What's On Digest Nanaimo December 2014

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DECEMBER 2014 | ISSUE 3:4 www.whatsondigest.com Nanaimo arts, culture, food, music, movies, festivals, markets & more FREE - TAKE ONE Enter to Win Enter to Win LIFT TICKETS to Mt Washington Email: [email protected] Gogo's Tree Farm History SEE INSIDE FOR CONCERT DATES & MORE CAN'T MISS EVENT SEE PAGE 16 FOR DETAILS

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Nanaimo people, events, culture, activities, festivals, music, dance, art, beer-gardens, exhibitions, movies, games, contests, things to do, visitor info, local info, farmers markets, gardens, hikes, walks, sights, food, hotels, maps. Articles on health, homes, auto, fitness, money, pets and much more.

Transcript of What's On Digest Nanaimo December 2014

DECEMBER 2014 | ISSUE 3:4 www.whatsondigest.com

Nanaimo arts, culture, food, music, movies, festivals, markets & more FREE - TAKE ONE

Enter to Win Enter to Win LIFT TICKETS to Mt Washington Email: [email protected]

Gogo's Tree Farm History

SEE INSIDE FOR CONCERT DATES & MORE

CAN'T MISS EVENT

SEE PAGE 16 FOR DETAILS

Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour: 7 pm at the Port Theatre Dec 2 and 3. Different films each night. FMI/tix 250.754.8550 or porttheatre.com

Live Music: ‘Marty Steele’ plays various piano stylings at ACMe Food Co 6:30 - 8:30 pm. No cover, reservations recommended at 250.753.0042

Nanaimo Art Gallery Fundraiser: ‘Ornament3’ takes place at the Grand Hotel 5 - 7 pm. Tix $10 by phone or in person at either NAG location. Find a unique ornament, enjoy wine, cheese, music and complimentary beverage, bid on one-of-a-kind artworks. FMI nanaimoartgallery.com or 250.754.1750

04 DEC THUCommunity Sing Along: the annual ‘Light Up a Life’ community sing along with Allison Crowe takes place from 5 - 6 pm at Real Foods (321 Wesley St) in the Old City Quarter. Free. FMI www.oldcityquarter.com

Festival of Trees: Nanaimo North Town Centre’s first annual event in support of BC Children’s Hospital. Until Jan 4. FMI nanaimonorth.com

Nanaimo Hockey: cheer on the Nanaimo Buccaneers as they take on the Comox Valley Glacier Kings at the Nanaimo Ice Centre, game time 7:15 pm. FMI/tix buccaneers.vijhl.com or 250.616.1404

01 DEC MONFestival of Trees: Nanaimo North Town Centre’s first annual event in support of BC Children’s Hospital. Until Jan 4. FMI nanaimonorth.com

Photos with Santa: until Dec 24 at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Pet Photo Contest until Dec 18. FMI nanaimonorth.com

02 DEC TUEGlow in the Dark Skate: skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects! 6:30 - 8 pm at Frank Crane Arena. Regular admission rates, glow necklaces $2. FMI 250.756.5200

Author Visit: Sanford Osler will speak about his book Canoe Crossings which traces the history of canoe types in BC and the impact they have had on the province. Harbourfront Library 6:30 - 8 pm. Free. FMI 250.753.1154

Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour: 7 pm at the Port Theatre Dec 2 and 3. Different films each night. FMI/tix 250.754.8550 or porttheatre.com

Live Theatre: holiday mystery ‘Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol’ plays at Chemainus Theatre Festival daily (excepting Mondays) until Dec 22. Evening and matinee shows available. FMI chemainustheatrefestival.ca or 1-800-565-7738

03 DEC WED19th Annual Community Carol Festival: several of Nanaimo’s finest choirs will lead the community sing-along at St. Andrew’s Church in Nanaimo at 7:30 pm. Admission by donation. FMI nanaimosings.com

Winter Specials All Weather Tires

(250) 390-4211 · 6590 North Island Hwy | Across from Woodgrove Mall

Ask about our Tire Rebates & SAVE

(250) 758-9128 · 2800 Norwell Drive | Across the street from Country Club Center

Nanaimo’s Local One Stop Pet ShopToys • Treats • Natural Pet Nutrition • Leashes Collars • Friendly Knowledgeable Staff Located in Rock City Plaza by Jumping Jiminy’s Play Centre and Earl’s Restaurant.

Service with a Smile

410-2980 Island Highway N, Nanaimo, BC | Tel. (250) 758-2727 | truebluenaturalpetfood.ca

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MINNOZ ON THE HARBOUR

Steak & Seafood Restaurant & Lounge

11 Bastion Street ph. 250-824-0167 www.minnoz.com

DAILYDRINK SPECIALS

REFRESHINGLY LOCAL

CANUCKS GAMES IN DECTue, 2 Dec: Canucks vs Capitals 4:00 PM

Thu, 4 Dec: Canuck vs Penguins 4:00 PM SN360

Sat, 6 Dec: Canucks vs Maple Leafs 4:00 PM CBC

Sun, 7 Dec: Canucks vs Senators 4:00 PM NHLN-US, TVA, CITY

Tue, 9 Dec: Canucks vs Canadiens 4:30 PM SNP

Sat, 13 Dec: Rangers vs Canucks7:00 PM HNIC

Wed, 17 Dec: Stars vs Canucks 7:00 PM SN

Sat, 20 Dec: Flames vs Canucks 7:00 PM HNIC

Mon, 22 Dec: Coyotes vs Canucks 7:00 PM SNP, NHLN-US

Sun, 28 Dec: Canucks vs Ducks 5:00 PM TVA, CITY

Tue, 30 Dec: Canucks vs Sharks 7:00 PM SNP

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A break from obesity for the holidays, no one wants to think about weight during the Holiday season! I thought we would look at an old Christmas carol and your pets’ health!

12 Drummers Drumming: The Heart - Heart health is just as important for dogs and cats as it is for humans. Have a veterinarian listen closely to that heart at a minimum of once a year. Puppies and kittens need an exam at 8 weeks, 12 weeks, and 16 weeks; this is not only to get their vaccines, but allows your veterinarian to check that your friends heart is developing normally. Older animals need a health check twice a year to monitor their heart and other body systems

11 Pipers Piping: Breathing - Knowing your friends nor-mal resting respiratory rate when they are sleeping (SLEEP-ING is important or else it isn’t a resting rate!) is a great way to check on their health. Respiratory rates are taken over a minute (or you can take it over 15 seconds and multiply by 4). Normal is usually around 15 (plus or minus a few). Find out what your pets’ normal is, then monitor it once in awhile. If all of a sudden it starts increasing…get it checked.

10 Lords-a-Leaping: Arthritis - Dogs and cats as they age develop arthritis, just like us. Seeing a decrease in activ-ity with age isn’t necessarily because they are “just getting old”. They may need a supplement for their joints or some physiotherapy for their muscles to help them out.

9 Ladies Dancing: Arthritis…again - I feel arthritic change is one of the most common diseases we see as pets age, and also one of the least recognized. Decrease weight, work up slowly to a good exercise program, and if you need some advice visit your friendly neighborhood veterinarian.

8 Maids-a-Milking: Milk - Huge problem, easy solu-tion: Cats and dogs are lactose intolerant. Do not give them milk, or milk products. It will cause some diges-tive upset and pain, even if they don’t show any signs, even if they’ve gotten it their whole life. Milk is unnec-essary and will cause health problems.

7 Swans-a-Swimming: Exercise - Exercise is great for everyone, not just you, but also our four legged friends. Get a laser pointer out for your cat, get your shoes on and take your dog for a walk. Exercising with your pets increases their health and helps to build a strong bond with your pet.

6 Geese-a-Laying: Reproduction - Spaying and Neutering dogs and cats not only decreases the number of pets without homes, but also increases your pets healthy lifespan.

5 Gold Rings: Identification - All dogs and cats need identification. Tattoos can wear off, collars can go miss-ing…I recommend all pets have microchips.

4 Calling Birds: Hunters - Hunting pets (or pets with fleas) need to be dewormed every month, non-hunting pets every year.

3 French Hens: Nutrition - Good food leads to a healthy life. Advertising doesn’t provide the clearest in-formation…choose diets that are high in nutrition.

2 Turtle Doves: YOU - Just like two turtle doves, your cat or dog is always there for you and happy to see you. Your very presence brings them a sense of security and happiness. You are part of their pack (or pride). Remem-ber to spend time with them, just time.

And a Partridge in a Pear Tree: FRIENDSHIP - All pets need one thing above all. Love. Merry Christmas! Enjoy the love of your family and friends.

PET TIPThe 12 days of Christmas… Written by Dr. Julie Lamb,

Applecross Veterinary Hospital

DEDICATED TO PREVENTIVE MEDICINE

Promoting animal health through preventive and modern veterinary medicine

Phone: 250-390-2391Fax: 250-390-1741

[email protected]

6451 Applecross RdNanaimo, BC V9V 1N1

www.applecrossvet.ca

Digital RadiologyPreventive MedicineLife-Stage ProgramsIndividualized Wellness Plans

ASK US HOW TO KEEP YOUR PETS THE HEALTHIEST THEY CAN BE

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IVIA

05 DEC FRI8th Annual Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular: this singing and dancing extravaganza takes place Dec 5-7 and Dec 12-14 at Cedar Community Hall and Dec 19-21 at the Port Theatre. FMI/tix yellowpointchristmasspectacular.ca or 250.754.8550

Breast Thermography Clinic: in Nanaimo starting at 9 am. Call 250.947.5424 for pricing/to book apt

Santa’s Workshop: 3 - 6 pm Friday’s in December at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. Visit with Santa, make a Christmas craft, watch a Christmas classic and enjoy hot chocolate. Free. Don’t forget your camera! FMI www.dnbia.ca

Photos with Santa: until Dec 24 at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Pet Photo Contest until Dec 18. FMI nanaimonorth.com

Gift Wrapping by Donation: a fundraiser for/by Wellington Secondary Band Program at Nanaimo North Town Centre, daily until Dec 24. FMI [email protected]

Live Music: ‘Luke Guthrie’ at ACMe Food Co. 7:00 - 10:00 pm. No cover, reservations recommended at 250.753.0042

22nd Annual Singing Christmas Tree: performances Dec 5 - 7 and Dec 12 - 14 at Generations Church. 7 pm shows each night with 4 pm matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Free tix available at Generations Church and The Buzz Coffee House. FMI generations.ca

Nanaimo Hockey: cheer on the Nanaimo Clippers as they take on Merritt at Frank Crane Arena. Game time 7 pm. FMI/tix nanaimoclippers.com

Christmas Concert: ‘Christmas Harmony with the Tidesmen’ (special guests ‘Heart of the Island Sweet Adelines’ and the ‘Nanaimo Youth Choir’) at the Nanaimo Ecumenical Centre 7 - 9 pm. Tix $20 in advance (cash only) from Arbutus Music and The Quilted Duck, or at the door. Kids free but must be related to adult bringing them. FMI www.tidesmen.com

06 DEC SATChristmas Trolley: Fred and Barney are back! Ride the Downtown Nanaimo Christmas Trolley Dec 6, 13th or 20th from noon to 4 pm. Hop on or off at 100 Museum Way and on Wesley Street in the Old City Quarter. Free! FMI dnbia.caSaturday Studio: ‘Ornament Day’ at Art Lab! Create an ornament to give as a gift, hang on a tree or display at home. For kids 5 - 11, 10:30 am - 12 noon at Nanaimo Art Gallery downtown. $12/child. Register at 250.754.1750. FMI nanaimoartgallery.comChristmas Tea/Bazaar/Bake Sale: 1:30 - 4 pm at St. Philips By-The-Sea Anglican Church in Lantzville. Tea $10/adult, $5 for ages 6 - 11. No fee for Bazaar or Bake Sale. FMI 250.390.364122nd Annual Singing Christmas Tree: performances Dec 5 - 7 and Dec 12 - 14 at Generations Church. 7 pm shows each night with 4 pm matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Free tix available at Generations Church and The Buzz Coffee House. FMI generations.caBeer & Burger Fundraiser: ‘Claus and Paws” for SPCA, 6 - 9 pm Harewood Arms Pub. FMI 250.754.24338th Annual Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular: Dec 5-7 and Dec 12-14 at Cedar Community Hall and Dec 19-21 at the Port Theatre. FMI/tix yellowpointchristmasspectacular.ca or 250.754.8550

Santa’s Workshop: 12 - 5 pm Saturday’s in December at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. Visit with Santa, make a Christmas craft, watch a Christmas classic and enjoy hot chocolate. Free. Don’t forget your camera! FMI www.dnbia.ca

Nanaimo Hockey: cheer on the Nanaimo Clippers as they take on Cowichan Valley at Frank Crane Arena. Game time 7 pm. FMI/tix nanaimoclippers.com

Allison Crowe Tidings Concert: 7:30 pm at the Port Theatre. Favourite carols and all-season selections. FMI/tix porttheatre.com

Winter Concert: the Island Bel Canto Singers present ‘Wintersong’ at Brechin United Church at 2:30 pm. $15/adult, 12 and under free. Tix from Quilted Duck or [email protected]

Live Music: ‘DOC’ plays the Wellington Hotel Pub starting at 8 pm. No cover. FMI 250.758.5513

Live Music: enjoy the sounds of the season from Dec 6 - 14 at Woodgrove Centre food court! Choirs, choral and musical groups will be performing, Schedule at woodgrovecentre.com

Paws & Tales: children welcome to drop by Wellington Branch Library and read to Dareby the therapy dog between 2 - 3 pm. FMI 250.758.5544

07 DEC SUNSanta’s Workshop: 12 - 4 pm Sunday’s in December at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. Visit with Santa, make a Christmas craft, watch a Christmas classic and enjoy hot chocolate. Free. Don’t forget your camera! FMI www.dnbia.ca

Christmas Concert: the Yellow Point Singers present their annual Christmas program at Christ Community Church in Nanaimo at 2:30 pm. Tix at the door, $10/person or $20/family. Refreshments. FMI www.nanaimosings.com

Free Family Event: entertainment, refreshments, take-home craft. 11 am - 2 pm at Nanaimo North Town Centre. FMI nanaimonorth.com

22nd Annual Singing Christmas Tree: performances Dec 5 - 7 and Dec 12 - 14 at Generations Church. 7 pm shows each night with 4 pm matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Free tix available at Generations Church and The Buzz Coffee House.FMI generations.ca

8th Annual Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular: Dec 5-7 and Dec 12-14 at Cedar Community Hall and Dec 19-21 at the Port Theatre. FMI/tix yellowpointchristmasspectacular.ca or 250.754.8550

Winter Concert: the Island Bel Canto Singers present ‘Wintersong’ at the Nanaimo Ecumenical Centre at 7:30 pm. $15/adult, 12 and under free. Tix from Quilted Duck or [email protected]

Rock City Centre #500-2980 North Island Hwy

Nanaimo, B.C. V9T 5V4(behind Earls)

Since 1998

ph 250.729.7044

Real food, served fresh and fast!· Specializing in European Foods and Imports

(including a large selection of Dutch Liquorice & European Candies)

· Catering services available upon request· Gluten free options available

Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday 9 AM to 5:30 PM

Saturday 10 AM to 5 PM Closed Sundays & Stat Holidays

Sinterklaas says ‘Don’t Forget

Your Chocolate Letters...’

What kind of food is Cullen Skink?

Who was Stan Laurel’s partner?

What is classified by the A B O System?

What plant does the Colorado Beetle attack?

Where Did the Pied Piper play?

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This not to be missed Nanaimo pre-Christmas event simply demands that you bring the whole family so you can all join in on the fun and get in the Christ-mas mood. Get out and enjoy an unparalleled eve-ning of the most incredible orchestral and choral ar-rangements in brass! This truly inspirational event combines the Majesty of brass with the magic of Christmas delivered in a lighthearted and humorous spirit. Think "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" meets Sting's classic "Roxanne." A Festive Brassy Christmas is a feast for our ears and eyes as well as our hearts and minds. This exciting concert has been entertaining and amazing crowds for the better part of the past two decades. In fact you may have been fortunate enough to have been a part of this event at the Butchart Gardens in Victoria. If so then you will know what a treat it is and won't want to miss it here in the Harbour City.

There is really nothing at all quite like live music. The energy and excitement are contagious with the interplay of the entertainers and the audience creat-

ing a unique experience meant to share with those closest to you. The intimacy of the Port Theatre of-fers both artist and audience member an opportunity to interact in a way a larger venue simply cannot imitate. The power of those beautiful brass instru-ments delivering festive classics under the keen and interactive orchestration of Pierre Simard is as en-gaging as it is fascinating to behold. The music, the visual beauty of the event, the laughs and the magic of Christmas combine to deliver an unforgettable evening out at what is undeniably the most wonder-ful time of the year.

The Vancouver Island Symphony with Guest Artists:

Festive Brass, Stevan Paranosic, Director

Symphonic Choir and Symphonic Children's Choir, Patricia Plumley, Director

Article by Simon Rideout

One of a kind deck of cards with 54 scenes of Nanaimo, 54 original

artworks

Call 250.754.0177 for detailswww.vancouverislandsymphony.com

Give the

Gift of Music with a VIS Ticket Voucher!

2014–15 SEASON SPONSORS

A Festive Brassy ChristmasDo you feel the need to get in the Christmas Spirit? Of course you do! A Festive Brassy Christmas comes to the Port Theatre December 13th at 7:30PM. If this doesn't put you in the mood then truly nothing will.

The Vancouver Island Symphony presents:

Introducing Dr. Arun Natarajan, Cardiologist...Dr. Arun Natarajan is a pioneer, the first of his kind, and a welcomed addition. This is to say, he is the first Cardiologist on Vancouver Island stationed north of Victoria.

When he arrived in September he brought with him specialized skills gained through an abundance of international experience; beginning in India, fol-lowed by fourteen years in the UK, and a year at the Royal Jubilee Hospital. His use of advanced echo and MRI diagnostics is of particular interest in his field, and will enhance the care of heart patients on Central Island. The good doctor is currently estab-lishing a “Cardiac Centre”, which is complimented by the Heart Function Clinic and Pacemaker Ser-vices already in place at Nanaimo Regional General

Hospital (NRGH). By establishing “stress echo ser-vices and expanding TEE and 3D echoes services” in Nanaimo, diagnoses will be possible close to home. This will make a difference to patients fac-ing health crises. The Cardiac Centre will soon be recruiting “sonographers and [additional] staff as part of the expansion”. Although Dr. Natarajan’s plans for heart health services do not end here, this is where they begin. The Hospital Foundation is sup-porting Dr. Natarajan’s efforts by raising $288,000 for Cardiac Clinic equipment.

healthWhat's On

Article by Feron Walker

1801 Bowen Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9S 1H1www.nanaimohospitalfoundation.com

Tel (250) 755-7690

4 super-good-for-you raw root veggiesThere’s something so gratifying about fall vegetables. The sweet taste of squash, yams, beets and other root veggies remind me of hearty meals around the table with family. Loaded with rich color and plenty of nutrients, these root veggies are among the season’s freshest, healthiest picks. Here are some ways to eat them (and why your body will love them)!

Beets – Grate this naturally sweet power food; toss it with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice then top a salad with it for a boost of folate and manganese. Beets are an excellent antioxidant.

Yams – Pop some chopped yams into the food pro-cessor then add water, coconut butter, spices and some sweetener to make the filling for raw yam pie. Yams are a great source of energy, fiber and B-com-plex vitamins, which help with metabolism.

Carrots – Dip carrot sticks in almond butter or home-made hummus for an easy on-the-go snack. Carrots

are loaded with beta-carotene, promoting good eye-sight, healthy skin and resistance to infection.

Squash – For a delicious raw soup, blend squash with coconut water, celery, cashews and spices. This veggie is a high-fiber heart-friendly choice. It has lots of potassium for bone health and B6 for a strong immune system and nervous system.

Beet lovers: Stop in at Power House Raw Food & Juice Bar and try our Recovery Smoothie with beets, kale, blueberries, pineapple, orange, apple, acai, and flax. Fuel your day the natural way!

Power House Living Foods Co | Phone 250.591.7873 Cell 250.756.5592 | powerhouseliving.ca

By Toni Jeffries

Dr. Arun Natarajan

Power Food

Sing-Along Messiah: Malaspina Choir presents its 5th annual sing-along concert at St. Andrew’s Church at 2:30 pm. Tix $20/adult, $10/student from the port theatre or at the door. FMI malaspinachoir.com

Live Music: enjoy the sounds of the season from Dec 6 - 14 at Woodgrove Centre food court! Choirs, choral and musical groups will be performing, Schedule at woodgrovecentre.com

Two Worlds Spiritualist Centre Service: Morpeth Hall, Nanaimo at 11 am. Fellowship and refreshments to follow. FMI 250.729.9086

Ukrainian Christmas Bazaar: 11 am - 3 pm St. Michael's Parish Hall. Frozen and hot perogies, borscht and much more. Novelties and raffle prizes. FMI [email protected]

Free Lions Skate: fun for everyone! Free admission, skate and helmet rentals 12 - 1:30 pm at Frank Crane Arena. FMI 250.756.5200

08 DEC MONFestival of Trees: Nanaimo North Town Centre’s first annual event in support of BC Children’s Hospital. Until Jan 4. FMI nanaimonorth.com

Live Music: enjoy the sounds of the season from Dec 6 - 14 at Woodgrove Centre food court! Choirs, choral and musical groups will be performing, Schedule at woodgrovecentre.com

09 DEC TUENutcracker Ballet: Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet presents the Nutcracker at the Port Theatre at 7:30 pm. FMI/tix porttheatre.com

Photos with Santa: until Dec 24 at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Pet Photo Contest until Dec 18. FMI nanaimonorth.com

Nanaimo Newcomer’s Club: a non-denominational social group for women new to Nanaimo. St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church 7 - 9 pm. FMI nanaimonewcomersclub.org

Live Music: enjoy the sounds of the season from Dec 6 - 14 at Woodgrove Centre food court! Choirs, choral and musical groups will be performing, Schedule at woodgrovecentre.com

10 DEC WEDNutcracker Ballet: Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet presents the Nutcracker at the Port Theatre at 7:30 pm. FMI/tix porttheatre.com

Photos with Santa: until Dec 24 at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Pet Photo Contest until Dec 18. FMI nanaimonorth.com

Live Music: ‘Marty Steele’ plays various piano stylings at ACMe Food Co 6:30 - 8:30 pm. No cover, reservations recommended at 250.753.0042

Live Music: enjoy the sounds of the season from Dec 6 - 14 at Woodgrove Centre food court! Choirs, choral and musical groups will be performing, Schedule at woodgrovecentre.com

11 DEC THUA Rock ‘N’ Roll Christmas: two of the world’s best tribute artists join forces to present a not-to-be-missed Yuletide concert experience 7:30 pm at the Port Theatre. Hear ‘Jerry Lee Lewis’ and ‘Buddy Holly’ perform their hits and seasonal favourites. FMI porttheatre.com

petphotos

NOVEMBER 22 to DECEMBER 24

WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY 4 – 7PM

Santa will be available for digital photos by Lifetouch Photography

Saturday & Sunday . . . . . 11am – 1pm & 2 – 5pmMonday-Friday . . . . . . . . . 11am – 2pm & 3 – 7pm EXCEPTION DATES: . . . . . . Nov . 24, 25 & 26 • 11am – 2pm & 3 – 5pm

All pets must be on a leash or in a crate and under control at all times .

1ST PRIZE $100 Nanaimo North Town Centre Gift Card2ND PRIZE $50 Nanaimo North Town Centre Gift Card

Contest closes December 18 at 7pm

The Season of GivingNov 22 – Jan 4

See it ~ Experience it

ENTER YOUR PET FOR A CHANCE TO

WIN!

santahours

Kind

ness

Counts

because we care...

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THEATRE / ACTINGSpotlight Academy Jacqui Kaese - Tel 250.714.2555 spotlightacademy.com

Acting | Film | Theatre | TV Classes for all ages – various locations. Jacqui Kaese trained Cameron Bright known for many roles including the Twilight movies.

“Jacqui is an amazing teacher and mentor. She is one of the most caring, supportive and professional people you will ever meet.” - Cameron Bright

DANCECrimson Coast Dance Society 150 Commercial St. 10b - Tel 250.716.3230 Hot Dance In Your Home Town Classes, performances, dance jams for all ages.Check it at: www.crimsoncoastdance.org

Vibe Dance School1969 Boxwood Rd, Nanaimo Tel 250.591.2726 www.vibrantdance.com

Vibrant Studios is Nanaimo's Premier Hip Hop and Break Dance School.

Performance ArtsNANAIMO

13 DEC SATChristmas Trolley: Fred and Barney are back! Ride the Downtown Nanaimo Christmas Trolley Dec 6, 13th or 20th from noon to 4 pm. Hop on or off at 100 Museum Way and on Wesley Street in the Old City Quarter. Free! FMI dnbia.ca

VIS Christmas Concert: trumpets and horns herald in a traditional family Christmas courtesy of the Vancouver Island Symphony and special guests. ‘A Festive Brass Christmas’ takes place at the Port Theatre at 7:30 pm. FMI/tix 250.754.8550

Ice Sculpting Demonstrations: Diana Krall Plaza starting at 10 am. Hosted by the DNBIA. Free. FMI coolasice.ca

Nanaimo Hockey: cheer on the Nanaimo Buccaneers as they take on Campbell River at the Nanaimo Ice Centre, game time 7:15 pm. FMI/tix buccaneers.vijhl.com or 250.616.1404

Live Music: enjoy the sounds of the season from Dec 6 - 14 at Woodgrove Centre food court! Choirs, choral and musical groups will be performing, Schedule at woodgrovecentre.com

12 DEC FRISanta’s Workshop: 3 - 6 pm Friday’s in December at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. Visit with Santa, make a Christmas craft, watch a Christmas classic and enjoy hot chocolate. Free. Don’t forget your camera! FMI www.dnbia.ca

Festival of Trees: Nanaimo North Town Centre’s first annual event in support of BC Children’s Hospital. Until Jan 4. FMI nanaimonorth.com

Christmas Concert: the Sinclair Singers present their Christmas concert at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Nanaimo at 7:30 pm. Tickets: $15 ($5 for students) at the door. FMI nanaimosings.com

22nd Annual Singing Christmas Tree: performances Dec 5 - 7 and Dec 12 - 14 at Generations Church. 7 pm shows each night with 4 pm matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Free tix available at Generations Church and The Buzz Coffee House.FMI generations.ca

Nanaimo Hockey: cheer on the Nanaimo Clippers as they take on Alberni Valley at Frank Crane Arena. Game time 7 pm. FMI/tix nanaimoclippers.com

Live Music: ‘Butts Girard and Andre Kaufmann’ at ACMe Food Co. 7:00 - 10:00 pm. No cover, reservations recommended at 250.753.0042

Live Music: ‘Sue Medley and the Back Road Band’ take the stage at the Queens at 8 pm. Special guests the ‘Hub City Ramblers’. Tix $20/advance, $25/door. Tix at the Queens and Arbutus Music. FMI porttheatre.com

8th Annual Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular: Dec 5-7 and Dec 12-14 at Cedar Community Hall and Dec 19-21 at the Port Theatre. FMI/tix yellowpointchristmasspectacular.ca or 250.754.8550

Live Music: enjoy the sounds of the season from Dec 6 - 14 at Woodgrove Centre food court! Choirs, choral and musical groups will be performing, Schedule at woodgrovecentre.com

West Coast Blues Doctors Dance Party: Royal Canadian Legion Br #10 starting at 8 pm. Tix $12 in advance from Fascinating Rhythm, Arbutus Music, Legion 10 or $15 at the door. FMI 250.797.2500

Under the Christmas Tree EventDecember 13th, 12pm - 3pm

December 1 - January 5

1950sChristmas

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Your Computer Guy Article by Steve Duckett

We all have passwords that we have to remember on our computers, here are a few rules of thumb for you to remember.

10 Common passwords: love, money, private, qwerty, secret, snoopy, & (surprise!) password, so try not to use these as they are easy to guess.

Your name, initials, location (postal code), birth-day, pets, license plate family/friend's names (in-cluding maiden), locations, birthdays, pets All these are easy to guess and allow access to sensi-tive material.

So what do you use? Any word with at least 8 characters,some capitalized some not and if you want it really safe add numbers and characters like @ # $, Eg. PasTery45# This is a very strong pass-word and one that is almost impossible to crack. There are brute force cracking programs out there so if your info is TOP SECRET just make sure you use the above rules but make the password over 13 characters long. Eg PasTery45#%fA. No one’s cracking that.

Passwords. A necessary evil

BITRATE COMPUTER SERVICES

www.bitratecomputers.com

tel. 250.619.1275 [email protected]

· Complete computer repair for $60

· No Run-Around, No Tech-talk

· 1 Day turnaround

· No extra charges or surprises

Bitrate has a simple concept

NANAIMO’S OWN!

Santa’s Workshop: 12 - 5 pm Saturday’s in December at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. Visit with Santa, make a Christmas craft, watch a Christmas classic and enjoy hot chocolate. Free. Don’t forget your camera! FMI www.dnbia.ca

22nd Annual Singing Christmas Tree: performances Dec 5 - 7 and Dec 12 - 14 at Generations Church. 7 pm shows each night with 4 pm matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Free tix available at Generations Church and The Buzz Coffee House. FMI generations.ca

Live Music: enjoy the sounds of the season from Dec 6 - 14 at Woodgrove Centre food court! Choirs, choral and musical groups will be performing, Schedule at woodgrovecentre.com

Live Music: ‘Almost Famous’ plays the Wellington Hotel Pub starting at 9 pm. No cover. FMI 250.758.5513

Saturday Studio: ‘Wonder-Full Time of the Year’ at Art Lab! Fun with printmaking inspired by winter celebrations from around the world. For kids 5 - 11, 10:30 am - 12 noon at Nanaimo Art Gallery downtown.$12/child. Register at 250.754.1750

Family Christmas Fun: ‘Under the Christmas Tree’ is an afternoon of stories, crafts, toys and treats at the Nanaimo Museum! 12 - 3 pm. Admission by donation. FMI nanaimomuseum.ca or 250.753.1821

8th Annual Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular: Dec 5-7 and Dec 12-14 at Cedar Community Hall and Dec 19-21 at the Port Theatre. FMI/tix yellowpointchristmasspectacular.ca or 250.754.8550

14 DEC SUNLive Music: ‘Winter Harp’ returns to the Port Theatre at 8 pm for their annual yuletide performance of ancient and familiar carols. FMI/tix 250.754.8550

Phone: 250.755.6487 www.nanaimobusinessservices.comoffice@nanaimobusinessservices.com

NewlyFurnishedOffices Equipped Boardrooms Wireless Internet Parking Available Air Conditioned Lunch Area

But for many people it’s not easy to pick up the phone and ask if you can come for a visit. You’ve never been here. You may not have any friends and neighbors you know who send their children to a school like Aspengrove. So, how do you take the first step?

At Aspengrove we host open houses on the last Wednesday of every month. They are casual, work-

Taking the first stepYou may have looked at the options available to you and decided that you want to learn more about a school like Aspengrove.

ing on a drop in basis. We start at 9AM so the rush of families arriving has gone. No appointments necessary, you just stop by the school with or with-out your kids and walk in the front door. Friendly faces are there to greet you. You can look around and get a feel for Aspengrove in action. You’ll see small classes, happy engaged students, and lots of learning! You can sit in on a class or enjoy a tour of the school and our 40-acre campus.

Please, drop in for one of our upcoming open houses. We’re waiting to welcome you.

Next Aspengrove Open Houses November 26 and January 28 or call to book an alternate time to visit. More information is available at Aspengroveschool.ca

Aspengrove School 7660 Clark Dr, Lantzville, BC V0R 2H0

Tel. (250) 390-2201 | www.aspengroveschool.ca

ASPIRE, GROW, SUCCEED.

Fête de Noël Christmas Celebration

13 déc / Dec 13 / 2014Membres: Gratuit

Non-membres: 10$ ou 15$ pour la famille

Nombre de places limité. Contactez-nous pour

une réservation.Members: Free

Non-members: $10or $15 per familySpace is limited.

Call us for a reservation.

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Meilleurs voeux de L’AFN !Season’s Greetings from L’AFN!

Commençant à 16h00 : artisanats, visite du Père Noël, souper communautaire

Beginning at 4:00 pm: kids’ crafts, visit from Santa Claus, community supper

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Friendly faces are there to greet you.

Island Girl Art Studio offers weekly classes, One Day Workshops, and Private Instruction. Don't miss our Art, Culture & Culinary Tours of Italy and Haida Gwai! We also have Gift Certificates. Art Commissions gladly accepted.Check out Penny Maday's Art in the December Issue of Southwest Art Magazine and North Light Books new publication "Incite 2- Color Passions". www.IslandGirlArtStudio.com

This lovely little poem by Susan Constable of Nanoose Bay, is called a tanka – a five-line poem that often combines an image with a comment, which is usually philosophical, about that image. Here, by paralleling a scene in nature with human behaviour, Susan draws the whole of life closer together. We are part of the ecological landscape – we love, we mate, we grow old, we downsize. Poetry continually reminds us of this.

Susan excels in the Japanese poetry forms of haiku, tanka, haibun, and haiga, and, of course gets her inspiration from life on the west coast of Canada. She has won poetry awards including placing 1st in the 2010 Francine Porad Contest, 3rd place in the 2012 Robert Speiss Contest, and 1st place and Editor’s Choice Award in World Haiku Review, April 2012. She received 3rd place in the Tanka Society of America Contest for 2010 and her tanka collection, The Eternity of Waves is a Snapshot Press winner for 2012.

Susan currently serves as the tanka editor for the online journal, A Hundred Gourds. There are so many quiet, modest, but enormously talented, behind-the-scenes poets in the area (such as Susan), and I appreciate this chance to introduce you to some of them.

Poets Cove Presented by Naomi Beth Wakan

a hermit crab moves into a deserted shell on the beach— we search quiet neighbourhoods for a smaller house and yard

POETRY IN TOWN

Santa’s Workshop: 12 - 4 pm Sunday’s in December at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. Visit with Santa, make a Christmas craft, watch a Christmas classic and enjoy hot chocolate. Free. Don’t forget your camera! FMI www.dnbia.ca

Christmas Concert: the Yellow Point Singers present their Christmas program at Oceanview Community Church in Ladysmith at 2:30 pm with guests the BC Boys Choir. Tix at the door $10/$20 for family. FMI www.nanaimosings.com

Free Lions Skate: fun for everyone! Free admission, skate and helmet rentals 12 - 1:30 pm at Frank Crane Arena. FMI 250.756.5200

2nd Annual Singing Christmas Tree: performances Dec 5 - 7 and Dec 12 - 14 at Generations Church. 7 pm shows each night with 4 pm matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Free tix available at Generations Church and The Buzz Coffee House. FMI generations.ca

Christmas Concert: The Island Consort and The Sinclair Singers present ‘What Sweeter Music’, a joyous Christmas program at Brechin United Church at 7:30 pm. Admission $18/$9 students at the door. FMI nanaimosings.com

Live Music: enjoy the sounds of the season from Dec 6 - 14 at Woodgrove Centre food court! Choirs, choral and musical groups will be performing, Schedule at woodgrovecentre.com

2Nanaimo Hockey: cheer on the Nanaimo Clippers as they take on Vernon at Frank Crane Arena. Game time 2 pm. FMI/tix nanaimoclippers.com

8th Annual Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular: Dec 5-7 and Dec 12-14 at Cedar Community Hall and Dec 19-21 at the Port Theatre. FMI/tix yellowpointchristmasspectacular.ca or 250.754.8550

A Celtic Christmas: Brigadoon Dance Academy presents ‘A Christmas Eve in Scotland’ at the Port Theatre at 2 pm. FMI/tix 250.754.8550

Whether you are going away for the winter or not, getting your vehicle ready for the winter is critical. Please use the points below to help you properly winterize your vehicle:

Always book a full service for a winter inspection. Your mechanic should check your coolant, change your oil, put on your winter snow tires, test your battery, check your belts and lights.

Have any rock chips fixed and filled. This is important even if you are planning on storing your car for the winter while you are away. Below zero temperatures can make cracks expand.

Make sure that you have appropriate windshield washer fluid in your vehicle to prevent your washer fluid from freezing. If not, your local trusty mechanic can drain the summer washer fluid and refill the washer bottle with winter ready fluid.

If you are leaving your vehicle for an extended period of time during the winter, get an automatic battery charger service or completely disconnect your battery. A battery charger service will keep your battery topped off as needed. Alternately, disconnecting the battery will keep it fresh for when you need it.

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15 DEC MONFestival of Trees: Nanaimo North Town Centre’s first annual event in support of BC Children’s Hospital. Until Jan 4. FMI nanaimonorth.com

16 DEC TUEGlow in the Dark Skate: skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects! 6:30 - 8 pm at Frank Crane Arena. Regular admission rates, glow necklaces $2. FMI 250.756.5200

Christmas Game Night: this is a fun-filled ‘Minute to Win It’ game night for kids 5+ and their families at Wellington Branch Library 6:30 - 7:30 pm. Free. FMI/register at 250.758.5544 ext 1

17 DEC WEDFestival of Trees: Nanaimo North Town Centre’s first annual event in support of BC Children’s Hospital. Until Jan 4. FMI nanaimonorth.com

Photos with Santa: until Dec 24 at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Pet Photo Contest until Dec 18. FMI nanaimonorth.com

Live Music: ‘Marty Steele’ plays various piano stylings at ACMe Food Co 6:30 - 8:30 pm. No cover, reservations recommended at 250.753.0042

Live Music: ‘An Intimate Evening with Frank Mills’ takes place at the Port Theatre at 7 pm. Mills is a multi-award winning pianist known the world over for his hit ‘Music Box Dancer’. FMI/tix 250.754.8550

18 DEC THUFestival of Trees: Nanaimo North Town Centre’s first annual event in support of BC Children’s Hospital. Until Jan 4. FMI nanaimonorth.com

Photos with Santa: until Dec 24 at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Pet Photo Contest until Dec 18. FMI nanaimonorth.com

Nanaimo Hockey: cheer on the Nanaimo Buccaneers as they take on Oceanside at the Nanaimo Ice Centre, game time 7:15 pm. FMI/tix buccaneers.vijhl.com or 250.616.1404

Christmas Extravaganza: celebrate the season with a puppet show, stories, song and craft! Wellington Branch Library 10:15 - 11 am for kids 0 - 6 years and their families. Free. FMI/register 250.758.5544 ext 1

19 DEC FRISanta’s Workshop: 3 - 6 pm Friday’s in December at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. Visit with Santa, make a Christmas craft, watch a Christmas classic and enjoy hot chocolate. Free. Don’t forget your camera! FMI www.dnbia.ca

Live Music: ‘Fred Saliani with Earl Scott’ at ACMe Food Co. 7:00 - 10:00 pm. No cover, reservations recommended at 250.753.0042

Christmas Pantomime: Ladysmith Little Theatre proudly presents `Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves` Dec 19 - 23 and Dec 26 - 31. Evening and matinee shows available. Tix $15 except New Year`s Eve celebration which is $40. FMI/tix ladysmiththeatre.ca or 250.924.0658

Nanaimo Hockey: cheer on the Nanaimo Clippers as they take on Cowichan Valley at Frank Crane Arena. Game time 7 pm. FMI/tix nanaimoclippers.com

Christmas Pantomime: Nanaimo Theatre Group proudly presents “Pirates of the Panto’ at Bailey Studio Dec 19 - 31. Evening and matinee shows available, tix $16. New Years Eve show starts at 9 pm with food and drinks, tix $25. FMI/tix nanaimotheatregroup.com or 250.758.7224

8th Annual Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular: Dec 5-7 and Dec 12-14 at Cedar Community Hall and Dec 19-21 at the Port Theatre. FMI/tix yellowpointchristmasspectacular.ca or 250.754.8550

20 DEC SATChristmas Trolley: Fred and Barney are back! Ride the Downtown Nanaimo Christmas Trolley Dec 6, 13th or 20th from noon to 4 pm. Hop on or off at 100 Museum Way and on Wesley Street in the Old City Quarter. Free! FMI dnbia.ca

Santa’s Workshop: 12 - 5 pm Saturday’s in December at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. Visit with Santa, make a Christmas craft, watch a Christmas classic and enjoy hot chocolate. Free. Don’t forget your camera! FMI www.dnbia.ca

Paw Prints: kids are welcome to drop-in to Harbourfront Library between 10 - 11 am and read toCayley the therapy dog. FMI 250.753.1154

Lego Club: Wellington Branch Library 11 am - 12 noon for kids 5 - 12 years. Free. FMI 250.758.5544

13

Christmas Pantomime: Nanaimo Theatre Group proudly presents “Pirates of the Panto’ at Bailey Studio Dec 19 - 31. FMI/tix nanaimotheatregroup.com or 250.758.7224

Christmas Pantomime: Ladysmith Little Theatre proudly presents `Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves` Dec 19 - 23 and Dec 26 - 31. FMI/tix ladysmiththeatre.ca or 250.924.0658

Live Music: the Nanaimo Blues Society presents a tribute to the Blues Songs of Christmas with Victoria’s own ‘Uncle Wiggly’s Hot Shoes Blues Band’ at Malaspina Theatre at 7;30 pm. FMI/tix 250.754.8550 or porttheatre.com

Live Music: ‘Hair Nation’ plays the Wellington Hotel Pub starting at 9 pm. No cover. FMI 250.758.5513

The TV game show was really close. One contestant

was asked to name 2 of Santa’s reindeer. The contestant gave a sigh thinking that he had finally been given an easy question, “Rudolph and Olive!”

The host asked the contestant, “We’ll accept Rudolph but can you explain Olive?”

The man looked at the host and said, “You know, ‘Olive,’ the other reindeer, used to laugh and call him names...”

JOKE.Titles shown may not be available at your local venue.

cinemaDec 5: The Pyramid, Top

Five, Dying of the Light

Dec 12: Beyond the Light,

Dumb & Dumber To,

Foxcatcher, Rosewater

Exodus: Gods & Kings, Top

Five, Inherent Vice

Dec 19: The Hobbit: Battle

of the Five Armies, Night at

the Museum: Secret of the

Tomb, Annie

Whats On Screen

video

Dec 2: As Above, So Below, The Hundred Foot Journey, The Congress, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

Dec 16: Lets Be Cops, Jersey Boys, Stonehurst Asylum, Magic Magic

Dec 30: Reach Me

games

Dec 2: The Crew, Kingdom

Hearts HD 2.5 Remix

Dec 5: Captain Toad Treasure

Tracker, NES Remix Pack,

Ultimate NES Remix Track

Dec 9: Lara Croft and the

Temple of Osiris, Phoenix

Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy,

The Talos Principle

Dec 16: Elite Dangerous,

Guilty Gear Xrd Sign

14

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Katy Bowen-Roberts has been working since January on the creation of another new show to bring to the audiences of Vancouver Island. “Choosing the music is a treat,” says Katy. “What could be more wonderful than listen-ing to hundreds of pieces of music of different genres, styles and eras? I am always amazed by how much music there is to choose from.”

This year’s show promises to be as exciting as ever. From dancing to a set of dazzling disco hits, to jam-ming with the Creedence Clearwater Revival band, to a little country dancing with Dolly Parton. The sequins will be out again for a beautiful medley of Elton John songs and the energy will be high as highlights from West Side Story including ‘Ameri-ca’ are danced on the stage. The Grinch will be seen stirring up the Christmas magic while the Toy Sol-diers will tap their way into the story.

The format is similar but the music is always differ-ent and that’s what brings audiences back year after year. As the theatre begins to buzz on opening night, the excitement builds. What will the costumes be like this year? Will we see new talent or will we see returning cast members? What Elton John hits did they choose? What’s the opening Broadway number this year? So many questions are buzzing around the room. The lights dim, the voices become whispers

and the band begins to play. It’s time to be whisked away to another world. A world of live dance and music, Christmas cheer, colorful costumes, and of course laughter and tears. There’s something in it for everyone so you don’t want to miss out!

For more information about the show, please visit www.yellowpointchristmasspectacular.ca. It’s quickly becoming a tradition for audiences across Vancouver Island. It is a favorite among bus tour groups, staff parties, family and friend reunions, and festive celebrations. Book your tickets soon so that you don’t miss this spectacular event.

Tickets are on sale now at the Port Box office (250.754.8550). The 2014 show runs from Dec. 5th – Dec. 21st, 2014 with 11 performances at the Cedar Community Hall and four at the Port Theatre. Call to book yours now!

Year eight for the Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular!

Abbamania is the world’s number one production of Abba. Hear the hits from “Waterloo, S.O.S to Dancing Queen”. Also on the same show is Night Fever as the Bee Gees. With all the high harmonies and stage presence of the Bee Gees, they will

be performing songs from “Jive Talking, Too Love Somebody, Stayin’Alive to You Should Be Dancing” plus many more. Performing over 200 concerts a year they will take you back in time when Abba and

The Bee Gees ruled the pop music world.

Sid Williams TheatreCourtenay

Jan. 14, 2015

The Port TheatreNanaimo

Jan. 16, 2015

The Cowichan TheatreDuncan

Jan. 12, 2015

The Abyss TheatrePort Alberni

Jan. 13, 2015

Tidemark TheatreCampbell River

Jan. 15, 2015

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"Now Dasher! Now, Dancer! Now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! On, Cupid! On, on Donner and Blitzen! To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall! Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!"

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, when they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky. So up to the house-top the coursers they flew, with the sleigh full of Toys, and St Nicholas too.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof. As I drew in my head, and was turning around, down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot. A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back, and he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads. And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap, had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter. Away to the window I flew like a flash, tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below. When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, but a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer.

With a little old driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St Nick. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, and he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!

Twas the Night Before Christmas

Clement Clarke Moore (1779 - 1863)

For Yourhome ‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.

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His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, and the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath. He had a broad face and a little round belly, that shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself! A wink of his eye and a twist of his head, soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk. And laying his finger aside of his nose, and giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, and away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight, "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"

Twas the Night Before Christmas

Clement Clarke Moore (1779 - 1863)

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Happy Holidaysfrom the United Floors family to you and yours

The sentiment here is one we can all relate to. Christmas is a time of joy and celebration. For the kids it’s the excitement of seeing what Santa will bring and for the older folks, I think, it’s about seeing that expression of joy on those little faces. It’s both the pure joy of sharing in someone’s’ happiness but it’s also remembering younger days. As a parent I appreciate the fleeting nature of time in terms of wanting savor the enjoyment of making my kids happy but also noticing how quickly they grow from wide eyed toddlers to the phase of ripping through the presents to wanting a car for Christmas. It goes by quickly. I think the “way the old folks smile” is a combination of lament for how quickly the days race by and a complete appreciation of the importance of enjoying the moments that are right in front of you.

In 1985 Bryan Adams co-wrote, with Jim Vallance, a Christmas ballad called

“Christmas Time.”

In the song there is one line that says “…to see the joy in the children’s eyes, the way that the old folks smile, it tells you Christmas will never go away.”

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Article by Simon Rideout

8th Annual Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular: Dec 5-7 and Dec 12-14 at Cedar Community Hall and Dec 19-21 at the Port Theatre. FMI/tix yellowpointchristmasspectacular.ca or 250.754.8550

21 DEC SUNNanaimo Hockey: cheer on the Nanaimo Buccaneers as they take on Victoria at the Nanaimo Ice Centre, game time 7:00 pm. FMI/tix buccaneers.vijhl.com or 250.616.1404

Santa’s Workshop: 12 - 4 pm Sunday’s in December at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. Visit with Santa, make a Christmas craft, watch a Christmas classic and enjoy hot chocolate. Free. Don’t forget your camera! FMI www.dnbia.ca

Christmas Pantomime: Nanaimo Theatre Group proudly presents “Pirates of the Panto’ at Bailey Studio Dec 19 - 31. FMI/tix nanaimotheatregroup.com or 250.758.7224

Christmas Pantomime: Ladysmith Little Theatre proudly presents `Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves` Dec 19 - 23 and Dec 26 - 31. FMI/tix ladysmiththeatre.ca or 250.924.0658

Two Worlds Spiritualist Centre Service: Morpeth Hall, Nanaimo at 11 am. Fellowship and refreshments to follow. FMI 250.729.9086

Free Lions Skate: fun for everyone! Free admission, skate and helmet rentals 12 - 1:30 pm at Frank Crane Arena. FMI 250.756.5200

8th Annual Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular: Dec 5-7 and Dec 12-14 at Cedar Community Hall and Dec 19-21 at the Port Theatre. FMI/tix yellowpointchristmasspectacular.ca or 250.754.8550

22 DEC MONFestival of Trees: Nanaimo North Town Centre’s first annual event in support of BC Children’s Hospital. Until Jan 4. FMI nanaimonorth.com

Christmas Pantomime: Ladysmith Little Theatre proudly presents `Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves` Dec 19 - 23 and Dec 26 - 31. FMI/tix ladysmiththeatre.ca or 250.924.0658

Live Theatre: last day for the holiday mystery ‘Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol’ at Chemainus Theatre Festival. FMI chemainustheatrefestival.ca or 1-800-565-7738

Tuesday & Wednesday, December 9th & 10th, 7:30pm Ticket centre - 250-754-8550

Capture the imagination of the entire family with the magic of the beloved Nutcracker. This treasured holiday classic, danced to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, takes audiences on a wondrous adventure with Clara, her Nutcracker Prince and the Sugar Plum Fairy. Nutcracker is a heart- warming ballet full of surprises, featuring endearing Canadian scenes such as a snowy pond hockey game and a battle on Parliament Hill.

Join this Yuletide ensemble as it whisks you to a far-off land of moonlight, castles and snow. It’s like being in an ethereal medieval dream — hauntingly beautiful, yet as cozy and warm as Christmas. Carols, both familiar and ancient, will set your heart singing as you journey with the musicians to Christmases of long ago. Gorgeous medieval gowns and a stage set with candles and breathtakingly beautiful backdrops of cathedral and snow add to the beauty of this unique show. This is Winter Harp — this is Christmas

The Port Theatre Spotlight Series presents

The Port Theatre Spotlight Series presents

Winnipeg Free Press

Nutcracker endures as a captivating fantasy

The Province

An enrapturing event that plucks at

your heart strings.Sunday, December 14th, 8:00 pm

Ticket centre - 250-754-8550

Dec 6 Allison Crowe at the Port Theatre. A Nanaimo girl comes home to sing all your favourite Christmas Carols. (details page 4)

Dec 11 If you like comedy Garrett Clark, Emma Cooper and Biff Bartlett will be doing a comedy show at the Dingy Dock tickets are only $15 and includes the ferry

Dec 12 Sue Medley and the Hub City Ramblers do an early show at the Queens

Dec 13 Hip Hop at Cambie w/Skulastic, Curtis-C, as well as the host of the event, Jinx Tha Konstrikta. Also, check out the standup comedy act by Malcolm "Party Gramps" Wright.

Dec 13 Festive Brassy Christmas with Symphonic Children’s Choir and the VIS soul stirring music that is near and dear to all. Port Theatre (details page 5)

Dec 14 Shaun Verreault lead singer Wide Mouth Mason will be doing an up close and personal show at SIMON HOLT This show is very early and opens with Ian Perry at 6:30. Doors are at 5:00 order your dinner (if you would like) and show starts at 6:30. Shaun is on by 7. Tickets available at SIMON HOLT.

Dec 19 Jerry Hong has decided to do an outdoor FREE concert with EVERLAST down at Dianna Krall Plaza. Need I say more ? Everlast acoustic show will be packed to the rafters.

Opening for Everlast: Kytami, and Jayden Holman

Dec 22 Kandle and Krooks – the daughter of the very famous Neil Osbourne (of 54-40 fame) brings her band to the Queens brought to you by Got Pop

Dec 29 THE QUEENS a Variety Show w/ Vetsta Entertainment doing a LED dance presentation and a great many acoustic artists including Alex Wickett ,Tyrell Beal and Tora Leigh, the Distributors as a duo, and a blast from the past DAMN the DIVA doing some 90’s tunes.

NEW YEAR’S EVE David Gogo Simon Holt; Coal Moon The Vault; David James and BIG RIVER The Crofton Hotel; Femme Fatale at the Queens If you want to celebrate NYE every NY Style Pizza is celebrating it at 9PM ( NEW YORK TIME) w/ Marty Steele

Photos with Santa: until Dec 24 at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Pet Photo Contest until Dec 18. FMI nanaimonorth.com

23 DEC TUEFestival of Trees: Nanaimo North Town Centre’s first annual event in support of BC Children’s Hospital. Until Jan 4. FMI nanaimonorth.com

Photos with Santa: until Dec 24 at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Pet Photo Contest until Dec 18. FMI nanaimonorth.com

Christmas Pantomime: Ladysmith Little Theatre proudly presents `Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves` Dec 19 - 23 and Dec 26 - 31. FMI/tix ladysmiththeatre.ca or 250.924.0658

24 DEC WEDPhotos with Santa: until Dec 24 at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Pet Photo Contest until Dec 18. FMI nanaimonorth.com

25 DEC THU - CHRISTMAS DAY

26 DEC FRIWinter Wonderland: at Frank Crane Arena for skaters of all ages and abilities to enjoy! 11:45 am - 3 pm. Admission $1, skate and helmet rentals free. FMI 250.756.5200

Christmas Pantomime: Nanaimo Theatre Group proudly presents “Pirates of the Panto’ at Bailey Studio Dec 19 - 31. FMI/tix nanaimotheatregroup.com or 250.758.7224

Christmas Pantomime: Ladysmith Little Theatre proudly presents `Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves` Dec 19 - 23 and Dec 26 - 31. FMI/tix ladysmiththeatre.ca or 250.924.0658

Live Music: ‘Scott Brown - Manglewood’ at ACMe Food Co. 7:00 - 10:00 pm. No cover, reservations recommended at 250.753.0042

22

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1-877-959-3443Education for Today’s Jobs.

“ I had an interview the day of graduation and was hired on the spot. I never thought I would see a paycheck like that!”

Cindy M.Graduate, Health Care Assistant

THE POWER OFPARTNERINGWITH INDUSTRY

GRADUATEEMPLOYMENTRATE (2012)96%

CALL NOWClasses commencing soon

Limited seatsavailable!

The gogo farm started operating in 1897. John Gogo Sr. had all the usual farm animals and supplied the families of coal miners with meat, eggs, and fresh produce in season including a large orchard. In 1929 the depression hit. Log-gers and farmers started to ex-port bailed Christmas Trees to the US via rail. Over 100 box cars were shipped each season. Today 90% of the trees sold in BC come from Washington and Oregon.

In 1929 John Gogo Jr. started exporting trees and the fam-ily business is still going and growing strong. In the sixties westarted retailing from a house on Fifth St. in Harewood and in 1981 son Mike opened the farm to a new concept called "Choose and Cut" where the families come to the farm and choose any tree from a plantation of 50,000 trees of 4 different species.

The customers are greeted and given a Swede saw and can drive around the 160 farm and cut the tree of their choice. All the trees are fertilized

so as to retain their softness and fragrant scent. The sales have increased every year and now more than 10 schools and charities partner with our farm to fund community projects.

Instructions are given for the care for the care of the fresh trees and, if followed, they will retain their freshness for many weeks. For the safety of our customers NO DOGS are allowed on the land. All trees are priced at $25 incl taxes re-gardless of their size. We also have a tree lot at 55 Pryde St in Nanaimo for those who prefer a precut tree.

The farm hours are 8AM to 5PM n the farm 250-754-2276 and 10AM to 7PM on Pryde St. 250-619-7730 both are open 7 days a week. The farm

sales start November 15th and the Pryde St sales start Dec 1st. Lots of high quality choco-late is given to each and all as they leave the farm. You are more than welcome to join us in celebrating our 85th year supplying world class trees to our island customers.

SaysSimonThe magic of Christmas is alive and well. Simon Rideout

Sunday Blues Jam: Queens Hotel from 4 - 8 pm. Rotation of blues bands featured. Adults $5, jammers free. FMI 250.754.6751

27 DEC SATLive Music: ‘Johnny Inappropriate’ plays the Wellington Hotel Pub starting at 9 pm. No cover. FMI 250.758.5513

Winter Wonderland: at Frank Crane Arena. 10 - 11:30 am (parent and tot) 11:45 am - 4:45 pm and 7:45 - 9:30 pm. Admission $1 with all skate and helmet rentals free. FMI 250.756.5200

Christmas Pantomime: Nanaimo Theatre Group proudly presents “Pirates of the Panto’ at Bailey Studio Dec 19 - 31. FMI/tix nanaimotheatregroup.com or 250.758.7224

Christmas Pantomime: Ladysmith Little Theatre proudly presents `Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves` Dec 19 - 23 and Dec 26 - 31. FMI/tix ladysmiththeatre.ca or 250.924.0658

28 DEC SUNWinter Wonderland: at Frank Crane Arena. Everyone welcome! 10 - 11:30 am (family) 11:45 am - 4:45 pm and 7:45 - 9:30 pm. Admission $1 with all skate and helmet rentals free. FMI 250.756.5200

Christmas Pantomime: Nanaimo Theatre Group proudly presents “Pirates of the Panto’ at Bailey Studio Dec 19 - 31. FMI/tix nanaimotheatregroup.com or 250.758.7224

YOUR FITNESS NOW

I know starting a fitness program can be a tough thing but there is no perfect time and never will be. The very best time to start is right now!

I have been working with a client now for the past 7 weeks. He has fibromyalgia. If you are not familiar with Fibromyalgia is characterised by chronic widespread pain and allodynia (a heightened and painful response to pressure).

Fibromyalgia symptoms are not restricted to pain. Other symptoms include debilitating fatigue, sleep disturbance, and joint stiffness.

We started slow and steady with training and a diet consisting of low inflammatory foods. Since starting his fitness journey he has noticed less pain and is able to move more easily day by day. Every day he notices something new that he hasn’t be able to do in years. The question came up the other day in session. “Why didn’t I start this years ago?” The moral of this story is that even if you feel debilitated due to injuries or arthritis, even being pregnant, there is always a way that you can start.

The Best Season to start a fitness routine

You might be lucky enough to start without health implications. It is comforting to know that there is no feat that cannot be overcome.

In my experience it is important to include the following in your training regimen:

- Flexibility training in tight areas- Weight training- Muscle balancing- Postural training

If you are unsure where to start or even just need some extra motivation to get your journey started. Please feel free to contact me for a free consultation.

Erin Crawford Owner of Body Tempo Health and Fitness

Certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition coaching Certified Pre and postnatal Training Specialist

Follow me on Twitter and Instagram @bodytempo www.bodytempo.com | [email protected] Tel 250 618 3443

Monthly Group TrainingMon, Wed and Fri

Choose either 1x to 3x per week!

Includes monthly measurements and

BONUS offer of 60% off Menu plans when you join for 1 month!

NOW OFFERING

Call Erin at 250.618.3443 today or email [email protected]

LOCATED OUTSIDE SAVE-ON FOODS AT Country Club Centre

WINSTON’S TEA CO. #101-3200 N. ISLAND HWY. NANAIMO BC 250-751-1031

Technology Tuesdays: free eBook/computer help at Harbourfront Library 3:30 - 5 pm. Drop-in. FMI 250.753.1154

EVERY WEDNESDAYTango Dance Lessons: Fibber Magees FMI 250.591.0650Drop-in Ukelele: Harbourfront Library 5:30 - 7:30 pm. Free. FMI 250.753.1154Babytime: Wednesdays at Harbourfront Branch library until Dec 10, 11:30 - 12 noon. Drop-in, free. Siblings welcome. FMI 250.753.1154 Family Storytime: Wednesdays at Harbourfront Branch library until Dec 10, 10:30 - 11:15 am. Free, drop-in. FMI 250.753.1154Tiny Tots Play Group: weekly drop-in for little ones and their caregivers at Country Club Centre, 10 - 11 am. On Christmas Break until Jan 7. Free. FMI 250.758.1102Youth Drop-In: the ultimate hang out for youth 12 - 17 years! Supervised space with regular gymnasium activities and more. Wednesdays at John Barsby Community School. Free! FMI 250.756.5200Babytime: Dec 3 & 10 at Wellington Branch Library, 11:15 - 11:45 am for 0 - 18 months. Drop-in, free. FMI 250.758.5544 ext 1Book a Librarian: get computer and eBook help! Book a 30 min session with a librarian at Wellington Branch Library, offered Dec 3, 10 and 17 between 3 - 5 pm. Register at the branch or call 250.758.5544 ext 1

EVERY THURSDAYSpanish Conversation Club: casual and friendly gathering at Harbourfront Library 6:30 - 7:30 pm. FMI 250.753.1154Open Mic Night: spoken word/music at Serious Coffee on Commercial (downtown) 6:30 - 9 pm. Songwriters draw for studio time. FMI Guy at 250.618.2924Nanaimo Scottish Country Dancers: 7:30pm at Pleasant Valley Hall (Doumont Rd at Metral Dr) A fun filled evening of music and dance. FMI call Hazel 250-758-6224Toddlertime: Thurs Dec 4 and 11 at Wellington Branch Library, 10:15 - 10:45 am for 18 - 36 months. Siblings welcome! Drop-in, free. FMI 250.758.5544 ext 1Pre-School Storytime: Thurs Dec 4 and 11 at Wellington Branch Library, 11:15 - 11:45 am for 3 - 5 years. Siblings welcome! Drop-in, free. FMI 250.758.5544 ext 1Live Music: live acoustic music starting at 8 pm every Thursday at Longwood Brew Pub. FMI 250.729.8225

EVERY FRIDAY Live Music: at Harewood Arms Pub. FMI 250.754.2566 Live Music: The Queen’s 250.754.6751

EVERY WEEK

DAILYNanaimo Art Gallery (Downtown and Campus) ‘Black Diamond Dust’ is a multi-site art exhibition considering the sedimentary nature of Nanaimo’s coal-mining history through sculpture, video, historical artifacts and off-site public projects. Showing at both Nanaimo Art Gallery locations until Dec 15. Admission is free. FMI nanaimoartgallery.comNanaimo Museum: ‘1950s Christmas’ is a charming seasonal exhibit at the Nanaimo Museum Dec 1 - Jan 5. It will explore popular culture in days gone by through toys, furniture, photos and Christmas decorations. Admission in Dec by cash donation to Great Nanaimo Toy Drive. FMI/hours visit nanaimomuseum.caPhotos with Santa: until Dec 24 at Country Club Centre. Well behaved pets welcomed for photos with Santa on Tue and Wed evenings 6 - 7:30 pm with profits to SPCA. FMI/visiting hours countryclubcentre.comFestival of Trees: Nanaimo North Town Centre’s first annual event in support of BC Children’s Hospital. Until Jan 4. FMI nanaimonorth.comPhotos with Santa: until Dec 24 at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Pet Photo Contest until Dec 18. FMI nanaimonorth.comPhotos with Santa: until Dec 24 at Woodgrove Centre. FMI/visiting hours visit woodgrovecentre.comLive Theatre: ‘Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol’ shows daily excepting Mondays until Dec 22 at Chemainus Theatre Festival. FMI chemainustheatrefestival.ca

EVERY MONDAYAcoustic Night: 4 different acoustic acts each week at the Queens. 7 pm - 11 pm. $5. FMI 250.754.6751Youth Drop-In: the ultimate hang out for youth 12 - 17 years! Supervised space with regular gymnasium activities and more. Mondays at Nanaimo District Secondary School (7 - 9). Free! FMI 250.756.5200

EVERY TUESDAYLive Music: ‘Country Night’ at The Queens with Al Metcalf and Jayden Holman No cover. FMI 250.754.6751

Live Music: The Landlubber 2220 Bowen Rd. Blues Jam on Tuesday night hosted by Doug Thring 8 pm. FMI 250.758.9400

Background photo by Shawn Evans

Live Music: Friday night acoustic series at the Quarterway Pub on Bowen Rd., 9 pm - midnight. No cover. FMI 250.618.4654Live Music: all the way from Ireland, “Daragh Fitzgerald” at Fibber Magees, 7:30 pm. FMI 250.591.0650Live Music: local musicians at ACMe Food Co 7 - 10 pm No cover FMI www.acmefoodco.ca

EVERY SATURDAYLive Music: The Queen’s 250.754.6751Live Music: a different dance band every week at the Wellington Hotel. Free FMI 250.758-5513 Moksha Yoga Karma Class: drop-in to Moksha Yoga - Rutherford Studio and practice for a donation to support local or international charities, 7 pm. Sign up online at www.mokshayogananaimo.com. FMI 250.756.4647Latin Dance Party: every Saturday at the Globe Hotel. Start time 8 pm. FMI 250.753.8487Karaoke: Harewood Arms Pub 9 pm - 1 am. FMI 250.754.2566Open Mic: at Landlubber Pub the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month, 2 - 6 pm. FMI 250.758.9400Live Music: Marty Steele delivers blues, jazz and rock at New York Style Pizza and Pasta 6 - 8 pm. FMI 250.754.0111Board Games Afternoon: drop by Harbourfront Branch Library 1 - 4 pm with friends/family and enjoy an afternoon of Scrabble, Monopoly, Quelf, the Settlers of Catan and more! FMI 250.753.1154 ext. 238

EVERY SUNDAY The Millstone Winery live music at 3PM. Sample some vino with your live music. Wood fire pizza oven.Pipers Pub Every Sunday Mikaila Tombe sings to you with dinner from 6-7:30. 4700 Hammond Bay Rd 250.751.2770 Fringe Flicks are screened at Avalon Cinema on Sundays at 1, 4 & 7pm, Season tickets are $101 for 10 films, and single tickets are $12, available at the door for one hour prior to showtimes, and in advance by phone 250-754-7587 and www.theatreone.orgBirding Walk: hosted by The Backyard WildBird and Nature Store. No charge. 9 am. FMI 250.390.3669Live Music: ‘Blues Jam’ every Sunday at the Queens 4 - 8 pm. $5 cover, jammers free. 250.754.6751Free Lions Skate: 12:00pm, Frank Crane Arena, Everyone welcome free weekly skate Frank Crane Arena by the Nanaimo Lions Sundays 12 - 1:30 pm through Dec 21. Incl admission, skate / helmet rental, Free. Includes admission, skate and helmet rentals, [email protected], 250.756.5200

Children. Culture. Community.

kwumut.orgTOLL FREE 1.800.613.1777

Our Children, Our Community. Become a Foster Parent! for more infomation contact us or visit the caregivers section on our website.

Christmas Pantomime: Ladysmith Little Theatre proudly presents `Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves` Dec 19 - 23 and Dec 26 - 31. FMI/tix ladysmiththeatre.ca or 250.924.0658

29 DEC MONWinter Wonderland: at Frank Crane Arena. 10 - 11:30 am (parent and tot) 11:45 am - 4:45 pm and 7:45 - 9:30 pm. Admission $1 with all skate and helmet rentals free. FMI 250.756.5200

Christmas Pantomime: Nanaimo Theatre Group proudly presents “Pirates of the Panto’ at Bailey Studio Dec 19 - 31. FMI/tix nanaimotheatregroup.com or 250.758.7224

Christmas Pantomime: LLadysmith Little Theatre proudly presents `Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves` Dec 19 - 23 and Dec 26 - 31. FMI/tix ladysmiththeatre.ca or 250.924.0658

30 DEC TUEWinter Wonderland: at Frank Crane Arena. 10 - 11:30 am (family) 11:45 am - 4:45 pm and 7:45 - 9:30 pm. Admission $1 with all skate and helmet rentals free. FMI 250.756.5200

Christmas Pantomime: Nanaimo Theatre Group proudly presents “Pirates of the Panto’ at Bailey Studio Dec 19 - 31. FMI/tix nanaimotheatregroup.com or 250.758.7224

Christmas Pantomime: Ladysmith Little Theatre proudly presents `Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves` Dec 19 - 23 and Dec 26 - 31. FMI/tix ladysmiththeatre.ca or 250.924.0658

Nanaimo Hockey: cheer on the Nanaimo Buccaneers as they take on Peninsula at the Nanaimo Ice Centre, game time 7:15 pm. FMI/tix buccaneers.vijhl.com or 250.616.1404

31 DEC WEDNanaimo’s Family New Year’s Eve Party: ‘Finale’ at Beban Park Social Centre includes entertainment, swimming, skating, crafts and food vendors from 5 - 10 pm. $10/indiv, $32/family of 5, 2 and under free. FMI 250.756.5200Christmas Pantomime: Nanaimo Theatre Group proudly presents “Pirates of the Panto’ at Bailey Studio. Show starts at 9 pm with food and drinks. FMI/tix nanaimotheatregroup.com or 250.758.7224 Christmas Pantomime: Ladysmith Little Theatre proudly presents `Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves` Dec 19 - 23 and Dec 26 - 31. FMI/tix ladysmiththeatre.ca or 250.924.0658Live Comedy: all evening at ACMe Food Co. No cover, reservations recommended at 250.753.0042Live Music: rock away 2014 with ‘Big Bang Baby’ at Harewood Arms Pub. FMI 250.754.2433

01 JAN THU - NEW YEARS DAY

02 JAN FRIFestival of Trees: Nanaimo North Town Centre’s first annual event in support of BC Children’s Hospital. Until Jan 4. FMI nanaimonorth.com

27

#187 Dec‘14

Find 10 Differences Answers in this

magazine.©1984-2014 Whats On Digest

Cartoon by Melony Turner

KIRSTEN J. MADSENPERSONAL INJURY, ICBC CLAIMS, FAMILY LAW, MEDIATOR & TRIAL LAWYER

MADSEN LAW at PARK PLACE#100 - 2124 Bowen RoadNanaimo, BC V9S 1H7

Nanaimo 250 758 7758Toll free 1 877 475 7758Fax 250 758 7756Email [email protected]

www.parkplacelaw.ca

28

It sounds like a fantastic deal only having to pay 3% of the balance; how cool is that? You get to buy something and only have to pay for 3% of it this month; that makes it so much more affordable, right?! It all seems too good to be true so let's take a look at a couple of scenarios and see if it is:

You bought a $4000 flat screen TV on your bank credit card at 19.9% and faithfully made your monthly 3% minimum payments. After 43 months you would have made just over $4000 in payments – the TV would be outdated BUT you would still owe over $2,200! Ten years lat-er, in 2027, you would have paid for your TV a second time and STILL OWE over $400. Fast forward to 2046 – you are retired and so, fi-nally, is the debt for that darn TV!

What if instead of the bank credit card you decided to use the store credit card with the 29.9% interest rate to buy the same TV? In a mere 3 years you'd have made over $4000 in payments for your TV and you wouldn't even have paid off $700 of the debt. Three years and 9 months later your TV's been paid for twice and you haven't even paid down half of the debt. Around the 12 year mark you pay for your TV a third time! Somewhere in the distant future your grandchild pays off your debt – the TV has been paid for almost six times.

No one buys just one item on their credit card, they use them regularly so the cost of that one

item is lost in the mix and they do not real-ize how long or how much they have paid for it. Many people make just minimum only pay-ments not realizing the true cost of credit.

SUE'S TW0

CENT$ By Sue Grubac

THE TRUE COST OF CREDITThe interest rates for a bank credit card usually sit at about 20% while department store cards run closer to 30%. The minimum required monthly payment on most credit cards is 3%.

Ten years later, in 2027, you would have paid for your TV a second time

and STILL OWE over $400

187 1) Fence 2) Dog House door 3) Window 4) Left Cloud 5) Dog’s Tail 6) Dogs Mouth 7) Roof 8) Bag 9) Bag Stick 10) Bird

BreakfastTania's Restaurant (7AM - 3PM Daily) 4286 Departure Bay Rd 250.756.4405

(behind Country Club Mall)

Café / Lunch SpotPowerhouse Living Foods 6560 Metral Dr 250.933.3733 200 Commercial St 250.591.7873

Nellie's Dutch Deli #500-2980 Island hwy 250.729.7044

Bodhis Bakery 5299 Rutherford Rd 250.585.6015

Perkins Coffee Company 234 Commercial St 250.753.2582

Mon Petit Choux 101-120 Commercial 250.753.6002

Smokin’ Georges BBQ 5 – 4131 Mostar Rd 250.585.2258

Serious Coffee Beaufort 1588 Boundary Cr 250.716.8959

Serious Coffee Co-Op Hammond Bay 4750 Hammond Bay Rd 250.758.4237

Serious Coffee Hammond Bay Centre 6357 Hammond Bay Rd 250.390.0868

Serious Coffee Vancouver Island Conference Centre 60 Commercial St 250.591.1065

Serious Coffee South Parkway 1275 Island Hwy South

Pizza Little Ceasars

3 – 1708 Bowen Rd. 250.716.3310 2 – 6338 Metral Dr. 250.390.9000

Milano's Ristorante 300-6551 Aulds Rd 250.390.5060

North American Dairy Queen & Orange Julius

6888 Island Hwy N 250.390.1595 (Dickinson Crossing)

Lees Famous Recipe Chicken 250 Fifth St 250.754.4424

International & Pacific RimHuong Lan - Vietnamese "What the pho?"19-1925 Bowen Rd 250.756.7943

Dover Chinese Food 103-6330 Dover Rd. 250.390.9111

Nori Japanese Restaurant 203-6750 Isl,. Hwy. N 250.751.3377

Blue Ginger 1-5769 Turner 250.751.8238

Downtown NanaimoPowerhouse Living Foods 200 Commercial St 250.591.7873

Acme Food Co 14 Commercial St 250.753.0042

Modern Cafe 221 Commercial 250.754.5022

Minnoz Steak & Seafood Coast Bastion Hotel 250.753.6601

Family DiningMontana's Cookhouse4715 Rutherford Rd 250.758.2388

ABC Country Restaurant 6671 Mary Ellen Nanaimo 250-390-4064

White Spot North 6561 Island Hwy. 250.390.2941

White Spot Terminal 130 Terminal Ave N 250.754.2241

Nanaimo's

TOP EATSLOCAL

FAVOURITESCheck your favourites.

Find new restaurants to visit!

1

2

3

4

5TR

IVIA

A

NW

SER

S Fish

Oliver Hardy

Blood

Potato

Hamlin

and happy holidays

Your $10 holiday gift is here!Celebrate the season in good taste! Purchase $50 worth of White Spot Gift Cards and receive two $5 White Spot bonus Gift Certificates valid for the New Year*. It’s our gift to you! Visit us in restaurant today or purchase online at whitespot.ca and have them mailed to you.

whitespot.ca

*While quantities last. Two Bonus $5 White Spot Gift Certificates valid from January 2nd to March 31st, 2015.

and happy holidays

Your $10 holiday gift is here!Celebrate the season in good taste! Purchase $50 worth of White Spot Gift Cards and receive two $5 White Spot bonus Gift Certificates valid for the New Year*. It’s our gift to you! Visit us in restaurant today or purchase online at whitespot.ca and have them mailed to you.

whitespot.ca

*While quantities last. Two Bonus $5 White Spot Gift Certificates valid from January 2nd to March 31st, 2015.

ENJOY $5 OFFyour bill of $25 or more.

whitespot.ca

Valid from now until Jan 31st, 2015. Valid for dine-in only. Minimum purchase of $25. Maximum discount $5. Valid for food and beverage purchase only.Not to be combined with any other promotional offer. No cash value. Limit one coupon per visit. Valid only at Nanaimo White Spot Locations.

NORTH NANAIMO WHITE SPOT6561 Island Hwy250-390-2941

SOUTH NANAIMO WHITE SPOT130 Terminal Ave250-754-2241

and famous burgers

World famous burgers and much more.Legendary burgers, milkshakes & signature fries are among our favourites at White Spot. Nothing complements our award-winning burgers like a hand-scooped shake or our Nat Bailey beers crafted by Granville Island Brewing. There’s always something for everyone at White Spot.

ENJOY $5 OFFyour bill of $25 or more.

whitespot.ca

Valid from now until Sept 30, 2014. Valid for dine-in only. Minimum purchase of $25. Maximum discount $5.Not to be combined with any other promotional offer. No cash value. Limit one coupon per visit. Valid only at Nanaimo White Spot Locations.

NORTH NANAIMO WHITE SPOT6561 Island Hwy250-390-2941

SOUTH NANAIMO WHITE SPOT130 Terminal Ave250-754-2241

and famous burgers

World famous burgers and much more.Legendary burgers, milkshakes & signature fries are among our favourites at White Spot. Nothing complements our award-winning burgers like a hand-scooped shake or our Nat Bailey beers crafted by Granville Island Brewing. There’s always something for everyone at White Spot.

and happy holidays

Your $10 holiday gift is here!Celebrate the season in good taste! Purchase $50 worth of White Spot Gift Cards and receive two $5 White Spot bonus Gift Certificates valid for the New Year*. It’s our gift to you! Visit us in restaurant today or purchase online at whitespot.ca and have them mailed to you.

whitespot.ca

*While quantities last. Two Bonus $5 White Spot Gift Certificates valid from January 2nd to March 31st, 2015.

and happy holidays

Your $10 holiday gift is here!Celebrate the season in good taste! Purchase $50 worth of White Spot Gift Cards and receive two $5 White Spot bonus Gift Certificates valid for the New Year*. It’s our gift to you! Visit us in restaurant today or purchase online at whitespot.ca and have them mailed to you.

whitespot.ca

*While quantities last. Two Bonus $5 White Spot Gift Certificates valid from January 2nd to March 31st, 2015.

and happy holidays

Your $10 holiday gift is here!Celebrate the season in good taste! Purchase $50 worth of White Spot Gift Cards and receive two $5 White Spot bonus Gift Certificates valid for the New Year*. It’s our gift to you! Visit us in restaurant today or purchase online at whitespot.ca and have them mailed to you.

whitespot.ca

*While quantities last. Two Bonus $5 White Spot Gift Certificates valid from January 2nd to March 31st, 2015.

new street™

AT-A-GLANCE CATALOG

The Right Products at the Right Price Delivered Right on Time.

new street™

AT-A-GLANCE CATALOG

The Right Products at the Right Price Delivered Right on Time.

new street™

AT-A-GLANCE CATALOG

The Right Products at the Right Price Delivered Right on Time.

new street™

AT-A-GLANCE CATALOG

The Right Products at the Right Price Delivered Right on Time.

new street™

AT-A-GLANCE CATALOG

The Right Products at the Right Price Delivered Right on Time.

new street™

AT-A-GLANCE CATALOG

The Right Products at the Right Price Delivered Right on Time.

NANAIMO at 2520 BOWEN ROAD250.758.0138 • mclarenlighting.com

Happy Holidays from al l of us at Mclaren Lighting

LED bulbs & Lighting - Incredible Selection Knowledgeable and Professional Staff