October 2023 Village Vibe

A community-designed mural blooms

›› Emily Mahbobi

Nestled within the traditional territories of the LekwungenSpeaking People, known today as the Esquimalt & Songhees Nations, the Fernwood Community Centre is a vital hub for the neighbourhood. As a cherished part of Fernwood Neighbourhood Resource Group (Fernwood NRG), the centre extends a warm embrace to community members of all ages, offering daycare services for infants, toddlers, and children up to out-of-school care age. It’s within this vibrant and nurturing community that an inspiring mural project took root.

The mural project’s primary goal was to breathe new life into the east-facing 3-5 play area wall, and it was executed with a distinctive twist: indigenous plants and animals would take centre-stage, and the project would actively involve the centre’s youngest members. This innovative endeavour was made possible through the dedicated efforts of numerous community members and the guidance of professional mural artist Jesse Campbell.

Jesse Campbell, with Métis, Salteaux, and Cree ancestry on his mother’s side, and mixed European heritage on his father’s side, has been a professional mural artist since 2010. His full-time commitment to the arts as an artist and arts facilitator since 2018 has been a driving force in the community. Jesse’s practice often centres around public art installations, where he collaborates with First Nations communities as an arts advisor and facilitator.

The project’s initial spark came from the My Great Neighbourhood Grant Program by the City of Victoria, a program aimed at invigorating public spaces, fostering a profound sense of community, and leaving a lasting positive legacy in our neighbourhoods. Shannon Jamison led the charge in securing this invaluable grant, and it was Catherine Orr who, with a discerning eye, sought out Jesse Campbell for the mural’s artistic embodiment.

What makes this mural truly special is

the involvement of the centre’s children in the 3-5 daycare program. These young minds were not merely passive spectators; they were active participants in shaping the mural’s narrative. Invited to share their ideas and sketches of their favourite natural characters from the neighbourhood, the children’s enthusiasm was palpable. While the opportunity was extended to all, it was the daycare kids who wholeheartedly embraced the project.

Guided by the centre’s 3-5 Coordinator, Shazana Azmee, the children embarked on exploratory journeys through the neighbourhood. They visited Spring Ridge Common, eyes wide with wonder, and pointed out the treasures they encountered—the 7-spotted ladybug, the industrious bumblebee, the ocean spray, and the hardy salal. These were the native plants and animals that would become the mural’s stars. In an added educational dimension,

the children also identified non-native species, broadening their understanding of the local ecosystem.

Armed with this catalog of natural wonders, Jesse Campbell embarked on the creative journey of translating their vision into art. The mural’s design was thoughtfully developed, and black-and-white colouring sheets were provided to the children, allowing them to engage more deeply with their own ideas. The final design was a fusion of native species, featuring the bumblebee, the 7-spotted ladybug, salal berries, the sword fern, a Douglas fir, a pacific tree frog, ocean spray, and the bottom of the mural is lined with Nootka roses.

As Jesse breathed life into the mural, additional elements emerged spontaneously – a dragonfly, a familiar crow (a Fernwood icon), and a swallowtail butterfly. These additions enriched the mural’s narrative, weaving together the community’s collec-

tive love for their natural surroundings.

The transformation of the once-monochromatic wall into a vibrant tapestry is a sight to behold. Jesse’s professional and efficient work ethic ensured that the project was completed on time. The wall went from being entirely yellow, to being painted blue, to bursting with colours and life, reflecting the indigenous plants and animals that grace the mural.

The community’s reception of the mural has been very positive. It has become a beloved fixture at the Fernwood Community Centre, a testament to the power of community collaboration, artistic vision, and the profound connection between the community and the environment. This mural stands as a living reminder of the deep-rooted respect Fernwood holds for its indigenous flora and fauna, a legacy that will continue to flourish in the hearts and minds of all who encounter it.

Artist Jesse Campbell working on his new mural on the side of the Fernwood Community Centre. Photo: Mila Czemerys

Published by Fernwood Neighbourhood Resource Group

Editorial Committee

Chantille Viaud Mila Czemerys

Founding Editor Lisa Helps

Contributors

Emily Mahbobi Chantille Viaud

Rana Battah Aaren Topley

Nada Saad Mila Czemerys

Mark Dusseault Stephanie Keroack

Kayla Siefried Laurel Collins, MP

Lauren Gaultier Brian Lunger

Alex Pym Andy Harris

Art Mila Czemerys Axel

Don Craig David Cooper

Stephanie Keroack Lauren Gaultier

Matthew Milne

Production Mila Czemerys

Contact us

1240 Gladstone Ave, Victoria, BC V8T 1G6

T 250.381.1552 F 250.381.1509

info@fernwoodnrg.ca | villagevibe.ca

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The views expressed in the Village Vibe do not necessarily reflect the views of Fernwood NRG.

We gratefully acknowledge that Fernwood, our community where we live, work and play resides on the territory of the Lekwungen peoples, the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations.

declaration of principles & values

›› We are committed to creating a socially, environmentally, and economically sustainable neighbourhood;

›› We are committed to ensuring neighbourhood control or ownership of neighbourhood institutions and assets;

›› We are committed to using our resources prudently and to becoming financially self-reliant;

›› We are committed to the creation and support of neighbourhood employment;

›› We are committed to engaging the dreams, resources, and talents of our neighbours and to fostering new links between them;

›› We are committed to taking action in response to neighbourhood issues, ideas, and initiatives;

›› We are committed to governing our organization and serving our neighbourhood democratically with a maximum of openness, inclusivity and kindness;

›› We are committed to developing the skills, capacity, self-worth, and excellence of our neighbours and ourselves;

›› We are committed to focusing on the future while preserving our neighbourhood’s heritage and diversity;

›› We are committed to creating neighbourhood places that are vibrant, beautiful, healthy, and alive;

›› and, most of all, We are committed to having fun!

Embracing community unity

Chantille Viaud

Change is in the air at Fernwood NRG. Our most recent Annual General Meeting (AGM) marked a significant milestone for our community. For the first time in recent memory, turnout at the AGM extended well beyond just our board members, thanks in part I’m sure, to the launch of our first-ever Harvest Festival happening at the same time.

Our board co-chair, Kelsey Singbeil, showcased the remarkable work of our organization over the past year. It was inspiring to see the visual recap of it all—I could tell I was not alone in feeling a deep sense of pride for our shared accomplishments.

This year’s AGM also saw the acclamation of our Board of Directors, a group of nine outstanding individuals. Among them were familiar faces—Kelsey Singbeil, Eric Swanson, Lisa Matthaus, Rob Gillezeau, Justin Best, Tonny Kiptoo, Jesse Margolus, and Christy Pham—continuing their dedicated service to the community. Jade Ashbourne, the newest addition to the board, received a warm and enthusiastic welcome.

Our board is a dynamic group of fantastic

people that represent a mix of neighbours, activists, parents, renters, homeowners, public servants, non-profit leaders, analysts, front line community workers (and more!)—all united by a passion for the work that the NRG does in our community.

We bid a heartfelt farewell to Michael Lancaster, a dedicated board member whose influence and dedication will be deeply missed. Stay tuned for an upcoming edition, where we’ll share more about his impactful journey and introduce our newer board members, including Jade.

I am so excited to collaborate with this group. Their commitment underscores our collective goal to create a community that thrives on connection, justice, inclusivity, and shared joys.

Join us in this meaningful journey by becoming a member of Fernwood NRG. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a new face in the neighborhood, your involvement is crucial. Sign up through our website or at our front desk, and let’s work together to build a community where everyone feels welcome.

buzz: Welcome Fernwood NRG’s new Directors Rana & Aaren

My name is Rana Battah, and I’m originally from Palestine, Lebanon, and Jordan. Since August 2019, I’ve had the privilege of living in the Lekwungen people’s homelands. I am delighted to present myself as the new Director of Community Programs at Fernwood NRG, where I will oversee the Family, Youth, and Seniors Programming.

I am highly committed to social justice, human-centered leadership, and the creation of community-centered projects in collaboration with the neighbourhood.

I aspired to be a care bear as a child, and I grew up to be a humanitarian worker, which was the closest I could come! I started volunteering when I was 15, cofounded a local charity in Jordan when I was 23, and then moved to the international field in the hopes of making a greater impact. I worked on the Syrian conflict for six years before coming to Victoria to pursue my MA in Leadership Studies at UVic.

I am excited to continue the quest to improve the quality of life in Fernwood with you.

I’m Aaren Topley, a trans man of Scottish, English, and Jewish descent, residing on the homelands of the Lekwungen people. I am thrilled to introduce myself as the new Director of Strategic Priorities at Fernwood NRG. You might be wondering what that title entails. Essentially, I will be responsible for overseeing all of Fernwood NRG’s food security initiatives and co-building new community-focused neighbourhood projects.

››

›› Rana Battah

›› Aaren Topley

Fernwood NRG’s AGM on Saturday, September 16, 2023. Photo: Mila Czemerys

The Gift of Good Food turns 10!

›› Nada Saad &

With the leaves changing and the days getting shorter, it’s time to announce that the Gift of Good Food fundraiser is back—this year marks one decade of this fundraiser.

• In the past nine years, this program has supported over 1,500 families and raised around $850,000 towards fresh food for families.

• Our goal is to support 200 families in 2024 and raise $150,000 towards this campaign.

• If we reach our fundraising goal, we will break $1,000,000 in donations given to this campaign since it’s start.

Here’s a refresher—the Gift of Good Food raises funds to support families in need across the Capital Region District by providing fresh fruits and vegetables for the entire year. This year, the campaign runs from November 14th all the way until midnight on December 31st, 2023—we need your help!

The ongoing impacts of the pandemic, inflation, rising food costs, and the housing

crisis in our city, are all squeezing vulnerable families and forcing hard choices about what they can afford to put on the table. We want to ensure we can continue to support these families by providing consistent access to fresh, high quality food.

A parent from last year’s program shared that, “[the Gift of Good Food] has helped me to feed my family. I don’t know how I would be able to feed my growing teenager and preteen without it.” Your donations, along with our partners, staff, and volunteers combined efforts, support families who are in need of consistent, healthy produce for their children.

We have partnered with community organizations across Greater Victoria to

directly distribute fresh produce to the Gift of Good Food recipients through the Good Food Box program. The Good Food Box is a bulk buying food distribution program run by Fernwood NRG that packs and distributes bags of fresh produce from local farms and distributers.

There are lots of ways you can get involved and support this fundraiser:

• You can donate directly by going to thegiftofgoodfood.ca/ donate from November 14th until December 31st, 2023. All proceeds

make a huge impact!

• You can volunteer to support the campaign by distributing posters, dropping of donation request letters, picking up auction donations, and more! Email nada@fernwoodnrg. ca if you are interested in getting involved.

• You can also create your own fundraising team with your friends, family, co-workers, or anyone you want to team up with! Each fundraising team chooses a fundraising goal that they want to achieve. Teams can also choose to support families in a specific neighbourhood or at a specific organization. If this sounds right up your alley, please register your team at fernwoodnrg.ca/ggf-fundraising-teams or email nada@fernwoodnrg.ca if you have any questions.

• You can donate an item to our auction or create a fundraising initiative through your business.

• You can spread the word on social media or share this fundraiser with friends, at work, over email, by megaphone! Whatever you like.

Make sure to keep an eye on our social media (@fernwoodnrg) for updates and more ways to get involved.

My passion lies at the crossroads of social justice, food security, climate resilience, and community connectedness. To give you a glimpse of my past work, I played a pivotal role in initiating the Harvest4Knowledge project at Vic High. This project set out to bring Indigenous plants and traditional knowledge into the minds and hearts of children and youth. Additionally, I worked with Mason St. Farm and Vic High stu-

dents to establish the Vic High Learning Farm. These initiatives brought together individuals from our community to forge connections with one another and the land, all while growing food and medicine.

I am eager to bring this same spirit of collaboration and learning to my new role here at Fernwood NRG, as we work together to address critical issues and build a more connected and resilient community.

Get involved with this year’s fundraising campaign and help us break $1,000,000 all time donations

Meet Rana Battah (left), Director of Community Programs and Aaren Topley (right), Director of Strategic Priorities. Photo: Don Craig

thank you to all the volunteers and partners who make the

Photos: Don Craig

Mila Czemerys

Falling in love with Joni. Again.

›› Mark Dusseault

In the fall of 2016, the Belfry created I Think I’m Fallin’: The Songs of Joni Mitchel, a tribute to one of this country’s most exceptional musical treasures. The musical was an enormous success, one of the highest-selling shows in the Belfry’s nearly 50-year history.

Using only Mitchell’s stunning words and music, songs like Both Sides Now, Big Yellow Taxi, Chelsea Morning, River, and A Case of You are woven together to create a world of love and longing, of joy and heartbreak.

Three of the show’s original stars Jonathan Gould, Linda Kidder, and Anton Lipovetsky are returning and they will be joined by newcomers Hannah Mazurek and Chelsea Rose.

Joni’s contributions to the world of music are legendary - she’s crossed folk, pop and jazz borders, working and recording with some of the best in each genre. You’re probably humming one of her songs right now.

She has been nominated for 16 Grammy Awards, won 9, and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999. Earlier this year, she was awarded the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song.

Her artistry continues to inspire a new generation of artists and we’re sure you’ll share in the joy of her music for the first time or all over again.

The Belfry offers Pay-What-You-Want tickets to all of their performances.

For tickets or more information, visit belfry.bc.ca, call 250-385- 6815, or pop in during Box Office hours.

your calendar:

Celebrating creativity at the Owl Designer Fair

November 18 & 19, 2023 at the Fernwood Community Centre

›› Stephanie Keroack

Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of creativity and craftsmanship at this year’s Owl Designer Fair, taking place on November 18th and 19th. With 40 local talented vendors, free craft workshops, live music, and a delectable food truck, this event promises a weekend of artistic inspiration and community spirit.

The fair showcases the incredible talent within our community. From delicate handcrafted jewelry to intricate woodwork, there’s something for everyone. You can explore unique, one-of-a-kind items that make perfect gifts for the upcoming holiday season or find something special for yourself.

One of the highlights of the fair is the

free craft workshops. Whether you’re a seasoned artisan or a beginner, our variety of workshops offer a chance to learn new skills and foster your creative spirit.

Live music will provide the perfect backdrop as you stroll through the fair, with local musicians serenading the crowd throughout the weekend.

Don’t forget to refuel at the food truck offering a mouth-watering selection of snacks and meals. The delicious fare is sure to keep you energized as you explore the diverse array of crafts on display.

Join us on November 18th (10am to 5pm) and 19th (11am to 4pm) at the Fernwood Community Centre to celebrate the talents of our local artisans and embrace the spirit of the season. The Owl Designer Fair is more than just a shopping event; it’s an opportunity to connect with the community, support local artists, and take home beautiful, handcrafted treasures. We look forward to seeing you there!

Admission is $4/adult & kids are free.

My team is here to provide the assistance you need.

mark

Jonathan Gould and Anton Lipovetsky in I Think I’m Fallin’ - The Songs of Joni Mitchell created by Michael Shamata and Tobin Stokes / Photo by David Cooper / Cory Sincennes - Set and Costume Designer / Alan Brodie - Lighting Designer

The Owl Designer Fair brings artists, artisans, and the community together annually. Photo: Stephanie Keroack

garden gleanings: A welcome autumn

›› Kayla Siefried

Welcome October! I must admit, it’s hard for me, a person who absolutely thrives in summer, to be so welcoming of October, a month so classically representative of autumn. And yet, this year, I’m so ready. I’m ready to finish the harvest in the garden, pull in the winter squashes, tuck in the carrots, beets, and parsnips with a whole lot of leaf mulch, and stake up the overwintering purple sprouting broccoli so they can withstand the autumnal winds.

Summer this year was great, but it was also so dry and full of fire in our province. I’m so incredibly happy to be writing this on a rainy September day, a slow steady drizzle that the soil can soak up. And may it keep on coming.

As I did some reflecting with friends on the equinox, we used nature as a guide: what abundance from the summer season are we grateful for? What do we want to let go of as the leaves drop away from the trees? And what are we ready to open to, as

the darkness grows more abundant? I invite you to reflect on these questions too!

When I pondered the last of those questions, I realized I have a LOT to learn from the various gardens I tend. At this time of year as the days get shorter, and temperatures get cooler, plants slow their growth, focus their energy on roots stability and growth, and many go completely dormant. My summertime pattern of outward action, doing, and filling every moment of my day with tasks is coming to it’s seasonal close. What I’m opening to this autumn is learning from plants: to slow down, relearning how to just sit and read, how to be more settled, satisfied, and still.

So, while you pile the leaf mulch on your gardens (protect that soil!) perhaps you’ll ponder what your garden has to teach you. And don’t forget to give the Compost Education Centre a call or email us with any gardening and composting questions that come up as you put that lovely garden to rest.

Kayla making a labyrinth at the Compost Education Centre staff retreat. Photo courtesy of the Compost Education Centre.

No Space for Hate in Victoria

›› Laurel Collins, Member of Parliament for Victoria

Victoria is a place that is home to diverse, engaging, and socially minded citizens.

I was recently reminded of the compassion, commitment and inclusion of so many people in our community when I attended the No Space for Hate rally at the Legislature on September 20th. Thousands of individuals across Canada gathered to show their love and support for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community as a response to the rising hate that has been directed towards Trans people.

Across the country Conservative leaders have recently been stoking this hate with dangerous discriminatory policies. My NDP colleagues and I will continue to stand with Trans and gender-diverse people of all ages and from all backgrounds. We know that everyone deserves to feel safe and to have the freedom to be true to who they are. We will continue to listen to the concerns and proposed solutions raised by the queer community, as we push for legislation that better protects everyone.

My New Democrat colleagues and I are pushing for 29 concrete actions that

would affect positive, long-term changes for generations to come. This includes sufficient, stable funding for both organizations serving Trans and genderdiverse people, while remaining sensitive to their intersectional differences. We also need all levels of government to make comprehensive gender-affirming care a reality across Canada, with the goal to eventually provide this care under a federal universal healthcare plan. Our NDP team is also calling for the government to take a clear stance against anti-Trans hate and violence, to increase capacity funding for lifesaving mental health supports like the

community eats: A taste of Haultain Fish & Chips

Savouring tradition

›› Lauren Gaultier

Haultain Fish & Chips is not just a restaurant; it’s a beloved institution that has been dishing out delectable seafood for nearly 100 years. It has been a staple in Victoria for nearly a century. Located at 103-1580 Haultain St., this unassuming gem has been serving locals and tourists alike with its mouthwatering fish and chips since 1924 with only three owners. The restaurant’s enduring popularity is a testament to its unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity.

What makes Haultain Fish & Chips stand out is its dedication to preserving the essence of traditional British fish and chips. The menu is refreshingly simple, focusing on the classics with a few other options like burgers and chicken strips. The star of the

show, of course, is their signature fish and chips. Whether you prefer halibut, cod, or shellfish, Haultain’s crispy battered and deep-fried fish served in newspaper is a nod to the British classic.

While the fish is undeniably the highlight, the chips (aka fries) are hand cut and plentiful; don’t forget to smother them in malt vinegar or their homemade tartar sauce for an extra burst of flavour. For those who appreciate a bit of variety, Haultain offers additional sides, including coleslaw, onion rings, and fried zucchini. These sides complement the fish and chips, adding layers of flavor to your meal.

Beyond the fantastic food, what truly sets Haultain Fish & Chips apart is its sense of community. Stepping inside this cozy eatery is like stepping back in time, with its retro decor and friendly, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where locals gather to catch up with friends, where families

create lasting memories, and where newcomers are welcomed with open arms.

So, whether you’re a die-hard fish and chips enthusiast or simply in search of a delightful meal in Fernwood with a

Trans Lifeline and to provide targeted funding for research and innovation in gender-affirming surgeries. The full details of the 29 recommendations can be found at randallgarrison.ndp.ca/resources

There is no place for hatred in Canada and we must continue to lead with love and courage while taking collective action to address systemic issues of violence against the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

If you are experiencing injustice of any kind, please do not hesitate to contact my office. My team is available to assist you and can be reached at 250-363-3600 and laurel.collins@parl.gc.ca

welcoming atmosphere, Haultain Fish & Chips is the place to be. It’s a taste of tradition that keeps the community coming back for more, one crispy, golden bite at a time.

mark your calendar: Vinyl Record Fair - November 12, 2023

A benefit for the Victoria Native Friendship Centre

››

Brian Lunger

The Victoria Record Fair returns to the Fernwood Community Centre on  Sunday, November 12th from 11am to 4pm. Over 30 vendors from Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland, will be offering thousands of vinyl records, as well as CDs, cassettes and music memorabilia items.  Records of all styles and genres, old and new will be on sale, including rare collectibles, low cost bargains, and everything in between.

Admission to the Fair is by donation for adults, and kids with an adult enter for free. It’s a super fun event for music lovers of all

ages looking to add to their collections, with local DJs donating their time and tunes to keep things grooving and fingers flipping through the stacks of vinyl on sale.

A biannual fundraising event for local charities, the proceeds from the past two Victoria Record Fairs were donated to the Mustard Seed Food Bank, and the Newcomers Fund of St. Nicholas Church

supporting Ukrainian refugees settling in Victoria. This fair will be raising money to support the Victoria Native Friendship Centre (VNFC). VNFC is a great non-profit, Indigenous-led organization delivering over 75 programs to improve socio-economic conditions for urban Indigenous people in the Victoria area (visit  vnfc.ca  for more information). All

the money raised through rentals of vendor tables, admission donations made at the door, and the sales of donated records and CDs will be donated to VNFC.

Anyone interested in volunteering with the Victoria Record Fair, or donating records, CDs, or cassettes to be sold please contact Jason and Brian at VictoriaRecordFair@gmail.com

This century-old institution serves up great fish and chips on Haultain Street. Photo: Lauren Gaultier

fernwood community association: Neighbours unite mark your calendar: VIDEA Fair Trade Fair - November 25, 2023

New Board, transportation improvements, and festive markets ahead!

›› Alex Pym

The Fernwood Community Association (FCA) Board of Directors is back in action after a summer break, and they’re geared up for some exciting developments in our beloved neighborhood.

New Board, Fresh Start

The Fernwood Board of Directors recently convened to kick-start their agenda after the summer hiatus. They’re eager to address the challenges identified through responses to our community survey. Your feedback matters, and the FCA is all ears as they prepare to make positive changes.

Fernwood Road Improvements

The City of Victoria is constructing safe crossings along Fernwood Road at Grant Street, Vining Street, and at Gower Park. These upgrades will help to improve safety along the frontage of Vic High when it reopens, and to support traffic calming. Construction is expected to start in the fall.

The safe crossing at Gower Park (which has, by the way, two mature pear trees!) will dovetail nicely with the My Great Neighbourhood Grant that the Land Use Committee (LUC) has received for the revitalization of this important community thoroughfare. We can’t wait to see the glow up of this beautiful plot of land, donated by the Gower family many years ago in remembrance of Mr. Frank Weetman Gower, a nature-lover in the Fernwood Neighbourhood, gardener and teacher at Vic High.

The City of Victoria is also planning for transportation corridor improvements along six streets in Victoria, three of which closely impact the Fernwood community: Caledonia, Cook, and Tolmie.

Festive Markets on the Horizon

Get ready for some holiday cheer! The FCA would like to host festive markets in the hall and gallery for the holidays. It’s the FCA’s aim to cultivate a loving and supportive spirit in the Fernwood community during this season.

Find out more about our rentals and sign up for our monthly newsletter at thefca.ca

Keeping Fernwood Community Healthy

›› Andy Harris

VIDEA’s Winter Fair, previously the Fair Trade Fair, is BACK for another day of beautiful world crafts, fair trade and Indigenous goods, and catering from the amazing International Women’s Catering Coop. Join us Saturday, November 25th, at the Fernwood Community Centre (1240 Gladstone Avenue). We’ll be there from 11am to 4pm!

VIDEA’s Winter Fair will showcase artisan clothing and accessories, handmade gifts and home decor, jewelry and personal care items from fair trade and Indigenous

vendors.

Shop locally, internationally, and ethically. Shop with a conscience!

RSVP at https://fb.me/e/uObm1gnhV

VIDEA is a non-profit organization committed to ending global poverty and creating a more just and equitable world.

VIDEA strengthens the environment where youth and communities, globally, have access to the education, information, skills and support necessary to take feminist leadership in developing their own sustainable solutions to gender equality, environment, Indigenous and human rights violations, and injustice.

*free parking TO MP OV YOU

Scene in Fernwood : Harvest Celebration & AGM