High rollers Photo by HSIMS Roulette was one of the popular gambling attractions at the annual Monte Carlo Charity Gala held the evening of Nov. 28 at the Delta Hotel Ballroom. Organized by first and second-year medical students, the annual event is always a big draw. Participants dress in their finest for a fun-filled evening of live local entertainment, a casino, a dessert café and a charity auction. Over the past 25 years Monte Carlo has raised well over a quarter of a million dollars for charities in the province. This year's event raised about $35,000. The charities selected this year are: Xavier House, Corner Brook; the Canadian Paraplegic Association, Newfoundland and Labrador Division; the Calypso Foundation, Lewisporte; the Canadian Council for the Blind, Helen Keller Club, Grand Falls-Windsor; the Canadian Mental Health Association, Newfoundland and Labrador Foundation; and the St. Anthony Boys and Girls Club.

Thursday, Dec. 11
MUNPA tea — The MUN Pensioners Association invites all members and companions to the Pensioner’s Strictly Social Tea and Revel from 2-4:30 p.m. in the University Club, 5th Floor Arts Annex. Refreshments will be provided but donations of your favourite festive pastries will be welcome.
 
Children’s holiday reading — Memorial alumni are invited to bring their children or grandchildren to a special children’s holiday book reading from 6-8 p.m. at Alumni House, 20 Lambe’s Lane. This free event is sponsored by the St. John’s alumni chapter and Bennington Gate. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Authors Kevin Major (B.Sc.’73) and Carmelita McGrath (BA ’80, B.Ed.’81) will be on hand for this special evening

Saturday, Dec. 13
Une soirée dans la Francophonie — Food, entertainment, and conversation with a French flair from 7-10 p.m. Join other students and instructors from Lifelong Learning’s French language courses for a great night out and a great chance to practice your new skills in a fun, relaxed setting. You’ll start with an informal meet and greet, with wine and cheese to set the scene. For more information or to register please call 737-7979 or visit www.mun.ca/lifelonglearning.

Monday, Dec. 15
PhD oral defence — PhD oral defence of Lu Xiao, titled, Implementation Analysis of Block Cipher Components and Structures, at 10 a.m. in room ER-4002, Alexander Murray Bldg. (Earth Sciences).

Wednesday, Dec. 17
Examinations end, fall semester

Friday, Dec. 19
PhD oral defence — PhD oral defence of Sabina Wilhelm, thesis title, Behavioural and Physiological Responses of Breeding Common Murres (Uria aalge): Exploring Inter-annual Variability Within Individuals, 2:30 p.m. in room ER-4002, Alexander Murray (Earth Sciences).

Thursday, Jan. 8
Lectures begin, winter semester
Deadline for fees payment, Winter Semester