RIVER DISTRICT
GUIDE TO LIFE & STYLE IN THE RIVER DISTRICT
LOCAL ART & MUSIC
LOCAL CHILDREN’S AUTHOR FOSTERING & PETS
RIVER DISTRICT
L I V I N G
www.riverdistrictliving.ca
riverdistrictliving.ca@gmail.com
@riverdistrictlivingmagazine
@riverdistrictliving
@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
Extra Crunchy
Ana Santiago
Mari Kamache
Frederico “Dyke” Tapnio
Cover Art
Mural by Extra Crunchy
Kim Killick
Katherine Hall
Cristina Arana
Arly Lopez
ANA SANTIAGO & MARI KAMACHE
Author & Illustrator
One side or the other
Contributing Writers
Extra Crunchy
Ana Santiago
Frederico “Dyke” Tapnio
Editor-in-Chief & Content Director
Katherine Hall
Features
EXTRA CRUNCHY
Artists & Muralists "Spectrum of Emotions"
FREDERICO “DYKE” TAPNIO
Local Singer, Songwriter & Musician
Kim Killick
Katherine Hall
Cristina Arana
Arly Lopez
Advertising Sales
Katherine Hall
CRISTINA ARANA & ARLY LOPEZ
Proud Pawrents of Lola
KIM KILLICK
Local Foster Parent for rescued cats & dogs
Love for River District
What do we love most about River District?
The obvious answer to this is the doggies! And their owners of course! During the days we painted in the River District we got to know a few regulars walking by, it was an unstoppable temptation to take a break from painting and to snap some photos with them.
- Extra Crunchy, Artists & Muralists
I’ve never been much of a “big city person” and it took quite a few years after I moved to Vancouver to find a pet friendly apartment building, in an area that felt like an actual neighbourhood, while still allowing for a shorter commute than my more rural colleagues. The River District is so amazingwhether it’s finding a dog hiker that can take Mala for off leash adventures nearby with her neighbourhood pup friends, a trainer, a groomer, agility lessons, scent work lessons, and a retailer that was able to walk us through switching to raw food, it’s so dog friendly here! I’d love to one day own a doggy daycare in the area!
- Kim, Pet Foster Parent
Inspiration for my music comes from everything that surrounds me in River District: happiness, environment, animals, flowers, people and dogs. Living in the beautiful surroundings of River District, where people congregate with their dogs which I love dearly, inspired me to write a song called “River District Dogs.”
- Fred , Singer & Songwriter
When not writing, Ana is often around the neighbourhood chasing after her little girl, who zips around on her fast blue scooter, throwing rocks in the river and playing in the fairy hut. It has been four years since her family joined the community, and this hidden gem in Vancouver has become one of her favourite places to be.
- Ana, Children’s Author
We love living in River District, especially as dog owners Lola enjoys long riverside walks, and we also love strolling through the neighbourhood, where shops are just around the corner. It’s a peaceful place with friendly faces. There's always someone to greet or a new friend to meet. It truly feels like home for us and Lola
- Cristina & Arly , Proud Pawrents ot Lola
Dear Neighbours
Thank you for your patience as we took a short break to get all our ducks in a row for 2025 As we step into this new time frame, we’re excited to continue to share the stories that highlight the unique spirit of our vibrant and growing community along the Fraser River.
In this issue, we dive into the incredible stories of local River District residents and share their unique talents and passions and hear their personal connections to our community. Our residents are an integral part of what makes this place truly special.
In Town Centre, we are beginning to welcome the first of a wave of new neighbours and some exciting additions to our business community as well! As River District continues to grow and evolve, we remain committed to fostering a sense of community and belonging Our goal is to celebrate the stories that make the River District more than just a place it’s our community and thrives on connection, creativity, and a shared love for these beautiful surroundings.
We hope this issue inspires you to explore and engage with the River District in new ways. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us in this issue and throughout the year.
Sincerely,
KatherineHall
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Contact us for info, features, advertising riverdistrictlivingmagazine@gmail.com
Mural Artist Spotlight:
WORDING AND ARTWORK BY EXTRA CRUNCHY
ARTIST BIO
Extra Crunchy is a dynamic duo dedicated to crafting art that serves as a portal to other worlds. We aspire to portray elements of spirituality in a way that is both clear and visually striking We see our art as a tool to describe the unexplained by breaking down complex spiritual or scientific themes into colours and shapes in a harmonious, intuitive way We aim to create works that welcome viewers to reflect and reconnect with their inner selves
Our journey started nine years ago when we first adopted the nomadic minimalist lifestyle, traveling across the globe to participate in music and art festivals, carrying with us only two backpacks and two small suitcases. We began by painting murals in the Caribbean and continued showcasing our work at festivals in Europe and South America, leaving trails of turquoise and purple behind us. Each destination brings fresh ideas and challenges. Painting in extreme weather or carrying heavy buckets of paint in the rain is all worth it for the final piece of art sealed in a photo.
Using AR and VR tools, we are currently exploring ways to extend our visual language into other dimensions, while promoting wellness in projects like Float VR and interactive murals such as Spectrum of Emotions
We see our art as a tool to describe the unexplained by breaking down complex spiritual or scientific themes into colours and shapes in a harmonious, intuitive way.
MURAL STATEMENT
Spectrum of Emotions is a mural we painted during the Vancouver Mural Festival in 2020 If you search this term online, you will find images that show the accurate frequency of each emotion This means that, in the same way your eyes see only a limited colour spectrum ranging from red to violet through all the colours of the rainbow, your consciousness perceives a limited reality However, this is part of a broader reality that we can tap into only in a centered state of peace and relaxation
Behind the masks, at the exact midpoint, is the seed child This figure represents the full source potential, having no gender, no colour, and no name
The mural has an Augmented Reality component that brings it to life by aligning the split masks at the center, one over the other This visual effect illustrates how layers of emotions accumulate to create a low-frequency personality and how, by uncovering them, one can return to their true self
See Spectrum of Emotions in Augmented Reality:
FOLLOW THESE STEPS USING AN IPHONE:
1. Scan the QR Code
2. Allow lens.snap.com to access your camera
3. Point camera at the image
4. Wait until the 3D animation pops out
Or check it out on the website: https://www.xcrunchy.com/ar
Get in touch:
Instagram: @goextracrunchy Facebook: Extra Crunchy
www xcrunchy com/contact-us lets@goextracrunchy com
Online Shop and freebies:
www xcrunchy com/category/all-products
One side or the other
WRITTEN BY ANA SANTIAGO
ILLUSTRATED BY MARI KAMACHE
Ana Santiago, a neighbour of our beautiful community of River District, is happy to share her dream come true of putting her very first children’s picture book out there Her interest in books started when she was little and loved going to a bookstore with her mom in her hometown Years later, she felt the desire to spread her own written words. And here she goes.
One side or the other is a self-published book that celebrates two cousins and much longing between them. One lived in the north of the planet and the other in the south, until the construction of a noisy wooden staircase connected the two hemispheres. Imagine that! And with so much climbing up and down... Guess what happened?
Well, a story between two worlds, which she knows well since she was born and raised in Brazil, was the way she found to start her career as an independent author, always accompanied by her trusted cup of coffee The story has many layers to unpack and is full of details to nurture any child’s imagination. Beautifully illustrated by Mari Kamache, the book captures the sense of having fun here and there. However, even more than that, Ana believes these pages will resonate in a special way with many who come from somewhere else or were born here but have their roots and loved ones from the other side of the equator, exactly like the relationship between her daughter and cousins. From readers’ feedback, this book has the power of bringing families together, even living miles away.
Ana believes these pages will resonate in a special way with many who come from somewhere else or were born here but have their roots and loved ones from the other side of the equator, exactly like the relationship between her daughter and cousins.
This book has the power of bringing families together, even living miles away.
The book is also available in Portuguese and both can be found on presale at the following link: santiagoana.square.site/
The official launch day is coming up soon in early 2025. Stay tuned!
You are more than welcome to follow the author on social media, say hi, and get to know more about this book as well as others that are on the way
By the way, when not writing, Ana is often around the neighbourhood chasing after her little girl, who zips around on her fast blue scooter, throwing rocks in the river and playing in the fairy hut. It has been four years since her family joined the community, and this hidden gem in Vancouver has become one of her favourite places to be.
@marikamache
Email: onesideortheotherbook@gmail.com
Circle the items that you use in winter. How many did you circle?
What is your favourite thing to do in the snow?
Draw or write about it.
Inspiration comes from everything that surrounds me: happiness, environment, animals, flowers, and people. When I’m inspired and something flows in my mind, the lyrics and melodies go hand in hand.
Local River District Musician Frederico “Dyke” Tapnio
WORDS & PHOTOS BY FREDERICO “DYKE” TAPNIO
If you live in the River District, chances are you have met Fred! Federico "Dyke" Tapnio is a talented singer, songwriter, and musician who brings an authentic and heartfelt energy to every performance, connecting deeply with audiences through his music and storytelling. Locally known for his song “River District Dogs,” Fred’s music and lyrics span from hyper-local to worldwide topics. We caught up with Fred to ask him some questions about his music, inspiration, and creative journey.
How long have you been writing and performing songs/music? And how did you first get started?
I started writing songs in my senior year in high school. The first song that I remember is Time & Time Again which I performed with my buddies as a front act for ASIN Band in Pampanga, Philippines Then I went on a hiatus for a while and went to college, worked, and raised a family
memorable moment of your music career so far?
My most memorable moment was when we recorded one of my songs, Beach Bum Sunset, in the Philippines and listened to it while it was being played on the radio. It was really an exciting moment for me.
Is there a specific song of yours that holds a special meaning to you? Why?
My favourite song so far is titled “Friends“ because it encompasses how friendships should be
Listento“Friends”here:
What inspires you the most when you write a song?
Inspiration comes from everything that surrounds me: happiness, environment, animals, flowers, people, and dogs When I’m inspired and something flows in my mind, the lyrics and melodies go hand in hand.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being a musician?
The most rewarding aspect for me is when I’m singing my song with my guitar and people ask me “Who wrote that song?” and I’ll just say I wrote it, and I’ll get a response of that’s beautiful and see the smile on their faces – that really makes me proud that I was able to share something that makes them smile
What inspired you to write“River District Dogs”
Living in the beautiful surroundings of River District, where people congregate with their dogs which I love dearly, inspired me to write a song called River District Dogs.
We were so lucky to have Fred perform “River District Dogs” live for our pet loving community! Do you recognize any of the dogs named in his song? Fred is always adding new dog names as he meets more furry friends around River District!
Listento“RiverDistrictDogs”here:
Videoby:ArnieChang
Check out more of Fred’ music on his YouTube channel:
We woof this song!
Thankyou for helping Thankyou for helping re-write ourfuture! re-write ourfuture!
The Joy of Fostering
Local River District resident Kim speaks about her experience helping cats & dogs find forever homes by being a foster parent.
WORDS & PHOTOS BY
KIM KILLICK
My name is Kim, and I have lived in the River District since July 2018. I’m so excited to be able to talk about my experience fostering.
I thought I would start this article by saying how many dogs and cats I’ve fostered so far and was absolutely floored to see it was about 16 dogs and 16 cats, not including shorter stay/one-night fosters. Every dog and cat is so unique with their own personality - I feel like I have a brand new foster every time!
I grew up in the Okanagan with cats, and although I’ve always wanted a dog, I learned that not every situation works to have one of your own, but you can still love and care for animals in different ways other than ownership.
I’ve never been much of a “big city person” and it took quite a few years after I moved to Vancouver to find a pet friendly apartment building, in an area that felt like an actual neighbourhood, while still allowing for a shorter commute than my more rural colleagues. I was lucky enough to have a car at that point and feel VERY old referring to “back in the day River District times” where you needed a car because transit wasn’t super existent LOL!
Less than 5 months after moving in and having started following all the rescues around, I saw my dog Mala needing a foster-to-adopt. She was rescued from Nunavut after being left outside in the winter, tied up, and left to starve. I remember commenting on her post for a foster and then got the email that she was coming the next day. I picked her up from the airport and never looked back!
This is when I also started educating myself about the situation in Manitoba and Nunavut when it comes to strays and culls and lack of vets/inability to spay and neuter. I often compare it to the street dogs I saw in Peru, but with the harshness of winter always around. I never knew it was so bad here in Canada and I really encourage everyone to learn more about the situation there and the importance of rescuing, as well as how awful the breeding trade can be. Especially in recent years, the influx of “backyard breeders” has really put a strain on rescues and people who care for animals are in even higher demand because of it.
Mala really taught me about dog ownershipmeeting her where she’s at, making sure to exercise her mind as well as body, and finding the humour in the craziness (husky life!). The River District is so amazing too - whether it’s finding a dog hiker that can take her for off leash adventures nearby with her neighbourhood pup friends, a trainer, a groomer, agility lessons, scent work lessons, and a retailer that was able to walk us through switching to raw food, it’s so dog friendly here! I’d love to one day own a doggy daycare in the area!
During COVID I not only adopted my cat, Tane, but I also started fostering. I figured since I was now working from home, I might as well try! We went through a couple bumps along the road finding rescues that I didn’t align with or realizing that Mala didn’t want any puppies under 4/5 months old around her, and Tane didn’t want any cats over 4 months around him. Mala also needs to be “in charge” so dogs who aren’t submissive aren’t great for her. Both rescues I foster through have been amazing working with me through that and believe you need to work within your own and your pets’ boundaries and restrictions.
What support does the rescue organization offer?
They will give you someone that you can reach out to with questions For me, being so new to having dogs in general, this was such a huge help because I didn’t always know what was normal vs what wasn’t I think as long as you’re able to ask for help and ask questions, you’d make a great foster! It’s certainly not always easy - you’re getting a rescue that might take time to adjust, might have worms (they all get sent to the vet right away so it’s a quick fix), and come to you without any training, so empathy towards the foster as well as some grit knowing there will be an adjustment period is also a must
How much does it cost?
I could never do it - I’ too sad and keep them all!
Everything is paid for and rescues like Endless Pawsabilities Rescue Society and Heart and Soul Dog & Cat Rescue Society (both rescues that I foster for) have their own vets they work with and supply all the food, treats, beds, harnesses, etc that you could possibly need!
What if it isn’
t working out?
I think that’s a big thing people don’t understandthe good rescues will let you choose and will move a dog/cat fairly quickly if it’s not working There’s usually a Facebook group that you can see the write up about the animals coming in, when they’re arriving, the care they need, etc , and you can sign up for whoever works best for you, as often as you want, and if you need a break no one faults you for taking it
I think the other thing that people assume is that they’ll never be able to give them up There’s a saying in fostering: “my heart breaks so yours doesn’t have to ” Even though it’s heartbreaking for you to see them go off, they get to go be with someone who is so excited to have them and live these great lives! Nothing makes me happier than seeing updates about my fosters or follow them on social media and get to see the amazing lives they’re living The sad reality is that there is always another dog/cat in need of coming into the rescue Once you go in knowing you can’t keep them but will be a safe space for them to adjust and get ready for their forever home, it makes it easier! I also find that often for whatever reason you might have one that you love and care for, but they just don’t fit your lifestyle or your family It’s always heartbreaking to say goodbye and I always cry whenever they go, but I promise it’s not as bad as people think If these rescue animals can be as resilient as they are, you can too!! d be
This past year I started fostering the “shut down” dogs - ones that had been through severe trauma and were afraid to leave their crates. One in particular, Red, wasn’t able to go outside she was so scared, she would just go limp and tremble in fear. It took a lot of work with small outings, building confidence, and having Mala by her side to show her that things aren’t so scary. I felt SO grateful to the community here - people were so good about giving her space, letting their dogs say hi when she seemed ready, meeting up with fellow fosters, showing her that people mean love, that stores have treats, and she can be safe and thrive with humans. She went from being carried outside to greeting everyone in the neighbourhood and now lives in Revelstoke with her parents that have even taught her to use those talking buttons for dogs (which she has started sassing them with).
Fostering has been such an enriching experience for not only myself, but also my own pets. It’s allowed me to meet and have so many conversations with neighbours and explore the River District in a different way than I could before. I would absolutely love to see more fosters in the River District, it’s such a pet friendly area with animal loving people! I can bet that right now for anyone reading this there is an animal that would be an amazing temporary fit for you waiting for a safe place to go to before they can finally start their journey home, wherever home might be for them.
.pawsabilities
treat dreams treat dreams
Meet our Feature Pet
WORDS & PHOTOS
BY CRISTINA ARANA & ARLY LOPEZ
Lola is more than just a pet; she is an integral part of our family and has been with us since 2019 when my husband and I were still dating. Now almost 6 years old, we affectionately call her "Loli." From the moment we met her, we knew she would be a loyal and loving companion. When we moved to Canada in 2022, we had to leave her with our parents for a year due to immigration logistics. Although we missed her terribly, we knew she was in good hands. In November 2023, we finally brought her back home, and the reunion was one of the most emotional moments of our lives.
Lola is incredibly calm and easygoing, making her perfect for any situation. She’s not interested in toys, preferring to relax and spend time with us. Her favourite activity is sleeping she can often be found curled up on her bed or the couch, enjoying long naps. Lola is also sensitive to the cold and loves staying warm under blankets or snuggling next to us. This is her second winter in Canada, and although she’s gotten used to the cold a bit more, we still have to put a coat on her before walks, as she doesn’t like the chill.
Lola understands Spanish perfectly and responds to several commands in the language, though she also picks up a few words in English. Her favourite word is "vamos," which means “let’s go,” and she gets excited every time she hears it. She also loves treats and gets thrilled every time she sees a package or hears the word “treat.” Lola loves to be pampered and enjoys all the attention she gets. She has a soft spot for visiting Bosley’s, where she gets lots of affection and enjoys meeting new people, and she also has a quirky habit of enjoying trips to the liquor store. Lola has brought so much love and joy into our lives. Without a doubt, our family wouldn’t be the same without her.
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