Request for Proposals: Patio Furniture Designed by Local Carpenters/Woodworkers/Artists | Deadline: August 12

 Deadline: Friday, August 12, 2022 | 3 PM PT

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre, operated by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), is requesting proposals from local carpenters/woodworkers/artists to design furniture for an outdoor patio space.

The Tourism Inspiration Centre is a visitor centre located at the gateway to the Okanagan, on Highway 97C (Okanagan Connector) above Peachland. The centre welcomes over 40,000 international and domestic visitors per season, as well as local community members for special events. This year, the Tourism Inspiration Centre installed a new public patio space, overlooking Okanagan Lake and perfect for viewing performance art from the IArT Venue stage.

Information for Proponents

Deliverables:

• Work closely with the Tourism Inspiration Centre Manager and Indigenous Specialist for TOTA to ensure scope of project follows intended outcomes and results,

• Design, source materials, and build six (6) picnic table/bench sets, and six (6) Adirondack style chairs with locally inspired indigenous artwork and weatherproofing to ensure long-term protection from elements,

• Incorporate section of table for sponsor logos to be displayed on interchangeable plaques,

• Picnic tables should be approximately 8 feet in length and built from locally sourced wood in a stable fashion that prevents tipping (refer to examples below),

• Two of the picnic tables will be built to accommodate wheelchair users (extended table tops on ends - see photo 2),

• Tables and benches should be separate from the table (not attached) from each other to be moved and utilized as individual pieces,

• Work within the timeframe outlined and agreed upon for project start and completion.

Example of Table, Bench, and Chair Concepts

Requirements

• Carpenter/artist with related experience residing, operating, or with personal history in the Thompson Okanagan region.

• Work closely with TOTA Tourism Inspiration Centre Manager to ensure scope of project follows intended outcomes and results within the timeframe outlined and agreed upon for project start and completion.

Delivery of Proposals

Deadline: Friday, August 12, 2022 | 3 PM PT

Proposals are to be submitted to the emails provided below with the following information:

• Attachment of a cover letter including name, address, and contact information.

• Resume which outlines past experience and projects.

• Five (5) examples/photos of similar work or projects including style of art

• Three (3) reference contacts for clients from similar work or projects, and

• Conceptual drawings of initial ideas based on information included in the project deliverables below.

All inquiries and submissions should be directed to:

Barbara Bonnough

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre Manager

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)

Barbara@TOTABC.com | (778) 752-5877

 CC:

Jamie Bourne

Indigenous Tourism Specialist

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)

Jamie@TOTABC.com | (778) 760-2965

Selection Process

Submissions will be reviewed by a committee and up to four (4) shortlisted artists will be invited to the next stage of the selection process. 

The committee will evaluate applications on the basis of:

• Artistic excellence, skill, innovation and merit, as evidenced in samples of previous work.

• Qualifications and professional experience based on references of the carpenter/artist.

• Demonstrated ability of the carpenter/artist to execute a project of this scale under the budget and timeline set out.

• Representation of and connection to local Thompson Okanagan region

Shortlisted artists will be invited to respond to a detailed Request for Proposal package, including schedule of completion of project and budget.

TOTA Board Election: Early Call for Nominations

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) will hold the 2022 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday, October 13, 2022.

Leading up to the AGM, the Board Election will take place as follows:

• Monday, July 18: Early Call for Nominations

• Friday, July 29: Official Call for Nominations Begins

• Friday, August 12: Close of Nominations

• Tuesday, August 30: Electronic Voting Begins

• Wednesday, September 14: Close of Electronic Voting

• Thursday, October 13: TOTA AGM & Board Meeting

On behalf of TOTA Nominating Committee Chair, Frank Antoine, we invite Thompson Okanagan tourism professionals to put their name forward or nominate a qualified candidate (see Eligibility Requirements below) to serve as a member of the TOTA Board of Directors for a two-year term, effective September 29, 2022.

The tourism industry faced tremendous challenges over the past two years, and the TOTA Board of Directors was committed to guiding TOTA to support regional tourism stakeholders. Going forward, there is much work to be done as we reimagine and rebuild a resilient, sustainable tourism industry in the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia.

For 2022, TOTA is seeking to fill eight board positions with enthusiastic and energetic tourism professionals representing a wide range of the Thompson Okanagan’s tourism sectors, communities, and perspectives. The TOTA board is eager to explore new ideas and learn from people with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

TOTA board members commit to a two-year term, with the following schedule:

• Regular board meetings and board retreat (four meetings / year)

• Option to join the Finance & Audit Committee (four calls / year)

• Option to join the Governance Committee (four calls / year)

The board will elect board members to serve the executive positions of Secretary-Treasurer, Vice-Chair, and Chair.

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Eligibility Requirements

Based on the TOTA Constitution & Bylaws, to nominate/vote and to qualify as a Board Nomination Candidate, the company or organization must meet the following criteria:

• A tourism stakeholder in good standing with TOTA.

• Must have participated in a TOTA marketing program or provided in-kind value in the amount of $100 or more within 12 months prior to the call for nominations on Friday, July 29, 2022.

• Nomination submitted in writing, signed by four voting members other than the nominee.

Community DMOs may serve on the board, however cannot hold an executive position.

For questions and to confirm voting member and board candidate eligibility, please email TOTA Board Liaison Chelsea Travere at Chelsea@TOTABC.com.

Run in the TOTA Board Election

If you or someone you know is interested to run in the TOTA board election and meets the criteria outlined above, please submit a signed nomination form to TOTABC.org/AGM/election by Friday, August 12, 2022.

Nominations cannot be accepted after the deadline.

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About TOTA

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a not-for-profit society governed by the BC Societies Act. TOTA is one of six Regional Destination Management Organizations (RDMO) in the province of British Columbia that work under the Super, Natural British Columbia brand as an official representative of Destination British Columbia and whose mandate includes Industry Development, Destination Marketing, Destination Stewardship, and Destination Development.

Learn more at TOTABC.org.

TOTA Access & Inclusion Liaison Tour of Boundary Country

In the summer of 2020, TOTA partnered with the Christina Lake Welcome Centre to visit Boundary Country on an Accessible FAM tour, and experience many accessible and inclusive activities and attractions that this beautiful region has to offer.

It was an adventure packed full of endless fun and possibilities, such as:

• Museums in Midway and Greenwood

• Gallery 2 in Grand Forks

• Culinary experiences at the The Wooden Spoon, The Board Room Cafe, Christina Lake Marina Grill & Deli, and the Christina Lake Golf Course

• Adaptive mountain biking adventures on the KVR with Wild Ways

• Glow golf at Cascade Par3 Golf Course

• Discovering Indigenous pictographs on Christina Lake on a boat tour 

With so much to do and see in the Boundary Country, the team stayed for a while and rested between experiences in the comfortable and accessible accommodations at the New Horizon Motel in Christina Lake.

The positive vibes and inclusive energy and atmosphere that we felt on our journey through Boundary Country made it clear that tourism operators are striving to make their experiences and adventures accessible and inclusive for all.

With a team of passionate community leaders, and through the Enabling Accessibility Youth Innovation Component funding opportunity, a Mobi-Mat (wheelchair accessible beach mat) and beach wheelchair was acquired to create and increase accessibility on the beach and to the lake at the Christina Lake Provincial Park.

Beach Wheelchair

Mobi-Mat

To some degree and at some point in everyone’s life, we will all require an accessible feature to continue enjoying adventures alongside family and friends.  

Although all of our physical environments may never be completely accessible, we can create an emotional connection where acceptance, integration, and inclusion can ignite the realization and the understanding of “why” our physical spaces and environments need to be accessible. 

Let’s make it our collective responsibility to support and uplift everyone in our communities regardless of their age, ability, gender, or culture. This can simply begin with an inclusive attitude and mindset, allowing that to be the catalyst towards building and creating physical environments that are accessible for everyone to enjoy.

Whatever your level of adventure is, there are accessible and inclusive experiences waiting to be discovered in Boundary Country!

Sustainable Companies in the Thompson Okanagan Now Listed in Biosphere Search Engine of Sustainable Consumer Choices

Biosphere has launched a new website, BiosphereSustainable.com, allowing people to easily learn about the good practices and sustainable efforts of companies and destinations around the world. The website has listings of companies participating in the global Biosphere Community and transparently shows contributions to the fulfilment of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda.

Companies that are part of the Biosphere Community, including companies in the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, can showcase their sustainability efforts through the new website so people around the world can quickly and easily search and discover their work to improve local life, environment, economy, employment, education, ecosystems, and other sustainability issues.

The Biosphere system is an independent, objective, impartial, and transparent verification methodology with an external auditing team of professionals to validate the sustainable efforts implemented by each entity, based on the indicators, criteria, objectives, and sustainability goals of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The website is adapted for those with general knowledge in sustainability, to help people make responsible, ethical, and sustainable consumption decisions. With more informed and aware societies, it will become easier for each person's consumption decisions to reflect their values, achieving a real involvement on the part of society to act more responsibly and adopt more sustainable models.

Visit BiosphereSustainable.com Website →

View Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Company Listings →

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For more information about the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, visit TOTABC.org/biosphere-commitment or email Biosphere@TOTABC.com.

Interested in Joining the Biosphere Commitment Program?
Book a Biosphere Introduction Presentation →

For Biosphere Committed Companies:
Book a Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle Platform Walkthrough →

Universal Design Washroom Renovation at Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre

Renovations are well underway at the TOTA Tourism Inspiration Centre, and Access and Inclusion are top of mind. 

TOTA is excited to announce the Accessible and Universal Design Washroom Renovation for the Tourism Inspiration Centre above Peachland on the Highway 97C Connector. 

The visitor centre has been operating in this location since 1986 and has undergone significant renovations and additions that began in the fall of 2021. Included in these renovations is the creation of a new single use fully accessible and universal washroom, from a pre-existing storage room. The washroom was completed by the centre’s opening day, May 18, 2022, to welcome ALL visitors and offer yet another valuable accessible feature to the building. 

The renovation project was made possible through funding from the Enabling Accessibility Fund Youth Stream, as well as funding from the BC Rehab Foundation. TOTA put forward the remainder of the renovation costs to complete the project. 

TOTA collaborated with Access & Inclusion Liaison, Sonja Gaudet, to ensure the washroom design meets best practices and accessibility guidelines. The project construction was awarded to local construction contractors, Wolverine Industries from Kelowna.

Creating accessible spaces and environments allows equal opportunity and full inclusion for EVERYONE - regardless of age, size, ability, culture, or gender - and it nurtures a sense of belonging and wellbeing for ALL.

Welcoming everyone to participate in the services, products, and experiences that you have to offer, starts with addressing the following three key priority accessible features:

• Designated accessible parking spaces with an access aisle

• Easy and safe access from the parking area to the main entrance

• Accessible and/or universally designed washroom

Here is a document that will get you started on your accessibility journey one accessible feature at a time:

Accessible & Inclusive Tourism Experiences - Key Priorities

Wheelchair Accessibility Consultations

TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program includes a wheelchair accessibility consultation and resources to assist in creating better access and inclusion within your tourism experiences.

Register for Biosphere Commitment Program →

Access and Inclusion are not only what we build into our physical environment.

It is a collective positive energy and attitude that can be felt upon entering any environment.

It transcends directly from the heart and creates a welcoming feeling of belonging and freedom.  

This powerful and open mindset towards full integration, inspires meaningful and authentic connections with one another, enriching the lives of EVERYONE along its path.

Humans long for integration and full participation - to live, work, play and travel with and alongside family and friends!

Host an Event at the Indigenous Artisan’s Trail (IArT) Venue near Peachland

The Indigenous Artisan’s Trail (IArT) Venue is now available to companies and entrepreneurs to reserve for events, free of charge, from July to October 2022.

Operated by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) Indigenous Tourism Program, IArT is located at the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre on Route 97, above Peachland (3960 BC-97C).

IArT can be reserved for single or multiple days to be used for public or private events, such as:

• Meetings

• Workshops

• Markets

• Artist studio, gallery, and retail space

• Performance art with music and dancing

• Food and beverage tastings

• And more…

The IArT Venue comes with a secure, air conditioned, accessible indoor space with an outdoor stage facing the Tourism Inspiration Centre patio and seating area. The Tourism Inspiration Centre has a parking, bathrooms, and storage.

Public events will be featured on the ThompsonOkanagan.com and social channels.

To schedule your event, submit an Expression of Interest form or email Indigenous@TOTABC.com with any questions.

About IArT

Indigenous Artisan’s Trail (IArT) is a collaboration between TOTA and Indigenous Tourism BC launched in 2019 to connect visitors to Interior Salish arts and culture in the Thompson Okanagan. IArT has hosted exhibits in partnership with the Rotary Centre of the Arts and UBC Okanagan, as well as art and jewelry created by Indigenous artists outside the Kelowna Art Gallery.

In 2022, IArT is available to rent to host events related to tourism, arts, and culture at the Tourism Inspiration Centre.

About the Tourism Inspiration Centre

The Tourism Inspiration Centre is the second busiest visitor centre in the Thompson Okanagan region, attracting over 45,000 people traveling to and from the Okanagan Valley. The venue is a perfect destination for connecting people from various communities in the Thompson Okanagan, enabling groups to meet in the middle.

The Tourism Inspiration Centre and IArT Venue are a short drive from several Thompson Okanagan communities, such as:

• 10 minutes from Peachland

• 30 minutes from Kelowna and Westbank First Nation

• 45 minutes from Penticton and Penticton Indian Band

• 1.25 hours from Merritt and Lower Nicola Indian Band

• 1.5 hours from Vernon and and Okanagan Indian Band

• 1.5 hours from Osoyoos and Osoyoos Indian Band

• 1.5 hours from Princeton and Upper Similkameen Indian Band

• 2 hours from Kamloops and Tk'emlups te Secwepemc

• 2 hours from Salmon Arm and Splatsin First Nation

To get a quote and schedule your event, submit an Expression of Interest form or email Indigenous@TOTABC.com with any questions.

Energy Efficiency Tips: About Renewable Natural Gas (RNG)

Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) will play a significant role in decarbonising businesses by leveraging existing gas pipeline systems.

Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) is made from organic waste produced by everyday activities. As organic matter such as food decomposes, it releases biogas which when cleaned produces methane, also known as Natural Gas. As this methane is produced through organic resources it is considered completely biogenic or carbon neutral. 

FortisBC is offering renewable and low carbon gases to customers as part of the 30BY30 target to reduce its customers’ greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 30 per cent by 2030 in support of the CleanBC Roadmap to 2030.

To learn more about renewable natural gas and other ways to reduce your business' carbon footprint, register for a free Energy Assessment or connect with TOTA’s Energy Analyst at Energy@TOTABC.com.

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Energy Efficiency Tips: About Heat Pumps

A heat pump is an energy efficient alternative to furnaces and baseboard heaters. Heat pumps act like reverse refrigerators transferring heat from a cool space to a warm place. Alternatively heat pumps can also work as air conditioners.

During the cool weather, heat pumps move heat from cool space outdoors to warm the indooars.

During the cooling season, heat pumps move heat from the indoors into the outdoor space.

As heat pumps transfer heat rather than generate heat, they can be quite efficient as compared to traditional heating systems. 

If interested, you can connect with the TOTA Energy Analyst who can help you in finding the right energy efficiency solution for your business and inform you of the various rebates available from FortisBC.

Learn More →

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Thompson Okanagan Tourism Board of Directors Working On Moving Tourism Forward

(Kelowna, B.C.) June 9, 2022 - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) Board of Directors and Senior Staff members of the association met on June 8, 2022 at the Summerland Waterfront Resort for their first in-person board meeting since October 2021 and only their second in-person meeting since February 2020.

"While the board has continued to meet virtually and work tirelessly over the past two years, nothing can replace the dynamics and creativity of face-to-face dialogue," said TOTA Board Chair Michael J. Ballingall.

"The challenges the tourism industry has faced and continues to deal with are immense and will take innovation, collaboration, and partnership to help deal with post-pandemic recovery, supply shortages, and labour challenges. It has never been more important to come together to build a resilient and sustainable industry," said Ballingall. "We have to recognize that things are not going back to "how they once were" nor, in fact, do we want them to. We must incorporate a new way of thinking to build forward and better for the long term."

TOTA has been a leader in encouraging the implementation of sustainability plans and practices since the release of its 10-year Regional Strategy "Embracing Our Potential" in 2012. In 2017, the Thompson Okanagan region became the first Biosphere Certified Destination in the Americas, a program that is part of the Responsible Tourism Institute and built around the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Since then, the other regions that form the British Columbia Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS) including Kootenay Rockies Tourism, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism, Northern BC Tourism and 4VI (previously Tourism Vancouver Island) have all become Biosphere Certified Destinations, as well as Destination Greater Victoria.

There are several ways to get involved with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, including:

• Register as a stakeholder

• Join the Biosphere Commitment Program

• Run in the Board of Directors Election

For more information, visit TOTABC.org or contact TOTA at Info@TOTABC.com.

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Background

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests of the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. TOTA is supported by and representative of Destination British Columbia and the B.C. Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport.

TOTA is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies.

Learn more at TOTABC.org.

National AccessAbility Week & Accessibility Ambassadors in the Okanagan

National AccessAbility Week (NAAW) is being celebrated from May 29 to June 4, with the theme: “Inclusive from the start.”

Join in to celebrate the valuable contributions and leadership of Canadians with disabilities; highlight the work of individuals, organizations and communities who are removing barriers, and reflect on our ongoing efforts to become a better, more accessible, more disability inclusive Canada.

Learn More →

View Promotion Toolkit →

As part of the celebration, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and Spinal Cord Injury BC (SCI BC) will have accessibility ambassadors on the ground next week, collecting information for the AccessNow app on the main streets in Kelowna, Penticton, and Vernon.

The AccessNow app is a go-to resource for accessibility information, built on a connected platform that empowers all people to discover a world of accessible opportunities, make travel decisions, and remove barriers. The app has over 200K places rated in 35 countries, including restaurants, shops, hotels, attractions, trails, and parks.

AccessNow has a growing community of people who believe in an accessible future. Anyone is welcome to get involved through mapping, reviewing, beta testing, outreach, and storytelling.

Tourism businesses can claim their listing and let people know what to expect when visiting.

Claim Your Listing →

South Okanagan Food & Drink Experience Development Program Event: Tasting the Okanagan Through the Ages

Chef Aman Dosanj

Food & Drink Experience Development Pilot Program

The Culinary Tourism Alliance (CTA), in collaboration with Destination British Columbia (DBC) and the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), delivered a Food & Drink Experience Development Pilot Program in the South Okanagan. The pilot program initiated in May 2021 and concluded in February 2022.

Goals of the Experience Development Pilot Program

1. To support selected businesses with the creation and delivery of a new, market-

   ready food & drink experience to offer both locals and visitors to the South

   Okanagan

2. To contribute to the development of new food tourism experiences that will add

   to the destination’s overall value proposition, help visitors connect to the region

   in a more meaningful way, and encourage repeat visitation and referral

3. To summarize learnings from the experience development pilot program that

   may inform future experience development supports provided by DBC, which

   align with the implementation of the Invest in Iconics Strategy across British

   Columbia.

The first participant, Covert Farms Family Estate Winery, has now launched their event they created during this pilot program. Their event Tasting the Okanagan Through the Ages is an immersive dining experience with Chef Aman Dosanj of the Paisley Notebook pop-up series.

Tasting the Okanagan Through the Ages

The night will begin with a welcome reception, where guests can take their seat and enjoy free time to play farm games and explore. Next, you will hop aboard their vintage cherry red trucks for an open-air tour of their regenerative farm and vineyards. Here, they will discuss the rich history of the Syilx Okanagan Nation and neighboring Indigenous cultural site nʕaylintn, and then forage for traditional plants, some of which will be featured in the night’s dishes.

Chef Aman will guide guests through each of her incredible dishes along with the ingredients used, including organic fruits and vegetables grown right here on our farm and meats raised at the estate. Each dish will be paired with Covert Farms Estate wines by winemaker and farmer, Gene Covert, all of which are made with regenerative viticulture practices, using minimal intervention and natural fermentation when possible.

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Recap of IMPACT Sustainable Tourism Conference 2022

Last week, several TOTA team members attended the annual IMPACT Sustainable Tourism Conference in Victoria. The spirit of this internationally informed, Canadian-focused event is to educate, unite, commit, and take action towards the development of tourism as a financial and social force for good. Monitoring and measuring success through the lens of environment, community, culture, and economy (also known as planet, people and prosperity by the BC Ministry of Tourism, Art, Culture, and Sport).

Over the course of 2.5 days and more than 20 sessions, the conference presented the sustainability challenges faced by the tourism industry worldwide. Inspiring examples were shared of companies working towards regenerative tourism, and they called on tourism professionals to commit to meaningful action.

Key highlights from IMPACT:

Regenerative Tourism

The COVID-19 pandemic and climate change have converged to cause great disruption, however we are now in the midst of what is being referred to as the  Great Restart, an opportunity to reassess the ways in which we do business and refocus efforts to prepare for the future.

This requires significant intentional change and an urgency to incorporate sustainable and regenerative practices into the core of business planning and operations.

Tourism can strive to regenerate - meaning to protect and strengthen - land and communities, creating net positives for both. Working collectively, we can minimize the negative impacts and amplify the many benefits, to be equitably enjoyed by residents and guests.

What does regenerative tourism look like in action?

• Work to attract “High Values Guests,” meaning visitors that generally stay longer, support local businesses, and strive to minimize their individual impact on the destination and community.

• Incorporate sustainable technology and practices into your business that improve the guest experience and reduce costs.

• Make it easy to choose and provide education for guests to reduce carbon emissions, such as lower emission transportation methods, foods, and energy sources.

• Employ creative thinking around partnerships and collaboration, job sharing, and cross training to attract tourism professionals seeking full time, long-term employment.

• Industry certifications and frameworks which help destinations and companies build a foundation of practices that meet (or exceed) industry sustainability standards and communicate commitments to partners and customers.

• Collaborate with the scientific community to better understand tourism’s positive and negative impact. For example, researchers could study aspects of the tourism business to make improvements and help develop educational tourism experiences that share their knowledge and appreciation with guests.

• Develop infrastructure and experiences that help to lengthen the tourism season and encourage dispersion.

Indigenous Reconciliation

Indigenous reconciliation was woven throughout the entire conference, and underscored the importance of DMOs and businesses developing an Indigenous strategy and creating relationships with local nations working in collaboration to share stories and promote Indigenous services and experiences.

How can tourism be a powerful cultural and economic tool to take action towards reconciliation? Some examples for non-Indigenous entities include:

• Work to learn from Indigenous people and the sustainable practices at the core of their way of life

• Acknowledge the local nation and their history in tourism experiences and content.

• Become a Friend of Indigenous Tourism BC to begin collaboration towards mutual success and that contribute to reconciliation through the support of Indigenous tourism.

• Create an Indigenous Ally Program and share a portion of profits with local Indigenous bands, which can provide reliable income to employ Indigenous forest guardians.
  

Thompson Okanagan Commitment to Regenerative Tourism

While sustainability has been a key aspect of TOTA’s destination management strategy since 2012, it’s inspiring to see sustainability develop as the foundation of tourism in British Columbia, Canada, and other destinations around the world.

The TOTA team is eager to further incorporate regenerative tourism best practices into the Thompson Okanagan region, in order to continue as a competitive tourism destination and inspire others to plan the future of their destination through a sustainability lens.

If you want to discuss sustainable tourism and how your business can get started or build on an existing foundation, contact the TOTA Destination Stewardship team at Biosphere@TOTABC.com.

Job Opportunity: TOTA Communications Coordinator (Summer Intern Program) | Apply by June 17

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is seeking to hire a Communications Coordinator for a summer internship program. The Communications Coordinator will work with the Corporate Communications Specialist to support the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry communications by creating content for news updates, email newsletters, webpages, and social media content.

The position is based on a Canada Summer Jobs Grant and is limited to an 8-12 week internship, with the option to work remotely full-time or part-time from the TOTA office in Kelowna. The position also includes time as a Visitor Counsellor at the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre located above Peachland on the Coquihalla Connector.

Candidates must be able to travel to the TOTA office, team events, and Tourism Inspiration Centre as needed.

Please send cover letter and resume to HR@TOTABC.com by June 17.

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

New Biosphere Committed Company, Codfather’s Seafood Market

Jon and Anne-Marie Crofts, Owners of Codfather’s Seafood Market

Codfather’s Seafood Market has been operating in Kelowna for over 30 years and operates a traditional Fishmongers shop as well as supplying restaurants in the Okanagan and beyond with high quality seafood. Operating out of a small space in the Guisachan Village on Gordon Drive in Kelowna, they are a family run business and pride themselves on making a big impact out of a small space.

“We decided to join the Biosphere Commitment Program because we needed a way to ensure that we take every opportunity to progress and look at every area of our business in terms of sustainability. We felt that this would lead to real and measurable improvement for us.”

- Jon Crofts, Codfather’s Seafood Market

Sustainability for Codfather’s as a seafood business has always been tied closely to the ethics of seafood harvesting and growing, and the way that fisheries are organized and monitored. Sustainability is more than just an eco-label, it also comes from the heart and should never be driven by the desire to profit in any other way than to ensure that a livelihood and thriving ecosystem is still available for all the generations to come.

Lack of equitable access and corporate monopolisation have become huge problems when it comes to sustainability, with “Ocean Grabbing” prevalent throughout the world. Through their work with the Slow Fish organization, they fight against these problems in various guises constantly. They also believe firmly in the value of local co-management of fisheries by Coastal and inland watershed communities. Codfather’s works towards this through their involvement with the “Fisheries for Communities” campaign.

Sustainable Energy Tips for Tourism Businesses

Energy is used every day to modulate temperature, light indoor and outdoor environments, heat water, and run appliances.

According to Natural Resource Canada more than 60% of the total energy consumption in a building is utilized for space heating.

The following energy efficiency tips can help in reducing your business’ energy consumption and will bring added benefits of cost saving and reducing your carbon footprint:

• Regularly maintain and replace worn caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors to seal gaps and cracks. 

• Install programmable thermostat to turn down the heat to about 17 degree Celsius after business hours and in unoccupied or less frequently used areas. 

• Upgrade to LED lighting to enhance your indoor atmosphere and save energy costs. 

• Replace standard incandescent bulbs with Energy Star rated LED bulbs and T12 fluorescent lamps and high performance T8 or LED lighting. 

• Have appliances serviced regularly to keep them operating safely and efficiently.

Schedule a Complimentary Energy Assessment →

Special Press Event for the Green Wine Future Conference on April 20, 2022

Wednesday, April 20, 2022 | 2:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Reception: 2:30 PM
Presentation: 3:00 PM

BC Wine Information Centre
553 Vees Dr, Unit 101, Penticton

Hosted by
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and Green Wine Future

Guest Speaker: Pancho Campo

Pancho Campo is a world renowned wine expert, environmental activist and entrepreneur who has worked with celebrities such as President Obama, Sting, VP Al Gore, Enrique Iglesias, and many others.

Limited Availability. Attendance by Registration Only.

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) together with our partners at Destination BC and several regional stakeholders are very pleased to be part of Green Wine Future Conference 2022, taking place virtually on May 23-26. Recognizing the challenges and undeniable impacts of climate change worldwide, this conference, now in its eight year, will bring multiple leaders from around the globe together to discuss how each is working to address the issues.

As part of the conference, this month TOTA is hosting Pancho Campo, founder of Wine for the Planet and the Green Wine Future event, in the Thompson Okanagan region to film a documentary highlighting the dedication of our wine, culinary, and tourism industry to implementing strategies and business practices to help combat the climate crisis.

TOTA and Wine for the Planet invite you to join us for the Canadian Press Event officially launching our participation in this May conference on April 20, 2022 at 2:30 PM.

At the press conference, you will hear directly from Pancho and learn of his work around the world. He will offer insights of what to expect at this year's Green Wine Future Conference.

You will also have the opportunity to hear from several industry leaders and enjoy a small sampling of some of the area's various wine varietals.

We look forward to your attendance. Please RSVP as soon as possible as numbers will be limited. 

Visit TOTA & go2HR at TRUE Penticton Tourism Expo & Job Fair

TOTA and go2HR team members will be at the TRUE Penticton Tourism Expo & Job Fair on Saturday, April 9, ready to meet with attendees.

Come say hello to our team members and learn about programs available to support tourism businesses and professionals, such as:

• TOTA marketing programs

• Biosphere Commitment Program

• Hospitality Professional Program by TOTA and Okanagan College

• Accessible & Inclusive Tourism

• Indigenous Tourism

• Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre

• go2HR employer and job seeker supports and industry training programs, including the go2HR Job Board

This FREE tourism event will give you a unique opportunity to meet with local tourism businesses and learn more about The Remarkable Unique Experiences that keep visitors coming back to Penticton year after year. Discover new adventures and reacquaint yourself with all of the amazing activities, attractions, accommodations, restaurants, wineries, breweries, cideries, events and so much more happening in and around Penticton.

This is also a great opportunity to bring your resume and find the perfect summer job, volunteer opportunity, or a career in the tourism and hospitality industry.

Attendees can enter to win a variety of prizes. The TOTA prizes are:

• Sustainable Travel Box from Okanagan Valley Vagabonds, curated with eco-conscious travel items.

• Two bracelets from Jewels of HOPE, which supports vulnerable women in the Okanagan to gather in a safe place to learn artisanal bracelet making skills that help them transition to further employment and educational opportunities.

Learn More & Register →

Tourism Leadership Essentials 7-Week Program | Applications Open Until April 8

April 12 – May 26, 2022

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6 PM - 8 PM

Application Deadline: April 8, 2022

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is partnering with Okanagan College to offer the Tourism Leadership Essentials Program for Thompson Okanagan tourism professionals, free of charge through the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program, part of the BC Tourism Resiliency Network.

The seven-part series consists of 2-hour online workshops, twice a week for seven weeks with Okanagan College tourism professors. Each part focuses on specific leadership skills required in today’s multi-faceted workplaces.

Participants will discover their leadership style, develop management skills, learn about teams, engagement, communication, conflict resolution, and goal setting.

The program is meant to develop skills for both aspiring leaders and seasoned veterans, with insights and tangible strategies that can be applied immediately in the workplace.

Availability is limited. While priority will be given to professionals currently employed in the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry, other professionals may be eligible.

Application Details

Applications are now closed. If you wish to be informed of future leadership training opportunities, complete the following form:

Schedule & Topics

Each week of the Tourism Leadership Essentials Program will include two instructor-led virtual sessions, plus two hours of independent work covering the followings topics:

Week 1: April 12 & 14 | Leading Workplace Teams

Learn about the skills and tools effective leaders require, how personal values impact leadership, as well as how to develop realistic visions, manage change and promote innovation.

Week 2: April 19 & 21 | Engaging Your Workforce

A highly engaged workforce results in less turnover, better customer service and increased profits. Gain strategies for engaging and motivating employees to foster new ideas and identify solutions in the workplace. Learn about motivation, teamwork, and the stages of teamwork.

Week 3: April 26 & 28 | Communicating Beyond the Basics

Communication is a key component in successful workplaces. Learn how to build respectful and productive relationships with staff and customers. Learn how you communicate, the challenges in communicating effectively, and how to improve your listening skills. Develop a methodology to plan for change.

Week 4: May 3 & 5 | Managing Conflict

Conflicts arise in all workplaces and it’s up to leaders to manage them. Response to conflict defines the result. See the connections between responses and actions and then identify shifts to build better relationships. Gain strategies for dealing with difficult people, having difficult conversations, and providing meaningful feedback.

Week 5: May 10 & 12 | Goal Setting and Time Management

Gain a methodology to tie all objectives and aspirations into a planned approach, matched with resources and timelines to meet goals. Learn how to use time effectively to keep feeling motivated and prevent feelings of overwhelm. The planning and goal setting strategies provided in this course ensure time invested results in solid and measurable results.

Week 6: May 17 & 19 | Change Management

Change is inevitable and not always easy. Learn to lead during times of change by gaining knowledge, skills and strategies that lead to successful change management. Explore reasons for change and factors that influence this process, as well as the impact of change on innovation.

Week 7: May 24 & 26 | Coaching & Developing Employees

Coaching employees builds stronger relationships between managers and their team members. Through coaching, employees are supported in developing the skills they require to reach organizational goals and strategic objectives. This course provides learners with strategies they can use to ensure their employees are engaged in their own personal growth resulting in a positive impact on the organization.

TOTA Launches Community Well-Being Survey on International Day of Happiness

Kelowna, BC - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) launched a Community Well-Being Survey, on the International Day of Happiness, March 20, 2022. The survey, a partnership with Planet Happiness (a project of the Happiness Alliance), is meant to strengthen the relationship between the tourism industry and residents of the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia.

The survey includes questions about mental health, lifestyle, hobbies, feelings toward tourism, and daily activities. The responses gathered will help to inform strategies for improving resident well-being in the region. This evidence based survey has been peer reviewed, is completely private, and is General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliant.

The residents of this region have proven their capacity for resiliency and moving forward together throughout the pandemic. As the world begins to resume to its normal ways, TOTA wants to include resident well-being  at the forefront of reintegrating tourism to the communities in the region. People make a great destination and a great destination contributes to the well-being of its people.

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Take the Survey

Thompson Okanagan residents, including tourism professionals, are invited to complete the survey. Once completed you will receive a personal report highlighting your results compared to the average results of other residents in the region.

Learn More & Take Survey →

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Help Spread the Word

Individuals and companies are encouraged to share the survey with team members and communities before the survey closes on the 30th of April, 2022. To make sharing easy, TOTA has prepared a Media Kit with sample promotion materials for email and social media.

View Media Kit →

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About International Day of Happiness

The International Day of Happiness was created with the mission to “serve as a beacon of light, inspiration, and hope for all who aspire to live happy and fulfilling lives.”

The non-profit organization works towards this mission by hosting events and sharing their efforts through the official hashtag #InternationalDayOfHappiness in order to spread awareness about the Ten Steps to Global Happiness and by work to promote and advance the following:

1. Happiness as a fundamental human right and goal for all

2. Happiness as a universal aspiration in the lives of all

3. Happiness as a way of living, being, and serving communities and society

4. Happiness as a north star for individuals, communities, governments, and society.

5. Happiness path toward achieving the sustainable development goals

6. Happiness as a “new paradigm’ for human development

7. Worldwide celebration of the international day of happiness that is democratic, diverse, organic, and inclusive

The Ten Steps to Happiness 2022 are as follows:

1.  Tell Everyone.

2.  Do What Makes You Happy.

3. Give and Spread Happiness to Others.

4. Attend a World Happiness Event.

5. Celebrate.

6. Share What Makes You Happy on Social Media.

7. Promote the Resolutions.

8. Advance the United Nations Global Goals for Sustainable Development.

9. Enjoy Nature. 

10. Hapitalism.

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For more information about the International Day of Happiness and the Ten Steps to Happiness 2022, visit HappinessDay.org.

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Background

About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests of the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. TOTA is supported by and representative of Destination British Columbia and the B.C. Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport.

TOTA is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies.

Learn More

About Happiness Alliance

Happiness Alliance is a non-profit organization with a mission to contribute to the transformations of economies and societies so that the happiness of people, the well-being of communities, and the sustainability if ecosystems is the primary aim of governance, enterprise, and people. Since 2010, the Happiness Alliance has provided happiness and well-being tools and resources, including the Happiness Index. Executive director Laura Musolanski has authored multiple books and articles, and is also the co-author of the Happiness Policy Handbook.

Learn More

About Planet Happiness

Planet Happiness is a grassroots, big data project to introduce happiness and well-being science, policy and practice to local communities, governments, and businesses connected to the travel and tourism industry. Dr. Paul Rogersm co-founder and director of Planet Happiness, has over 20 years of experience as a tourism advisor to national and local government and has worked in more than a dozen countries across Asia, Africa, and Australia.

Learn More

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For more information, contact:

Claim Your bookeco Sustainable Tourism Listing

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and bookeco have formed a strategic alliance and partnership to promote sustainable tourism products and services in the Thompson Okanagan.

bookeco is a fast growing, customer focused platform that connects customers to businesses that care about the planet. Launched in November of 2021 with an initial focus on the Canadian market, bookeco already has over 1,200 sustainability focused businesses listed on its platform along with a rapidly growing eco-conscious customer base.

bookeco will feature the Thompson Okanagan as a sustainable destination and home to many responsible places to stay, things to do, and places to eat and drink.

Tourism businesses who demonstrate sustainable practices can register to be featured on the bookeco website, which will increase bookings and revenue by attracting sustainability focused customers to their business.

TOTA encourages all businesses taking sustainable actions to create a profile on bookeco to help customers easily find sustainable tourism providers in the Thompson Okanagan region.

Register for bookeco listing

Businesses can register for the free Basic Plan and link customer bookings through external booking partners websites, or the Advantage Plan to eliminate external booking partner fees.

With the Advantage Plan, companies will:

• Drive bookings directly to your website.

• Stop paying high booking partner fees.

• Gain access to a sustainability focused customer base.

• Showcase your sustainability initiatives to the world.

• Add video content to your profile to increase booking conversion rates.

• Receive priority email support.

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bookeco Biosphere Discount

As part of TOTA’s partnership, Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Committed Companies will receive a discount when they sign up for the bookeco Advantage Plan. The discount is 3 months free on the monthly plan or 4 months free on the yearly plan.

The Biosphere Commitment Program is open to Thompson Okanagan tourism businesses taking action towards sustainability and costs $250/year to participate.

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bookeco Plans

When registering for the Advantage Plan, companies can choose their business category and either a monthly or yearly subscription:

$9.99 CAD / month or $99 CAD / year

$14.99 CAD / month or $149 CAD / year

$24.99 CAD / month or $249 CAD / year

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If you have any questions or to receive the discount code, email Biosphere@TOTABC.com.