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villagevibeJanuary 2007 : News and views from the heart of Fernwood
in this issueMeet the Cornerstone Café Baristas Page 3
Feature: UVic’s Barrier Free Learning Initiative Page 4
Gardening Crossword Puzzle Page 6
>> by Lisa Helps
On Th ursday December 14th, homeless
residents of Victoria and their allies
held a funeral procession from
Our Place on Johnson Street to the Council
Chambers at City Hall. Led by a bugle player
followed by one large black coffi n and four
smaller white ones, the march was held to mark
the deaths of those who have died on the streets
of Canadian cities.
Anti-poverty activist Rose Henry had
‘decorated’ the coffi ns with the names of the
dead. “Th e names on these coffi ns,” she said,
“these are people who have walked through these
doors (of Our Place).”
Organized by the Ad Hoc Committee to
End Homelessness, the march was originally
motivated by information that four people had
died on the streets of Victoria during the most
recent cold snap in late November. Although
these specifi c deaths could not be confi rmed,
the group decided to go ahead with the Walk
for the Dead anyway in order to draw Council’s
attention to the need for emergency shelter beds
for the rest of the winter.
“Th e most important thing we can
do right now,” said Ad Hoc Committee
member Philippe Lucas of the Vancouver
Island Compassion Society, “is to keep
people alive through this winter.”
Th e Ad Hoc Committee to End
Homelessness began meeting earlier this fall and
was galvanized on October 22nd – National
Housing Day – when members acted as the
“outer circle” for Craig Ballantyne who squatted
the Janion Building at 1614 Store Street to
protest the lack of aff ordable housing in Victoria.
Since then, the Committee has met every
Wednesday at 7:00pm at Silver Th reads and
has become a regular force in Th ursday’s City
Council meetings.
Aft er placing the coffi ns at the doors of City
Hall, the marchers shared a meal and waited for
the council meeting to begin.
When he addressed Council, Lucas referred
to the City’s “Extreme Weather Protocol”
adopted in December 2005, which sees a
temporary increase in what are called ‘stage
two’ shelter spaces when extreme weather
conditions are forecasted and all the regular
beds are full. Speaking on behalf of the Ad Hoc
Committee, he requested that the City lobby
BC Housing in order to guarantee funding so
that a minimum of stage two shelter spaces are
available seven days a week starting January
1st and running until at least March 1st of
every year. Second, Lucas demanded that if
BC Housing in unwilling to provide fi nancial
support, the city cover associated costs using
its Aff ordable Housing Trust Fund, thereby
guaranteeing extra shelter spaces for the rest of
– continued on page 4
Walk for the homeless dead Layton tours
CornerstoneDecember 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. Aft er 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!
Page 2 | News and views from the heart of Fernwood | January 2007 VillageVibe
It seems that no matter how many
buildings are unboarded, how many pubs
refurbished and how many coff ee 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 coff ee, 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.”
Th e 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 offi cer wandering
through his neighbour’s yard. “What’s
going on?” we asked. “Break in,” said the
offi cer, “in mid-aft ernoon.”
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
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,
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. Th is simple
act provides much needed income for
those who might resort to other means
to fi nd it. Th is 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 fi rst are
that notorious and dangerous ‘other’.
editorial : Neighbourhood Watch
Fernwood NRG update>> by Roberta Martell
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. Th anks to all our wonderful baristas for making
their way in to serve up great treats to packed houses!
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! Th anks to everyone
who signed letters of support, and to the Belfry for
their assistance. Watch for an article in the next Village
Vibe profi ling George and Linda, and previewing
the newest, hottest restaurant in the ‘hood!
Th e Community Centre is hopping with Monday
Community Days and Dinners, drop-in fl oor hockey,
drop-in badminton, free yoga, senior’s lunches and
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 fi elds 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 refl ect on his comprehensive
work as our neighbourhood moves forward.
All is still not well in the ‘hood’
It’s time to envision where it is we want to place our focus
declaration of principles and valuesWe 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 fi nancially
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!
VillageVibe January 2007 | www.fernwoodneighbourhood.ca | Page 3
views from the street : What are you thoughts and wishes for Fernwood this year?
“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!”
“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.”
“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 defi nitely on the right track.”
Meet the Cornerstone Café Baristas ...
Obie Wilkins Sarah Kirby Denise Yeo
Th e 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 .
My eyes open.Somewhere the sun lifts above the mountains,its joy spillsover 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 fl owers.The bees make it sensual,their kisses become honey.The ocean surges because of this shining.
Listen,everything is givenan open invitation to this loving!Our faces only frown when we forgetthat 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 tothat mysterious music.The way the sun gently slides into the sea.
We are here to know love.The roots of this lovepenetrate 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 nowa woman gathers water,fl owers unfold in the cool morning.The ocean, and our blood movein cadence with the moon.
Each nightwe lie down and swimin the great water.Each morningwe are resurrectedfresh and new.
Each and every line of this great uni-verse songis written in every cell and impulse ofthis tiny infi nite mirrorbody.
Told in laughter and tears.Each momenta fresh page...
Awake! by Mark Bamford
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.”
Th e 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.
“Th e 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 VillageVibe
>> by Annalee Lepp
On December 12th an information session was held
at the Fernwood Community Centre, which introduced
prospective students to two unique courses being off ered by the
University of Victoria: University 101, which just completed its second term,
and University 102 which will fi rst be off ered in January 2007. Both are free,
non-credit introductory university courses in the Humanities (101) and the
Social Sciences (102). Th ese courses are specifi cally 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.
Th e 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 off er an
enriching and empowering learning experience in an environment of respect
and acceptance. As one fi rst 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 certifi cate. Some graduates
took the stage and talked about the signifi cance of University 101 for their
lives; others spoke to me informally. Elizah told me that aft er experiencing
a brain injury in 2001, she felt that “her life shut down.” Participating in
the course, she said, contributed to “a renewed self-confi dence 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
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.”
feature : University of Victoria’s Barrier-Free Learning Initiative
Walk | fr om page 1
Ask about our monthly specials!
Jim talked about “his love of learning.”
VillageVibe January 2007 | www.fernwoodneighbourhood.ca | Page 5
University 101 and 102 are modeled on initiatives launched elsewhere.
Th e concept began with the Clemente Course on the Lower East Side
of Manhattan. Th is course has been running for over a decade and has
expanded to six American states. Closer to home, the University of British
Columbia launched Humanities 101 in 1998 and has extended its off erings
to include Science 101 and Writing 101. Kristin Semmens, a UVic History
instructor and co-chair of the University 101/102 Advisory Committee, was
involved in the Vancouver program and was instrumental in spearheading
this initiative at UVic.
Now having completed its second year, University 101 off ers two hours of
classes, two evenings a week over a twelve week period at UVic’s Downtown
campus on Government St. Following an intensive student orientation,
which includes a library and computer lab tour, students are introduced to a
new academic subject by a new volunteer university instructor each week. As
one graduate of University 101’s fi rst term stated, “Th is is an extraordinary
opportunity for people
who are marginalized
to have exposure
to intelligent and
comprehensive material.” Th e topics covered this fall ranged from critical
thinking, professional and creative writing, police ethics and philosophy, to
British Columbia Indigenous fi lm and history, Hitler and the Holocaust,
Canadian and art history, as well as English and Mexican literatures.
University 102 will move away from academic subjects traditionally taught
in the Humanities and will focus on the Social Sciences (anthropology,
psychology, political science, economics, sociology, geography, and
environmental studies).
Th e structure of each class varies depending on the style of the instructor,
but the preparation of assigned reading materials as well as active,
participatory, and discussion-based learning are common elements in
each evening session. Such a learning environment not only introduces
students to diverse academic subjects, but also gives them the space to bring
their experiences and knowledge to the classroom. When teaching the
Introduction to Critical Th inking week of the course, I was struck by the
incredible engagement, energy, passion, and dedication of the students;
each student came to both classes having read the assigned readings (which
doesn’t oft en happen in a regular university classroom), fully prepared to ask
probing questions, share their perspectives, and debate the ‘big’ issues. While
creating these learning opportunities is in part made possible by the eff orts
of each instructor, equally integral to this process is the assistance and
support provided by eight volunteer teaching assistants (many of whom are
UVic graduate students) who attend each class and facilitate small group
discussions/activities. Each class also begins with a warm meal, which gives
students, teaching assistants, and the instructor the opportunity to discuss
the reading materials, to ask questions about written or creative assignments,
or simply to socialize.
University 101 and 102 off ers additional resources. Each student receives
a UVic Distance Education Card which gives them access to the UVic
computer labs, the library, and on-line resources. Students also have access
to UVic’s Counselling Services during the course, which is designed to
provide support to students experiencing any personal challenges that might
be interfering with their ability to participate fully in the course. Other
resources include free bus tickets, childcare subsidies, notebooks, and pens.
Launching such a course requires a lot of energy and commitment.
Becky Cory, the project coordinator, works tirelessly mentoring students,
addressing their needs, and juggling the minute details involved in the
successful operation of the course as a whole as well as each class – from
holding information sessions for prospective students to fi nding restaurants
and community organizations who are willing to donate meals to
transporting those meals to the Downtown Campus. Behind the scenes,
the University 101/102 Advisory Committee (which includes a small team
of University 101 graduates, university instructors, community people,
and UVic’s Continuing Studies Division staff ) plans the course and the
curriculum, discusses the budget, and engages in fundraising initiatives.
University 101 and 102 are partially funded by the Faculty of Humanities
and the Faculty of Social Sciences. Andrew Rippin, the Dean of Humanities,
who spoke at the December 14th graduation ceremony, emphasized
that fi nancial and institutional support for University 101 boils down to
the principle of educational equity and making the university learning
more accessible. “Th is course is a small eff ort in this regard,” he said. Th e
underlying vision is to bring education resources to the larger community,
to provide university instructors with an opportunity to share their love of
knowledge beyond UVic classrooms, and to demonstrate the university’s
responsibility to the community. “Not only can we give to the community,”
Dean Rippin said, “it is also our responsibility to do so.” With both the
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 fi nancial contributor, please contact Becky Cory at 361-7014 or [email protected]. Or check out the website at www.uvic.ca/uni101
Carole James, MLAVictoria - Beacon Hill
Our Office is Open to Serve YouCommunity Office1084 Fort Street, VictoriaP: (250) 952-4211F: (250) [email protected]
Denise Savoie, MP
A Voice for Victoriain Ottawa
970 Blanshard Street363-3600www.denisesavoie.ca
Jillian emphasized that the course had “helped her look at things in new ways in a wide open space.”
Page 6 | News and views from the heart of Fernwood | January 2007 VillageVibe
>> by Margaret Hantiuk
As the Winter Solstice approaches, we all
await the return of light and warmth to our lives. So does
the garden.
Th is 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?
Th is 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?
Th ere 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. Th is 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. Th is can be done by hiring professionals,
or if you have less funds, by looking around at less
expensive (and oft en 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 Pacifi c) 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 uplift ing experience for the garden, the
gardener, and for all who are fortunate enough to catch a
glimpse of our creations.
garden gleanings : Renewal in the garden
Gardening is a learning experience, and this is a good time to assess how the garden is doing.
Fernwood General Gardening Crossword
Crossword Creator: Lee StempskiMy 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 fr om
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 Pacifi c; 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-fr ee 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.
>> 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 aft ernoon, 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 .
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 fi ft een 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. Th e 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.
Aft er 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. Th ere is a jazzy CD playing, and the sound of a wind
chime. Th ere is the aroma of soap and a string of small
lights soft ened with boa-like feathers. Strands of semi-
precious stones hang suspended, inviting touch, as do the
beautiful, fi nely-knit shawls, the wool felt toys, and the
one-of-a-kind purses. Th ere are vivid paintings, mosaic
mirrors, candles burning, and, behind the desk, a fresh
carrot cake just brought in by a staff member. Sue off ers
me a piece and explains the philosophy behind She Said.
“I want to support and promote local creativity. Th is
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. Th at 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
confi dence around their work. She also insists that the
artists and artisans set their own pricing and sees this
as tangible measure of self-esteem. Th en, she says, “I
call them to come get a cheque, and they fl ip out.” Th e
artist takes 70% of the sale price, a ratio that is very
generous comparatively. Th e 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. Th ough 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 coff ee or a She Said Martini at the new
Fernwood Inn.” Sue said it, so it must be true.
Th e She Said gallery off ers 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.
VillageVibe January 2007 | www.fernwoodneighbourhood.ca | Page 7
faces of fernwood : Sue Mulholland says it’s so.
Thank youFernwood’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!
WantedVolunteer to help with Saturday Plastic Recycling at
the Fernwood Community Centre. Your time is only
needed for two hours the second Saturday of every
month. Contact Sue at [email protected].
Home Based Businessesin FernwoodWe’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).
FreeNew-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
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 fi ll the Cafe with these creations.
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 HereYour 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.
fernwood marketplace
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 381-1552 ext 132 for more info
(Priority given based on need)
Ever playful, she is wearing a set of pink angel wings on her head, a gift from her staff.
TUESDAYS!
Beer and Burger – 100% Ground
prime rib burger or nutburger and a
Pint $7.95
1302 Gladstone 412-2001
what’s on in Fernwood
Make Yer Neighbourhood NicerTotal Plastics Recycling Day
Sat, Jan.13, Back of Fernwood
Community Centre (FCC) 10am - Noon.
(Every 2nd Sat of Month) Recycle
plastics of all kinds (Styrofoam packing,
soft plastics and bags, and ALL hard/
rigid plastics) plus old electronics.
By donation to cover transportation.
Community Kitchens
This popular program is now back!
Cooking on a budget? Start the New
Year cooking up a storm! Join others in
your community to plan for and make
fi ve nutritious and delicious meals once
a month. Save time and money and
meet some new recipes and neighbours.
Call #381-1552 ext 132 for more info.
Special EventsLand Marks: A Lecture Series on
Public Art
“Passions and Perspective: Public Art in
the Capital Region” a panel discussion
with presentations from artists Robert
Wise, Douglas Sent, and Linda
Stanbridge with Q & A to follow. Wed,
Jan. 24, 7:00pm, Victoria City Hall, Free!
Neighbourhood Emergency
Preparedness Program Workshops
Individual and Family Preparedness,
You may be on your own for up to 72
hours before help arrives. Learn how
to prepare. Mon, Jan. 22, Yates St.
Fire Hall (use Camosun St Entrance),
6:45 – 8:45pm, Free!
Free Skate
Free skating at the Memorial Centre
Arena (this month, with the Salmon
Kings), Sunday, Jan. 21, from 3:00
– 4:30pm. Free spaces limited to 300.
Pick up tickets up to two weeks ahead
at the arena or at the Crystal Pool.
Kids & FamiliesParent & Tot Playgroup
Ongoing Tuesdays & Thursdays. FCC
Gym, 9:30am - 11:30am, $1 per family,
snacks/crafts/circle time.
Rhythm Circle Time
Drop-in select Tuesdays 3:00 pm to
4:00 pm in the Multi-Purpose Room.
Free!
Mother Goose
Pre-register-10 weeks per session.
Tuesdays (Call 381-1552 Ext.22 to
register and for info) FCC Multi-Purpose
Room, 1:00pm - 2:30pm, Songs, rhymes
& stories-Free! ($2 for songbook)
Community Day Parent Group
Family directed and facilitated
playgroup! Ongoing Mondays, 9:30am
– 11:30am. Proposed activities for
January include Italian stone soup,
knitting/crocheting, felt puppet making,
and a parent education speaker.
FCC Gym, Free!
Youth, Adults & SeniorsDrop-in Badminton
Ages 12 to Adult, everyone welcome.
Ongoing Tuesdays, 5:30pm to 6:45pm,
FCC Gym, $2 per person or $5 for a
family of 3!
Free Internet and Computer Access
Complete your one-time registration and
then get online through the Community
Access Program. FCC Community
Room, 9:15am to 8:30pm, Monday to
Friday, except for 11:00am to 3:00pm
on Wednesdays. Free!
Drop-in Floorhockey
Co-ed Adult (18+), all equipment
provided. Ongoing Tuesdays and
Thursdays, FCC Gym, 7:00pm –
9:30pm, $4, or get a punchcard:
$40/11 sessions. No wooden sticks.
FREE Yoga!
(Vinyasa Flow): Tuesdays, 10:30am
– 12:30pm, in the FCC multi-purpose
room.
Holistic Health & Healing
Healing meditation based on Chinese
Five Elements: Fire, Earth, Metal, Water,
Wood, plus discussion of topics chosen
by group. Ongoing Mondays, FCC,
10:00–11:30am, Free!
Falun Gong
Peaceful meditation practice. Ongoing
Wednesdays, FCC, 5:00pm – 7:00pm,
everyone welcome, Free!
Fernwood Autumn Glow (55+)
Gentle exercise, lunch & activities;
Ongoing Fridays, FCC, 11:00am, $5.50
for lunch.
Music, Art, Theatre, and Entertainment“Honour” at the Belfry Theatre
A “frank, honest play that cannot fail
to move anyone who has ever put their
trust in another human being.” Jan 16
to Feb. 11, for tickets call 385-6815 or
head to www.belfry.bc.ca.
Victoria Bluegrass Assoc. Jam
Ongoing Tuesdays Orange Hall, 7:30
– 10:30pm, $2 to play, free to listen.
(Last Tuesday of month is open stage/
feature night; cost varies).
Lee Hamer
Canadian folksinger performs select
Weds at J.K. Do Forno Café in Fernwood
Square. 6:30pm – 8:30pm, free!
Live Music at Logan’s
For listings, go to www.loganspub.com
M T W Th F S S M T W Th F S S M T W Th F S S M T W Th F S S M T W
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Jan 2007
For submission guidelines and for more info, go to
www.fernwoodneighbourhood.ca/events
Page 8 | News and views from the heart of Fernwood | January 2007 VillageVibe
Published by Fernwood NRG
(Fernwood Neighbourhood
Resource Group)
1240 Gladstone Street
Victoria, BC V8T 1G6
T 250.381.1552
F 250.381.1509
villagevibe@fernwood
neighbourhood.ca
www.fernwoodneighbourhood.ca
Editor: Lisa Helps
Contributors:
Mark Bamford
Margaret Hantiuk
Annalee Lepp
Roberta Martell
Trish Richards
Susan Salvati
villagevibe