News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Is Biosphere Certified
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is thrilled to have once again completed its annual Biosphere Certification Audit.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is thrilled to have once again completed its annual Biosphere Certification Audit. This annual reporting provides the opportunity to review and confirm continuous improvement against the 17 Sustainable Development Goal Measures.
"The time to consider making change is behind us; our industry must work together to adopt practices and policies now that will protect and preserve the very experiences our residents value and that we invite visitors to enjoy," notes Walker-Matthews, "The responsibility is ours, individually, collectively and urgently."
Tourism businesses within the region can participate in the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program, which equips tourism businesses with tools and resources to continuously measure, manage, and report sustainability management efforts.
Board Director Election Voting Begins October 1, 2024
The TOTA board director election will be open October 1 to 14, 2024. Learn about the candidates and how voting members can vote.
Electronic voting for the TOTA Board Election will be open from October 1 to October 14, 4:30 pm.
Voting stakeholders received an email invite on October 1 from TOTA through Election Runner (noreply@electionrunner.com) with a link and instructions to vote for the board of directors.
There are a total of 12 board candidates for the 10 open positions. Each individual would be a tremendous asset to the TOTA board.
Candidates
For profiles of each candidate, go to TOTABC.org/agm.
Current directors, running for an additional term:
AJ Bachhal, Best Western Plus Gateway to the Falls
North Thompson
Accommodation
Mandi Carroll, Westbank First Nation
Central Okanagan
Other: Community
Kelley Glazer, Destination Osoyoos
South Okanagan
DMO
Kimo Linders, ERTCU Travel Group
All sub regions
Other: Receptive tour operator
Morgen Matheson, Tourism Shuswap / Columbia Shuswap Regional District
Shuswap
DMO
Ed Ratuski, YKA Kamloops Airport
South Thompson
Other - Transportation
Cassandra Zerebeski, Destination Silver Star
North Okanagan
DMO
New candidates:
Vicki Dalgleish, Sandman Hotel Group
North Thompson, South Thompson, Gold Country, North Okanagan, Central Okanagan, South Okanagan, and Similkameen
Accommodation
Lumin McCutcheon, Trails to the Boundary Society
Boundary Country
Other
Lara Pethybridge, Andrew Peller Ltd (Gray Monk, Sandhill, Black Hills, Tinhorn Creek, Red Rooster)
Central Okanagan, South Okanagan
Wine & Culinary
Natasha Rojas, Wine Tours Gone South
South Okanagan
Other - Tour operator
Colin Ross, Peak Cellars
Central Okanagan
Wine & Culinary
This is an outstanding list of candidates, and we look forward to announcing and welcoming the new board directors at the TOTA AGM on October 29.
More Information
For questions, please email the TOTA Board Liaison at BoardLiaison@TOTABC.com.
Spring 2024 Beverage Industry Training Program Summary
The "Beverage Industry Training" (BIT) program, a collaborative initiative between the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), Okanagan College, and an independent consultant, recently concluded with notable success. This comprehensive, two-week program aimed to enhance the skills and knowledge of 20 participants within the South Okanagan beverage industry, covering wine, beer, and spirits and providing essential industry certifications.
The "Beverage Industry Training" (BIT) program, a collaborative initiative between the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA), Okanagan College, and an independent consultant, recently concluded with notable success. This comprehensive, two-week program aimed to enhance the skills and knowledge of 20 participants within the South Okanagan beverage industry, covering wine, beer, and spirits and providing essential industry certifications. The BIT program participants included new hires in wineries, breweries, distilleries, and tasting rooms, owners of small wineries, and existing staff seeking foundational knowledge and opportunities for career advancement.
The BIT program combined practical skills, industry insights, and career development opportunities to address the critical need for skilled personnel retention and enhancement. Participants were taught and immersed in the South Okanagan beverage community, gaining exposure to grape varieties, production methods, and the regional context.
A panel of industry experts was consulted to develop the program’s curriculum, ensuring it met the current needs and standards of the South Okanagan beverage industry. The program also utilized Roots & Vines to transport participants to wineries, breweries, distilleries, and cideries. This arrangement allowed participants to gain hands-on learning experiences in various beverage production environments.
The program's comprehensive curriculum covered several key modules designed to equip participants with a broad spectrum of skills and knowledge essential for the beverage industry.
Foundations for Industry Professionals
This module explored the unique flavor profile of the South Okanagan's beverage scene, delving into the region's history, terroir, and community connections. Emphasis was placed on customer service excellence to enhance guest experiences through effective communication and hospitality, preparing participants to handle challenging situations with professionalism. Additionally, this segment provided essential knowledge on financial literacy, compliance with regulations, and navigating licensing and safety protocols.
Teamwork and Collaboration
The Teamwork and Collaboration module focused on fostering positive relationships with colleagues and industry partners. Training included conflict resolution and team-building techniques, enabling participants to work cohesively in a professional environment.
Storytelling and Sales
This segment highlighted the construction of compelling sales narratives using traditional storytelling techniques. Participants learned to share regional stories effectively, engaging customers and enhancing their sales strategies.
Retention Strategies for Employers
In this module, strategies for employee engagement, career pathways, and promoting work-life balance were discussed to enhance job satisfaction and retention. The content aimed at helping employers develop a supportive and motivating work environment.
Challenges and Adaptability
Lastly, the Challenges and Adaptability module prepared participants to handle emergency protocols during wildfire seasons, manage air quality issues, and support community resilience during challenging times. This training was crucial for ensuring that participants could maintain operations and support their communities in the face of adversity.
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. One participant remarked, "Such a great introduction to the field of the Beverage Industry. Can’t say enough about the two weeks of classes and field trips. Everything about this course was perfect!! Loved it!"
Participants completed the program with a robust understanding of the beverage industry specific to the South Okanagan region. They were equipped to solve real-world challenges in winemaking, brewing, and distillation, manage beverage-related projects effectively, and appreciate the significance of sustainable practices for long-term success.
Building on the initial program's success, plans are underway for a Tier 2 program that will offer more advanced skills and leadership development. This upcoming program will explore craftsmanship and quality assurance, covering advanced winemaking, brewing, and distillation techniques to ensure precision, consistency, and excellence. Participants will stay updated on industry trends and innovation and learn to implement the best product development and marketing practices. Leadership and mentorship will be key components, focusing on effective management strategies, developing mentorship programs, and fostering a learning culture. Business sustainability and succession planning will be emphasized to ensure business continuity and growth, preparing participants for leadership transitions. Advanced retention strategies for employers will also be included, covering talent development, recognition programs, and employee wellness initiatives. Additionally, the program will address challenges and resilience, helping participants adapt to climate variability, plan for emergency preparedness, and strengthen community support during difficult times.
The successful completion of the Beverage Industry Training program highlighted its value in cultivating an appreciation for the beverage industry and its impact on local culture. By equipping participants with the necessary skills and knowledge, the BIT program has significantly contributed to the professional growth of individuals and the overall enhancement of the South Okanagan beverage industry.
Future Programs
Based on the success of the Spring 2024 Beverage Industry Training Program, a secondary Fall 2024 intake has been created. Interested parties are invited to watch the TOTA Industry Training Centre to learn about ongoing, and future upcoming training programs.
Get Involved: Help Shape the Future of the TNRD Parks and Trails System
The Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) is inviting residents to take a short survey about their experiences at the park to help shape the future of TNRD parks and trail systems.
The Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) is inviting residents to take a short survey about their experiences at the park to help shape the future of TNRD parks and trail systems.
The Parks and Trails Strategic Plan will evaluate the existing assets, designate community or regional parks, identify opportunities for future development, and more.
The survey is open until October 7, 2024. Read more about the strategic plan and take the survey.
Local Escapes: Similkameen Valley
Local Escapes explores the Similkameen Valley in partnership with DBC.
Join Liem Vu and Local Escapes and experience Keremeos fruit stands, The Grist Mill and Gardens, a horseback winery tour with Equines and Wine, and more in the Similkameen Valley.
Add tags for
Any relevant companies: DBC, Destination Canada, TIABC etc.
Any relevant sub regions: North Okanagan, Central Okanagan, South Okanagan, Similkameen, North Thompson, South Thompson, Gold Country, Boundary Country, Shuswap
Sectors
Wine & Spirits
Accommodation
Transportation
Outdoor Adventures
CDMOs
Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Showcasing Grand Forks Recovery From 2018 Floods
In 2018, severe flooding occurred in Grand Forks, B.C. but the community has made significant strides in recovery and resilience. This video from the Government of BC highlights the efforts.
In 2018, the spring thaw caused intense flooding in Grand Forks, B.C. Many people lost their homes, businesses, and livelihoods. Six years later, the community has come a long way towards recovery and built up resilience to handle extreme weather in the future. A video release from the Government of BC shows the extraordinary efforts, and stories on the path to future flood mitigation, and how far they have come, in the city of Grand Forks.
Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission Business and Workforce Survey
The Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission (COEDC) is inviting businesses, residents, and local workers to complete a short survey to understand the needs of local businesses and the workforce, as well as the perceptions of business owners and employee’s regarding working and doing business in the region.
Survey respondents can enter to win one of two $150 prepaid Visas or one of two $100 local business gift baskets.
The survey is open until September 30, 2024.
Funding Opportunities Available
The Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development, and Innovation has made a list of available funding opportunities for eligible businesses, organizations, and communities.
ETSI-BC Fall 2024 Funding Intake
The Economic Trust of the Southern Interior has announced its fall funding intake with $625,000 available this funding cycle for different projects.
Local communities, First Nations, economic development organizations, and industry groups within the Southern Interior of British Columbia are eligible to apply.
BCTCRI: Project One Fall Application Intake is Now Open
Project One of the BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative (BCTCRI)– Facilitated Sustainable Tourism and Climate Adaptation Planning for Tourism Businesses, provides free support to BC-based tourism businesses looking to include sustainability measures into their operations, strategy, and storytelling.
Applicants are connected with a program advisor who will work one-on-one with businesses to help them develop a customized plan to improve sustainability within their operations.
The Fall 2024 intake is now open and accepting applications on a first-come, first-served basis.
Tourism Kamloops Launches New Website & Brand Refresh
Tourism Kamloops has announced the official launch of the brand-new website and refreshed Tourism Kamloops brand.
Tourism Kamloops has announced the official launch of the brand-new website and refreshed Tourism Kamloops brand.
The new website features images and videos as well as increased mobile optimization for more mobile-friendly browsing.
The refreshed branding, including colours, language, and logos, reflects the true nature of Kamloops - rugged landscapes, sunny skies, wide open spaces, and a vibrant blend of urban culture.
Learn more about the full Tourism Kamloops brand refresh.
Working Effectively with Indigenous Peoples® Workshop
Registration is now open for the Working Effectively with Indigenous Peoples® workshop.
In an effort to support community-based needs within the industry Destination BC (DBC) is running two free virtual training sessions titled “Working Effectively with Indigenous Peoples®” these session aims to deepen Indigenous awareness and strengthen community connections.
These workshops will help attendees build:
Indigenous Awareness
&
Indigenous Relations
Registration is now open for the fall sessions running on October 21, 2024, and December 5, 2024.
Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program (REDIP) Grant Intake Now Open
The Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program (REDIP) is a grant launched by the Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation (JEDI) that supports projects that promote economic diversification, resilience, clean growth opportunities, and infrastructure development.
The Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program (REDIP) is a grant launched by the Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation (JEDI), with a funding allocation of $33M per year. REDIP supports projects that promote the following:
Economic diversification
Resilience
Clean growth opportunities
Infrastructure development
Learn more and apply for the third intake of REDIP. This intake will close on October 31st at 11:59 PM PST.
AGM & Board Director Call for Nominations
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) will hold the 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on October 29, 2024, at 3:30-4:30 pm, in the Prestige Vernon Lodge & Conference Centre.
We invite Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association voting stakeholders to put their name forward or to nominate a qualified candidate to serve as a member of the TOTA Board of Directors for a two-year term, effective October 29, 2024, to the 2026 AGM.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) will hold the 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on October 29, 2024, at 3:30-4:30 pm, in the Prestige Vernon Lodge & Conference Centre in Vernon, home of the Okanagan Indian Band and the unceded, traditional territory of the Syilx People.
On behalf of TOTA Vice-Chair and Governance Committee Chair, Sandra Oldfield, we invite Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association voting stakeholders to put their name forward or to nominate a qualified candidate to serve as a member of the TOTA Board of Directors for a two-year term, effective October 29, 2024, to the 2026 AGM.
Leading up to the AGM, the Board Election will take place as follows:
Deadline to become a Voting Member: August 29
Call for Nominations: August 30 - September 20 (3 weeks)
Electronic Voting: October 1 - 15 (2 weeks)
Election results announced at TOTA AGM and first board meeting: October 29
TOTA is committed to assisting and supporting tourism stakeholders and working closely with Destination BC to put the Thompson Okanagan region and the Province of BC at the forefront of innovation as we maneuver through the tourism industry’s changing landscape.
This year, there are 10 openings. 7 directors are letting their names stand for re-election. 4 directors moving into the second year of their 2-year term.
Directors continuing their term:
Owner & Manager
Blind Bay | Shuswap
Executive Director, Travel Penticton Society
Penticton | South Okanagan
Sandra Oldfield, Vice-Chair
Founder
Elysian Projects & Fortify Conference & Tradeshow
South Okanagan
General Manager, Coast Capri Hotel
Kelowna | Central Okanagan
Current directors standing for re-election:
Economic Development & Communications
Westbank | Central Okanagan
Co-Founder / Director, Business Development
Penticton | South Okanagan
Managing Director
Kamloops | Thompson Valleay
General Manager, Best Western Plus Gateway to the Falls
Clearwater | North Thompson
Executive Director
Osoyoos | South Okanagan
Team Leader, Tourism and Film
Tourism Shuswap / Columbia Shuswap Regional District
Salmon Arm | Shuswap
Executive Director
Destination Silver Star / Silver Star Resort Association
Vernon | North Okanagan
Thank you to the exiting directors:
Michael J. Ballingall, Chair (moving into position of Past Chair)
Senior Vice President
Boundary Country
Business Development Officer
Kamloops | South Thompson
Patricia Leslie, Secretary-Treasurer
National People & Culture Business Partner, for the Estate Wine Group of Andrew Peller properties
Okanagan Valley
Submit a Nomination
We look forward to having candidates representing various communities and sectors, with a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences.
Voting members are eligible to put a name forward as a candidate in the election. Candidates must complete the nomination form which includes signatures from 4 voting stakeholders - see details below.
If you or someone you know is interested to run in the TOTA board election and is on the current Voting Stakeholder List, please:
Collect signatures for the nomination form
Submit the nomination form to TOTABC.org/AGM/election by 11:59 pm, September 20, 2024
For questions, please email BoardLiaison@TOTABC.com.
Register for the TOTA AGM & Summit
October 29 - 30, 2024
Hosted with Tourism Vernon & Destination Silver Star
Job Opportunity: Marketing Manager - Travel Penticton
Travel Penticton is looking for a Marketing Manager for a 12-15 month contract starting October 2024.
Travel Penticton is searching for a full-time Marketing Manager for a 12-15 month contract starting in October 2024.
Please send your resume and cover letter to employment@visitpenticton.com
OUT for Business (OFB) Mentorship Program
OUT For Business (OFB) is Canada's only national mentorship program for 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs, offering support through one-on-one and group mentoring sessions.
The program connects experienced business leaders with the next generation of 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, fostering knowledge exchange and network building.
Applications are now open for the 2024/2025 cohort. This 10-month program encourages participation from individuals with intersecting identities.
For more information about OFB, contact Idara Effiom, Mentorship Manager, at idara.effiom@cglcc.ca.
TOTA’s Corporate Carbon Inventory & Thompson Okanagan’s Destination Carbon Inventory
This Carbon Inventory was done to get a comprehensive assessment of our Destination and Corporate carbon emissions and to set the stage for future coordinated action based on accurate data.
With sustainability as one of our guiding principles, and as a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration, TOTA has committed to net zero by 2050 and 50% reduction by 2030. This Carbon Inventory was done to get a comprehensive assessment of our Destination and Corporate carbon emissions and to set the stage for future coordinated action based on accurate data.
A carbon footprint - or Carbon Inventory - measures the amount of greenhouse gasses released by an activity, such as TOTA's business operations. It's expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e), which shows the impact on global warming.
To calculate TOTA's corporate carbon footprint, the GHG Protocol’s Corporate Standard was used, a widely accepted method that ensures consistency in measuring and comparing greenhouse gas emissions across different organizations globally.
If you run a tourism business and have taken actions to decarbonize your business, please let us know by emailing eve@totabc.com
Help Steer the Future of Transportation in the Thompson Okanagan with Inter-Community Transportation Survey
As the region continues to grow input from the public is crucial in shaping the future of transportation. The survey results will guide planning and advocacy efforts to enhance transportation options between communities, ensuring a connected and sustainable future for the Thompson Okanagan.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and the University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO), with support from the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior, have launched the Inter-Community Transportation Survey. This important initiative invites businesses, residents, and visitors to share their thoughts on transportation needs and preferences within the Thompson Okanagan region.
As the region continues to grow— with StatsBC projecting an increase of 250,000 people by 2046—input from the public is crucial in shaping the future of transportation. The survey results will guide planning and advocacy efforts to enhance transportation options between communities, ensuring a connected and sustainable future for the Thompson Okanagan.
“We encourage all business owners, residents, and visitors in the Thompson Okanagan region to participate in this important survey,” said Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO of TOTA. “Feedback will play a crucial role in shaping the future of transportation, making travel between our communities more efficient, sustainable and accessible for everyone.”
The survey is quick and easy, taking just five minutes to complete. To thank participants for their time, they will be entered into a draw to win one of several incredible prizes, including:
3-night stay at Big White Ski Resort.
2-night stay at Summerland Waterfront Resort.
Predator Ridge Golf Experience.
Read the Release here: www.hatchcomms.ca/post/thompson-okanagan-transportation-survey
New Biosphere Commitment Program Member: Sovereign Lake Nordic Club
Sovereign Lake is inspired by the desire for future generations to experience the wonder and beauty of Vernon's natural landscapes which has led them to a continued lead on environmental sustainability to ensure that the landscape is preserved.
Sovereign Lake Nordic Club is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting active outdoor lifestyles through cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in Silver Star Provincial Park just outside of Vernon, BC.
The sports that Sovereign Lake Nordic Club and its members enjoy are very weather-dependent, and recent warming weather patterns across Canada have created challenges for other Nordic clubs. Due to this, Sovereign Lake has increased its environmentally sustainable operations to the natural setting and ensure that they are doing their part to limit their impact on climate change. Sovereign Lake is also inspired by the desire for future generations to experience the same wonder and beauty. This has led to a continued lead on environmental sustainability to ensure that the landscape is preserved.
Sustainability Initiatives
Sovereign Lake Nordic Club is working towards its sustainability goals and providing transparency by assessing and sharing its organizational resource consumption and emissions. The team at Sovereign Lake has been unable to find similar information about other Nordic clubs, suggesting that they are pioneers in running a Nordic club sustainability. By understanding where the emissions in their organization are highest, they have been able to implement changes, such as switching to battery-operated electric chainsaws to reduce gasoline consumption. Director David Dennier has also found that this sustainability swap came with additional benefits: electric chainsaws are much easier to start in cold, high-altitude conditions prevalent in ski season and are more practical than carrying heavy gasoline supplies when clearing snowshoe trails in the early winter.
When asked about working with TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program, David had this to say: “The Biosphere Committed database is quite straightforward to follow and complete. The most compelling aspect is that there are many simple actions that lead towards achieving the overriding goals, and in many cases we found that we had already been doing many of these actions as part of our business anyway. Compound the ease of use with the great support from TOTA, and you have a system that works well to allow organizations to contribute to social and environmental wellbeing. [Other] businesses will probably be surprised by how many things they are already doing that make them Biosphere Committed.”
Biosphere Commitment Program
The Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program is a sustainability program offered by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association. The focus is to equip tourism businesses in the region with tools and resources to continuously measure, manage, and report sustainability management efforts. The program prepares businesses for a globally recognized certification, to show alignment of business operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Destination Certification.
Organizations can create customized sustainability plans through the Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle platform and access dedicated support from industry experts.
Learn more about TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program
New Biosphere Commitment Program Member: Lakeside Eco-Sports
Lakeside Eco-Sports is Kelowna’s local gateway to nature. They are partnered with the Prestige Beach House in Downtown Kelowna and provide eco-friendly outdoor experiences through Kelowna’s picturesque landscapes.
Join TOTA in welcoming Lakeside Eco-Sports to the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Program.
Lakeside Eco-Sports is Kelowna’s local gateway to nature. They are partnered with the Prestige Beach House in Downtown Kelowna and provide eco-friendly outdoor experiences through Kelowna’s picturesque landscapes.
Sustainability Initiatives
Lakeside Eco-Sports founder Gareth Brown comes from a background in cruises and other global tourism companies. Previously, Brown was able to achieve Gold Certification in the Sustainable Tourism Eco-Certification Program (STEP) which involved the collection of historical data to meet STEP criteria. When he and his wife started Lakeside Eco-Sports, they knew that sustainable tourism would be a key pillar in their business model, and, from the beginning, they sought out the most eco-friendly options for their new business. Their passion was to operate a business that drives towards and beyond net zero, inspiring them to work towards the next step of Biosphere Certification actively.
Lakeside Eco-Sports Bike Fleet at Meadow Vista Honey Wines
When asked about the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Biosphere Program, Gareth had this to say: “Don’t hesitate to sign up! The mentoring process is perfect and will help you identify both what you are already doing and what can be done to further improve your business through the SDG goals and activities. It’s a lot of fun to log into the dashboard and see progress metrics and often I find myself spending time looking at other actions and activities that can help push us towards Biosphere Certification, often inspiring us to make more changes and better decisions.”
As the team at Lakeside Eco-Sports continues to work towards Biosphere Certification, keep an eye on their space beside the Prestige Beach House, as their next sustainable action involves the installation of an 8kw solar system that will allow them to utilize solar power and recharge the batteries of the e-bikes completely off the electrical grid.
Biosphere Commitment Program
The Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Commitment Program is a sustainability program offered by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association. The focus is to equip tourism businesses in the region with tools and resources to continuously measure, manage, and report sustainability management efforts. The program prepares businesses for a globally recognized certification, to show alignment of business operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Thompson Okanagan Biosphere Destination Certification.
Organizations can create customized sustainability plans through the Biosphere Sustainable Lifestyle platform and access dedicated support from industry experts.
Learn more about TOTA’s Biosphere Commitment Program