CRIS Adaptive Rentals Launches New Adaptive Bike & Pop Up Rentals in BC Parks

CRIS Adaptive debuted the newest addition to the fleet of rental equipment, the Hase Bike, in Kekuli Bay Provincial Park. This is the first of a series of equipment to be purchased through the StrongerBC Targeted Regional Tourism Development Initiative (TRTDI). CRIS received the grant in order to facilitate outdoor adventures for all, to promote inclusion and accessibility while supporting the tourism industry.

CRIS is the first adaptive service provider in the Interior of BC to put a Hase system into service. The Hase is a modular adaptive bike that gives clients significant options for supported and independent riding.

The debut of the bike was paired with the debut of the BC Parks/CRIS mobile rental program. CRIS has partnered with BC Parks to offer a mobile rental program for accessible recreation equipment. The schedule for rental "pop ups" is available on AdaptiveRentals.ca

Canada USA Border Reopening Resources

Starting Monday, August 9, Canada plans to allow entry to American citizens and permanent residents who are currently residing in the US and have been fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to entering Canada for non-essential travel. This preliminary step allows for the Government of Canada to fully operationalize the adjusted border measures ahead of September 7.

Subject to limited exceptions, all travellers must use ArriveCAN (app or web portal) to submit their travel information. If they are eligible to enter Canada and meet specific criteria, fully vaccinated travellers will not have to quarantine upon arrival.

Helpful Canada USA Border Resources:

• COVID-19: Entering Canada requirements checklist

• Destination Canada COVID-19: Guidance for Travellers

• COVID-19: Travel, testing, quarantine and borders

• COVID-19: Travel Information for US Citizens

• COVID-19: Passports and Travel for US Citizens

• Destination BC Messaging Guide for BC's Tourism Industry and travellers from the United States.

This is an evolving situation which may require frequent updates.

Buy BC Partnership Program

Buy BC provides cost-shared funding and a recognizable Buy BC logo to help B.C.’s agri-food and seafood sector market their products and increase sales within B.C. Buy BC promotes a wide range of agriculture, food and beverage products. Look for the Buy BC symbol at your local grocery stores and farmers’ markets to enjoy and explore local products and support B.C. farmers, producers and our economy.

• Buy BC Logo Licensing: Buy BC logo licensing provides industry with the opportunity to apply for authorization to use the Logo through an Authorized Use Agreement or Consent to Use Form.

• Buy BC Cost-Shared Funding: Once an applicant has been approved for a Buy BC logo license, they can apply for funding to help them undertake sector and/or product specific Buy BC marketing and promotional activities across the province.

Additional Measures for Central Okanagan Communities Amid COVID-19 Surge

On August 6, British Columbia announced additional measures for the Central Okanagan region, effective immediately. Restrictions on events and gatherings will begin on August 9.

The restrictions apply to the communities of:

• Kelowna

• West Kelowna

• Westbank First Nation

• Peachland

• Lake Country

The new measures have been introduced because 56% of active cases are in Interior Health Authority, with the vast majority in the Central Okanagan region. A significant majority of cases are among unvaccinated individuals and individuals who have only received a single dose.

Due to the continued rise of COVID-19 cases, and the introduction of the Delta variant, new measures include:

Travel and Accommodation

• Vacation rentals and accommodations (houses/houseboats included) will be limited to 5 people plus occupants

• Recommendation against non-essential travel to and from the Central Okanagan

Personal gatherings

• Outdoor personal gatherings limited to 50 people

• Indoor personal gatherings limited to groups of five people from one other households

Organized gatherings

• Indoor/outdoor gatherings limited to 50 people with COVID safety plan in place

• Restaurants, Bars, Nightclubs, Casinos

• Nightclubs and bars will be closed

• Restaurants will be limited to groups of up to 6 people (not restricted to own household)

• Liquor service limited until 10pm

• Casinos will remain operational under current guidelines but must comply with restaurant guidance

Exercise Facilities

• Indoor low intensity exercise will continue with capacity limits

• Indoor high intensity exercise will be suspended

Masks

• Mask mandate will continue to be in place for all indoor public places and is enforceable by by-law officers in the Central Okanagan

Events Taking Place This Weekend:

As mentioned restrictions on gatherings and events will take place on Monday, August 9. Should you have an event planned for this weekend, organizers should ensure they have safety plans in place and keep a list of individuals who attended these events. Unimmunized people are strongly encouraged not attend these events; other attendees should wear masks and stay seated.

Encouraging Vaccinations:

The single most important action we can all do to protect our industry, community, and ourselves is to receive both vaccine doses and encourage others to do the same. To encourage residents of British Columbia to become fully vaccinated, the government of BC has taken the following measures:

• Community events, vax vans and mobile clinics in dozens of communities in B.C. available by walk-in or pre-scheduling. Search by community to find a drop-in event near you. Events are organized by each health authority. Interior Health is the primary health authority for the Thompson Okanagan region.

• People who live in Kelowna, West Kelowna, Peachland, Lake Country and on Westbank First Nations lands (Central Okanagan Local Health Area) can get their second dose 28 days after dose 1, opposed to 48 days.

• Gradual refocus of vaccine efforts from mass clinics onto programs targeting the hard to reach people where the need is greatest. A full list of Vax for BC events happening throughout the province is available online: gov.bc.ca/vaxforbc

Additional Recommendations for Operators:

In addition to encouraging others to receive the vaccine, it is important that operators take the following steps to mitigate the spread of COVID-19:

• Ensure that cleaning and sanitization protocols are being held to the highest standards

• That you encourage staff to stay home from work and receive a COVID-19 test should they be feeling ill

• That you continue to ensure your communicable disease plan is being followed

• Consider also ensuring that heightened safety measures (such as masks) are being implemented

Tourism Industry Key Messaging

Health and safety continues to be the top priority. Public health leaders are putting additional recommendations in place to protect us all.

Residents and visitors are asked to follow the public health measures set by the province, communities, and individual businesses to protect people, businesses, and the economy from the continued spread of COVID-19.

Businesses are facing challenges like never before. Visitors are reminded to be kind, patient, and supportive of businesses and employees.

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Business Support

The TOTA team is here to help with the challenges your business is facing. As part of TOTA's Tourism Resiliency Program tourism companies can access the following free supports:

• 1:1 Business Support with a TOTA Resiliency Advisor

• Email Recovery@TOTABC.com for quick questions or to share challenges faced by your business

TOTA will continue to advocate to government. Through this time, let's support each other, stay safe, and continue on the #Journey2Immunity.

Kekuli Cafe Opening New Location in Kamloops

Kekuli Cafe is adding a third location in Kamloops. The other two fast-casual Indigenous eateries are in Westbank and Merritt, as well as a food truck. The new spot will be located across from the Royal Inland Hospital.

39 Forestry Projects Protect and Enhance B.C.’s Recreational Values

The Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC) released a 2021 Summer Accomplishments Update featuring 39 forest enhancement projects which are protecting and enhancing important recreational values from campsites and hiking trails to ski resorts and heritage sites.

“Earlier this spring, our team was reviewing the 269 projects FESBC has funded since inception, and we noted a number of the projects throughout the province had a secondary benefit to them – protecting and enhancing recreational values,” said Steve Kozuki, RPF, executive director FESBC. “The primary purposes of FESBC projects range from mitigating wildfire risk and enhancing wildlife habitat to improving the recovery of wood fibre and replanting forests. At the same time, FESBC projects often deliver additional co-benefits such as climate change mitigation, job creation, Indigenous peoples’ participation in the forest economy, as well as protecting and enhancing forest recreation.”

Of FESBC’s 269 projects, 39 were identified to protect or enhance one or more recreational values. 12 projects were completed in the Thompson Okanagan region, including Sicamous, Silver Star Mountain, Kelowna, Westbank, Lake Country, Peachland, Summerland, Baldy Mountain Resort, Big White, Midway, and Greenwood.

“When you live in a community where there’s only one road in and out, you can see the devastation a fire can have on a community, it’s nerve racking,” said Michael J. Ballingall, senior vice president of Big White Ski Resort Ltd. “We are proud of the work that was done, the results, and the safety assurances it brings. This action speaks for itself. We feel protected.”

Since inception, FESBC has empowered local people who want to do local projects that contribute to the achievement of our climate change goals and enhance B.C.’s forests through wildfire risk mitigation, accelerated ecological recovery after wildfires, wildlife habitat enhancement, and increased utilization of forest fibre.

FESBC Board Chair Jim Snetsinger is proud of the efforts of the FESBC team and the many First Nations, community forest leaders, local governments, and industry partners who carried out this exceptional work.

“With support from the governments of B.C. and Canada, FESBC has enabled others to do this remarkable work to enhance our forests, generating immense social, economic, and environmental benefits,” said Snetsinger. “When British Columbians enhance our forests, we are bequeathing an inheritance to our children and grandchildren: cleaner air, fewer greenhouse gases, better timber supply, higher quality wildlife habitat, safer communities, and protecting important recreational assets we all value and enjoy.”

Destination BC Welcomes New Board Chair and Two New Board Members

Destination BC is pleased to welcome three new members to the Board of Directors:

Scott Fraser, Board Chair, recently retired from the BC Provincial government as MLA and Member of Cabinet and Executive Council, representing Mid-Island Pacific Rim. Scott previously served as Mayor of the District of Tofino, President of the Tofino Bed and Breakfast Association, Director on the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, and Director on the Clayoquot Sound Central Region Board. In 2019, he introduced the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as Minister of Indigenous Relations.

Lori Simcox, Board Member, is CEO of SPAL General Constructors Inc., owned by the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, which manages partnerships in the construction industry.

Manoj Jasra, Board Member, is Chief Marketing & Digital Officer at Northland Properties Group, whose assets span hotels, restaurants, resorts, sports and construction in Canada and internationally.

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Congratulations to Scott, Lori, and Manoj and thank you for supporting BC’s tourism industry.

Indigenous Tourism BC Labour Market Research, Indigenous Tourism Labour Strategy and a Guide to Wise HR Practices

Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) has released “Indigenous Tourism Labour Market Research: Roots to a Future Research Findings 2020-21”, the “BC Indigenous Tourism Strategic Plan,” and “Wise Ways: A Guide of Smart Practices to Attracting and Retaining Indigenous Talent.”

This project launched in November 2019 in response to a critical labour shortage and growing demand for labour in the Indigenous and non-Indigenous tourism industry. This project is funded by the Province of British Columbia and Government of Canada through the Sector Labour Market Partnerships program.

“Indigenous Tourism is one of the fastest growing parts of the tourism sector and we want to ensure businesses have people to do the work so they can continue to grow,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “Creating tools to attract, train and retain Indigenous people to obtain critically important jobs in the tourism sector can advance economic and cultural reconciliation and increased understanding for our culture and practices by visitors near and far.”

The research report shows there were 488 Indigenous tourism businesses in British Columbia in early 2020. These businesses were employing 4,248 people, with a potential of inspiring another 14,500 Indigenous people to build careers in the tourism industry. This research report, strategy and smart practice guide will support a path to build on this success and create growth for Indigenous tourism employment.

ITBC Chair Brenda Baptiste says, “We were preparing for continued growth with this project when the global COVID-19 pandemic was announced. In the footsteps of our ancestors, we shifted our focus to strategies to support Indigenous people and Indigenous tourism businesses to navigate the pandemic and devastating impacts on the tourism industry.”

The research report follows the Literature review which summarizes studies and research on the Indigenous tourism labour force (available online at https://www.indigenousbc.com/corporate/content/uploads/2020/11/REPORT-2020-ITBC-Labour-Market-Research-Literature-Review-2020-04-17-FINAL20200630.pdf). The Indigenous Tourism Labour Strategy outlines strategic approaches and partnerships, training and recruitment supports for Indigenous people, while the “Wise Ways” guide offers ideas on how to recruit and hire Indigenous staff, and build a workplace that retains Indigenous talent.

Baptiste adds, “Our industry has experienced incredible success over the past several years, and we anticipate employment returning to 2019 levels by 2024. ITBC will ensure Indigenous tourism experiences and First Nations have the capacity to grow our industry and continue to showcase our culture, history and story that make British Columbia truly unique among global tourism destinations.”

To learn more about Indigenous Tourism BC and the recent labour market research, visit www.indigenousbc.com/corporate

Research Report Highlights:

• Of all Indigenous tourism businesses, the 2019 size of the workforce was roughly 4,248.

• A Conference Board of Canada study for Tourism HR Canada in 2018 uncovered that 16% of Indigenous people wanted to work in tourism but could not find a job.

• The Indigenous population available for work and interested in working in tourism is estimated at 14,497.

• 33% of Indigenous tourism employers experienced challenges recruiting workers for their business in 2019. Reasons include not being able to provide candidates with competitive salaries (41%), lack of access to appropriate housing (38%), and lack of appropriate training/educational opportunities (38%).

• Those positions cited by Indigenous tourism employers as being most challenging to recruit (10+%) were linked to cook, guiding, retail sales, driver, cleaner, desk clerk, chef, and musician positions.

• There are several constraints to Indigenous tourism businesses and Indigenous people that limit Indigenous business development and deter people from entering and advancing in the Indigenous tourism industry, such as Indigenous community infrastructure like internet connectivity and affordable internet, transportation, and housing.

• There is a growing demographic of Indigenous people suited to careers in the tourism industry. However, there is increasing competition both within and beyond the Indigenous tourism sector.

Quick Links

• Roots to A Future Research Findings 2020-21

• BC Indigenous Tourism Strategic Plan

• Wise Ways: A Guide of Smart Practices to Attracting and Retaining Indigenous Talent

PacifiCan: New Regional Development Agency for British Columbia

For the first time in more than three decades, the Government of Canada will enhance its federal economic development presence and services in Western Canada by creating two regional development agencies for British Columbia and the Prairie provinces. This approach recognizes that economic drivers and conditions are different in each of the two regions, and entrepreneurs, innovators, institutions, and communities have unique needs linked to where they are located.

Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan) will be the new federal regional economic development agency for British Columbia. It will build on Western Economic Diversification Canada’s (WD) 34 year legacy to work more closely with BC businesses, innovators, and communities; promote connections and investments to foster economic growth; and help organizations navigate federal programs and policies.  

From the outset, Canada’s regional development agencies have played a key role in helping businesses and communities weather the effects of the pandemic. They have delivered a suite of direct support programs to help mitigate the financial pressures caused by COVID-19, ensuring that businesses and their employees are not only able to survive the crisis, but positioned to come back stronger in our recovery.

The Government of Canada has laid out a plan, through Budget 2021, to set businesses on a track for long-term growth, and ensure that Canada's future will be healthier, more equitable, greener, and more prosperous. This includes supporting regional economies. As Westerners move towards their economic recovery, the Government of Canada is building a more focused, locally informed approach, putting people first to foster innovation, business growth, and resilience in urban, rural, and Indigenous communities.

In Budget 2021, the Government of Canada provided this new BC-focused agency with $553.1 million over five years, starting in 2021-22, and $110.6 million ongoing. As a result, in addition to maintaining its current office in Vancouver, PacifiCan will move to establish its new headquarters in Surrey and expand its reach by establishing new service locations in Victoria, Campbell River, Prince Rupert, Fort St. John, Prince George, Kelowna, and Cranbrook.

These locations will be launched over a period of months. When complete, this enhanced on-the-ground presence will bring the federal government closer to businesses and the communities they call home. Supporting economic development in more communities will help develop businesses and create good jobs that people can rely on.

The new agency will build on existing relationships with clients and partners such as the Western Canada Business Service Network, and will continue to deliver new Budget 2021 funding programs, as well as existing programs that help businesses to scale-up, and support regional innovation.

New Marketing Partner: Sustainable Life App™

TOTA’s Biosphere team is working to create Sustainable Life App listings for all Biosphere Committed Companies.

The Sustainable Life App™ connects eco-conscious consumers with sustainable businesses and brands. With 4000+ listings, 10,000+ downloads, and 6000+ users, the app is growing in popularity across Canada and internationally.

There is a one-time registration fee of $97 and Biosphere Committed Companies receive an exclusive $50 discount. In addition, $40 of the $47 one-time fee will be reinvested through targeted social media ads in the Thompson Okanagan.

Have Your Say on B.C.’s Permanent Paid Sick Leave

British Columbians are invited to provide input into the development of made-in-B.C. permanent paid sick leave to support workers and protect workplaces.

In addition to outreach to key stakeholders and Indigenous partners, a public consultation process is now open and can be accessed through government’s engagement site.

There will be two phases of consultation:

• Phase 1 (Aug. 5 to Sept. 14) – surveys will gather information from employers and workers on the kinds of paid illness and injury leaves currently provided, and how they are meeting workers’ needs; and

• Phase 2 (Sept. 20 to Oct. 25) – informed by the surveys, options will be prepared for various paid sick leave models, including the numbers of paid days and other supports, and will be posted for public feedback and input.

In May 2021, amendments to the Employment Standards Act laid the groundwork for establishing minimum standards for a permanent paid sick leave entitlement. Following the public engagement process, paid sick leave will be established through a regulation, and come into effect on Jan. 1, 2022.

Quick Facts:

• The May 2021 amendments to the Employment Standards Act created a temporary COVID-19 paid sick leave program for up to three days of leave until Dec. 31, 2021. To support businesses struggling with the impacts of the pandemic, government is reimbursing employers up to $200 per day per worker, to help cover those wages.

• An estimated 50% of B.C. employees do not have access to paid sick leave. This means more than one million workers in B.C. will benefit from receiving these new paid sick leaves.

• Many vulnerable and low-wage workers – who are often women or migrant workers – lack benefits, so the ability to take paid leave will be especially beneficial to them.

go2HR’s B.C. Labour Market Survey

Help the Tourism & Hospitality Industry Return to a New Normal

Participate in the go2HR’s B.C. labour market survey and enter into a draw for prizes valued at $1,500.

go2HR has been hard at work undertaking a Labour Market Information research project to better understand the impact of COVID-19 on our workforce. Even before COVID-19, the industry faced some significant human resource challenges. These challenges may increase as we emerge from the pandemic.

go2HR is seeking feedback from a representative sample of employers across all sectors and regions of the province. It takes approximately 25 minutes to complete the survey to share the impact of COVID-19 on your tourism operators, human resource issues, and what can be done to help industry in dealing with these issues going forward. Any information provided will be held confidential, used only for the purpose of this study, and reported only in summary form with the responses of other respondents.

Canada Extends COVID-19 Benefits to October 2021 (CEWS, CERS, CRB)

The Government of Canada has announced the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) and the Canadian Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) will be extended by four weeks to October 23, 2021. This extension also includes an increase of the rate of support employers and organizations can receive during the period between August 29 and September 25, 2021 from a maximum of 20 per cent to 40 per cent.

These extensions include:

• Extending the eligibility period for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy and Lockdown Support until October 23, 2021, and increasing the rate of support employers and organizations can receive during the period between August 29 and September 25, 2021.

• Extending the Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB), the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB), and the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) until October 23, 2021.

• Increasing the maximum number of weeks available for the CRB, by an additional 4 weeks, to a total of 54 weeks, at a rate of $300 per week, and ensuring it is available to those who have exhausted their employment insurance (EI) benefits.

Municipalities Empowered to Ban Single-Use Plastics

Municipalities throughout the province can now move more quickly to prevent plastics from polluting their communities.

Under new rules, local governments can institute bans on plastic bags and certain single-use plastics without provincial approval.

The Province has amended a regulation under the Community Charter to allow local governments to ban single-use plastics, including plastic checkout bags, polystyrene foam containers and plastic utensils, which includes stir sticks. Previously, municipalities required ministerial approval to implement a plastics ban.

More than 20 municipalities in B.C. are developing bylaws banning single-use plastics. Under the previous regulation, bylaws were approved for the municipalities of Esquimalt, Nanaimo, Richmond, Rossland, Saanich, Surrey, Tofino, Ucluelet and Victoria.

This change is one part of the CleanBC Plastics Action Plan. The Province is also expanding the number of products to be recycled through residential recycling programs by adding milk and milk-alternative containers to the deposit-refund system effective February 2022, and more single-use items to the packaging part of the Recycling Regulation effective January 2023. It is also piloting new projects to use reclaimed plastic waste in new manufacturing through the CleanBC Plastics Action Fund.

Since last year, more than 127 tonnes of plastic have been removed from B.C.’s coastline under the Clean Coast, Clean Waters initiative. It is estimated that in 2019, more than 340,000 tonnes of plastic items and packaging were disposed of in British Columbia. This equates to more than 65 kilograms of plastic waste landfilled per person in one year.

Government extends COVID-19 benefits and business supports to support stronger economic recovery

As the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, the Government of Canada continues to adapt its support to deliver support to those who need it, heal the wounds of the pandemic recession, and build a strong recovery that leaves no one behind.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, and the Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, announced the extension of crucial COVID-19 support measures for Canadians and Canadian businesses in recognition that uneven economic reopening across regions and sectors means workers and businesses continue to need support. These extensions include:

• Extending the eligibility period for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy and Lockdown Support until October 23, 2021, and increasing the rate of support employers and organizations can receive during the period between August 29 and September 25, 2021.

• Extending the Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB), the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB), and the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) until October 23, 2021.

• Increasing the maximum number of weeks available for the CRB, by an additional 4 weeks, to a total of 54 weeks, at a rate of $300 per week, and ensuring it is available to those who have exhausted their employment insurance (EI) benefits.

As our recovery gets underway, workers and businesses in certain regions and sectors continue to need support. In the April federal budget, the government recognized that the economic and public health situation remained uncertain and made sure it had the flexibility to extend supports further into the fall as the public health situation warranted. By moving forward on these extensions, the government is ensuring that businesses – including those in hard-hit sectors like tourism, hospitality, arts, and entertainment – can continue to get the support they need so they can invest in their recovery and long-term prosperity.

In addition, the government is proposing to offer businesses greater flexibility when calculating the revenue decline used to determine eligibility for the wage and rent subsidy programs and the new Canada Recovery Hiring Program. The government is also releasing draft legislation that provides further clarity on previously announced changes to the wage subsidy for furloughed employees.

More details on the extension and these proposed changes to COVID business supports are available in the backgrounder.

Eco Efficiency Toolkit

Did you know that an Eco Efficiency Toolkit was created for Biosphere Committed Companies to use as an additional resource? The toolkit is divided into four key areas: water, energy, waste and carbon and provides helpful tips and low and no-cost solutions for companies of all sizes. To access the Eco Efficiency Toolkit and you are not currently a Biosphere Committed Member, join the Biosphere Commitment Program now.

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This summer, we have experienced quite the heat wave and drought is currently impacting approximately half of BC, with extremely dry or very dry conditions throughout the Thompson Okanagan.

Here are some helpful tips from our Eco Efficiency Toolkit to help you reduce water usage:

1. Establish your water usage baseline

2. Consider using grey water management systems or harvest rainwater

3. Install low-flow fixtures

4. Track your water consumption, by installing a water meter or using the free Energy Star Portfolio Manager program

5. Check for leaks and drips in your water systems

6. Xeriscape with native drought-resistant plants

7. Use mulch at the base of plants to reduce evaporation from soil

8. Reuse water for gardens and plants

9. Ensure your irrigation system uses water efficiently and use low flow garden hose nozzles

10. Adopt water-efficient cleaning procedures

Brenda Baptiste Recognized With the Order of British Columbia

The Lieutenant Governor of B.C. has announced sixteen exceptional people to be appointed to the Order of British Columbia, including Brenda Baptiste of Osoyoos.

On behalf of the board and team at the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, we congratulate Brenda Baptiste of this very special honour, the Province’s highest form of recognition. It has been a pleasure to work with Brenda in the Thompson Okanagan over the years through her work with the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre and as board member and Chair of the Board for Indigenous Tourism BC.

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About Brenda Baptiste

In the late 1990s the Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB) established itself as an economic force in the South Okanagan. At the same time, chief and council embarked on the feasibility for a cultural centre that would not only help preserve Syilx culture but present this cultural richness to the greater public.

In 2003, Brenda Baptiste was hired to coordinate the planning and operations for the $10-million first phase of the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre (NDCC) that would celebrate Syilx culture and life in the desert context. The OIB had limited financial resources to subsidize the cultural centre and decided to open the NDCC to the public to assist with financial operations and to celebrate Indigenous Syilx culture, truly a precursor for reconciliation. The centre went on to win numerous awards and is now in a Phase 2 expansion, for which Baptiste is guiding the Indigenous story. The completion of this next phase will further anchor the centre as one of the leading cultural attractions in B.C.

Following the inspirational success with the NDCC, Brenda was elected to the board of the then Aboriginal Tourism BC (AtBC), which was a young financially strapped organization of 12 members and one employee. Now known as Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC), the organization now has 500 members and 12 employees.

For Baptiste, three issues became evident:

1. Indigenous cultural tourism would need to become not only an economic opportunity for B.C.’s Indigenous communities but would provide “pride-of-nation” and a powerful path to reconciliation for Indigenous communities as they chose what cultural elements to protect and what to share and celebrate with visitors, ensuring cultural authenticity.

2. For Indigenous cultural rebirth a clear road map was imperative and as a result she worked in collaboration with a team to develop a blueprint for the growth of Indigenous cultural tourism in B.C., and the first of its kind in Canada. The strategy was the catalyst for incredible growth in Indigenous cultural tourism — 20% each year on average, including revenues of more than $1.2 billion and 7,400 full-time jobs.

3. The vision for a potent Indigenous cultural presence had to include a strong B.C. identity, which would celebrate the rich cultural life of Indigenous people. This collaborative effort would be sustained through meaningful partnerships with the B.C. government and tourism industry partners.

Baptiste was also the director of the Aboriginal Business Showcase for the Four Host Nations during the 2010 Olympics. This venue hosted over 500 Indigenous cultural businesses and artisans from across Canada. The vision was to create an opportunity for visitors reflecting dynamic and diverse Indigenous cultures, thereby facilitating the growth of cultural opportunities for all Indigenous Nations in Canada.

Recently, Baptiste led the coordination of a holistic cultural program for Indigenous inmates at the Okanagan Correction Centre. She has implemented cultural events for those often in most need to build pride in their essence as a native person. She has implemented Syilx cultural programming, including spiritual counselling, smudging, singing, and drumming, sweat house ceremonies, Syilx language, and crafts.

First International Standard on Accessible Tourism For All

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has published the world’s first standard on accessible tourism, ISO 21902 Tourism and related services – Accessible tourism for all – Requirements and recommendations. This is an international standard offering guidelines to ensure access and enjoyment of tourism for all on an equal basis.

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Fundación ONCE and UNE (Asociación Española de Normalización)  led the development of this pioneering, cross-cutting standard on an international level, focusing on accessible tourism throughout the whole value chain of the tourism sector.

This is a business that in the European Union represents a potential market of 80 million persons, or 130 million if companions are included. Moreover, the market is growing considering the population pyramid in many European countries, and this is also the case for other parts of the world.

As from today, this standard is available in Spanish as UNE-ISO 21902,  having been translated and included in the UNE national catalogue of standards. It addresses service providers and tourism operators as well as public administrations and tourism destinations.

The UNE-ISO 21902 standard establishes requirements and recommendations for accessible tourism. For example, in order for a beach to be considered accessible, it must offer showers, toilets and a route that can be used by all. Also, accessible pedestrian routes in a natural environment must provide, amongst other requirements, a continuous, firm and stable floor and signalling and must offer details on the itinerary before the start of the route. In general, in their written communications, tourism establishments must use clear and simple language following a logical sequence, with images and graphic symbols where appropriate, and with contrasting colours and easy-to-read fonts.

It is hoped that the standard will become a key tool for enforcing the right of everyone to enjoy tourism and leisure. In spite of advances over recent decades, in many countries there is still much to be done before the tourism sector takes into account the needs of the more than 1 billion persons with disabilities in the world.

Because of the way in which environments, infrastructure and a wide range of tourism services have been conceived, tourists with disabilities often face challenges starting from the actual planning of their trip and including their experience in the destination. This standard aims to trigger change.

Throughout 2021 and 2022, UNWTO, Fundación ONCE and UNE, together with experts, will hold an awareness campaign addressing their members and associates to stress the harmonization of accessible tourism on a global scale by means of standards.

This worldwide standard was developed by the International Standardization Committee ISO/TC 228 on Tourism and related services, in which UNWTO coordinated working group WG14 bringing together 85 experts from more than 35 countries and five relevant organizations in this area who were responsible for the drafting. Fundación ONCE held the technical leadership and UNE provided the secretariat and coordinated with ISO.

COVID-19 Update for Thompson Okanagan

New COVID-19 Health Measures for Central Okanagan

Interior Health (IH) has declared a COVID-19 outbreak in the Central Okanagan due to significant increases in COVID-19 transmission and announced measures effective July 29, 2021 for the Central Okanagan communities of Peachland, West Kelowna, Westbank First Nation, Kelowna, and Lake Country.

Restrictions Include:

• Mandatory masks in indoor public spaces. Patrons must wear masks unless seated

• Masks are encouraged to be worn outdoors if you are unable to physically distance

• Physical distancing required in indoor and outdoor places (e.g., between tables, line-ups, etc.)

• Events should be organized outdoors and not indoors

• Gatherings have a limit of 50 people or 50% of the venue's total capacity

• Bars, restaurants, and nightclubs must have COVID-19 safety plans in place. Liquor service can remain at normal hours but people should not be socializing between tables

• Nightclubs can remain open with up to 10 people at a table and seated

• Reducing the second-dose interval to four weeks, to get people vaccinated quicker

• Discouraging non-essential travel to the region by people who are not yet fully vaccinated (7 days after second dose)

• Expanded asymptomatic testing availability

• Remind your staff to stay home if they are sick and get tested if they have COVID-19 symptoms

The measures will remain in place for at least 14 days and until the region experiences lower cases and higher vaccination rates.

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Benefits of Vaccination

Now that over 80% of British Columbians are fully vaccinated, the benefits of vaccination are clear:

• Data from the BC Centre of Disease Control (BCCDC) shows that less than 5% of COVID-19 cases from June 15 to July 15 were among fully vaccinated people. More than 95 per cent of recent cases in the Central Okanagan are among people who are not fully-immunized against COVID-19.

• During the same time period, 78% of people hospitalized in B.C. with COVID-19 were unvaccinated.

• Since June 15 there have been no deaths or hospitalizations in fully vaccinated people under 60 in B.C.

This is an important reminder that immunization is our most effective prevention against COVID-19.

Public health officials are not recommending non-essential travel for those who have not been fully vaccinated. Those who have been vaccinated may continue to travel, and we ask they do so safely and responsibly. 

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Vax for BC Campaign

The Province of BC is making it easier than ever for people to get vaccinated with the launch of the Vax for BC campaign to help as many eligible people as possible get vaccinated.

In July, Interior Health (the main health authority for the Thompson Okanagan region) had the second highest rate of unvaccinated individuals, with 26% of the population listed as unvaccinated.

Beginning on July 27, 2021, and lasting throughout the month of August, there will be:

• Community events, vax vans and mobile clinics in dozens of communities in B.C. available by walk-in or pre-scheduling

• Provincewide Walk-in Wednesday on Aug. 4, 2021

• Gradual refocus of vaccine efforts from mass clinics onto programs targeting the hard to reach people where the need is greatest.

A full list of Vax for BC events happening throughout the province is available online: gov.bc.ca/vaxforbc

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How Can the Tourism Industry Help?

The pandemic is not over and the situation can change at any time. The tourism industry needs to continue to lead and do our part to ensure that we continue to stay open by help prevent the spread of the virus. While these temporary restrictions are in the Central Okanagan, it is an important reminder for all tourism companies to:

• Stay informed of the latest health regulations and guidelines from Interior Health
  and Ministry of Health.
  

• Check-in with staff and ensure that your communicable disease plan is being followed by all guests and staff, including cleaning protocols and sanitization. Staff should not come in to work if feeling ill and should continue to wear masks
  

• Reassess your company's Communicable Disease Prevention Plan and get a free 1:1 review from go2HR.
  

• Ensure employees are aware they are entitled to 3 hours of paid leave to be vaccinated against COVID-19.4

• Support Interior Health's campaign #Journey2Immunity by using the hashtag and link www.getvaccinated.gov.bc.ca to encourage others to get vaccinated on your personal social media channels.

• Share the facts about the benefits of getting fully vaccinated as soon as possible - for example, Big White Ski Resort has shared the benefits along with photos of their team lead and Loose Moose mascot wearing a mask.

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Business Support

The TOTA team is here to help with the challenges your business is facing. As part of TOTA's Tourism Resiliency Program tourism companies can access the following supports:

• 1-1 Business Support with a TOTA Resiliency Advisor

• Email Recovery@TOTABC.com for quick questions or to share challenges faced by your business

Through this time, let's support each other, stay safe, and continue on the #Journey2Immunity.

Support Tourism Workers in Need Through the BC Hospitality Foundation Online Raffle

The BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF) is pleased to announce that tickets for its first-ever online 50/50 raffle are now on sale. This online lottery initiative is a fundraiser in lieu of in person events due to the pandemic. The BCHF, which is the only charity of its kind in Canada, with a mission of supporting hospitality and tourism workers facing financial crisis due to a serious health condition experienced by themselves or a family member.

The raffle starts with a $1,000 jackpot and will increase with every ticket purchased above and beyond until sales close on August 16th 2021. The raffle is half way through sales, with the jackpot is sitting at $2,390. Help BCHF reach $5,000 this week. Winner takes half!

The initiative is a fundraiser for the BCHF, with a mission of supporting hospitality and tourism workers in need, such as:

• Server who suffered soft tissue and head injury from being struck by a car as a pedestrian – covered her rent for a month and other basic expenses so she could return to work.

• Cook who suffered a stroke and his wife had to have an emergency root canal - covered the cost of the dental work and basic living costs for 1 month.

• Restaurant worker who contracted an infection while giving birth to a premature baby girl. Mother and baby were transferred to hospital and stayed for over 3 weeks. The BCHF helped the family to cover the extraordinary costs of the father’s travel, older sister’s care, and living out of home for 21 nights

The winning name will be drawn at noon on August 17 and will be posted on the BCHF website and social media shortly thereafter, pending notification to the winner. Funds raised by the event will be used by the BCHF to support hospitality industry workers facing financial crisis due to a serious health condition experienced by themselves or a family member.

Purchase tickets online, and view updated jackpot as tickets are purchased.