HONOURING CULTURE BC Elders Gathering Celebrates Past and Future Generations

Inflight Magazine for Pacific Coastal Airlines

SNOW TIME! BC alpine resorts gear up for winter HONOURING CULTURE BC Elders Gathering celebrates past and future generations

October/November 2015 | Volume 9 | Number 4 NEW PRICE

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8 honouring culTure Annual BC Elders Gathering unfolds in Saanich.

10 Economics of tourism Non-traditional benefits from tourism in Lower Columbia. 12 sNow time! Vancouver’s Soar’s annual round-up of BC alpine resorts. 16 Bean around the world best kept secret Vancouver coffee company has “bean” happy for over 25 years.

19 Northern British Columbia has it all 22 Q&A Dave Maedel, Executive Director, BC Wildfire Service.

Departments 4 uP Front President’s message; Meet a PCA employee.

7 BC Roundup News from around the province.

20 Datebook Community events from around B.C.

Cover: Annual BC Elders Gathering Photo: Steve Heywood.

Editor Graphic Design Susan Lundy Lily Chan [email protected] Michelle Gjerde Group Publisher Published by Penny Sakamoto Black Press [email protected] 818 Broughton Street Victoria, BC V8W 1E4 The Granville Island Hotel Associate Group Publisher www.blackpress.ca Oliver Sommer Phone 250-480-3204 [email protected] Fax 250-386-2624 1253 Johnston Street, Vancouver BC Advertising Anne Marie Rindt Toll Free: 1-800-663-1840 Patty Doering SOAR magazine is published six times per year and is distrib- or 604-683-7373 uted on all Pacific Coastal Airlines flights. The points of view or opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or Pacific Coastal WWW.GRANVILLEISLANDHOTEL.COM Airlines. The contents of SOAR magazine are protected by copyright, including the designed advertising. Reproduction is prohibited without written consent of the publisher.

October/November 2015 PACIFIC COASTAL AIRLINES 3 President’s Message New route is part of a long-term plan to provide convenient, affordable options I am pleased to announce the addition Victoria to Prince George which began in of another new route to Pacific Coastal’s January of this year. network of more than 65 destinations in We believe that the residents of both British Columbia. southern Vancouver Island and the Okanagan Effective Tuesday, October 27, 2015, the communities will enjoy the benefits of new Victoria (YYJ) to Kelowna (YLW) flights this quick, convenient, and affordable new will operate seven days a week using our Saab transportation option. 340 aircraft. Our company is now the sixth largest The turbo prop Saab 340A and 340B’s airline operating at Vancouver International provide spacious seating for 30 to 34 Airport (YVR) based on outbound seats, and passengers, bathroom facilities, a flight the third largest in takeoffs and landings. attendant and onboard service. That’s quite an achievement for an airline There will be two flights daily Monday that had its humble beginnings in the coastal through Friday, and one flight each day on community of Bella Coola nearly 40 ºyears Saturday and Sunday. ago. We’re proud of our unique heritage and Pricing for the one hour and five minute will continue to seek out new opportunities flight will be competitive. to connect people and communities across The introduction of this new route is part British Columbia. of a much larger strategic development plan I hope to see you on one of our flights soon. that began in 2014 with the launch of our Cranbrook to Kelowna connector, and follows on the heels of our non-stop service between

OUR CONTRIBUTORS Meet a Employee Pacific Coastal Susan Lundy is an award- Time with Pacific Coastal: I’ve actually winning freelance writer, worked for Pacific Coastal for over three author and magazine editor, years, on and off. I started as a ramp agent who lives on BC’s west coast. in 2011, drove the shuttle bus for a summer, and had a two-year stint in the dispatch office before finishing my commercial pilot’s licence. I worked a year with another airline Sean McIntyre is a and Pacific Coastal welcomed me back as a journalist from Montreal. first officer earlier this year. He lives in the Gulf islands,

where he enjoys writing Department Mission or Vision: To deliver about people and places that quality travel services to our customers make BC a special place. with a focus on safety and efficiency. What do you like best about your job? The people I’ve met while working Susan Quinn is a at Pacific Coastal, the scenery of BC, and veteran Vancouver Island doing a job I’ve been passionate about since journalist with more than I was a kid in Air Cadets. two decades of experience Can you tell us about your family? I and a passion for flying. actually met my wife, Jessica, while Name: working at Pacific Coastal; she used to Jen Blyth is a is an award-winning writer, Elijah Schultz work in the office. No kids, but we have a photographer and editor, Position: dog named Pika. First Officer, whose stories have appeared Saab 340 Where did you grow up? Kamloops, BC in BC Business, BC Home, Based in: What do you enjoy outside of the WestWorld and Yes Richmond, BC job? Travelling, beach volleyball, soccer, Magazine. skiing/snowboarding, spending time with friends and family.

4 Soar October/November 2015 Look who keeps the people and businesses of BC connected.

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Pacific Coastal Airline’s Saab 340B will be featured on the airline’s newly announced Victoria-Kelowna direct link. BOOK YOUR STAY TODAY fourpointskelownaairport.com Pacific Coastal Airlines or call 1-855-900-5505 Complimentary Airport Shuttle that also announces new non-stop goes to UBCO and Okanagan Golf Club • 3400 sq ft ballroom • 2 boardrooms service between Victoria • 120 guestrooms & Suites • 24 hr fitness center, pool & waterslide Four Points by Sheraton Kelowna Airport and Kelowna 5505 Airport Way, Kelowna, BC V1V 3C3 T 250 807 2000 E [email protected] www.fourpointskelownaairport.com Pacific Coastal Airlines expects to see a mix of business and leisure travellers onboard, when it launches its new direct link between Victoria and Kelowna. With flights between the two BC cities beginning October 27, the new scheduled service is just the latest in a series of route announcements over the past year. “We believe there is significant market opportunity for this new route and that these new non-stop flights will be well received in both communities and the surrounding areas,” says Spencer Smith, PCA’s Vice President of Commercial Services. The new Victoria (YYJ) to Kelowna (YLW) flights will operate seven days a week using Saab 340 aircraft. The Saab 340A and 340B offer stand-up cabins, comfortable seating for 30 to 34 passengers, a flight attendant, on-board service and washroom. There will be two flights a day Monday through Friday and one daily flight on Saturday and Sunday. Competitive pricing will be in place for the one hour and five minute flight. The new route comes after Pacific Coastal began non-stop service between Victoria and Prince George in January of this year. Pacific Coastal Airlines has been providing regularly scheduled, charter and cargo services in BC for almost 40 years. Started in Bella Coola by one-time truck logger Daryl Smith, it is now the sixth-largest airline operating at YVR (based on outbound seats), and third largest in takeoffs and landings. Pacific Coastal Airlines’ seaplane base operates out of Port Hardy on Vancouver Island and from there provides service to a large number of destinations along the coast. For more information visit www. pacificcoastal.com Operating from its administrative centre at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) South Terminal, Pacific Coastal employs approximately 300 people across 15 bases in BC. Passengers can make reservations on the airline’s website at www. pacificcoastal.com, by phoning the call centre number at 1.800.663.2872, or through a local travel agency.

6 Soar October/November 2015 bC roundup Funding help being realized, following the opening of the apartment complex. Sea to Sky Marine Trail. The 40-kilometre There was a chance that the complex would for North Island marine trail spans Howe Sound from be privately purchased and redeveloped, PORT ALICE — Looking for ways to Horseshoe Bay to Squamish to Gibsons, and likely impacting tenants and resulting in the diversify the economy is a top priority for includes campsites in Porteau Cove, Halkett loss of much-needed affordable housing in Port Alice and the North Island Region, so Bay and Plumper Cove provincial parks along the community. $30,000 from the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism with six new provincial marine recreation sites. The provincial government’s purchase and Skills Training and Responsible for The marine trail connects to the of the Washington Apartments means Labour is a welcome influx of cash — 180-kilometre Sea to Sky Trail, which will that the complex’s current rental rates will especially when the Island Coastal Economic eventually run from Squamish to D’Arcy, and remain the same and a significant amount Trust (ICET) is matching that investment connect Howe Sound to the Lower Mainland. of affordable housing will be preserved in with an additional $30,000. The marine trail, which also links to Courtenay. The $60,000 in total funding will support the Trans Canada Trail, was the result of a The complex, located at 1027, 1029 and the creation of an economic development and partnership among the Province, Squamish 1033 Ryan Road, provides 120 residential implementation strategy for Port Alice and Nation, the Squamish-Lillooet and Sunshine rental apartments and is currently fully the Regional District of Mount Waddington Coast regional districts, Town of Gibsons, the occupied. After learning of the purchase, (North Island region). They will work with Bowen Island Municipality, the Districts of many tenants have expressed their relief to North Island communities to prioritize Squamish and West Vancouver and the BC staff that the complex that their rental rates regional economic initiatives. Marine Trail Networks Association. and tenancy agreements will remain in place. Port Alice and the North Island are in the The Trans Canada Trail is one of the midst of challenging times with the recent world’s longest networks of multi-use Top marks announcement that a major employer in recreational trails. It will eventually cover For top wine the area, Neucel Specialty Cellulose, is on nearly 24,000 kilometres from the Atlantic to OSOYOOS — North America’s first temporary curtailment until 2016. the Pacific to the Arctic oceans. aboriginal owned and operated winery, Port Alice and region has an economic Nk’Mip Cellars, has placed in the Top 10 history tied to a small number of industries, Affordable housing Wineries of the Year category for the fourth which mainly includes the forestry sector. maintained consecutive year at the InterVin International Plans are to enhance economic development COMOX VALLEY — The provincial Wine Awards competition. by attracting investment and supporting new government is preserving affordable housing Ranking 6th overall, Nk’Mip also brought and existing businesses. in Courtenay through the purchase of the home double gold awards for their top- Preserving a rare Washington Apartments, the city’s largest scoring wines. rainforest PRINCE GEORGE — The province is taking action to preserve the unique GATSBY MANSION ecosystems of the Ancient Forest, home to some of the oldest trees in the country, and is SPECIAL OFFER calling for public input into the planning The Province signed an agreement with the StayGATSBY 2 nights MANSION at $139 Lheidli T’enneh First Nation and the Caledonia SPECIAL OFFER Ramblers Hiking Society, a community-based each night and receive conservation organization. The partners are the third night FREE! working together to ensure that the Ancient • ComplimentaryStay 2 nights breakfast at and $139 free parking. Forest is preserved and, in the long-term, Valideach from October night 15 –and December receive 31, 2015 Valid from October 15 – December 31, 2015 designated as an official protected area. At the (Taxes and gratuities not included) (Taxes and gratuities not included) same time, government is consulting with the the third night FREE! 309 BELLEVILLE STREET, LOCATED IN THE HEART OF LOCATED IN THE HEART OF public to help inform critical decisions like the VICTORIA,309 BELLEVILLE BC 250-381-3456 STREET, VICTORIA’S• Complimentary INNER breakfast HARBOUR and free parking. VICTORIA’S INNER HARBOUR forest boundaries and the legal designation of VICTORIA, BC 250-381-3456 the protected area. Ancient Forest covers more than 10,000 STAY AWHILE PACKAGE hectares of largely unlogged temperate STAY AWHILE PACKAGE rainforest and contains stands of giant red Stay 2 nights at $115 each cedars, some more than 1,000 years old, as nightStay and 2 nights receive at $115 the each well as rare plants and lichens. The forest called Chun toh whud u jud by the Lheidli thirdnight night and FREE!receive the Valid from October 15 – December 31, 2015 (Taxes and gratuities not included) T’enneh — is 120 kilometres east of Prince PACKAGEthird INCLUDED:night FREE! George next to Slim Creek Provincial Park. • GuestroomPACKAGE in Huntingdon INCLUDED: Manor. CALL 250-381-3456 • Complimentary• Guestroom deluxe in Huntingdon continental breakfast Manor. for two each morningOR 1-800-663-7557 of stay. 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October/November 2015 PACIFIC COASTAL AIRLINES 7 honouring CULTURE Elders Gathering celebrates past and future generations

By Jennifer Blyth included name-giving and totem pole raising work with and assist the Elders in achieving ceremonies, revival of the Bumble Bee dance whatever it is they wish to achieve through lders from First Nations across — not publicly demonstrated for more than the gathering. Although our primary BC came together on the Saanich 100 years — a traditional wedding and many commitment is to the Elders through the EPeninsula, just outside Victoria this cultural presentations. Annual BC Elders Gathering, our indirect summer in an annual celebration of history, The event also brings cultures together. motive is to work with the Elders to assist the culture and sharing between generations. Boyes was pleased to note that of the youth and all future generations,” Boyes says. Described as “honouring our ancestors 600 volunteers working at this year’s For that, the gathering encourages the through our Elders and recognizing our gathering, about half were non-native, many sharing of the Elders’ knowledge and future through our youth,” the 39th Annual approaching their senior years. And in the experience. BC Elders Gathering welcomed 4,000 opening ceremony, “it was great to see so “It is so important that they share attendees and more than 600 volunteers many native and non-native leaders walk in the stories they have in their hearts and to the Panorama Recreation Centre and the grand entry, followed by our wonderful minds with memories going back through surrounding community July 7 to 9. team of sponsor partners.” experiences they gained from early Hosted this year by the Tsawout First A primary aim of the Annual BC Elders childhood to the stories told to them by Nation and WSANEC Elders, the annual Gathering Society is for the event to be their ancestors through their parents and gathering has grown every year since first hosted in a different BC First Nation grandparents who have long since passed hosted by the Coqualeetza Elders more community each year, allowing the Elders to over,” Boyes says. than 39 years ago. That first year, just 60 share their traditions and teachings. “The strength and determination the Elders came together to socialize, celebrate “Next year’s gathering in Williams Lake Elders provide to each other through sharing past accomplishments, share stories and is going to be a game-changer, setting a new at the gathering is so helpful in the healing knowledge and regenerate their emotional standard for Annual BC Elders Gatherings,” process that needs to take place as a result of well-being for future work. Boyes says. the tremendous hardship put on them and The dream was bigger, however. Instrumental in this continuing legacy their families during the residential school “The gathering continues to improve is the help of sustaining sponsor partners, period. The Elders understand the work every year,” says Brad Boyes, director, who support the work of the hosting Band that needs to be done for the safety, security, sponsorship chair, Annual BC Elders Councils and Elders, along with the support health and well-being of their communities Gathering Society. of the Elders Gathering Society, whose and all future generations. The Elders The importance to the Elders of members are all volunteers. Gathering shows everyone who attends that community and coming together for the “It is an honour for all our Annual BC by supporting each other and all people, benefit of future generations cannot be Elders Gathering Society board of directors, Mother Earth and all that she provides, the overstated, he says. under the advice, guidance and leadership future through respect and understanding Cultural activities at gatherings have of our Elders, to have the opportunity to will be a better place for all of us.”

8 Soar October/November 2015 The 39th Annual BC Elders Gathering, held this summer on the Saanich Peninsula near Victoria, was a multi-generational event. It was hosted this year by the Tsawout First Nation and WSANEC Elders.

Coming up: 40th Annual BC Elders Your Premier Gathering LIKELY Wilderness Destination The 40th Elders Gathering comes to Home of the really Williams Lake, July 12-14, with a pre- Gathering Wild West Show July 11. BIG Trout. Hosted by the Tl’etinqox Government, We have little ones too. Tsilhqot’in (the people of the river) National Government with support from the Carrier, Northern Secwepemc and Nuxalk Nations, the gathering will be held at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex and Williams Pristine wilderness, on the original Lake Stampede Grounds. Gold Rush Trail. Likely is rich in Gold Rush history. Quesnel Forks Chinese Ghost town, Wildlife viewing, Grizzly Bears, Bird Pyna-tee-ah Fly Fishing watching, 250 species and shing for all ages and abilities. Guided trips available

One Thousand Dollar First Prize Fish Derby Annually Take the alternative back road to Wells and Barkerville from June to October.

For more Info go to: www.likely-bc.ca Cariboo Chilcotin Coast or contact: 250.790.2458 See LI READ for A Land Without Limits Box 29, Likely, BC V0L 1N0 Salt Spring Island To Prince George Bowron Lake Provincial Wells Park and Southern Cottonwood 26 Cariboo Mountains This is perhaps the oldest Quesnel Barkerville Provincial Gulf Islands structure in the town site and is 这或许算是福士镇最古 Park commonly referred to as the 老的建筑了，通常被称 The Back Road Keithley Tong House. A ‘Tong’ was a 为堂馆。“致公堂”类 Creek Chinese fraternal organization Quesnel Real Estate! 似于中国人的兄弟会， Forks that saw to the needs of new arrivals, the community’s 宗旨在于扶持新人，社 Likely festivals, fundraisers, the care of 区节庆，筹款，扶贫救 elderly and destitute as well as McLeese Lake 弱，并且负责把矿工的 Big Lake the shipment of a miner’s The Tong House as it 致公堂堂馆，摄于1930年代。 appeared in the 1930’s. 骨灰及遗物运回中国。 Horse y remains back to China. 97 福士镇致公堂分社成立于年，到 The Chee Kung Tong Society formed a branch 1882 年，已经发展到超过一百名会员。 Williams here in 1882 and until 1910 had over a hundred 1910 150 Mile members. Lake House 20 Li Read To Vancouver Pantone Colours: 1205C Bu, 342C Green, 1797C Red, 1.250.537.7647 7408C Goldenrod, 283C Blue [email protected]

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October/November 2015 PACIFIC COASTAL AIRLINES 9 TRAIL Lower Columbia benefits from tourism in a non- traditional way

By JENNIFER BLYTH

While the economy in BC’s Lower Columbia region continues to be driven by longstanding staples like the metallurgical sector — led by Teck — and health services, including the regional hospital in Trail, more and more, tourism is playing a role. And it’s not only in the traditional sense, where dollars are spent by visitors on accommodations, services and activities like skiing, fishing and mountain biking. The economicS “Seventy-five per cent of people who move here are visitors first,” says Terry Van Horn, economic development coordinator for the Lower Columbia Initiative Corporation. It’s a statistic no doubt helped by the of region’s growing tourism market, and one When in

ITALIANLove FOOD? “Come Twirl with us” Italian family style dining featuring our traditional Colander Special Pasta and More Award Winning Shopping at Waneta Plaza? Boutique Try the Colander Express Hotel River Belle 1001 Rossland Avenue, Trail and District banquet facility Trail, BC V1R 3N7 [email protected] Chamber of Commerce www.bestwesterntrail.com An Advocate & Trusted Resource 250-368-3355 For reservations 1-800-465-6682 The Ask for the Paci c Coastal Rate Teck Interpretive Centre Tours run daily at 10 am, Mon-Fri. Reservations recommended (must be 12 or older to participate)

1-800-667-9544 For bookings call Shopping at glenwoodmotel.com Lunch: 11:30am - 2pm Weekdays TRAIL CHAMBER Dinner: 4:30 - 8:30pm Daily 2769 Glenwood Drive, 250-368-3144 Trail, BC V1R 2S6 200-1199 Bay Ave. For Reservations 250-364-1816 [email protected] Downtown Trail 1475 Cedar Avenue, Trail, BC LCIC is focusing on in its diverse economic living is significantly less, Van Horn notes. initiatives. And thanks to continued investment by The corporation’s annual Community Teck, for example — not to mention $1.5 Economic Development Forum in June was million in capital projects the hospital has dedicated to “The Economics of Tourism” planned for the coming year and a variety of and there’s an emphasis on developing that community-based projects, like the City of relationship with visitors. Trail’s $6.5 million library and museum — the “When visitors are coming to our region, region enjoys considerable stability. we make sure we’re making that extra effort “It is very resource based, but in general we to make their visit memorable,” Van Horn don’t see those highs and lows like you see in says. some other communities,” Van Horn says. Created in 2010, the Lower Columbia The community also enjoys a highly skilled Initiative is a partnership between the City of workforce, plus, “we have a really strong Rossland, City of Trail, Village of Warfield, entrepreneurial spirit here as well.” Village of Montrose, Village of Fruitvale and And then there’s the accessibility, electoral areas A & B of the Regional District supporting both the livability of the region of Kootenay Boundary. It works to develop a and its potential for business growth. creative, dynamic and competitive business In addition to being just an hour’s flight environment that fosters economic growth in A highly skilled workforce is a draw for the Lower from Vancouver or Calgary, “we have really Columbia region. the region. easy access to Spokane and Kelowna ... we’re Once visitors make their way to the three hours from anything, really.” community, they have a chance to experience opportunities to live and work. all the community has to offer — and “We all have lifestyle, we all have beautiful To Get There experience its potential. weather, so how do we stand out?” Van Horn The question for the LCIC is how to asks. PacificCoastal Airlines runs several showcase the Lower Columbia region Two key components of the answer are flights daily between Vancouver affordability and economic stability. Airport’s South Terminal and Trail. compared to others that also boast an Visit www.pacificcoastal.com for more appealing climate, breathtaking scenery, Compared to communities in the Lower details. numerous outdoor amenities and Mainland or even the Okanagan, the cost of skiing SNOW TIME!

Above, champagne powder and (following Award-winning BC alpine resorts get page) practising turns on the slopes at Big “out of the box” for upcoming season White in Kelowna.

BY SUSAN QUINN

ith weather pundits predicting has garnered numerous accolades, awards expansion or new technology, the other that a warm El Niño is on the way and international distinctions. would soon follow with something different. —following on the heels of last The resort boasts 8,171 acres of terrain In March 1997, the company that W owned Whistler, Whistler Mountain year’s challenging snow season — ski resorts spread across two mountains, a mile-high across British Columbia are thinking outside vertical, peak-to-peak gondola, heli-skiing, Ski Corporation, merged with Intrawest the box when it comes to the 2015-16 season. reliably abundant snowfall and a vibrant Corporation, which owned Blackcomb, and Resorts of the Canadian Rockies have slope-side village with 200 shops, award- created one of the largest mountain resort sourced new partnerships and introduced a new winning restaurants and legendary nightlife. companies in the world. winter sport. Mount Washington Alpine Resort Whistler’s beginnings started out with trout FMI: whistlerblackcomb.com has created an industry first in the “100-Day fishing at Alta Lake, on what was then known Grouse Mountain as London Mountain. Re-named Whistler Winter Assurance.” And Whistler Blackcomb is Look to Vancouver’s North Shore at night after the distinctive sound of a resident celebrating 50 years of going above and beyond and the glowing lights point to the Peak species of marmot, the resort switched focus for its customers. Here’s a round-up of what to of Vancouver, Grouse Mountain Resort — to winter recreation and opened to the public expect this year: home of the famed Grouse Grind hike in in February 1966. the summer and breathtaking gondola rides LOWER MAINLAND When neighbouring Blackcomb Mountain year-round. opened for business on Dec. 6, 1980, a Whistler Blackcomb The resort started preparing for winter healthy rivalry between the two ski resorts For 50 years, Whistler Blackcomb has before summer was even wrapped up: new began. Whenever one resort announced offered a mountain experience so unique it snowmaking technology was installed on The W C H

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12 Soar October/November 2015 Peak and The Cut for top-to-bottom coverage. Provincial Park to the west and the deep blue of snowshoe trails and 1,700 acres of alpine The mountain operations team spent part waters of Georgia Strait to the east, the seaside terrain. With the addition of its Easy Acres of the summer cutting brush to smooth out resort transforms into a magical Winter learning area in 2012, Mount Washington runs, which translates into more open terrain Wonderland over the Christmas period. became one of the best places to learn to ski with less snow, earlier in the winter. “It’s the best place to enjoy a white and ride in North America. New LED lighting was installed on Blazes, Christmas on Vancouver Island,” says Through its 100-Day Winter Assurance, meaning black diamond skiing will be Director of Operations Don Sharpe. “We have season pass holders are assured that if the available at night. Work was also planned in two full weeks of exciting events, special Snow resort does not get 100 snow days in a season, the fall of 2015 for a new Sliding Zone. School camps and accommodation packages a credit can be applied toward the purchase of For full details of all the facilities available from December 19 to January 3.” the next year’s season pass. at Grouse Mountain, visit their website Mount Washington has received an average Located 25 km west of the Comox Valley, online. FMI: grousemountain.com accumulation of over 38 feet in the last 10 50 km south of Campbell River and 100 km years and is still home to one of the deepest north of Nanaimo, Mount Washington is Mount Seymour snow bases in the world. The resort boasts 55 easily accessible via the new Inland Island Mount Seymour markets itself as kilometres of world-class nordic trails, 25 km Highway. The locally owned mountain has Vancouver’s starting gate to recreation. The Wood family has owned the resort since 1984. The resort offers 200 acres of downhill skiing and snowboarding terrain, five lifts including a high-speed quad, and acres of off-piste skiing. Mount Seymour, like Mount Washington on Vancouver Island, is participating in reciprocal agreements with several other British Columbian resorts for 2015-16. FMI: mountseymour.com VANCOUVER ISLAND Your Lakeside Resort in the City! TOLLYour FREE 1.800.565.1144 Lakeside4700 N.Resort ISLAND HWY in(19A) Yourthe Lakeside City! Resort in the City! PHONE 250.758.1144 NANAIMO B.C. V9T 1W6 TOLLYour FREE Lakeside 1.800.565.1144 Resort4700 N. in ISLAND the HWY City! (19A) Mount Washington TOLL FREE 1.800.565.1144 4700 N. ISLANDTOLLPHONE FREE 250.758.1144 HWY 1.800.565.1144 (19A) 4700NANAIMO N. ISLAND B.C. V9T HWY 1W6 (19A) PHONE 250.758.1144 NANAIMO B.C. V9T 1W6 Mount Washington Alpine Resort is calling PHONE 250.758.1144 NANAIMO B.C. V9T 1W6 on snow sport lovers to come and enjoy a WWW.INNONLONGLAKE.COM FOLLOW US ON WWW.INNONLONGLAKE.COM FOLLOW US ON white Christmas. Bordered by Strathcona WWW.INNONLONGLAKE.COM FOLLOW US ON

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October/November 2015 PACIFIC COASTAL AIRLINES 13 Continued from page 13 been in business since 1979 and employs over lessons on the mountain. FMI: bigwhite.com and won accolades from major press outlets, 300 staff each season. including the New York Times. TRAIL FMI: redresort.com KELOWNA Red Mountain CRANBROOK Big White Off-season leadership changes at Red “Big White is the perfect destination Mountain near Rossland have positioned this Fat biking for families over the winter holidays,” says resort for continued growth. Fat biking is taking off as a new sport with Michael J. Ballingall, senior vice president of Don Thompson became president of Red Resorts of the Canadian Rockies, comprising Big White Ski Resort. “We ensure there’s a Mountain Ventures, parent company to Red Fernie and Kimberley alpine resorts and plethora of activities to suit the taste of each Mountain Resort, last spring. He will oversee Kicking Horse Mountain Resort in BC and member of the family, and make it especially resort operations, project and property three more elsewhere in Canada. easy for parents.” management. Ski industry veteran Matt Monster tires and low gearing mean biking Canada’s largest ski-in, ski-out resort is also Henry was named director of sales in May, a in snow is easy for both first-timers and one of the country’s most family-friendly winter newly created position. seasoned cyclists. All three resorts are offering destinations. The resort has received top honours “In 2002, I came to Rossland to check out a new fat biking winter riding experience. for offering a variety of winter-themed fun for the this mysterious ski hill I’d heard so much whole family. TripAdvisor awarded Big White about,” Red Mountain Ventures CEO Howard KIMBERLEY AND FERNIE with a Certificate of Excellence for 2015, while Katkov said in announcing the changes. “Don alpine resorts Ski Canada Magazine named it the No. 1 ski Thompson was the first guy I met. We are now Kimberley Alpine Resort will have 50 resort in Canada for “Best Powder” in 2015. approaching our 13th year together as partners kilometres of designated and groomed trails Snow bunnies and hill runners can try out the in Red Mountain. I can’t be more proud and for fat bikers of various skill levels. Fat bike resort’s 118 ski trails and 15 ski lifts. Premiering confident that Don will continue his great rentals and tours/ lessons with guides will be in December 2015 is the new Black Forest Day work in this well-deserved new position.” available at all three resorts. Lodge, offering a 150-seat lunchroom with Despite below-average snowfall in 2014- Both Fernie Alpine Resort and Kimberley views of the Monashee Mountains. 15 and a challenging season for resorts Alpine Resort will start the 2015-16 season Other family-oriented touches at Big throughout the west, Red Mountain has with online recognition as top performing ski White include grocery delivery service and been on a roll. The resort set new occupancy and snowboard resorts. door-to-ski shuttle service, as well as a Flaik records, developed the Legacy Training TripAdvisor awarded the resorts certificates GPS system to keep track of children taking Centre, opened a new mountain on Grey of excellence in May. The award celebrates excellence in hospitality. Let us show you how to increase your useable space... Resorts of the Canadian Rockies has looked to the other side of the earth for partnerships, joining forces with Treble Cone Ski Resort in Wanaka, New Zealand. All Fernie Alpine Resort, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort and Kimberley Alpine Resort season pass holders will receive 50 per cent off single and multi- CALL US TODAY! day tickets at the New Zealand resort during 250-744-2195 OR the 2015 and 2016 Southern Hemisphere 1-800-670-5505 season (their winter is opposite Canada’s). “We’re excited to partner with RCR to 3075 Douglas St., Victoria align Treble Cone with the reputation, www.Murphybeds-Victoria.com terrain, snow and overall experience offered by mountains including Kicking Horse and Vancouver Island’s Only Authorized Murphy Bed Dealers Fernie, and to assist our passionate local skiers and riders and also RCR’s to enjoy some of the best available off-season skiing,” said Nick Noble, Treble Cone’s marketing manager. FMI: skircr.com WILLIAMS LAKE Mount Timothy “Unhurried, and unworried” is the mantra at Mount Timothy Ski Area, a family-oriented ski resort located in the heart of BC’s Cariboo region. Affordable skiing, diverse terrain and An Independent Seniors Living Community a friendly, family atmosphere are key features at this resort, an hour south of Williams Lake. Baptist Housing " Since 1964 " Enhanced Seniors Living Mount Timothy features a variety of terrain 2000 Goldsmith Street 250 595 6257 www.shannonoaks.com over 35 runs for every level of ability. More

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October/November 2015 PACIFIC COASTAL AIRLINES 15 VANCOUVER

Life’s never ‘bean’ better Photo by Bryan Pike Artisan roasters celebrate 25 years of brewing a better cup of coffee

By SEAN MCINTYRE When an aspiring upstart called Starbucks staked a claim on Robson Street, the company bought full-page newspaper ads t’s hard to imagine Vancouver as a coffee wasteland, but the to educate people on the subtleties of lattes, cappuccinos and cityscape was much different a quarter century ago, when Americanos. I“Lotusland” offered little more than bottomless diner refills Today’s customers can roll off requests for a “half-caf soy chai and church basement percolators. latte” before they’ve rubbed the sleep from their eyes or clicked through the morning’s headlines. Drop into any coffee shop in the city these days and you’ll be hard pressed to spot a spoonful of grandma’s favourite instant coffee crystals. But it was in the early days that Pete Boëda began something that placed him at the vanguard of Vancouver’s java awakening. The journey began in San Francisco. Boëda was at a conference representing his Calgary-based janitorial company. In between presentations about industrial-strength cleaning products and restoration techniques, he ducked out for a break. That’s when he caught a whiff unlike anything he had smelled before. Boëda popped inside a nearby coffee shop, and he never looked back. “The place was humming,” he says, recalling the shop’s energetic and eclectic patrons. Boëda visited the café everyday for the rest of his conference. Back in Calgary, thoughts of the San Francisco coffee scene stole his imagination. He spent much of the next decade intoxicated by the aroma of coffee roasting and drew inspiration from his trip. By the Pete Boëda and Barney McKenzie of Bean Around the World. late eighties, Boëda decided to get brewing.

16 Soar October/November 2015 He returned to San Francisco, where he By the time he had hung up the open sign, inhaled everything that artisan-roasting those corporate coffee advertisements had pioneer Alfred Pete knew about the business. grown commonplace. Awareness, interest and He relocated from Calgary to the West Coast competition were growing, but Boëda was and immediately began to scour the city for a confident he had unlocked the secret to make location to replicate the feeling he experienced his shop stand out. in California. Boëda settled in West Vancouver “People were starting to go, but nobody and opened Bean Around the World with was roasting,” he says. “I guess I was right on a second-hand roaster and a dozen sacks of the crest of the wave, because after three or coffee. four months, things really started to move.” Continued on page 19 “We just believed in our product and took the approach that if it feels right and feels good, you know what, let’s do it.”

Above: Bean Around the World at the University of British Columbia. Previous page: Steve Fraser, foreground, and Jeff Boeda roasting a fresh batch of beans.

October/November 2015 PACIFIC COASTAL AIRLINES ABCFPSoarMagazine_Outlines2.indd 1 11/13/2013 12:05:45 17 PM It’s free to download and features an interactive map to locate attractions and destinations throughout the Northern BC region. Find restaurants and accommodations on the go, or use it to plan your trip in advance. Stay connected through integrated social media and share experiences, photos and video of your trip. Now available at the App store for Apple devices and Google Play for Android.

To read the code you will need a code reader application. Get your free code reader at http://gettag.mobi Continued from page 17

Barney McKenzie was among those early About five years ago when lighter-roasted customers. He can still recall his first sip. coffees began to capture a larger market “I didn’t know anything about coffee, share, Boëda and McKenzie chose to stick nobody did, but I thought this was amazing,” with their strengths. They stayed loyal to he recalls. their old-time ways and the iconic, clunky As founder of Chez Barney, a popular roaster that has served them so well by Granville Street bakery, McKenzie had a producing distinctive roast and unrivalled keen food sense. He immediately began to blends. Coffees like Black Mountain, serve the coffee at his restaurant and, two Ethiopian Harrar, Sulawesi, Komodo Blend years later, joined Boëda to open a second and the classic Marine Roast are a testament Northern British Bean Around The World on West 10th. to big bold dark roasts. “We just believed in our product and took Twenty-five years in the trade has also Columbia has it all the approach that if it feels right and feels provided insight into every stage of the good, you know what, let’s do it,” McKenzie coffee business, from seed to cup. Whereas With 500,000 square kilometres of diverse many modern buyers order product through geography, northern British Columbia boasts says. “There was no coffee culture. We got recreation and wild-life viewing opportunities lucky, because we got aggressive.” the click of a mouse, Boëda and McKenzie year-round. More than 60 provincial, national The business partners have watched their frequently travel abroad to look for high- and marine parks, and wildlife refuges offer company match an unyielding thirst for all quality, fairly sourced coffee beans. access to unique ecosystems and priceless things Arabica. Earlier this year, the pair In Guatemala, Bean Around the World cultural heritage treasures. oversaw the grand opening of an outlet in constructed and funds a school on the farm Of course, the tone of any place is set by its White Rock, the 26th Bean Around the that supplies much of their beans. Boëda people. Fewer than 500,000 residents make and McKenzie have gotten to know the northern BC one of the least densely populated World location. Before the end of the 2015, places in North America. Those that do call it the business will have expanded to the farmers and learned the finer points of what home are as passionate about the recreational Greater Toronto Area, which represents the it takes to make good beans. opportunities in their backyard as they are business’ first foray outside of BC. Knowing where the coffee comes from is about its vibrant culture and colourful past - Despite the company’s impressive growth, as important as keeping track of where it’s and they are eager to share it with you. going. Experience the friendly hospitality of every bean served in a Bean Around the northern British Columbians, and you’ll be World shop still gets roasted by hand in an Walk into any Bean Around the World back again and again. old-school Probat coffee roaster. shop in Vancouver, Victoria, Sechelt, For more information, visit With experience in businesses that range Squamish or Vernon, and you’ll find a northernbctourism.com from cleaning to ranching, Boëda knows all fashionably rustic decor, a loyal community about the importance of ideas, execution and that alluring aroma that began the and timing. Bean Around the World hit all whole journey. three ingredients, but it’s a little something “If you’re in it for the money you’re not extra that’s helped the company keep pace going to do well,” Boëda says. “You’ve got to with corporate rivals over the years without have some passion, and you’ve got to love forsaking coffee culture’s bohemian roots. people.”

It’s free to download and features an interactive map to locate attractions and destinations throughout the Northern BC region. Find restaurants and accommodations on the go, or use it to plan your trip in advance. Stay connected through integrated social media and share experiences, photos and video of your trip. Now available at the App store for Apple devices and Google Play for Android.

To read the code you will need a code reader application. Get your free code reader at http://gettag.mobi

October/November 2015 PACIFIC COASTAL AIRLINES 19 datebook Campbell River Kootenay Boundary Festival of Films Regional Hospital Health Oct. 6, 20, Nov. 3, 10 & Foundation’s Snowflake Dec. 1 Gala Fall Film Festival 2015 Series Nov. 14 at the Tidemark Theatre. FMI: Urology Campaign fundraiser with tidemarktheatre.com dinner by Gabriella’s Restaurant, music, Comox Valley dancing, silent auction and champagne reception at Trail Memorial Centre Comox Valley Rotary Gymnasium. Tickets: $70/person. FMI: Beerfest kbrhhealthfoundation.ca Waterfront dining on beautiful Powell Lake… Oct. 2 Vancouver WHERE LOCALS BRING THEIR GUESTS Courtenay Rotary Club’s second beer festival — a fundraiser UBC Apple Festival 6233 Powell Place, Powell River, BC at the Native Sons Hall. FMI: Oct. 17-18 discovercomoxvalley.com Pub 604.483.3545 • Bistro 604.483.2001 Family celebration of apples, 11 a.m. www.shinglemill.ca • [email protected] to 4 p.m. Discover more about this Denman Island delicious fruit, and have a whole lot of “PROUD MEMBER OF THE POWELL RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE” Mushroom Festival fun doing it. Admission $4 (cash only; Oct. 24-25 children 12 and younger free). FMI: Learn all about the island’s botanicalgarden.ubc.ca mushrooms with experts. Vancouver Home + FMI: 250-335-0299 Design Show Haida Gwaii Oct 22-25 The ultimate authority on all things Located in the Love Haida Gwaii design, entertaining and home Trade Show improvement, featuring more Powell River Oct. 18 than 325 exhibitors offering expert Door prizes, special offers, table insight, innovation and inspiration draws and shopping opportunities at the Vancouver Conference Airport in Queen Charlotte. FMI: Centre, West Building. FMI: gohaidagwaii.ca/ vancouverhomeanddesignshow.com The Health Show 2015 Powell River Nov. 7-8 Health experts, information, speakers 604-485-4131 or 1-800-319-6919 Groundswell 2015 and demonstrations at the Vancouver Oct. 23-24 Conference Centre, East Building. FMI: 7516B Duncan St., Powell River, BC V8A 1W7 A conference to inspire creativity, thehealthshows.com ideas and relationships that advance the well-being of the Victoria community. FMI: rboogaards@ GoodLife Fitness Victoria Powell River’s cdpr.bc.ca Marathon 2015 TraiL Oct. 11 Thousands will be heading to Victoria Heritage BC for the annual Thanksgiving weekend Specialist! Prospector’s Dinner marathon, half-marathon, 8K and kids Waterfront...at BC’s best-kept secret Oct. 2 race. FMI: runvictoriamarathon.com Travel back in time to Rossland’s Democracy in Action gold rush and enjoy a Prospector’s Conference Dinner with local and provincial Oct. 27-29 heritage professionals and enthusiasts, plus music from Two-day conference for young people, the Golden City Fiddlers, aged 16 to 18, exploring the rights entertainment from the Boomtown and responsibilities of citizenship, Garter Girls and a gold-rush and encouraging participants inspired meal. Cost is $50/person. from all around BC to engage in 604.483.1633Switch Call (anytime) and Save up toFMI: $2,700 rosslandevents.ca civic opportunities in their home www.kathybowes.com communities. Contact local Rotary Get a $1,000 rebate Clubs for more information. when you switch your oil or propane heating Vancouver Island Aboriginal system to natural gas and Powell River Disability and Wellness install an ENERGY STAR® high-effieciency**heating CHAMBER OF Gathering system. COMMERCE Nov. 3-5 Tempco rebate of up to an 2015 Sharing information, raising awareness additional $1,700 Employer and creating new collaborations among aboriginal and non-aboriginal health Powell River’s HeatingTalk to our qualified and of the Year and disability sectors. FMI: bcands.bc.ca and Cooling Specialistsknowledgeable staff for all the details Williams Lake • High E ciency Gas Furnaces Museum of the Cariboo • Regency Gas Fireplaces Chilcotin Cowboy Christmas Nov. 21 • Tankless Hot Water Trade show from 10 to 4 p.m., concert • 24 hour Emergency Service, starting at 7 p.m., Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex. FMI: cowboy- Commercial & Residential museum.com Like us on 4493F MARINE AVENUE • 604.485.5352 • www.tempcohvac.com Facebook

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October/November 2015 PACIFIC COASTAL AIRLINES 21 Q&A Dave Maedel Executive director of the BC Wildfire Service

ritish Columbia recently came through one of the busiest wildfire seasons in recent memory and the BC BWildfire Service was on the front lines, battling the numerous blazes sparked by both natural and human causes. We chatted with Dave Maedel, executive director of the BC Wildfire Service, about his work with the service and what the future holds.

Q. What is the mandate of the BC Wildfire Q. What are the biggest challenges facing Service and what is your role? the Wildfire Service? What is happening to A. The BC Wildfire Service’s mandate is to deliver effective address these challenges? wildfire management and emergency response support on A. The BC Wildfire Service employs some of the world’s best behalf of the government of British Columbia to protect wildfire management professionals, both on the front lines life and values at risk and to encourage sustainable, healthy and in the administrative end of our operations. However, a and resilient ecosystems. As executive director, I lead the large portion of our full-time workforce is aging, and we’re organization and provide strategic direction to our staff, which starting to look at succession plans and some non-traditional numbers over 1,600 at full capacity (a mix of permanent and recruitment pools to bring new talent into our organization. seasonal staff). Moving forward, we are also concerned that we may see fire seasons that last longer and burn more intensely. We can’t Q. What drew you to this work? reliably forecast what future seasons will look like, but general A. This work was a natural outcome of my experience in the trends in climate change give us reason to prepare for busier emergency services sector. I worked with BC Ambulance seasons. We’re hoping for the best but planning for the worst. Service in several roles, including as an Advanced Life We are working to make sure our ability within the province Support Paramedic, Chief of the Air Evacuation Station in to fight fires remains at high levels and that we can access Victoria and eventually leading all ambulance services on resources from across Canada and elsewhere in the world, Vancouver Island. Subsequently I worked as the Chief Sheriff should we need to. Further, more and more development is for the Province of BC. I think those experiences made me occurring in the wildland-urban interface, where communities realize how much I like helping people and organizations and the wilderness meet. This increases the likelihood and perform in complex environments where the service we number of “interface” fires that threaten homes and structures. provide is so important and has a significant impact on the Individual homeowners and wider communities can take well-being of those affected. Leading the BC Wildfire Service simple steps to reduce the impact of wildfires on their homes, seemed like a fit for my skills and interests. and we’re ramping up efforts to raise this awareness.

Q. What has been the BC Wildfire Service’s Q. Anything else people should know about greatest achievement in recent years? the industry, or the Wildfire Service and A. We have been extremely successful in fighting wildfires in a its work here in British Columbia? challenging environment. On average, we respond to nearly A. The roots of the BC Wildfire Service stretch back to the early 2,000 wildfires per season, so protecting our province’s lives 1900s and the passion and commitment of the men and and values means containing as many of these wildfires as we women who serve this province is no less now than it was can while they are small. The BC Wildfire Service has been then. The BC Wildfire Service is a world leader in wildfire incredibly successful in doing this, achieving a 94 per cent suppression and I am proud to be a part of the team. With success rate in containing unwanted fires within 24 hours of factors such as climate change and expanding use of our detection. As well, we work hard to contain large fires and forests by people for recreational pursuits, we are expecting we keep the impact on communities to an absolute minimum. We may see an increasing number of wildfires in the future. The have also been very successful in maintaining a high standard public should take steps to ensure they are ready for a wildfire of safety within our workforce. should it happen to them. Learn more at BCWildfire.ca in the Prevention section.

22 Soar October/November 2015 Photo credit Kyle Breckenridge CaribooChilcotinCoast @CarChiCoa @CarChiCoa TheCCCTA

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