News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
BC Hotel Association Partners with BC Regional Tourism Secretariat and STR to Support Tourism Resiliency
The not-for-profit organizations will utilize vital industry insights and tools from STR to advance BC accommodation sector in response to COVID-19.
The not-for-profit organizations will utilize vital industry insights and tools from STR to advance BC accommodation sector in response to COVID-19.
VANCOUVER, BC (September 22, 2020): The British Columbia Hotel Association (BCHA) is working in partnership with the BC Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS) and STR to offer informed recovery strategies for BC accommodators that have been negatively impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Using industry data from STR – the sector’s leading data benchmarking and analytics provider – BCHA and BCRTS will develop tools and strategies to support people and communities at the heart of BC’s tourism industry.
“Supporting tourism in Canada is one of STR’s top priorities, so we are proud to partner with the British Columbia Hotel Association and the BC Regional Tourism Secretariat” says Emile Gourieux, Business Development Executive, Hotels at STR. “Through our hotel benchmarking platform, we provide organizations like the BCHA and the BCRTS with the information they need to both successfully advocate on behalf of their members and create effective marketing strategies that will drive tourism to communities across British Columbia.”
As part of the partnership, BCHA and BCRTS will receive weekly reports from STR on trends and insights that inform the current and future realities of the accommodation sector. In addition to effectively communicating these findings to members and stakeholders, the organizations will work together to further develop and deliver education and revenue management training programs for the industry, while strengthening STR insights through promoting the program.
“The pandemic’s impact on our industry has been devastating and many accommodators in our province have substantiated concerns over their properties closing permanently”, says Ingrid Jarrett, President and CEO of the BCHA. “Having our finger on the pulse of industry is now more important than ever”. She continues, “in addition to advocating on behalf of our members, we are committed to providing education to support recovery and resiliency, providing vital training that will better equip accommodators with the tools needed for their businesses to survive and prosper. Our work with STR and the BCRTS will be paramount in this.”
Glenn Mandziuk, President & CEO of The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), and Chair of the BCRTS adds, “hotels are a fundamental component to the tourism industry at large. By generating a more informed understanding of the current climate and trends affecting accommodators on a greater scale, we can action educated strategies and foster tourism growth across each of the five regional tourism organizations the BCRTS represents.”
To learn more about the BC Hotel Association, or to inquire about becoming a member, contact Mike Macleod, Director of Member and Business Development at membership@bcha.com. Visit tourismresiliency.ca for more information on the BC Tourism Resiliency Network led by the BCRTS.
About the BC Hotel Association:
The British Columbia Hotel Association is a non-profit organization that works on behalf of accommodators at federal, provincial, and community levels, and champions issues such as taxation, tourism, marketing, corporate relations, labour, and consumer services. The BCHA has over 600 hotel members and 120 associate members, representing an industry made up of over 80,000 rooms and more than 60,000 employees. For more information, visit bcha.com.
About British Columbia’s Regional Tourism Secretariat:
British Columbia’s Regional Tourism Secretariat is a coalition of industry-led, not-for-profit organizations that provide a trusted voice for businesses, communities, and residents. Consisting of the five regional tourism organizations, including the Thompson Okanagan, the goal of Secretariat is to put people and communities at the heart of BC’s tourism industry.
About STR:
STR provides premium data benchmarking, analytics and marketplace insights for global hospitality sectors. Founded in 1985, STR maintains a presence in 15 countries with a corporate North American headquarters in Hendersonville, Tennessee, an international headquarters in London, and an Asia Pacific headquarters in Singapore. STR was acquired in October 2019 by CoStar Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSGP), the leading provider of commercial real estate information, analytics and online marketplaces. For more information, please visit www.str.com and www.costargroup.com
Media Contacts:
Kelsey Millman
Communications for BC Hotel Association
(Beattie Tartan)
communications@bcha.com
604.351.3623
Haley Luther
STR
Communications Coordinator
hluther@str.com
615.824.8664 ext. 3500
Province of B.C. Launching Tourism Task Force to Reignite Tourism Sector
Ten business and industry leaders have been appointed to a new task force focused on reigniting B.C.’s tourism sector and enhancing its long-term competitiveness, including TOTA President & CEO Glenn Mandziuk.
Ten business and industry leaders have been appointed to a new task force focused on reigniting B.C.’s tourism sector and enhancing its long-term competitiveness, including TOTA President & CEO Glenn Mandziuk.
The Province is allocating $50 million in the Economic Recovery Plan to implement new measures that result from the Tourism Task Force’s work. The Tourism Task Force will:
Seek innovative and creative ideas from stakeholders, experts and the public about how to help B.C.’s tourism industry recover in the short, medium and long term.
Solicit input on how the industry can become more sustainable in the future.
Present a final report to the minister by Dec. 31, 2020.
B.C. Tourism Task Force Members
Members of the Tourism Task Force have varied backgrounds including business, labour and the not-for-profit sector.
Tamara Vrooman, president and CEO, Vancouver International Airport (chair);
Walt Judas, CEO, Tourism Industry Association of BC;
Brenda Baptiste, chair, Indigenous Tourism BC;
Nancy Small, chair, BC Destination Management Organization Association, Tourism Richmond;
Ingrid Jarrett, president and CEO, BC Hotel Association;
Rod Harris, adjunct professor, Royal Roads University;
Glenn Mandziuk, vice-chair, Minister’s Tourism Engagement Council, and president and CEO, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association;
Richard Porges, interim president and CEO, Destination BC
Amy Thacker, chair, BC Tourism Regional Secretariat, and CEO, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association; and
a representative from the Labour sector, to be named.
Making Your Space Accessible to All
Creating an accessible and inclusive space doesn't need to be a daunting or expensive task. Upside Cidery quickly made their already inclusive space even more so by creating tables that are accessible to all in their cidery. Included are some tips on where and how to start making your space accessible.
Accessible Business Feature: Upside Cidery
Creating a space for all was the inspiration behind the opening of Upside Cidery. A space that welcomes anyone from families with children to business professionals, and everyone in between. They even welcome dogs into their space.
Upside Cidery is an organic cidery located on 18 acres of land on Gale Road behind Route 97 in Kelowna. This land was originally used to crush gravel for the building of the highway when it was first purchased in 1970 by the co-owner, Mike Large’s father. Both owners, Mike Large and Isaac Potash, grew up farming with Isaac’s family farm being one of the first organic farms.
The building that houses Upside Cidery was created in a way that upon arrival, is easy for everyone to access and move around. They have a paved and flat parking lot with a designated accessible stall and three stalls along the side of the building that can accommodate a vehicle with a side lift or ramp. Their open floor concept allows for lots of space to maneuver around in the cidery and the washrooms are very accessible.
Isaac Potach
Having only opened in June of 2019, the cidery is very successful and has become a very popular hangout for locals. The atmosphere is extremely welcoming and the staff are very friendly and accommodating. With the vision of everyone being welcome and able to enjoy Upside Cidery, Isaac was eager to do what he could when TOTA Accessibility specialist, Sonja Gaudet, brought to his attention, on her visit to the cidery, that there was no accessible seating in the building, only high tops and picnic tables.
“Making your space accessible doesn’t have to be expensive or daunting.”
Isaac immediately called up his builder to create two tables that were wheelchair accessible and comfortable for anyone that struggles to sit at high top tables. One of these tables is able to be moved inside and out.
Without hesitation and within a couple of weeks, Upside was able to create a space that truly is for everyone. Along with the accessible seating, they are now planning to design a tasting bar that will be at an accessible height for seated tastings by next year.
Creating a space for all, although may seem initially overwhelming, is not a complicated task. In order for people with mobility requirements to participate and experience the services and products available in the tourism space, there are three accessible features to address first. These features will help to ensure an enjoyable and memorable experience, worthy of several repeat visits and recommendations to MANY friends and family members! Keep it simple and start with these aspects to make your space accessible to all.
Simple, but Key Priorities
Accessible Parking
Paved or hard packed crush grade gravel surface.
Designate accessible parking spaces with:
Clearly marked lines.
Accessible parking signage on a post at the front of the parking space.
Ensure spaces are wide enough to accommodate a vehicle that may have a side lift or ramp - 3.9 meters wide.
For gravel surface parking lots:
Designate accessible parking closest to the main entrance access route.
Using spray paint is very effective for marking parking space lines.
When your able to re-paint your parking lot lines, here are best practice recommendations - Accessible Parking Stall
Main Entrance Access
Level/minimal slope access route to the main entrance.
Curb cut access from the parking area to the main entrance access route
If main entrance access is via stairs - ramp access is required.
Automatic/low touch/no touch main entrance door - minimum width 81.5 cm
OR easy push/pull main entrance door.
If applicable, loosen tension on overhead automatic door tension bar/closer unit.
Weather permitting, keeping the main entrance door in the open position is a temporary option.
Level/no step door thresholds.
Threshold ramps are a very inexpensive and easy way to eliminate a step-up door threshold that you may have anywhere throughout your site.
Accessible Washrooms
Ensure your washroom is wheelchair accessible.
Automatic, low touch or easy push/pull door - minimum width 81.5 cm.
Grab bars beside the toilet.
Roll under sink vanity height - minimum 68.5 cm / maximum 86.5 cm
152 cm floor space free of any obstruction.
An easy initial adjustment to allow for more space inside the washroom, is to ensure that the swing of the door swings out. This is also for safety reasons, in case someone were to fall up against the door inside the washroom and access was required.
Until a full renovation is possible, work with the washroom you presently have to re-configure, adjust and modify as best as possible to the best practice recommendations found here - Accessible Washroom
Further Recommendations
If your experience offers food & beverage service - ensure you have lower height tasting bars & table options for wheelchair users and individuals who require or prefer to be seated while eating and/or tasting.
Minimum height - 68.5 cm / floor to bottom of surface
Maximum height - 86.5 cm / floor to bottom of surface
Learn more about Accessibility Recommendations
Remember, accessibility and inclusion is so much more than 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 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.
TOTA’s Accessibility video, Accessibility in a New Light, gives us a better understanding of the importance and positive impact accessibility and inclusivity in our community can have on individuals.
About the Author
Born and raised in Kelowna, Jenna loves being able to be a tourist in her own backyard. As a Brand Ambassador for the Thompson Okanagan region, she hopes to be able to showcase the region’s local businesses and natural attractions to encourage others to come and enjoy them in a safe and sustainable way.
About the Author
Sonja Gaudet is a retired 3 X Paralympic Gold Medalist and most recently a Canadian Order of Sport Inductee 2020/21. She lives in Vernon with her husband Dan and two adult children, Alysha and Colten. Sonja has a passion in locating and creating accessible experiences in the Okanagan region. Some of her adventures include kayaking, exploring the accessible hiking trails with her dog Lina, and enjoying Charcuterie with her most recently discovered favorite glass of red wine, more than likely from somewhere in the South Okanagan or Similkameen region.
Swoop releases winter flying schedule, including flights between Kelowna International Airport and Toronto Pearson Airport
From Oct. 25, 2020 to Apr. 24, 2021, Swoop will connect Toronto and Kelowna with up to 4x weekly with service on Monday, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays.
Swoop has released its winter schedule, announcing that the ultra-low fare airline will begin flights between the Kelowna International Airport and Toronto Pearson International Airport on October 25, 2020.
From Oct. 25, 2020 to Apr. 24, 2021, Swoop will connect Toronto and Kelowna with up to 4x weekly with service on Monday, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays.
“We are very pleased to see Swoop return to YLW for the winter travel season,” says Sam Samaddar, Director, Kelowna International Airport. “This ultra-low fare airline has great opportunities for Kelowna residents to visit family and friends or enjoy a winter getaway with four weekly flights to Toronto served by good arrival and departure times.”
With safety as its number one priority, Swoop has implemented a robust set of measures to safeguard a safe and healthy travel and work environment for its travellers and crew. This includes stricter boarding processes allowing for shorter queue wait times, traveller screening measures, increased sanitization, and enforcing face masks to be worn for the duration of the flight.
“Our winter schedule is in response to a growing rebound in travel, as we know travellers are eager to plan their next getaway,” says Charles Duncan, President, Swoop. “We remain committed as ever to making affordable air travel accessible for Canadians who are looking to reconnect with family and friends over the holidays or are looking for a change in scenery this winter.”
“It is time to travel again, and that can be done responsibly and safely,” states Duncan. “We are focusing our efforts on encouraging travel with our ability to provide ultra-low fares to price-sensitive travellers.”
“Together with our airline and agency partners, we remain committed to providing a safe, hygienic and efficient travel experience, so passengers can travel with confidence through Toronto Pearson,” says Craig Bradbrook, Chief Operating Officer, Greater Toronto Airports Authority.
The announcement reflects the next step in Swoop’s recovery plans. The airline has remained operational throughout the pandemic, adjusting its network to reflect fluctuating demand.
Traveller demand, travel advisories, and health and safety conditions will be monitored over the coming weeks and months, which may cause adjustments to this schedule. For added flexibility, Swoop travellers have the option to purchase ModiFly, which grants them a one-time date and time change to their booking.
For more information, please visit FlySwoop.com.
About Swoop
Established in 2018, Swoop is Canada’s leading ultra-low-cost airline, independently operated as part of the WestJet Group of companies, offering point-to-point scheduled service to 23 seasonal and year-round destinations in Canada, the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean. Swoop offers completely unbundled products and services, creating the unique opportunity for travellers to control their costs and customize their experience by purchasing only the extras they desire.
Swoop operates a modern fleet of nine Boeing 737-800 aircraft, equipped with in-seat power and Wi-Fi connectivity. Swoop’s mobile app allows travellers to quickly and easily book flights, manage bookings, check-in, view boarding passes, track flights and access Wi-Fi service in-flight. For more details on Swoop, visit FlySwoop.com.
TOTA, Canadian Mental Health Association Kelowna, and Thoughtfull Offer Mental Health Support to Businesses Through COVID-19 Pandemic
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) signed a formal agreement with the Canadian Mental Health Association, Kelowna & District branch (CMHA Kelowna) and Thoughtfull Workplace Wellness Strategies. As an extension to TOTA's industry resiliency efforts, planned collaborative initiatives aim to mitigate the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental well-being of tourism business operators and workers.
Kelowna, BC (August 20, 2020) - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has signed a formal agreement with the Canadian Mental Health Association, Kelowna & District branch (CMHA Kelowna) and Thoughtfull Workplace Wellness Strategies. As an extension to TOTA's industry resiliency efforts, planned collaborative initiatives aim to mitigate the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental well-being of tourism business operators and workers.
"Mental health is an essential ingredient for resiliency. The COVID-19 Pandemic has been devastating in many ways, greatly affecting the people behind the numbers and figures," said Glenn Mandziuk, President and CEO of TOTA. "This formal agreement with CMHA Kelowna and Thoughtfull will help bridge gaps by supporting not only the tourism industry, but the communities it so greatly depends on."
CMHA Kelowna and Thoughtfull, a workplace consulting and training social enterprise run by CMHA Kelowna, represent a valuable resource for TOTA to relay knowledge and expertise in education, human resources, occupational health and safety, as well as crisis intervention to businesses in the tourism industry. Thoughtfull's workplace advisors will collaborate with TOTA to provide insights for campaigns and resources contributing to physical, mental, and financial resilience.
"Tourism is such an important industry for this region, but we know that many operators and their employees are facing high levels of stress due to significant challenges and a lot of unknowns. Financial resilience is just one piece of the puzzle. We also need to support the mental well-being of everyone in this sector," said Aaryn Secker, Manager of Learning & Development for CMHA Kelowna and Thoughtfull.
As part of this agreement, industry members of the Thompson Okanagan Resiliency Program will be able to access tailored workplace psychological health and safety training and advising through Thoughtfull at an exclusive reduced and subsidized rate by contacting their dedicated TOTA Program Advisor. In addition, CMHA will deliver programming through an ongoing webinar series with "Return to the Workplace: Considerations for Supporting Staff Mental Health" and "De-escalating Conflict".
For more information about the Thompson Okanagan Resiliency Program and to register visit TOTABC.org/Tourism-Resiliency.
Or register by phone: 1-877-431-8489 (ext 8).
If you are already part of the Tourism Resiliency Program, please contact your program advisor directly for more information on this program offering.
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About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA):
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the region, and is supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, & Culture. It 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. For more information, visit TOTABC.org.
About Canadian Mental Health Association Kelowna (CMHA Kelowna):
CMHA Kelowna is a registered non-profit charity serving the central Okanagan and part of a network of more than 80 Canadian Mental Health Association branches across the country. Each year they provide services and supports to more than 1.3 million Canadians through the combined efforts of more than 11,000 volunteers and staff in over 330 communities. CMHA Kelowna provides support through programs that promote positive mental health and support recovery, while championing the elimination of barriers that can prevent people from thriving. For more information, visit CMHAKelowna.org.
About Thoughtfull:
Thoughtfull is a workplace training and advising social enterprise of CMHA Kelowna. With the average working individual spending 90,000 hours or more of their life at work, CMHA Kelowna recognizes that they cannot achieve a mentally healthy community without addressing psychological health and safety at work. Thoughtfull is guided by Canada’s National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace. For more information, visit Thoughtfull.CMHAKelowna.com.
For more information, contact:
Ellen-Walker Matthews
Vice President, Stewardship
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
Marsha Walden Appointed as Destination Canada’s President & CEO
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages announced the appointment of Marsha Walden as Destination Canada’s President and Chief Executive Officer.
Walden joins Destination Canada from Destination British Columbia where she served as the President and CEO since 2013. There she successfully led the newly formed provincial Crown corporation to create ground-breaking strategies for tourism development and nationally recognized, data-driven performance marketing. Most recently, her attention has focused on leading the organization to support the ongoing recovery of BC’s tourism sector.
Destination Canada’s Board of Directors wishes to extend thanks to David Robinson, who led the organization as Interim President and CEO for the past six months, as well as the Senior Leadership team for their dedication and passion throughout the past months.
Walden’s first day with Destination Canada will be August 24, 2020.
Source: Destination Canada
Valemount Business Features
SmallBusinessEveryday.ca is a Canada-wide initiative of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) to encourage support of local businesses during this difficult time. As part of the campaign, Tourism Valemount has produced a series of 12 short video profiles of Valemount businesses with videography from Valemount Community TV (VCTV).
Beginning Monday, August 10, the videos will roll out on VCTV on Channel 7 locally and Channel 653 across Canada on the Bell and Telus satellite networks. They will play on VCTV back to back at 8:00 am, 12:00 pm, 6:00 pm, and 10:00 pm. Four local business profile videos will be released each week for the next three weeks.
Watch the videos at VisitValemount.ca/gallery under ‘videos’.
TOTA and Okanagan College Support Tourism Industry Through Expert Business Mentorship as Part of Resiliency Program
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association has signed a formal agreement with Okanagan College to provide one-on-one business training and mentoring sessions to tourism industry businesses and assist in managing COVID-19 related challenges. This collaboration forms part of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program, which has been established to provide support to the tourism industry to aid in recovery and regeneration.
Kelowna, BC (August 11th, 2020) - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association has signed a formal agreement with Okanagan College to provide one-on-one business training and mentoring sessions to tourism industry businesses and assist in managing COVID-19 related challenges. This collaboration forms part of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program, which has been established to provide support to the tourism industry to aid in recovery and regeneration.
TOTA's Resiliency Program Advisors are working together with Okanagan College staff and expert instructors to deliver virtual, one-hour individually tailored business counseling sessions based on expressed areas of need. Subject experts drawn from Okanagan College instructors have been assembled to provide support and mentorship in a wide variety of relevant subject areas including Leadership Soft Skills, Business Administration, and Hospitality topics.
“Okanagan College students, alumni, and employees lend their expertise to the tourism industry in so many ways and have for many years; this is yet another way we can continue to do that. We are very proud to be a part of the fabric of this industry that is so vital to our region, and to be able to contribute to its resiliency by providing innovative mentoring, education, and training to TOTA members,” said Bill Gillett, Dean of Okanagan College’s School of Business.
Where TOTA Program Advisors identify similar needs among multiple businesses, they will work with Okanagan College to create and deliver topic-specific webinars designed to address those needs. This expansion reflects an ongoing recognition that while every business is unique, often the challenges tourism businesses face are shared. Together, TOTA and Okanagan College are looking to support the tourism industry in the most targeted and efficient way possible.
"Industry resiliency is our key priority and the cornerstone of our efforts. This program is part of meeting immediate needs following the COVID-19 Pandemic," said Glenn Mandziuk, President and CEO of TOTA. "We are proud to be partnering with Okanagan College and know their expertise will serve as a tremendous resource for tourism businesses as we navigate the way forward."
To participate, register for the Thompson Okanagan Resiliency Program:
Register by phone: 1-877-431-8489 (ext 8)
About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA):
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the region, and is supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, & Culture. It 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. For more information, visit TOTABC.org.
About Okanagan College:
Okanagan College is a dedicated learner-centred institution, serving the largest number of post-secondary school students in the B.C. Interior. Okanagan College instructors bring out the best from the more than 20,000 people who take courses or programs through four regional campuses. Over the years, the College has done much to respond to the growing and shifting needs of the communities it serves. For more information, visit Okanagan.BC.ca
For more information, contact:
Ellen-Walker Matthews
Vice President, Stewardship
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
Discover Valemount Website Launch
Discover Valemount (DV) is an adventure tourism TV series that takes you along for the ride on all the incredible things to see and do in Valemount, BC and the area!
Join DV’s Host and guide, Jennifer Robinson, as she experiences all the fun things that you’d like to do: hiking, horseback riding and pack trips, whitewater rafting and gentle float trips on the mighty Fraser River, heli-hiking and heli-touring, events, Valemount’s famous salmon run, jeep tours and ranch nights. And don’t forget the winter fun: Valemount’s renowned mountain snowmobiling, cross country skiing, and back-country ski touring. Jenn will even show you how to use Valemount as an affordable headquarters while you explore the amazing scenery of Jasper National Park, only 120 km (72 miles) away.
Discover Valemount is co-produced by Valemount Community TV and the Village of Valemount Tourism Marketing Committee.
The series airs daily on VCTV (Channel 7 locally and Channel 653 on the Bell & Telus satellite networks) at 10 am, 2 pm, and 7 pm. It can also be seen on the Valemount Community TV YouTube Channel.
What's a great adventure tourism TV series without an awesome website? Don't ask us, because we've got a brand spanking new one!
Valemount Community TV and Tourism Valemount are super excited to have launched the website for Discover Valemount. Keep up with all the current filming news, check out the latest and past episodes and photos, or drop us a line with questions and comments. It'll all there! And check out the killer domain name we snagged - discovervalemount.today. Not boring old .com, or ho-hum .ca, it's .today. Go to www.discovervalemount.today to learn more!
"See you next time!"
Jennifer Robinson
Host/Co-producer
Discover Valemount
Tourism Valemount
Michael Peters
Cinematographer/Co-producer
Discover Valemount
VCTV
Community Futures and TOTA Offering Financial Support for Tourism Businesses through Micro Loans as Part of Tourism Resiliency Program
Kelowna, BC (August 5, 2020) - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is collaborating with Community Futures organizations across the region to assist in providing financial support to the tourism sector as part of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program. The Community Futures and TOTA taskforce is announcing the “Thompson Okanagan Tourism Micro Loan Program,” an initiative spearheaded by all nine Community Futures organizations located in TOTA’s region, which will offer micro loans to tourism businesses starting at $200 and up to $25,000.
"This new initiative represents a pivotal moment for the regional tourism sector as well as another important evolution of our work in helping the industry recover and become more resilient for the long term," said Glenn Mandziuk, President and CEO of TOTA. "The program will address the immediate need to mitigate financial impacts associated with additional costs and losses tourism businesses have been facing as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic."
In July 2020, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and nine Community Futures offices in the region signed a formal agreement, committing to the development of an active and meaningful relationship on the path to rebuilding a resilient tourism industry in the wake of the global Pandemic.
“Community Futures is in the business of assisting small business across the region, the province, and Canada. We have been a part of your community for over 35 years and we continue to support you with advice, training, and loans," said Rob Marshall, Executive Director for Community Futures Shuswap and Community Futures Provincial Board Member. The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Micro Loan Program is another example of partners working together to provide help in times of need to our essential tourism industry.”
The Community Futures and TOTA taskforce is working to implement projects, access needed resources, and share best practices to revitalize, support, and grow the tourism sector, during the pandemic and beyond. Efforts and strategies are focused on tourism growth, development, sustainability, and long-term resiliency. The “Thompson Okanagan Tourism Micro Loan Program" is in alignment with the previously announced Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) program which has, to date, provided $587,000 to 20 tourism businesses in the region.
Applicants to the program must be referred to Community Futures by a Tourism Resiliency Program Advisor and terms and conditions specific to each location apply.
Or register by phone: 1-877-431-8489 (ext 8).
About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA):
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the region, and is supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, & Culture. It 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. For more information, visit TOTABC.org.
About Community Futures :
Community Futures is a non-profit organization supporting small businesses through a range of services and tools. With experts offering local assistance from 34 offices throughout rural BC, they are committed to helping business owners achieve their goals and withstand challenges. TOTA is proud to be forming a joint tourism industry resiliency task force with this outstanding organization and collaborating towards positive advancements for the tourism industry, local businesses, and communities.
Community Futures Partners
Boundary - BoundaryCF.com
Central Interior First Nations - CFDCofCIFN.com
Central Okanagan - CFDCCO.bc.ca
Nicola Valley - CFDCNV.com
North Okanagan - FuturesBC.com
Okanagan / Similkameen - CFOkanagan.com
Shuswap - BeYourFuture.ca
Sun Country - CFSun.ca
Thompson Country - CommunityFutures.net
TOTA and go2HR Partner to Support Businesses on Occupational Health & Safety Through COVID-19 Pandemic
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and go2HR are supporting Biosphere Committed Companies in the region with resources for occupational health and safety, including enhancements specifically pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kelowna, BC (July 31, 2020) - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and go2HR are supporting Biosphere Committed Companies in the region with resources for occupational health and safety, including enhancements specifically pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic.
As part of the Biosphere Commitment Program, go2HR provides Biosphere Committed Companies with added value through the go2HR Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Biosphere Framework. The go2HR OHS Framework offers a roadmap for participating organizations to help them establish and maintain an effective health and safety program. Eligible businesses may choose to progress to the Certificate of Recognition (COR) program, a voluntary audit and incentive program.
"In the midst of a global Pandemic, occupational health and safety are of immeasurable importance for industry and community resiliency. Our partnership with go2HR has been of great value to businesses aligned with the Biosphere Adhesion Initiative," said Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President and CEO. "go2HR provides best practice training and resources for tourism businesses looking to enhance their workplace health and safety operations, which is now more important than ever. This partnership also helps our region align with several key Sustainable Development Goals as we continue to align with global sustainability objectives."
The go2HR OHS program includes one-on-one consultations, training sessions, online webinars, access to resources, and opportunities to complete certification programs.
“The importance of health & safety cannot be overstated, in the interest of workers, communities, and guests. go2HR is very pleased to partner with TOTA to support tourism employers in the region create and maintain safe workplaces, especially during these challenging times,” said Krista Bax, CEO, go2HR.
TOTA and go2HR have been in partnership for several years to enhance regional efforts and align tourism businesses with the Biosphere Destination Certification and the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
To learn more about this program, please contact:
Mike Overend
industrysupport@totabc.com
(778) 721-5462
Ginger Brunner
gbrunner@go2hr.ca
(250) 469-1032
About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA):
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the region, and is supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, & Culture. It 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. For more information, visit TOTABC.org.
About go2HR:
goHR is BC's tourism human resource and health and safety association and Certificate of Recognition (COR) certifying partner with WorkSafeBC. A non-profit, industry-led organization, go2HR provides health and safety and HR support and resources for industry employers as well as training and certification programs for prospective and current tourism and hospitality employees. For more information, visit go2.hr.ca.
17 Medals Awarded to Kamloops Wineries Including Best White Wine of the Year to Monte Creek Ranch Winery
Kamloops, BC, July 29, 2020 – Kamloops Wineries make a statement at the 2020 All Canadian Wine Championships winning a record breaking 17 medals including Best White Wine of the Year awarded to Monte Creek Ranch Winery for their 2018 Reserve Riesling.
Established in 1981, the All Canadian Wine Championships marks it 40th year judging the country’s top wines. 805 wines from 130 wineries across the country entered the competition this year. Using the 100-point scale, a panel of 11 esteemed judges assessed the wines based on sensory components, wine structure, varietal character, and overall quality.
Impressive scores bestowed upon three Kamloops Wineries; Harper’s Trail, Monte Creek Ranch, and Privato, resulted in the 17-medal showing including the region’s first ever Best White Wine of the Year Trophy going to Monte Creek Winery for their 2018 Reserve Riesling.
“We are beyond ecstatic to see the “Best White Wine of the Year Trophy” awarded to our very own Monte Creek Ranch Winery,” comments Trish Morelli, Executive Director, Kamloops Wineries Association. “This is a tremendous accomplishment and brings incredible honour and credibility to all of the wineries in the Thompson Valley. This recognition, combined with the 16 other medals won by our wineries, once again demonstrates the incredible quality, depth and skilled winemaking coming out of this region,” adds Morelli.
“I couldn’t be more of proud of our winemaking and viticulture teams,” says Erik Fisher, General
Manager of Monte Creek Ranch Winery. “It takes a tremendous amount of focus and precision to make great wine, and this recognition is a testament to the skill and hard work that goes into making a wine this special,” adds Fisher.
“The 2018 Thompson Valley Reserve Riesling is crafted from fruit grown on our two vineyard sites here in the South Thompson Valley,” comments Galen Barnhardt, Winemaker at Monte Creek Ranch. Riesling is well-adapted to our hot summers and cold winters, and we feel the future is bright for this variety in our region.”
The medal winning wines include:
• Best White Wine of the Year: Monte Creek Winery 2018 Riesling Reserve
• Gold: Monte Creek 2018 Varietal Series Riesling
• Gold: Monte Creek 2017 Hands Up Red
• Gold: Monte Creek 2018 Reserve Chardonnay
• Gold: Monte Creek 2018 Varietal Series Chardonnay
• Gold: Monte Creek 2019 Hands Up White
• Gold: Harper’s Trail 2019 Rose
• Gold: Harper’s Trail 2018 Cabernet Franc
• Gold: Privato 2017 Woodward Collection Merlot
• Silver: Harper’s Trail 2019 Pinot Gris
• Silver: Monte Creek N.V Split Decision Blueberry Grape Sparkling
• Silver: Monte Creek 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve
• Silver: Monte Creek Winery 2017 Cabernet Merlot
• Bronze: Privato 2019 Gewurztraminer
• Bronze: Privato 2019 Pinot Gris
A Double Gold Medal also went to Privato sister company, Woodward Cider Co. for Hang Time Peach Infused craft cider.
These award winning wines can be found, while they last, in select retail outlets and restaurants
throughout BC, or ordered direct from the wineries at, montecreekranch.com, harperstrail.com, and privato.ca.
For more information on the Kamloops Wine Trail and members wineries visit kamloopswinetrail.com.
For more information on the All Canadian Wine Championships visit allcanadianwinechampionships.com
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES
Trish Morelli
604.788.8997
Trish.morelli@gmail.com
Monte Creek Ranch Winery Wins Best White Wine of the Year Award
Kamloops, BC – July 29, 2020: Monte Creek Ranch Winery is pleased to announce that nine wines were awarded medals at the 2020 All Canadian Wine Championships, including Best White Wine of the Year for their 2018 Thompson Valley Reserve Riesling in this national level wine competition.
Best White Wine of the Year: 2018 Monte Creek Ranch Winery, Reserve Riesling
Gold: 2018 Monte Creek Ranch Winery, Reserve Chardonnay
Gold: 2018 Monte Creek Ranch Winery, Varietal Series Chardonnay
Gold: 2018 Monte Creek Ranch Winery, Varietal Series Riesling
Gold: 2019 Monte Creek Ranch Winery, Hands Up White
Gold: 2017 Monte Creek Ranch Winery, Hands Up Red
Silver: N/V Monte Creek Ranch Winery, Fruit Sparkling ‘Split Decision’
Silver: 2017 Monte Creek Ranch Winery, Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Silver: 2017 Monte Creek Ranch Winery, Varietal Series Cabernet Merlot
Erik Fisher, General Manager of Monte Creek Ranch Winery, said: “I couldn’t be more of proud of our winemaking and viticulture teams. It takes a tremendous amount of focus and precision to make great wines. I see the dedication on a daily basis but this recognition is a testament to the skill and hard work that goes into making a wine this special.”
Winemaker Galen Barnhardt noted: “The 2018 Thompson Valley Reserve Riesling is crafted from fruit grown on our two vineyards here in the South Thompson Valley. Riesling is well adapted to our hot summers and cold winters here in the South Thompson, and we feel the future is bright for this variety in our region.”
About the 2020 All Canadian Wine Championships
The 40th annual judging of the All Canadian Wine Championship 2020 was completed on July 24, 2020. The field of entries included 805 wines from 130 wineries throughout Canada, including those in British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Alberta, and Saskatchewan. Judges were comprised of the most experienced and unique pool of wine industry professionals including sommeliers, wine educators, bloggers, and members of the media. For more information visit: AllCanadianWineChampionships.com
About Monte Creek Ranch Winery
The Kamloops, BC area’s largest winery features award-winning wines, seasonal al fresco patio dining, and stunning river valley views. It was voted Kamloops’ Best Winery and Wedding Venue in 2020. Monte Creek Ranch Winery’s winemaking philosophy is to showcase the terroir of the South Thompson valley, where they produce Riesling, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and other premium wines.
Wines are available at the winery, on the Monte Creek Ranch website, and at selected retail locations. The winery is also open for tastings daily until the end of September.
FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Marketing Manager
Danielle Belcourt
danielle@montecreekranch.com
MonteCreekRanch.com
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Founding Signatory Future of Tourism Coalition
Kelowna, BC (July 23, 2020) - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has become a founding signatory with the Future of Tourism Coalition. As world tourism begins recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the coalition shares a global mission: to place destination needs at the center of tourism’s new future.
"TOTA is committed to transforming recent challenges into positive change as we navigate the way toward long-term recovery and resilience," said Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President and CEO. "We are truly honoured to be part of this international coalition. Healthy, inclusive communities and environmental stewardship are the keys to realizing our collective success."
Comprised of six non-governmental organizations, the Future of Tourism Coalition has collaboratively developed and launched a set of Guiding Principles. These outline a clear moral and business direction intended to help create a healthier tourism industry while protecting the places and people on which it depends.
“We consider Thompson Okanagan a global frontrunner in sustainable tourism with an exceptional record in creating synergies between local and Indigenous communities and businesses that work in a sustainable way,” said Albert Salman, President of Green Destinations and one of the Coalition’s founders. “We are proud to have Thompson Okanagan on board and look forward to working together with all the great people in the region.”
– 30 –
About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA):
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the region, and is supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, & Culture. It 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. For more information, visit totabc.org.
About the Future of Tourism Coalition
The Future of Tourism Coalition is comprised of six non-governmental organizations that have come together for the first time and stand united in their appeal for change. These organizations are: the Center for Responsible Travel (CREST), Destination Stewardship Center, Green Destinations, Sustainable Travel International, Tourism Cares, and the Travel Foundation, with the guidance of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). For more information, visit futureoftourism.org.
For more information, contact:
Ellen-Walker Matthews
Vice President, Market Stewardship
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
Eco Efficiency Program: TOTA Partners with FortisBC, GreenStep Solutions, and BC Hotel Association to Help Tourism Businesses Cut Costs
For Immediate Release
The Eco Efficiency Program will Provide One-On-One Support to Aid Economic Recovery Through Resource Conservation
Kelowna, BC (July 9, 2020) - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is working in partnership with FortisBC, GreenStep Solutions, and the BC Hotel Association to reduce costs for tourism businesses and aid economic recovery within the Thompson Okanagan region. The overarching goal of our partnership is to support regional tourism businesses by identifying operational inefficiencies, providing tools to address them, and ultimately reducing utility bills. As our industry continues to show incredible resiliency, this program is providing timely support to reduce costs and build a foundation for future utility savings and resource conservation.
A dedicated Energy Analyst, employed by TOTA and funded through FortisBC, will act as a technical resource and energy advocate for tourism stakeholders. The Energy Analyst will work closely with TOTA’s Destination Stewardship Team and GreenStep’s Business Advisors to implement the Eco Efficiency Program, which will include an onsite assessment and analysis of utility bill data. The Eco Efficiency Program will provide businesses with a detailed understanding of utility usage patterns and equipment performance and includes:
Energy consumption analysis, reporting and rebate opportunities;
Water consumption analysis and reporting;
Waste analysis and reporting, and;
Carbon software training and access to a carbon measurement platform to effectively measure your organization's carbon footprint.
"The business case for sustainability has never been more important. The tourism industry has been one of the hardest hit as a result of COVID-19, and experts agree that a green economic recovery will help businesses to save money while also meeting important environmental goals," said Angela Nagy, CEO of GreenStep Solutions. "We are thrilled to be partnering on this exciting initiative to help businesses identify opportunities to reduce both their costs and their eco footprint."
“We are proud to help Okanagan tourism businesses reach their energy efficiency goals affordably by lower operating costs,” commented Colin Norman, Manager, Conservation and Energy Management Portfolio and Marketing Strategies at FortisBC. “This is one of the ways we're demonstrating that, by working together, we can find ways to meet the province’s climate action goals.”
As a Regional Destination Management Organization, TOTA has committed to long term responsible tourism management as a Biosphere Certified Gold Destination and also the measurement of sustainable practices through the International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO).
Biosphere Committed companies who are interested in the full Eco Efficiency assessment will receive priority in the first phase of the program. Businesses that are not interested to join the Biosphere Commitment Program at this time and are only seeking an energy assessment can express their interest for a virtual energy-only assessment delivered by TOTA’s Energy Analyst. They will receive a detailed analysis of energy utility data benchmarking against similar properties in Canada, a report summarizing cost saving opportunities, and energy efficiency measures with a list of rebates and incentives available.
The BC Hotel Association is also offering the services of their dedicated Energy Analyst to conduct energy-only assessments for their members.
Through this partnership, regional tourism utility consumption data will also be collected and aggregated to share with the expanded monitoring programs TOTA has committed to, including the Biosphere Destination Gold Certification, the Biosphere Commitment Program, and our newly formed partnership with the United Nations World Tourism Organization as a Sustainable Tourism Observatory. This data will assist in achieving TOTA's goal of developing financial and environmental sustainability for the regional tourism industry.
To get started with the Eco Efficiency Assessment:
TOTA Biosphere Committed Companies are eligible for a full assessment (energy, water, waste and carbon footprint) at no cost through the Eco Efficiency Program and can register their interest at totabc.org/eco-assessment.
Tourism businesses in the Thompson Okanagan region can sign up for a complimentary energy assessment at totabc.org/eco-assessment.
BCHA members can apply through the BC Hotel Association GoGreen Analysis program at bcha.com/gogreen-analysis.html.
About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA):
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the region, and is supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, & Culture. It 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. For more information, visit TOTABC.org.
About FortisBC:
More than 2,400 employees work hard to provide natural gas and electricity to just over 1.2 million British Columbians, every day. As one of the largest energy providers in BC, FortisBC is putting more than 100 years of knowledge into creating a cleaner, healthier tomorrow. FortisBC understands the importance of a lower-carbon future and is committed to leading the way. For more information, visit FortisBC.com.
About GreenStep:
GreenStep was founded in 2008 to help small to medium sized enterprises reduce their environmental impacts and create a sustainability strategy for the future. To date, the organization has worked with over 2000 organizations of all sizes in a variety of industries such as tourism and hospitality, retail, professional services and manufacturing. Ultimately their goal is to help businesses improve their sustainability performance while also increasing their profits. For more information, visit GreenStepGlobal.com.
About BC Hotel Association:
With over 800 member hotels and associate members representing over 60,000 employees and 80,000 rooms contributing in excess of $3.2 Billion in revenue, the hotel industry’s value to the hospitality sector, the tourism industry, and the BC economy is significant. The BCHA works with the government and regulatory authorities to ensure a positive operating environment for the hotel industry to thrive in, particularly during economically challenging times. As the voice of the hotel industry at the Federal, Provincial and Community level, the BCHA is acknowledged as the champion of hotel related issues, including matters of taxation, tourism, marketing, corporate relations, labour, and consumer services, visit BCHA.com.
For more information, contact:
Ellen-Walker Matthews
Vice President, Market Stewardship
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
industry@totabc.com
(236) 361-4433
TOTA and Community Futures Partner Together to Support Local Business
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Kelowna, BC (July 7, 2020) - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and nine Community Futures offices across the Region have, for the first time, signed a formal agreement to strike a task force committing to develop an active and meaningful relationship on the path to rebuilding a resilient tourism industry in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"The negative impact of the pandemic on the Tourism Industry has been unprecedented, “ said Glenn Mandziuk, President and CEO of TOTA. “Building the industry back requires strong and collaborative partnerships that can provide foundational support and out of the box thinking."
TOTA and Community Futures’ efforts and strategies will be focused on tourism growth, development, sustainability, and long-term resiliency. Ongoing exchange and discussion will facilitate further advancement of best practices relating to the development of sustainable communities and destinations. Specific joint strategies will target identification and support of business funding opportunities as well as advancing knowledge on the visitor experience, training, employment, and innovation.
"We are pleased to be working in collaboration with other regional Community Future's offices and the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, to help move the Tourism Resiliency Program forward and assist our tourism industry in overcoming the challenges presented by the current COVID-19 crisis," commented George Caismar, Executive Director for the Central Interior First Nations Community Futures office.
“The partnership between TOTA and Community Futures is very timely. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a dramatic and devastating effect on tourism businesses in the Thompson Okanagan. Helping industry recover and become more resilient for the long term is imperative," noted Rob Marshall, Executive Director for Community Futures Shuswap and Community Futures Provincial Board Member. "Our two organizations have come together to implement projects, access needed resources, and share best practices to revitalize, support, and grow our tourism sector, during the pandemic and beyond. In short order, valuable synergies have been developed and will certainly result in successful outcomes.”
“This new agreement is a positive sign for people working in the tourism sector who have been adversely affected by the pandemic,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture. “It will take everyone continuing to work together to build our economy back up and this partnership is an excellent example of the teamwork needed to help tourism rebound in BC."
About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the region, and is supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, & Culture. It 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. For more information, visit totabc.org.
About Community Futures
Community Futures is a non-profit organization supporting small businesses through a range of services and tools. With experts offering local assistance from 34 offices throughout rural BC, Community Futures is committed to helping business owners achieve their goals and withstand challenges. TOTA is proud to form a joint tourism industry resiliency task force with this outstanding organization and collaborate on positive advancements for the tourism industry, local businesses, and communities.
Community Futures Partners
Boundary - BoundaryCF.com
Central Interior First Nations - CFDCofCIFN.com
Central Okanagan - CFDCCO.bc.ca
Nicola Valley - CFDCNV.com
North Okanagan - FuturesBC.com
Okanagan Similkameen - CFOkanagan.com
Shuswap - BeYourFuture.ca
Sun Country - CFSun.ca
Thompson Country - CommunityFutures.net
For more information, contact:
Ellen-Walker Matthews
Vice President, Market Stewardship
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
industry@totabc.com
(236) 361-4433
Social Enterprise Now Offering Adaptive Cycling Equipment Rentals
Independence Only One Call Away
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KELOWNA, BC (July 3, 2020) - Community Recreational Initiatives Society (CRIS) Adaptive Adventures social enterprise business, Adaptive Rentals, will provide everyone the opportunity to cycle trails and paths independently and experience the benefits of outdoor recreation this summer.
"We are celebrating this program as so much more than rentals, so much more than a social enterprise; It creates a louder voice for accessibility and inclusion in our communities,” said Shelley Buchanan Gilmore, CEO of CRIS Adaptive Adventures. "Adaptive Rentals is the first venture for CRIS into the world of social enterprise and along with the increased voice, we are looking forward to its success to assist with the sustainability of CRIS as a charity.”
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has been actively working with CRIS since 2019 to promote and encourage accessible travel activities and opportunities in the region.
"Accessible travel and travel for all is a critical part of the ongoing development of our tourism products and services," said Glenn Mandziuk, President and CEO of TOTA. "This initiative along with many others that are being planned bring us one step closer to the level of inclusivity we desire for our region."
The new Adaptive Rentals trailer for rentals and use is located at Mission Park Greenway in Kelowna, operating much like a traditional bicycle rental shop but focused on adaptive equipment such as recumbent cycles, tandems, E-Assist versions, trikes, and trail riders. Every client that rents will have a discussion with the CRIS team ahead of time to determine any further adaptations needed to ensure their safety and enjoyment.
“There are many people out there with impairments that may not be labelled a disability, perhaps an injury that they are recovering from such as a shoulder, knee, hip, or back problem. If riding a traditional bicycle isn’t possible, our recumbents might be the answer. Adaptive cycles are quite cost prohibitive for a lot of people and we want to make our fleet available to get people outside and overcome that barrier,” said Gilmore.
Learn more about Adaptive Rentals at AdaptiveAdventures.ca
About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA):
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the region, and is supported by the British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, & Culture. It 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. For more information, visit totabc.org.
About CRIS Adaptive:
The Community Recreational Initiatives Society (CRIS) was founded in 2001 and offers adaptive outdoor recreation in the Okanagan Valley under CRIS Adaptive Adventures for urban opportunities; CRIS Adaptive Travel for wilderness adventures; and the new CRIS Adaptive Rentals, launched July 1. For more information, visit AdaptiveAdventures.ca.
New Publication - Friday Fast Facts
TOTA has launched a bi-monthly newsletter capturing the latest industry research, Entitled Friday Fast Facts to provide tourism stakeholders with information to make smart business decisions. This publication will provide a regular and timely snapshot of the current state of the regional tourism industry providing in-depth insights.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association has been actively monitoring the impact of COVID-19 on the tourism industry through a variety of channels over the past several months. Business intelligence has been gathered from over 1,000 tourism stakeholders in the region via telephone and online surveys; data from our partnership with Environics Analytics received and analyzed weekly; and additional research has been sourced through the UN World Tourism Organization, Destination Canada, Destination BC, British Columbia Regional Tourism Secretariat. BC Hotel Association, go2HR, Community DMO Partners, just to name a few.
TOTA Joins Global Initiative on Safe Travels
KELOWNA, BC (June 25, 2020) - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is proud to announce that it has been recognized by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) as a Safe Travel Destination.
In response to the COVID-19 crisis, the WTTC, the global body representing the travel and tourism sector, produced safety and hygiene protocols and guidelines for re-opening tourism that have been embraced by over 1,200 major tourism companies, in over 80 destinations around the world.
As part of the initiative, the WTTC also introduced a Safe Travels Stamp which enables travellers to recognize destination authorities and companies that have implemented and aligned with the WTTC’s Safe Travels Protocols.
"The guidelines established in British Columbia through tourism sector partners and endorsed by WorkSafe BC not only meet but exceed those of the WTTC," noted Glenn Mandziuk, President and CEO of Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association. "We believed it was important to secure this designation as we begin to build back tourism and eventually welcome guests from around the world."
“British Columbians have worked hard to flatten the curve and help make it as safe as possible to travel in our province,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture. “Congratulations to Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association for this recognition and their work in helping keep visitors, workers, and communities safe during COVID-19.”
Communities, CDMO's, and Tourism Management Organizations in the Thompson Okanagan are able to utilize the Safe Travels Stamp under this agreement. Please contact us at recovery@totabc.com.
Individual Tourism Stakeholder Businesses can also request the use of the Safe Travels Stamp by completing the Safe Travels - Business Request Form.
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 throughout the region, and is supported by and representative of Destination British Columbia. It 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. For more information, visit totabc.org.
Province Seeks Public Input on Economic Recovery
On June 17, the Province of British Columbia announced a new consultation process for BC residents to voice their ideas on how the Province should allocate monies set aside for recovery.
The province released a paper explaining the consultation process, called “Building B.C.’s Recovery, Together: Share Your Ideas.”
There are three main ways for people to share their ideas, experiences, and priorities:
A) Online Survey – the fastest and easiest way to provide advice and answers to important questions. Complete the survey at: feedback.engage.gov.bc.ca/317781
B) Email – Submit a response to the paper “Building B.C.’s Recovery, Together: Share Your Ideas.” Ideas and responses can be submitted to: recoveryideas@gov.bc.ca
C) Virtual Town Halls – Participate in virtual town halls. British Columbians can learn more about the virtual town halls here: gov.bc.ca/recoveryideas