villagevibe April 2011
News and views from the heart of Fernwood
Fernwoodians: Paint your poles! Pole painting proliferates in May
Pole Painting 101 Check with your neighbours (you don’t want to step on any toes...)
›› Josh-ooh-ahh Schmidt
W
hat is it that makes a pole great? Is it the fact that it supports the cables that delivers energy to our homes? To Beth Threlfall, the poles are not mere infrastructure, but an opportunity for anyone to express their artistic creativity. If you walk down Fernwood Road you’ll see all manner of poles turned into cylindrical canvases, painted with a myriad of designs featuring rocket ships, sunflowers, stars, totems, and animals. And this is just the start! But before we look to the future, let us look at the past... Beth painted her first pole in 2008 after noticing how bare they looked. As an artist living within the artistic community that Fernwood is, she thought they should reflect its denizens. Inspired by “The Great Neighbourhood Book”, she decided to paint the pole in front of her house on Fernwood Road. Calling BC Hydro to make sure she was in the clear, Beth found out it wouldn’t interfere with worker safety and that they actually had NO budget to repaint the poles themselves... she would be doing THEM a favour! Soon bright sunflowers graced her new canvas, and the response was incredible. “Cars honked their horns as they drove by, neighbours taking a walk asked to have their own poles done... it was great!” Soon after, in 2009, Beth painted over 20 poles around George James Elementary school in celebration of their 100th anniversary, and then decided to let others know about the concept by getting a table at Fernfest where she encouraged others to do their own! Well, how could we ignore such an awesome spirit of funkadelic creativity? In short, we couldn’t, which is why we are holding the Great Fernwood Pole Painting Project. That’s right... stake your claim on a fresh pole that needs some soul and get ready, because on Saturday May 28th
Create your design and follow Beth’s simple rule: “Go BIG, go BOLD, and keep it simple!” 1. Remove any nails, staples, or other protrusions (needle nose pliers recommended) 2. Cover the ground with a tarp, old newspapers, or other material in case your paint spills or splatters 3. Prime the pole with latex housepaint (Beth recommends black to make colours pop!) 4. Paint it! 5. Clean-up the site 6. Enjoy! ☺
it’s time to get your paint on! Join in on the fun, and paint one of the over 250 poles in Fernwood, and as an added bonus it will act as a great landmark when friends are visiting from out of town. In fact, we at NRG are going to create the “Gateways to Fernwood” at the intersection of Bay Street & Fernwood Road and
Pandora & Fernwood Road. If you have a design in mind, jot it down, and it could be the one heralding people into our hood for years to come! If you want to get involved, learn more about this project, or if you have design ideas, please email: polepainting
Buzz
Buzz
Included with this issue:
The Common Springs to Life page 3
Howie’s Farewell page 7
Neighbourhood Visioning Forum 2011
Some other tidbits to note are that maintenance is required 1–2 times a year, and should be done when there is a stable temperature of 10° Celsius so the paint dries quickly. It takes about two hours from start to finish to paint a blank pole. Stencils are a great to save time and make the activity fun for all ages, and if you use a sponge to put the paint no experience or skill is necessary. Beth even made her sponges from old couch cushions, so get creative!
@fernwoodnrg.ca.
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villagevibe Published by Fernwood Neighbourhood Resource Group Editorial Committee
Lee Herrin Joshua Schmidt
Stacey Curtis Matt Takach
Founding Editor Lisa Helps Contributors
Joshua Schmidt Lee Herrin Shaun Macpherson Jen Steele Zoë Eakle Mila Czemerys Ellie Rubincam Stacey Curtis
Chris Jordan Riitta Jenelle Pasiechnik Margaret Hantiuk Chris Howard Ilijc Albenese Marika Smith Natalie Bishop
Art
Natalie Bishop, Mila Czemerys Production Ellen Rooney Contact us
1313 Gladstone Avenue Victoria, BC V8R 1R9 T 778.410.2497 F 250.381.1509 vibe@fernwoodnrg.ca www.villagevibe.ca To enquire about advertising in the Village Vibe, please contact ads@ fernwoodnrg.ca The views expressed in the Village Vibe do not necessarily reflect the views of Fernwood NRG.
declaration of principles & values ›› We are committed to creating
editorial:
Talking with your neighbours ›› Lee Herrin Talk is cheap. Actions speak louder than words. Show me don’t tell me. There is a strain in our culture which definitely devalues “talk.” But not all talk is created equal. Some conversations go somewhere. In fact, most initiatives of any consequence begin with a good conversation. An old friend once told me “There is no problem we face that can’t be solved by four people of good will sitting down around a table and talking it through.” My experience working in this neighbourhood over the past 13 years has proven that to be true time and again. If you had a chance to attend the Neighbourhood Visioning Forum, you know that the core of the day revolved around “cafe conversations” between four or five people. There were 18 or 20 such conversations going on simultaneously, and there were three rounds where we mixed up the participants to ensure as many people got talking to others as possible. So what is the outcome of all of this? We’ve included a feature in this month’s paper showing some of the results. Collating all of the information we collected will take a little while yet, and there is a lot more to come. If anything you see
excites you, be sure to let us know at vision @fernwoodnrg.ca. Some of the ideas that came up during the day are projects that Fernwood NRG will be excited to work on. And I am certain, that with support of the neighbourhood, we will accomplish many of these projects over the next several years. But Fernwood NRG can only do so much—if there are things you are strongly committed to and want to see happen, then don’t wait around...put up a poster in the Cornerstone Cafe and call a meeting of interested people and get started working on it right away. Let us know too, and we’ll help get the word out in the Village Vibe, through
our website (which is being relaunched very soon), through social media and whatever other channels we can. If we know of others who are already working on that, or who might have an interest, we’ll try to connect you with them too. Fernwood already has a great cafe, and we’ve done a little work in the alley to make a comfortable place for the better weather that is coming. It’s a great place to engage in the very kind of talk that makes a difference. So please sit down with your neighbours and discuss what’s on your mind... you don’t need to wait for the next visioning forum to have a cafe conversation and get started changing the world.
Separating the fertile from the flammable in 10 words or less —
Fernwood
Dead Wood
Spririt Creativity Conversation Re-use Collaboration
Unmotivated Unimaginative Argument Trash Competition
a socially, environmentally,
and economically sustainable neighbourhood;
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institutions and assets;
Inouï ’re just getting started...
We are committed to using
›› Shaun Macpherson
We are committed to ensuring neighbourhood control or ownership of neighbourhood
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our resources prudently and to becoming financially self-reliant;
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We are committed to the creation and support of neighbourhood employment;
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We are committed to engaging the dreams, resources, and talents of our neighbours and to fostering new links between them;
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We are committed to taking action in response to neighbourhood issues, ideas, and initiatives;
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We are committed to governing our organization and serving our neighbourhood democratically with a maximum of openness, inclusivity and kindness;
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We are committed to developing the skills, capacity, self‑worth, and excellence of our neighbours and ourselves;
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We are committed to focusing on the future while preserving our neighbourhood’s heritage and diversity;
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We are committed to creating neighbourhood places that are vibrant, beautiful, healthy, and alive;
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buzz:
and, most of all, We are committed to having fun!
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Oh, the power of a good book. What began as a discussion of a favorite book quickly blossomed into a thriving business partnership. In 2009, designer Amber Kingsnorth had just read “The Boss of You,” a book on business start-up by Vancouver authors Lauren Bacon and Emira Mears. She was inspired to ask fellow designer and VIU graduate Kyla Bidgood to coffee so she could pitch a business partnership. Turns out Kyla had similar designs on the meeting. “At the time we were working for other people,” says Amber, “Kyla sits down and says, ‘I’ve been reading this great book. I thought about you the whole time.’ It was the same book! Turns out we had the same ulterior motive in meeting up.” That meeting led to the creation of Inouï (pronounced “een-wee”) Design Collective. Started in December 2009, their initial success fostered the move into their current location at 2002 Fernwood Road. “I couldn’t imagine being in any other space.” says Kyla, “We love the neighbourhood, we love the community vibe. We wanted to be a part of that.” The move to Fernwood last June generated immediate local interest. Inouï is already busy with contracts in the community, including renovations at the Ma’kola Housing Society office, The Parsonage Café, and the Cornerstone Cafe. “A lot of people in Fernwood want to keep it in Fernwood.” Kyla says, “We’re really lucky to have those people approach us.”
villagevibe April 2011
Amber & Kyla, proud owners. Photo: Jen Steele Photography
Amber and Kyla see Inouï Design Collective, like Fernwood itself, as part of the push to inject new colour into the historic buildings of Victoria. Their vision includes the use of reclaimed objects in their work, examples of which abound in their own office and on their website (inouidesign.ca). “We’ve become known for the little details that we put into spaces,” says Amber, “reusing the little things, because not everything’s trash. There’s this mentality in the
design world that you should just get rid of everything and start over. But that’s not always the best thing to do.” For Inouï, it’s all about working with clients to showcase both the ambience of a particular space and also the company’s brand. “This city has got a great art scene, great shops, amazing restaurants,” says Kyla, “It’d be nice to see design modernize with those things too.”
News and views from the heart of Fernwood
buzz:
Spring Ridge plants seeds of promise ›› Zoë Eakle Along with the scent of cherry and plum blossoms there’s change in the air at local permaculture garden Spring Ridge Common. Located in the heart of Fernwood at the Chambers end of Gladstone Ave. the Common took root in 1999 at the instigation of local permaculturist Geoff Johnson. Before that it was a gravel parking lot. Permaculture is a holistic land use system dedicated to values of sustainability and good stewardship. Those principles and the hands of many volunteers have turned the rocky terrain into new growth. This spring that growth includes a recent shift of the Common’s land lease, now held by Fernwood NRG. That means new funding and a renewed push for local involvement. There is also a focus right now on the aesthetics of the garden including careful selection of new plants and plans for a cob
The Common springs to life with a few helping hands. Photo: Mila Czemerys
bench. Volunteer Linda Chan says, “We’re thinking about long term management models for the Common. Eventually it would be great to have entertainers and public workshops there as well.” There’s more to find here though than a pretty public space. Like the roots stretching under steadily warming soil the themes at Spring Ridge are intertwined and the
potential for learning runs deep. As a therapist I gravitate toward the eco therapy premise that the health of our environment reflects our psychological health. This idea bears fruit in the motivation of the volunteers tending the Commons. For each of them the principles of permaculture offer an important alternative in a mechanized world of dwindling resources. Linda speaks thoughtfully of her learning in the garden, “You don’t have control over things,” she says, “You have to be flexible. It teaches resilience and adaptability.” Volunteer Harmony Barrer speaks passionately of what Spring Ridge means to her saying, “I’ve been raised in a society that separates everything, now I’m trying to weave
www.fernwoodnrg.ca
s
Wo
May 15-June 30
Wanted: Parents who need a (coffee) break There’s a friendly new face in Fernwood, and she’s here to help you new parents cope with your stress. Bringing a background in Anthropology and Social Work to the Fernwood Community Centre, Jesikah Post is a recent addition to the Fernwood NRG team. Yet already we find Jesikah busy, caring for a brainchild of her own: a NRG program offered to the community beginning April 5th called “Help! I have Kids!” Meeting each Tuesday from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., “Help! I have Kids” promises a casual group setting where parents can discuss the ins and outs of parenting while their children play next door with a capable child minder. Every other week, Jesikah will lend her expertise to addressing a particular topic of importance for new parents. “I’m going to start with information about a local babyproofing company,” Jesikah says, promising that in the sessions to follow, issues will include, among others, finding the right daycare for your child. As a mother of a fourteen year-old, the Centre’s Director Denyse Koo has experienced the challenges of parenting firsthand. “Where parents want more education is in day to day concerns,” Denyse states, adding shrewdly, “Children don’t come with a manual.” As such, the “Help! I have Kids!” program is designed as a bridge between the Best Babies and the Cap C programs already offered by the Centre, giving parents the chance to share information on ‘normal development’ and to problemsolve as a group. In the weeks between scheduled topics, the group will meet as an open forum, enabling parents to steer the conversation by bringing particular points of interest
Zoe Eakle is a therapist at Open Sky Counselling.
Writer r o f p rksho
buzz:
›› Ellie Rubincam
themes of ecology and sustainability, individuality and community back together.” A key aspect of the Commons is that its stewards are you and I. Input and hands on involvement are welcome. Check the website for current opportunities sc.conscious-choices.ca. It’s equally important however that people simply enjoy the space, so don’t be afraid to loiter. Harmony has been doing just that lately. These last few nights she’s taken the path home that leads through the Commons, “It’s getting warm enough that I feel like lingering,” she says, “Going there at night is nice, there’s a sense of promise to it.”
to the table. The Centre also offers free food vouchers and/or prenatal vitamins to attendees. It is important to note that the programs offered by the Fernwood Community Centre are not affiliated with the Ministry of Children and Family Development, and as such, are able to offer confidential, nonmandated services to local families. As Denyse insists, “we don’t turn people away.” So is it normal for your child to take off their clothes when they enter the Cornerstone? Hard to say. What is clearer is that questioning, “is my reaction okay?” is normal. Whether it’s the promise of information or free food vouchers that brings you in the door, you may just get the help you didn’t know you needed.
100% online, 4,000 word max Down in my belly, a bowl of alphabet soup. A pen on my table do I, do I, do I...reach. Grab a spoon and dig into me.
Stay up with us. Open until 10 pm Monday to Saturday
Wednesday - Bluegrass Night Friday - Open Mic Night
at the corner of Fernwood and Gladstone
You’re magnificent. Your writing should be, too. Join us online @ www.staceycurtis.org
Call Today For a Free Consult
Zoë Eakle, RPC
Registered Professional Counsellor
Fernwood, B.C.
250 370 0980
www.openskycounselling.com
Fernwood NRG is also currently looking for volunteers to help with childminding during upcoming “Help! I have kids!” sessions. If you are a friendly Fernwood resident with a love for little ones, please contact Jesikah Post at Jesikah@fernwoodnrg.ca to discuss volunteer opportunities and the accompanying Volunteer
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villagevibe page 3
literary arts:
Brother can you spare a line? Poetry on a
Bridge by Riitta. Photo: Mila Czemerys
Next issue’s content: Why Write? Entrants are asked to complete one of the following statements in up to three sentences. “I write because …” or “I write for…”. Please write entries on a scrap of paper and drop them in the “Poetry on a Napkin” box at the Cornerstone Café. Napkin poems will also continue to be accepted for future issues. A Eulogy for Astrid by Chris Jordan. Photo: Mila Czemerys
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villagevibe April 2011
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News and views from the heart of Fernwood
Napkin ››
Stacey Curtis
Looking for something Nice ‘n Spicy tonight? We have over 14 authentic African curries each with its own recipe and portioned spices. So go ahead, put exciting on your table tonight.
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Things That Go Bump in the Hood by Robert Adair Wilson. Photo: Mila Czemerys
Literary Announcement The Village Vibe is pleased to inform its community that local resident and poet Garth Martens has been nominated for the Bronwen Wallace Award for Emerging Writers. The award is sponsored by RBC and the Writer’s Trust of Canada. Martens, along with the two other nominees—one a fellow friend and poet—will be flown to Toronto for the April 5th announcement. Each finalist is awarded $1,000 and the winner receives $5,000. The event will be held at the Royal Conservatory of Music and is open to the public.
“I write for the same reason I struggle with flamenco as a singer and a dancer: poetry is music, shape and motion, a discipline, and like flamenco, there is more than technique, there is the encounter with an exterior world fraught with mystery, trouble and delight.” Martens recently completed his M.F.A in poetry from the University of Victoria and can often be found seated with intent at the Cornerstone, any number of books on his table, jotting down ideas, words, or overheard dialogue. “Read, read, read,” Martens says. “It puts fuel in the engine.” A writer like no other, Martens marries www.fernwoodnrg.ca
natural poetic inspirations with a grounded and realistic examination of his subjects, gifting life to the ordinary. When asked why he writes, Martens had the following to say: “I write for the same reason I struggle with flamenco as a singer and a dancer: poetry is music, shape and motion, a discipline, and like flamenco, there is more than technique, there is the encounter with an exterior world fraught with mystery, trouble and delight. I write because poetry is, for me, an arena for both a rigoured and a spiritual life.”
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CELEBRATE CYCLING IN VICTORIA!
Sunday, May 22, 10am - 3pm
William Stevenson Park and Fernwood Community Center
What is Bikefest? MEC Bikefest is an all-ages community celebration of cycling in Victoria. Join us for a day of seminars and clinics, demos, kids activities, and more: • • • • • •
Coffee, Tea & Honey #5-1046 Mason Street (Just off Cook Street) 250-384-0905
NEW! Clean up your garage - Swap, buy, and sell bikes, parts and accessories Group rides, bike tests and kids rodeo Learn cycling and bike maintenance skills Charity bike drop-off in support of Bicycles for Humanity Door prizes, cycling competitions and more! MEC Marketplace
For TO more details, visit “I GET 10K “I GET 10K TO THE BANANA.” mec.ca/ bikefest THE BANANA.”
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April 2011
villagevibe page 5
artist’s aside:
Musings on artistic collaboration ›› Jenelle Pasiechnik The Victoria High School student art exhibition, Reflections, occurring at the Collective Works Gallery from April 1st - 7th, is cause for reflection on the power of community and collaboration. The atmosphere of Jane Baigent’s photography class at Victoria High School took me by surprise, when Mila Czemerys and I went in to interview the students about their upcoming exhibition. We observed the students working to finish their final photographic projects, and choose pieces they would like to include for display. The exhibit includes art and pho-
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tographic projects created by grade twelve students, judged and approved by a jury. Throughout the process students had the opportunity to collaborate with professional artists in hanging their works and organizing the exhibition layout. The opportunity to collaborate with professionals, for budding young artists, is a great privilege seldom had by many. The exposure and confidence building which comes from the exhibition of an artist’s work is also a unique experience. Jane Baigent, a practicing artist and their teacher, has equipped the students with the tools and professionalism that will allow them to integrate smoothly into other artistic communities, and has facilitated a yearly exhibition for graduating grade twelves’ for the last several years. The experience fosters a better understanding of the working process of a professional artist, and valuable connections within the community for a younger generation with artistic aspirations. Observing student behavior and professional conduct led me to a greater understanding of just how important opportunities within the school system are, and how each teacher brings their own very valuable set of experiences which enriches that of the student’s. The tone of the classroom was that of a busy artists’ workshop where students worked in small groups; helping each other to time solutions which expose the film
Vic High students make careful selections. From Left to Right; Jane Baigent, Julian Pfeiffer, Courtney McLean. Photo: Mila Czemerys
while conversing casually, signaling their entrance and exit of the dark room by saying, “coming in,” or “coming out” to be conscious of light sensitive processes, and examining each other’s negatives as they worked. The air in the room was one of natural ease and comfort as the students worked busily amongst each other. Not only have they had to learn the technical processes which go into producing a beautiful photograph, but they have become keenly aware of having to share space and materials with each other as they all try to
finish their projects on time. The pressure of preparing art works for a show is accompanied by considerations of time, organization, and economics. Due to budget and funding cuts that have been occurring province wide the gallery was unable to support the entire cost of the exhibition, so the students got together and organized the sale of their own photographs and baked goods to help with the gallery costs. The work which has gone on in the photography class at Victoria High School goes beyond the realm of high school credit and into that of lasting life skill. The students lay their photographs on display for the photographer and I to glance at, and the variation in perspective and mood conveyed by each student was only a taste of the passionate talent possessed by the young artists, and the quality of the work they produce. The students had the opportunity to choose their own major themes and explore them through different technical means, such as the use of contrast. The pairing of responsibility and freedom has allowed the students artistic license as well as the opportunity to grow as young adults. The exhibit is more than just a worthwhile cultural experience; it’s an opportunity for the community to come together in support of members who are students today, and our artists of tomorrow.
garden gleanings:
The natural garden ›› Margaret Hantiuk
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villagevibe April 2011
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In February, at our annual gardening event, ‘Seedy Saturday’, I attended the ‘nature and the home garden’ workshop with local naturalist, Darren Copley. He is a passionate advocate for wildlife, and was the park naturalist for Goldstream park. There are several key strategies to attract and keep wildlife in our home gardens. First is to stay away from chemicals such as herbicides and pesticides. Even using too much synthetic fertilizer will be a deterrent, as the natural balance of healthy soil microbiology will be destroyed. Just use lots of compost, leaf mold and natural amendments such as seasoil, dolomitic lime and organic fertilizers. (Try Integrity Sales, Keating X RD). Another is to let your yard get a bit messy. This provides a habitat for bugs, which feed birds, and sets up the food chain and ecosystem. Letting the autumn leaf drop stay on beds, leaving the stalks on dying perennials, a stump or two left to decay naturally—all of these practices mimic nature, provide food and habitat, and invite diversity of wildlife. All wildlife needs water. Having a few containers of water will attract birds, bugs and butterflies. The healthier your ecosystem, the more birds you will attract, and many eat mosquitoes. If you are worried about breeding mosquitoes, you can change the water every few days. A birdbath is wonderfully entertaining – place it where you can enjoy watching them. It should be shallow and placed where cats
cannot ambush them! Birdfeeders attract birds. Make sure that the one you use is squirrel, rat and raccoon proof. Using hulled black sunflower seeds (which they love) means less debris under the birdfeeder. Some feeders have a tray underneath, to catch the debris, and thus do not attract rodents. Place your birdfeeder where cats cannot attack the feeding birds, and where you can enjoy watching them. Hummingbird feeders are popular. Use a sugar-to-water ratio of 1 to 4 only, with no colouring agent or honey, boiling it first, and then letting it cool. Replace it weekly. Of course the best thing is to plant an array of native plants and others that attract wildlife so that they can feed themselves! Many nurseries have native plants now, and the CRD provides mini-courses at Swan Lake nature house (they have an annual native plant sale) Generally, Darren advised gardeners to create as much habitat as possible, in a tiered or layered vertical structure: more trees, shrubs and hedgerows. He said that the sound of running or dripping water attracts wildlife (and deters mosquitoes). There are inexpensive pumps that can be placed in small ponds or even a large water container. A garden that attracts wildlife is a winwin-win: for us, for wildlife, and for the garden itself, which transforms into an ecosystem that is healthy and sustainable. It is easier to maintain, more enjoyable, and every bit of green space counts in the battle to save wildlife.
News and views from the heart of Fernwood
mark your calendars:
Organic Plant Sale ›› Marika Smith Join us for our fabulous Organic Plant Sale coming up on Saturday May 14th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.! As the weather warms up, eager gardeners are hearing the soft call of the soil, craving the dirt under their fingernails, yearning to sow seeds, and keen to plant a variety of seedlings that over the summer and fall will yield beautiful flowers and delectable food. So why not start your garden right this spring with local organic seeds and seedlings? Not only are these organic seeds and plant grown with ecological health in mind, but they are often an heirloom or rare variety that grows
beautifully in our temperate climate. As well as a great selection of organic veggie starts, ornamental, herbal, and medicinal plants there will also be free mini workshops throughout the event, and an opportunity to view the beautiful newly constructed rain garden. Knowledgeable staff, volunteers, and local growers will be available to answer questions on organic gardening and composting while you enjoy live music, coffee, and treats! So join us on May 14th to celebrate composting, sustainable living, and organic gardening in our community!
buzz:
Café manager bids Fernwood farewell
Marika Smith is the Executive Director at The Greater Victoria Compost Education Centre.
F E R N W O O D N R G S P R I N G 20 11 P R O G R A M S MONDAY Awesome Mommies (DI) Ongoing 11:00am – 12:30pm Kid’s Yoga (Reg) Apr 4th – May 2nd 3:45pm – 4:45pm Introductory Yoga (Reg) Apr 4th – May 2nd 6:00pm – 7:00pm Life Ring (DI) Ongoing 6:45pm – 8:00pm Nuu Chah Nulth Drumming (DI) Ongoing 7:30pm – 10:00pm
☺
TUESDAY
Fernwood will miss you Howie.
Parent and Tot Play Group (DI) Ongoing 9:30am – 11:30pm Baby Sings (Reg) Apr 26th – May 24th 9:30am – 10:00am Tot Sings (Reg) April 26th – May 24th 10:00am – 10:30am Family Music Experience (Reg) Apr 26th – May 24th 10:30am – 11:15am Help I Have Kids Parenting Information Group (DI) Ongoing 12:30pm – 2:30pm Iyengar Yoga (DI/Reg) Mar 29th – Apr 26th 5:00pm – 6:30pm Floor Hockey (DI) 7:00pm – 9:45 pm Okinawan Karate (Reg) Apr 5th – May 31st 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Photo: Ilijc Albenese
WEDNESDAY Parent and Babe Play Group (DI) Ongoing 9:30am – 11:30pm Best Babies (Reg) Ongoing 12:00pm – 3:00pm Hand Drumming-Beginner (Reg) Mar 30th – May 4th 7:00pm – 8:15pm Hand Drumming-Intermediate (Reg) Mar 23rd – Apr 27th 8:30pm – 9:45pm Soccer (Closed Group) Apr 6th – Apr 20th 7:30pm – 9:00pm Good Food Box Pickup, every third Wednesday, 1:00pm – 5:30pm
THURSDAY Parent and Tot Playgroup (DI) Ongoing 9:30am – 11:30pm Mother Goose (Reg) Mar 10th – Apr 28th 9:30am – 10:30am Best Babies (Reg) Ongoing 12:00pm – 3:00pm Crafty Kids Cridge Centre (Closed Group) Mar 31st – May 26th 3:30pm – 5:00pm Laughter Yoga (DI/Reg) Apr 7th – May 26th 7:00pm – 8:00pm Okinawan Karate (Reg) Apr 7th – May 26th 7:00pm – 9:00pm Victoria Sport & Social Club (Closed Group) Apr 7th – May 26th 7:30pm – 10:30pm
FRIDAY Autumn Glow Seniors Group (DI) Ongoing 12:00pm – 3:30pm Youth Drop In (DI) Ongoing 6:00pm – 9:00pm
SUNDAY Swap & Shop April 3rd – Apr 17th 9:00 – 2:00 pm K9 Freestyle Dance (Reg) Apr 3rd – May 29th 7:00pm – 9:00pm (Reg) Registration Required
(DI) Drop In
No classes will be held on April 22nd (Good Friday), April 24th (Easter Sunday), April 25th (Easter Monday), or May 23rd (Victoria Day)
SPECIAL EVENTS Energy Expo May 14th & 15th Organic Plant Sale May 14th MEC BikeFest May 22nd
For More Information Contact: Fernwood NRG 1240 Gladstone Avenue Victoria, BC V8T 1G6 (250) 381-1552 info@fernwoodnrg.ca www.fernwoodnrg.ca Room rental opportunities also available.
›› Chris “Howie” Howard I hear people saying upon retuning to Fernwood after being away, “I didn’t realize how amazing this place is until I went elsewhere.” I myself have traveled all over Canada and have found this particular place to have a kind of magic that is very rare indeed. I have lived in the ‘Hood on and off for 15 years with a wide assortment of artistic kooks and skateboard punks. We have all grown up a bit and it’s been fun and interesting to watch Fernwood grow up with us. We’ve taken care of one another, we’ve weeded out the bad seeds, and we’ve welcomed the new-comers. This is a truly diverse and connected community. It is an active community which is genuinely interested in and involved with the betterment of our little society. I have found one other place in my travels that has a similar vibe and an equally creative and connected community; I’m leaving this utopia for that one. Upon first visiting Whitehorse, Yukon in 1996, I felt welcomed and included in such a way as to make it hard for me to leave. I have returned to visit over the years and each time felt more and more like I could make my home there. This last visit in late sum-
mer 2010 was the clincher. I just have to go. It’s also time in my life to force a bit of change. I believe that in order to grow, we must shake things up sometimes. The Cornerstone has been so much to me. I have never felt like I belonged at a job as much as I have here. The people I have spent my days with have made work feel like play and friends and colleagues feel like family. I have never been in a café that felt so much like a home as this one, as an employee or a customer, and feel so proud to have been a part of this. I have a lot of people to thank, but I’ll leave out all but one in print format. Thank-you, Terry Wilson. Your constant enthusiasm for life has inspired as many people as have met you. You will always remain in my mind and heart as the patron Saint of Fernwood. The bubbles you craft are like mini-miracles; changing the way that we see the world for a moment, and returning us all to that time in our lives when wonder existed everywhere. Give this man a hug. You both deserve it. Hood Love is Good Love, Howie P.S. The local non-profit skateboard group, Boarders without Borders is heading to South America in early May to build a half pipe ramp and host a skatecamp in rural Columbia. They are calling for donations to bring down there for children and youth skaters. Please drop off at the Cornerstone Cafe any old and unused: children’s shoes, pads, helmets, and of course skate gear (decks, trucks, wheels, tools). Before May 8th please.
Committed to Supporting Community Associations Community Office
1084 Fort Street Victoria P: (250) 952-4211 F: (250) 952-4214 carole.james.mla@leg.bc.ca www.opposition.bc.ca
Carole James, MLA Victoria • Beacon Hill
MASSAGE THERAPY ACUPUNCTURE
PRIVATE PILATES
ONLINE BOOKING AVAILABLE! 1358 GLADSTONE AVE / 250 590 6612 / SOMAVICTORIA.CA
www.fernwoodnrg.ca
April 2011
villagevibe page 7
Scene in Fernwood : A Totem for Howie
Art by Natalie Bishop