This magnificent seven and a half foot, douglas frosted Christmas tree (PVC) tree comes pre-lit with 700 clear indoor lights on its 2,514 branches tipped with snow, red berries and pinecones, as well as a durable metal stand. Suggested retail price $369.99. Top your tree with Canadian Tire’s bronze and gold embossed star. This classic piece retails for $16.99. www.canadiantire.ca

Jordan Craig was introduced to photography when a family friend, an accomplished photographer, offered to build a darkroom at his family’s home.

Jimmy Bowskill is the real deal. At the age of 11, Bowskill was discovered by the late Canadian blues icon Jeff Healey (only a year after Jimmy picked up his first guitar).

From July 25 to August 9, the Ottawa Chamber Music Society will present the 15th anniversary edition of its world-renowned International Chamber Music Festival. Recognized as one of Canada’s most important cultural events, Chamberfest ’08 will feature over 120 concerts and more than 250 internationally acclaimed musicians.

For history buffs, nature lovers, bird watchers, and hiking enthusiasts, Katharine Fletcher’s Historical Walks continues to be the unique guide to the human and natural history of Gatineau Park.

Ottawa native, Tom Colombi is the only Canadian selected for the 12 rider-team of the LifeSouth Community Blood Center’s Five Points of Life Ride.

Singer/songwriter Carrie Catherine is touring Canada in promotion of her third album Green Eyed Soul. Known for her sassy song writing and poetic lyrics, Carrie Catherine has quickly become Saskatchewan’s best musical export since Grammy winner and Canadian musical icon Joni Mitchell.