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MEET APACIFIC COASTALEMPLOYEE:THEAAROUND BCVancouver Islandtourism awardspresented— With files from Oak Bay News andwestcoasttraveller.comPosition: Customer Service Cargo AgentLocation: Bella BellaTime with PASCO: 5 monthsJob description: Checking-inpassengers, providing a safe, friendly,stress-free experience for our customers,and making sure all service disruptionsare resolved.Where were you born and where didyou grow up?I was born in Vancouver and raised inBella Bella.What path did you take to get to thisjob?I took a tourism and hospitality courseon Vancouver Island, and I saw this as astepping stone towards my career goal,which has always been to work for anairline.What do you like best about this job?I love this job because I get to meetnew people daily, and the people thatI work with all have a close bond. Theywere all very welcoming when I joinedthe team.Five winners have walked away with accolades from the 2022 Vancouver IslandTourism Conference Industry Awards atthe Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort inVictoria. Oak Bay Beach Hotel was namedemployer of the year, an award that recognizes businesses that exemplify bestpractices in gender equity, diversity,skills training and benefits. The hotelfocused on retention and development in the last year, identifying theneed to focus on the mental healthand wellness of team members, as wellas their growth, according to a newsrelease. The hotel addressed cost-ofliving realities while creating a cultureof balance and growth with employees,and achieved the highest employee engagement scores it has ever recorded. Malahat SkyWalk was named people’schoice winner, as voted by conferenceattendees. Participants described thenew Malahat SkyWalk as thoughtful,well-designed and accessible. Its partnership with Malahat Nation, mindfultravel aspects and forest history andeducation set the SkyWalk above others. Victoria Airport Authority earned thesocial responsibility award, for businesses that contribute to a vibrantcommunity and demonstrate a beliefin giving back. This award highlightsthe teams that make an impact oncommunity, environment, thelocal culture and on business. InJanuary 2021, Victoria International Airport (YYJ) received the RickHansen Foundation’s AccessibilityCertified Gold rating, the secondairport in BC and fourth in Canadato achieve the status. In addition, YYJ implemented a curbsideassistance program, wherein itspassenger engagement and safetyofficers help people with disabilities move through the terminal. Josh Brown of Black RockOceanfront Resort in Uclueletwas named employee of the year.The award recognizes a frontline tourism employee who hasdemonstrated exemplary workperformance, is valued for outstanding service and seen as a keycontributor to team success.Brown has worked at the resort formore than 10 years, starting as ahouseperson and moving his wayup to duty manager. Dubbed a“Josh of all trades,” he’s the champion of the Green Team, workinghard to implement an improvedrecycling process. He truly wantsguests to have a memorableexperience at the resort and issomeone the team knows theycan count on. Kaatza Station Museum in LakeCowichan was named resilientbusiness of the year, which celebrates industry members whoparticipated in the VancouverIsland Coastal Tourism ResiliencyProgram and demonstrated a keenability to innovate, adapt and buildduring the COVID-19 pandemic.Faro at theOak BayBeach Hotel,which wasrecentlyhonouredas Employerof the Yearat the .What are your hobbies outside of thejob?I spend a lot of time with my familyand close friends, and I like to travelduring my time off.What is your favourite thing to do inyour city?I like spending time out on the boatexploring parts of the territory that Ihaven’t seen yet.May/June 2022 8 pacificcoastal.comWaivin FlagsTAXI250-230-8294 (TAXI)SERVICING THE TRI-PORT AREA250-287-8294 (TAXI)SERVICING THE CENTRAL ISLANDLarge passenger vehicles including2-40 passenger vehicleswaivinflagstaxi.comWheelchair Accessible now availableMay/June 2022 9 pacificcoastal.com

AROUND BCLIFE ISStep up for theStampedeBetter HereCHOOSE LONG TRAILSOVER LONG COMMUTESWorkPursue your business dreams or embrace remote working. WilliamsLake has a great mix of career options such as major industry,government, and health and education services. We have a thrivingsmall business sector and are uniquely positioned for access toglobal markets. Our good wireless connectivity makes Williams Lakean excellent place for remote working, as well. Skilled workers andprofessional services are in demand in the Cariboo.LiveWilliams Lake offers affordable housing in a variety of ruraland urban settings, all within minutes of our vibrant andbustling downtown. There you will find shopping, dining andservices. Access to a full range of health services, postsecondary education and an engaged school district will helpmake the transition to our welcoming community easy. Ourworld-class recreation complex has something for everyone,as well as a rich arts and culture community with festivals andactivities throughout the year.Eco Tours BC photoRecreateWith the largest mountain bike trail network in BC, the 300plus kilometres of trails outside your door will keep you busyin our four-season playground. Whether it is golfing, fishing,hiking, indoor or outdoor sports, cross-country or downhillskiing, there is no better place than Williams Lake torecreate. Within city limits, our nature reserve is a birdwatching paradise with annual migrations that attract visitorsfrom around the y/June 2022 10John Wellburn photo@CityWL pacificcoastal.com@cityofwilliamslakeAfter having to cancel the “worldfamous” Williams Lake Stampede thelast two years, organizers are thrilled toforge ahead with the 2022 event.And what a way to spend CanadaDay it will be! Every year, over the July1 long weekend, Williams Lake rolls outthe welcome mat!Visitors come from far and wideto enjoy several days of action at thestampede, which is proud to host topinternational cowboys and competitors from Canada and the UnitedStates.The 2022 Williams Lake Stampederuns Thursday, June 30 to Sunday, July3. The first three performances willsee the best competitors from theCanadian Professional Rodeo Association, the Professional Rodeo CowboysAssociation and the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association chasing theprize money in seven major rodeoevents (bareback, steer wrestling,saddle bronc, bull riding, tie-down roping, team ropingand ladies barrel race).As well, there will be the minor events—novice saddlebronc and junior steer riding—and new this year is a second ladies event, breakaway roping.Other highlights include the Bronc Buster Trade Fair,unique “branded” merchandise and the always-popularLet’r Buck Saloon.Williams Lake is located in the heart of British Columbia’s interior. It is the centre of a large service and tradingarea for a population of more than 50,000 people. It is theshopping and business centre for many in the ranchingindustry whose land and holdings spread in all directionsfrom Williams Lake.The rodeo is held on the same site as the first annualproduction back in 1920 (the rodeo took a several-yearhiatus during the First and Second World Wars, as well asduring the last two years due to the pandemic).In the early days, the cowboys were mostly local boysand girls who wanted a place to show off their cowboytalents. But today’s rodeo is a big professional show withcowboys coming from all over to compete. The originalconcept is maintained by a locals-only competition calledthe Ranch Challenge, where cowboys from area ranchescompete against each other for the year's bragging rightsas “the best cowboys.”May/June 2022 94TH WORLD FAMOUS WILLIAMS LAKESTAMPEDEJUNE 30th to July 3rd 2022Thursday, Friday and saTurdayCPra Pro rodeoPerFormanCes eaCh daysundayBrC BuLL ridingPerFormanCeTickeTs now available online.WaTCh WeBsiTe and soCiaL mediaFor more kestampede.comWWW.WILLIAMSLAkESTAMPEDE.COM11 pacificcoastal.com

West coast wildCAMPBELL RIVERTour like a localin beautifulCampbell RiverBy Kaylee WallisPhotos by Tyler Cave Productions/Destination Campbell RiverWwww.seabreezeresortbc.caFeatures waterfront cottagesand a campground. Enjoy theclear waters and sandy beachesof Lang Bay. Locally there isgolf, access to the SunshineCoast trail, birdwatching, lakes,fishing, paddle board, divingand kayaking.elcome to CampbellRiver, your gateway tonature. Here, there areno borders betweencity and nature. Campbell River islocated in the heart of the DiscoveryPassage, a small city nestled in nature,surrounded by the wild, with all thecomforts of home.Pacific Coastal Airline's destination of Campbell River, orWiwek’am, is located on the eastcoast of Vancouver Island withinthe ancestral territory of the WeWai Kai and Wei Wai Kum FirstNations, in the northern Salish Sea.Sitting on the 50th parallel, it’s acity nestled in nature, surroundedby five provincial parks (includingBC’s first, Strathcona) and front-rowaccess to the Discovery Passage.This region is full of diverse outdoor experiences for all interestsand abilities. If you’re a buddingmarine biologist, a lover of forests,a curious explorer of heritage andculture, an artist looking for inspiration or someone who simply wantsto visit one of the most beautiful,uncrowded places on VancouverIsland, Campbell River is the destination of choice.Local operators care about theirproducts, experiences and theirhometown, offering world-classtourism, delivered in an authentically Campbell River way. Here aresome of the top experiences youdon’t want to miss:Photo by Tyler Cave ProductionsMay/June 2022 12 pacificcoastal.comMay/June 2022 13 pacificcoastal.com

cabins of Oyster Bay Resorts. It’s acharming property that offers privacy, comfort and spectacular oceanviews. Dolphins Resort features 13west-coast-style cabins, many withpersonal hot tubs and wood-burningfireplaces, and an upscale PacificNorthwest-inspired restaurant.Local operators care abouttheir products, experiencesand their hometown,offering world-class tourism,delivered in an authenticallyCampbell River way.FIND THE HIDDEN GEMSEXPLORE THE WATERThere’s no shortage of access tothe bodies of water in Campbell River. Whether it’s exploring the coastalwaters of the Discovery Passage, thepowerful namesake river, the manylakes or even local waterfalls, you canpick and choose the type of wateradventure you seek.For the marine lover, CampbellRiver and the surrounding DiscoveryIslands offer a hub of opportunitiesfor whale-watching, bear-viewingand diving enthusiasts. There is awide selection of tours available fromthe sea to the sky. View everythingfrom whales, dolphins and sea lionsto bears, elk and eagles through thesafe guidance of an experienced andknowledgeable tour operator.Marine tours are available year-round,and grizzly-bear viewing is best betweenmid-August and mid-October. To avoidthe disappointment of missing out onbear tours, it’s highly recommended tobook your tour well in advance (bookingsare available now).Campbell River is the starting point toexplore the spectacular Discovery Islandsarchipelago. Quadra Island, Cortes Islandand the outer Discovery Islands offer amix of beaches, coves, rocky headlandsand countless areas that are best experienced from the seat of a kayak or canoe.If you’re a seasoned kayaker or canoeenthusiast there are plenty of areas inwhich you can self-guide with easeor if you’re a beginner there areseveral kayaking outfitters in the areathat make it easy for you to exploreand get out on the water with a professional and experienced guide.MUST-DO HIKESHiking in the Campbell Riverregion is sure to delight hikers ofall ages and skill levels. Exploreold growth forests in the Elk FallsProvincial Park, take a peaceful walkalong the ocean, traverse the ruggedbeaches of Quadra and Cortes Islandand take in panoramic mountainviews in Strathcona Provincial Park.Photo by Bluetree PhotographyMay/June 2022 14 pacificcoastal.comCampbell River is passionateabout preserving these amazingnatural places, so hikers are asked topractice leave-no-trace principles,pack out what you pack in and foryour own safety and the preservation of the trails, obey posted signsand keep to designated trails.Here are some top hikes in theregion: Elk Falls: Lose yourself in natureand the overwhelming power ofthe Elk Falls from a suspensionbridge above (a two-kilometrehike, return). After the waterfall,wander the Old Growth Loop trailto observe massive Douglas firand cedar trees, or the RiversideLoop trail (four kilometres return)to view Moose Falls, Deer Fallsand the Dolphin Pool. Ripple Rock: This popular hikingtrail overlooks the site of thefamous 1958 Ripple Rock blast,which was the largest non-nuclear explosion in the world at thetime. While the detonation wasdangerous, the trail is the opposite. At about four kilometres longin each direction, this moderatehiking trail provides scenic viewpoints overlooking Menzies Bayand the Seymour Narrows. Strathcona Park: Strathcona Provincial Park is the oldest provincial park in British Columbia andthe largest provincial park on Vancouver Island. Founded in 1911,this awe-inspiring 250,000-hectare park stretches from theglaciers of Forbidden Plateau upto the northern peaks beyondButtle Lake, offering up recreational activities for all tastes andabilities. This majestic wilderness canchallenge the most extreme outdoorenthusiast, or delight a senior withtheir grandchildren, exploring natureas they discover the park together.UNIQUE ACCOMMODATIONSLooking for a place to rest, relax andrejuvenate? Accommodations in Campbell River and region provide somethingunique for everyone.The central north island has a treasuretrove of resorts, cottages, hotels, B&Bsand vacation rental homes that offerstunning views and easy access to thecraggy shorelines and sandy beachesthat dominate the landscape. Fromhigh-end luxury to low-key and relaxingaccommodations, there’s something foreveryone.For those looking for a truly coastalexperience, there are several seasideaccommodations to choose from. Onthe southern side, in between CampbellRiver and Comox, are the cosy A-frameMay/June 2022 15 pacificcoastal.comDespite its growth and change,Campbell River remains a small townat heart. Dining options are plentifulin Campbell River. Whether it’s fishand chips served dockside in a marina or surf and turf platters in a comfortable pub or restaurant, the localfood scene offers visitors a chance tohang out with locals and savour thetastes of the region. Trendy eateriesprovide a great atmosphere for socialinteraction, while fine dining spotsoffer the best in west coast cuisine.A must-visit when exploring thefood scene is Beach Fire Brewing forlocal brews and local eats! The menuhere features local seasonal ingredients for a truly authentic and localexperience. When it’s time to takea break from the day’s adventure,Campbell River’s café scene offers avariety of options to suit everyone.Choose from a cosy coastal cafelike FoggDukkers, where you canenjoy your cup of coffee right onthe ocean, or a charming in-towncafe like Island Grind, convenientlylocated by the popular walking trailsof the Beaver Lodge Lands.

Un -ordinary your dayRICHMONDUN-ORDINARYYOUr DAYƛəmataxʷ, Campbell River, isnestled within the territory of theLiǧʷiłdax̌ʷ peoples; the WeWaiKai,WeiWaiKum, and Kwikiah Nations;here there are no borders betweencity and nature. ƛəmataxʷ, CampbellRiver is located in the heart of theDiscovery Passage, a small citynestled in nature, surrounded by thewild, with all the comforts of home.Explore your perfect itinerary andget inspired to plan your stay, fromwhere to grab your morning coffeeto the best places to explore thegreat outdoors and discover ourcommunity culture.Visitcampbellriver.travelOr call 1.877.286.57057am10amStart your dayin comfortExplore the greatoutdoors3PM7PmWater Sky Garden by Janet Echelman at Richmond Olympic Oval. Photos courtesy Tourism Richmond.Outdoor artPublic artabounds in thiscoastal cityBy Lauren KramerDiscover thecommunity cultureShare your storiesof the wildFollow us for travel RiverMay/June 2022 16 pacificcoastal.comIf you love art, don’t think you needto visit a gallery to enjoy it next timeyou’re in Richmond. The city’s deepappreciation for art is reflected inthe many different pieces of artwork scattered throughout its neighbourhoods andpublic spaces.The artwork exists not just tobeautify and enrich those spaces, butto tell the story of Richmond throughmetaphors of steel, bronze and othermediums, to address relevant themesand to provoke thoughtful conversation.Some pieces are entirely un-missable while others can be forgotten inthe rush and bustle of daily life. Hereare a few worth visiting, and the stories they tell about the environmentthey beautify.May/June 2022 17 pacificcoastal.comRichmond Olympic OvalWhen the Richmond Olympic Ovalwas built for the 2010 Winter Olympics,art was a key component of its beautyand you don’t have to look far to see it.The entrance to the Oval is markedby a series of massive red, netted “skylanterns” that extend over a small pondtraversed by pedestrian pathways. Thisis the Water Sky Garden by Janet Echelman, a piece of art inspired by the city’smix of cultures. The netted lanternshearken back to the fishing nets usedby the native Musqueam Indian Band,

which fishes thisbend in the riverto this day.The woodenboardwalk overthe pond followsa curving pathreflective of theDragon Dance atChinese festivals,paying tribute toRichmond’s manyAsian immigrants.And the structureas a whole, illuminated at night, Hupakwanum: The Chief’s Treasure Box byNuu-chah-nulth artists.situates art in thesky, creating a visual experience that combines water, sky,light and air.The city’s First Nations heritage is also reflected in Hupakwanum: The Chief’s Treasure Box, a 2009 installation ofwood, glass and LED lights made by Nuu-chah-nulth artists. The obelisk represents bentwood boxes (traditionallyused to store food, clothing and household and ceremonial items), their glass etched with creatures of the sea,land and sky. In the Chief’s Treasure Box, the artists hopedto share their stories and demonstrate the foundations oftheir culture.A more recent addition to the Oval is Water Off a Duck’sBack by renowned Canadian novelist, designer and visualartist Douglas Coupland. This artwork was added in 2020to celebrate the many species of birdlife that visit the city.The piece includes a fountain of aluminum panels andstainless steel, featuring a fun, eye-catching quartet ofwaterfowl drakes.LoveITALIAN FOOD?“Come Twirl with uItalian family style diningfeaturing our traditionalColander SpecialPasta and MoreShopping at Waneta Plaza?Try the Colander ExpressRiver Bellebanquet facilityTheLunch: 11:30 am - 2pm WeekdaysDinner: 4:30 - 8:30pm DailyFor Reservations 250-364-18161475 Cedar Avenue, Trail, BCModel A Inn in Cranbrook, is situated on the Stripand convenient to Tamarack Centre andCranbrook Golf and Country Club.The artwork exists not just to beautify andenrich those spaces, but to tell the story ofRichmond through metaphors of steel, bronzeand other mediums, to address relevant themesand to provoke thoughtful conversation.Minoru Horse by Sergei Traschenko. Photo by Andrea Sirois.Richmond city centreAt the city’s centre, look out for Minoru Horse, a striking,life-size bronze sculpture located just outside Richmond PublicLibrary. This is a monument to a thoroughbred named Minoru,a horse owned by King Edward VII and after which Richmond’s1907 Minoru horse-racing track was named (now the site ofMinoru Park).The word “minoru” means “the enlightened one” and symbolizes the spirit of Richmond’s early pioneers who helpedestablish the thoroughbred racing industry in the early 1900s.Today the site of the old horse-racing track is a well-used running track, but Sergei Traschenko’s bronze sculpture invites apause to reflect on Richmond’s history.Nearby, the Fraser Giant is a 20-foot-long, stainless steel sturgeon that reflects the region’s maritime heritage on the FraserRiver. Located outside City Hall, it symbolizes longevity, resilienceand hope.CRANBROOK, B.C.Spacious rooms & suites1908 1908CranbrookStreetNorth,Cranbrook StreetN 0Water Off A Duck

of the publisher or Pacific Coastal Airlines. The contents of SOAR magazine are protected by copyright, including the designed advertising. Reproduction is prohibited without written consent of the publisher. Black Press Media Brand Assets Guide INTERNAL DOCUMENT Version 1.0 - May 2018