News & Resources

The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.

 
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New Biosphere Committed Company, Howling Moon Craft Cider

Howling Moon Craft Cider has joined the Biosphere Commitment Program to help guide the choices they make to ensure they are ingrained with sustainable decision making. There are many sustainable parts to Howling Moon Craft Cider and they are excited to start their Biosphere Journey. We are very pleased to welcome them to the Biosphere Commitment Program!

 
 

Howling Moon Craft Cider

Since inception, Howling Moon Craft Cider has been built on a value system of creating opportunity from resources that are undervalued and abundant. As Howling Moon Craft Cider and their family grows, it is important to them to recognize the impact they have on their community and their land, to ensure that they are contributing to positive change for future generations. They have joined the Biosphere Commitment Program with hope that the program will be a guiding light that helps them ensure the choices they make are ingrained with sustainable decision making.

“Sustainability is like an umbrella that spans each aspect of our business. It is a holistic approach to looking at the company and the choices that we make on a daily basis. It encompasses things like: where we purchase our ingredients, the packaging we use, how and where we market our products, how we manage waste, the impact our footprint has in our community, and the way we farm our apples.”

- Kate Dursick, Owner of Howling Moon Craft Cider

Sustainability touches on so many areas of their business at Howling Moon Craft Cider. Upcycling is something they have done since the beginning, finding a value stream for unwanted orchard fruit, protecting the waterways through Salmon Safe, finding fertile land for their orchard that requires minimal irrigation; these are all elements of their sustainability commitment that are intrinsically built into their daily life and decision making. The concept of creating opportunity from bioproducts that may have otherwise ended up in the landfill has given them a starting point for building a sustainable enterprise.

We are excited to be part of the Biosphere Commitment Program and looking forward to thinking about sustainability in a way that will allow us to develop a baseline and set metrics for improvement and take things to the next level.

-Kate Dursick


 
 
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B.C. Eased COVID Restrictions on February 16, 2022

B.C. eased some COVID-19 restrictions as of Feb. 16, 2022, while maintaining key protective measures to support the health and safety of all British Columbians.

While keeping the BC Vaccine Card, indoor masking requirements, and COVID-19 safety plans in place, B.C. lifted restrictions on personal gatherings, organized gatherings and events, nightclubs, bars and restaurants, exercise and fitness, and adult sports tournaments. Capacity limits will return to normal.

With more than 90% of eligible B.C. residents vaccinated with their second dose, British Columbia will transition to a sustainable COVID-19 management plan focusing on vaccination, self-monitoring and specific actions to protect those most at risk.

Based on hospitalization and critical care rates over the coming days and weeks, the provincial health officer will review the remaining protective measures by March 15, and again by April 12.

View Current Restrictions →

 

B.C. eased some COVID-19 restrictions as of Feb. 16, 2022, while maintaining key protective measures to support the health and safety of all British Columbians.

While keeping the BC Vaccine Card, indoor masking requirements, and COVID-19 safety plans in place, B.C. lifted restrictions on personal gatherings, organized gatherings and events, nightclubs, bars and restaurants, exercise and fitness, and adult sports tournaments. Capacity limits will return to normal.

With more than 90% of eligible B.C. residents vaccinated with their second dose, British Columbia will transition to a sustainable COVID-19 management plan focusing on vaccination, self-monitoring and specific actions to protect those most at risk.

Based on hospitalization and critical care rates over the coming days and weeks, the provincial health officer will review the remaining protective measures by March 15, and again by April 12.

View Current Restrictions →
View Announcement →

 
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New Biosphere Committed Company, Destination Silver Star

Welcome to Destination Silver Star! Joining the Biosphere Commitment Program allows the continuation of sustainability planning for Destination Silver Star along with supports to advance and create a Biosphere Sustainability Journey.

 

Credit: Destination BC/Ben Giesbrecht

Destination Silver Star

Destination Silver Star has joined the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, reflecting their core value of sustainability. Operating in Silver Star Provincial Park near Vernon, B.C., respect for the natural environment is considered the foundation of the destination's success. They continually seek balance in their actions, look to benefit the whole, and collaborate as partners in the community.

 

For Destination Silver Star’s community, sustainability is environmental, an efficiency first approach in destination development, and overall wellbeing that benefits the local and visitor economy.

Credit: Destination BC/Andrew Strain

2022 marks the first year of the resort association and they endeavour to lead sustainable initiatives across the destination with their members and for their visitors. The largest partner, Silver Star Mountain Resort, is committed to doing all that they can to protect the environment and enable participation in adventure support community. As a company they believe strongly in minimizing impact on the environment in order to preserve this incredible natural playground for generations to come.

Silver Star Mountain Resort invests heavily in:

  • Water management and conservation with 100% natural snow (reduces water, fuel and electricity with no snowmaking)

  • Emissions and fuel reduction with the industry’s newest grooming fleet

  • Expanded their recycling program

  • Energy management

  • Conservation

  • Green products

  • Government collaboration.


 
 
 
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BC Tourism & Hospitality Labour Market Recovery Framework

go2HR shared the results of their labour recovery framework which was built by representatives from industry associations and regional destination management organizations and go2HR.

This framework will serve as a pathway to partnership with governments as they continue to invest in the tourism industry’s recovery and longer-term growth.

The pillars are:

  1. Grow labour supply

  2. Renew our value

  3. Engage on housing

  4. Build back stronger

  5. Skills development

  6. Tech transformation

Learn More & Download Flatsheet →

 

go2HR shared the results of their labour recovery framework which was built by representatives from industry associations and regional destination management organizations and go2HR.

This framework will serve as a pathway to partnership with governments as they continue to invest in the tourism industry’s recovery and longer-term growth.

The pillars are:

  1. Grow labour supply

  2. Renew our value

  3. Engage on housing

  4. Build back stronger

  5. Skills development

  6. Tech transformation

Learn More & Download Flatsheet →


 
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go2HR and CMHA Launch Free Mental Health Skills Online Course

The Canadian Mental Health Association BC Chapter (CMHA BC) and go2HR have partnered on a new initiative to raise the awareness of mental health and wellness in the tourism and hospitality industry. As they continue prioritizing mental health and workplace wellness in 2022, go2HR encourages you to register for a new course in partnership with CMHA BC.

'Primary Concerns by Not 9 to 5' is a free online course that can help you maintain your mental health. It can also serve as a guide if you're holding space to care for another person experiencing an emotional or mental crisis.

Some of the things you'll learn:

  • Recognize the signs of mental health challenges and provide help to prevent or avoid crises Improve one's mental health

  • Support the creation of a psychologically safe workplace

Learn More →

 

The Canadian Mental Health Association BC Chapter (CMHA BC) and go2HR have partnered on a new initiative to raise the awareness of mental health and wellness in the tourism and hospitality industry. As they continue prioritizing mental health and workplace wellness in 2022, go2HR encourages you to register for a new course in partnership with CMHA BC.

'Primary Concerns by Not 9 to 5' is a free online course that can help you maintain your mental health. It can also serve as a guide if you're holding space to care for another person experiencing an emotional or mental crisis.

Some of the things you'll learn:

  • Recognize the signs of mental health challenges and provide help to prevent or avoid crises Improve one's mental health

  • Support the creation of a psychologically safe workplace

Learn More →


 
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B.C. Labour Market Outlook Report: Strong Demand for Accommodation, Food Services Sector Forecast

The provincial government’s 2021 Labour Market Outlook (LMO) forecasts more than one million job openings over the next decade.

The report points to a strong demand for workers in the accommodation and food services sectors. In fact, with 65,000 job openings over the next 10 years the sector is one of five industries to account for about half of total job openings.

In the big picture, there are 1,004,000 job openings expected through to 2031 across B.C., and 63% of them will be to replace people leaving the workforce permanently, such as retirees. The remaining 37% will be new jobs created by economic growth and pandemic recovery.

The report notes B.C.’s workforce will be required to build new skills and knowledge to keep pace with the openings. Nearly 80% of the future job openings will require some level of post-secondary education or training.

Learn More →

 

The provincial government’s 2021 Labour Market Outlook (LMO) forecasts more than one million job openings over the next decade.

The report points to a strong demand for workers in the accommodation and food services sectors. In fact, with 65,000 job openings over the next 10 years the sector is one of five industries to account for about half of total job openings. The other four are health care and social assistance; professional, scientific and technical services; retail trade; and construction.

In the big picture, there are 1,004,000 job openings expected through to 2031 across B.C., and 63% of them will be to replace people leaving the workforce permanently, such as retirees. The remaining 37% will be new jobs created by economic growth and pandemic recovery.

The report notes B.C.’s workforce will be required to build new skills and knowledge to keep pace with the openings. Nearly 80% of the future job openings will require some level of post-secondary education or training.

The LMO also assesses the continuation of historical productivity growth and automation trends. It incorporates the expected increase in productivity due to COVID-19 in industries including tourism and hospitality and retail, as well as other industry-specific trends.

Learn More →

 
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B.C. Tourism Business Events, Workforce Support Receive Grants

The new Business Events and Conferences Restart Fund will provide up to $5 million this fiscal year and up to $3 million next year to help restart business travel. Funding will be provided to city destination management organizations that were significantly involved in attracting and hosting business events, conferences and exhibitions before the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible organizations will be invited to submit proposals to access this funding.

To help address serious challenges to recruit and retain workers in tourism and hospitality, the Province is investing in human resources support for this sector. More than $1.3 million will fund dedicated human resources specialists in five tourism regions for two years. In partnership with the tourism industry’s human resources association, go2HR, these individuals will provide expert advice to tourism operators in each region, including workforce strategy, recruitment, onboarding, compensation, training, health and safety, and interpreting employment legislation.

Learn More →

 

Business events and workforce support initiatives, such as hiring and retaining employees, in the tourism sector will receive more than $9.3 million over the next two years as part of the Tourism Recovery Initiatives Action Plan.

The new Business Events and Conferences Restart Fund will provide up to $5 million this fiscal year and up to $3 million next year to help restart business travel. Funding will be provided to city destination management organizations that were significantly involved in attracting and hosting business events, conferences and exhibitions before the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible organizations will be invited to submit proposals to access this funding.

This investment will generate economic activity by drawing international visitors, who tend to spend more and stay longer, and often travel to other smaller destinations once their business travel is complete. Restarting business events also provides greater economic benefits for the services that support the sector, such as food services, audio-visual companies, event rental companies, event planners, and transportation companies that will subsequently benefit from the return of large conferences to the province.

To help address serious challenges to recruit and retain workers in tourism and hospitality, the Province is investing in human resources support for this sector. More than $1.3 million will fund dedicated human resources specialists in five tourism regions for two years. In partnership with the tourism industry’s human resources association, go2HR, these individuals will provide expert advice to tourism operators in each region, including workforce strategy, recruitment, onboarding, compensation, training, health and safety, and interpreting employment legislation.

In the coming weeks, go2HR will start recruiting in the Thompson Okanagan.

Government’s collaborative work to support the tourism sector continues and more support for marquee events, and tourism education and skills training will be announced soon.

Learn More →

 
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B.C. Tourism Recovery Initiatives Grants

The Tourism Recovery Initiatives Action Plan is B.C.’s comprehensive plan to support the survival, recovery and growth of the sector. This action plan is part of government’s quick response to the Tourism Task Force’s recommendations that demonstrates continued commitment to the recovery and resilience of tourism in B.C.

Business events and workforce support initiatives, such as hiring and retaining employees, in the tourism sector will receive more than $9.3 million over the next two years as part of B.C.’s Tourism Recovery Initiatives Action Plan.

The new Business Events and Conferences Restart Fund will provide up to $5 million this fiscal year and up to $3 million next year to help restart business travel. Funding will be provided to city destination management organizations that were significantly involved in attracting and hosting business events, conferences, and exhibitions before the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible organizations will be invited to submit proposals to access this funding.

More than $1.3 million will fund dedicated human resources specialists in five tourism regions for two years. In partnership with the tourism industry’s human resources association, go2HR, these individuals will provide expert advice to tourism operators in each region, including workforce strategy, recruitment, onboarding, compensation, training, health and safety, and interpreting employment legislation.

Government’s collaborative work to support the tourism sector continues and more support for marquee events, and tourism education and skills training will be announced soon.

View Press Release →

 

The Tourism Recovery Initiatives Action Plan is B.C.’s comprehensive plan to support the survival, recovery and growth of the sector. This action plan is part of government’s quick response to the Tourism Task Force’s recommendations that demonstrates continued commitment to the recovery and resilience of tourism in B.C.

Business events and workforce support initiatives, such as hiring and retaining employees, in the tourism sector will receive more than $9.3 million over the next two years as part of B.C.’s Tourism Recovery Initiatives Action Plan.

In response to the pandemic, the Province is investing in the restart of the business events and conferences sector, which was one of the hardest hit and may be one of the last to recover. This sector makes significant contributions to the provincial economy.

Business Events and Conferences Restart Fund

The new Business Events and Conferences Restart Fund will provide up to $5 million this fiscal year and up to $3 million next year to help restart business travel. Funding will be provided to city destination management organizations that were significantly involved in attracting and hosting business events, conferences, and exhibitions before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eligible organizations will be invited to submit proposals to access this funding.

This investment will generate economic activity by drawing international visitors, who tend to spend more and stay longer, and often travel to other smaller destinations once their business travel is complete. Restarting business events also provides greater economic benefits for the services that support the sector, such as food services, audio-visual companies, event rental companies, event planners, and transportation companies that will subsequently benefit from the return of large conferences to the province.

Regional Human Resources Specialists

To help address serious challenges to recruit and retain workers in tourism and hospitality, the Province is investing in human resources support for this sector. More than $1.3 million will fund dedicated human resources specialists in five tourism regions for two years. In partnership with the tourism industry’s human resources association, go2HR, these individuals will provide expert advice to tourism operators in each region, including workforce strategy, recruitment, onboarding, compensation, training, health and safety, and interpreting employment legislation.

In the coming weeks, go2HR will start recruiting on Vancouver Island and in the Thompson Okanagan, Northern BC, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast and Kootenay Rockies tourism regions. The model was developed based on the success of the Tourism Regional HR specialist position that was created by Destination BC in the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region in 2021.

Upcoming Announcements

Government’s collaborative work to support the tourism sector continues and more support for marquee events, and tourism education and skills training will be announced soon.

View Press Release →

 
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Hell or High Water BC Disaster Relief Concert & Telethon Fundraiser | March 13, 2022

The “Hell or High Water” live music concert and virtual live streaming telethon is scheduled for March 13, 2022, from 10 AM to 10 PM. The event is a fundraiser to support the British Columbia communities and people impacted by the 2021 wildfires and floods.

Proceeds will go to Merritt Rotary Club and partnered non-profits, who will disperse the funds to individuals affected by the natural disasters.

To learn more and donate, visit HellOrHighwater.ca.

Businesses can get involved as a Corporate Sponsor.

 

The founder of Rockin’ River Music Fest, Tourism Nicola Valley, and Eh Canada Travel have joined together to host the “Hell or High Water” live music concert and virtual live streaming telethon on March 13, 2022.

The event is a fundraiser to support the British Columbia communities and people impacted by the 2021 wildfires and floods. Proceeds will support people affected by the natural disasters around Merritt, Princeton, Lytton, and Abbotsford.

The event will be both in-person and virtually, with a live country music concert in Mission, B.C. at the Clarke Foundation Theatre and a live 12 hour live streaming telethon from 10 AM to 10 PM hosted in Merritt, B.C., including a live-stream of the music concert.

Donating to Hell or High Water includes opportunities to win prizes, such as:

  • Two tickets to a Vancouver Canucks Game

  • Golf & Stay Getaway

  • Tickets to Rockin River Music Festival

  • Two night stay at a Lakeside Cabin

  • Tickets to a Calgary Flames Game

To learn more and donate, visit HellOrHighwater.ca.

Businesses can get involved as a Corporate Sponsor.


Event Details

The event will feature 50+ musicians from across North America, including:

  • George Canyon

  • Loverboy

  • Lisa Brokop

  • Russel deCarle of Prairie Oyster

  • Chilliwack

  • Patricia Conroy

  • Crystal Shawanda

  • And more

Hell or High Water is a partnership between:

  • Kenny Hess (Founder of Rockin’ River Music Festival)

  • EH Canada Travel Marketing Group

  • Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly (Nooaitch, Coldwater, Shackan, and Cook’s Ferry Indian Bands)

  • Tourism Nicola Valley

  • Experience Nicola Valley

  • Merritt Rotary Club

 
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Update to Provincial Health Orders for Liquor Serving Establishments

On February 9, the B.C. Provincial Health Officer released additional guidance on how liquor-serving-only businesses can remain open by providing meals from external sources.

Liquor primary licensees that do not offer full meal service have been ordered closed since December 22, 2022. Since then, there has been considerable confusion from inspectors across B.C. on issues such as whether licensees could: 1) partner with a local pub, restaurant, or food truck to offer meals, or 2) remain open to serve liquor after closing kitchens for the evening, as is normal industry practice.

The order clarifies this process. ABLE BC and our industry partners worked directly with the PHO to bring about these necessary changes to support members who have been ordered closed simply because they did not have kitchens.

To summarize the changes:

  1. A liquor primary licensee that does not offer meal service (ie bars and nightclubs) may enter into a Catering Partnership Agreement with one or more catering partners to offer full meal service.

  2. A catering partner might include a food truck, catering company, or other food-serving premises such as a restaurant, pub, or quick-service restaurant.

  3. Full meal service means offering a wide variety of food, which may include appetizers, main courses, and desserts, but not just appetizers, tapas, dessert, or snacks such as popcorn, nuts, or chips.

  4. The licensee must maintain a record of sale of meals. This can be a copy of sales provided by the catering partner and does not need to include original receipts. This record must be available for inspectors at all times.

  5. Catering Partner Agreements must be available for inspectors at all times.

  6. Full meal service can be stopped up to three hours before ending liquor service.

  7. The order, for catering agreements, now has the same expiry date as the Gatherings and Events order, February 16, 2022, except for Part D (Proof of Vaccination) which is still set to expire on June 30, 2022.

View Revised Order →

A guidance document will also be available soon to assist licensees in interpreting the order.

 

On February 9, the B.C. Provincial Health Officer released additional guidance on how liquor-serving-only businesses can remain open by providing meals from external sources.

Liquor primary licensees that do not offer full meal service have been ordered closed since December 22, 2022. Since then, there has been considerable confusion from inspectors across B.C. on issues such as whether licensees could: 1) partner with a local pub, restaurant, or food truck to offer meals, or 2) remain open to serve liquor after closing kitchens for the evening, as is normal industry practice.

The order clarifies this process. ABLE BC and our industry partners worked directly with the PHO to bring about these necessary changes to support members who have been ordered closed simply because they did not have kitchens.

To summarize the changes:

  1. A liquor primary licensee that does not offer meal service (ie bars and nightclubs) may enter into a Catering Partnership Agreement with one or more catering partners to offer full meal service.

  2. A catering partner might include a food truck, catering company, or other food-serving premises such as a restaurant, pub, or quick-service restaurant.

  3. Full meal service means offering a wide variety of food, which may include appetizers, main courses, and desserts, but not just appetizers, tapas, dessert, or snacks such as popcorn, nuts, or chips.

  4. The licensee must maintain a record of sale of meals. This can be a copy of sales provided by the catering partner and does not need to include original receipts. This record must be available for inspectors at all times.

  5. Catering Partner Agreements must be available for inspectors at all times.

  6. Full meal service can be stopped up to three hours before ending liquor service.

  7. The order, for catering agreements, now has the same expiry date as the Gatherings and Events order, February 16, 2022, except for Part D (Proof of Vaccination) which is still set to expire on June 30, 2022.

View Revised Order →

A guidance document will also be available soon to assist licensees in interpreting the order.

 
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Minister Melanie Mark Addresses Tourism Community As Restrictions Ease

In an open letter to the tourism, arts, culture, creative and sport sectors, Minister Melanie Mark reflected on the challenges of the past two years and celebrates the people and businesses who have battled through the pandemic to keep their industries alive and the people of British Columbia safe.

On February 15, the Premier and Provincial Health Officer announced the lifting of many Provincial Public Health Orders, some of which have been in place to varying degrees for two years.

Minister Mark’s letter applauds the industries under her jurisdiction, and offers encouragement for a strong recovery and a brighter future.

 

In an open letter to the tourism, arts, culture, creative and sport sectors, Minister Melanie Mark reflected on the challenges of the past two years and celebrates the people and businesses who have battled through the pandemic to keep their industries alive and the people of British Columbia safe.

On February 15, the Premier and Provincial Health Officer announced the lifting of many Provincial Public Health Orders, some of which have been in place to varying degrees for two years.

Minister Mark’s letter applauds the industries under her jurisdiction, and offers encouragement for a strong recovery and a brighter future.


“Dear partners,

On February 15, 2022, the Honourable John Horgan, Premier; the Honourable Adrian Dix, Minister of Health; and Dr. Bonnie Henry, the Provincial Health Officer, announced the lifting of many of the Public Health Orders that were in place to keep us safe over the past two years. This announcement marked a change in tide and symbolizes a significant milestone in our collective fight against COVID-19 in British Columbia (B.C.) and a significant step forward for many of your businesses and the economy.

As of today, we can once again gather with the people who mean the most to us, indoors and outdoors, and at venues. We can return to restaurants and nightlife, tournaments, and important life events like weddings and celebrations of life. These are the activities that add meaning to our lives, and I am thrilled that we have come this far.

To be sure, the sectors that the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport is responsible for have borne the brunt of restrictions designed to protect our health system from COVID-19. You are in the “people business” and have built your livelihoods around bringing joy and creating memories for visitors and the residents of our province. There is nothing quite like hosting large events or hosting travellers to our province and sharing with them the best of B.C., inspiring children through the power of sport, dancing to your favourite band, or expressing your creativity in front of a live audience. I know how hard it has been to be unable to do the things we all love, and I am deeply grateful for your resilience in the face of adversity brought about by the pandemic.

Since the very beginning of my appointment as Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, I was struck by your determination to manage through the pandemic and to keep people safe – your clients, employees, and broader communities. Time and again, you adapted your operations to protect people’s health, you shared best practices with your colleagues, and you stepped up as leaders even when times were very difficult.

I am immensely grateful for your ongoing engagement with Ministry staff and me, providing your advice, feedback, and recommendations. There is no doubt that we would not have weathered this storm as well as we have without your commitment to working in partnership with Government.

Together, we can now look towards a brighter future for everyone in our province. Because of your advocacy, we made investments in each sector to help lay a foundation for a strong recovery. We have much to look forward to this spring and summer, both in our personal lives and in the work we do everyday to make life better for people in our province.

I am looking forward to travelling the province this summer and getting to meet some of you in person, and experience firsthand the results of all your hard work. While I will not have the opportunity to meet all of you, I am committed to continuing the open and constructive dialogue we established over these past months. I believe that we have emerged from this storm more resilient, collaborative, and innovative than we were before.

On behalf of Premier Horgan and the entire B.C. Government, thank you for your sacrifices, hard work, and your dedication that allowed us to get this far.

I am your biggest fan. Let us keep paddling together.

Sincerely,

Melanie Mark

Hli Haykwhl Ẃii Xsgaak

Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport

 
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BC Parks Additions Strengthen Protection of Wildlife Habitat, Ecosystems

Legislation has been introduced to expand B.C.’s parks and protected areas system, contributing to existing ecosystem conservation and expanding opportunities for outdoor recreation. The additions include the following lands in the Thompson Okanagan region:

  • Blue River Black Spruce Park (near Blue River): 59 hectares to protect a wetland and the ecological integrity of the North Thompson River.

  • Edge Hills Park (near Clinton): 50 hectares to enhance wildlife connectivity and protection of the Fraser River bluffs.

  • Okanagan Mountain Park (near Kelowna): 21 hectares to enhance wildlife connectivity and species protection, along with the addition of the Golden Mile Trail for recreation.

  • Gladstone Park (near Christina Lake): six hectares to add additional shorefront lands on the north end of Christina Lake, which is an important kokanee spawning area.

To further protect lake values, 27 hectares of lake foreshore would be added to Christina Lake Park, Kootenay Lake Park, Gladstone Park, and Purcell Wilderness Conservancy Park.

Boundary modifications to correct administrative errors and address safety issues would also be made at Big White Mountain Ecological Reserve.

Learn More →

 

Increased protection for diverse wildlife habitat, wetlands, and bolstering the natural legacy of existing parks are all parts of strategic land additions to strengthen B.C.’s system of parks and protected areas.

Legislation has been introduced to expand the parks and protected areas system, contributing to existing ecosystem conservation and expanding opportunities for outdoor recreation.

The additions, proposed through legislative amendments to the Protected Areas of British Columbia Act, include the following lands in the Thompson Okanagan region:

  • Blue River Black Spruce Park (near Blue River): 59 hectares to protect a wetland and the ecological integrity of the North Thompson River.

  • Edge Hills Park (near Clinton): 50 hectares to enhance wildlife connectivity and protection of the Fraser River bluffs.

  • Okanagan Mountain Park (near Kelowna): 21 hectares to enhance wildlife connectivity and species protection, along with the addition of the Golden Mile Trail for recreation.

  • Gladstone Park (near Christina Lake): six hectares to add additional shorefront lands on the north end of Christina Lake, which is an important kokanee spawning area.

To further protect lake values, 27 hectares of lake foreshore would be added to Christina Lake Park, Kootenay Lake Park, Gladstone Park, and Purcell Wilderness Conservancy Park.

Boundary modifications to correct administrative errors and address safety issues would also be made at Big White Mountain Ecological Reserve.

This continues the Province’s efforts to enhance protection of wildlife habitat, better reflect Indigenous Peoples’ history and cultures in parks for a deeper understanding of connection to the land, and create more opportunities for camping and outdoor recreation.

During the past four years, more than 1,700 campsites have been added to provincial parks and recreation sites, including the new Skyview Campground in E.C. Manning Park, which has 62 fully serviced campsites available in winter and 92 sites in summer.

Learn More →

 
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Portal for Federal Subsidies for Period 24 (December 19, 2021, to January 15, 2022)

The federal government announced that the application portals for business subsidy programs will open on the following dates:

  1. Period 24: February 7, 2022

  2. Period 25: March 1, 2022

Go to Portal →

Regulatory changes announced in December temporarily expand eligibility for wage and commercial rent support for businesses and other organizations under the Local Lockdown Program. These changes would:

  1. Apply to claim periods 24 and 25 (December 19, 2021, to February 12, 2022)

  2. Allow those entities to qualify if they are subject to a capacity-limiting public health restriction of 50 per cent or more

  3. Reduce the current-month revenue decline threshold requirement to 25 per cent for those entities

Learn More →

As a reminder, the federal subsidies available are:

  1. Tourism and Hospitality Recovery Program

  2. Canada Recovery Hiring Program

  3. Hardest-Hit Business Recovery Program

  4. Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit

  5. Local Lockdown Program

 

The federal government announced that the application portals for business subsidy programs will open on the following dates:

  1. Period 24: February 7, 2022

  2. Period 25: March 1, 2022

Go to Portal →

Regulatory changes announced in December temporarily expand eligibility for wage and commercial rent support for businesses and other organizations under the Local Lockdown Program. These changes would:

  1. Apply to claim periods 24 and 25 (December 19, 2021, to February 12, 2022)

  2. Allow those entities to qualify if they are subject to a capacity-limiting public health restriction of 50 per cent or more

  3. Reduce the current-month revenue decline threshold requirement to 25 per cent for those entities

Learn More →

As a reminder, the federal subsidies available are:

  1. Tourism and Hospitality Recovery Program

  2. Canada Recovery Hiring Program

  3. Hardest-Hit Business Recovery Program

  4. Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit

  5. Local Lockdown Program

 
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Alberta & Saskatchewan End Proof of Vaccination Requirement

On February 8, Alberta removed the Restrictions Exemption Program (proof of vaccination) and capacity limits on venues under 500 capacity, and allows for food and beverage consumption in seated audience settings for large events and entertainment venues.

View Press Release →

Saskatchewan is ending the Proof of Vaccination Requirement on Monday, February 14. The public health orders requiring masking in indoor public spaces will remain in effect until the end of February.

View Press Release →

 

Alberta

On February 8, Alberta removed the Restrictions Exemption Program (proof of vaccination) and capacity limits on venues under 500 capacity, and will allow for food and beverage consumption in seated audience settings for large events and entertainment venues.

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Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan is ending the Proof of Vaccination Requirement on Monday, February 14. The public health orders requiring masking in indoor public spaces will remain in effect until the end of February.

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B.C. Government Lays Out Vision for Post-pandemic Recovery in Throne Speech

The B.C. government is focusing on getting through the COVID-19 pandemic while committing to invest in safe workplaces and new schools; and lobbying Ottawa for more money for healthcare. Government stated that in the year ahead, they will fight climate change, help communities adapt to extreme weather, make everyday life more affordable, and ensure sustainable, economic growth.

Next week the province will unveil an economic recovery plan and provincial officer Dr. Bonnie Henry is likely to announce an easing of COVID-19 restrictions. In two weeks, the province will present a budget charting the financial road map to fulfill the commitments made by the government.

Learn More & Watch Recording →

 

On February 8, 2022, Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin read the Speech from the Throne, outlining the province's vision for the next year.

The B.C. government is focusing on getting through the rest of the COVID-19 pandemic while committing to invest in safe workplaces, new schools, and lobbying Ottawa for more money for health-care.

Government has stated that in the year ahead, they will also fight climate change, help communities adapt to extreme weather, make everyday life more affordable, and ensure sustainable, economic growth.

Specific actions the government will take in the coming months include:

  1. Tying minimum wage increases to the rate of inflation;

  2. Protecting people buying homes in a volatile market by introducing a cooling-off period on home purchases;

  3. Helping prepare people for the jobs of the future with a generational commitment to develop the talent B.C. needs over the next 10 years to close the skills gap;

  4. Moving forward on Reconciliation by working to implement the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act through an action plan drafted in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples;

  5. Recognizing British Columbians’ shared history by taking a major step towards establishing the first Chinese Canadian Museum in Canada and modernizing the Royal BC Museum; and

  6. Improving management of B.C.'s land and resources by creating a new ministry to better support goals of reconciliation, economic development, and environmental protection.

The speech also sets up three significant announcements expected over the next two weeks.

Next week the province will be unveiling an economic recovery plan and provincial officer Dr. Bonnie Henry is likely going to announce an easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

In two weeks’ time, the province will present a budget charting the financial road map to fulfill the commitments made by the government. TIABC will be at budget lock-up in Victoria and will provide a synopsis on the implications of Budget 2022 on the tourism sector.

Learn More & Watch Recording →

 
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Indigenous Tourism BC Launches Corporate Retreats, Experiences Campaign

Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) is launching a campaign to encourage corporations, organizations, and special interest groups to book retreats, meetings, workshops, and educational experiences with Indigenous tourism businesses in British Columbia.

B.C.'s Indigenous tourism operators provide both space and leadership for learning, reflection, and dialogue. This is a valuable means for organizations that are looking to implement Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action or for educators that are seeking to apply First Nations learning principles.

ITBC encourages everyone to participate and support Indigenous tourism businesses in B.C., representing the diverse and living Indigenous peoples and cultures in present-day B.C..

Groups can experience and learn from Indigenous-owned businesses such as accommodations, outdoor experiences, event facilities, food & beverage establishment, cultural centres, gift shops, and galleries.

Thompson Okanagan Indigenous services providers listed include:

  1. Quaaout Lodge and Spa at Talking Rock Golf Resort - Chase

  2. Jack Sam's Restaurant at Quaaout Lodge - Chase

  3. Moccasin Trails - Kamloops and Kelowna

  4. Nk'Mip Cultural Centre - Osoyoos

  5. Kekuli Cafe - West Kelowna, Merritt

Learn More & View Indigenous Service Providers→

 

Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) is launching a campaign to encourage corporations, organizations, and special interest groups to book retreats, meetings, workshops, and educational experiences with Indigenous tourism businesses in British Columbia.

B.C.'s Indigenous tourism operators provide both space and leadership for learning, reflection, and dialogue. This is a valuable means for organizations that are looking to implement Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action or for educators that are seeking to apply First Nations learning principles.

ITBC encourages everyone to participate and support Indigenous tourism businesses in B.C., representing the diverse and living Indigenous peoples and cultures in present-day B.C..

When finding new ways to conduct business and improve relationships with Indigenous Peoples and partners, organizations and their teams can both experience and learn from Indigenous-owned businesses that include accommodations, outdoor experiences, event facilities, food & beverage establishment, cultural centres, gift shops, and galleries.

Thompson Okanagan Indigenous services providers listed include:

  1. Quaaout Lodge and Spa at Talking Rock Golf Resort - Chase

  2. Jack Sam's Restaurant at Quaaout Lodge - Chase

  3. Moccasin Trails - Kamloops and Kelowna

  4. Nk'Mip Cultural Centre - Osoyoos

  5. Kekuli Cafe - West Kelowna, Merritt

Learn More & View Indigenous Service Providers→

 
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BC Hotel Association Encourages Accommodation Sector to Source Locally

The British Columbia Hotel Association (BCHA) has launched a new video encouraging the province's accommodation sector to invest in local businesses and help build back B.C.'s economy stronger than ever.

While the campaign is directed to accommodators, it's beneficial for all sectors to support local when possible. When sourcing new products or services, be sure to seek and consider B.C. and Canadian businesses.

Learn More & Explore Local Businesses →

 

The British Columbia Hotel Association (BCHA) has launched a new video encouraging the province's accommodation sector to invest in local businesses and help build back B.C.'s economy stronger than ever.

Funded by the Government of Canada and delivered through provincial and territorial chambers of commerce, the BCHA was among 88 applicants to receive a grant from the Shop Local initiative that encourages Canadians to spend their dollars locally to help businesses navigate through the pandemic beyond.

Learn More & Explore Local Businesses →

While the campaign is directed to accommodators, it's beneficial for all sectors to support local when possible. When sourcing new products or services, be sure to seek and consider B.C. and Canadian businesses.

Reasons for Companies to Shop Local

  1. Contribute to Community Growth and Cohesiveness

  2. You Can Buy It Where You Try It

  3. Give Back to Your Community

  4. Independent Businesses Help Give a Destination Its Distinct Personality

 
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Largest Solar Power Wall in North America

Toronto is soon to be home to the largest solar power wall in North America. Through the technology of photovoltaics, the wall panels replicate the exterior finishes of typical buildings that many passersby will not be aware of the difference. The wall will be 7,000 square feet and generate 90,000 kWh of energy annually.

 

Toronto is getting the largest solar power generating wall in North America!

A relatively recent innovation is changing these preconceived notions of power generation being ugly, the advent of photovoltaic walls integrated into building cladding opening up the doors for green energy production in the most unexpected places.

Known as building-integrated photovoltaics, or BIPV, these panels replicate the exterior finishes of typical buildings you see walking down any city street, all while harnessing the green energy of the sun. In most cases, passersby would have few clues alerting them to the eco-friendly power plants hidden in these panels.

Though it's still in its infancy, the technology is taking a big leap right here in Toronto, where an enormous 7,000-square-foot wall — the largest BIPV wall in North America to date — is being installed. The record breaking wall is expected to generate 90,000 kWh of energy for the building annually, slashing it carbon footprint in the process.

And while you'd think these systems would add astronomical construction costs to a new building, they're actually relatively cheap, and can pay for themselves through off-grid power generation in just a few years.

Green energy incentives like federal funding of $10 billion through the Canada Infrastructure Bank towards green power projects are among the policy moves from above that might be able to sway more movers and shakers to implement this tech in the future.

 
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Free Business Mentorship Sessions with Okanagan College Instructors

Okanagan College instructors are available to deliver virtual, one-hour individually tailored business counselling sessions on a variety of leadership soft skills, business administration, and hospitality topics.

This service is offered free of charge through the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program, for a limited time.

Register for an Okanagan College Mentorship Meeting →

 

Okanagan College instructors are available to deliver virtual, one-hour individually tailored business counselling sessions based on expressed areas of need.

This service is offered free of charge through the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program, for a limited time. Mentors can provide support on a variety of leadership soft skills, business administration, and hospitality topics.

Register for an Okanagan College Mentorship Meeting →

 
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Annual Shuswap Trail Alliance Virtual Fundraiser Now Open | Buy Tickets & Place Bids by Feb 20, 2022

The Shuswap Trail Alliance (STA) is hosting its much-anticipated annual fundraiser February 4-20, 2022.

The fundraiser includes:

  • Online silent auction featuring local businesses

  • 50/50 raffle – last year’s winner took home over $3,500!!

  • Limited-edition STA toques, while supplies last

Funds raised will allow the Shuswap Trail Alliance to work with regional partners throughout the year. The funds are leveraged with matching grants, donations, in-kind contributions, dedicated community project budgets, and an extraordinary contribution of volunteer time to grow local greenway trails throughout the region.

Buy Tickets & Place Bids →

 

The Shuswap Trail Alliance (STA) is hosting its much-anticipated annual fundraiser February 4-20, 2022.

The fundraiser includes:

  • Online silent auction featuring local businesses

  • 50/50 raffle – last year’s winner took home over $3,500!!

  • Limited-edition STA toques, while supplies last

Funds raised will allow the Shuswap Trail Alliance to work with regional partners throughout the year. The funds are leveraged with matching grants, donations, in-kind contributions, dedicated community project budgets, and an extraordinary contribution of volunteer time to grow local greenway trails throughout the region.

Buy Tickets & Place Bids →

Through the generous support of businesses and individuals alike, last year’s Silent Auction raised over $57,000 in support of STA trail projects throughout the region.

The Shuswap Trail Alliance auction committee thanks and invites everyone throughout the region to participate in the Online Auction. They look forward to seeing you online for the fundraiser and in-person out on the trails.

 
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