With summer-mode activated, we’re excited to welcome you to Issue 15 of River District Living!
This season is all about soaking up the best of summer right here in our neighbourhood. Local eateries are serving up fresh seasonal flavours, pet-friendly patios are buzzing, and the riverside is perfect for recreation and enjoying the gorgeous murals nestled along the Fraser River. Just up the hill, the 3rd annual Killarney Summer Concert Series brings the community together with free live music for all ages.
In this issue, we celebrate the people and places that make River District shine: artists and makers, local businesses, and community champions. As one of Vancouver’s most pet-friendly areas, we also feature heartwarming animal stories, including a spotlight on one of our local furry friends
Whether you’re new to the neighbourhood or a longtime resident, we hope this issue inspires your next summer adventure right here in our community
Sincerely,
KatherineHall EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Contact us for info, features, advertising riverdistrictlivingmagazine@gmail.com
Muralist: Lay Hoon Ho, Arty Guava
Learn about our River District murals
Love for River District
Whyweloveithere
Coco Balloons
A Story of Reinvention
River District Run & Walk Club
Connections through movement
RAPS Animal Hospital
Making veterinary services accessible
Melooflora
Plants with personality
J&S Custom Furniture Co
Local handcrafted furniture & millwork
Kids Activity Page
Fun puzzles, games, & colouring
Novus: The Feel-Good Network
High-speed internet, TV, & home phone
KillarneySummerConcertSeries
A Season of Music, Food & Fun!
Chef & Co Canada
Patricia Wong: Local Entrepreneur
Senior Animals In Need Today Society The beautiful story of SAINTS Rescue
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
Lay Hoon Ho (Arty Guava)
Herschel Supply Co
Oriana Galindo Parparcén
Carola Parparcén
Katelynn Ramage
Jonathan Lai
RAPS Animal Hospital
Huong Tran
Kyoko Fierro NOVUS
Nhu Van Chung
Zenaida Kwong SAINTS Rescue
Thabata Portugal
Ike Cardinali
Cover Art
"Dance With Me”
Mural by Lay Hoon Ho (Arty Guava)
KATELYNN RAMAGE
River District Run & Walk Club
SHEILA KULLAR
SAINTS Rescue
ARNIE CHANG
Killarney Summer Concert Series
Contributing Writers
Lay Hoon Ho (Arty Guava)
Oriana Galindo Parparcén
Katelynn Ramage
Jonathan Lai Jenessa
Kyle
Pat Johnson
RAPS Animal Hospital
Editor-in-Chief & Content Director
Katherine Hall
Features
LAY HOON HO (ARTY GUAVA)
Artist & Illustrator
"Dance With Me”
JOSHUA HOOGE & STEVE MCFARLANE
J&S Custom Furniture Co
RAPS ANIMAL HOSPITAL
Huong Tran
Steve McFarlane NOVUS
Arnie Chang
Patricia Wong
Sheila Kullar
Thabata Portugal
Katherine Hall
Advertising Sales
Katherine Hall
HUONG TRAN
Melooflora
Making veterinary services accessible NOVUS
CAROLA PARPARCÉN & ORIANA GALINDO PARPARCÉN
Coco Balloons
The Feel-Good Network
PATRICIA WONG
Chef & Co Canada
THABATA PORTUGAL & IKE CARDINALI
Proud Pawrents of Johnny Cash
Mural Artist Spotlight: Lay Hoon Ho, Arty Guava ARTIST BIO
I’m Lay Hoon Ho, the creative spirit behind Arty Guava - a Vancouver-based artist and illustrator weaving joy, nature, and movement into every piece My work is a love letter to the world I see: one where dancing figures, exuberant florals, and playful creatures inhabit whimsical landscapes, all rendered in a style that blends bold vibrancy with delicate details.
Rooted in my Malaysian childhood, my art celebrates our profound connection to nature and each other. Whether through murals, patterns, or illustrations, I explore harmony as both subject and practice - the harmony between people and their environment, between cultures, and within ourselves. This philosophy extends to collaborations with global brands like Herschel, Coach, Starbucks, and Opus Art Supplies, where I’ve translated my signature energy into designs that resonate across audiences
Art, for me, is alchemy: transforming memories of tropical rainforests, the rhythm of dance, and the quiet magic of everyday moments into visual stories From a large-scale mural in Vancouver’s River District to a journal design for Weight Watchers, each project is an invitation to pause, smile, and remember our shared humanity.
When I’m not painting, you’ll find me crafting handmade treasures, taking long walks through parks with my sketchbook, or kayaking local waters - always chasing light, laughter, and the next spark of inspiration.
LAY HOON HO, ARTY GUAVA
“Dance With Me” by Lay Hoon Ho, Arty Guava
dancing with abandon, their playful poses radiating infectious energy Surrounded by lush flora and fauna, they symbolize harmony with the natural world - a reminder that even in challenging times, we remain part of something greater The whimsical style, with its flowing lines and vibrant colours, intentionally contrasts the heaviness of that era, offering viewers a moment of lightness
“Dance With Me” invites us to remember that joy persists, that movement is medicine, and that brighter days unfold when we move through life together - unafraid, imperfect, and alive.
Get in touch:
Website & Shop: www artyguava com
Email: hello@artyguava com
Instagram: @artyguava
TikTok: @artyguava
Created in 2020 during the pandemic’s height, it emerged from a time of collective isolation and anxiety. Amidst restrictions and uncertainty, I longed to capture the joy of uninhibited human connection and the resilience of hope.
Love for River District
What I love most about the River District is how beautifully it blends nature and creativity. Being steps from the Fraser River and surrounded by green spaces creates such tranquility. But what really stands out is how the community celebrates art - like the mural gallery I contributed to. Working on that project, I felt the warmth of this peaceful, tight-knit neighbourhood through every conversation with residents.
- Lay
Hoon
(Arty
Guava)
, Artist & Illustrator
I live in the River District area and absolutely love being part of such a vibrant and lively community. I enjoy everything this neighbourhood has to offer - from fun holiday events like the recent Easter celebration, to the amazing local restaurants (I’m a big fan of Local Public Eatery and Sushi Mura!). I also love stopping by Everything Wine to try out their wine samples - it's such a fun way to discover new favourites There’s always something going on, and it’s such a great place to connect with others
-
Huong , Melooflora
Fraserview is a peaceful, welcoming community where nature and kindness go hand in hand. Surrounded by greenery, it offers a rare blend of quiet beauty and genuine connection. My mom loves how neighbours look out for each other, and how everyone feels like family. She’s truly grateful to call Fraserview home.
- Oriana & Carola , Coco Balloons
What I love most about living in River District is the perfect balance of nature and convenience Everything is within walking distance, yet we’re surrounded by greenery, riverside trails, and stunning sunsets The river view never gets old - and it’s a great fit for me, my husband, and our Frenchie, Johnny Cash, who loves every walk and neighbourly hello
- Thabata & Ike ,
Proud Pawrents of Johnny Cash
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 Summer Concert Series
The strong community is what makes the River District so special. Whether you are out for an evening walk along the river and have a friendly hello from a friendly neighbour or to events unique to the River District like Halloween on Jellicoe or the Tugboat Landing Artisan Market. Our community is special, like no other in Vancouver.
- Katelynn ,
River District Run & Walk CLub
I love being part of the River District Run Club It's a great way to stay active and share that activity with other members of this great community. Everyone has been very welcoming and it's been a lot of fun!
- Jonathan ,
River District Run & Walk CLub
I love River District Vancouver for its easy access to trails, parks, farms and nearby cities like Richmond and Burnaby, North Vancouver and beyond. It’s a safe, walkable community where I often bump into neighbours on my way to the gym/sauna, or local restaurants/cafes. I also appreciate the family friendly amenities and Wesgroup’s inclusive events throughout the year. Chef & Co Canada aprons are worn by local businesses in River District. Have you spotted the aprons in our local businesses and on food trucks that frequently visit our neighbourhood?"
- Patricia , Chef & Co Canada
Coco Balloons
FromHealingHandstoBalloonArt: AStoryofReinvention
WORDS & IMAGES BY ORIANA GALINDO PARPARCÉN BALLOON ART BY CAROLA PARPARCÉN
Three years ago, my mother left her life in Venezuela behind and started from scratch in Canada. Back home, she had built a career as a nutritionist and acupuncturist – a respected healer who spent years helping others find wellness. But immigration has a way of erasing titles, and when she arrived in Canada, none of her credentials came with her.
It was a painful transition Starting over at any age is difficult, but doing so in a new country, in a new language, without the tools that once defined your life, is another level of bravery What she didn’t know at the time was that life was about to take a wildly creative turn – one that no one could’ve predicted
During the COVID-19 pandemic, just before arriving in Canada, my mom found herself unexpectedly stuck in the U S She was staying with a friend – someone who happened to be a balloon artist Quarantined and far from home, my mom had little else to do but watch and help What started as curiosity quickly turned into fascination She spent hours learning the techniques, styles, materials, and the surprising level of artistry involved in balloon design
This friend didn’t just host her – she taught her everything she knew In those long days of isolation, my mother discovered a new language, one made not of words but of colour, movement, and form. Something inside her lit up. For the first time in a long while, she wasn’t just surviving. She was creating.
Fast forward to today, and my mom is now a certified professional balloon designer, turning her passion into a full-fledged business in Canada. She doesn’t just blow-up balloons – she sculpts experiences. Her arrangements are modern, elegant, and architectural. Whether it's a birthday, wedding, or corporate event, her work transforms spaces and emotions alike.
She approaches each project like she once approached her patients – with intention, precision, and care. Her attention to detail is unmatched: every colour is chosen with a purpose, every shape placed with balance She brings a nutritionist’s eye for harmony and an acupuncturist’s understanding of flow into her artistic process
People often say her balloons don’t look like anything they’ve seen before – and they’re right They are art Playful yet refined Joyful yet composed A perfect reflection of the woman behind them
She doesn’t just blow-up balloons – she sculpts experiences. Her arrangements are modern, elegant, and architectural. Whether it's a birthday, wedding, or corporate event, her work transforms spaces and emotions alike.
What I admire most is not just her talent, but her courage. She could’ve mourned the life she left behind. She could’ve given up. Instead, she embraced the unknown, picked up something entirely new, and made it hers. She transformed her story from loss into reinvention, from limitation into possibility.
My mom's journey reminds me that starting over doesn’t mean starting from nothing Sometimes, all it takes is a spark - a friend, a quiet moment, a forgotten skill - to uncover a whole new version of yourself
And now, every time I see one of her creations rise into the air, I see more than balloons I see resilience I see artistry I see her
Order for your next event:
Instagram: @coco balloonsyvr
Email: cocoballoonsyvr@gmail.com
River District Run & Walk Club
WORDS AND IMAGES BY KATELYNN RAMAGE
My name is Katelynn, and I’ve had the privilege of calling River District home for the past four years Before moving here, I lived in South Burnaby for five years What has always stood out to me about our community is how active and community focused it is Whether it’s social walks, strolls with dogs, cycling, or running, there’s an undeniable energy in the air - our community is always on the move
Over time, I noticed something missing: a group that could bring everyone together, not only to keep moving but to strengthen the bonds within the community. I realized that while people were active, there wasn’t a space or group dedicated to fostering deeper connections through movement. That’s when the idea for the River District Run & Walk Club was born.
For the past 15 years, running and walking have been at the core of my life. I started with a local track club in my hometown, and over the years, I’ve been fortunate to compete at a high level in track and field, both at university and as a member of Team BC and Team Canada After graduating from university, I worked in the running retail industry, and the highlight of my week was always leading the run groups It was a chance to meet people who shared the same passion for running or walking - whether they were seasoned runners or walkers or just beginning their journey
Through these experiences, I’ve met some of my closest friends, and the connections formed on those long runs and walks have always been something special. I realized that creating similar connections in River District could be a powerful way to build an even stronger community.
I love
being
part of the
River District Run Club.
It's a great way to stay active and share that activity with other members of this great community. Everyone has been very welcoming and it's been a lot of fun!
JONATHAN
MEETING OUTSIDE ROMER’S
y g g benches in front of Romer’s. Our weekday runs usually cover about 5 kilometers, while our weekend runs range from 5 to 10 kilometers We also have a walking group on the weekends, that often includes a coffee or tea stop along the way This group is so much more than just the miles completed – it is about enjoying each other’s company while taking in the beauty of our surroundings
As the group continues to grow, we have seasoned runners to those just starting out on their walking or running journeys. There’s a sense of camaraderie that makes everyone feel welcome, regardless of pace or experience level. And as we continue to grow, I’m always looking for new run leaders who can help lead different paces, ensuring that everyone feels included.
The group has built more wonderful community connections, and it has been awesome meeting more folks that enjoy spending time walking and running in our beautiful neighbourhood.
JENESSA
If you’re interested in joining us or if you’d like to help lead a run, please feel free to reach out to me either through Instagram or via email It’s been a joy to see how this community has flourished, and I look forward to continuing to build stronger bonds with even more of our neighbours. I didn’t know any other runners in the neighbourhood, or many people in general, so it
The award-winning RAPS Animal Hospital is now offering River District residents a huge opportunity to save on veterinary care (For details, see our ad on the previous page).
RAPS, the Regional Animal Protection Society, has redefined veterinary care through the groundbreaking “RAPS Model ” This multifaceted approach interweaves social enterprise, no-kill animal welfare, and community-owned veterinary facilities to save and improve the lives of animals
RAPS recognizes that to have the greatest impact, we need to help animals and their people
By removing the profit motive, RAPS Animal Hospital has revolutionized animal healthcare. This makes vet care more accessible and affordable in one of the world’s most expensive jurisdictions. It has also meant millions of dollars reinvested into the care of animals –including stray, feral, abandoned and surrendered animals. To date, RAPS has provided over $6.5 million in subsidies to the community.
Veterinary costs have increased dramatically in recent years The introduction of high-end medical procedures and equipment, mirroring best practices in human healthcare, means pet guardians are willing to invest significantly in their pets' well-being That includes blood work, X-rays, ultrasound, laser therapy, oxygen therapy, orthopedic surgeries, soft tissue surgeries and dentals, to name a few
Expensive surgeries, which may cost $8,000 at other clinics, can range between $3,000 and $4,000 at RAPS And these procedures can be made affordable by RAPS’ interest-free payment plans, the only one of its kind in British Columbia.
RAPS Animal Hospital also has in-house staff with advanced degrees, training and experience in microsurgery, orthopedic surgeries, intensive care, cardiology, routine and complicated dentistry, preventative healthcare, emergency medicine and many more areas of emergency and conventional treatments.
At RAPS Animal Hospital, because of subsidized care and the availability of RAPS’ proprietary interest-free payment plans, clients are able to access (and afford) the full range of required healthcare for their pets Clients are therefore able to access the procedures they need on a manageable budget A huge unanticipated one-time bill could upend a family’s budget – even force a tragic life-and-death decision At RAPS Animal Hospital, stretching a payment out over 12 months –with no interest – suddenly puts lifesaving procedures within easy reach
In addition, because of RAPS’ pricing and no-interest payment plans, many more clients are performing preventive, rather than emergency care This is good for the wallet and for the health of their pets
The RAPS Animal Hospital’s unique model is so exciting it has its own TV show – “Pets & Pickers” –which has already had three smash seasons in Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom.
Corporate and community partnerships, grants and donations create a pronounced competitive edge. This diversified revenue approach ensures necessary resources and reduces operational costs. RAPS also receives enormous collateral support from corporate and community partners, including tens of thousands of members of the BC General Employees’ Union, the Canadian Union of Public Employees, employees through the Richmond Auto Mall Association, community centres, dozens of other rescue groups and their allies, and individual RAPS supporters, among many others RAPS also has three social enterprise thrift stores that raise money to subsidize the RAPS Animal Hospital
RAPS’ clients know that by choosing RAPS they are not only accessing top-quality animal care but supporting a revolutionary innovation that is dedicated to making veterinary services more accessible to all, thereby saving lives. Animal guardians tend to be ethical consumers. Through RAPS’ unique blend of business and benevolence, these guardians and all conscientious consumers have an option to empower their expenditures to echo their ethos of compassion by utilizing the RAPS Animal Hospital.
This is why RAPS has been voted by the public as the #1 veterinary clinic many years running and why RAPS continues to attract large number of new clients each month
Choose RAPS Animal HospitalWhere Compassion is the Cure
The residents of the Vancouver River District can now take advantage of the offerings at the RAPS Animal Hospital, which include a $100 gift card for each pet, 25% off in-house services year round, specials like 40% off dentals and certain surgeries, and much more.
By trusting your pet’s health to RAPS Animal Hospital, you’re making a decision that does more than benefit your own family. You’re helping make a more compassionate world for animals and humans alike. It's not just care - it’s a cause.
Book your appointment today. Your pet - and countless others - will thank you.
Suite 205 - 13340 Smallwood Place, Richmond www.rapsanimalhospital.com 604-242-1666 animalhospital@rapsbc.com
Melooflora
Plants with Personality
WORDS AND IMAGES BY HUONG TRAN
Hello! I’m a passionate gardener, and with summer in the air, I’m feeling especially inspired - this is truly one of my favourite seasons I started my business, Melooflora, earlier this year, inspired by my long-time love of vegetable gardening I’ve always found joy in growing from seed and nurturing plants from the very beginning
I mostly grow vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, leafy greens like spinach, bok choy, and lettuce, as well as herbs like parsley and basil. I also love planting flowers such as nasturtiums and marigolds, which are not only beautiful but also incredibly beneficial for the garden. Gardening is truly a part of my everyday life, and now through Melooflora, I get to share that joy with others by offering beautiful plants in charming, decorative pots.
You can often find me out enjoying the neighbourhood or spending time at one of the many local playgrounds with my 5-year-old daughter. She shares my love for gardening and is always eager to dig in the dirt and help out - it's a hobby we truly enjoy doing together
When I’m not in the garden, I also love to crochet, and you can follow the things I create through Meloocrochet Whether it’s plants or handmade creations, I love putting care and creativity into everything I do
If you’re interested in custom plant and pot combinations, I’d love to hear your ideas! Feel free to shoot me a message through Melooflora - I’m always happy to collaborate and create something special just for you. And if you live in the River District, you’re also welcome to browse my little garden of decorative pots in person!
Thanks for taking the time to learn a little about meI’m always excited to connect with fellow plant lovers, makers, and community members!
Get in touch:
Plant & Pot Instagram: @melooflora Crochet Instagram: @meloocrochet
WORDS BY STEVE MCFARLANE
PHOTOS BY KYOKO FIERRO
Who we are:
J&S is a small team of experienced and skilled craftsmen who hand build furniture and millwork according to time honoured traditional methods. Our fine furniture and millwork is 100% made in Canada at our Vancouver workshop using quality materials from sustainable sources and local suppliers We are experienced in many materials but focus on using FSC certified North American hardwoods and variety of reclaimed wood options salvaged by our team We take pride in turning quality materials into timeless pieces of handmade furniture for living and work spaces while promoting sustainable and eco-friendly business practices Our goal is to create pieces that are treasured and enduring, that can be passed on to the next generation.
Since starting in 2012 in an East Van back yard, the J&S team has handcrafted over 10,000 unique pieces of furniture and millwork for our clients. Our full production joinery workshop is located on the banks of the Fraser River in one of Vancouver’s original sawmill sites, now host to a family-owned lumberyard with a collective of other traditional workshops.
Traditional CraftsmanshipOur philosophy:
Craftsmanship is a system of skills, a mindset, and a lifestyle that is passed down from one traditionally trained carpenter to the next. Our team of carpenters has over 60 years of combined professional experience practising these time-honoured skills We focus on building by hand and passing this on to the next generation of apprentices instead of focusing on how to replace carpenters with automation and industrial production machinery Attention to detail, always looking to improve, never accepting good enough as a standard of work, building something to last for generations of use, and keeping the old traditions of the skilled craftsman alive; this is how we build with integrity.
Our approach to furniture design is one of forward thinking. If a piece of furniture is carefully designed, artfully crafted, and appropriately finished, it can last generations. We believe it is better to invest in a piece that you love for years instead of participating in fast furniture and throwaway culture. Our furniture is made to be used, loved, and cared for.
Environmental Stewardship -
How green is our operation?
We focus on sustainable business practices in the circular economy and choose to work with local suppliers that offer high quality, environmentally friendly products and materials Reduction of material use, reusing materials, and recycling material through our salvage operations are at the core of our business model. Our workshop is constantly innovating new methods to reduce material use through efficient processes while generating the least amount of waste through careful cuts, and efficient layout and planning. By focusing on solid wood construction, all of the offcuts and sawdust from our workshop can be endlessly reused and nothing enters the waste stream.
Who we work with:
We work directly with residential clients as well as designers, architects, and contractors to create high quality furniture and millwork for residential and commercial spaces We help each client through the design phase and can build to spec from supplied plans or assist in creating the designs. We focus on highlighting the natural beauty of the raw materials, while designing each piece to be inspiring, durable, and functional. Shop our collection of furniture designs or contact us to create something custom. If you have an idea, we can build it for you!
Contact info:
1640 East Kent Ave South Vancouver, Unit 39 (By appointment)
Phone Number: 778-317-3027
Website: www.jscustomfurniture.com
Instagram: @jsreclaimedwood
Draw your favourite summer activity:
Connect the dots. What is it?
Colour the picture. It is a .
Your Internet Should Feel Good - Ours Does!
Looking for fast, reliable service that feels a little more… human? Meet Novus - your local provider of high-speed internet, TV, and home phone services, all powered by our very own fibre optic network. No middlemen. No surprises. Just quality connections from a company putting people first.
You’ve probably heard it by now - Novus calls itself The Feel-Good Network But what does that really mean?
For starters, it means faster support, and a team genuinely understanding what matters to the people who live here We’re not a faceless giant with a call centre halfway across the country We’re your neighbours! Our staff live and work right here in the Lower Mainland That means when you reach out, you’re talking to someone who knows your area, your building, and maybe even your favourite coffee shop.
“Even beyond our blazing-fast speeds, there’s something different about Novus. Maybe it’s the friendly faces at local events, or the way we remember your name. Maybe it’s just that everything feels a bit more personal - because it is.”
And yes, we are proudly local Founded in Vancouver back in 1996, and we’ve stayed true to our BC roots ever since. That’s nearly 30 years of building reliable connections, showing up for our communities, and doing things the West Coast way. Today, Novus is in over 1,000 buildings across Metro Vancouver, and we’re still expanding. Unlike other providers, we don’t ride on anyone else’s infrastructure - we build our own fibre optic network from the ground up. That means faster speeds, more reliability, and better service.
That local love? It shows up in everything we do. From sponsoring community events like Riverside Street Vibe and the local farmers markets, to spotlighting BC creators and makers in our “12 Days of Giveaways” during the holiday season - our version of feel-good means showing up, giving back, and celebrating the people who make our neighbourhoods thrive
We love being part of the community Whether we’re sponsoring the Vancouver Sun Run, joining the fun at Canada Day celebrations, or dancing alongside you at a local festival - we’re not just writing the cheque, we’re there in the crowd Supporting local doesn’t stop at our business model - it’s baked into who we are
And our customers seriously feel the difference. Some have been with us for over 25 years and say our service has been flawless the whole way through. One even said they'd give us 10 stars if they could - how’s that for a feel-good moment? Another shared we’re the first internet provider they’ve ever left a positive review for. Whether it’s a technician who takes extra care during setup or a customer support team that’s helpful and human, we’re proud of the moments that leave people smiling.
Even beyond our blazing-fast speeds, there’s something different about Novus Maybe it’s the friendly faces at local events, or the way we remember your name Maybe it’s just that everything feels a bit more personal - because it is
And when you need some help? We’re on it Fast No long holds, no endless transfers, just real help from real people
So if you’re looking for internet that’s fast, friendly, and rooted right here in your community - make the switch to Novus.
It’s not just internet. It’s the feel-good network.
Get ready, Southeast Vancouver - summer nights are about to get a whole lot brighter! The Killarney Community Centre proudly presents the 3rd Annual Killarney Summer Concert Series - an all-ages celebration of music, community spirit, and great eats, right in the heart of the Killarney neighbourhood.
Join us for four unforgettable Thursday evenings, each packed with live performances, local flavour, and feelgood vibes Whether you call Killarney, Fraserview, Champlain, or the River District home, this concert series is for you and your neighbours to come together and enjoy
This event is proudly presented by the Killarney Community Centre Society and the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation, and is held on the unceded, ancestral territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.
Mark your calendars, wear your dancing shoes, tell your friends, and join us for the best of summer in Southeast Vancouver. We’ll see you at the show!
Come Hungry!
Swing by Sixty2Sixty Eats, our on-site concession, and treat yourself to a delicious variety of snacks, meals, and sweet treats - perfect fuel for a fun-filled evening.
See you there:
Killarney Community Centre
6260 Killarney Street, Vancouver
www killarneycentre ca
Instagram: @killarneyccs
Facebook: Killarney Community Centre
EveryThursday July24-August14
7:00PM–9:00PM
2025Lineup-FourNightsof IncredibleMusic:
July24-R&BConspiracy
Kicking off the series with a bang, R&B Conspiracy delivers a high-energy blend of rhythm and blues that’s sure to get everyone on their feet.
July31-BillyDixonandHisSoulTrain Express
A Vancouver legend! Don’t miss this powerhouse group serving up a soulful, funky, and unforgettable performance
August7-Groove&Tonic
If you came to dance, this is your night. Groove & Tonic brings contagious energy and non-stop party vibes
August14-DavidWillsandThe Dynamics
We’re closing the series in style with David Wills and The Dynamics, featuring the DynaGroove Hornsexpect a finale full of soul, funk, and show-stopping flair
WRITTEN
PHOTOS
BY
BY
PATRICIA WONG
ZENAIDA KWONG
About Patricia Wong, Founder of Chef & Co Canada:
Patricia Wong always dreamed of becoming a fashion designer, but her path to building Chef & Co Canada was far from conventional She began working at 16, taking on roles in healthcare, administration, and accounting. After earning a Psychology degree from UBC and progressing through the CGA program, she held positions as a dental assistant, physiotherapy receptionist, and optometric assistant - all while quietly nurturing her creative side.
Art remained a constant. Patricia studied fine arts, makeup artistry at Blanche Macdonald, and completed certificates in interior design and other creative programs through BCIT and beyond. In 2009, she moved to Guangzhou and Hong Kong to study Mandarin, Chinese painting, and fashion design while working at the Canadian Consulate At 29, she finally saved enough to attend fashion school in Hong Kong
Before launching Chef & Co Canada, Patricia founded three businesses: a wedding floral studio, a bridal retail kiosk, and a global kids’ and women’s fashion label called Bubbles Made in Korea Her work took her across Asia and Europe, where she built strong supplier relationships and sold globally through online platforms and pop-ups.
It was during these travels - especially through 14+ countries and many Michelin-starred restaurants - that she noticed a missing element in her hometown of Vancouver: hospitality uniforms that reflected style, branding, and individuality While restaurants around the world focused on every detail of the guest experience, Vancouver’s uniforms often came from generic linen services
Patricia set out to change that She began designing custom aprons for chefs, guided by the belief that those who serve others also deserve to feel seen, stylish, and comfortable. Word-of-mouth referrals soon turned into a growing network, and Chef & Co Canada was born - a designer-led brand dedicated to crafting aprons that blend fashion, function, and identity.
She began designing custom aprons for chefs, guided by the belief that those who serve others also deserve to feel seen, stylish, and comfortable.
Today, Patricia’s aprons can be found in restaurants, food trucks, cafés, farmers markets, and hotels across Canada and internationally. Each design is intentionally made with three standard sizes and custom options. Her collections reflect both timeless simplicity and bold innovation - treating each apron as a wearable canvas.
More than just uniforms, her work empowers chefs and hospitality teams to wear pieces that reflect their story, their brand, and their values.
Get in touch:
Email: hello@chefandcocanada.ca
Website: chefandcocanada.ca
Instagram: @chefandcocanada
Facebook: Chef & Co Canada
WORDS BY SHEILA KULLAR PHOTOS CREDITED TO SAINTS
I first learned about SAINTS before it officially became Senior Animals In Need Today Society. I volunteered at my local shelter and was drawn to it because, more than 20 years ago, it was almost certain that senior, palliative, and special needs animals would not make it out of the shelters alive. At the time, I was fostering a two-year-old mixed-breed hound and soon discovered he had cancer. He became an adoption, as the 11 people who had inquired about him and were waiting for him to recover lost interest when I called to tell them about his diagnosis. Butch had cancer, and no one wanted him.
SAINTS ( www.saintsrescue.ca ) was doing work that I had never seen any other rescue do. They took in cats and dogs that had no chance of finding a home. Nearly 21 years later, we have seen many changes, with staff, volunteers, and animals coming and going - just as life ebbs and flows. Some animals have been lucky enough to find homes, while others have passed away at the sanctuary Yet, despite all the changes, one belief remains constant: every animal has the right to a dignified end of life That belief is why I am so committed to SAINTS
Over the years I have adopted 5 SAINTS and fostered several more Pictured are my adopted SAINTS Each one had their own challenges Luke arrived as a 10year-old, having suffered sudden trauma that left him blind He came from a rescue that wasn’t ideal Scrappy arrived at 15 years old, overweight and diabetic. Lotus was only two but was incredibly shy, with knee issues that made her walk like a rat on its hind legs. Joe was palliative and passed away just three months after coming home with me. Rayne was young - just over a year old - when he was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes. Eight years later, his diabetes remains unregulated, despite having been under the care of a specialist for the past two years. None of these animals would have survived had they not found their way to SAINTS first.
Luke, Scrappy, Lotus, Joe, and Rayne found a home with my sister and me, but most animals who come to SAINTS live out their final days here. That’s what makes SAINTS different - we take them in, knowing their time may be limited.
I believe in SAINTS so deeply that I have been volunteering for more than 20 years. I oversee revenue development and sit on the board. February 2024, we sold SAINTS property in Mission and October 2024 purchased new 5.25-acre property in Maple Ridge. The last year I have been chairing the Give Love, Give Shelter Campaign to raise 1.1 million dollars to renovate and upgrade the property before moving the shelter over
Please go to www saintsrescue ca and read about the many animals that have come after Luke, Scrappy, Lotus, Joe, and Rayne
Henlo friends!
Meet our Feature Pet
WORDS BY THABATA PORTUGAL
PHOTOS BY THABATA PORTUGAL & IKE CARDINALI
Meet Johnny Cash: The Man in Tan
Don’t let the name fool you - this Johnny Cash may not sing ballads about heartbreak and trains, but he does know how to steal hearts everywhere he goes. A five-year-old French bulldog with a big personality and an even bigger fan club, Johnny Cash is pure charisma in a compact, wiggly body
Much like his legendary namesake, Johnny has a magnetic presence Whether he’s strutting down the trail on a sunny day or lounging in a sunbeam at home, people (and dogs) can’t help but stop and stare And once they do, he’s ready - melting instantly into a puddle of tail wags and snorts, eager for a hello and maybe even a cuddle Ignoring him isn’t really an option He insists on greeting everyone, one friendly sniff or butt wiggle at a time.
Johnny lives for the simple pleasures: long nature walks, the smell of freshly cooked eggs, cheese nibbles, and finding the perfect patch of grass to roll around in He may not be the most aquatic pup (he loves water, but swimming isn’t in his skill set), but he’s got other talentslike zooming around the house at lightning speed or offering the world's most irresistible belly for a rub
He’s also got a bit of a signature look: a charming underbite, tongue often hanging out, and a joyful expression that feels contagious. His best bud, an Aussie shepherd named Bruce, is usually not far behind, and together they make an adorable, high-energy duo.
At home, Johnny is a sunspot connoisseur and an expert cuddler. He’s happiest when he’s close to his humans, always ready to snuggle up for some quality time. His sweet nature makes every day brighter.
He might not wear black, but this Johnny Cash sure knows how to walk the line - between playful and sweet, goofy and charming. And wherever he goes, you can bet he's the center of attention, just the way he likes it
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