villagevibeNews and views from the heart of Fernwood

June 2011

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in this issueBuzz

Bubble-man Bubble-mobbed page 3

Feature

FernFest and Fernwood Bites page 4

Mark Your Calendar:

Neighbors for Changepage 7

What would a weekend of revelry be with-out a fine family dinner on Sunday? It just wouldn’t be the same...so for the 2nd time in Fernwood’s history we are excited to announce that Fernwood Bites is back and ready to blast your taste-buds with the great-est food and drink sensations from across Southern Vancouver Island. Come and join the ‘Fernwood Family’ on Sunday June 26th as you and 300 of your neighbours feast on the tasty tidbits and drinks, snag some amazing deals at the silent auction, and have your ears caressed by the sultry smooth sounds of Jazz wafting through the square.

Tickets are on sale (and already 30% sold!) at the Cornerstone Cafe, or can be purchased online at www.fernwoodnrg.ca/fernwood-bites

Come join us in Fernwood for the weekend, and be prepared to be amazed!

FernFest is coming!

›› Joshua Schmidt & Patrick Pouponneau

A re you ready for the most incred-ible urban block party to ever grace the city of Victoria? Are

you ready for music, performances, danc-ers, kid’s activities, BBQ, bikes, artists, beer gardens, magic, sur-prises, spectacles, and the type of revelry that cannot be described with words? If not, get ready because the 16th annual FernFest, that magical weekend cir-cus extravaganza of fun, is coming!

FernFest began in 1995 and has been held every year since. Now, there are ever more participants from both inside and outside the neighbourhood, and Fern-Fest has become a major event on the island’s cultural calendar.

“This is one of my favourite parties of the year,” says Fernwood NRG Com-munications Coordinator Mila Czemerys. “Fernwood knows how to have a seriously good time.”

It all happens Friday June 24th, and Sat-urday June 25th. Things ramp-up on Friday evening at 5:00 p.m. when the opening ceremonies begin, followed by a selec-tion of Victoria’s finest musically inclined artists, the Modern Hair Vintage Flair Extravaganza put on by local residents , a DJ contest, and capped off by DJ Desunos and Micro Bongo Sound System! (If you haven’t heard these guys play, you HAVE to check them out.)

On Saturday, FernFest really heats up with 13 hours of awesomeness for all ages. Beginning with the Pancake breakfast (proudly hosted by the Fernwood Inn) at 9:30 a.m., things move into the square where a pantheon of phenomenal artists and performers will rock out Fernwood

Fernwood Square

www.fernwoodnrg.ca | 250.381.1552

JUNESaturday

JUNEFRIDAY +

Pancake Breakfast

BOUNCY CASTLEFERNWOOD ART STROLL

LIVE STAGE + LOCAL TALENT kidical mass - Bike Parade FaCE - PAINTING

bbq + beer garden

9am to 10pm

BUBBLES

24 255pm to 10pm

GSENior's TEa

2011

16th annual

bALL GAG N' cHAin gangmicro-bongo sound systemStoryteller

ARTisan Market

Saturday night: rocky mountain rebel music

The Great Giffoni

Fernwood Bites Back!

For more information:

For a full list of food and drink

presenters and to stay tuned in with all

the latest updates, join us on:

www.facebook.com/FernwoodBites

www.fernwoodnrg.ca/Fernwood-Bites

(literally too many to list here)! This year also marks the first FernFest ‘Artisan Mar-ket’ featuring the best local crafters, arti-sans, and community organizations. Also expect those family favourites, such as tales weaved by Shoshana the Storyteller, astounding magic by the Great Giffoni, a bumpin’ bouncy castle, a paintable VW Bug (provided by resident “Bubble-Man” Terry Wilson), and a few surprises as well! Do be advised, however, that after 6:30 p.m. FernFest goes PG13 as Ball Gag n’ Chain Gang whip us into a frenzy for our headliner act... drum roll please... Rocky Mountain Rebel Music!!

FernFest is coming... do you want to play?

(& Fernwood Bites too!)

For more information:For a full list of perfor-

mances and activities,

jump to Page 4 and 5.

To stay tuned in with all

the latest updates, join

us on:

www.facebook.com/

FernFest.FernwoodNRG

page 2 villagevibe June 2011 News and views from the heart of Fernwood

May 27th—Today, as Fernwood NRG is busy preparing for over 200 people to come out tomorrow to reclaim Fernwood’s util-ity poles and to beautify the neighbour-hood, we received word that a resident has delivered �yers to all the homes on Fernwood Road encouraging homeowners to “Mark your hydro pole with a ‘No Art-

-gram information from Victoria Together

it is perceived that no one cares about a neighbourhood, then people will tend to behave accordingly. �e result is a low -ered quality of life, more crime and even decreased property values.”

show up for anything, it is a sign that people care. In fact, pole painting is just a further deepening of the caring that Fern-wood residents, businesses and Fernwood NRG have shown for Fernwood over the last number of years.

When the Cornerstone Building was deteriorating in 2003 and 2004, and the apartments at Spring and Ridge were inhabited by drug dealers and their cus-tomers, there was a segment of people in the neighbourhood who believed that increased enforcement was the solution to the prob-

be sure, but did nothing to bring about an ethic of caring. Had no one taken initiative

to create positive change, Fernwood would most likely have persisted as a marginal and distressed neighbourhood with sporadic enforcement in response to complaints.

However, it is hard to argue with the facts of what has actually happened in Fernwood.

past two years that crime and police call outs have declined radically since 2005 (and at a faster rate than in the rest of Victoria, see April 2010 Village Vibe), and that property values have increased (and increased faster than in the rest of Victoria, see December 2009 Village Vibe). And though it is more

is a single fair-minded person who would argue that quality of life has declined in Fernwood since 2005.

Last year, Fernwood NRG worked with the Paint Box’s Emily Grav to support the creation of a mural on the wall on the south side of Fernwood Square (see Summer

2010, Village Vibe). Previously, the wall had been a regular site of tagging despite continued maintenance on the part of the School District. Since the creation of the mural, the wall has not been tagged once. �is has reduced maintenance costs for the School District, reduced “crime” in the form of vandalism, improved quality of life for residents and visitors who smile when they see the beautiful mural, and perhaps even increased property values.

�e joyous creation of art across a neighbourhood by over 200 people will scarcely create a perception “that no one cares about [the] neighbour-hood.” When citizens create their own resources and take responsibility for cre-ating positive change at a local level, it is an obvious sign that an ethic of caring has taken root. �e deeper the roots, the hardier and more beautiful the

Spend a few moments with the bubble man and you’ll notice he has the same kind of joyful wonder you might feel watching

in Fernwood, Terry the bubble man hasn’t lost his sense of magic.

Maybe that’s why Fernwood NRG decided to create a ‘bubble-mob’ in his

with as many bubbles as possible on Satur-day May 7th, at 12:00 p.m. Local businesses got on board too with “bubble friendly” signs and discounts for anyone with a bub-ble wand in their hand.

Terry, however, thought he was blow-ing bubbles for a music video being shot in

-eras, the people and the happy homespun tunes of local acoustic roots group “West My Friend” spilling over the sunlit crowd. Terry blew bubbles as promised and when the signal was given bubble blowers of all ages joined in. Terry looked pleased but said it wasn’t until organizer Josh Schmidt, made a verbal tribute to him that it began to land.

“And how did that feel?” I asked.“Oh, phenomenal,” he said, speaking

slowly, eyes wide, “Just wonderful, it will be a day to remember for the rest of my life.” It seems as though it’s still sinking

in. Terry isn’t the kind of guy who expects tributes. He’s the kind of guy who happily works for smiles.

When I asked him what motivates his bubble blowing, he described such an exchange of joy with people that I suggested there was a therapeutic quality to what he does. He responded enthusiastically.

“Absolutely, for me, and, I think, for them. People say I’ve made their day, kids smile when they’re in a car going by, people stop and say ‘hi.’ It’s a community gathering thing.” And, according to Terry the com-munity of Fernwood has a lot to do with it.

“It’s one of the best places I’ve ever

enthusiasm, colourful people, friendly open attitudes, beautiful old buildings, local owners, you see the same people and you get to know them, it’s magical. I get my energy from being with people,” he says, “and Fernwood gives me such a ton of energy! It brings out the best in me, and…” he adds with a gleeful grin, “…it brings out the bubbles! So thank you Fernwood.”

Back at ya’, bubble man!

Zoë Eakle is a therapist at Open Sky Counselling.

declarationof principles

& values

villagevibePublished by Fernwood Neighbourhood Resource Group

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!

Editorial Committee

Lee Herrin Stacey Curtis Joshua Schmidt Matt Takach

Founding Editor Lisa Helps

Contributors

Joshua Schmidt Kathleen Unfreed Lee Herrin Devorah StoneZoë Eakle Jacqueline RogersMila Czemerys Sarah ColwillMargaret HantiukPatrick Pouponneau

Art

Mila Czemerys Margaret HantiukSasha Romanovich Liz RubincamAlexandra Stephanson

Production Ellen Rooney

Contact us

1313 Gladstone Avenue Victoria, BC V8R 1R9T 778.410.2497 F 250.381.1509vibe@fernwoodnrg.cawww.villagevibe.ca

To enquire about advertising in the Village Vibe, please contact ads@fernwoodnrg.ca

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

buzz: Bubble-man bubble-mobbed

in 10 words or less —

Fernwood Dead Woodbubbles needlesenergy apathyenthusiasm boredomcolour drabnesspole painting vandalism

editorial:

An ethic of caring

Let there be... bubbles! Photo: Mila Czemerys

www.fernwoodnrg.ca June 2011 villagevibe page 3

›› Kathleen Unfreed

Have you been to the Fernwood Com-munity Centre lately? Are you interested in learning more about the classes it offers? The centre has always offered classes to the public, but in the past year they have increased in both number and variety. To get a flavour of what the Community Cen-tre offers, meet:

Ian Sirias, a teacher for three child-focused music classes on Tuesday morn-ings. Coming from a musical family, Ian has been involved in music his entire life. In his late teens, he became a serious stu-dent and since then has completed Grade 8 piano, an apprenticeship with the Mother Goose program, and will be entering Camosun College’s Music Foundations Program this fall. The classes Ian teaches focuses on young children and their abil-ity to learn and understand music. Baby Sings is a child-appropriate musical educa-tion fused with movement, drama, story-telling, and rhyme. In this class, children are exposed to a variety of instruments, including egg shakers and bells. Tot Sings expands the musical education by teach-ing all aspects of music including tempo, melody, rhythm, composition, and his-tory. The Family Music Experience class is a blend of child and parent education

and participation. Ian believes children can learn music easily at a young age and that learning music in a group setting allows children to be themselves while creating a collective atmosphere. His classes give chil-dren a strong musical foundation before they start school and, ideally, a deep appre-ciation for music when they are older.

Eric Osborne, who teaches Karate-do on Tuesday and Thursday nights. Eric holds a second degree (Ni Dan) black belt in Oki-

nawan Karate and has been practicing the art for nine years, six of which include teach-ing. He is a passionate teacher and instills in his students that Karate-do is both practice of an art form and a way of life. Eric started learning karate from his uncle after being inspired by his cousin’s enthusiasm for it. Class is very formal and structured. This for-mality shows respect to the ancient art form and the great people who have practiced it. Each class begins with a meditation. Eric

buzz:

Education creation at the Fernwood Community Centre

buzz: New leafs and old – Open Mic Friday nights Call Today For a Free Consult

Zoë Eakle, RPCRegistered Professional Counsellor

Fernwood, B.C.

250 370 0980www.openskycounselling.com

FERNWOOD’S REAL ESTATE EXPERT

For more information on buying and selling real estate

in Fernwood please visit ZamianSellsFernwood.com

250.514.1533 (direct)

Zamian Sells Fernwood

Looking for a GOOD TIME ?

Volunteer with Fernwood NRGinfo@fernwoodnrg.ca || 250.381.1552

›› Patrick Pouponneau

A fellow Fernwoodian, Lucky, once told me, “Art is the celebration of the shared human experience.” And art has flourished in our cherished Fernwood. It keeps us con-nected and allows us to express our most fragile selves to others. An organic display happens live at the Open Mic at Corner-stone Cafe every Friday night. Everyone who walks into the Cafe is immersed in that lush collaborative soundscape. The guitar’s chords, the singer’s notes, and the poet’s metaphors mingle with the smell of fresh ground espresso beans to create something truly special. The Open Mic is an important event here in the ‘hood, and it’s time to point some fingers.

Ruairi (Rory) Gallagher and Mark Ednie saw a need a few seasons ago. They recognized an opportunity floating out in the ether. Then, they took it upon them-selves to champion a venue where the community could come and shine for one another. And thus, Open Mic was created anew here at the Cornerstone. Starting anything worthwhile is never easy, but they persevered and were supported by our gor-geous community and Victoria at large. Epic times were enjoyed by all.

Yet, tricky time never slows, and Ruairi

and Mark have new challenges to face away from the Open Mic. So, for all the work you’ve done with such humility, dedica-tion, and class, let me speak on behalf of the grateful masses: Ruairi and Mark, thank you.

So once again dear Fernwood, we find ourselves on the horizon of a new day. New Cornerstone baristas Harry Siegel and Patrick Pouponneau are stepping up, and keeping the Open Mic burning like a stick of Nag Champa. From ‘St.Terry’s Bagel Burlesque’ to ‘Mama Sheila’s’ earthy goodness, we’re going to pilot this musical goodness right on through to the other side. As always, we welcome you with open hearts and open doors.

So, just because it’s you, here’s a break-down of what’s really good in the Fern-hood on these warm summer weekends.

Friday, 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Open Mic at the Cornerstone Cafe

Saturday, 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Local and International Bands at Fernwood Inn

Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.Brunch Beats at Stir It Up (in the Square)

Love light and so much more to come...

states this is done to purify the mind and build energy for class. The class then moves gradually from warm up to practicing both sequential movements (Kata) and free spar-ring. There are many benefits to practicing Karate-do; the main one being the ability to focus one’s energy and commit oneself completely to the task (movement) at hand. This ability carries over into every aspect of life. Although Eric is a teacher, he will always be a student of Karate-do as there is always more to learn and greater skills and knowledge to gain.

For more information or to register call 250-

381-1552 or email info@fernwoodnrg.ca.

Eric Osborne—focused & ready! Photo: Sasha Romanovich

page 4 villagevibe June 2011 News and views from the heart of Fernwood

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Emphasis is on sewing clothes they can wear!

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SUMMER 2011

CLASSES

July 4-8

July 11-15July 18-22July 25-29

Aug. 2-5 (four days)

Aug. 8-12Aug. 15-19Aug.22-26

Aug. 29-Sept. 2

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FALL CLASSES also av ailable

Time Activity/ Performer Details

5:00 p.m. Opening CeremonyStarting things off right, FernFest opens up with a gathering of positive intentions fused with tribal beats, setting the stage for the night ahead!

5:30 p.m. (as the) Crow fliesThe first group to rock out FernFest as the Beer Garden starts up... Enjoy their unique Indie Psychedelic-Rock sound as the evening ramps up.

6:30 p.m.Modern Hair - Vintage Flair Extravaganza!

The hippest, funkiest hair/fashion/performance show to ever grace Victoria! A fusion by Who Dyd Your Hair, Tonic Spa-tique, Mermaid Moon, Vintageous, and models of all ages set to blastin’ beats.

7:30 p.m. Mix Master Battle Royale The time has come for any and all who call themselves ‘DJ’ to prove their skill in this interactive contest. Who will win? Hear them play, than you decide....

8:30 p.m. DJ DesunosOh SNAP! DJ Desunos brings his movement inducing sound into the square to get things bumping. Bring your dancing shoes... it’s gonna get CRAZY!

9:30 p.m.Micro Bongo Sound System

If you haven’t heard MBSS’ incredible Latin rhythm and afrobeats inspired stylings, it’s time to check them out! Three guys, two sets of drums, and one synth... are you ready to get your voodoo on?

After-PartyNot done partying yet? We have arranged a special deal with Sunset Room to satisfy your thirst for fun! Roll on over and get a discount at the door by showing your FernFest stamp. And if you keep your eyes open, you may even get a ride to Sunset Room in a SPECIAL vehicle...

Friday June 24th

www.fernwoodnrg.ca June 2011 villagevibe page 5

Open until 10 pm Monday to Saturday

Stay up with us.Wednesday - Bluegrass Night

Friday - Open Mic Night

at the corner of Fernwood and Gladstone

Committed to Supporting Community Associations

Carole James, MLAVictoria • Beacon Hill

Community Office1084 Fort StreetVictoriaP: (250) 952-4211F: (250) 952-4214carole.james.mla@leg.bc.cawww.opposition.bc.ca

Time Activity/ Performer Details

9:30 a.m. Pancake BreakfastGet set for a full day of FernFest by starting things off right with a hearty breakfast, compliments of the Fernwood Inn!

10:00 a.m.Artisan Market- Open until 3:00 p.m. -

Done breaky? Head on through the square to find the FIRST EVER FernFest market! Locals will showcase their unique items and reveal the best finds around.

11:00 a.m. Kidical Mass – Bike ParadeIs it a bird? Is it a plane? NO... it’s a mass of kids on bicycles!!! Jump in on the fun, decorate your bikes, and ride into FernFest with style in fine eco-friendly fashion.

11:00 a.m.Kids Activity Centre- Open until 4:00 p.m. -

The best spot to entertain the little ones! Let loose with our bouncy castle, face painting, balloon twister, painting Terry the ‘Bubble-man’s classic VW Bug, Shoshana the Storyteller, and much much more...

12:00 p.m. The Sound DogsGet a little bit country and a little bit funky with the Sound Dogs and celebrate their first-ever CD release, right here at FernFest!

12:00 p.m.Beer Gardens- Open until 10:00 p.m. -

The Beer Gardens open for a second round of revelry... fresh from the keg thanks to Phillips Brewery. Both beer and spirits available.

1:00 p.m. Compassion GorillaGracing Fernwood with their foot-stomping gypsy funk tunes, get ready to blast-off as the main stage in Fernwood Square rockets to life!

1:00 p.m.BBQ - Open until 8:00 p.m. -

Get some fresh and delicious bites at the FernFest BBQ. Our cooks are whipping up something special just for you...

1:00 p.m.Senior’s High Tea- At the Cornerstone Cafe -

Pip-pip and cheerio! Join in on some good old fashioned fun at the Cornerstone Cafe. Scones, treats, tea, and good conversation are on the menu.

1:30 p.m. Shoshana the StorytellerLet Shoshana weave a tail or two for you and take you on a magical adventure. Find her at the Kids Activity centre.

2:00 p.m.The Great Gaffoni Magic Show

Can you say “abracadabra”? Once again the Great Gaffoni shall amaze us with magical spectacles sure to confound and delight you!

3:00 p.m. Double PlatinumAn eclectic blend of folk, rock, gypsy, and soul brought to you by four exuberant Fernwoodians who are ready to raise your vibrations to the roof!

4:00 p.m.Fernwoodians @ PlayOpen Mic

Get your taste of local talent from the four corners of Fernwood... they play, then you decide who will be crowned Open Mic royalty!

5:30 p.m. Canadian BeautyThese canny coverband masters will grace us with the finest selection of Neil Young songs as we search for our own ‘Heart of Gold’.

6:30 p.m. Be advised: FernFest goes PG13. We don’t mean to offend, but we just might!

7:00 p.m. Nik Tex

A smooth start to the evening of FernFest; Nicole Texidor & Manjinder Benning reveal an ethereal, poppy blend of jazz and folk tunes with a dash of electronic sounds and Indian instrumentation sure to delight the ear buds!

8:00 p.m. Ball Gag n’ Chain GangA 5-piece juggernaut of sound; with 12 instruments, including horns, lap steels, didgeridoo, and banjo, and 3 lead vocals. It’s more then just a sound, it’s a state of mind.

9:00 p.m.Rocky Mountain Rebel Music

“Life is an adventure, so smash down the walls!” Charged by Reggae, Rock, Funk, Dub, Dancehall, Punk and Worldbeat, Rocky Mountain Rebel Music delivers an infinitely danceable sound that defies comparison.

After-PartyNot done partying yet? We have arranged a special deal with Sunset Room to satisfy your thirst for fun! Roll on over and get a discount at the door by showing your FernFest stamp. And if you keep your eyes open, you may even get a ride to Sunset Room in a SPECIAL vehicle...

Saturday, June 25th

June 25th & 26th from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Take a scenic stroll through the myriad of Fernwood artists’ per-sonal studios, galleries, and shops. Woodworking, paintings in water-colour, acrylic, and oil, collage, printmaking, fused glass, mosa-ics, jewelry, kelp baskets, ceramics, women’s business suits and more! www.wonderfullifeinfernwood.ning.com

Fernwood Art Stroll

page 6 villagevibe June 2011 News and views from the heart of Fernwood

›› Margaret Hantiuk

As our society and its commerce become more mobile, foreign pests are becom-ing more prevalent. Bad bugs will attack plants when they become vulnerable, usu-ally from drought-stress, lack of nutrients or having been placed in the wrong spot. So the first line of defense is the easiest and least expensive: be preventive.

First of all, choose plants that are hardy and disease-resistant. Plant them properly and in the right spot—read the label and do your research: place it where it will get the sunlight or shade that it needs, make note of how much watering it needs and then follow through. Dig a large hole, plant at the cor-rect level, and mulch it well with compost. Keep amending your soil so that it drains well and has lots of live nutrients (no chemi-cals!). Prune carefully and properly, so there aren’t gaping wounds (close to the adjoining trunk, but not into the ‘collar’ for trees; and every few years cut back old wood down to the base to restore most shrubs). A healthy, happy plant will resist disease and pests; research shows that stressed plants emit a pheromone that signals pests and disease organisms that it is an easy target.

By law, we can’t use the poisonous chemicals now that we once employed to get rid of bad bugs and diseases that attack our plants. But there are still many good soap sprays that can be used and many

very effective live ‘beneficials’ that can now be purchased at most garden stores that, when released properly, will attack and feed on the problem pest. Know what you need and follow directions so that the good predatory bug is released at the right time and temperature. These are more effective, as most chemical sprays actually killed the beneficials bugs too, and were not healthy for humans, bees, birds and butterflies!

There are many more holistic interven-tions that prevent the bad bugs from com-pleting their lifecycle: tanglefoot collars on trees; hosing off aphids or the green mites in evergreens; spraying Trounce and other Safer’s soaps on foliage (both sides!); and dormant oil in the early spring. Prun-ing off diseased or host branches and hand-removal encourages birds, as they eat many bad bugs. Be involved and be a good steward!

›› Devorah Stone

Pandora Arts Collective Society (PACS) is blossoming! With the first sunny weather in weeks, PACS had a full house on May 17th for the launch of Art In Motion, a series of three community studio events sponsored by the Capital Regional District.

Stephanie Taggart led a full comple-ment of enthusiastic emergent artists at the first workshop. Stephanie, a PACS member, shared her Vivid Color and Image Transfers class. Participants’ comments included: “I was able to

try a new technique of painting and succeed,” “First chance to paint color on canvas and I found it exhilarating!” and “It was like being a kid.” As Steph-anie Taggart, first time art teacher said, “It was such a wonderful experience for me to teach this workshop to a group of people who expressed so much joy and enthusiasm in their painting.” Jenny Whitman, another PACS member led an equally successful workshop on lino-leum printmaking the following week.

Still to come is the third part of Art In Motion, the making of a collaborative

mobile during the Fernwood Art Stroll on June 25th and 26th. Everyone includ-ing children is welcome to drop in and contribute. Once completed, the hang-ing, moving work of art will be displayed in the little fernwood gallery. Fun materi-als will be available, or bring your own trinkets to balance on the beams. The little fernwood gallery run by PACS fea-tures the work of new and emerging art-ists, and will be exhibiting a group show for the Fernwood Art Stroll.

The Studio is self-directed, though a facilitator helps get you started. PACS runs three weekly studio times: Open Studio drop-in is on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:20 p.m. to 4:20 p.m. and the new Open Art Surge for youth ages 14 to 25 on Mondays from

3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Register now for Open Art Surge running in July. Regis-tration for the autumn starts September 6th. All activities are held at 1923 Fern-wood Road.

A non profit organization, PACS has a volun-

teer Board of Directors and is supported by

Studio participants, Society members, and

our community. In addition to the support of

the Fernwood Community Association, much

appreciated funding has come from the CRD,

the Province of British Columbia, and the Cen-

tre for Outreach Education. With our studio

thriving, PACS is a creative force in the heart of

Fernwood for everyone who wants to indulge

in art regardless of ability or experience. Come

join us! Contact: www.pandoraarts.ca or (250)

920-7227

garden gleanings: Plant pests and diseases

artist’s aside: The Flowering of Pandora Arts Collective Society

PATIO NOW OPEN1302 Gladstone 412-2001

the GOWER DESIGN GROUP - sustainable new homes & renovations - garden suite feasibility and design - energy retrofit consultations

Suite B2-1284 Gladstone Avenue www.gowerdesigngroup.com

Call Call for a free initial consultation 250 381 6666

Sheila Pratt and David Norman painting in the Studio. Photo: Mila Czemerys.

www.fernwoodnrg.ca June 2011 villagevibe page 7

For More Information Contact:Fernwood NRG1240 Gladstone Avenue Victoria, BC V8T 1G6(250) 381-1552 info@fernwoodnrg.cawww.fernwoodnrg.ca

Room rental opportunities also available.

Special eveNtSFernFest June 24th & 25th

Fernwood Bites June 26th

Kids Circus Yoga Camp July 4th to 8th

moNdayAwesome Mommies (DI) Ongoing 11:00am – 12:30pmLife Ring (DI) Ongoing 6:45pm – 8:00pmNuu Chah Nulth Drumming (DI) Ongoing 7:30pm – 10:00pm

TuesdayParent and Tot Play Group (DI) Ongoing 9:30am – 11:30pmBaby Sings (Reg) June 7th – Aug 2nd 9:30am – 10:00am Tot Sings (Reg) June 7th – Aug 2nd 10:00am – 10:30am Family Music Experience (Reg) June 7th – Aug 2nd 10:30am – 11:15amHelp I Have Kids Parenting Information Group (DI) Ongoing 12:30pm – 2:30pmFloor Hockey (DI) 7:00pm – 9:45 pmOkinawan Karate (Reg) June 7th – Aug 30th 7:00pm – 9:00pm

WedNesdayLaughter Yoga (DI/Reg) June 1st – June 29th 9:30am – 10:45am Parent and Babe Play Group (DI) Ongoing 9:30am – 11:30pm Best Babies (Reg) Ongoing 12:00pm – 3:00pm Good Food Box Pickup, every third Wednesday, 1:00pm – 5:30pm

ThursdayParent and Tot Playgroup (DI) Ongoing 9:30am – 11:30pmBest Babies (Reg) Ongoing 12:00pm – 3:00pmLaughter Yoga (DI/Reg) June 2nd – May 26th 7:00pm – 8:00pm Okinawan Karate (Reg) June 2nd – Aug 25th 7:00pm – 9:00pmVictoria Sport & Social Club (Closed Group) June 2nd – Sept 1st 7:30pm – 9:30pm

FridayAutumn Glow Seniors Group (DI) Ongoing 12:00pm – 3:30pmYouth Drop In (DI) Ongoing 6:00pm – 9:00pm

suNdayCanine Freestyle Dance (Reg) June 5th – June 19th 7:00pm – 8:00pm Canine Musical Freestyle & Dressage (Closed Group) June 5th – June 26th 8:00pm – 9:00pm

No classes will be held on July 1st (Canada Day), August 1st (BC Day)

(Reg) Registration Required (DI) Drop In

FerNWood NrG WiNTer ProGr amsJuNe – July 2011

›› Sarah Colwill

You’re invited to the third annual Neigh-bours for Change —an old-fashioned block party in the heart of Fernwood on Sunday, July 24th from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The celebration aims to bring together locals and friends from all over in an after-noon of music, food and fun.

The afternoon will have something for all ages. The Fernwood Inn hosts a deli-cious BBQ and beer garden. Live music by Party Band, face painting, a dunk tank and more will keep everyone entertained.

Be prepared to be impressed by a great silent auction, local food market, and other goodies. Funds raised from the event will go to the Roger Colwill Fund for the Environment with proceeds going to both Fernwood NRG and the Robert Bateman Centre, an art and environmental educa-tion center coming to Royal Roads Uni-versity.

Walk, bike or skip on over to this com-munity-oriented, family friendly event in the true spirit of Roger, who loved nothing more than a great street party where neigh-bours got to know each other!

Great for private functions; events; anniversaries; birthdays; holiday

celebrations; fundraisers; workshops; group meetings; sports;

craft and other fairs; exercise, music, or art classes

Gym: 167 person capacityStudio: 25 person capacityMulti-purpose Room: 30 person capacity

Contact us for availability and pricing!ph: 381-1552 // email: info@fernwoodnrg.ca

Room Rentals@ The Fernwood Community Center

1358 GLADSTONE AVE / 250 590 6612 / SOMAVICTORIA.CA

MASSAGE THERAPY PRIVATE PILATES ACUPUNCTURE

ONLINE BOOKING AVAILABLE!

MARGARET HANTIUKGARDEN DESIGNSUSTAINABLE GARDENING:Designs. Consulting. Handwork. Installs.

www.margarethantiuk.com

Email: mmhantiuk@shaw.caPhone: 250.595.1684Cell: 250.882.1929

buzz:

Studio 1284: A decade in the Square›› Jacqueline Rogers

When I opened Studio 1284 in the heart of Fernwood in 1999, Fernwood was a thriving neighbourhood with all the com-mercial spaces filled. I was so excited to be in such a unique community, a part of town I stumbled upon when I was walking my dogs just after I moved to Victoria from Ontario.

In 1999, I began with two styling chairs, one sink, one employee and one client. I was scared! Ron Spence, the owner of my building gave me lots of encouragement and reminded me that I had a service to offer that was needed in the neighborhood. I just needed to be patient. He was right. More than 11 years later, it has all worked out.

In 2006, I decided it was time to bring a day spa to the community and into Studio 1284. I couldn’t expand in the space that I was in so I moved two doors down and started renovating a new cutting room and added a day spa. Upon completion I had three styling chairs, added two spa rooms and a staff of six people!

I’ve seen Fernwood go through many changes over the years. It went from a thriving neighbourhood in 1999 to an area struggling to survive. The Cornerstone Building was basically boarded up and the George & Dragon needed a serious face-lift. It was hard to watch business after

business open and then close because they couldn’t make it through that time. Then the George & Dragon was sold to the Col-will family (now the Fernwood Inn), and Fernwood NRG did a major renovation of the Cornerstone and brought it back to life. Wow, it was all coming together again!

In 2010, it was time to expand again. I added a reception area! I was so happy, finally the dream I had of my business was complete. Adding the reception area allowed me to expand my cutting room to five chairs and hire four more people grow-ing Studio 1284 to a team of ten.

I would like to thank my amazing staff who are extremely talented, friendly and make everyone feel welcome when they walk through the door. Thanks also to the neighbourhood including the local busi-nesses that have a played a huge part in our success, supporting us throughout the years.

Studio 1284 offers a full service hair stu-dio including cuts, colours, highlight and up do’s for that special occasion. Want to get pampered? Come and see Kate in our day spa. We have manicures, pedicures, waxing, facials, eyebrow/eyelash tinting and relaxing massages. You also may see one of our shop dogs when you come in!

Jacqueline Rogers is the owner & founder of

Studio 1284.

mark your calendars:

Neighbours for Change

Stylist Chu-Chu gives a client some colour. Photo: Alexandra Stephanson.

Scene in Fernwood : Pole Painting Project

Photos: Liz Rubincam