River District Living magazine - Issue 21

GUIDE TO LIFE & STYLE IN THE RIVER DISTRICT

GENERAL

PREVENTATIVE CARE

COSMETIC DENTISTRY CLEAR ALIGNER ORTHODONTICS

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

SURGICAL CARE

Dear Neighbours

Every issue of River District Living is a reminder that there is always something new to discover close to home. Whether it's meeting someone doing inspiring work, finding your next favourite local business, or learning about an event you didn't know was happening, there's no shortage of reasons to get out and enjoy our neighbourhood this summer.

In Issue 21, we are excited to feature a local artist whose Augmented Reality artwork adds an interactive twist, proving that art and creativity can be experienced in more ways than one.

We've also rounded up some great local finds: a fitness studio helping people stay active and build confidence, a childcare centre helping young learners get off to a strong start, and a local dessert café serving up two limited-time indulgent sundaes and helping us stay cool in the summer heat

We feature outdoor markets, a special festival celebrating craft soda, and free outdoor live music concerts that you will not want to miss! Discover local businesses, services, and events in our vibrant Marketplace, and find practical ideas for creating positive change in business in our Coaching Corner.

And of course, don't miss this issue's Feature Pet, one of River District's most adored four-legged locals, a true community heart-throb

Thank you for making River District Living part of your summer. We hope this issue inspires you to try something new, support local, and enjoy everything our neighbourhood has to offer.

Sincerely,

KatherineHall

4th Annual Killarney Summer Concert Series

live music under the open

Fit Studios

feel stronger, & build confidence Neo Academy

your child a strong start

Kids Activity Page

puzzles, games, & colouring Boketto

down with two dream sundaes

West Coast Wild Foods

our Saturday market this summer

New West Farmers Market

our local food system

Coaching Corner with Brian Cady The

us for

RIVER DISTRICT

L I V I N G

We recognize and acknowledge that River District is situated on the unceded traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.

Cover Art

“Aurora Soar” Victoria at Dusk festival Artwork by Tarcila Neves

Editor-in-Chief & Content Director

Katherine Hall

Contributing Photographers / Artists

Tarcila Neves

Renata Chebel

Nhu-Van Chung

Rachel Seay

Neo Academy

West Coast Wild Foods

Linda Yan

Brian Cady

Linh Nguyen

Katherine Hall

Mallory Gladman

RYH Design

Arnie Chang

@so paw photos

Victoria at Dusk Festival

Katherine Gonzalez, Vancouver Pet Photography

Sales & Marketing Team SIGN UP FOR YOUR FREE RIVER DISTRICT LIVING COMMUNITY CLUB CARD & START SAVING TODAY! Follow our community account on Instagram @riverdistrictliving Want to add your business to our Community Club Card and reach more customers in South Vancouver & South Burnaby? Connect with us at riverdistrictliving.ca@gmail.com JoinourCommunityClubCard,connecting neighbourswithlocalbusinessesand offeringspecialrewards&perks!

Advertising

Sales

Katherine Hall

Contributing Writers

Tarcila Neves

Rachel Seay

Neo Academy

Juan Florez

West Coast Wild Foods

Sales & Marketing Team

riverdistrictlivingmagazine@gmail.com www.riverdistrictliving.ca

Emily Gaudette

Brian Cady

Mallory Gladman

Arnie Chang

Linh Nguyen

Katherine Hall

Connect with us: @riverdistrictlivingmagazine @riverdistrictliving @riverdistrictlivingrealestate

Love for River District

The River District has a unique, rhythmic energy where the industrial history of the Fraser River meets a thriving modern community. I love how the waterfront trails encourage residents to slow down and connect. It’s a neighbourhood that feels like a living canvasperfect for "phygital" art that enhances our shared connection to nature and one another.

- Tarcila Neves , Concept Artist , Art Director , & Visual Arts Instructor

We love our River District community (plus the dogs are a wonderful bonus) Our regulars are so lovely, and we would not have a café without our wonderful customers

It’s a beautiful neighbourhood with so many families and it has become so much livelier since we first opened in November 2022. We love that we get to witness how River District has grown since we opened.

- Linh , Boketto Dessert Cafe

West Coast Wild Foods loves partnering with River District Living magazine! As a community-focused publication, it keeps residents updated on local news and what’s new in the neighbourhood This collaboration allows us to connect directly with our customers, sharing our passion for sustainable, highquality wild foods and strengthening our ties with the community we proudly serve. It’s all about staying close to home.

- Juan , West Coast Wild Foods

What we love most about the River District is how naturally it supports an active lifestyle. Whether you're walking along the waterfront, doing your run training for a HYROX event, cycling, or simply getting outside to enjoy some sunshine by the water, the neighbourhood makes movement feel accessible and enjoyable.

At Inner Fit, we believe fitness is about much more than what happens inside the studio The squats, sled pushes, rowing intervals, and strength training we do in class help people enjoy life outside the gym with more energy, confidence, and freedom throughout their lives The River District embodies that same philosophy by creating an environment where healthy living becomes part of everyday life

- Rachel , Owner , Inner Fit Studios

I like River District because it feels new but not rushed. It’s walkable, close to the water, and people actually use the neighbourhood It doesn’t feel like a shortcut or a stopover It feels like somewhere you could settle in, build routines, and enjoy the pace without feeling boxed in

- Brian , Executive Business Coach , Effectus Coaching

A place that slows my heartbeat in all the right waysthe River District reminds me how good life feels when water, community, and wagging tails meet. It’s where sunsets linger, neighbours smile a bit longer, dogs make every walk feel like a celebration, and gratitude comes easy.

- Arnie & Nancy , Proud Pawrents of Gus

Artist Spotlight: Tarcila Neves

WORDS & ARTWORK BY

TARCILA NEVES

Tarcila Neves is a professional Concept Artist, Art Director, and Visual Arts Instructor who pioneers the "phygital" experience - where tangible community art meets digital innovation As the Executive Art Director of Arts Nest, Tarcila acts as an expert technology builder, developing custom AR layers and interactive tools to turn public art into living archives. Her practice is defined by Antropofagia 2.0, a process of "devouring" technological complexity to nourish community sovereignty and accessibility.

PHOTO BY RENATA CHEBEL

Her work is deeply rooted in local connection, beginning with the "Voices of Unity" sculpture at St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church. This interactive monument was a true collective effort, featuring symbols laser-cut at the Richmond Media Lab and painted by dozens of community members Tarcila integrated machine learning and Augmented Reality (AR) to make the sculpture "breathe," allowing the community to scan the work to hear local music and see the art move. This focus on accessibility is a hallmark of her work, specifically designed for individuals with visual impairments or ADHD through audio-visual synchronicity

This regional expertise extends to the Victoria at Dusk festival, where her web-based AR animations of local animals transformed Douglas Street into an educational urban trail Her technical journey also includes high-level international residencies, such as her work at the Mars College Art Residency in California, where she used custom software to projection-map the Painted Canyon. By bringing these global technical insights back to local neighbourhoods, Tarcila ensures that the future of technology is both inclusive and human-centered

COVER ART DESCRIPTION

Aurora Soar reimagines the Pacific Northwest's great blue heron - the coastal guardian I kept meeting along Victoria's shoreline - as something luminous and otherworldly. I painted her mid-flight beneath an aurora, wings opened wide inside a glowing portal, bathed in electric cyans and radiant purples: the colours of the coast after the sun slips away Created by Tarcila Neves for the Victoria at Dusk series, the piece was exhibited as an illuminated lightbox on the city's streets and in front of the Royal BC Museum, inviting passersby to pause at the hour when the shoreline's hidden magic reveals itself. An interactive Augmented Reality layer lets viewers watch the heron lift into motion - and in collaboration with Puzzle Lab, the artwork also takes shape as a wooden puzzle whose flowing curves echo her sweeping wings She is a reminder that wildness still moves through our cities, if we look up at the right hour.

HOW TO ACCESS THE AR EXPERIENCE

By scanning the QR code, opening the link, and allow camera and motion access, you can watch the im become alive through your screen.

Step 1: Scan QR code

Step 2: Allow camera and motion access

Step 3: Point phone camera at corresponding artwork (you may need to tilt your phone upright to see the moving image)

“Voices of Unity” by Tarcila Neves

FEATURED ARTWORK

“Voices of Unity”

The heart of my work is the belief that technology should serve as a bridge for the community "Voices of Unity," created for St Andrew’s-Wesley, is a physical testament to this The sculpture features a "heart of mirrors" and dozens of unique wooden pieces, each hand-painted by community members during collaborative workshops. To elevate these individual stories, I used machine learning and AR to animate the art. When viewers scan the sculpture, it "breathes" with life, playing music by local artists and providing an immersive layer that is invisible to the naked eye

“The heart of my work is the belief that technology should serve as a bridge for the community.”

Meaningful accessibility was built into the code of this project By using AR to provide audio descriptions and high-energy animations, I created a way for people with visual disabilities or ADHD to experience the artwork on a deeper, more intuitive level. This reflects my broader mission to democratize art - seen also in my Victoria at Dusk AR project. By scanning the QR code, opening the link, and allowing camera and motion access, you can watch the image become alive through your screen This accessible, web-based technology turns a city street into a magical, educational archive

The technical foundation for these projects was strengthened at Mars College in the California desert There, I developed custom software for mapping the vast, non-linear walls of the Painted Canyon Whether mapping a canyon or a community sculpture, my goal is always "Digital Sovereignty" - creating proprietary tools that empower local voices and ensure our shared public spaces remain vibrant, inclusive, and culturally rich

Get in touch:

Website: www artsnest net

Instagram: @tarcilaneves

Email: artnestinformation@g

WhatsApp Business: +1 778 878 2096

The 4th Annual Killarney Summer Concert Series

WRITTEN BY ARNIE CHANG

PHOTOS & POSTERS BY NHU-VAN CHUNG

The Killarney Summer Concert Series is back - and year four is going to be the best yet!

Summer in Vancouver just got a whole lot better. The Killarney Summer Concert Series is officially returning for its fourth incredible year, and we couldn’t be more excited to bring the community together for another season of unforgettable live music under the open sky

Here’s the best part: it’s completely free No tickets, no cover charge, no catches - just fantastic live music, warm summer evenings, and great company The Concert Series is proudly presented by the Killarney Community Centre Society, a non-profit organization committed to giving back to the neighbourhood we love.

This summer, five outstanding local party bands will take the stage at the Killarney Community Centre on Thursday evenings from July 23rd through August 20th, with every show running from 7pm to 9pm Come early, bring your friends, and get ready to dance

Thursday, July 23rd The Golden Archies

Kicking things off is The Golden Archies, a wily collection of friends and music veterans who are here to make you move. With a unique and varied song list of rock hits and deep tracks spanning the 60s to the 00s, this is the perfect way to launch the summer season

Thursday, July 30th Big City Soul

Ain’t no party like a Big City Soul party! This powerhouse 9-piece band brings hot vocals, super-tight musicianship, and a high-energy show that will have the whole crowd on their feet Music is the soul of the city - and Big City Soul delivers every single time

EveryThursday July23-August20 7:00PM–9:00PM

COMEENJOYTHESEFANTASTICFREESHOWS!

Thursday, August 6th

David Wills and the Dynamics

A highly popular Vancouver-based rock, soul, and R&B revue band, David Wills and the Dynamics are known for blending classic hits from the 1960s and 70s with modern retro-soul flair High energy, big sound, and serious grooves

Thursday, August 13th

Groove & Tonic Band

Known as Vancouver’s Party Band, Groove & Tonic earns that title every time they perform. Featuring some of the city’s finest talent, they deliver a high-energy mix of R&B, Disco, Funk, Rock, and Pop - old school and contemporary - with professionalism and groove to spare.

Thursday, August 20th Billy Dixon and his Soul Train Express

Closing out the series is a true legend Billy Dixon is a phenomenal singer and riveting performer who has assembled the best of the best for his Soul Train Express This is a closing night you absolutely do not want to miss

And while you’re enjoying the music, don’t forget to stop by Sixty2Sixty Eats, the Killarney Community Centre’s very own concession stand, serving up delicious treats and refreshing beverages all evening long. Come hungry, come thirsty, and come ready for a great time.

Mark your calendars Tell your neighbours This summer is going to be the best one yet

All concerts are held outdoors at the Killarney Community Centre. Free admission. No registration required.

A note about the weather: This is Vancouver, after all! In the event of rain, concerts will be moved indoors to our beautiful Grand Hall - so the show will always go on, rain or shine.

Killarney Community Centre 6260 Killarney Street, Vancouver www.killarneycentre.ca

Instagram: @killarneyccs

Facebook: Killarney Community Centre

WORDS & PHOTOS BY

RACHEL SEAY

Inner Fit Studios has been helping people move, feel stronger, and build confidence since 2007 Founded by Richmond fitness coach and educator Rachel Seay, Inner Fit was created with a simple mission: make fitness welcoming, effective, and accessible for real people

Unlike traditional gyms that can feel intimidating or overwhelming, Inner Fit was built around community. Whether someone is stepping into a fitness class for the very first time or has been exercising for years, they are welcomed into an environment where they can learn, grow, and succeed at their own pace.

Over the past 19 years, Inner Fit has evolved into one of Richmond's most established boutique fitness studios, offering a wide variety of small-group classes designed to improve strength, cardiovascular fitness, mobility, and overall health Programs include indoor cycling, strength training, Pilates, step aerobics, HYROX training, circuit training, HIIT workouts, mobility classes, yoga, and more.

As an Official HYROX Training Club, Inner Fit is helping local athletes and everyday fitness enthusiasts prepare for the Vancouver HYROX 2026 event. Whether the goal is simply crossing the finish line, competing with friends, or achieving a personal best, members have access to structured training programs designed for all fitness levels Our focus is on proper movement patterns, progressive training, strength development, and injury prevention, helping members train safely and consistently while building confidence along the way

prepare for Vancouver HYROX 2026 with smart, progressive training that builds confidence, strength, and endurance without breaking down their bodies in the process.

Willow, the Studio Pup

Willow is our studio pup who you may see from time to time. Saturday is usually her visiting day. She provides emotional support, cuddles, and keeps you focused on your workouts.

Located just minutes from the River District, Inner Fit is a quick right turn after crossing the Knight Street Bridge, making it an easy commute for Vancouver residents. In fact, approximately one-third of our members live in the River District or South Vancouver area and choose Inner Fit for its expert coaching, welcoming community, and results-driven programs

What truly sets Inner Fit apart is its people. The studio is known for its supportive atmosphere, knowledgeable coaching team, and members who genuinely encourage one another. Every class is designed with modifications and progressions so participants of all ages, fitness levels, and abilities can feel successful. Many members walk through the doors looking for a workout and something much more valuable: co accountability, and a community that wants to succeed.

Owner Rachel Seay has spent more than 25 yea fitness industry and is passionate about helpin build sustainable habits rather than chasing qu Her coaching philosophy focuses on con education, and creating an environment where feels empowering instead of punishing.

Today, Inner Fit continues to be a place where fr are built, goals are achieved, and people show up for their workout but for each other. From b starting their fitness journey to experienced training for events, everyone is welcome

At Inner Fit, fitness is about more than exercise creating a healthier, stronger, and more c community.

TikTok:

PRESENTED BY NEO ACADEMY

Giving Your Child a Strong Start Through Curiosity, Growth, and Discovery

The early years are some of the most important in a child's development, making the choice of an early learning centre one of the biggest decisions parents will make. For families in River District, Champlain Heights, and Killarney, Neo Academy offers a nurturing environment where children are encouraged to grow with confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning

Neo Academy combines research-based early childhood education with Montessori-inspired learning principles, creating engaging, hands-on experiences that encourage children to explore, discover, and think independently. Every child is recognized as a unique learner, with educators providing personalised guidance that supports cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development

The Academy's curriculum blends structured learning with play-based and inquiry-driven experiences that help children develop essential skills while having fun. Throughout the day, children build early literacy and numeracy skills, investigate science concepts, express themselves through visual arts, and enjoy music and movement activities. Just as importantly, they develop valuable life skills such as collaboration, resilience, communication, and problem-solving - helping prepare them for a successful transition to elementary school and beyond

Neo Academy offers programs designed to support children through every stage of early development, including Infants (10–24 months), Toddlers (24–36 months), and the 3-to-5-year-old program. Each program is thoughtfully tailored to meet the developmental needs of its age group while encouraging independence and confidence at every milestone

Parents will also appreciate the many thoughtful touches that make each day easier and more enjoyable. Nutritious meals and snacks are provided, giving children the energy they need to learn and play, while birthday celebrations help every child feel special and valued within the classroom community

At Neo Academy, families are viewed as important partners in a child's learning journey Through open communication and a caring, supportive environment, educators work closely with parents to help every child reach their full potential

Our mission is to provide a nurturing and educational environment where children can grow, explore, and develop into confident, curious learners. At Neo Academy, we believe that every child is unique and deserves individualized attention, care, and support in their early learning journey.

For families seeking more than just child care, Neo Academy offers an enriching educational experience where children are inspired to learn, explore, and thrive. It's a place where curiosity is encouraged, confidence is nurtured, and a strong foundation is built for success in school - and in life.

3380 Maquinna Drive, Vancouver (Champlain Heights) www.neoacademy.ca info@neoacademy.ca 604-412-0186

Instagram: @neoacademy vancouver

How many sea creatures can you count?

Cool Down at Boketto: Two Dream Sundaes Land This

WORDS

& PHOTOS

BY LINH NGUYEN

July

The River District dessert cafe Noms Magazine Ice Cream Festival for a fourth year with two limited-edition sundaes worth putting on your summer bucket list.

At Boketto Dessert Cafe, summer has a flavour, and this year it arrives by soft serve sundaes For the fourth year running, the River District dessert cafe is taking part in the Noms Magazine Ice Cream Festival, the city-wide celebration of all things frozen that runs through August 3rd Boketto is marking the occasion with two menus, and on July 8 the cafe turns the page to its second act: a fresh pair of limited-edition sundaes that run from launch day right up to the festival's final swirl. Both are unmistakably Boketto, drawing on the flavours of home and the cafe's flair for turning a simple scoop into something you photograph before you taste.

First up is the Mango Sticky Rice Dream Sundae, a love letter to the Southeast Asian classic it is named for. A twist of mango sorbet and vanilla soft serve forms the base, bright and creamy in equal measure. Pillowy mochi pieces rolled in toasted coconut add chew and a gentle crunch, while a generous drizzle of coconut cream pulls the whole thing together Crowning it all is Boketto's signature cloud meringue cookie, light as air and impossibly crisp

Then there is the Vietnamese Coffee Dream Sundae, built for anyone who takes their caffeine seriously. Boketto churns its coffee soft serve with Du Monde coffee, delivering the deep, roasty punch of a proper cà phê sữa đá A condensed milk drizzle brings that signature sweetness, house-made Dalgona adds a toasty, candied crackle, and, once again, the cloud meringue cookie floats on top It is dessert and afternoon pick-me-up in a single cup

“Both sundaes lean into the cafe's knack for pairing familiar flavours with a little theatre, the kind of thing that has made Boketto a fixture for the neighbourhood's young families and weekend wanderers alike.”

Both sundaes lean into the cafe's knack for pairing familiar flavours with a little theatre, the kind of thing that has made Boketto a fixture for the neighbourhood's young families and weekend wanderers alike. They are made for a slow afternoon in the River District: a sweet reason to catch up with a friend over the table, an after-school treat to share with the kids, or a little detour worth taking on a sunny day. And with the airport just minutes away, there are worse ideas than a final taste of the city before a flight. Returning to the festival year after year has become its own summer tradition here, and regulars have come to expect a new pair of creations each July

You will find Boketto Dessert Cafe at 3471 West Sawmill Crescent, open Monday through Thursday from 2 to 9 p m and Friday through Sunday from 11 a m to 10 p m The festival sundaes are available July 8th through August 3rd, but as with all good things in summer, they will not last forever. Catch them before the season melts away.

See you soon!

3471 Sawmill Crescent, Vancouver

Hours: Mon-Thurs 2pm-9pm, Fri-Sun 11am-10pm www.bokettoteabar.com hello@bokettoteabar.com Instagram: @bokettodessertcafe

PRESENTED BY WEST COAST WILD FOODS SALES & MARKETING TEAM

Hey River District!

We are thrilled to announce that West Coast Wild Foods is officially open for our Saturday market, every Saturday from 10am to 4pm all summer long!

While you're out enjoying the sunshine, stop by our shop to discover exclusive, in-store-only discounts on our specially selected range of fresh and frozen wild foods These special new lower prices are our little gift to our neighboursavailable only when you pop in to say hello

West Coast Wild Foods represents a tradition passed down through generations. It’s the result of a lifetime spent in the mountains and forests of British Columbia, exploring and learning about the wonderful wild mushrooms and other wild foods that our beautiful province has to offer

Right now, the Saturday market is showcasing some of the season's most sought-after specialty foods. Highlights include the long-awaited arrival of dried and fresh wild morel mushrooms, along with a premium dried wild mushroom mix featuring seven varieties, including chanterelles, porcini, lobster, and black trumpet mushrooms. Shoppers can also enjoy fresh wild sea beans (also known as sea asparagus), plus gourmet favourites like pickled fiddleheads, handcrafted jams, flavourful seasonings, and indulgent truffle products, including black truffle sauce and white truffle pesto

Because wild mushrooms depend entirely on weather conditions and natural availability, it's impossible to predict exactly how long they'll be in season, making each harvest a truly special event Customers can sign up for our newsletter at wcwf com to get a first look at our Saturday prices every Friday afternoon, plus insider updates on what's dropping next as the wild seasons change

From our roots as wild mushroom harvesters beginning as teenagers to our foundation in the wild mushroom industry working in the field as buying agents, we have grown into the premier wild foods company in Canada.

In the beginning we concentrated specifically on morel mushrooms, and we travelled the West Coast of Canada year after year searching for them From the Yukon Territories to Southern BC we harvested, bought, dried and processed our own morels for a growing group of customers both locally and overseas.

We forage our wild foods directly from nature, ensuring a unique flavour and premium quality that set them apart from farmed products Our foods are pesticide-free and offer distinct benefits We offer four main categories: fresh, dried, frozen, and specialty products.

Our Wild Tradition:

At West Coast Wild Foods, we are proud to carry on a tradition passed down through generations. We responsibly forage our wild foods directly from nature, ensuring a deep, unique flavour and premium quality that you simply can't find in farmed products. Always 100% pesticide-free, our sustainably sourced ingredients offer distinct health benefits.

We strive to offer natural, sustainably harvested wild products at the highest level of quality and value As we grow, we look forward to sharing our discoveries and our vision with you

We have gained a reputation throughout the world for the quality of our wild mushrooms, and over time we have grown our business to include many other types of wild mushrooms, wild berries and wild greens Our focus now is to bring this ever changing and growing line of wild food products to the public, and to make it as accessible as possible.

Just 5 minutes drive from River District!

Check out our delicious wild food recipes!

Nowadays, thanks to a collective effort, you can find our wild foods at various locations, including local stores, supermarkets, restaurants, and hotels.

You can also purchase directly from our storefront at 8835 Northbrook Court in Burnaby, plus we offer convenient order pickups Monday through Saturday, so you can schedule a time that fits perfectly into your week.

Prefer to shop online? We’ve got you covered at wcwf com

Visit us!

8835 Northbrook Court, Burnaby Store hours:

Monday – Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Saturday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Summer Market: Saturdays from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm wcwf com

604-270-1350 sales@westcoastwildfoods.com

Instagram: @westcoastwildfoods

Facebook: West Coast Wild Foods Ltd.

WRITTEN

PHOTOS

BY

EMILY GAUDETTE

BY

LINDA YAN

It’s never been more important to shop local and the New West Farmers Market has you covered At the market, you don’t have to check for import labels Everything you’ll find is made, foraged, or grown right here in British Columbia But that’s not all you’ll find there!

At first glance, a farmers market might seem like a romanticized grocery store. But the New West Farmers Market’s mission is far broader. It’s a community hub focused on increasing food security, strengthening our local food system and building community.

Through participation in the BC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program, the market helps redeem over $100,000 in coupons each season, stocking the pantries of neighbours experiencing food-insecurity with fresh, locally grown produce that’s often more nutrientdense thanks to minimal processing and reduced need for preservation. Those dollars have the double impact of directly uplifting the local producers who sell that produce.

Beyond access, the market plays a vital role in strengthening sustainable food production By supporting small-scale farms, which prioritize biodiversity over monocropping, the market ensures farmers receive a fairer share of profits while reducing our community’s carbon footprint It’s a direct investment in the future of local agriculture

The New West Farmers Market is also a place to gather. As a free and welcoming third space, it fosters connection across diverse communities through food, music, workshops, and shared experiences. It bridges the ruralurban divide, bringing producers and residents together to build meaningful, reciprocal relationships around something we all rely on: food.

It’s also an engine for local economic growth As a lowbarrier incubator for small businesses, the market gives entrepreneurs a place to get off the ground, get immediate feedback on new products, and build a loyal customer base. And the impact is real. 66 cents of every dollar spent at a small business stays in the local economy, compared to just 11 cents with multinational corporations. Local businesses recirculate 4.6 times more revenue within BC than chains do.

With 1,200+ weekly visitors, support for 150+ small businesses, and a $3 12 million annual economic impact, the New West Farmers Market is proof that shopping locally creates meaningful change

With 1,200+ weekly visitors, support for 150+ small businesses, and a $3.12 million annual economic impact, the New West Farmers Market is proof that shopping locally creates meaningful change.

Join us every Thursday from March 26 to October 29 in Tipperary Park Explore 45+ vendors offering farm-fresh produce, plants, artisan goods, prepared foods, food trucks, live entertainment, and more Bring the kids for Sprout Club activities in July and August, and bring a blanket to stay for a picnic dinner made by one of our vendors or rotating food trucks!

Sign up for a $10 Annual Membership to access exclusive discounts from 12+ vendors on the first market of each month. It usually pays for itself in one shop! Looking for more savings? Grab a Stamp Card at our info booth and be entered to win $50 in Market Money after every 5 visits!

Visit the New West Farmers Market every Thursday in Tipperary Park (right next to New Westminster City Hall) from 3 - 7 PM until October 29th!

See you there!

Tipperary Park (right next to New Westminster City Hall)

Every Thursday, March 26 - October 29 from 3-7pm

Website: newwestfarmers.ca

Instagram: @newwestfarmers

Facebook: New West Farmers Market

Email: info@newwestfarmers.ca

Coaching Corner with Brian Cady

The Cost of Staying the Same

As summer arrives, many people start thinking about the changes they want to make

It might be in business. It might be in a career. It might be health, finances, relationships, or simply how time is being spent.

Change usually has an obvious cost

It may cost money, time, energy, focus, or an uncomfortable conversation But staying the same has a cost too It is just easier to ignore

Another year of stress has a cost. Another year of working hard without getting ahead has a cost. Another year of avoiding an important decision has a cost Another year of missed opportunities has a cost

Whether the issue is business, career, leadership, or personal growth, the pattern is often the same. The longer something is avoided, the more expensive it becomes.

Small problems grow

Habits become harder to change

Opportunities pass

Energy gets drained by the same unresolved issue

The cost of change is usually visible The cost of staying the same is often hidden.

This summer, take ten minutes and ask yourself one question: What is it costing me to stay where I am? Write down the first three answers that come to mind

Awareness creates clarity, and clarity creates better decisions

If you would like an outside perspective, I offer a complimentary 30-minute coaching conversation to help identify what is working, what is not, and where your biggest opportunities may be.

Brian Cady

Certified Professional Coach Effectus Coaching Group

www effectuscoaching group

Office 604-416-2619

Mobile 604-328-9309

“The cost of change is usually visible. The cost of staying the same is often hidden.”

What is it costing me to stay where I am?

Write down the first three answers that come to mind

Start with a complimentary coaching session Take the step!

WORDS

& PHOTOS BY

MALLORY GLADMAN

GRAPHICS

BY

RYH DESIGN

The Soda Fest is coming back this fall to the Sapperton district in New Westminster! Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 13th from 11:00am-5:00pm at Sapperton Park and Field This event celebrates local craft soda and nonalcoholic beverages with a day of family fun, beverage tastings, live music, and community connection The Soda Fest is hosted by Sapperton Business Collective (SBC) in partnership with the City of New Westminster, Heartberry Soda, City to Suburb Realty, ShareWares and Tourism New West.

This event celebrates local craft soda and nonalcoholic beverages with a day of family fun, beverage tastings, live music, and community connection.

So… who is SBC? We are a collective of local business owners striving to support the local businesses in the Sapperton and Brunette Creek areas in New Westminster. Our mission is to empower and support the vibrant business community in the Sapperton and Brunette Creek neighbourhoods of New Westminster. As a not-for-profit organization, we are dedicated to fostering economic growth, creating opportunities for collaboration, and ensuring that our neighbourhood continues to thrive as a welcoming, inclusive, and innovative place to live, work, and play

Last fall, we put on the first-ever Soda Fest, which brought out over 1,000 participants on a beautiful September day. This year, we are coming back bigger and better with more local soda companies, live music, and now more local business vendors of all kinds! We want to celebrate all the amazing business offerings in Sapperton, from boutique shops to great restaurants and pubs. The historic Sapperton district is a family-friendly neighbourhood that is full of unique charm This annual event helps create more visibility to our amazing community and shops in a super fun way!

Along with being an economic driver, our events aim to be as sustainable as possible Some Zero Waste Initiatives we implement at The Soda Fest include partnering with ShareWares for our reusable tasting cups experience, having minimal waste from vendors except soda cans (collectible and recyclable deposits), and zero generators (live music power and no food trucks allowed).

The search is on for vendors and collaborators for this event! It takes a village to create a successful community festival, from sponsors and vendors to volunteers. If you would like to be a part of this event and learn more, please reach out to events@visitsapperton.com.

We appreciate your support and involvement. Let’s make this year’s festival amazing!

Vendor Application & Sponsorship Opportunities: Please email Mallory at events@visitsapperton.com

Volunteer Opportunities: volunteersignup.org/7EXCT

Website: www visitsapperton com/the-soda-fest/ Instagram: @visitsapperton

Meet our Feature Pet

WORDS BY ARNIE CHANG

IMAGES BY ARNIE CHANG, @SO PAW PHOTOS & KATHERINE GONZALEZ, VANCOUVER PET PHOTOGRAPHY

By the time this issue reaches you, Gus will be celebrating his fifth birthday - a milestone for a dog who has become nothing short of a River District heart throb. As a proud Labernese, half Labrador and half Bernese Mountain Dog, Gus carries his 100 plus pounds with the confidence of a gentle giant who knows he’s adored. And despite his Labrador roots, he is one of the rare Labernese who does not swim If you ever meet one who does, Gus would love to hear about this mythical creature, ideally while sharing snacks

The River District is the only home Gus has ever known, and he has embraced it like a neighbourhood celebrity His daily walks are part parade, part social hour, and part “Gus checking if anyone dropped food.” He enthusiastically greets his long list of friends: Bailey, Bobby, Olly, Tonka, Keda, Domino, Otto, Lucy, Bishop, Sophie, Jack, Fin, Georgie, Charlie, Balu, Molly, Colby, Tory, Peter, Duke, Alder - and many more If anyone was missed, Gus sends his apologies along with a hopeful sniff of your pockets Gus even has family nearby His older half brother, Atlas, also lives in the River District, and the resemblance is so strong that “Is that Atlas?” and “Are you Gus?” have become part of their daily soundtrack. They take it in stride - after all, they are essentially the Hemsworth brothers of the local dog world.

What truly defines Gus is his enormous heart. He loves his people deeply, thrives on attention, and will never turn down a belly rub. And among his absolute favourite humans is his neighbour Teryl Rothery - Gus practically melts into a puddle the moment he sees her, as if she personally invented affection

But above all else - above walks, cuddles, and even his beloved friends - Gus loves food He is famously food obsessed, rumoured to be missing the gene that tells him he’s full His favourite place after the River District itself is Bosley’s River District Special shoutout to Antonia, who Gus absolutely adores and who he believes holds the keys to the Treat Kingdom.

If you spot Gus on one of his walks, please say hello. He loves people, he loves attention, and he loves being the neighbourhood heart throb. But most of all, he loves his Aunty Pam - and his mom and dad equally, especially if they’re holding snacks

Gus’s Top 5 Favourite Places:

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