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.

BC Resources for Coping With Disaster Stress

The Canadian Mental Health Association BC Division has compiled resources related to coping from stress from natural disasters.

Helpful links and resources

Preparing for wildfires

• Get prepared for a wildfire in BC (Government of BC)

Health and mental health

• Coping through a natural disaster emergency – mental health tips for you and your family

• Recognizing and addressing trauma and anxiety during wildfire season (First Nations Health Authority)

• Recognizing and resolving trauma in children during disasters (First Nations Health Authority)

• Disaster emotional response timeline – what to expect before, during and after a disaster

• Your health during a wildfire (Government of BC)

• Wildfire smoke and health (BC Centre for Disease Control)

Direct help for stress

• Free, confidential support and crisis lines available 24/7:
  KUU-US Indigenous line 1-800-588-8717
  Interior BC Crisis Line 1-888-353-2273 – chat and text services available
  Northern BC Crisis Line 1-888-562-1214
  BC Mental Health Support Line 310-6789 (no area code required)

• BounceBack – a free skill-building program for overcoming low mood, anxiety stress or worry

• Find your local Canadian Mental Health Association

Information provided by the Canadian Mental Health Association in partnership with the Province of BC, First Nations Health Authority, Interior Health, Northern Health and Provincial Health Services Authority.

Glenn Fawcett Given the Award of Distinction from Wine Growers of British Columbia

Congratulations to Glenn Fawcett on being recognized for his considerable contributions to the wine industry by the Wine Growers British Columbia (WGBC) with its highest honour – the WGBC Award of Distinction. The Award of Distinction recognizes a winery representative for their outstanding leadership, commitment and passion for the advancement of the British Columbia wine industry.

Previous winners of this prestigious award include wine industry luminaries such as Howard Soon, Sandhill (Andrew Peller); Harry McWatters, Time Winery; and Tony Stewart, Quails’ Gate Winery.

During his 35-year career as an entrepreneur and innovator Fawcett has founded and/or consulted to numerous successful companies including Therapy Vineyards and Guesthouse and Black Hills Estate Winery. Fawcett is also a sought-after industry consultant under his company Vinequest Ltd.

Free Access to B.C. Accommodation Performance Tracking Data

View fullsize

Screenshot of STR Accommodation Benchmarking Dashboard

Accommodation operators have a unique opportunity to learn more about the performance of B.C.'s hotel, lodge, and B&B performance, with no cost to participate.

As we all move toward recovery, it’s never been more important to strategize around pricing and understanding whether to try and recoup occupancy rates or maintain room rates.

STR’s weekly reporting tool enables accommodation providers to see how their own property is performing against those within the local market - both geographic area and class of accommodation.

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How It Works

STR collects rooms available, rooms sold, and net room revenue on a monthly, weekly, and daily basis from participating hotels. Data is then fed back to all participants in reports - and via your own dashboard. All individual hotel data remains confidential and is never released to a third party.

Your participation assists not only your property, but also your local market and the entire province. Participation is fast and easy, taking less than 5 minutes a month.

• Watch video overview of BC’s 2021 hotel performance

• Watch demo video of the FREE hotel benchmarking dashboard

• View STR FAQ and blog

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Background

The BC Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS) and BC Hotel Association (BCHA) have teamed up with STR to help more accommodation owners join and benefit from this program.

Weekly and monthly STR reports that detail accommodation performance across the province are provided to the Regional DMO partners each week by Symphony Tourism Services. The aim of the BCRTS partners, BCHA, and STR is to increase hotel participation so that quality and accuracy of data increases for everyone across British Columbia.

STR, BC Hotel Association (BCHA), BC Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS), and Symphony Tourism Services have teamed up with to help more accommodation operators join and benefit from this program.

New Biosphere Committed Members - July

We are pleased to welcome Clos du Soleil Winery, Tightrope Winery, Sperling Vineyards, Quaaout Lodge & Spa at Talking Rock Resort, and Le Vieux Pin Winery to our Biosphere Community!

Clos du Soleil is a tightly-knit team with a common philosophy: our land and the life it contains is a gift, and as stewards of the land it is our privilege to produce wines which are a reflection of this land. Based in the Similkameen Valley, Clos du Soleil is a small artisan winery and estate vineyard. Managing Director and Winemaker Michael Clark states, “Organic certification is really central to our whole approach at Clos du Soleil. We put a great deal of effort into producing wines of place; wines that speak of the land on which they were grown. Organic practices are a crucial part of that process by encouraging healthy soils, and healthy vines, which make for more expressive wines”.

Learn more about Clos du Soleil here.

From the beginning, Graham & Lyndsay knew they wanted Tightrope Winery to be a sustainable business. After all, the property was also to be the home to their young family, and they wanted to ensure it would be a healthy environment for their family for generations. Graham embarked on a journey to create a framework for sustainability and became one of the founding Directors with Sustainable Winegrowing BC (SWBC). Tightrope’s sustainability efforts go beyond environmental stewardship and they also focus on social equity, economic development and how the greater community is affected.

Learn more about Tightrope Winery here.

Sperling Vineyards has been four generations in the making and they have been certified organic since 2017. Sperling Vineyards also recently became a member of Regeneration Canada, a movement supporting soil regeneration. Ann Sperling explained, "We are part of this organization to help get the word out about farmers who are committed to grasslands, permanent cover crops, and farming that benefits the environment. Our treed perimeters, bushes and permanent cover crops sequester carbon from the atmosphere unlike conventional agriculture with tillage that releases CO2."

Learn more about Sperling Vineyards here.

Quaaout Lodge & Spa at Talking Rock Resort is proudly owned by the Little Shuswap Lake Band. The Resort sits on Skwlax Territory and is home to the Secwepemc people. Little Shuswap Lake Band members conceived the idea of a hotel to spur economic development with a sustainable business venture, offering employment and long term security for the band and its members. Guests can reconnect with nature and the culture of the land, with Secwepemc culture woven into each experience.

Learn more about Quaaout Lodge at Talking Rock Resort here.

Named for the solitary majestic old growth pine of their Oliver estate, Le Vieux Pin sits perched amidst the famed vineyards of the Black Sage Bench. Since releasing their first vintage in 2005, Le Vieux Pin has captured the essence of traditional French winemaking, along with the bold New World character distinct to the region. Le Vieux Pin uses low input viticulture and non-interventionist winemaking to make exclusive vintages that carry with them a sense of time and place. They believe that engaging in sustainable and organic practices should be done for the good of the land for the good of those who work it.

Learn more about Le Vieux Pin here.

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Attractions Get Support to Anchor Their Communities

More than 80 anchor attractions and tour bus operators in B.C. will receive direct support for their recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thompson Okanagan recipients include:

• Kamloops Art Gallery - Kamloops

• Thompson Valley Charters Ltd.- Kamloops

• Big White Ski Resort Ltd - Kelowna

• Bluestar Coach Lines - Kelowna

• Energyplex Family Recreation Centre Kelowna Inc.-Kelowna

• Sky Trek Adventure Park Ltd. - Malakwa

• Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre - Osoyoos

• Hoodoo Adventure Company Ltd. - Penticton

• Penticton Art Gallery - Penticton

• S.S. Sicamous Marine Heritage Society - Penticton

• Top Cat Tours Ltd. - Penticton

• Kettle Valley Railway Society - Summerland

• A1 Bus Ltd. - Vernon

• Splashdown Vernon - Vernon

• Vernon Science & Discovery Society - Vernon

• Splash ON Water Parks Ltd. - West Kelowna

“Today is an exciting day for our major anchor attractions that, because of the restrictions that have been in place throughout the pandemic, made sacrifices to keep us all safe,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “The sector called on government to provide grants, not loans, and we worked with tourism sector leaders to make sure these vital businesses and non-profits can continue to employ residents and draw visitors to attractions throughout B.C.”

B.C.’s anchor attractions play an important role in B.C.’s economy by drawing visitors to communities and supporting local small businesses throughout the province. Tour bus companies are a key link to bring travellers to many of the regional destinations, attractions and experiences.

The Major Anchor Attractions Program, first announced in May 2021, was one of the seven calls to action from the Tourism Task Force. Grants of up to $1 million will be provided to both businesses and not-for-profits, including:

• 23 urban anchor attractions;

• 34 rural anchor attractions; and

• 26 tour bus operators.

Organizations can use the grants to pay for rent and utilities, payroll and costs related to restarting or ramping up operations and other business expenses that will help them recover from the impacts of the pandemic. For example, Richmond Night Market will use its $1-million grant to help it maintain its role as a significant attraction in the City of Richmond.

Since the start of the pandemic, the B.C. government has worked with industry to provide relief and support. In addition to the Major Anchors Attraction Program, the Province has provided the following:

• A $100-million tourism-specific stream under the Small and Medium Size Business Recovery Grant program.

• $5 million was allocated in dedicated relief funding delivered by Indigenous Tourism BC for Indigenous tourism businesses.

• $53 million has been invested in community-based tourism infrastructure and destination development to help tourism in B.C. recover, create jobs and spur economic development.

• The Province partnered with go2HR to design a COVID-19 safety certificate course for the tourism and hospitality workforce.

• Budget 2021 includes an additional $50 million in to support tourism recovery and $20 million for community-based tourism infrastructure.

For a complete list of supports, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/factsheets/covid-19-economic-recovery-plan-boosts-bc-tourism-industry

Quick Facts:

• Applications for the Major Anchor Attractions Program opened June 7, 2021.

• Major anchor attractions in urban centres that receive 75,000 or more visitors per year were eligible for up to $1 million.

• Major anchor attractions in rural areas that receive 15,000 or more visitors per year were eligible for up to $500,000.

• Tour bus companies that serve 30,000 or more passengers per year were eligible for up to $500,000.

• A total of $36.3 million was allocated to grant recipients throughout the province.

Learn More:

For a list of BC Major Anchor Attractions recipients by region, visit: http://news.gov.bc.ca/files/7-23_BCMAA.pdf

Resource Roundup | Emergency Wildfire Resources

Sunset from atop Battle Bluff, Thompson Valley
Credit: Destination BC/Andrew Strain

Wildfires across the province have become significant enough that the BC government declared a provincial state of emergency effective July 21, 2021 to support the province wide response to the ongoing wildfire situation. The government is working with the tourism sector to convey the message that many areas of B.C. are open to travel, but public safety is paramount.

TOTA employs a Crisis Management Coordinator, who regularly engages with Emergency Management BC, to closely monitor the region and work with impacted communities, tourism businesses, Indigenous partners, and other stakeholders. 

As well, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program advisors continue to support tourism business operators in the region and are available to provide 1:1 support and plans for moving forward.

We know this is a challenging time for many tourism businesses who have just entered Step 3 of the B.C. Restart Plan and in need of a busy season to recover.

We invite you to share your current experiences so we can inform government of the evolving situation, such as:

• Are you receiving cancellations that are due to concerns (real or perceived) with the wildfire situation?

• Are your customers expressing concern about their plans and whether or not to continue their vacation?

• Are your customers proceeding regardless of the wildfires and smoke, but changing their itinerary as the situation evolves?

• Are you facing any other crisis related challenges?

Feel free to email Recovery@TOTABC.com with any information on the following questions and other concerns.

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Register in TOTA's Emergency Contact Database

We request that all tourism companies in the Thompson Okanagan region complete the Emergency Contact form to help TOTA's Crisis Management Coordinator support you and other communities in a crisis situation. Thank you.

Register Your Emergency Contact Info

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Emergency Preparedness Resources

Destination BC Resources

Destination BC has prepared current Emergency Messaging Guidance to help the tourism industry navigate questions, mitigate visitor concerns, and proactively manage perceptions.

As part of this, industry partners are encouraged to use the hashtag #RealTime[community name] on social media to ensure current and future visitors have an accurate ‘real time’ visual on current conditions (blue skies, business as usual etc.). Add the date and time the photo was taken, and tag key tourism partners in your post (@DestinationBC / @ThompsnOkanagan on Twitter, @HelloBC / @Thompson_Okanagan on Instagram, and @ThompsonOkanagan on Facebook ) and your Community DMO partners so it can be amplified.

The messaging guidance can be found on Destination BC's Emergency Preparedness page, along with safe and responsible travel graphics for you to use on your channels, a visitor-facing safe travel brochure (web and print version), and the links to Know Before You Go information.

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Provincial Resources

We have compiled the latest resources to support tourism businesses through this time. We encourage tourism business operators to review the emergency preparedness information below (and on the TOTA Emergency Preparedness page for future reference).

Important resources for communities, destination marketing organizations (DMO's) and tourism operators to use to communicate with guests and prospective visitors can be found here:

1. go2HR Emergency Planning Resources for Tourism Operators including templates, tools, and checklists

2. PreparedBC's 3 steps for preparedness

3. EmergencyInfoBC for evacuation orders

4. B.C. Wildfire Preparedness Guide

5. BC Wildfire Service and interactive map

6. Air Quality Health Index map

7. DriveBC's info about road closures, major events and transportation delays

8. Destination BC's "Know Before You Go" for visitors

9. Thompson Okanagan’s “Know Before You Go” for visitors

Financial Resources

Business and Agriculture Recovery Programs

• The Agri-Business Planning Program provides support for Disaster recovery planning to help producers implement an immediate and long-term disaster recovery plan. The program will provide access to basic financial analysis, specialized business planning and coaching services.
   

• ​Community Futures provides on-the-ground support for businesses. Businesses having a difficult time managing cash flow, planning for the future, selling their business, or seeking other support are encouraged to contact their regional/ local Community Futures Office to learn about the range of support available.

• InvestLocalBC is a crowdfunding platform designed for local nonprofits to create online forums to fund, support and evolve their initiatives and projects. The standard five per cent fixed funding administrative fee is waived for non-profit organizations, businesses and arts and cultural organizations experiencing impacts from wildfires.

Preparing to Support People with Unique Preparedness Needs

Resources to support people with various abilities in preparing for an emergency. You may need to think about additional preparations for guests with hearing, mobility, speech, cognitive, or other challenges.

Learn More

Recovering After a Wildfire

• Recovering after a wildfire and Recovering after a flood pages provide steps to consider before you re-enter or clean your home.

• Visit a Red Cross Support Center or call 1 800 863-6582 (Monday to Friday from 8AM to 4PM PT) to make an appointment.

• Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) can provide answers to individuals and businesses with insurance questions and concerns.

• The Ministry of Children and Family Development can be reached at 1 877 387-7027 to access services for children, families and caregivers, including child and youth mental-health services.

Federal Recovery Programs

• Tourism Relief Fund (TRF): to help tourism businesses and organizations adapt their operations to meet public health requirements while investing in products and services to facilitate their future growth. The $500 million national initiative across Canada will be administered by Western Economic Diversification in Western Canada.

• Canadian Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS): Subsidy to cover a portion of eligible expenses until September 25, 2021. Also includes an additional Lockdown Support of 25% if your business was significantly affected by a public health order. Hotline: 1-800-959-5525

• Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP): Aimed at sectors like tourism and hospitality, hotels, arts and entertainment, and will offer 100% government-guaranteed financing and provide low-interest loans up to $1 million for up to ten years.

• Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS): Covers part of your employee wages retroactively back to December 20, 2020 until September 25, 2021. The maximum subsidy is 75%. Hotline: 1-800-959-5525

• Canada Recovery Hiring Program (CRHP): The new Canada Recovery Hiring Program (CRHP) is designed to encourage businesses to grow as the economy recovers, whether it’s due to hiring and rehiring staff, increasing shifts, or increasing overall pay. Note: Your business can only claim the CEWS or CRHP - here is a comparison between the two programs.

• Indigenous Programs: First Peoples' Cultural Council Arts Program. Grants ranging from $3,000 to $20,000 for Indigenous B.C. residents open for the Spring 2021 intake.

First Nations Wildfire Supports

The Province of B.C. works closely with First Nations, local authorities, and businesses to ensure programs are in place to help those impacted by emergencies and to discuss local solutions for community recovery.

• First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) Environmental Public Health Services provides public health inspection, assessment and advisory services for in-community facilities.

• The Local Authorities and First Nations Recovery Toolkit (PDF, 500KB) is intended to guide Local Authorities and First Nations as they plan for disaster recovery, including planning for community recovery, infrastructure recovery, demobilization and debris management.

• The Financial Assistance for Emergency Response and Recovery Costs: A Guide for Local Authorities and First Nations (PDF, 971KB) provides local authorities and First Nations in British Columbia with information on the procedures required to maximize claims for financial assistance with the costs of both response and recovery.

Top Ten Steps to Prepare your Business for Evacuation

If you are on evacuation alert or think you will be put on evacuation alert, there are some important steps you will want to consider. If you have an evacuation plan, review the plan and start the implementation process.

If you do not have an evacuation plan, you can review this print-friendly list of 10 things to consider for your business to prepare by the British Columbia Economic Development Association (BCEDA).

General Tourism Resources

For the latest industry info and trends, you can refer to TOTA's News Centre, Research page, Resiliency Research page and Fast Facts publication.

We also recommend signing up for the Destination BC and Destination Canada industry newsletters for additional tourism industry news.

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Names New President & CEO

Kelowna, BC – Michael J Ballingall, Board Chair of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, formally announced the appointment of Ellen Walker-Matthews as the CEO of the destination management organization.

Walker-Matthews succeeds Glenn Mandziuk, who officially resigned from the position June 25, 2021 after heading the organization for the past 13 years.

Ballingall indicated that the association is being placed in very capable hands. “Ellen has an extensive history with TOTA during which she has built a stellar reputation. In the past six months she has continued to demonstrate the leadership qualities that both the sector and our organization require as we forge our way through the COVID pandemic and look to create a strong path moving forward.”

“The past 15 months have been incredibly challenging for the tourism industry and individual businesses,” said Walker-Matthews. “I am surrounded by an incredible team and supportive Board and am honoured to play a role in helping the sector not only get back on its feet – but come back stronger than ever and carve out an exciting future for tourism in this region.”

Ballingall and Walker-Matthews. Walker-Matthews has spent the past 29 years living in Summerland, BC – so, it is only fitting that the signing of the formal agreement would take place in the community she calls home.

Walker-Matthews has more than 40 years of experience in the hospitality, travel, and tourism industry, including the last 11 with TOTA in various capacities, including Vice President of Stewardship, Senior Vice President and, for the past six months, Acting President and CEO. She has spearheaded and played a significant role in key initiatives including Biosphere Certification, GreenStep Certification, and Green Destination Top 100; overseeing the Tourism Resiliency Program; development and implementation of regional tourism strategies; and sales, marketing, and business plans.

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism region includes 90 communities and hamlets and 33 Indigenous communities – and is located on the unceded, ancestral, and traditional territory of three Interior Salish nations: the Syilx, Nlaka’pamux, and Secwépemc Peoples.

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About TOTA

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) provides destination development, marketing, industry and experience development, and research services in an effort to minimize the industry's impact on our natural and cultural resources. For more information, visit TOTABC.org

Media Contact:

Kelly Gleeson
kgleeson@LBMG.ca
604-240-6231

FireSmart Community Funding & Support

The First Nations’ Emergency Services Society, the Forest Enhancement Society of BC and the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) are working with the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations & Rural Development to deliver the FireSmart Community Funding & Supports program.

Eligible applicants:

• Include all local governments (municipalities and regional districts) and First Nations (bands, Treaty First Nations and Indigenous National Governments with authority for lands and resources) in BC are eligible to apply.

• May apply for up to $50,000 or $150,000, depending on their specific risk of wildfire. There are opportunities to apply for additional funding for regional districts, and for fuel management proposals that include Provincial Crown land within and adjacent to community boundaries. Information on determining risk is provided in Appendix 2 of the Program Guide.

For enquiries about the program or application process, please contact UBCM at cri@ubcm.ca or 250-356-2947.

The FireSmart Begins at Home Manual was developed to help people reduce the risk of personal property damage due to wildfires.

Download FireSmart Guides & Manuals here.

Click here for more information and to apply.