: A beaver colony in the Brdy region of the Czech Republic surprised officials by finishing a series of natural dams long before any planned construction could begin. Their work formed a wetland in the exact spot where a major restoration project was meant to take place, saving authorities a significant amount of funding in the process. The animals used an old gully that once carried water away from the area, turning it into a calm set of pools that help many species thrive. While agencies were still sorting out permits, the beavers simply moved ahead on their own. The result shows how animals sometimes solve problems long before people finish talking about them.
“You have to be where you are to get where you need to go.”
- Amy Poehler
“One child, one teacher, one book, and one pen can change the world.” - Malala Yousafzai
- Amy Poehler
“One child, one teacher, one book, and one pen can change the world.” - Malala Yousafzai
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (no attachments). Deadline Mondays noon.
VegFest Victoria: Held Friday & Saturday, August 14 & 15 at Centennial Square. Over 50 vegan vendors, live music, food, kids zone, speakers & more. Admission by donation. Visit: positivelyvegan.ca/vegfest-victoria
Polish Fest 2026: Held Sun., August 16, noon until 8pm. Polish dancing, singing, beer garden & of course, delicious home-made polish food at the White Eagle Polish Hall, 90 Dock St., James Bay. Free event.
Free Oak Bay Summer Concert in the Park 2026: Experience an unforgettable summer evening at Willows Beach Park, where live music, ocean views & community spirit come together on August 20, 6pm.
Music in the Park - Beacon Hill: Held at the Cameron Bandshell stage on August 21, 1:30pm at 250 Bridge Way. Come down to a chill afternoon in the park, with Victoria’s funky fresh live band & hiphop!
Sea Glass Jewelry Workshop: Learn the history & beauty of sea glass in this hands-on workshop. Design your very own stunning piece of jewelry using locally sourced sea glass. No experience necessary. Aug. 29, 2-3:15pm at Maritime Museum of BC, 744 Douglas. Register at: mmbc.bc.ca
Can You Sew? Operation Christmas Child in Greater Victoria is looking for people to sew pencil cases for shoebox gifts. If you’re interested, please reach out to dehaan.charlene@gmail.com
Pianist Needed for a Seniors Choir: Rehearsals are on Wed & Friday afternoons from September to June. For more info, please contact: Judy at 778-422-1701.
Let’s Talk Live Event Series: Meet new people for free every week. On Fridays, 4-6pm, we meet at 965 Kings Rd.; Saturdays, 10am-12pm, we meet at 1110 Government St., & on Sundays, 3-5pm, we meet at 636 Johnson St. For more info, visit: lets-talk.live
Victoria Farmers Market at Moss Street: Held every Saturday until October 31, 10am-2pm at Sir James Douglas Elementary, 401 Moss St.
Gently Used Hygiene Items: Makeup, personal care, fragrances & more. Sponsored by Soap for Hope, 426B William St. Monday - Friday, 9am-4pm.
Live music! Victoria Folk Music Society weekly gatherings, every Sunday night, 7:30-10pm, Norway House, 1110 Hillside Ave, $8 cash, Everyone welcome www.victoriafolkmusic.ca
Canada Veterans Services Society welcomes Veterans to visit www.cavss.ca to see information on the services we offer, because service never ends.
Victoria Based Collector buys vintage license plates. Call 250-477-4127 or email: JohnMRoberts@telus.net if you have any you wish to sell.
Victoria Men’s Shed ~ Men Helping Men is committed to fostering a community of men in the Greater Victoria area who wish to support one another & engage in projects to benefit each other & the community at large. For more info, visit: victoriamensshed.ca
As an Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualified purchases.
1. George Lucas directed not only Star Wars: A New Hope but also American _____.
2. Your body contains enough iron to make a nail - T/F?
3. Benjamin Franklin flew this in a thunderstorm to understand electric charge.
4. The Spring Equinox is the longest day of the year - T/F?
5. Michael Jordan played basketball for the Bulls, Celtics, or Lakers?
2. Your body contains enough iron to make a nail - T/F?
3. Benjamin Franklin flew this in a thunderstorm to understand electric charge.
4. The Spring Equinox is the longest day of the year - T/F?
5. Michael Jordan played basketball for the Bulls, Celtics, or Lakers?
(see bottom for answers)
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This week may be a good time to communicate with others about your life goals. However, be considerate of those close to you who may not be fully on board. Lucky numbers: 9, 10, 12, 18, 29, 42.
This week you may have conflict with others. Resist temptation to aggressively respond. Is the dynamic triggering an emotional wound buried in your consciousness? Lucky numbers: 1, 9, 13, 18, 24, 37.
Is there a project close to your heart that you haven’t yet been able to manifest? Speaking with others about it this week may present an opportunity to jumpstart it. Lucky numbers: 8, 14, 27, 30, 34, 43.
The next month may give you an opportunity to play a new, nurturing role with others. Just be aware that not everyone will accept and act upon your advice. Lucky numbers:4, 5, 29, 44, 47, 48.
This week may include beginnings or endings, the full effect of which you may not immediately see. Flowing with this change might not be easy but is necessary. Lucky numbers: 9, 14, 36, 40, 44, 48.
Your attention to detail may be heightened midweek. Use the dynamic to help your endeavours. But be careful about being a perfectionist, with yourself or others. Lucky numbers: 16, 17, 25, 26, 30, 39.
Your Libra charm may be enhanced as the week unfolds, heightening your ability to successfully ask for what you want. First, consider what you truly desire. Lucky numbers: 3, 18, 28, 29, 30, 42.
Your ambition may be boosted this week. Consider how to take advantage of it, but avoid temptation to manipulate the situation to disadvantage others involved. Lucky numbers: 5, 6, 12, 30, 39, 41.
Your natural enthusiasm may be dampened for a few weeks. This might be a chance to adjust your view point about what you realistically will be able to accomplish. Lucky numbers: 7, 24, 32, 36, 43, 47.
A relationship may be your focus for the next several months. It might be time to review what is and is not working for you. Then discuss it with your partner. Lucky numbers: 2, 5, 17, 30, 35, 48.
You may be eager now to manifest a goal close to your heart. A new beginning might be on the horizon but consider waiting a few weeks before proceeding. Lucky numbers: 6, 18, 22, 37, 39, 44.
Your intuition and empathy may be short circuited at midweek. This could be disturbing, but consider how to ground these skills more effectively in the future. Lucky numbers: 11, 20, 22, 32, 42, 46.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Libra winners with the luckiest number being 3.
Dusty drizzle: So-called “blood rain” isn’t actually as mysterious as it sounds. The phenomenon occurs when desert dust mixes with passing rain clouds, tinting the drops and leaving behind a thin, reddish film. The rare effect can travel far on the wind.
Penny pick: Portland, Oregon (U.S.), got its name from a coin flip after two founders disagreed on what to call their new settlement. One wanted to honour his hometown of Boston, while the other hoped to use the name Portland, and the winning toss decided it.
Border pull: About 90% of Canadians live within roughly 160 kilometres (100 mi.) of the U.S. border. This broad stretch offers gentler weather and easier connections, which is why most of the country’s largest cities grew there rather than farther north.
Giant bloom: A rare plant in Indonesia’s rainforests produces the world’s largest single flower, stretching several feet across. The Rafflesia arnoldii draws nutrients from a host plant and releases a powerful scent that makes its presence hard to miss.
Bread beginnings: The sandwich may be named after an English earl, but people have been eating bread filled with food for centuries. From ancient flatbreads to modern subs and PB&Js, the idea of stacking flavours between bread has never gone out of style.
Our Books are NOW AVAILABLE on Amazon!
What do you call a girl with a frog on her head? Lily.
I changed my cell phone name to Titanic. It’s syncing now.
I had a pun about misplacement, but I lost it.
Customer: “Do you have any camouflage jackets?”
Clerk: “We have dozens but I can’t find them.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Apple. Apple who? Apple on the door and it still won’t open!
I changed my cell phone name to Titanic. It’s syncing now.
I had a pun about misplacement, but I lost it.
Customer: “Do you have any camouflage jackets?”
Clerk: “We have dozens but I can’t find them.”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Apple. Apple who? Apple on the door and it still won’t open!
Trivia Answers: 1. Graffiti 2. True 3. Kite 4. False, Summer Solstice 5. Bulls
PDF Versions of our Publication
- just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants across Vancouver Island.
30 Years! 1996 to 2026!
We would like to thank all our loyal readers, amazing advertisers, devoted delivery drivers and the hundreds of restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, pubs & other locations that have so graciously displayed us.
Thank you ALL so much!
Marco & Charlotte Oscarson
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PRINT versions currently available in:
Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay, Victoria, Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan & Mill Bay.
More areas coming soon!
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August 3 - 9, 2026
Greater Victoria Edition
Thank you for reading our Greater Victoria ONLINE edition.
In print, Coffee News is published with three separate editions in Greater Victoria (South Saanich/Oak Bay, Victoria/Esquimalt, West Shore) and four separate editions in the Mid Island region (Parksville/Qualicum, North Nanaimo, Central/South Nanaimo/Ladysmith, Cowichan Valley/Mill Bay). At the bottom of this page you can find PDF versions of those editions. To advertise in print editions click here.
Peanut patch: A long-running study has found that a simple skin patch can help toddlers become less reactive to peanuts by introducing tiny amounts of peanut protein through the skin. The treatment guides the immune system to handle small exposures, lowering the chance of a dangerous reaction from an accident. Children who started on a placebo later used the real patch and showed steady gains as their tolerance improved. Many could handle small amounts of peanuts without strong symptoms, and the patch’s safety record stayed solid throughout the treatment. Mild skin irritation was the most common issue. Parents still need medical guidance, but the results point to a practical way of reducing risk.
Roman routes: A group of researchers has built a detailed online map showing the old roads stretching across the Roman world, working much like a Google Maps-style guide for ancient travel. Their project used records, landscape studies, and satellite images to create a clearer view of how people once moved across long distances. The map displays major routes and smaller paths, making it easier to picture trips between far-off cities. It also adjusts earlier guesses by following natural terrain, since Roman roads often curved around mountains. Travellers can explore these ancient paths much like modern directions, seeing how roads linked distant regions. It’s a simple tool that helps bring the empire’s movement to life.
Pattern heritage: In a village in Burkina Faso, families build thick earthen homes that are later coated with painted designs reflecting Kassena traditions. Men shape the walls during the dry months, and before the rains arrive, the community gathers so women can add protective and decorative patterns. The oldest women choose the designs, and younger helpers learn by taking part in the work. Local pigments provide red, white, and black colours with meanings tied to courage, honesty, and the unseen world. Symbols range from animals to simple shapes linked to daily life. As people walk through the clustered homes, they see how practical construction has become a way for the community to show its shared culture.
Bird guard: In Menlo Park, California (U.S.), schools have turned to life-size coyote statues to keep crows and geese from covering play areas with droppings. The idea came from a Canadian suggestion that these figures help scare off geese in public parks, and staff hoped the same trick would help their fields stay clean. Once placed near lunch spots and open spaces, the models quickly reduced the mess that custodians had struggled with for years. Nearby schools later added their own statues after seeing the results. Some neighbours even phoned in warnings before learning the coyotes were fake, adding humour to the mix. The statues now stand as easy, low-maintenance helpers for busy campuses.
“I don’t go by a rule book... I lead from the heart, not the head.”
- Princess Diana
“It’s no wonder that truth is stranger than fiction. Fiction has to make sense.” - Mark Twain
- Princess Diana
“It’s no wonder that truth is stranger than fiction. Fiction has to make sense.” - Mark Twain
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (no attachments). Deadline Mondays noon.
32nd Annual Arts & Music in the Gardens 2026: Presented by the Horticulture Centre of the Pacific, our largest fundraiser & one of Victoria’s most cherished art events is held August 8 & 9, 9am-4pm at 505 Quayle Rd. Live music, vendors & food trucks. Admission $12.
VegFest Victoria: Held Friday & Saturday, August 14 & 15 at Centennial Square. Over 50 vegan vendors, live music, food, kids zone, speakers & more. Admission by donation. Visit: positivelyvegan.ca/vegfest-victoria
Polish Fest 2026: Held Sun., August 16, noon until 8pm. Polish dancing, singing, beer garden & of course, delicious home-made polish food at the White Eagle Polish Hall, 90 Dock St., James Bay. Free event.
Can You Sew? Operation Christmas Child in Greater Victoria is looking for people to sew pencil cases for shoebox gifts. If you’re interested, please reach out to dehaan.charlene@gmail.com
Pianist Needed for a Seniors Choir: Rehearsals are on Wed & Friday afternoons from September to June. For more info, please contact: Judy at 778-422-1701.
Let’s Talk Live Event Series: Meet new people for free every week. On Fridays, 4-6pm, we meet at 965 Kings Rd.; Saturdays, 10am-12pm, we meet at 1110 Government St., & on Sundays, 3-5pm, we meet at 636 Johnson St. For more info, visit: lets-talk.live
Victoria Farmers Market at Moss Street: Held every Saturday until October 31, 10am-2pm at Sir James Douglas Elementary, 401 Moss St.
Gently Used Hygiene Items: Makeup, personal care, fragrances & more. Sponsored by Soap for Hope, 426B William St. Monday - Friday, 9am-4pm.
Live music! Victoria Folk Music Society weekly gatherings, every Sunday night, 7:30-10pm, Norway House, 1110 Hillside Ave, $8 cash, Everyone welcome www.victoriafolkmusic.ca
Canada Veterans Services Society welcomes Veterans to visit www.cavss.ca to see information on the services we offer, because service never ends.
Victoria Based Collector buys vintage license plates. Call 250-477-4127 or email: JohnMRoberts@telus.net if you have any you wish to sell.
Victoria Men’s Shed ~ Men Helping Men is committed to fostering a community of men in the Greater Victoria area who wish to support one another & engage in projects to benefit each other & the community at large. For more info, visit: victoriamensshed.ca
As an Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualified purchases.
1. This children’s author originated the word “nerd”?
2. Including its pedestal, is the Statue of Liberty 100, 215, or 305 feet tall?
3. A cucumber is a fruit - T/F?
4. Who wrote Peter Pan?
5. SONAR stands for ______ navigation and ranging.
2. Including its pedestal, is the Statue of Liberty 100, 215, or 305 feet tall?
3. A cucumber is a fruit - T/F?
4. Who wrote Peter Pan?
5. SONAR stands for ______ navigation and ranging.
(see bottom for answers)
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Chiron, a minor planet, is briefly occupying Taurus, after a long transit to Aries Sun. Consider how to use this aspect to evaluate your healing journey right now. Lucky numbers: 7, 13, 15, 16, 40, 42.
When Chiron enters Taurus, it will interact with your Sun over the next eight years. During this opening salvo, consider what is needed to heal old emotional wounds. Lucky numbers: 1, 10, 14, 16, 23, 44.
You may be tempted midweek to aggressively talk your way through a situation. Softening your style might be more productive, in the long run, for all concerned. Lucky numbers: 15, 16, 18, 23, 40, 47.
Your emotions may be running high at the week’s end. Consider retreating then, to regroup and reset. This could help you start next week with a calmer attitude. Lucky numbers: 6, 10, 13, 24, 33, 40.
For a few weeks, you may find that what you say is very persuasive to others. In negotiating, resist temptation to manoeuvre the situation solely in your favour. Lucky numbers: 10, 14, 19, 30, 43, 45.
Virgos are known for attention to detail. But sometimes your presentation would benefit from more pizzazz. The next few weeks may offer you such an opportunity. Lucky numbers: 8, 11, 13, 22, 35, 39..
The next month may offer you a chance to focus on romantic love. This might help if you are looking for a partner or to improve a current relationship. Lucky numbers: 5, 12, 27, 39, 42, 45.
Early this week, you may be engaged with someone whose agenda you oppose. If you can’t find common ground, perhaps wait a few days before making any decisions. Lucky numbers: 4, 6, 7, 11, 24, 34.
You may find yourself faced with several options at midweek. Sort through the pros and cons, but consider postponing any definitive action for a few days. Lucky numbers: 10, 11, 13, 17, 26, 46.
You may find yourself torn between your head and your heart for a few days at week’s end. Might you be able to find a compromise that meets the needs of both? Lucky numbers: 9, 17, 27, 28, 42, 44.
Sometimes it is difficult for Aquarius to communicate their lofty goals in ways that inspire others. The next few weeks may offer you an opportunity to do this. Lucky numbers: 16, 25, 31, 33, 34, 35.
Pisces has esoteric insights that may be hard to describe to others with a more mundane lens. For the next few weeks, would adjusting your viewpoint help with this? Lucky numbers: 2, 3, 18, 23, 35, 43.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Leo winners with the luckiest number being 30.
Colour squirrel: India’s Malabar giant squirrel is known for its striking mix of colours and unusually long body. Living high in the forest canopy, it stores a wide range of foods and uses its bold coat to blend into shifting light among the branches.
Ancient tunes: Early humans carved basic flutes from bird and mammoth bones more than 35,000 years ago. These simple instruments show that people were making organized sound long ago with whatever materials they could obtain.
Luck tap: People often knock on wood after saying something optimistic, as a ritual to keep misfortune away. One theory links the habit to early beliefs that trees held protective spirits, so tapping the wood was seen as a way to ask for support.
Sand ban: Some Spanish beaches have outlawed casual sandcastle building, turning a childhood pastime into a ticketed offence. The rule aims to keep the shoreline clear, meaning even a simple tower might require official permission first.
Bark spice: Cinnamon starts as the inner bark of select tropical trees, trimmed away in thin sheets, and dried and rolled into the sticks we know. This simple preparation keeps the bark usable, allowing its natural warm aroma to shine when added to food.
Our Books are NOW AVAILABLE on Amazon!
Dad: “I was a lot better at history than you are.”
Son: “Well, there was a lot less of it then!”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Aaron. Aaron who? Aaron on the barbershop floor.
Why do refrigerators hum? They don’t know the words.
Sign outside of an exterminator: We make mouse calls!
An amoeba walks into a bar. The bartender says, “Pay your tab before you split.”
Son: “Well, there was a lot less of it then!”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Aaron. Aaron who? Aaron on the barbershop floor.
Why do refrigerators hum? They don’t know the words.
Sign outside of an exterminator: We make mouse calls!
An amoeba walks into a bar. The bartender says, “Pay your tab before you split.”
Trivia Answers: 1. Dr. Seuss 2. 305 3. True 4. J.M. Barrie
5. Sound
5. Sound
PDF Versions of our Publication
- just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants across Vancouver Island.
30 Years! 1996 to 2026!
We would like to thank all our loyal readers, amazing advertisers, devoted delivery drivers and the hundreds of restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, pubs & other locations that have so graciously displayed us.
Thank you ALL so much!
Marco & Charlotte Oscarson
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PRINT versions currently available in:
Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay, Victoria, Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan & Mill Bay.
More areas coming soon!
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July 27 - August 2, 2026
Greater Victoria Edition
Thank you for reading our Greater Victoria ONLINE edition.
In print, Coffee News is published with three separate editions in Greater Victoria (South Saanich/Oak Bay, Victoria/Esquimalt, West Shore) and four separate editions in the Mid Island region (Parksville/Qualicum, North Nanaimo, Central/South Nanaimo/Ladysmith, Cowichan Valley/Mill Bay). At the bottom of this page you can find PDF versions of those editions. To advertise in print editions click here.
Heritage hold: In western Germany, Eltz Castle stands above a looping river and has remained under one family’s care for roughly eight centuries. Different branches of the family once lived in linked sections, maintaining shared spaces through a cooperative arrangement that kept the property unified. That stability helped it avoid the conflicts that dismantled many older estates. Its mix of architectural styles reflects centuries of gradual changes shaped by the needs of its residents. Inside, furnished rooms still display artwork and heirlooms that survived shifting eras. The surrounding forest is protected as well, allowing visitors to see a landmark maintained through steady, long-term stewardship.
Alloy leap: Engineers exploring new metal mixes have created a 3D-printed aluminum blend that stays firm under high heat and remains much lighter than materials often used in aircraft parts. Their process relied on computer tools to narrow down promising combinations before shaping the final mixture layer by layer. The printed version formed tightly packed structures that held their strength during testing, surprising the team with how durable it became. Because of its heat tolerance, the new metal could help replace heavier pieces found in engines and other equipment. If adopted widely, its lighter weight could make future machines more efficient without altering how they look or work.
Land link: Along Turkey’s northern Aegean coast, archaeologists have uncovered stone tools that suggest early humans once crossed a land route now hidden beneath the sea. The finds came from several spots near Ayvalık, showing people lived and travelled across terrain that later sank as waters rose. The region’s shifting ground had long made evidence hard to detect, leaving major gaps in research. These tools, shaped in styles seen across Africa, Asia, and Europe, hint that this coastline may have offered another path into the continent. The research team that led the excavation believes future studies may uncover even more evidence. The results place Ayvalık on the map as a possible link in early human movement.
Glass mystery: A bargain purchase from a small thrift shop in the town of Moffat, Scotland, led an antiques hunter to a windowpane that may have once belonged to King Robert the Bruce in the 1300s. After cleaning away layers of grime, he uncovered a detailed figure surrounded by Latin text naming the Scottish ruler. Curious about its age, he contacted specialists who noted the medieval style of the paintwork and panel construction. Some historians suggested it might have been part of a castle linked to the king’s campaigns across the region. The finder hopes the piece will be studied more closely, since its preserved condition suggests it may hold useful clues about where it truly came from.
“Truth is powerful and it prevails” - Sojourner Truth
“By forgetting the past and by throwing myself into other interests, I forget to worry.” - Jack Dempsey
“By forgetting the past and by throwing myself into other interests, I forget to worry.” - Jack Dempsey
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (no attachments). Deadline Mondays noon.
32nd Annual Arts & Music in the Gardens 2026: Presented by the Horticulture Centre of the Pacific, our largest fundraiser & one of Victoria’s most cherished art events is held August 8 & 9, 9am-4pm at 505 Quayle Rd. Live music, vendors & food trucks. Admission $12.
VegFest Victoria: Held Friday & Saturday, August 14 & 15 at Centennial Square. Over 50 vegan vendors, live music, food, kids zone, speakers & more. Admission by donation. Visit: positivelyvegan.ca/vegfest-victoria
Can You Sew? Operation Christmas Child in Greater Victoria is looking for people to sew pencil cases for shoebox gifts. If you’re interested, please reach out to dehaan.charlene@gmail.com
Pianist Needed for a Seniors Choir: Rehearsals are on Wed & Friday afternoons from September to June. For more info, please contact: Judy at 778-422-1701.
Let’s Talk Live Event Series: Meet new people for free every week. On Fridays, 4-6pm, we meet at 965 Kings Rd.; Saturdays, 10am-12pm, we meet at 1110 Government St., & on Sundays, 3-5pm, we meet at 636 Johnson St. For more info, visit: lets-talk.live
Victoria Farmers Market at Moss Street: Held every Saturday until October 31, 10am-2pm at Sir James Douglas Elementary, 401 Moss St.
Gently Used Hygiene Items: Makeup, personal care, fragrances & more. Sponsored by Soap for Hope, 426B William St. Monday - Friday, 9am-4pm.
Live music! Victoria Folk Music Society weekly gatherings, every Sunday night, 7:30-10pm, Norway House, 1110 Hillside Ave, $8 cash, Everyone welcome www.victoriafolkmusic.ca
Canada Veterans Services Society welcomes Veterans to visit www.cavss.ca to see information on the services we offer, because service never ends.
Victoria Based Collector buys vintage license plates. Call 250-477-4127 or email: JohnMRoberts@telus.net if you have any you wish to sell.
Victoria Men’s Shed ~ Men Helping Men is committed to fostering a community of men in the Greater Victoria area who wish to support one another & engage in projects to benefit each other & the community at large. For more info, visit: victoriamensshed.ca
As an Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualified purchases.
1. Mozart began composing music when he was __ years old.
2. In chess, the game is over when this piece is checkmated.
3. Potter Philip Grieble invented the bird bath, garden gnome, or travel mug?
4. The word “berserk” comes from Viking warriors called Berserkers - T/F?
5. Which vegetable’s popularity increased because of the comic Popeye?
2. In chess, the game is over when this piece is checkmated.
3. Potter Philip Grieble invented the bird bath, garden gnome, or travel mug?
4. The word “berserk” comes from Viking warriors called Berserkers - T/F?
5. Which vegetable’s popularity increased because of the comic Popeye?
(see bottom for answers)
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The usual caution for Aries is to avoid being too impatient. However, the energy at the start of this week gives you a green light to pursue your highest goals. Lucky numbers: 1, 12, 17, 29, 38, 44.
A Taurus often relies on their physical senses in decision making and taking action. But midweek, you may have an opportunity to integrate a more intuitive approach. Lucky numbers: 6, 12, 13, 25, 40, 47.
You may be in a stalemate early in the week regarding an important relationship. A resolution might be possible, but you need to keep your ego out of the situation. Lucky numbers: 5, 6, 11, 23, 24, 27.
At midweek, your emotions may want to take the reins. This might be a good time to process your feelings, but consider waiting a few days for any important decisions. Lucky numbers: 2, 4, 7, 19, 22, 38.
Your natural enthusiasm may get a midweek boost. Take advantage of opportunities, but be cautious about overdoing the situation. It may come back to bite you. Lucky numbers: 7, 11, 13, 26, 32, 41.
At midweek, your normal grounded nature and attention to detail may be disrupted. Things could return to normal in a few days. Use this time for a much needed break. Lucky numbers: 8, 19, 20, 25, 42, 46.
Is there something you want to do but haven’t been able to summon the courage to begin? The energy at week’s end might give you the boost you need. Lucky numbers: 13, 30, 32, 41, 43, 44.
Scorpio intuition may offer insights into the shadow side of others, which can be difficult to process. Midweek energy could help you find compassion. Lucky numbers: 4, 8, 23, 30, 42, 47.
You may get a significant boost of energy at week’s end. This might help you accomplish more than usual, but only if you are clear about what you want and why. Lucky numbers: 11, 15, 17, 36, 41, 45.
A new opportunity may present itself early in the week. But it might require flexibility on your part, especially to integrate the needs of others into your plans. Lucky numbers: 9, 16, 20, 23, 31, 44.
Your goals may have a long-term horizon. However, the full moon in the middle of the week might provide the energy to complete one component of your plan. Lucky numbers: 15, 19, 21, 22, 25, 40.
Maintaining your emotional balance may be difficult midweek. Consciously focus on positive choices and actions right now. This dynamic should ease in a few days. Lucky numbers: 3, 6, 16, 20, 25, 37.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Aries winners with the luckiest number being 17.
Giant penguin: Fossils found in Antarctica reveal a prehistoric penguin that stood nearly seven feet tall (2 m), taller than most people today. This “colossus penguin” likely weighed as much as a person and could dive for long stretches underwater.
Vision revolution: Early glasses began as small glass lenses used by the Romans to read fine text. Centuries later, Italian craftsmen joined two magnifiers with a hinge, creating the first spectacles and literally changing how people saw the world.
Tire titan: LEGO, the well-known toy company, produces more tires than any major tire maker, turning out hundreds of millions each year for its toy vehicles. These small rubber wheels earn LEGO the title of the world’s largest tire manufacturer.
Soapy genes: Most people enjoy cilantro for its bright, fresh flavour, but a few experience something very different. A genetic variation makes some people sensitive to certain compounds in the leaves, giving the herb an unmistakable soapy flavour.
Forest smile: In Oregon (U.S.), a reforestation project once arranged two types of trees into the shape of a giant smiley face. Each fall, their changing colours reveal the cheerful design to anyone traveling through the area.
Our Books are NOW AVAILABLE on Amazon!
In Sweden, 30% of car accidents involve a moose. I say don’t let them drive.
Goblin: “Are you ready to go out?”
Witch: “One minute, I have to use some scare spray.”
What do bees do with their honey? They cell it.
I hear the post office is a mail-dominated industry.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Eileen. Eileen who? Eileen over to tie my shoes.
Goblin: “Are you ready to go out?”
Witch: “One minute, I have to use some scare spray.”
What do bees do with their honey? They cell it.
I hear the post office is a mail-dominated industry.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Eileen. Eileen who? Eileen over to tie my shoes.
Trivia Answers: 1. Five 2. King 3. Garden gnome 4. True 5. Spinach
PDF Versions of our Publication
- just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants across Vancouver Island.
30 Years! 1996 to 2026!
We would like to thank all our loyal readers, amazing advertisers, devoted delivery drivers and the hundreds of restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, pubs & other locations that have so graciously displayed us.
Thank you ALL so much!
Marco & Charlotte Oscarson
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
PRINT versions currently available in:
Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay, Victoria, Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan & Mill Bay.
More areas coming soon!
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July 20 - 26, 2026
Greater Victoria Edition
Thank you for reading our Greater Victoria ONLINE edition.
In print, Coffee News is published with three separate editions in Greater Victoria (South Saanich/Oak Bay, Victoria/Esquimalt, West Shore) and four separate editions in the Mid Island region (Parksville/Qualicum, North Nanaimo, Central/South Nanaimo/Ladysmith, Cowichan Valley/Mill Bay). At the bottom of this page you can find PDF versions of those editions. To advertise in print editions click here.
Map walk: In the village of Klejtrup, Denmark, a farmer turned the edge of a lake into a walkable map of the world using stones gathered from nearby fields over many years. What began as a personal pastime grew into a full outdoor model where visitors can step from one continent to another in minutes. Each section was carefully shaped to match coastlines, with certain northern regions repeated to avoid the size distortions found on common wall maps. Paths, flags, and small bridges now guide travellers across the layout, making the globe feel surprisingly compact. The project remains a local landmark, offering a simple way to explore geography on foot.
Owl currency: Long before the modern Greek one-euro coin was minted, an earlier version of the same owl was used across the ancient world, first appearing around 2,500 years ago. In Athens, silver tetradrachm coins showed Athena on one side and her owl with an olive sprig on the other, becoming a well-known trade currency for merchants and travellers. The design stayed mostly the same for generations, making the “owl” one of the most familiar coins of its time. Greece later chose this symbol for the national side of its one-euro coin, keeping the bird inside a border shaped like an old piece of silver. Today the image connects the coin in people’s hands with Greece’s long history and the stories that shaped it.
Waldo goodwill: While helping build a new children’s hospital, a construction worker in Indiana (U.S.) found an unexpected way to lift young patients’ spirits. Drawing on his love of art, he created a large wooden Where’s Waldo figure at home and painted it with help from his daughter. Once finished, he began placing the character in shifting spots around the work site so kids watching from an upper floor could search for it each day. Nurses soon joined in by passing along sightings, turning it into a small routine that brightened hospital stays for many children. The simple game also built a connection between the crews and the children’s families, showing how a light idea can offer comfort during difficult moments.
Cactus sealant: Builders in parts of rural Mexico still rely on a cactus-based mixture to protect adobe homes, using a method passed down since long before modern materials arrived. The process begins by boiling pieces of prickly pear cactus until they release a thick gel that blends with water and lime, creating a coating that helps walls resist moisture and pests. Researchers have recently revisited this approach, studying faster ways to collect the gel for natural building work. The mixture can also strengthen handmade bricks, helping homes last in tough climates. Beyond construction, the same cactus is inspiring biodegradable products, showing how an old plant tradition remains useful today.
“The power to question is the basis of all human progress.” - Indira Gandhi
“If science fiction is the mythology of modern technology, then its myth is tragic.” - Ursula K. Le Guin
“If science fiction is the mythology of modern technology, then its myth is tragic.” - Ursula K. Le Guin
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (no attachments). Deadline Mondays noon.
Kiwanis Foundation Annual Garage Sale: Held July 25, 9am-1pm at 902 Hampshire Rd. Help support our residents in Complex Care. Proceeds to the Kiwanis Foundation in support of our Complex Care Home.
32nd Annual Arts & Music in the Gardens 2026: Presented by the Horticulture Centre of the Pacific, our largest fundraiser & one of Victoria’s most cherished art events is held August 8 & 9, 9am-4pm at 505 Quayle Rd. Live music, vendors & food trucks. Admission $12.
Can You Sew? Operation Christmas Child in Greater Victoria is looking for people to sew pencil cases for shoebox gifts. If you’re interested, please reach out to dehaan.charlene@gmail.com
Pianist Needed for a Seniors Choir: Rehearsals are on Wed & Friday afternoons from September to June. For more info, please contact: Judy at 778-422-1701.
Let’s Talk Live Event Series: Meet new people for free every week. On Fridays, 4-6pm, we meet at 965 Kings Rd.; Saturdays, 10am-12pm, we meet at 1110 Government St., & on Sundays, 3-5pm, we meet at 636 Johnson St. For more info, visit: lets-talk.live
Victoria Farmers Market at Moss Street: Held every Saturday until October 31, 10am-2pm at Sir James Douglas Elementary, 401 Moss St.
Gently Used Hygiene Items: Makeup, personal care, fragrances & more. Sponsored by Soap for Hope, 426B William St. Monday - Friday, 9am-4pm.
Live music! Victoria Folk Music Society weekly gatherings, every Sunday night, 7:30-10pm, Norway House, 1110 Hillside Ave, $8 cash, Everyone welcome www.victoriafolkmusic.ca
Canada Veterans Services Society welcomes Veterans to visit www.cavss.ca to see information on the services we offer, because service never ends.
Victoria Based Collector buys vintage license plates. Call 250-477-4127 or email: JohnMRoberts@telus.net if you have any you wish to sell.
Victoria Men’s Shed ~ Men Helping Men is committed to fostering a community of men in the Greater Victoria area who wish to support one another & engage in projects to benefit each other & the community at large. For more info, visit: victoriamensshed.ca
As an Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualified purchases.
1. Which actress starred in the movie Some Like It Hot?
2. How many bones are in the adult human body?
3. No bears are native to Australia - T/F?
4. “Fauntleroy” is the middle name of this Disney character.
5. A tennis ball has fuzz to slow it down, speed it up, or extend its use?
2. How many bones are in the adult human body?
3. No bears are native to Australia - T/F?
4. “Fauntleroy” is the middle name of this Disney character.
5. A tennis ball has fuzz to slow it down, speed it up, or extend its use?
(see bottom for answers)
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Have you figured out yet what you are here to do? The evolutionary energy at work now could help to reshape your life, but you need to be patient. Lucky numbers: 15, 18, 26, 31, 37, 38.
Taurus always means well, even when they act like the proverbial bull in a china shop. The midweek energy might help soften this dynamic, so take advantage of it. Lucky numbers: 12, 14, 17, 25, 38, 41.
Luck may very well be on your side early this week. Be sure to look at potential opportunities through the lens of their calculated risks, before making a decision. Lucky numbers: 6, 13, 18, 26, 37, 40.
If you want to make a presentation or communicate in another public way, consider doing so during the next few weeks. Your nurturing style could appeal to others now. Lucky numbers: 9, 12, 15, 25, 28, 46.
Your birthday month is a good time to review your prior year accomplishments and set goals for the new one. Consider choosing ones that align with your highest values. Lucky numbers: 10, 12, 25, 41, 44, 48.
Choosing between results and relationships, Virgos often lean toward results. Midweek energy offers an opportunity to shift more toward nurturing connections to others. Lucky numbers: 7, 8, 12, 20, 33, 48.
Libras are often reluctant to tout their accomplishments, giving credit to others. But at midweek, try to take the opportunity to shine and let everyone see your light. Lucky numbers: 1, 8, 13, 23, 35, 36.
Early this week, you may be uncomfortable with the intuitive insights that are revealed to you. Resist the temptation to overreact. Wait a few days for this phase to pass. Lucky numbers: 8, 9, 16, 23, 29, 39.
Your natural optimism may expand midweek. Take advantage of this dynamic, but be conscious of your enthusiasm encouraging you to overreach in risk taking. Lucky numbers: 2, 7, 8, 26, 29, 44.
Your ambitions to succeed at your endeavours get an extra boost at the end of the week. Be careful not to run roughshod over those you care about in the process. Lucky numbers: 4, 12, 13, 14, 20, 40.
You might be in a stalemate this week about what you want vs. your role in the world. If you consider it carefully, you may realize they are the same thing. Lucky numbers: 5, 6, 7, 8, 12, 13.
At midweek, others may want to lean on you for more than you can give. One way to aid them might be to find a way that they can help themselves. Lucky numbers: 18, 21, 23, 28, 32, 33.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Gemini winners with the luckiest number being 37.
Frog bite: Frogs might look toothless, but some secretly have tiny teeth neatly tucked along the top of their mouths. Others even grow small, fang-like edges, showing that frogs’ mouths aren’t quite as simple as they seem.
Brow power: Eyebrows do more than simply frame a face. They help block sweat and rain from the eyes, and their shape guides moisture safely to the sides. Even so, they still manage to reveal every emotion you try to hide.
Sprout story: Brussel sprouts are named for Belgium’s capital, where they became a favourite long ago. Their plant ancestors grew around the Mediterranean, but these tiny greens now thrive in cooler climates and are popular worldwide.
Rhythmic seal: A California sea lion named Ronan surprised scientists by learning to bob her head to music. She could even match new tempos, proving that keeping a beat isn’t just for humans and parrots after all.
Painted skies: High above Iceland, nacreous clouds can glow with soft, shimmering colours that change as the light moves. Made of tiny ice crystals in the cold stratosphere, they often form smooth, rolling patterns, giving the sky a striking, unusual look.
Our Books are NOW AVAILABLE on Amazon!
When construction workers party, they really raise the roof!
I told my suitcases, “No vacation this year.” Now I’m dealing with emotional baggage.
Al: “Why did you move to Hawaii?”
Sal: “So I could spend my vacations at home and still enjoy myself.”
What do you call a man with a seagull on his head? Cliff.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Maya. Maya who? Maya best friend?
I told my suitcases, “No vacation this year.” Now I’m dealing with emotional baggage.
Al: “Why did you move to Hawaii?”
Sal: “So I could spend my vacations at home and still enjoy myself.”
What do you call a man with a seagull on his head? Cliff.
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Maya. Maya who? Maya best friend?
Trivia Answers: 1. Marilyn Monroe 2. 206 3. True 4. Donald Duck 5. Slow it down
PDF Versions of our Publication
- just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants across Vancouver Island.
30 Years! 1996 to 2026!
We would like to thank all our loyal readers, amazing advertisers, devoted delivery drivers and the hundreds of restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, pubs & other locations that have so graciously displayed us.
Thank you ALL so much!
Marco & Charlotte Oscarson
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PRINT versions currently available in:
Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay, Victoria, Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan & Mill Bay.
More areas coming soon!
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July 13 - 19, 2026
Greater Victoria Edition
Thank you for reading our Greater Victoria ONLINE edition.
In print, Coffee News is published with three separate editions in Greater Victoria (South Saanich/Oak Bay, Victoria/Esquimalt, West Shore) and four separate editions in the Mid Island region (Parksville/Qualicum, North Nanaimo, Central/South Nanaimo/Ladysmith, Cowichan Valley/Mill Bay). At the bottom of this page you can find PDF versions of those editions. To advertise in print editions click here.
Nest retreat: In the forested outskirts of Harads, Sweden, visitors can stay inside a suspended structure called Biosphere, wrapped in hundreds of small birdhouses. The rounded suite is reached by an elevated walkway and offers windows on every side so guests can watch the surrounding wildlife. Its designers worked with bird specialists to turn the structure into habitat as well as lodging, adding shelters sized for many regional species. Inside, the room uses dark tones and wide sightlines to bring the colours and movement of the trees into the space. A rooftop platform provides a full-circle view of the woods and the nearby river. The project blends conservation ideas with design, inviting travellers to sleep among the creatures it helps support.
Golden books: Long before online videos shaped what kids read and watched, Little Golden Books changed how families brought stories into their homes. Instead of relying on expensive hardcovers or whatever was available at the library, parents could pick up these colourful titles at grocery counters and newsstands. The small format made them easy for children to handle, and the bright covers stood out from other books of the time. As the series grew, it added familiar characters and simple stories that appealed to many households. Publishers began to notice the demand for affordable books made for everyday use. The format continues to adapt, helping new generations discover reading in an approachable way.
Honey shield: Conservation teams are testing whether active beehives can help protect marula trees from foraging elephants in a private reserve in South Africa. Their idea draws on earlier research showing that elephants tend to avoid buzzing swarms near sensitive areas on their faces. Some trees are fitted with hives, others with wire, and the rest are left unprotected so researchers can track differences over time. The hives also produce small batches of natural honey that local supporters have eagerly welcomed. Beeswax products have followed, adding another way to use the project’s work. By pairing tree protection with beekeeping, the team hopes to support both wildlife and nearby communities.
Ocean retreat: Off the southern coast of Norway, diners descend into an underwater dining room set partly below the sea, where a wide viewing pane looks onto drifting kelp and passing fish. The restaurant was engineered to withstand strong currents and harsh coastal weather, while its rough concrete exterior encourages marine life to attach and form a growing reef. Researchers use the structure to study underwater conditions with sensors placed around the building. In the kitchen, chefs rely on nearby waters for ingredients, often choosing species that are usually ignored. It’s a reminder that a restaurant can operate responsibly while staying closely tied to its environment.
“None but ourselves can free our minds.” - Bob Marley
“No matter how far a person can go, the horizon is still way beyond you.” - Zora Neal Hurston
“No matter how far a person can go, the horizon is still way beyond you.” - Zora Neal Hurston
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (no attachments). Deadline Mondays noon.
‘Wild Places - Wild Women’ Fundraiser Art Show: Four landscape artists displaying artwork July 17-23 at the ArtSea Gallery in Sidney.
Kiwanis Foundation Annual Garage Sale: Held July 25, 9am-1pm at 902 Hampshire Rd. Help support our residents in Complex Care. Proceeds to the Kiwanis Foundation in support of our Complex Care Home.
32nd Annual Arts & Music in the Gardens 2026: Presented by the Horticulture Centre of the Pacific, our largest fundraiser & one of Victoria’s most cherished art events is held August 8 & 9, 9am-4pm at 505 Quayle Rd. Live music, vendors & food trucks. Admission $12.
Can You Sew? Operation Christmas Child in Greater Victoria is looking for people to sew pencil cases for shoebox gifts. If you’re interested, please reach out to dehaan.charlene@gmail.com
Pianist Needed for a Seniors Choir: Rehearsals are on Wed & Friday afternoons from September to June. For more info, please contact: Judy at 778-422-1701.
Let’s Talk Live Event Series: Meet new people for free every week. On Fridays, 4-6pm, we meet at 965 Kings Rd.; Saturdays, 10am-12pm, we meet at 1110 Government St., & on Sundays, 3-5pm, we meet at 636 Johnson St. For more info, visit: lets-talk.live
Victoria Farmers Market at Moss Street: Held every Saturday until October 31, 10am-2pm at Sir James Douglas Elementary, 401 Moss St.
Gently Used Hygiene Items: Makeup, personal care, fragrances & more. Sponsored by Soap for Hope, 426B William St. Monday - Friday, 9am-4pm.
Live music! Victoria Folk Music Society weekly gatherings, every Sunday night, 7:30-10pm, Norway House, 1110 Hillside Ave, $8 cash, Everyone welcome www.victoriafolkmusic.ca
Canada Veterans Services Society welcomes Veterans to visit www.cavss.ca to see information on the services we offer, because service never ends.
Victoria Based Collector buys vintage license plates. Call 250-477-4127 or email: JohnMRoberts@telus.net if you have any you wish to sell.
Victoria Men’s Shed ~ Men Helping Men is committed to fostering a community of men in the Greater Victoria area who wish to support one another & engage in projects to benefit each other & the community at large. For more info, visit: victoriamensshed.ca
As an Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualified purchases.
1. Kofi Annan was the seventh General Secretary of the United Nations - T /F?
2. Which river runs through Paris, France?
3. Is the Greek god of blacksmithing Hephaestus, Mercury, or Poseidon?
4. A Juniper tree is deciduous - T/F?
5. In 1975, was the first Saturday Night Live guest host Bill Murray, George Carlin, or Prince?
2. Which river runs through Paris, France?
3. Is the Greek god of blacksmithing Hephaestus, Mercury, or Poseidon?
4. A Juniper tree is deciduous - T/F?
5. In 1975, was the first Saturday Night Live guest host Bill Murray, George Carlin, or Prince?
(see bottom for answers)
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An evolutionary aspect has been building for several weeks and is hitting a peak point now. If you haven’t yet decided on a course for your life, now is the time! Lucky numbers: 5, 6, 9, 21, 28, 36.
Two planetary heavy hitters, Uranus and Neptune, are aligned in this moment to catalyze human evolution. Taurus is not fond of change, but it may be required of you now. Lucky numbers: 6, 9, 12, 15, 16, 18.
A motto for Gemini might be “so many things to do, so little time.” Now, however, the Universe may be nudging you in a particular direction, so pay attention. Lucky numbers: 7, 17, 18, 27, 32, 47.
The new moon in your sign can be a powerful time for setting new intentions. Before proceeding, be sure that you truly know what your underlying motivation is. Lucky numbers: 5, 8, 20, 28, 43, 45.
Your leadership abilities could be a natural draw to others early in the week. Be sure that you are leading them in a direction that might be a win for everyone. Lucky numbers: 9, 15, 17, 18, 26, 48.
At midweek, you may be tempted to be overly demanding of yourself or others. This could pass in a few days, but be aware of it while it is in effect. Lucky numbers: 18, 21, 28, 37, 38, 41.
As the weekend approaches, develop a plan for relaxation. Self care is important and is something Libras often overlook in their focus on the needs of others. Lucky numbers: 1, 18, 21, 29, 43, 44.
MAre you experiencing frustration in your life path? If so, consider how adjusting your view might bring changes in your actions that could improve the situation. Lucky numbers: 11, 12, 21, 23, 26, 37.
Do you believe in something but lack the courage to follow through on it? You may continue in a stalemate until you do. Then an opportunity could suddenly open up. Lucky numbers: 2, 13, 16, 25, 33, 44.
Is there a stalemate between what you want versus what others want? Approach the situation again in a few days. You may find you aren’t as far apart as you thought. Lucky numbers: 4, 8, 9, 37, 43, 44.
Have you felt the evolutionary aspect that has been building recently? Being attuned to it could be confirmation that you have a role to play in humanity’s shift. Lucky numbers: 10, 12, 14, 39, 43, 48.
A grounded, midweek energy could help balance your more esoteric Pisces qualities. For the few days this is in effect, focus on accomplishing something important. Lucky numbers: 15, 16, 26, 37, 44, 47.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Sagittarius winners with the luckiest number being 33.
Divine fungi: Ancient Egyptians believed mushrooms were gifts from the gods, born from lightning striking the earth. Considered food of immortality, they were reserved for pharaohs; ordinary people were forbidden to touch the sacred delicacies.
Mysterious muse: For centuries, the true face behind Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” has kept scholars guessing. Most now suspect she was a Florentine woman named Lisa Gherardini, whose steady gaze became one of history’s most studied portraits.
Hidden ties: Coastal redwoods can grow to incredible heights even though their roots reach only about six to 12 feet (2 to 4 m) deep. They stay upright by linking roots with neighbouring trees, creating a vast network that anchors the entire forest.
Cover debut: When Rolling Stone launched, John Lennon appeared on its very first cover, marking the start of a long parade of music legends to do so. From Bob Dylan to Madonna, many artists have made their mark on the magazine’s front page.
Naming continents: Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci realized the lands across the Atlantic were not part of Asia but a separate continent. When mapmakers later documented his findings, they used his first name, giving “America” its place on the map.
Our Books are NOW AVAILABLE on Amazon!
Why did the orange only go halfway up the hill? It ran out of juice.
A helper at a shoeshine parlour is called a bootician.
Do I have a time machine? Of course, I do! We go way back!
Dad: “I was told you skipped school to watch football today!”
Son: “I didn’t and I have the movie ticket to prove it!”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Freddie. Freddie who? Freddie or not, here I come!
A helper at a shoeshine parlour is called a bootician.
Do I have a time machine? Of course, I do! We go way back!
Dad: “I was told you skipped school to watch football today!”
Son: “I didn’t and I have the movie ticket to prove it!”
Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Freddie. Freddie who? Freddie or not, here I come!
Trivia Answers: 1. True 2. Seine 3. Hephaestus 4. False, a conifer
5. George Carlin
PDF Versions of our Publication
- just like the ones you will find displayed in restaurants across Vancouver Island.
30 Years! 1996 to 2026!
We would like to thank all our loyal readers, amazing advertisers, devoted delivery drivers and the hundreds of restaurants, cafes, coffee shops, pubs & other locations that have so graciously displayed us.
Thank you ALL so much!
Marco & Charlotte Oscarson
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
PRINT versions currently available in:
Langford, Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt, Saanich, Oak Bay, Victoria, Parksville, Qualicum, Coombs, Nanoose, Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Chemainus, Duncan & Mill Bay.
More areas coming soon!
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
July 6 - 12, 2026
Greater Victoria Edition
Thank you for reading our Greater Victoria ONLINE edition.
In print, Coffee News is published with three separate editions in Greater Victoria (South Saanich/Oak Bay, Victoria/Esquimalt, West Shore) and four separate editions in the Mid Island region (Parksville/Qualicum, North Nanaimo, Central/South Nanaimo/Ladysmith, Cowichan Valley/Mill Bay). At the bottom of this page you can find PDF versions of those editions. To advertise in print editions click here.
Signal skills: Researchers in London, England discovered that bumblebees can tell the difference between long and short flashes of light, much like the “dash” and “dot” pattern used in Morse code. To test this, scientists built a small maze and trained the bees to follow a brief flash linked to a sweet reward while ignoring a longer flash tied to something they didn’t want. When the treats were later removed, the bees still chose the correct signal, showing they’d learned the timing rather than relying on smell or position. Because insects don’t usually encounter flashing cues, the results point to a surprisingly flexible sense of timing. The study also offers a new way to explore how small nervous systems handle complex tasks.
Ocean bounty: A salvage team searching an old wreck site on the coast of Florida (U.S.), uncovered a spread of historic coins resting below the waves. The area is tied to a Spanish fleet that vanished during a violent storm, leaving part of its cargo scattered across the seafloor. Divers retrieved gold escudos, silver pieces, and fragments of a sack that hint at a larger stash still buried in the sand. The recovered coins are valued at roughly $1 million (USD), adding financial weight to the find. Each piece reflects the region where it was minted, offering clues about the trade networks of the Spanish Empire. With much of the fleet still missing, experts believe these discoveries represent only a small portion of what remains underwater.
Desert bond: Herders in the wide reaches of the Gobi Desert use a musical ritual to reunite camel mothers with calves they refuse to accept. A musician plays slow melodies on instruments like the horsehead fiddle while the pair stands tethered together on the sand. The tune shifts with the animals’ behaviour, blending rhythm and chanting meant to echo the movements and calls of camels. Families sometimes add older methods such as wrapping the calf in the pelt of a lost newborn. These traditions were passed down to help orphaned calves survive and ensure milk in harsh conditions. With fewer young nomads remaining in the desert, elders fear this ritual could fade unless it is protected for future generations.
Digital treasure: On the Caribbean island of Anguilla, a once-forgotten web domain has become a financial lifeline. When countries were first assigned internet codes, Anguilla received “.ai,” a simple extension that now draws global attention thanks to artificial intelligence. Tech firms and entrepreneurs pay significant fees to secure .ai addresses, bringing steady revenue for the small British territory. The growing profits complement tourism, long the island’s main industry, while helping offset losses from hurricanes. Anguilla manages the domain market alongside a U.S. partner, earning a share from every registration. What began as a random technical designation has evolved into a lasting economic opportunity for the island’s future.
“The beginning is always today.” - Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley
“To put your hands in a river is to feel the chords that bind the earth together.” - Barry Lopez
“To put your hands in a river is to feel the chords that bind the earth together.” - Barry Lopez
FREE listings for non-profit community events. Please email, 25 words or less, to: events@myCoffeeNews.ca (no attachments). Deadline Mondays noon.
Victoria Folk Music Festival: Held July 4 at Royal Athletic Park.
This family-friendly festival brings together an outstanding mix of
folk, roots, & Americana music for a full day of live performances,
connection, and community spirit. A lively artisan & vintage market,
great local food & a vibrant children’s area. Tickets:
www.vicfolkfest.com
Kiwanis Foundation Annual Garage Sale: Held July 25, 9am-1pm at 902 Hampshire Rd. Help support our residents in Complex Care. Proceeds to the Kiwanis Foundation in support of our Complex Care Home.
32nd Annual Arts & Music in the Gardens 2026: Presented by the Horticulture Centre of the Pacific, our largest fundraiser & one of Victoria’s most cherished art events is held August 8 & 9, 9am-4pm at 505 Quayle Rd. Live music, vendors & food trucks. Admission $12.
Can You Sew? Operation Christmas Child in Greater Victoria is looking for people to sew pencil cases for shoebox gifts. If you’re interested, please reach out to dehaan.charlene@gmail.com
Let’s Talk Live Event Series: Meet new people for free every week. On Fridays, 4-6pm, we meet at 965 Kings Rd.; Saturdays, 10am-12pm, we meet at 1110 Government St., & on Sundays, 3-5pm, we meet at 636 Johnson St. For more info, visit: lets-talk.live
Victoria Farmers Market at Moss Street: Held every Saturday until October 31, 10am-2pm at Sir James Douglas Elementary, 401 Moss St.
Gently Used Hygiene Items: Makeup, personal care, fragrances & more. Sponsored by Soap for Hope, 426B William St. Monday - Friday, 9am-4pm.
Live music! Victoria Folk Music Society weekly gatherings, every Sunday night, 7:30-10pm, Norway House, 1110 Hillside Ave, $8 cash, Everyone welcome www.victoriafolkmusic.ca
Canada Veterans Services Society welcomes Veterans to visit www.cavss.ca to see information on the services we offer, because service never ends.
Victoria Based Collector buys vintage license plates. Call 250-477-4127 or email: JohnMRoberts@telus.net if you have any you wish to sell.
Victoria Men’s Shed ~ Men Helping Men is committed to fostering a community of men in the Greater Victoria area who wish to support one another & engage in projects to benefit each other & the community at large. For more info, visit: victoriamensshed.ca
As an Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualified purchases.
1. Does jazz musician Herbie Hancock play the piano, trombone, or saxophone?
2. What is the capital of Brazil?
3. Who wrote the novel Jane Eyre?
4. Bees are the only pollinators - T/F?
5. This planet is closest to the sun.
2. What is the capital of Brazil?
3. Who wrote the novel Jane Eyre?
4. Bees are the only pollinators - T/F?
5. This planet is closest to the sun.
(see bottom for answers)
CUSTOM JAVASCRIPT / HTML
You may be annoyed by the responsibilities that others are assigning to you. You might be asked to put the needs of others before your own desires for now. Lucky numbers: 1, 13, 21, 22, 30, 42.
Someone you love may hold the key to helping you heal an old emotional wound. Accept their aid, but understand that only you can do the work to achieve this outcome. Lucky numbers: 10, 14, 17, 23, 36, 44.
You may find that the end of the week is very busy and you might be overwhelmed with information. Wait until things calm down to sort through and evaluate it. Lucky numbers: 12, 13, 14, 31, 33, 41.
Your words could help nurture others at week’s end. Be careful in crafting your message, so that they truly listen to and absorb what you want to communicate to them. Lucky numbers: 4, 5, 12, 16, 39, 47.
A new opportunity may be available for you, but it might not be an obvious one. It could require flexibility and stepping into a new skill set in order to manifest it. Lucky numbers: 7, 27, 33, 42, 43, 46.
The midweek energy is well grounded, complementing your Virgo work ethic and attention to detail. Before it passes, try to apply this energy to something productive. Lucky numbers: 2, 4, 26, 27, 29, 37.
Libras prefer to use tact and diplomacy to facilitate change with others. But early in the week, a stronger approach may be needed to break through obstacles to progress. Lucky numbers: 3, 6, 10, 11, 32, 34.
Midweek your fixed Scorpio determination may run into a stalemate with others. Resist the temptation to dig in your heels; find compromise where you can. Lucky numbers: 5, 12, 13, 18, 20, 29.
At week’s end, step back if something or someone challenges your life philosophy. Consider if you still hold these beliefs or if you need to reconsider them. Lucky numbers: 14, 22, 31, 36, 43, 46.
A strength of Capricorn is the ability to succeed in your ambitions. However, the challenge for you at week’s end is to also nurture the needs of the larger community. Lucky numbers: 6, 8, 12, 23, 29, 47.
Those with an Aquarius Sun often want to tackle the thorniest human problems, ones with no easy solutions. At midweek, seek information and insights that can help. Lucky numbers: 13, 21, 22, 24, 25, 42.
Midweek energy heightens your natural empathy and connection to others. Pisces can be pulled under by these waters, so focus on doing something positive instead. Lucky numbers: 11, 19, 22, 34, 41, 48.
Lucky numbers this week: This week’s odds favour Leo winners with the luckiest number being 7.
Crayon candle: In a pinch, a single crayon can light up the dark. Made of wax like a candle, it burns slowly as its paper wrapper acts as a wick, offering a surprisingly clever and dependable source of light during unexpected emergencies.
Platform passion: In France, a century-old law technically forbids kissing on train platforms. It was meant to keep departures on schedule, since long goodbyes once delayed trains, though today most travellers overlook it for one last kiss.
Hidden stripes: Tigers look bright orange to us, but many of the animals they hunt see limited colour. To those prey species, a tiger’s coat appears greenish instead, letting the big cats blend into the forest far more easily than people might expect.
Story skies: Uranus is surrounded by 28 moons, all named after characters from classic plays and poems. Their surfaces range from bright icy tones to deep shadowy hues, creating a cosmic stage worthy of their literary names.
Veggie rhythms: Scientists have discovered that fruits and vegetables, including cabbage and carrots, keep their own internal schedule even after harvest. They still react to light and darkness, carrying on their daily cycles long after leaving the field.
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Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Lisa. Lisa who? Lisa can do is let me in.
What is worse than finding a worm in an apple? Finding half a worm.
The fortune teller likes her work because she always has a ball.
Patient: “Doctor, I am dizzy for a half hour after waking up.”
Doctor: “Well, you should get up a half hour later.”
Did you know there is a 007 that spies underwater? James Pond!
What is worse than finding a worm in an apple? Finding half a worm.
The fortune teller likes her work because she always has a ball.
Patient: “Doctor, I am dizzy for a half hour after waking up.”
Doctor: “Well, you should get up a half hour later.”
Did you know there is a 007 that spies underwater? James Pond!
Trivia Answers: 1. Piano 2. Brasilia 3. Charlotte Brontë 4. False
5. Mercury
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Marco & Charlotte Oscarson
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