RIVER DISTRICT
GUIDE TO LIFE & STYLE IN THE RIVER DISTRICT
SUMMER EVENTS
NEIGHBOURHOOD GARDENS
LOVE FOR PETS
RIVER DISTRICT
L I V I N G
www.riverdistrictliving.ca
riverdistrictliving.ca@gmail.com @riverdistrictliving
@riverdistrictlivingmagazine @riverdistrictlivingrealestate
Land Acknowledgement
We recognize and acknowledge that River District is situated on the unceded traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.
Contributing Photographers / Artists
Celan Bouillet
Cassandra Russell @raisethewoofphotography
Nhu Van Chung
Barbara Borchardt
Jillian Lunde
Cover Art
Mural by Celan Bouillet
Adi Kabazo
Katherine Hall Wesgroup
Shauna Javerina
Jeremy Javerina
CASSANDRA RUSSELL
Hunter and Henry Co -
Jewellery and Creations
BARBARA BORCHARDT
Green Street Gardens
Contributing Writers
Celan Bouillet
Cassandra Russell Arnie Chang
Barbara Borchardt
Editor-in-Chief & Content Director
Katherine Hall
Features
CELAN BOUILLET
Mixed Media Painter & Installation Artist
“A Love Letter to the Moon”
SHAUNA & JEREMY JAVERINA
Proud Pawrents of Buko
Adi Kabazo
Katherine Hall
Shauna Javerina
Jeremy Javerina
Advertising Sales
Elijah Hess
ARNIE CHANG
Killarney Community Centre
Outdoor Summer Concert Series
ADI KABAZO
PetParker
Love for River District
What we love about River District? Its sense of community stands out We love walking our dog Gus for our morning walks and chatting with all the people in this great neighbourhood! What other area would you say hello to every person you pass by? Not many. We also love how pet friendly River District is.
-
Arnie
,
Killarney
Community Centre
While we live just outside of the area in Burnaby, we find ourselves visiting frequently by walking or biking the trails from Foreshore Park to River District on nice days, doing our "walks" inside Everything Wine on rainy days (2 birds, 1 stone!), and enjoying the dog-friendly patio and great food, drinks, and service at Local. The neighbourhood is nice, lively, and friendly and has everything you need. We're sure you'll see us around often!
- Shauna & Jeremy , Buko’s Pawrents
My partner and I enjoy visiting River District with our Goldendoodle Sophie for a stroll along the Fraser River. Our favourites include a rest on the pier for a look at the boats (Sophie's more interested in the birds) and sitting at the picnic table for a burger from Romer's
- Adi , PetParker
This was my first time painting a mural and I felt so supported by the River District community. The entire time I was painting my mural, River District neighbours would stop by to chat about the Mural Festival, cheer me on, or give me a thumbs up while riding by on a bike. There is such a good energy in this community and it truly feels like a little retreat by the river I love how active the River District community is and the accessibility of the recreational paths by the water. Painting a mural in the River District introduced me to a new favourite part of town!
- Celan , Mixed Media Painter & Installation Artist
The things I like most about living in the River District is the small community feel and vibe we have within the big city of Vancouver. So many great food options. We are close to nature and the river and there’s so many dogs!
- Cassandra , Hunter and Henry CoJewellery and Creations!
I moved to Fraser Pointe 1 at 3033 East Kent Avenue and Kerr in 1991. It was then one of the first rental towers built in the Fraserlands area. I stayed along the river because of the natural beauty and the sense of community. The walking paths and trails provide so much opportunity for connection among residents of River District I feel these natural spaces go a long way to fostering community and people’s connection to this unique part of Vancouver that I’m so proud to call home.
- Barbara , Green Street Gardener
Dear Neighbours
Summer is in bloom in River District, and with it, many fun community activities for neighbours and friends of River District alike!
Our much-anticipated street party celebration Riverside Street Vibe Festival takes place in August, and just up the street at the Killarney Community Centre, the Outdoor Summer Concert Series is in full swing.
Food trucks are visiting River District Town Centre, and our local restaurant patios are bringing people together for summer fun
It is the perfect time to walk along the Fraser River and take in the beauty of local murals and watch this year’s Vancouver Mural Festival artists add their masterpieces to our open air gallery. Enjoy the curated gardens from the Green Streets gardeners which enhance the natural beauty of our neighbourhood.
August is certainly a month where our community comes alive, and we hope you are having an amazing summer so far!
Sincerely,
KatherineHall
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Mural Artist Spotlight:
l B ll t
Celan Bouillet is a mixed media painter and installation artist currently based in Vancouver, BC. Her upbringing in the American South influenced her love of spinning a good tale, textiles, and sublime landscapes. Bouillet received her BFA from the University of Georgia and completed her MFA at the Maryland Institute College of Art Bouillet is a Vermont Studio Center Fellow, a two time recipient of the Houston Artist Association Individual Artist Grant, and has work in permanent collections across the US including at the Bush Intercontinental Airport and MD Anderson
Website: www.celanbouillet.com
Email: celan@celanbouillet.com
MURAL STATEMENT
“A Love Letter to the Moon” speaks of our connection to the natural world. Larger than life dancing blooms reach towards the moon with longing and joy. The arched doorway acts as a portal to the sea and to the distant crescent moon lending her light to the water below The moon has acted as a connector across the millennia becoming a timeless symbol of serenity, feminine energy, the power of nature, and faraway dreams. Our enchantment with the moon continues today, with humans looking to the moon as a beacon and as a gateway to the larger unknowns of the universe. The mural plays into our idealization of the natural world by using subtle patterning and harmonious color combinations, creating a moment of tranquility for viewers. As a viewer passes in front of the mural, they too become a part of the larger sublime landscape for a moment in time, but like the blooms, a distance still remains between themselves and the distant moon
“A Love Letter to the Moon” by Celan Bouillet
Hunter and Henry CoJewellery & Creations
WRITTEN BY CASSANDRA RUSSELL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSANDRA RUSSELL
Hi, I’m Cassandra, the solo creator, crafter, dreamer and very enthusiastic dog lady behind Hunter and Henry Co - Jewellery and Creations! Named after my 2 cu protective Chihuahua crosses Henry! I love colour and sparkles and things that make people… and What started with making keycha regular day job workload dec turned into a world of creatio sometimes a little trashy but al what I do. I like to appeal to all ag price points. I love people to hav and be included! And also, be h through life with confidence and sparkle and joy wherever you go… dog by your side hopefully
I use mostly UV resin to create statement earrings, loud, glittery and fun! But I also create smaller more delicate pieces using shells and more natural elements. I make earrings, rings, necklaces, large or dainty, bright or neutral. I cannot create fast enough! Of course, I can’t forget about the core of my business and what inspires me to do what I do… my dogs. So, jewellery for the fur babies is a must! I do dog tags both custom or standard with initial. Also, a dog tag BFF combo where the fur parent gets a matching tag for their keys!
When not working with resin I do a lot of bead work. Hand beaded hoop earrings, bracelets, phone wristlets, phone charms etc.
I don’t think that jewellery and shiny, sparkly things should just be limited to yourself and your pets. I also make sun catchers both for home and car to cast flecks of light and rainbows wherever you go. Walk
omize almost anything you want, if it, I want to create it! Most of my ders are personalized keychains and ed charm necklaces. Both are so fun and I love my happy customers. I inless steel for all chains, studs and rnish and rust resistant. So, both old (and furry!) can hopefully wear have the pleasure of crafting!
on social media where I post where en I’m vendor at a market or an d where I’ll try and post more often creating as it happens!
h love in River District henryco creations
Killarney Community Centre Outdoor Summer Concert Series
WRITTEN BY ARNIE CHANG ARTWORK BY NHU VAN CHUNG
The 2nd annual Killarney Outdoor Summer Concert Series at the Killarney Community Centre promises to be a highlight of your summer, offering an exciting lineup of talented musicians and a vibrant community atmosphere. Here’s why you should mark your calendar for these Thursday night concerts from July 11th to August 22nd:
Community Spirit and Involvement
Organized by the Killarney Community Centre Society (KCCS), these concerts are a testament to the Society’s dedication to providing enriching experiences for its residents. The KCCS, composed of passionate local volunteers, strives to foster community growth by managing facilities, funding programs, and organizing events like the Summer Concert Series By attending these concerts, you’re not just enjoying music; you’re supporting your community and its initiatives.
Diverse Musical Offerings
The lineup features a diverse array of musical genres and talents, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From the soulful sounds of Nette and Niki Kennedy’s folk-pop fusion to the energetic performances of Sally and the Melo Hearts Trio and The R&B Conspiracy, each concert promises a unique musical experience. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock with The Rockiteers or nostalgic hits from Dan Hare, the series celebrates music in its various forms, appealing to a broad audience.
Talent and Entertainment
These concerts aren’t just about music they’re about entertainment and enjoyment. Experience the raw talent of emerging artists like Nette, who’s already making waves in the music industry, or indulge in the nostalgia brought by performers like Dan Hare, known for their impeccable renditions of classic hits Each act is carefully selected to ensure a memorable evening under the summer sky.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
The Killarney Community Centre provides a safe and welcoming environment for families and individuals of all ages. The outdoor setting allows you to relax on the grass, enjoy a picnic, and let the music uplift your spirits It’s a perfect opportunity to bond with family and friends while immersing yourself in the cultural fabric of your community.
Culinary Delights
Enhancing your concert experience is Sixty2Sixty Eats, the on-site concession offering delicious food and beverages. Whether you crave a savory snack, a refreshing drink, or a sweet treat, Sixty2Sixty Eats ensures you’re well-fed and hydrated throughout the concerts.
Free Admission
Best of all, the Summer Concert Series is completely free of charge. This accessibility reflects the KCCS’s commitment to showcasing various genres of music entertainers available to everyone in the community. Whether you’re a regular attendee or a newcomer, you can enjoy world-class performances without worrying about ticket costs.
Support Local Artists
By attending these concerts, you’re not only supporting the Killarney Community Centre but also local artists who contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of Vancouver. Showcasing both established performers and rising stars, the series encourages appreciation for local talent and creativity
In conclusion, the Killarney Outdoor Summer Concert Series at the Killarney Community Centre promises an unforgettable summer experience filled with music, community spirit, and entertainment for all. Join us every Thursday night from July 11th to August 22nd to celebrate the best of local music and community togetherness under the open sky. Mark your calendars, bring your friends and family, and immerse yourself in the magic of live music in the heart of Killarney. We look forward to welcoming you to a summer of rhythm, harmony, and community joy!
Facebook: Killarney Community Centre
Instagram: @killarneycommunitycentre
Twitter/X: @Killarneycc
Website: https://killarneycentre.ca/ (Brand new website coming October, 2024)
Green Street Gardens of River District
WRITTEN BY BARBARA BORCHARDT
PHOTOS BY BARBARA BORCHARDT & JILLIAN LUNDE
Volunteer Gardeners Beautify Our Local Spaces
Have you noticed some of the beautiful flowers blooming along the pathway on East Kent Avenue North from Kerr Street to Elliott Street? If you carry on your travels West beyond Elliott Street to the entrance of Gladstone Park, you’ll see more gardens with blooms along the walk/bike pathway that is adjacent to the Fraser River. All the gardens you see on this long stretch have been created and are maintained by Green Street volunteer gardeners. They work in collaboration with the City of Vancouver to beautify City owned spaces that also enhance the biodiversity of our local green spaces.
If you are unfamiliar with Green Streets, it is a program hosted by the City of Vancouver and now in its 20th year. The Green Streets program invites Vancouver residents to adopt a space in their neighbourhood to beautify. It can be the boulevard strip in front of your home, a corner bulge, a traffic circle or other unique City space in your neighbourhood You may have seen the purple and white signs in or near the gardens in the Fraserlands area stating that “This street garden is sponsored by a local resident that tends to it as part of the Green Streets Program.” There are currently hundreds of Green Street gardens like these all around Vancouver.
For those of us that live adjacent to the Fraser River below Marine Drive, many of us have walked the many pathways adjacent to the river as well as those along East Kent Avenue North and South. When I moved to Fraser Point 1 in 1991, the walk/cycle path on East Kent Avenue North from Kerr Street to Elliott Street was new. There was a clear swath of gravel that went up and down this pathway next to the rail line There was ample room for people to walk and cycle side by side along this path As time went on, vegetation grew such that over time it started to take over the pathway to the point that it only left a narrow walking space for pedestrians and cyclists.
When and how did Green Street gardens begin in Fraserlands? It began with one person, Jillian Lunde. In 2009, Jillian, a then local resident of West Fraserlands, was tired of seeing a sea of weeds taking over the path in front of where she lived near Riverfront Park One day she decided she was going to do something about it, so she went out and started pulling weeds It is an understatement to say there were some well established weeds on this stretch which made for some physical work. Jillian only lasted one hour that first day, but she persisted and little by little she cleared the space she could see from her window across the street. Jillian then decided to plant some flowers along the fence line that runs along East Kent Avenue North. Another resident, Mima Wilson, who lived in a neighbouring building, noticed what a difference it made to the pathway, so she too cleared a space and created a lovely garden along the pathway at the foot of Jellicoe Street. More residents carried on the gardening theme both East and West of Jillian's initial garden space. If you walk along East Kent Avenue North, you can’t miss the sea of tall hollyhocks that bloom in July at the foot of Jellicoe Street
From those early beginnings, the Fraserlands Community Gardening Group was formed. They sought funding through various grants as well as benefiting from donations from a local garden club. Funds were used to host numerous work parties to clear the many established weeds. Over the years, other Green Street Gardeners joined the original gardeners taking on a section of the path to maintain and cultivate along East Kent North to Elliott Street including Jane White who tends to gardens at the foot of Elliott Street. When you travel West on East Kent Avenue North and cross the tracks at Gladstone Park on East Kent Avenue South, you land in an area called Tugboat Landing There you will find several G Street Gardens created by Barbara Borchardt, E Hannah, Joyce Connors and other area residents focus for many of the gardeners is featuring dro tolerant plants that create a space for all pollin and overall improve the biodiversity in our bea space adjacent to the Fraser River.
Why are Green Street gardens important to the community?
Not only are the flowering plants and shrubs beautiful, as is seeing biodiversity in action, but these gardens build pride and place in community and provide a point of connection between people and a talking point. Are you interested in being a Green Street Gardener? If you live in Fraserlands, there are some Green Street garden spaces currently available, or maybe you have some time to help with weeding, or wish to create your own Green Street garden. You can find more information about Green Street Gardens at the City of Vancouver’s website or email them directly at green.streets@vancouver.ca.
We’dlovetohearfromyou. UsethePetParkerapptorequesta locationforustoaddtothemap (petparker.ca/vancouver)oreven bettertellyourfavouritestorethat theyshouldofferPetParker.
P e his Sao Paulo home He needed some items from a nearby supermarket but didn't want to take the dogs home first So, he tied them outside and went in Minutes later, the store's PA system announced that some dogs were loose outside Georges quickly retrieved his dogs, prompting him to think, "There has to be a better way "
Within weeks, Georges built a prototype of a pet safety enclosure. Realizing its potential, he founded a company to improve life for pets and their owners, allowing them more time together. Over five years, with innovations like sensors, ventilation, and a webcam, the PetParker evolved into a sophisticated pet safety and hospitality solution used by grocery stores, malls, and pharmacies across Brazil.
PetParker aims to give pet owners flexibility and accessibility akin to car, bike, and scooter-sharing services. Today, PetParker is the largest network of connected pet safety and hospitality stations, with over 100,000 pet stays recorded to date. Its free, appoperated stations offer pet parents more opportunities to spend quality time with their pets.
Adi Kabazo, a local entrepreneur and animal lover, discovered PetParker through a friend's Facebook post. As a new pet parent to a Goldendoodle, Adi understood the challenges of urban pet ownership. Post-COVID-19, estimates show over a third of Canadian households have dogs. Recognizing the strong bonds between pets and owners, Adi brought PetParker to Canada.
Since late 2023, over twenty PetParker stations have been installed in Metro Vancouver at grocery stores like s, Stong’s Market, and Urban Fare, as well s including shopping centers and Granville ands of pet parents now benefit from the d peace of mind PetParker provides. re stopping at the store after the dog park rands for hours, PetParker offers a safe tying your pet to a pole or leaving them in
provided as a subscription service to d locations that seek to provide a safe and experience for all visitors in their educing unwanted incidents or animaltions.
Our vision is to see pet safety and hospitality becoming available in all locations where people seek to go with their pets including retail, hospitality, community centres, public libraries and more.
To learn more about PetParker visit petparker.ca or download the app to start using this free service at a location near you.
For a complete list of frequently asked questions please visit petparker.ca/petowners#faqs
How much does it cost to use PetParker? How do you make money?
Funding for all aspects of the equipment and the service is covered by the location who seeks to improve accessibility to pet owners and improve customer and guest experiences. This way PetParker is currently provided as a free service to the public. For more information on offering this amenity at your property or business, or to sponsor the service by advertising on the PetParker please visit petparker ca/business
How long can I leave my pet inside a PetParker?
We allow each session to be no longer than 1 hour, but we obviously don’t open it if the time is up Based on our experience in Canada from over 2,000 sessions these are as short as 3 minutes and are typically between 15-20 minutes long
My pet is not kennel trained, how will I get them to use it?
You should make sure your pet is comfortable getting inside and avoid pushing them or you risk creating a traumatic experience and losing their trust. Gradually making them comfortable in entering the station using treats and then keeping the sessions short with your presence is the best approach. For training advice we recommend reaching out to Holly Chen at Honourable Hound (https://honourablehound.ca/) who has been advising us on these issues.
How does PetParker deal with warm or cold weather?
Most PetParker stations are located indoors or protected as much as possible from the elements such as rain and sun.
PetParker stations are temperature monitored and ventilated ensuring conditions are safe and that there’s always a supply of fresh air.
The use of the service is only available when the sensed temperature is within the safe range, otherwise the app will not let you start a session. During a session you can monitor the elapsed time, the temperature and view your pet using the camera.
How do you deal with an animal that went to the bathroom? How is PetParker cleaned?
Users are responsible to ensure their pets are housebroken before using the service.
In our experience these situations are very uncommon as dogs don’t typically go to the bathroom where they sit or lie.
The PetParker also has a raised floor to handle any accidents and users are encouraged to provide feedback on cleanliness through the app after every session. If you see a PetParker station that needs attention, please let us know so we can disable until it’s been cleaned.
We clean and sanitize the PetParkers no less than once a week, more frequently if usage is high.
t catch a
How do you ensure pets don’ disease from staying inside a PetParker?
First, we require all users to commit to keeping their pets vaccinated and avoid using the service if their animal is sick. While this is a trust-based system, we are considering other mechanisms to obtain vaccination records from regular users.
We use veterinary grade materials to sanitize the stations regularly and deal with any common diseases. One reason we do not supply a water dish is to avoid the chance of kennel cough.
Finally, we receive updates from a veterinarian on our advisory board on any contagion in the community.
My pet is inside, can anyone else open the PetParker or steal my pet?
No, only the user who started the session can open the door using the app.
In the event that the door needs to be opened, whether you lost your phone, or it ran out of charge, or if an animal is in distress, we can open the PetParker remotely
The location also has a key in order to open the door in the event of a power outage or other unforeseen event.
How can I get assistance during a session or emergency?
You can reach out to us through the chat function in the app (uses WhatsApp) or by calling our phone number listed on the PetParker stations.
I have more questions, who should I contact?
Feel free to contact us at woof@petparker ca
PetParker
LinkedIn: PetParker Canada
Hello!Didyou bringcheese?
Pet of the Month
BY SHAUNA & JEREMY JAVERINA
PHOTOS BY SHAUNA & JEREMY JAVERINA
Meet Buko, our 4-year-old black and tan mini dachshund with tiger paws and a mustache like Salvadore Dali. Her name means 'coconut’ in Tagalog, but she goes by many nicknames such as Bubs, Bubsy, GG (good girl) Bubs, and our favourite, "Um, excuse me Miss."
Buko has many qualities - on the one hand, she is silly, loving, affectionate, and cuddly, but on the other hand, she can be sassy, judgmental, demanding for treats, and very vocal whenever she senses a "threat" (people waiting to cross the street towards us when we're in the car, our neighbours in their own home that she can see from our window, anyone that keeps eye contact with her for too long, the doorbell ringing, etc.).
Her favourite food is cheese, and her favourite person is her Lola (grandma). She has a best friend named Sadie, who she appears to be indifferent towards, but will protect at all costs. She also reminds you at 4:45PM that it's dinner time, even though dinner is at 5 - and if you forget to give her a Greenie while you're eating your dinner, she will absolutely let you know.
Buko loves a good adventure and new places to explore She's sniffed her way through the Lower Mainland, Sunshine Coast, Squamish and Whistler, Kelowna, Washington, Oregon, and Northern California If we can't take her with us on a vacation, we always make sure to bring her back a souvenir from the places we've visited, like a Stetson from Austin, TX or a Paddington Bear stuffie from the UK.
A regular day at home for the Bubs involves eating, sleeping, playing fetch with her toys, and a walk that wouldn't be complete without kicking up some dirt and rolling in dead worms. She's usually the last to get up in the morning and the first one to fall asleep at night. She gets to see her friends twice a week at doggie daycare, and on the weekends, we go for long walks, bike rides, or beach visits, and usually end the day at a dog-friendly patio.
This is how we came to love the River District. While we live just outside of the area in Burnaby, we find ourselves visiting frequently by walking or biking the trails from Foreshore Park to River District on nice days, doing our "walks" inside Everything Wine on rainy days (2 birds, 1 stone!), and enjoying the dogfriendly patio and great food, drinks, and service at Local. The neighbourhood is nice, lively, and friendly and has everything you need. We're sure you'll see us around often, and if you do - bring cheese :)
Follow Buko:
To advertise here please contact: riverdistrictlivingmagazine@gmail.com (some exclusions apply)
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Our Annual UNDER THE STARS”
our outdoor movie will be “The Sandlot”! It’s an a community and to pause for a moment to be place we all live in. The river, the sun, and all that make this experience another one for the memory books. Remember to invite a neighbour over for dinner that day and walk down to watch the movie together.
Sat, August 10th, 2024
7 – 11 p.m.
Riverfront Park
2723 Kent Ave SE
7 p.m. Claim your spot
Come early and indulge in a delightful treat!
MLA George Chow's constituency office will be handing out free Freezies at the event from 7pm (while supplies last).
8:30 p.m. Time to “shake, shake, shake!”
Let’s all get up and move a bit before we start the movie.
8:45 p.m. Movie starts
11 p.m. Movie ends
