TOTA 2024 AGM & Announcement of Board Directors

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at the Prestige Vernon Lodge & Conference Centre, on the traditional, unceded, and ancestral territory of the Okanagan Indian Band and the syilx (Okanagan) People.

The meeting reviewed the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, including a presentation of the Audited Financial Statements, Governance Report, and TOTA Activities, as well as the announcement of the Board Election Results.

Board Director Election

We would like to thank all of those in attendance as well as the candidates that let their names stand in this year's election.

Please join us in congratulating the new and returning board of directors:

 

Executive Directors

Chair:
Sandra Oldfield, Elysian Projects (Continuing Term)
South Okanagan | Sector: Other

Vice-Chair:
Kimo Linders, ERTCU Travel Group (Elected for Additional Term)
All sub regions | Sector: Other

Secretary-Treasurer:
Cassandra Zerebeski, Destination Silver Star (Elected for Additional Term) North Okanagan | Sector: DMO

Past Chair:
Michael J. Ballingall, Big White Ski Resort
Boundary Country | Sector: Attraction

Directors

Mandi Carroll, Westbank First Nation (Elected for Additional Term)
Central Okanagan | Sector: Other

Vicki Dalgleish, Sandman Hotel Group (New)
North Thompson, South Thompson, Gold Country, North Okanagan, Central Okanagan, South Okanagan, and Similkameen | Sector: Accommodation

Kelley Glazer, Destination Osoyoos (Elected for Additional Term)
South Okanagan | Sector: DMO

Morgen Matheson, Tourism Shuswap / Columbia Shuswap Regional District (Elected for Additional Term) Shuswap | Sector: DMO

Lumin McCutcheon, Trails to the Boundary Society (New)
Boundary Country | Sector: Other

Lara Pethybridge, Andrew Peller Ltd (New)
Central, South Okanagan | Sector: Wine

Ed Ratuski, YKA Kamloops Airport (Elected for Additional Term)
South Thompson | Sector: Transportation

Colin Ross, Peak Cellars (New)
Central Okanagan | Sector: Wine & Culinary

Monica Seys, Shuswap Marina (Continuing Term)
Shuswap | Sector: Speciality retail

Dale Sivucha, Coast Capri Hotel (Continuing Term)

Central Okanagan | Sector: Accommodation

Thom Tischik, Travel Penticton Society (Continuing Term)
South Okanagan | Sector: DMO

Welcome to all of the new and continuing board members. We thank you for your dedication and commitment to the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry and the region.

Learn more about the directors at TOTABC.org/Board.

Board Director Election Voting Begins October 1, 2024

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.

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More Information

For questions, please email the TOTA Board Liaison at BoardLiaison@TOTABC.com.

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 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:

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Monica Seys

Owner & Manager

Shuswap Marina

Blind Bay | Shuswap

Thom Tischik

Executive Director, Travel Penticton Society

Penticton | South Okanagan

Sandra Oldfield, Vice-Chair

Founder

Elysian Projects & Fortify Conference & Tradeshow

South Okanagan

Dale Sivucha

General Manager, Coast Capri Hotel

Kelowna | Central Okanagan

Current directors standing for re-election:

Mandi Carroll

Economic Development & Communications

Westbank First Nation

Westbank | Central Okanagan

Kimo Linders

Co-Founder / Director, Business Development

ERTCU Travel Group

Penticton | South Okanagan

Ed Ratuski

Managing Director

YKA Kamloops Airport

Kamloops | Thompson Valleay

AJ Bachhal

General Manager, Best Western Plus Gateway to the Falls

Clearwater | North Thompson

Kelley Glazer

Executive Director

Destination Osoyoos

Osoyoos | South Okanagan

Morgen Matheson

Team Leader, Tourism and Film

Tourism Shuswap / Columbia Shuswap Regional District

Salmon Arm | Shuswap

Cassandra Zerebeski

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

Big White Ski Resort

Boundary Country

Michael Eibl

Business Development Officer

Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc

Kamloops | South Thompson

Patricia Leslie, Secretary-Treasurer

National People & Culture Business Partner, for the Estate Wine Group of Andrew Peller properties

Okanagan Valley

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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:

1. Review the process to Become a TOTA Board Director

2. Collect signatures for the nomination form 

3. 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

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TOTA Awarded North America's Responsible Tourism Award 2024

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has been awarded the 2024 North America’s Responsible Tourism Award in the annual World Travel Awards.

The World Travel Awards acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.

TOTA has received the North America’s Award for Responsible Tourism for six consecutive years, in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, 2023, and 2024 (there was no NA competition in 2021) and is honoured to win once again in this category.

As well, TOTA received the World Travel Award for Responsible Tourism in 2018, 2019, and 2020.

Achieving this recognition helps TOTA spread the word on how the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry and our organization are working to offer tourism services in a responsible and sustainable manner.

As the winner of the North America award, TOTA is nominated for the World Travel Award for Responsible Tourism contest in autumn 2024. Voting information will be shared then.

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Background

About the World Travel Awards™

World Travel Awards™ was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. Today, the World Travel Awards™ brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence.

Learn More

About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests of the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. TOTA is supported by and representative of Destination British Columbia and the B.C. Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport.

TOTA is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies.

Learn More

TOTA Golf Tournament Sponsors and Prizes | Join us May 30, 2024 in Kamloops

The 30th TOTA Golf Tournament will be hosted at Bighorn Golf & Country Club in Kamloops on May 30, 2024.

Register for TOTA's 30th Annual Golf Tournament Date: May 30, 2024  Time: 12 PM Event Opens, 1 PM Shotgun Start, 7 PM Dinner & Prizes Venue: Bighorn Golf & Country Club in Kamloops Learn More & Register View Promo Kit Video Message from TOTA CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews: For 30 years, the TOTA Golf Tournament has brought together people of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry for a day of connection and comradery, and, of course, fun! This year, Bighorn Golf & Country Club in Kamloops is playing host to the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association’s 30th Annual Golf Tournament on Thursday, May 30. The event welcomes staff from tourism and hospitality businesses to come together for an afternoon of mingling, networking, golf, and good times. Register as an individual or as a team - all skill sets and levels are welcome. Tourism Kamloops is the partnering sponsor of this year’s tournament and will be hosting a Western themed reception with all sorts of fun, including a mechanical bull ride that pays tribute to the area’s ranching history. TOTA is thrilled to once again have Corporate Sponsors, TELUS, FortisBC, and Air Canada contributing to the event. Each hole will have one of the following sponsors, with a fun activity or tasting: There will be plenty to enjoy throughout the day, such as: Fred Sarkari, renowned Drink Cart driver from many TOTA golf tournaments (and a professional keynote speaker presenter on leadership, sales, branding, and communication) will return once again. To end the day, Mason’s Kitchen + Bar will serve up a delicious dinner sponsored by Tourism Sun Peaks, followed by conversations, laughter, and announcement of tournament award winners. Prizes for the following contests will be announced shortly: Top three teams Longest drive (men and women) Closest to the pin (men and women) Putting contest Most honest team Get the details and register at TOTABC.org/Golf Spread the Word We encourage you to invite your colleagues and other industry contacts from all sectors of the industry and areas of the region. We created a Golf Tournament Promo Kit to make it easy to share the invite with your colleagues and network. View Promo Kit Connect with TOTA: Subscribe to TOTA News Updates

Promote Your Business at the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre - 2024 Season

Thompson Okanagan tourism companies are invited to share adventures and experiences at the Tourism Inspiration Centre on Highway 97C above Peachland, which receives 35,000+ visitors in a regular season.

TOTA operates the Tourism Inspiration Centre, with a team of Tourism Visitor Information Counsellors available to assist visitors en route to or from their Thompson Okanagan destination.

Note: Biosphere Commitment Program members will receive a 25% discount on listed prices.

Promotion Opportunities for the 2024 Season (May-October)

Outdoor Billboard Space: $500+GST / year

Display a poster for 4' x 8' space facing the Tourism Inspiration Centre and parking lot. This includes the opportunity to host an on-site exhibit space for one weekend during the season to meet with and directly promote your experience to visitors; and one social media post on Tourism Inspiration Centre Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business.
Billboard creation and installation not included.

Brochure Racking Space & QR Code Link to Website: $125+GST / year

Display brochures and link to your website in the Tourism Inspiration Centre. Tourism Inspiration Centre ambassadors will familiarize themselves with your company and share it with visitors. Includes one social media post on Tourism Inspiration Centre Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business. Brochure creation not included.

On-Site Exhibit Space: $150+GST / weekend

Host an on-site exhibit space outside the Tourism Inspiration Centre to meet with and directly promote your experience to visitors. Includes one social media post on Tourism Inspiration Centre Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business. Tent/booth not included.

Secure Your Promotion Space

Availability is limited and offered first come, first serve. To secure your promotion space, submit the Promotion Subscription Form or contact Tourism Inspiration Manager, Barbara Bonnough, at Visit@TOTABC.com.

Up Fore Some Fun? Register for TOTA Golf Tournament, May 30, 2024 in Kamloops

Bighorn Golf & Country Club in Kamloops is playing host to the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association’s 30th Annual Golf Tournament on Thursday, May 30.

Yes, there will be great golf on an award-winning course, but this annual tournament is really about bringing people of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry together for a day of connection and comradery, and, of course, fun!

The event welcomes staff from tourism and hospitality businesses to come together for an afternoon of mingling, networking, golf, and fun.

Tourism Kamloops is the partnering sponsor of this year’s tournament and will be hosting a Western themed reception with all sorts of fun, including a mechanical bull ride that pays tribute to the area’s ranching history.

The BC Hospitality Foundation is also supporting the tournament, and will be on the green with a raffle to raise funds for the tremendous work of the foundation.

TOTA is thrilled to once again have Corporate Sponsors, TELUS, FortisBC, and Air Canada along with many others contributing to the event through prizing, hole activations, and other donations.

Throughout the day, enjoy sparkling wine tastings from Monte Creek Winery, sips of cider from Privato Winery & Woodward Cider Co, and a delicious “boozsicle” frozen flavour bomb from Ballistic Arts.

To end the day, Mason’s Kitchen + Bar will be serving up dinner, followed by more networking, fun, and prizes.

Register as an individual or put together a team - all skill sets and levels are welcome.

Get the details and register at TOTABC.org/Golf →

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We hope to see you there and encourage you to invite your colleagues and other industry contacts. This is a great day to connect with individuals from all sectors of the industry and areas of the region, and others from outside the industry are welcome to attend.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Golf@TOTABC.com.

Thank You to the Golf Tournament Sponsors

TOTA Golf Tournament Save the Date & Call for Sponsors

The 30th Annual Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) Golf Tournament will be hosted at Bighorn Golf & Country Club in Kamloops on Thursday, May 30, 2024, with a full day of food, drink, and fun.

Mingle with CEOs, hospitality pros, and a variety of people that form the heartbeat of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry.

The TOTA Golf Tournament is an 18-hole Texas Scramble shotgun format, fun for all participants, no matter your expertise on the course. The afternoon of golf will be followed by a delicious dinner, prizes, and awards!

Registration will open shortly - subscribe to the TOTA News Centre for updates.

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TOTA is currently seeking sponsors. To learn about sponsorship opportunities, email Golf@TOTABC.com.

Vote TOTA for North America's Responsible Tourism Award 2024 | Voting Closes April 7

Voting is open for the World Travel Awards North America categories until midnight April 7, 2024.

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has been nominated for North America's Responsible Tourism Award in the annual World Travel Awards.

We would greatly appreciate it if you could take a few moments to register and vote for TOTA in the category North America's Responsible Tourism Award.

The World Travel Awards acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.

TOTA received the North America Travel Award for Responsible Tourism in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023 (five consecutive years) and is honoured to be nominated once again in this category. 

Achieving this recognition again would help TOTA spread the word on how the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry and our organization are working to offer tourism services in a responsible and sustainable manner. TOTA would then be in the running to compete in the World Travel Award for Responsible Tourism. TOTA received the global award in 2018, 2019, and 2020; and was nominated in 2022 and 2023.

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How to Vote

To support TOTA and spread the word about the Thompson Okanagan region, please take a moment to register and vote for TOTA in the category North America's Responsible Tourism Award.

Votes can be cast by travel professionals, media and tourism consumers, with the nominee gaining the most votes in each category announced as the winner.

Votes cast by industry voters will count as two votes (if you check the Travel Industry box when you register, provide your company details, and submit a minimum of 10 votes).

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Responsible Tourism Initiatives

TOTA's focus on responsible and sustainable tourism has been guided by the Regional Strategy: Embracing Our Potential since 2012, updated in 2020 with a continued focus on:

• Sustainability

• Regional Development projects

• Accessible Tourism

• Indigenous Tourism

• Crisis Management

• Trail Development

• Partnerships

Learn more about these and other initiatives at TOTABC.org.

TOTA 2023 AGM & Board Directors

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at the Penticton Lakeside Resort, on the traditional, unceded, and ancestral territory of the Penticton Indian Band, home of the Syilx (Okanagan) People.

The meeting included an overview for the year ending March 31, 2023, the presentation of the Fiscal Year 2022/23 Audited Financial Statement, Governance Report, TOTA Activities,  and the Board Election Results.

View Minutes →

We would like to thank all of those in attendance as well as the candidates that let their names stand in this year's election.

Please join us in congratulating the new and returning board of directors:

Executive Directors

• Chair: Michael J. Ballingall (Continuing Term)
  Senior Vice President | Big White Ski Resort / Boundary Country

• Vice-Chair: Sandra Oldfield (Elected for Additional Term)
  Elysian Projects & Fortify | Oliver / South Okanagan

• Secretary-Treasurer: Patricia Leslie (Continuing Term)
  National People & Culture Business Partner, for the Estate Wine Group of Andrew Peller properties, including Tinhorn Creek Vineyards | South Okanagan

Directors

• Mandi Carroll (Continuing Term)
  Economic Development & Communications, Westbank First Nation | Westbank / Central Okanagan

• Monica Dickinson (Continuing Term)
  CEO, Tourism Kamloops | Kamloops / South Thompson 

• Michael Eibl (Continuing Term)
  Business Development Officer, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc | Kamloops / South Thompson

• Kelley Glazer (Continuing Term)
  Executive Director, Destination Osoyoos | Osoyoos / South Okanagan

• Kimo Linders (Continuing Term)
  Co-Founder / Director, Business Development, ERTCU Travel Group (En Route Travel Canada) | Penticton / South Okanagan

• Morgen Matheson (Continuing Term)
  Team Leader, Tourism and Film, Tourism Shuswap / Columbia Shuswap Regional District | Salmon Arm / Shuswap

• Ed Ratuski (Continuing Term)
  Managing Director, YKA Kamloops Airport Ltd. | Kamloops / South Thompson

• Monica Seys (Elected for Additional Term)
  Shuswap Marina | Blind Bay / Shuswap

• Dale Sivucha (Elected for Additional Term)
  Coast Capri Hotel | Kelowna / Central Okanagan

• Thom Tischik (Newly Elected)

  Executive Director, Travel Penticton Society | Penticton / South Okanagan

• Cassandra Zerebeski (Continuing Term)
  Executive Director, Destination Silver Star/Silver Star Resort Association | Vernon / North Okanagan

Welcome to all of the new and continuing board members. We thank you for your dedication and commitment to the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry and the region.

Learn more about the directors at TOTABC.org/Board.

Applications Open for B.C. Employer Training Grant (ETG) Until March 2024

Receive up to $300,000 for Skills Training

The B.C. Employer Training Grant is a cost-sharing grant program that provides employers throughout B.C. with skills training funding for their workforces, including prospective new hires.

The grant funding helps employers respond to their changing labour needs and helps develop a skilled workforce with the right mix of skills. In turn, this helps British Columbians access the skills training needed to succeed in today’s labour market, while increasing job security and supporting career advancement.

Employers can apply as often as they need and receive 80% of the cost of training up to $10,000 per employee, with a maximum annual amount per employer of $300,000.

Learn More & Apply →

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Vote TOTA for World's Responsible Tourism Award 2023 by November 17

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has been nominated for the World's Responsible Tourism Award 2023 in the 30th annual World Travel Awards.

The World Travel Awards acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.

TOTA has received the World Travel Award for Responsible Tourism four consecutive years and is honoured to be nominated once again in this category.

Achieving this recognition again would help TOTA spread the word on how the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry and our organization are working to offer tourism services in a responsible and sustainable manner.

Voting is open for the World Travel Awards Caribbean and Americas categories until midnight November 17, 2023.

We would greatly appreciate it if you could take a few moments to register and vote for TOTA in category 277. World's Responsible Tourism Award.

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How It Works

Votes can be cast by travel professionals, media, and tourism consumers, with the nominee gaining the most votes in each category announced as the winner.

Double Your Votes

Votes cast by industry voters will count as two votes. When you register, check the Travel Industry box to provide your company details, then submit a minimum of 10 votes.

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Background

About the World Travel Awards™

World Travel Awards™ was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries. Today, the World Travel Awards™ brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence.

Learn More

About the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests of the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia. TOTA is supported by and representative of Destination British Columbia and the B.C. Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport.

TOTA is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies.

Learn More

National Day for Truth & Reconciliation

September 30 marks the third annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, honouring the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis survivors of the residential school system.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation gives everyone in Canada a shared time to commemorate children who lost their lives at residential schools – and to recognize the hardships of those who survived, as well as the Inter-generational trauma passed on to their families.

For events happening throughout the region in honour National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, visit ThompsonOkanagan.com/indigenous.

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More Information & Resources

Government of Canada Resources

Information on how and why the holiday was created, how the day relates with Orange Shirt Day on the same day, mental health supports, and how people can learn more about Indigenous peoples, culture, and history throughout Canada.  

Orange Shirt Day Website

Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day that honours the children who survived Residential Schools and remembers those who did not. This day relates to the experience of Phyllis Webstad, a Northern Secwépemc (Shuswap) from the Stswecem'c Xgat'tem First Nation, on her first day of school, where she arrived dressed in a new orange shirt, which was taken from her. It is now a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations.

On September 30, Canadians are encouraged to wear orange to raise awareness of the very tragic legacy of residential schools, and to honour the thousands of Survivors.

BC Museums Association (BCMA)

The BC Museums Association urges Canadians from coast-to-coast-to-coast to use September 30 as an opportunity to learn, reflect, make connections, and take action in redressing more than 150 years of injustice.

This webpage discusses the history of September 30/Orange Shirt Day/National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and share resources to help institutions plan for the day.

Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) - 6 Ways to Effect Change

Indigenous Tourism BC shared a list of ways for Canadians to accept personal responsibility and take action on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. ITBC recommends that this day be a time of reflection that Canada is responsible for the deaths and suffering of Indigenous children at residential schools across the nation. This is a time to step forward as a witness to the hard truths, and accept responsibility to learn and change. Reconciliation is not just the responsibility of government–it is a responsibility that belongs to all Canadians.

United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) was adopted by the General Assembly on Thursday, 13 September 2007. Today, the Declaration is the most comprehensive international instrument on the rights of indigenous peoples. It establishes a universal framework of minimum standards for the survival, dignity and well-being of the indigenous peoples of the world and it elaborates on existing human rights standards and fundamental freedoms as they apply to the specific situation of indigenous peoples.

Work Towards Climate Action Goals by Switching to RNG & Enter to Win a Two-night Stay at Garnet Valley Ranch Winery

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Initiative aids Province’s ‘CleanBC Roadmap to 2030’

Through a new partnership with Natural Resources Canada and FortisBC, the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is working to take meaningful and measurable steps to reduce the carbon footprint in the Thompson Okanagan region. The partnership aims to increase awareness on the simplicity of switching to Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) to heat and power homes and tourism businesses - and to inspire businesses and residents to take action.

The partnership has launched a campaign inviting FortisBC customers to make an immediate change to RNG, a more sustainable fuel source than other natural gasses.

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What is RNG and its environmental benefits?

Conventional natural gas and RNG are chemically identical and interchangeable within existing infrastructure, but RNG is created through renewable sources, meaning RNG is a low carbon alternative which will reduce emissions and align users with the CleanBC Roadmap to 2030.

RNG is a purified ‘biogas’ made from commonly found organic materials, plants, animal refuse, and waste. These materials are brought to a dedicated facility, such as the Glenmore Landfill in Kelowna and the Salmon Arm Landfill, where methane is processed and repurposed into the accessible fuel source.

FortisBC is the flagship utility company of British Columbia dealing in natural gas and Renewable Natural Gas.

For more information, visit TOTABC.org/RNG.

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Make the switch to RNG

Switching to FortisBC’s RNG option does not require any new equipment, upgrades, or installations; or upgrades to existing appliances.

In just a few minutes, business and residential FortisBC customers can make an immediate move to reduce harmful climate change emissions and achieve sustainability goals.

The cost of RNG depends on the blend chosen. Customers can choose to switch to 5%, 10%, 25%, 50%, or 100% of their natural gas to RNG.

Simple Steps to Switch to RNG

1. Log in to your account at FortisBC.com.

2. Under the “Manage Services” menu, select “Renewable Natural Gas.”

3. Follow the instructions to enroll.

If you have any questions for your business, feel free to connect with TOTA’s Energy Analyst, Harshit Srivastava, at Energy@TOTABC.com or schedule a meeting for a free Energy Assessment.

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Businesses Leading by Example + Contest

TOTA and FortisBC are pleased to partner with a Summerland-based business that takes their commitment to sustainability seriously: Okanagan Crush Pad and Garnet Valley Ranch Winery are adding Renewable Natural Gas into their energy portfolio, and also encouraging others in the region to take steps towards reducing climate-changing emissions by offering a two-night stay at the brand-new Garnet Valley Ranch Winery to bring awareness to this worthy climate action cause. Learn more and enter to win.

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Funding provided by Natural Resources Canada

Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN) is the department of the Government of Canada responsible for natural resources, energy, minerals and metals, forests, earth sciences, mapping, and remote sensing. NRCAN is committed to improving the quality of life for Canadians by ensuring the country’s abundant natural resources are developed sustainably, competitively, and inclusively. NRCAN develops policies and programs that enhance the contribution of the natural resources sector to the economy and conducts innovative science in facilities across Canada to generate ideas and transfer technologies. Natural Resources Canada has provided TOTA with funding to spread awareness about the benefits, availability, and accessibility of Renewable Natural Gas to regional tourism stakeholders.

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About Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a not-for-profit society that represents a geographic area nestled in the Southern Interior of British Columbia, Canada. The region’s name is derived from two major geographic features: the Thompson River and Okanagan Lake. TOTA plays a support, leadership and growth role in the tourism industry for this region. It aims to stimulate ongoing sustainable growth by embracing the value of tourism through community engagement, innovative leadership in promoting authentic experiences, and inspiring creative collaboration. Key TOTA initiatives include: Biosphere Certified Gold Destination, 7 Generations Pledge, and Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism.

For more information about TOTA visit TOTABC.org, or visit the consumer facing website ThompsonOkanagan.com. Connect socially on Instagram at @Thompson_Okanagan.

TOTA Marketing Team Showcased Thompson Okanagan at Travel Classics West Conference

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association was recently involved with the Travel Classics West Conference that took place in Vancouver, BC on September 14 to 17, 2023. TOTA, in partnership with local CDMOs and businesses, were able to host two pre-conference press trips in the North Thompson and the Central to South Okanagan. These trips were attended by editors and writers providing them with a taste of the world class destinations that call this region home.

Along with the press trips, TOTA had a booth at the conference’s opening marketplace where Chef Ned Bell of Buy BC prepared and served a grilled cheese with apple relish topped with apple vinaigrette, all made with locally sourced Thompson Okanagan ingredients. 50 writers and editors from across North America attended the conference.

The Travel Classics West Conference brings writers and editors together, making it an important event for TOTA to showcase the Thompson Okanagan. The conference is an opportunity for TOTA’s marketing team to entice travel media to experience the region for themselves and share it with their readers.

Tourism Businesses Offering Travel Solutions Around the Hwy 97 Slide

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is commending Thompson Okanagan businesses and those that service the region for offering  solutions for residents and visitors in response to the ongoing Highway 97 road closure between Peachland and Summerland due to the August 28th landslide. These services are being offered  to avoid travel disruptions and provide options for travellers to easily be able to come enjoy autumn in a region that desperately needs tourism support after the recent climate crises.  

Air Travel: 

• Air Canada is waiving fees for those travellers with existing bookings impacted by the landslide to change their arrival destination to Penticton or Kelowna by calling the customer support centre. 

• WestJet is offering flexible changes and cancellation for those with trips at Kelowna International Airport (YLW) for travel between Sept. 7 through 10. For more details visit WestJet.com.

Water Shuttle 

• Luxury Lake Tours is offering a weekday Rock Slide Shuttle Service between Peachland and Summerland with one way and return options. Departing Peachland at 6:30am and 4pm; and Summerland at 7:15am and 4:45pm.  

Shuttle Service: 

• Hoodoo Adventures offers a daily shuttle service between Penticton to Kelowna via the Myra Canyon Trestles for those that need to return to their destination. Departing Penticton at 7am; and departing Kelowna between 10:30am-12:30pm *depending on bookings. 

“During this trying time, we appreciate all the support of partners and businesses in the region as we deal with the slide on Highway 97 north of Summerland,” shares Michael J. Ballingall, TOTA Board Chair. “The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association has been working closely with our airline partners and want to recognize the tremendous support to keep residents and visitors travelling through the entire region.”

The Thompson Okanagan from the peak of Mount Robson down to the semi-arid desert in Osoyoos is open and ready to welcome visitors. Fall is one of the best times to explore the region - the leaves are changing colour, the air is crisp, and the sky is clear with the sun shining bright. Offering the perfect conditions for wine touring, culinary journeys, paired with hiking, biking, fishing in between. Kelowna International Airport (YLW), Penticton Airport (YYF), and the Kamloops Airport (YKA), service the region and offer rental cars, or shuttle service.

Visitors can get trip inspiration at thompsonokanagan.com 

TOTA would like to thank the Ministry of Transportation for their ongoing efforts to stabilize the slide site and build a 150-metre wall to prevent further rock fall. They have indicated that this solution may allow single lane traffic by September 16th. To accommodate the road closure while these upgrades are made, there are four options for motorists to get to their destinations: 

• Two forest service roads between Penticton and Kelowna have been 

  improved to accommodate the influx of motorists. These routes add an 

  additional 60 to 90 minutes to the normal Central Okanagan to South 

  Okanagan commute.

  *Drivers who choose to travel these options should 

  ensure their vehicles are properly equipped for conditions.

• Two alternate highway detours are available through Princeton via Highways 3, 5A and 97C to the West, and through Highway 33 to the East, also resulting in multi-hour commutes.

TOTA would like to acknowledge the many partners who have come together to ensure the safety and seamlessness of travel through the Okanagan.

If you or a business you know is offering an alternative mode of transportation around the road closure, please share by filling out the Good News Form

Travel Order Impact Survey

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and the British Columbia Hotel Association (BCHA) are working together to assess the immediate and long-term impacts on Thompson Okanagan tourism stakeholders from Accommodation Travel Restrictions (Southern Interior Areas) Order by the Province of BC, originally effective August 19 - September 4, 2023.

TOTA and BCHA are conducting a survey to collect details on the impacts of the order on tourism operations to present a summary of the findings to the BC Ministry of Tourism, Art, Culture, and Sport (MTACS) to share with the other ministries.

Survey

The survey will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. Your input is critical to understanding the impact of the order on businesses.

If you represent more than one business, please complete additional surveys for each business so that we have a better understanding of the impact of the order.

To complete the survey, go to https://TOTABC.org/Survey

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Additional Support

We understand this is a challenging time for businesses. The TOTA team would like to help. If you have any questions or concerns to discuss, please email Recovery@TOTABC.com.

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association and Okanagan College Announce Fall Intake for Fully Funded Virtual Hospitality Certificate Program

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and Okanagan College are once again investing in the future of regional tourism and hospitality with the third intake of the fully funded Hospitality Professional Program. The initiative is open to current professionals looking to elevate their career path, and those interested in securing skills and experience to land a job in the region’s vibrant tourism and hospitality sectors.

The Hospitality Professional Program comes with no financial burden, ensuring students can focus on gaining the skills and experience needed to unlock new and elevated roles. The partnership between TOTA and Okanagan College is made possible through federal funding in order to address major industry downturns and the ongoing skilled labour shortage facing tourism and hospitality businesses across the country.

“This is an exceptional opportunity for current and hopeful hospitality professionals to level up their skill set - at no personal expense,” shared Ellen Walker-Matthews, TOTA CEO. “Okanagan College offers timely, relevant, and meaningful education and skills that can quickly elevate a career. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for career change and advancement.”

This comprehensive part-time program has been specially designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the dynamic world of tourism hospitality. The blend of live online learning sessions rapidly covers many topics of the evolving landscape, providing an introduction to marketing, social media, accounting, project management, human resources, and management. This is coupled with self-led online industry certifications including WHMIS; FoodSafe; and Serving It Right.

The first 30 - 34 weeks are spent in a virtual classroom and is followed by 10 weeks of on-site work experience, mentorship, and a job placement at a local business. From guest services to event management and beyond, students will receive top-notch training, networking opportunities and on-the-job training that will open many doors to tourism careers in the Thompson Okanagan.

Participants can choose from one of two part-time live online training schedules:

• Schedule 1: Monday to Friday mornings from October 2023 to May 2024

• Schedule 2: Evenings and Saturdays from October 2023 to June 2024

• Both schedules include work experience & mentorship: May – July 2024

Two information sessions will happen on September 15 at 1pm and September 21 at 7pm.

Interested participants can register at TOTABC.org/training. The deadline for program intake is Friday, September 29, 2023. Students will be interviewed and accepted as applications are received until the program is filled.

Don't miss out on this chance to jumpstart a career in tourism and hospitality. Interested individuals are invited to embark on a journey of growth, excellence, and success. Learn more and apply at TOTABC.org/Training.

*Applicants must be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons legally able to work in Canada. The virtual portion of the program can be taken from anywhere across Canada, but participants must be in, or relocating to, the Thompson Okanagan for the work experience and job placement portion of the program.

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association Ready to Welcome Visitors Back After Travel Order Lifted

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is grateful to Premier Eby and Minister Ma, the Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, for coming to tour many parts of the Thompson Okanagan region yesterday. After speaking with residents and viewing the impacts of recent and continuing wildfires, Minister Ma, together with Premier Eby lifted the order restricting travel to the Thompson Okanagan region.

“We greatly appreciate the efforts of the Premier and Minister Ma to work with us to reopen the region sooner than anticipated, it was an essential step to protect our tourism economy,” shares Ellen Walker-Matthews of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association. “On behalf of the industry, I would like to extend sincere gratitude to the firefighters, first responders, emergency workers, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to help the communities of the Thompson Okanagan impacted by wildfires.”

Walker-Matthews adds, “The Thompson Okanagan is most definitely open and ready to welcome visitors back to the region. The industry looks forward to embracing those that already have trips booked, and invite visitors to plan a trip to one of the many communities that call the Southern Interior home through ThompsonOkanagan.com.”

Booking a trip is going to be one of the best ways to assist with recovery efforts for the tourism economy through the months ahead, and it is essential to have the movement of visitors back in the area. Whether visiting the Thompson, Gold Country, Okanagan, Boundary Country, Similkameen Valley or Shuswap, each has unique experiences to discover in every season that can only be found in this place. Explore the destinations, or connect socially @thompson_okanagan for further trip inspiration.

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About Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association:

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) is a not-for-profit society that represents a geographic area nestled in the Southern Interior of British Columbia, Canada. The region’s name is derived from two major geographic features: the Thompson River and Okanagan Lake. TOTA plays a support, leadership and growth role in the tourism industry for this region. It aims to stimulate ongoing sustainable growth by embracing the value of tourism through community engagement, innovative leadership in promoting authentic experiences, and inspiring creative collaboration. Key TOTA initiatives include; Biosphere Certified Gold Destination, 7 Generations Pledge, and Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism.

For more information about TOTA visit TOTABC.org, or visit the trip planning website ThompsonOkanagan.com.

Media Contact:

Krista Lochhead

krista@hatchhos.com

778.227.2396

Hatch Hospitality Inc. dba hatchcomms.ca

Travel Restrictions Order Lifted for Most of Thompson Okanagan

Premier Eby and Minister Ma, the Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, toured many parts of the Thompson Okanagan region to speak with residents and view the impacts of recent and continuing wildfires. 

In a press conference late yesterday afternoon, Minister Ma, together with Premier Eby lifted the order restricting travel to the Thompson Okanagan region, except for the community of West Kelowna, where there are still many residents out of their homes and much work ahead. Non-essential travel to West Kelowna continues to be prohibited for the purpose of staying in temporary accommodation, including hotels, motels, inns, bed and breakfasts, hostels, RV parks, and campgrounds, to ensure accommodations are available for those who have been evacuated and are still unable to return home.

We appreciate the efforts of the Premier and Minister Ma to work with industry and communities to reopen the region sooner than anticipated. We also extend our sincere gratitude to the firefighters, first responders, emergency workers, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to help the communities of the Thompson Okanagan impacted by wildfires. Our hearts go out to all those affected by these wildfires throughout the region.

Additionally, we want to acknowledge the accommodation providers in the Thompson Okanagan region who have been diligently reporting their availability to provide safe shelter for evacuees and emergency responders.

Although the non-essential travel restriction is now largely lifted, we are also acutely aware of the effect this restriction has had and continues to have on tourism businesses in the region. Besides the obvious financial impacts of losing visitors during the last few weeks of the peak tourism season, operators face uncertainty regarding labour, cancellation of significant events and product loss.

Lifting the order is an important first step in recovery, and while our industry remains steadfast in our commitment to support our communities and the evacuees, TOTA, along with the BC Hotel Association (BCHA), continues to work closely with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, and the Government of British Columbia to advocate for financial supports necessary to ensure full recovery. 

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We Want to Hear From You

To ensure we can bring concerns and challenges the industry faces to the government, we encourage you to share your insights and feedback on how the wildfires and travel restrictions have impacted your business through TOTA's Voice Your Concerns form.