villagevibe January 2007 : News and views from the heart of Fernwood
Walk for the homeless dead The Ad Hoc Committee to End Homelessness began meeting earlier this fall and n Thursday December 14th, homeless was galvanized on October 22nd – National Housing Day – when members acted as the residents of Victoria and their allies “outer circle” for Craig Ballantyne who squatted held a funeral procession from the Janion Building at 1614 Store Street to Our Place on Johnson Street to the Council protest the lack of affordable housing in Victoria. Chambers at City Hall. Led by a bugle player Since then, the Committee has met every followed by one large black coffin and four smaller white ones, the march was held to mark Wednesday at 7:00pm at Silver Threads and the deaths of those who have died on the streets has become a regular force in Thursday’s City Council meetings. of Canadian cities. After placing the coffins at the doors of City Anti-poverty activist Rose Henry had Hall, the marchers shared a meal and waited for ‘decorated’ the coffins with the names of the the council meeting to begin. dead. “The names on these coffins,” she said, When he addressed Council, Lucas referred “these are people who have walked through these to the City’s “Extreme Weather Protocol” doors (of Our Place).” adopted in December 2005, which sees a Organized by the Ad Hoc Committee to temporary increase in what are called ‘stage End Homelessness, the march was originally two’ shelter spaces when extreme weather motivated by information that four people had conditions are forecasted and all the regular died on the streets of Victoria during the most beds are full. Speaking on behalf of the Ad Hoc recent cold snap in late November. Although Committee, he requested that the City lobby these specific deaths could not be confirmed, BC Housing in order to guarantee funding so the group decided to go ahead with the Walk for the Dead anyway in order to draw Council’s that a minimum of stage two shelter spaces are attention to the need for emergency shelter beds available seven days a week starting January 1st and running until at least March 1st of for the rest of the winter. every year. Second, Lucas demanded that if “The most important thing we can BC Housing in unwilling to provide financial do right now,” said Ad Hoc Committee support, the city cover associated costs using member Philippe Lucas of the Vancouver its Affordable Housing Trust Fund, thereby Island Compassion Society, “is to keep guaranteeing extra shelter spaces for the rest of people alive through this winter.” >> by Lisa Helps
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– continued on page 4
Layton tours Cornerstone December 21st may have been the shortest and darkest day of the year, but it brought some of the brightest lights in Canadian politics to our neighbourhood! MPs Denise Savoie and Federal NDP leader Jack Layton came to Fernwood to visit the Cornerstone. After a lengthy tour, including visits with our tenants, a stop in the café for a delicious lunch, and an orientation to our innovative geothermal system, Denise and Jack hung out and chatted with Fernwood NRG staff and board members. Many fruitful ideas emerged such as creating a National Alternate Energy Corporation through the feds, (kind of like PetroCan was – but without the greenhouse gasses!) which could directly purchase and therefore develop a Canada-wide alternate energy infrastructure. Stay tuned. Perhaps the feds will help us cover the roof of the Cornerstone with photovoltaic cells, and we can feed sun power back into the grid!
in this issue Meet the Cornerstone Café Baristas Page 3 Feature: UVic’s Barrier Free Learning Initiative Page 4 Gardening Crossword Puzzle Page 6
editorial :
Neighbourhood Watch
It seems that no matter how many buildings are unboarded, how many pubs refurbished and how many coffee shops open with large windows (albeit somewhat steamy) looking onto the centre of Fernwood Village, all is still not well in the ‘hood. Sitting on our porch on the corner of Vining and Fernwood recently, sipping our morning coffee, we encountered a prospective neighbour, a man roaming the streets of Fernwood looking to buy a house in the neighbourhood. “How are things here?” he asked. “Do you feel safe walking alone at night?” “Absolutely,” we both chimed. “It’s a great neighbourhod. A safe neighbourhod. And with all the changes that have been taking place recently (we gestured around the corner towards the village) it’s gotten even better.”
The next morning we came out and found our car window smashed. Later that day I was having tea at a friend’s house at Forbes and Pembroke and we noticed a police officer wandering through his neighbour’s yard. “What’s going on?” we asked. “Break in,” said the officer, “in mid-afternoon.” A few days later we received an email from our Vining Street Blockwatch team alerting us to a whole series of break-ins and vandalisms in early December: 3rd, theft under $5000, 1300 block Yates; 4th, mischief $5000 or under, 1900 block Shakespeare, theft of auto under $5000, 1200 block Princess; 5th, theft under $5000, 2000 block Shakespeare; 6th, theft under $5000, 1100 block Johnson, break and enter 1100 block Bay, break
and enter residence 1100 block Ormond; 7th, mischief $5000 or under, Harrison at Johnson; 8th, break and enter residence, 1600 Block Chambers Street and on the list goes I am sure. What is a good Fernwoodian to do? Is the answer more police patrols? Greater surveillance of our neighbourhood? My impulse is that this is not the answer. Most
the Province, and indeed the federal government to address issues of systemic inequality that lead to unsafety in our neighbourhoods. Another way to help – and we do this at our Vining Street place – is to leave pop bottles, beer bottles, and wine bottles to be collected by those who will take them to the bottle depot for a refund. This simple
All is still not well in the ‘hood’ people don’t steal for ‘fun’ but because of poverty, addiction, homelessness, or simply the need to feed one’s family. Crime is a socio-economic not a personal problem. One way out of this current and ongoing conundrum, then, is to lobby the appropriate bodies – the City,
act provides much needed income for those who might resort to other means to find it. This is one solution among many, to be sure. Yet it fosters a sense of collectivity, of solidarity, even with those who we might think at first are that notorious and dangerous ‘other’.
declaration of principles and 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;
Fernwood NRG update
We are committed to the creation and support of neighbourhood employment;
>> by Roberta Martell
We are committed to engaging the dreams,
At the Cornerstone, wild weather loaded us up with snow, but thanks to Gary McLaughlin, Mark Salter, Keith Dewey and the guys from Strongback, our sidewalks were clear for the weather-weary Fernwoodians making their pilgrimage to the Café. In a testament to bio-regional sustainability, we were able to stay open because we’ve hired (fantabulous!) locals, and we buy locally. Thanks to all our wonderful baristas for making their way in to serve up great treats to packed houses!
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!
It’s time to envision where it is we want to place our focus With all the red tape behind us, Fernwoodians George and Linda Szasz have the green light to launch their much anticipated Wine and Tapas bar in the middle two suites of the Cornerstone! Thanks to everyone who signed letters of support, and to the Belfry for their assistance. Watch for an article in the next Village Vibe profiling George and Linda, and previewing the newest, hottest restaurant in the ‘hood! The Community Centre is hopping with Monday Community Days and Dinners, drop-in floor hockey, drop-in badminton, free yoga, senior’s lunches and
Page 2 | News and views from the heart of Fernwood | January 2007
Best Babies Dinners. We hosted a city wide youth committee meeting, an Ethiopian community dinner and dance that was open to all and by donation, and had to postpone – due to weather – the ‘Keep the Fires Burning’ earth-based community dialogues. Please consider attending this innovative event at the Community Centre on January 25th. With the Cornerstone now full, the Village square revitalized and the Centre packed with programs, it is time for us to celebrate the intense work of the last few years, and to envision where it is we want to place our focus. Is it on a renovation of the City’s Community Centre? Is it on the square itself ? Is it on the oft-discussed changes planned for Fairey Tech, school fields and the parking lot at the school? Recreation Renewal is back on our radar screens, as the City is still looking at how to respond to its aging recreation/community centre infrastructure. Given all that’s on the horizon in Fernwood, the board and executive of Fernwood NRG will spend part of our time at our annual strategic planning retreat this month looking at how we might proactively address some of these issues. We are planning a neighbourhood forum and have been discussing inviting architect and planner Frank D’Ambrosio to share his insights on Fernwood. Frank was the author of the Fernwood Facilities Study in 2000; it would be prudent to review and reflect on his comprehensive work as our neighbourhood moves forward.
VillageVibe
What are you thoughts and wishes for Fernwood this year? views from the street :
Obie Wilkins “I think that it is great how the neighbourhood has changed so far, how it has grown and still kept its sense of community. If anything, I would like to see more of the same in the coming year. I love Fernwood!”
Sarah Kirby
Denise Yeo
“Fernwood is really coming together. It is so friendly and warm. I don’t live in the neighbourhood, but I would sure like to. I love coming here to drink tea! Good luck in the New Year. You are definitely on the right track.”
Meet the Cornerstone Café Baristas ...
“I love how the neighbourhood has been evolving. Fernwood is my home and I look forward to growing with it in the New Year. More good things coming for us both.”
Awake!
The Cornerstone Café is up and running and has been serving Fernwoodians and other Victorians for almost two months. We’re ironing out wrinkles, trying to chase the steam from the windows, and keeping your Fernwood NRG To Go a brewin’. Come in and join us for a hot chocolate, an organic soy latte or a bowl of homemade soup; hang out in your neighbourhood living room and stop to chat with our energetic, enthusiastic, and socially conscious staff.
by Mark Bamford
My eyes open. Somewhere the sun lifts above the mountains, its joy spills over everything. This joy, is what keeps the whole phenomena dance ecstatic. Look, everyone participates! Birds are lifted into the sky. Plants expand and mimic that joy through their flowers. The bees make it sensual, their kisses become honey. The ocean surges because of this shining. Listen, everything is given an open invitation to this loving! Our faces only frown when we forget that we already know all the steps to this great dance. In truth we make up each step as we go. Moved by the movement inside. And when we remember, we always breath deep, relax, and give ourselves to that mysterious music. The way the sun gently slides into the sea. We are here to know love. The roots of this love penetrate deep into the fabric, the very ground of our experience. It ties our thoughts to our cells, and ornaments our minds with great star systems, reaching deeper into the mystery. We breathe... and a million new things are born. Somewhere, right now a woman gathers water, flowers unfold in the cool morning. The ocean, and our blood move in cadence with the moon. Each night we lie down and swim in the great water. Each morning we are resurrected fresh and new. Each and every line of this great uni-verse song is written in every cell and impulse of this tiny infinite mirror body. Told in laughter and tears. Each moment a fresh page...
VillageVibe
January 2007 | www.fernwoodneighbourhood.ca | Page 3
University of Victoria’s Barrier-Free Learning Initiative feature :
>> by Annalee Lepp
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n December 12th an information session was held at the Fernwood Community Centre, which introduced prospective students to two unique courses being offered by the
University of Victoria: University 101, which just completed its second term, and University 102 which will first be offered in January 2007. Both are free, non-credit introductory university courses in the Humanities (101) and the Social Sciences (102). These courses are specifically designed for people who might otherwise not consider university as an option because of economic, social, and other barriers – single parents, those living close to the poverty line, people with disabilities or with mental health and addiction issues. The courses aim to be as barrier-free as possible, to provide an accessible and engaging space for anyone who has the desire to learn, and to offer an enriching and empowering learning experience in an environment of respect and acceptance. As one first term University 101 graduate stated, “I am really going to miss this program; it has certainly enhanced the quality of my life.” Two days later, on December 14th I attended a graduation ceremony for 24 University 101 students, which was held in the Senate Chambers at the University of Victoria. For me, as one of the instructors and as a member of the University 101 Advisory Committee, it was an extraordinary event as each student, cheered by family, friends, former graduates, donors, and UVic faculty and staff, went up to receive a completion certificate. Some graduates took the stage and talked about the significance of University 101 for their lives; others spoke to me informally. Elizah told me that after experiencing a brain injury in 2001, she felt that “her life shut down.” Participating in the course, she said, contributed to “a renewed self-confidence and showed her a way into the university.” Jim talked about “his love of learning” and expressed appreciation for “the opportunity to expand his knowledge
Jim talked about “his love of learning.”
and consciousness.” Jillian emphasized that the course had not only resulted in the forging of new and lasting friendships, but also “helped her look at things in new ways in a wide open space.” She told the audience at the completion ceremony that, “Knowledge is power; use it to the best of your ability.” Barbara told me that she “enjoyed every minute of the course. I loved my classmates and the instructors, and even the pressure of assignments and getting them done. I am grateful that I got a chance.”
Walk
| from page 1
this winter. Either way available shelter spaces would be increased from 200 to about 260 for the next few months. “It’s just a band-aid solution to a very complex problem,” he said, “but sometimes a band-aid stops the bleeding long enough to save the patient.” The December 14th action by the Ad Hoc Committee to End Homelessness followed closely on the heels of NDP Leader Jack Layton’s address in Parliament on December 7th. Layton asked the Conservative government to declare a national state of emergency.
“The rising number of homeless people on the streets of this country is a disgrace and we need federal action now to establish emergency shelters and put money into essential services to keep people safe this winter,” he said. On December 19th Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, announced $526 million for the new Homelessness Partnering Strategy (HPS) a strategy aimed at combating homelessness in communities across Canada and extending the Canada Mortgage and Housing Company’s renovation programs.
Page 4 | News and views from the heart of Fernwood | January 2007
Ask about our monthly specials!
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University 101 and 102 are modeled on initiatives launched elsewhere.
support provided by eight volunteer teaching assistants (many of whom are
The concept began with the Clemente Course on the Lower East Side
UVic graduate students) who attend each class and facilitate small group
of Manhattan. This course has been running for over a decade and has
discussions/activities. Each class also begins with a warm meal, which gives
expanded to six American states. Closer to home, the University of British
students, teaching assistants, and the instructor the opportunity to discuss
Columbia launched Humanities 101 in 1998 and has extended its offerings
the reading materials, to ask questions about written or creative assignments,
to include Science 101 and Writing 101. Kristin Semmens, a UVic History
or simply to socialize.
instructor and co-chair of the University 101/102 Advisory Committee, was involved in the Vancouver program and was instrumental in spearheading
University 101 and 102 offers additional resources. Each student receives
this initiative at UVic.
a UVic Distance Education Card which gives them access to the UVic computer labs, the library, and on-line resources. Students also have access
Now having completed its second year, University 101 offers two hours of
to UVic’s Counselling Services during the course, which is designed to
classes, two evenings a week over a twelve week period at UVic’s Downtown
provide support to students experiencing any personal challenges that might
campus on Government St. Following an intensive student orientation,
be interfering with their ability to participate fully in the course. Other
which includes a library and computer lab tour, students are introduced to a
resources include free bus tickets, childcare subsidies, notebooks, and pens.
new academic subject by a new volunteer university instructor each week. As
Launching such a course requires a lot of energy and commitment.
one graduate of University 101’s first term stated, “This is an extraordinary
Becky Cory, the project coordinator, works tirelessly mentoring students,
opportunity for people who are marginalized to have exposure
Jillian emphasized that the course had “helped her look at things in new ways in a wide open space.”
to intelligent and comprehensive material.” The topics covered this fall ranged from critical
addressing their needs, and juggling the minute details involved in the
thinking, professional and creative writing, police ethics and philosophy, to
successful operation of the course as a whole as well as each class – from
British Columbia Indigenous film and history, Hitler and the Holocaust,
holding information sessions for prospective students to finding restaurants
Canadian and art history, as well as English and Mexican literatures.
and community organizations who are willing to donate meals to
University 102 will move away from academic subjects traditionally taught
transporting those meals to the Downtown Campus. Behind the scenes,
in the Humanities and will focus on the Social Sciences (anthropology,
the University 101/102 Advisory Committee (which includes a small team
psychology, political science, economics, sociology, geography, and
of University 101 graduates, university instructors, community people,
environmental studies).
and UVic’s Continuing Studies Division staff ) plans the course and the curriculum, discusses the budget, and engages in fundraising initiatives.
The structure of each class varies depending on the style of the instructor, but the preparation of assigned reading materials as well as active,
University 101 and 102 are partially funded by the Faculty of Humanities
participatory, and discussion-based learning are common elements in
and the Faculty of Social Sciences. Andrew Rippin, the Dean of Humanities,
each evening session. Such a learning environment not only introduces
who spoke at the December 14th graduation ceremony, emphasized
students to diverse academic subjects, but also gives them the space to bring
that financial and institutional support for University 101 boils down to
their experiences and knowledge to the classroom. When teaching the
the principle of educational equity and making the university learning
Introduction to Critical Thinking week of the course, I was struck by the
more accessible. “This course is a small effort in this regard,” he said. The
incredible engagement, energy, passion, and dedication of the students;
underlying vision is to bring education resources to the larger community,
each student came to both classes having read the assigned readings (which
to provide university instructors with an opportunity to share their love of
doesn’t often happen in a regular university classroom), fully prepared to ask
knowledge beyond UVic classrooms, and to demonstrate the university’s
probing questions, share their perspectives, and debate the ‘big’ issues. While
responsibility to the community. “Not only can we give to the community,”
creating these learning opportunities is in part made possible by the efforts
Dean Rippin said, “it is also our responsibility to do so.” With both the
of each instructor, equally integral to this process is the assistance and
generous UVic and community support put forth thus far, it seems that University 101 and 102 are here to stay.
If you are interested in learning more about University 101 and 102 – as a prospective student, the donor of a meal, or as a financial contributor, please contact Becky Cory at 361-7014 or uni101@uvic.ca. Or check out the website at www.uvic.ca/uni101
Our Office is Open to Serve You Denise Savoie, MP A Voice for Victoria in Ottawa 970 Blanshard Street 363-3600 www.denisesavoie.ca
VillageVibe
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
January 2007 | www.fernwoodneighbourhood.ca | Page 5
garden gleanings :
Renewal in the garden
Gardening is a learning experience, and this is a good time to assess how the garden is doing. >> by Margaret Hantiuk As the Winter Solstice approaches, we all await the return of light and warmth to our lives. So does the garden. This is the time of year to have a good look at our gardens as we can really see the ‘bare bones’, the basic design and structure. Is it interesting? Does it take advantage of the natural landscape features (established trees, rocks, waterways), the ‘aspects’: the ‘lie’ or slope of the land, the directions? What is the surrounding property like? Is there anything that would be good to hide or perhaps to invite into your view? Do you have privacy issues? How are your neighbours? A busy street? It can be less expensive (and more attractive!) to plant a laurel hedge than to build a good fence. How are the views from the street? (‘Curbside appeal’ will dramatically improve the value of your home.) How is the view from your windows inside, especially where you sit or work and look out? How do things look from the outside patio or deck where you may have created an outdoor living space? This is the time of year to look around, to walk around, to plan and dream ... to summon your creativity. Perhaps you are starting from scratch, renovating an old garden, or adding some new features for interest. Could an existing bed be enlarged or a beautiful shape created? Straight lines are unnatural. Try using a rope to ‘draw’ a new edge to shape your borders. Have you always admired rockeries? Now is the time to plan and research! Could you make your home more inviting with some beautiful containers near the front door or around your patio/deck? What about some lovely shrubs or small trees that could be planted by the walks, a window, or the patio? Do you want to invite wildlife? Could you add an outdoor living space or enhance the one you’ve created? A pond perhaps?
Do you have a veggie garden that you’d like to enlarge or do you want to transform it into a mixed herb/kitchen cottage style garden that is more fun and attractive? Plan a play area for the kids? Always wanted your own fruit trees or roses? What about a little path instead of a boring sidewalk? There are some lovely shrubs and small trees bred for city gardens that have all-season interest: spring blossoms, lovely summer foliage, fall color and even interesting bark
or twig color in the winter. Some shrubs and plants are evergreen and have lovely foliage all year. Others have a remarkable fragrance or winter blooms. A few new perennials can be added and old ones may need separating.
Perhaps a whole bed needs to be renovated; you might want to remove old perennials that do not do so well, are too crowded or were poorly planted and badly sited. Gardening is a learning experience, and this is a good time to assess how the garden is doing. You may need to move things around, to make a note of it for when the soil is less boggy. This is also a good time to order a load of good topsoil for a new bed or to dress your existing beds. Most businesses will allow you to mix a load of topsoil, compost, gravel or sand, and/or mulch. It’s also a good season to visit the garden nurseries, to have a good look around and to pick the brains of the staff when they are not so busy. Winter is also a good time to look at your existing trees and shrubs to see what needs pruning and perhaps even removal. Larger trees can be pruned or ‘limbed’ so that they are safer, more attractive and so that more light comes through as well. Consult an arborist or professional for larger jobs. Make a note or tie brightly colored ribbons to limbs that you would like to remove. It is easier to see what needs to be done now, but pruning is best done later in March although removal or limbing can be done at any time. Lastly, do you want to add or replace any of the hardscape – the walks/paths/paving, fencing, patios and edging/rockery. This can be done by hiring professionals, or if you have less funds, by looking around at less expensive (and often more creative and interesting) alternatives and doing it yourself. You can go to the library to get ideas and info and both Glendale Gardens (formerly the Horticultural Center of the Pacific) and the Victoria Horticultural Society have wonderful libraries that are free to members (membership in both is a small yearly fee.) You may have material in your yard that can be used as creative solutions or material from your travels that can be recycled and salvaged. Renewal in the garden is a natural process that we can use to create an uplifting experience for the garden, the gardener, and for all who are fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of our creations.
Fernwood General Gardening Crossword
Crossword Creator: Lee Stempski My name is Lee Stempski and I have been living in Victoria since 1994 (in Fernwood since 2003) and haven’t looked back! I am originally from Toronto but grew up abroad in places such as Barbados, St. Lucia, Tanzania, and Kenya. I did my horticultural schooling in Ontario (Niagara Parks Commission School
of Horticulture, University of Guelph) and completed my Diploma in Adult Teaching at Vancouver Community College. I’ve had many jobs in Victoria: Head Gardener/Instructor for the Horticultural Centre of the Pacific; Gardener at the University of Victoria; Parks Assistant for the City of Victoria Parks Department. Presently I work for a
small organic landscaping company – Helios Landscaping. We are a chemical-free company, highly committed in using environmentally sound practices. (www.helioslandscaping.com) I also do some consulting so if any of you readers would like some gardening advice why not give me a call (inquire via villagevibe@ fernwoodneighbourhood.ca) and I would love to assist you in any way.
Page 6 | News and views from the heart of Fernwood | January 2007
VillageVibe
faces of fernwood :
fernwood marketplace
Sue Mulholland says it’s so.
Thank you Fernwood’s Community Day families and staff would like to give a big thank you to BOLEN BOOKS management and staff. For the second year, we have received a lovely donation of children’s books for our Festive Winter Party. Kudos! We greatly appreciate your generosity!
Wanted Volunteer to help with Saturday Plastic Recycling at the Fernwood Community Centre. Your time is only needed for two hours the second Saturday of every
>> by Susan Salvati Sue Mulholland, is one of those people who swirls like a powerful storm. Owner of Fernwood’s own gallery, She Said, Sue is a centre around which creativity whirls. You need time to enjoy She Said gallery because the beauty of the small space is everywhere; it enchants all of the senses. And you need time to get to know Sue. On a torrential afternoon, I sat in the store rocking chair to chat. In between ringing up sales for some Vancouver visitors and rushing to show a regular patron some new pieces of vintage clothing, Sue sat for a while. She is fun; her style breathes energy. On this day she is in her green square eyeglasses, black bouclé sweater, a black feathery and beaded bracelet and a huge pendant and bead necklace that is one of her signature pieces. Ever playful, she is wearing a set of pink angel wings on her head, a gift from her staff.
precious stones hang suspended, inviting touch, as do the beautiful, finely-knit shawls, the wool felt toys, and the one-of-a-kind purses. There are vivid paintings, mosaic mirrors, candles burning, and, behind the desk, a fresh carrot cake just brought in by a staff member. Sue offers me a piece and explains the philosophy behind She Said. “I want to support and promote local creativity. This is not so much about having a gallery. Art is such a perfect way for me to relax and it is such a joyful experience to create. That is what I want to support and encourage in other women.” She explains how a woman might come in and mention that she has started to make some jewelry. Sue encourages her to bring it in and then might give her some suggestions. She believes that the gallery serves to assist women in developing their self-esteem and confidence around their work. She also insists that the artists and artisans set their own pricing and sees this
month. Contact Sue at tpepsue@shaw.ca.
Home Based Businesses in Fernwood We’re looking for you … are you looking for us? An upcoming Village Vibe feature story is on home-based businesses in the neighbourhood. Contact us to be interviewed (villagevibe@ fernwoodneighbourhood.ca) or to advertise your business in the Marketplace (marketplace@ fernwoodneighbourhood.ca).
Free New-ish wheelchair to good home. Contact Fernwood Community Centre for more info. 381-1552
Furniture Fundraiser Come on into the Cornerstone Café and see the chair that Ted built. Ted Hodson has donated one of his
Ever playful, she is wearing a set of pink angel wings on her head, a gift from her staff.
beautiful handmade chairs to our neighbourhood living room. Can you spot it? In support of the Cornerstone Café, Ted is offering our neighbourhood an opportunity to fill the Cafe with these creations.
I learn that Sue’s past includes travels throughout the world, modeling in the US, waitressing, and work in construction. She has also worked in Prince George in the Reconnect program for street kids in addition to spending fifteen years as a family support worker in Vancouver for the Ministry of children and families. All this until she discovered her artistic side. When I ask how she describes a dream: “I was sitting on a mountainside painting the ocean, Katharine Hepburn-like, and there was a Mr. Right.” Sue remembers telling her husband Paul about the dream. Later for Christmas, he gave her everything she needed to begin watercolour painting. Mostly self-taught, Sue rented studio space in Fernwood for a couple of years where she continued to paint, as well as delving into mosaic and jewelry making. She also showed her art from this space. In May 2004, she had a conversation with the owner of Secret Village, a bead store that previously operated where She Said now stands. The owner was looking to transition out of the business and suggested that Sue might take on the venture. She immediately thought that this could be a place where she could show her art and that of her many artistic girlfriends. She phoned Paul to tell him about her idea and he gave his full support. Within an hour the rental agreement was signed. After renovating the space, Sue opened the gallery in June 2004. Walk into the gallery today and you will immediately begin to melt into the beauty that surrounds you. There is a jazzy CD playing, and the sound of a wind chime. There is the aroma of soap and a string of small lights softened with boa-like feathers. Strands of semi-
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as tangible measure of self-esteem. Then, she says, “I call them to come get a cheque, and they flip out.” The artist takes 70% of the sale price, a ratio that is very generous comparatively. The gallery is completely local and presently houses the work of ninety-eight artists and artisans, including Sue’s own work, at least a third of which are from Fernwood. Sue is also the face behind the Fernwood Market. For two summers She worked very hard to bring life to the square, investing personally in the venture. She was successful in creating a network for vendors wishing to come to Fernwood. Though she is looking to pass on this project to another interested neighbour, she did graciously provide Fernwood residents with a place of encounter for two seasons. As a local entrepreneur, Sue speaks very highly of the neighbourhood in which she lives and works. “Without a doubt, it’s the best neighbourhood. Both of us (she and Paul) feel so supported here. It’s the most welcoming, supportive and kindhearted neighbourhood. I love Fernwood!” Sue feels it is her responsibility to promote our community to those who don’t live here. “Many have the false impression that Fernwood is a frightening neighbourhood, which in fact it is not. Fernwood is a wonderful place to visit, enjoy the theatre, and have a great cup of coffee or a She Said Martini at the new Fernwood Inn.” Sue said it, so it must be true. The She Said gallery offers very reasonably priced classes in beading and jewelry making, mosaic art, card making, knitting and crotcheting. Classes are ongoing and enquires can be made to the gallery at 361-3372.
He is graciously offering his chairs at $250.00 each ($100.00 below his usual asking price.) In addition to the logo, each chair will have a space for an inscription, dedicating the piece to an individual, group or business. This is a limited opportunity as there will be a total of forty chairs. To place an order, come into the Cornerstone Café today, sign up and help make your neighbourhood space even cozier.
Advertise Here Your ad could be here! $5.00 for three lines. $1/additional line. Send an email to marketplace@ fernwoodneighbourhood.ca. Ads due the 10th of the month for the following month’s issue.
JANUARY 2007
"COMMUNITY KITCHENS " Cooking on a budget? Start the New Year cooking up a storm! Join others in Fernwood to plan for and make five nutritious meals once a month. • Save time • Save money • Try new food • Learn new recipes • Get to know your neighbours Call the Fernwood Community Centre 3811552 ext 132 for more info (Priority given based on need)
January 2007 | www.fernwoodneighbourhood.ca | Page 7
what’s on in Fernwood Jan 2007
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villagevibe
Make Yer Neighbourhood Nicer
Kids & Families
FREE Yoga!
Parent & Tot Playgroup
(Vinyasa Flow): Tuesdays, 10:30am
Total Plastics Recycling Day
Ongoing Tuesdays & Thursdays. FCC
– 12:30pm, in the FCC multi-purpose
Sat, Jan.13, Back of Fernwood
Gym, 9:30am - 11:30am, $1 per family,
room.
Published by Fernwood NRG
Community Centre (FCC) 10am - Noon.
snacks/crafts/circle time.
Holistic Health & Healing
(Fernwood Neighbourhood
(Every 2nd Sat of Month) Recycle
Rhythm Circle Time
Healing meditation based on Chinese
Resource Group)
plastics of all kinds (Styrofoam packing,
Drop-in select Tuesdays 3:00 pm to
Five Elements: Fire, Earth, Metal, Water,
soft plastics and bags, and ALL hard/
4:00 pm in the Multi-Purpose Room.
Wood, plus discussion of topics chosen
1240 Gladstone Street
rigid plastics) plus old electronics.
Free!
by group. Ongoing Mondays, FCC,
By donation to cover transportation.
Victoria, BC V8T 1G6
Mother Goose
10:00–11:30am, Free!
Community Kitchens
Pre-register-10 weeks per session.
T 250.381.1552
Falun Gong
This popular program is now back!
Tuesdays (Call 381-1552 Ext.22 to
Peaceful meditation practice. Ongoing
Cooking on a budget? Start the New
register and for info) FCC Multi-Purpose
Wednesdays, FCC, 5:00pm – 7:00pm,
Year cooking up a storm! Join others in
Room, 1:00pm - 2:30pm, Songs, rhymes
everyone welcome, Free!
your community to plan for and make
& stories-Free! ($2 for songbook)
five nutritious and delicious meals once
Community Day Parent Group
a month. Save time and money and
Family directed and facilitated
meet some new recipes and neighbours.
playgroup! Ongoing Mondays, 9:30am
Call #381-1552 ext 132 for more info.
– 11:30am. Proposed activities for January include Italian stone soup,
Special Events
knitting/crocheting, felt puppet making,
Land Marks: A Lecture Series on
and a parent education speaker.
Public Art
FCC Gym, Free!
“Passions and Perspective: Public Art in
F 250.381.1509
Fernwood Autumn Glow (55+)
villagevibe@fernwood neighbourhood.ca www.fernwoodneighbourhood.ca
Gentle exercise, lunch & activities; Ongoing Fridays, FCC, 11:00am, $5.50
Editor: Lisa Helps
for lunch.
Contributors:
Music, Art, Theatre, and Entertainment
Mark Bamford
“Honour” at the Belfry Theatre
Annalee Lepp
A “frank, honest play that cannot fail
Roberta Martell
Margaret Hantiuk
to move anyone who has ever put their
with presentations from artists Robert
Youth, Adults & Seniors
Wise, Douglas Sent, and Linda
Drop-in Badminton
to Feb. 11, for tickets call 385-6815 or
Stanbridge with Q & A to follow. Wed,
Ages 12 to Adult, everyone welcome.
head to www.belfry.bc.ca.
Jan. 24, 7:00pm, Victoria City Hall, Free!
Ongoing Tuesdays, 5:30pm to 6:45pm,
Victoria Bluegrass Assoc. Jam
Neighbourhood Emergency
FCC Gym, $2 per person or $5 for a
Ongoing Tuesdays Orange Hall, 7:30
Preparedness Program Workshops
family of 3!
– 10:30pm, $2 to play, free to listen.
Individual and Family Preparedness,
Free Internet and Computer Access
(Last Tuesday of month is open stage/
You may be on your own for up to 72
Complete your one-time registration and
feature night; cost varies).
hours before help arrives. Learn how
then get online through the Community
Lee Hamer
to prepare. Mon, Jan. 22, Yates St.
Access Program. FCC Community
Canadian folksinger performs select
Fire Hall (use Camosun St Entrance),
Room, 9:15am to 8:30pm, Monday to
Weds at J.K. Do Forno Café in Fernwood
6:45 – 8:45pm, Free!
Friday, except for 11:00am to 3:00pm
Square. 6:30pm – 8:30pm, free!
Free Skate
on Wednesdays. Free!
Live Music at Logan’s
Free skating at the Memorial Centre
Drop-in Floorhockey
For listings, go to www.loganspub.com
Arena (this month, with the Salmon
Co-ed Adult (18+), all equipment
Kings), Sunday, Jan. 21, from 3:00
provided. Ongoing Tuesdays and
– 4:30pm. Free spaces limited to 300.
Thursdays, FCC Gym, 7:00pm –
Pick up tickets up to two weeks ahead
9:30pm, $4, or get a punchcard:
For submission guidelines and for more info, go to
at the arena or at the Crystal Pool.
$40/11 sessions. No wooden sticks.
www.fernwoodneighbourhood.ca/events
the Capital Region” a panel discussion
trust in another human being.” Jan 16
Trish Richards Susan Salvati
TUESDAYS! Beer and Burger – 100% Ground prime rib burger or nutburger and a Pint $7.95 1302 Gladstone
Page 8 | News and views from the heart of Fernwood | January 2007
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